Harvard Growth Program - Early Childhood Multiple Intelligence Training and Development (2-3 years old)

Author: Wang Zhenhua
Writer:
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: Methods for Cultivating Motor Intelligence in 2-3-Year-Old Children
Exercising children effectively and systematically from a young age is very necessary for their physical and intellectual development. Through movement, children can express their emotions and ideas, test their physical movements and motor skills, etc. To ensure the healthy development of their motor intelligence, we attempt to introduce some feasible and practical methods to parents, allowing them to choose suitable approaches based on their own circumstances. These activities should bring joy to children, helping them grow lively and healthy.
Toys and props play a significant role in training children's motor intelligence. Parents should skillfully use toys and props to create activities that are suitable for training 2-3-year-old children. Below, we introduce some games for parents to reference.
Playing with Balls
Ball toys are an important choice for developing children's motor intelligence. Through exercises like rolling, catching, and kicking balls, children can strengthen their gross motor skills, improve their physical coordination, and enhance their body control. Methods:
★ On a spacious outdoor field, provide a child with a rubber band about 1 meter long, two wooden stakes for tying the rubber band, and a small ball.
★ Roll the ball. Make the rubber band a goalpost, with a height that allows the ball to pass through. The parent and child sit on opposite sides of the rubber band, about 3 meters apart, and pass the ball back and forth through the goalpost.
★ Throw the ball. The parent interlocks their hands, extends their arms forward to form a hollow circle, and acts as a "basketball hoop." The child throws the ball into the "hoop." Initially, keep the hoop low to make it easier for the child to score, then gradually raise it.
★ Toss and catch the ball. The parent and child stand close to each other, facing each other. The child tosses the ball, and the parent catches it. Once the child becomes skilled, they can toss and catch the ball with the parent, gradually increasing the distance to add difficulty.
Little Archer
Methods:
★ Choose a slightly spacious and flat outdoor area and provide the child with a few empty beverage cans.
★ Draw a horizontal line 1.5 meters away from the child to serve as the goal.
★ Place several empty beverage cans in front of the child and have them kick the cans into the goal.
During the activity, parents should correct the child's posture and encourage them promptly.
Grasping a Rope
A rope can also be an excellent prop for training children's motor intelligence. Letting children grasp a swinging rope can develop their eye-hand coordination, agility, and body control through actions like chasing, grasping, and holding. Methods:
★ Prepare a brightly colored rope, about 2 feet long.
★ The adult swings the rope like a snake in the air, ensuring the height is suitable for the child to reach the rope's end and grasp it. Encourage the child to catch the swaying rope tail without letting it run away.
During the activity, let the child experience success and joy.
★ When the adult moves the rope on the ground like a snake, the child should step on it to prevent it from escaping. However, the adult must be careful with the intensity of the swing—avoid being too forceful and always prioritize safety.
P24-25