This is a great stretch to do just prior to handwriting or other fine motor activities (e.g. using cutlery, doing up buttons, tying shoelaces, threading beads), because it activates the core and upper limb muscles.
Use this stretch in the morning (just after getting out of bed or before entering the classroom) for children who are “slow to start ” in the morning.
Instructions
Kneel on all fours, with your fingers apart
Put your toes on the floor and push your hips up high
Press your heels gently towards the ground
Hold this stretch for at least 10 deep breaths
Watch Points
Knees as straight as possible
Head and neck relaxed, looking towards your feet
Modifications
More Challenging
Multi-Sensory
Ball Skills
Fine Motor
Seated:
Bend your body forward over your legs. Reach your arms out in front of you.
Do Downward Dog with your legs straight and feet flat on the floor.
Combine the Caterpillar Crawl and Downward Dog for a more challenging strengthening and stretching exercise.
Think about being a happy dog with your tail wagging in the air while you’re digging in the dirt below. What might you find while you’re digging?
