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Motor Planning

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Summary

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Motor planning is when your brain helps you figure out how to move your body to do things, like catching a ball or reaching for a glass. It helps you move smoothly and efficiently and is important for everyday activities.

Frequently Asked Question

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What are the signs of difficulties with motor planning?

Signs of difficulties with motor planning can include poor coordination, clumsiness, trouble with balance, and difficulties with completing tasks smoothly. People who struggle with motor planning may also experience difficulties with fine motor tasks, such as writing or buttoning a shirt.

How can motor planning be improved?

Motor planning can be improved through exercises and activities that challenge the individual to coordinate their movements, such as stacking blocks, playing with toys that require fine motor skills, and practicing physical activities like dance or sports. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other therapeutic intervention can also be helpful in improving motor planning skills.

How does motor planning develop in children?

Motor planning develops in children as they grow and mature, beginning in infancy as they learn to reach, grasp, and manipulate objects. As children grow, their motor planning skills improve and they are able to coordinate movements more smoothly and efficiently. This process is facilitated by a combination of genetic factors, early experiences, and exposure to new movements and tasks.

Are there therapies or interventions available for individuals with motor planning difficulties?

Occupational therapy is often recommended for individuals with motor planning issues, as it can provide specialized exercises and strategies to improve coordination and motor skills.

Scientific Definition

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Motor planning is the process that helps us plan and execute physical movements. It’s like a roadmap for our body that allows us to perform tasks smoothly and efficiently. Motor planning is important for everyday activities like reaching for a glass, tying your shoes, and even walking. People who have trouble with motor planning may have difficulties with coordination, balance, and completing tasks smoothly. It helps us to use our bodies in the right way to do things, making it an important part of our daily life.

Video Explanation

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Real World Example of Motor Planning

Meet Susie, a cheerful and imaginative 6-year-old. See how motor planning plays out in her day:

  • Morning routine: As Susie wakes up, she effortlessly stretches and reaches for her favorite stuffed toy, thanks to her well-developed motor planning skills.
  • Breakfast time: Pouring milk into her cereal bowl is a breeze for Susie, as her brain seamlessly coordinates the movements required.
  • Playtime: Susie joins her friends for a game of catch. She quickly positions herself, predicting the ball’s trajectory and making successful catches with ease.
  • Art adventure: Drawing and coloring come naturally to Susie. Her hand movements flow smoothly, bringing her creative ideas to life.
  • Lunch prep: Susie helps her mom make sandwiches, confidently spreading peanut butter and jelly without making a mess.
  • Outdoor fun: Riding her bike is a joy for Susie, showcasing her excellent balance and coordination skills.
  • Evening routine: As bedtime approaches, Susie follows her routine independently, brushing her teeth and getting ready for bed with little effort.

Susie’s remarkable motor planning abilities enable her to embrace each day with confidence and joy, tackling various activities with ease and enthusiasm.

How Does Motor Planning Work?

Motor planning is the behind-the-scenes process that allows our bodies to perform physical movements smoothly and effortlessly. Here’s a quick rundown of how it works and some real-life examples:

  • Brain coordination: Motor planning involves the brain coordinating with muscles to execute movements accurately.
  • Sequencing: The brain organizes and sequences the steps needed to complete a task.
  • Automaticity: With practice, motor planning becomes automatic, requiring less conscious effort.
  • Catching a ball: The brain plans the arm and hand movements needed to catch the ball without us even thinking about it.
  • Tying shoelaces: Motor planning helps the brain guide the hands through the precise steps of tying shoelaces.
  • Drinking from a glass: The brain coordinates arm and hand movements to reach and grasp the glass.
  • Walking: Walking involves complex motor planning to coordinate leg movements, balance, and body alignment.

Motor planning is essential for everyday activities, making it crucial to support children’s development through engaging and playful exercises that enhance these skills.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 13, 2023. It was updated on Nov. 6, 2023.