The social climate which adults create for children is very important. When parents and teachers criticize a child’s performance, require them to master a specific skill, or create an unfavorable competitive environment, they risk a deterioration of the child’s self-esteem and a reduction in speed of motor development. It is important to focus on creating positive experiences through games, rather than looking for the perfect movement or the “right” technique at every stage of the child’s development.

The techniques and games listed below can be applied by kindergarten teachers to encourage fine and gross motor development in preschool children.