Shoulder/Elbow Stability
The use of larger vertical surfaces such as whiteboard walls allows children to use bigger arm movements that encourage strength and flexibility throughout the joints and muscles of the upper extremities.
Bilateral Coordination
For kids, tracing an object, using a stencil, or even just stabilizing their paper to write on an upright surface requires the use of both hands (one to trace, one to hold) AND it requires proprioception and strength to hold the object that is being traced!
Midline Crossing
When a child is writing or drawing across a sizeable vertical surface, he has to cross the midline of his body with his dominant hand to reach all of the spaces. This is an excellent practice for children who are struggling with midline crossing and establishing a strong hand dominance.
Wrist Extension/Pencil Grasp
Vertical surface writing naturally puts the wrist in an extended position which encourages hand stabilization for better pencil grasp and control of writing utensils.
Visual Attention & Hand-Eye Coordination
Working on a vertical surface brings the task closer to the child's eyes. This helps kids who have difficulty maintaining visual attention to activities and can help to encourage hand-eye coordination, as the child has a better view of what they're doing!
Spatial Awareness
When a child works on large vertical surfaces like whiteboard walls, it makes directional terms (up, down, left, right) much easier to understand because the child can relate the words to his very own body!
Sensory
Working at whiteboard walls may be beneficial for fidgety kids who work better in a standing position than sitting at a desk. Let's face it, we all work better if we can change positions!
Core Strength and Posture
Working in a kneeling or standing position at an upright surface gives kids a good dose of core strengthening. There's no slumping or leaning on the back of the chair – the only choice is to engage those core and back muscles to maintain upright posture!
Call us at (800) 936-2159
and speak with a friendly coating specialist or visit us at:
Comments