ABSTRACT
To provide an overview of early physical development and the links with brain development
To outline the differences between gross motor skills, locomotor skills and fine motor skills
To consider the issues affecting physical development, such as hereditary factors, poverty, nutrition, obesity, and social and emotional development
To provide an understanding of the significance of the learning environment on physical development
To explore the potential of outdoor play
To provide an overview of physical education in school
Observation as a research tool Observation is an extremely useful research tool (or research method). It can help us to understand processes, events and development and it can support development, learning and professional practice. Observation is more than just looking. It involves:
watching closely, for example as children are involved in a task;
listening;
discussing or questioning;
analysing work/answers.
