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TOPIC 3 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT FOR INFANTS AND TODDLERS 
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(b) ToddlerÊs movements
Toddlers begin to explore and master the movements of their bodies through a variety of activities that involve their fine motor and gross motor muscles. They develop their fine motor skills through manipulative play such as stacking building blocks, rings and puzzles. Scribbling and drawing with crayons also help them to improve their fine motor skills and hand- eye coordination. At a slightly older age, walking provides them with more opportunities to move, touch, manipulate and reach for objects around them. Regular movement and a variety of basic motor activities help them to develop strength, movement control and a sense of their body in space. As they master this strength, they explore more movements such as jumping, running, sliding and rolling.
Once toddlers are fully confident of moving, they begin to discover the joy of climbing. They start climbing anything in their environment. Even though climbing can be hard behaviour for adults to manage, it is an important stage for toddlersÊ gross motor skills and muscle development. Adults can teach toddlers the proper and safe way to climb such as ascending and descending stairs. To let them practise their climbing skills, adults can place a small set of stairs or slide to allow them to go up and down by themselves. Climbing provides excellent experience and helps develop a toddlerÊs body coordination and control.
3.2.3 Play Equipment in Infants’ and Toddlers’ Physical Environment
An important aspect of assessing the physical environment is determining the play equipment that is appropriate for infants and toddlers. This play equipment (see Table 3.1) or toys should be able to help infants and toddlers enhance their learning experience by moving around and exploring the environment. It is designed to help infants and toddlers practise their large motor movements as well as small motor movements through play. The best play equipment or toys can actively engage infants and toddlers in many areas of development. They can be used in a variety of ways, depending on the childÊs ability, interest and imagination.
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