Children in Grey and Bruce counties are falling behind the provincial standard for development.
Measures of developmental health show children in Grey Bruce are vulnerable in areas of physical health and well-being, including fine and gross motor skills. Health officials said that means children are at risk of encountering difficulties in school and beyond
The Grey Bruce Health Unit has issued a call to action to ensure local children learn the basic motor skills needed to succeed when they start school.
Those skills include holding a pencil, jumping, balancing, running and climbing.
The call to action identifies key factors contributing to motor skill development and offers strategies for community action in various sectors such as service providers, caregivers and families.
Actions include creating environments for play and incorporating play in everyday activities.
“We all have a role to play in supporting young children on the path for learning,” said Leanne Hopkins, manager of child and family services for Community Living Owen Sound & District. “Parents, educators, service providers, health care practitioners, recreation leaders and neighbourhoods can work together to provide the opportunities that children need to play and actively develop fine and gross motor skills.”
