Interlimb coordination: an important facet of gross-motor ability
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Date
2009Author
Cacola, Priscila M.
Bobbio, Tatiana
Gabbard, Carl
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Show full item recordAbstract
Motor development attains landmark significance during early childhood. Although early childhood educators may be familiar with the grossmotor
skill category, the subcategory of interlimb coordination needs greater attention than it typically receives from teachers of young
children. Interlimb coordination primarily involves movements requiring sequential and simultaneous use of both sides of the body with a high
degree of “rhythmicity.” This article provides a brief overview of the literature on interlimb coordination and describes the development of
interlimb coordination in young children. It also provides examples of potential test items and activities that early childhood educators can use
to help identify children with coordination problems and to help design a movement program for all children that addresses the development of
interlimb coordination.