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The Importance of Balance
July 2, 2019
Written By: Barbara Eaton (Academic Development Co-ordinator of ADvTECH Pre-Primary Schools)
Balance is the ability to maintain the body’s centre of mass over its base of support. A properly functioning balance system allows humans to see clearly while moving, identify location with respect to gravity, determine direction and speed of movement, and make automatic postural adjustments to maintain posture and stability in various conditions and activities.
Balance is achieved and maintained by a complex set of sensorimotor control systems that include sensory input from vision (sight), proprioception (touch), and the vestibular system (motion, equilibrium, spatial orientation); integration of that sensory input; and motor output to the eye and body muscles.
Balance begins in infancy as babies begin to hold their heads up and raise themselves up on their arms. It develops steadily with opportunities to run, jump, climb, balance and play. Development stabilises at approximately 10-11 years. There are balance milestones to achieve by certain ages. Eg, a child should be able to balance on one leg for more than 12 seconds by the age of 5.5 years. At pre-school girls appear to have slightly better balance than boys.
Balance is basic to physical fitness as it is the ability to maintain and control body position while stationary or moving.
Good balance and core muscle tone enables a child to sit at a desk for academic tasks and to persevere for reasonable periods of time. This is called static balance. Without it the child will fidget, rock on the chair and need frequent excuses to stand and walk.
Dynamic balance is the ability to maintain postural control during movement so is important to all sport and dance.
Giving children lots of time to play freely outside, to climb, swing and roll, is essential for developing good balance and posture.
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Mindfulness is a great tool to help heal your mind and body. Read more about how to practice mindfulness here.
STEM education is the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Learn more here.
In the dynamic realm of education, technology plays a pivotal role in reshaping instructional methods and the learning experience at Gaborone International School (GIS ). From early childhood to higher education, technology permeates every facet of modern learning and unlocks diverse possibilities. 1. Early Computing Exposure: In the past, computer literacy was delayed to later schooling stages, but GIS prioritises early technology exposure. Even our youngest learners engage with educational software , mastering fundamental computer skills before literacy in traditional subjects. This early exposure not only equips them with essential tools but also cultivates comfort and adaptability in the digital era. 2. Online Research Integration: The internet allows GIS students to explore diverse subjects and access academic resources beyond textbooks. Platforms like Google Scholar empower students to enhance comprehension and critical thinking skills. 3. Educational Video Utilization: Platforms like YouTube serve as invaluable educational resources, offering diverse content across subjects. Supervised video viewing supplements classroom instruction, catering to various learning styles. For example, science teachers use YouTube to demonstrate chemical reactions, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation among students. 4. Robotics Integration: GIS' Science and Technology lab transcends theoretical learning, incorporating robotics for practical application. Students engage in experiential learning by building and programming robots, honing problem-solving skills across physics, engineering, and programming. 5. Enhanced Parental Engagement: Technology bridges school and home , facilitating smooth communication and parental involvement. Online platforms enable virtual school meetings, real-time access to academic reports, and effortless communication with teachers, strengthening the home-school partnership. In conclusion, technology has become integral at GIS , reshaping education and enriching the learning experience. From early childhood to advanced learning, technology empowers students to thrive in the digital age and beyond.
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