Introduce
Early intervention in physical development refers to providing timely support to children showing developmental delays or risks in their motor skills, coordination, strength, and overall physical health. These interventions focus on identifying and addressing concerns early to support children to reach critical developmental milestones and prevent long-term challenges. The risk of delayed development is reduced through optimising intervention and support at the earliest opportunity.
Develop
Early intervention can include both universal and targeted support.
Universal Approaches
These are strategies that apply to all children in early years settings, regardless of specific developmental concerns. Universal approaches aim to promote physical development for every child, fostering motor skills, co-ordination, and overall physical health.
- Play-based learning: All children benefit from environments promoting play-based physical activities, such as climbing, running, and using fine motor skills like grasping.
- Inclusive settings and spaces: A universally inclusive setting incorporates activities that promote and encourage physical development for all (e.g., structured physical games, dance, or obstacle courses).
- Practitioner training: Practitioners are trained in recognising physical development milestones and implementing activities that promote healthy physical development for all children. Training allows for increased confidence to refer to specialist services as soon as problems emerge.
Targeted Support
Targeted interventions address the needs of those who require additional support and focus on children having or being at risk of delays or disabilities. This often involves specialist services such as physiotherapy or occupational therapy tailored to individual needs.
- Individualised support: Children who may show delays in motor skills or have conditions like cerebral palsy, developmental delay, or other physical impairments receive targeted interventions. These might include therapy exercises, specialised equipment, or one-on-one support from professionals like physiotherapists.
- Parent and family involvement: In targeted approaches, families play a crucial role in reinforcing strategies at home. Parents may receive guidance on exercises or activities that can support their child’s physical development.
- Monitoring and assessment: Children receiving targeted interventions undergo regular assessments to track their progress and ensure that they are reaching developmental milestones. Professionals may adjust interventions based on these assessments.
Watch this video to hear more from Jodie Wynne, Physiotherapist, and Sally Holmes, Occupational Therapist in Stockport, explore how early intervention can reduce the number of referrals to specialist services:
Reflect
Stop and Reflect: Reflect on the following questions to deepen your understanding of the importance of early intervention:
– How might early intervention influence physical development and positive outcomes in your setting/service?
– Make a list of the different targeted interventions and services you are aware of. Research how to refer for further support.