Physical development in EYFS

Physical development in the Early Years covers mainly the boys’ development of fine and gross motor skills, not only running, jumping, chasing and balancing, but also using scissors, threading and learning to hold a pencil correctly.

Boys also learn about health, including knowing that they need to eat a variety of food to keep fit and understanding the effect of exercise on their body. They begin to look after themselves by independently attending to their toileting needs, dress and undress themselves and by beginning to understand the need for safety.

In order to practice these skills, the boys take part in PE lessons, use the outside area to build, climb and balance as well as run and chase at playtimes. All of these focus on keeping fit and developing coordination. They also undertake activities such as threading, cutting, doing jigsaws and using tweezers. Boys are encouraged to be independent by stowing away their possessions in the mornings, choosing an apron to wear for messy activities and collecting their own lunch.