Episode #2
Movement Matters - Key Physical Milestones
In this episode of The Early Years Together , Deborah Brown and Dr Jacqueline Young explore the key physical developmental milestones that children typically experience from birth to five years. As part of the Movement Matters series, they discuss why physical development is a prime area of learning within the Early Years Foundation Stage and how movement supports children's wellbeing, independence, confidence, and overall development. The conversation examines both gross motor and fine motor development, outlining typical developmental progressions from infancy through to school readiness. Deborah and Jacqueline explain how skills such as balance, coordination, strength, climbing, running, grasping, mark-making, and self-care develop over time, and highlight the important role of active play and everyday experiences in supporting children's growth. Listeners will also learn why understanding developmental milestones matters, how practitioners and parents can observe children's progress, and the importance of recognising individual differences rather than comparing children to one another. The episode considers early identification of potential concerns and discusses signs that may warrant closer monitoring or additional support. Whether you are an early years practitioner, student, parent, or caregiver, this episode provides a practical overview of children's physical development journeys and offers valuable insights into supporting young children to thrive. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how children develop movement skills and why physical development forms the foundation for future learning and success. Subscribe, share, and step into a podcast made for reflective early years practice. Episode One References: Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust (n.d.) Developmental delay guidance. Available at: https://cambspborochildrenshealth.nhs.uk/services/cambridgeshire-childrens-physiotherapy-service/developmental-delay-guidance/ Department for Education (2023) Development Matters: non-statutory curriculum guidance for the early years foundation stage. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/development-matters--2 NHS (n.d.) Physical activity guidelines for children under 5 years. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/physical-activity-guidelines-children-under-five-years/ Hosts: Deborah Brown www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-brown79 Dr Jacqueline Young www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jacqueline-young Mixing Engineer: Luke Young www.linkedin.com/in/lukeyoungcomposer Title music by: Luke Young www.linkedin.com/in/lukeyoungcomposer
