At Svejserdalen Preschool in Mölndal, physical activity is not an isolated area, but a natural part of the children's everyday lives. The preschool works with physical literacy an approach and integrates basic motor skills into existing focus areas. By weaving movement into their literature profile, it becomes easier for children to dare to try new movements – if, for example, "Little Brother Rabbit" jumps first, more children dare to follow.
The literature profile means that various fairy tale characters are often used as a starting point for learning. Together with physical activities, this creates enjoyable learning that engages children in several ways. Teachers notice that children are more willing to try different movements, especially when they are linked to stories and fairy tale characters. One example is when the Lady-in-Waiting, in the fairy tale about the Prisoners in the Castle with the wonderful rabbit family, asks all the children to climb over "the big thorn hedge," thereby integrating physical activity into the story.
A changed approach to exercise
The collaboration with Make a Move has led to a change in attitude towards movement. Teachers are more permissive, especially indoors. Instead of saying "don't run here," children are encouraged with "watch where you're running." When the younger children have gatherings, a movement bag with slips of paper containing various exercises is used—a way to let the children move around instead of trying to get them to sit still when their legs start to fidget.
When asked for her best tip for other preschools that want to increase physical activity, Sanna Nilsson, a preschool teacher at the preschool, replies:
– A big and simple first step toward creating continuity at preschool is to decide on a recurring day and time each week when you offer some form of planned physical activity. This ensures that physical activity has a place and becomes a natural part of the education program, while spontaneous, enjoyable physical activity continues to flourish in everyday life.
To integrate exercise into daily life, the preschool has developed its environment and materials. In addition to a standing day with a special focus on movement, there is now a movement wall that encourages daily activity. Story bags inspired by Make a Move and materials made from recycled resources are used extensively. The educators have realized that much of what is needed is already available, and that an inventory of existing materials can provide new opportunities for play and learning.
Continued development going forward
By working with movement, the preschool strengthens its educational work in accordance with the curriculum. Teachers have become more permissive, and risky play is given more space, which is important for children's development and self-confidence.
Svejserdalen Preschool sees further opportunities for development. These include engaging all colleagues, reaching out to parents and guardians to establish a shared view of physical activity, and delegating responsibility so that everyone feels ownership of the work.
Tips from Svejserdalen Preschool for working with physical activity in preschool
- A first step could be to introduce a regular day and time each week for physical activity.
- Integrate movement into planned focus areas
- Take stock of the materials you already have; many can be used for new physical activities.
- Let risky play take place, think about why you as an adult say no
