Each week the Sheldon staff reviews one of our Head Start Policies & Procedures and felt it was important that families stay up to date on these as well. This quarter our focus is on Mental Health, Child Development & Education, Disability. If you ever have any questions regarding our policies and procedures, please reach out!
Promoting Physical Development
POLICY:
Staff will promote the physical development of all children, including participation of children with disabilities, as a part of promoting school readiness. This policy relates to Head Start Performance Standards 45 CFR Part 1302.30, 1302.31
PROCEDURE:
1. Provide sufficient time and space, both indoors and outdoors, for active play and large motor development such as jumping, running, balancing, climbing, and riding toys (20-30 minutes AM and 20-30 minutes PM).
2. Provide a sufficient quantity and variety of equipment and materials to meet individual needs.
3. Provide adult guidance and support during activities and use of materials and equipment.
4. Provide creative movement activities using obstacle courses, activity songs, etc. Provide fine motor activities such as stacking, stringing beads, pegboards, puzzles, lacing cards, and woodworking.
5. Utilize child’s ongoing assessment information to assist in planning and accessing appropriate activities and skill development in lesson plans.
6. Integrate development of social skills by including non-competitive large and small group games.
7. All equipment must meet safety standards.
8. The outdoor play area should meet the following criteria to the extent possible:
- There are a variety of activity choices (children can ride, construct, swing, climb, read, pour, dig, kick, throw, pretend, paint, balance, cooperate, and play games).
- There are play opportunities and equipment for children with differing abilities.
- There are grassy, open areas.
- There is a smooth surface for equipment with wheels.
- There is enough room for children to move freely without getting in other people’s way.
- There are a variety of hard and soft textures and surfaces (grass, sand, paved areas, wood chips).
- There are shady areas which include a place for activities such as drawing or working a puzzle.
- There is a storage area to hold equipment and toys.
- There should be a minimum of 75 sq ft of space per child.
