Page 11 - Module 2: Teachers Guide for Getting Ready for Writing PONY

Module 2: Getting Ready for Writing Teacher’s Guide.
Head Drop: Front and Back
Objective: Teaching the body about midline - beanbag drop
Lesson Plan:
Experiencing the sensory midline of the body, whilst learning to isolate the head from the body. This movement helps develop body awareness and control.
1. In standing if able, or in sitting.
2. Demonstrate the movement first.
3. Give each child a soft beanbag that lies flat on their head, folding to the contours of
their skull. Ideal size and weight of the beanbag is 4 inch square, with a quarter
cup of rice. Beanbags can be purchased by emailing info@hemispheres.org.uk.
4. Position the beanbag on top of the head. Position both hands at the centre of the
body close to the tummy button, in readiness to catch the beanbag.
5. Slowly tip the head forward, so the beanbag slides. If aligned at midline the
beanbag should fall into the waiting hands.
6. Repeat this movement 10 times.
This movement needs to be included regularly and frequently across the week.
More to Learn:
1. Begin the movement with the children
slowly tipping their head forward so the
beanbag slides into their hands.
2. When the children can complete the
movement forward, extend it by asking them to do the same movement backwards.
3. When tipping the head backwards, do any of the children show a sense of ‘fear’ or ‘anxiety’? These children may find the movement easier sitting down initially.
Support:
Encourage the children not to lean forward and to keep their backs straight.
Encourage children to move their head slowly, so the beanbag slides and is not flipped.
© 2016. Shelley Birkett-Eyles. Hemispheres Think Write Limited
Motor Skills