Child health experts are raising alarms: many Australian children are falling behind in basic motor and balance skills compared with previous years. The Australian Early Development Census revealed that only 52.9% of children are on track across five developmental domains, marking a decline since 2021.
These domains include physical health & well-being, social competence, emotional maturity, language & cognitive skills, and communication & general knowledge.
Why It Matters for Educators
- School readiness: Motor skills underpin classroom participation and playground safety.
- Confidence & wellbeing: Children with poor balance or coordination often withdraw socially.
- Long-term outcomes: Early delays can compound into academic and health challenges.
Strategies for Early Childhood
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Movement-rich routines: Build hopping, skipping, and balance games into circle time.
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Play-based learning: Use obstacle courses, climbing frames, and ball play to strengthen gross motor skills.
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Fine motor stations: Threading beads, playdough sculpting, and cutting shapes.
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Inclusive activities: Adapt games so all children, including those with delays, can participate.
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Cross-curricular integration: Act out stories in literacy or use jump counting in numeracy.
EDC 2024 Snapshot
| Domain | On Track % | Trend vs. 2021 | Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical health & wellbeing | 52.9% | Decline | More movement breaks needed |
| Social competence | 52.9% | Decline | Structured peer play activities |
| Emotional maturity | 52.9% | Decline | Focus on resilience-building |
| Language & cognitive skills | 52.9% | Decline | Integrate physical + cognitive tasks |
| Communication & general knowledge | 52.9% | Decline | Encourage expressive play |
Practical Tips for Educators
- Observe and record motor skill progress alongside literacy and numeracy.
- Partner with families to share home activities like skipping, bike riding, or ball games.
- Encourage participation in local sports clubs or dance groups.
- Reduce reliance on screen-based activities during recess and after school.
- Upskill staff in motor development awareness and interventions.
Educators are on the frontline of reversing this decline. By embedding movement-rich, play-based learning into daily routines and strengthening partnerships with families, schools can help children build the physical foundation needed for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
Further Reading
Visual Motor Integration For Children
Fine Motor Development for School Age
50 Fine Motor Skills Activities
Developing Fine Motor Skills In Children