Brain Gym and Perceptual Motor Programmes

Moving is an essential part of a preschooler’s day and has direct benefits helping children establish foundation skills for learning. Both Brain Gym and Perceptual Motor Programmes (PMP) are an important aspect of movement and the growing of young children’s brains.

Brain Gym and PMP are incorporated into the daily programme of the centre. Both these programmes engage children in stimulated activities to improve learning. These exercises aid in children to concentrate better and improve their learning abilities.

Brain Gym

Brain Gym is made up of simple and enjoyable movements and activities that enhance experiences of whole brain learning. Brain Gym is used with all children across the centre.

Perceptual Motor Programme (PMP)

PMP can be found taught in many primary schools where this aspect of physical education should comprise of 25% of the total programme so it’s vital for our older age group of children to be involved with this programme. The perceptual motor process is the accurate processing of information that comes to the individual through the sense organs. Perception is the inner core between a child and its environment. It enables the child to interpret objects and assists learning capabilities.

PMP is made up of movement skills for physical competence, enjoyment, a sense of self-worth, and an active lifestyle. All programmes are based on the developmental levels of the child. Perceptual Motor Programmes are used with children aged 3 years and over.

International research proves that these programmes enhance rhythm, language development, co-ordination, motor skills and the ability to learn. Including brain gym principles helps co-ordinate children’s right and left brain hemispheres so all their potential can be tapped. And specific movements like spinning help boost the vestibular system, which in turn promotes children’s balance, posture, spatial perception, confidence, visual skills and ability to focus attention.