Motor planning is an essential skill for children, yet many parents may not fully understand its role in everyday development. Motor planning refers to the brain’s ability to conceive, organise, and execute a sequence of movements. It is a foundational skill that allows children to perform tasks efficiently, from tying shoelaces to participating in sports. Recognising the importance of motor planning can help parents support their child’s growth and development effectively.
1. Motor Planning Is a Brain-Body Connection
Motor planning involves both cognitive and physical components. The brain must process information, decide on a sequence of movements, and send accurate signals to muscles to complete the task. Children who struggle with motor planning may appear clumsy, disorganised, or hesitant when performing new activities.
2. It Affects Everyday Tasks
From dressing to eating to writing, motor planning impacts almost every aspect of daily life. Children use motor planning skills to brush teeth, cut food, or manipulate small objects. Difficulties in this area can make routine tasks frustrating or slow, affecting confidence and independence.
3. Motor Planning Influences Academic Skills
Fine motor tasks such as handwriting, drawing, or using scissors rely heavily on motor planning. Children who struggle may have messy handwriting, slow completion of schoolwork, or difficulty following instructions that require sequential movements. Supporting motor planning can directly improve academic performance.
4. Gross Motor Skills Depend on Motor Planning
Beyond fine motor control, motor planning is crucial for gross motor skills like running, jumping, climbing, or catching a ball. Children with weak motor planning may avoid playground activities, struggle with coordination, or appear less confident in sports.
5. Sensory Processing Is Linked to Motor Planning
Sensory input helps children understand how their bodies move in space. Children with sensory processing difficulties may find it harder to plan movements accurately. For example, a child who is hypersensitive to touch may avoid tasks requiring tactile input, such as finger painting or tying shoelaces.
6. Repetition Builds Motor Planning Skills
Children strengthen motor planning through repeated practice and experience. Activities like obstacle courses, building blocks, or cooking tasks provide opportunities to plan and execute sequences of movement. Consistent repetition helps the brain develop efficient movement strategies over time.
7. Play Supports Development
Play is not just fun; it is essential for motor planning development. Games that require coordination, sequencing, or strategy—such as Simon Says, hopscotch, or ball games—help children practise planning and executing movements in a natural, engaging way.
8. Early Intervention Makes a Difference
If motor planning challenges are identified early, targeted support can prevent frustration and improve confidence. Occupational therapists can provide structured activities and exercises to strengthen planning skills, fine-tune coordination, and build independence in daily tasks.
9. Each Child Develops at Their Own Pace
Motor planning skills develop gradually, and children progress at different rates. Some may excel in gross motor activities while struggling with fine motor tasks, and vice versa. Understanding individual differences allows parents to provide tailored support without pressure or comparison.
10. Collaboration With Professionals Helps
Parents can work alongside paediatric occupational therapists to create strategies for home and school. Therapists offer practical exercises, routines, and environmental adjustments that reinforce motor planning skills in daily life. This collaboration ensures children develop skills in a structured yet enjoyable way.
Motor planning is a critical skill that influences a child’s independence, confidence, and participation in daily activities. By understanding these 10 key facts, parents can recognise challenges early, provide appropriate support, and collaborate with professionals when needed. With consistent practice, targeted strategies, and encouragement, children can strengthen motor planning skills, improving their ability to navigate everyday tasks and enjoy life to the fullest.
