In the leafy suburbs of Oakleigh East and across the City of Monash, we often focus on whether our kids can write their names or recognise numbers before they start Prep. However, many local teachers and paediatricians are noticing a different trend: an increasing number of children are arriving at school struggling with “the basics”—not of the alphabet, but of physical movement.
From holding a pencil correctly to sitting still on a mat, these physical skills are the “quiet engine” of school success. If your child seems a bit clumsy or tires easily during physical play at the local park, they aren’t alone. Understanding why this is happening and how to help at home can make a world of difference.
The Modern “Movement Gap”
In 2026, the way children move has changed. Even in active communities like Monash, several factors have contributed to a shift in physical development:
- Sedentary “Digital” Time: Swiping a screen requires very different muscle engagement than building with heavy blocks or climbing a tree. This leads to a lack of shoulder stability, which is actually the secret to good handwriting.
- The “Convenience” Trap: Velcro shoes and “easy-open” pouches mean children aren’t practicing the fine motor skills (the small muscles in the hands) that previous generations mastered by default.
- Safety Concerns: While we love our safe, modern playgrounds, sometimes “over-supervised” play prevents children from testing their proprioception—their body’s sense of where it is in space.
Key Skills for School Readiness
When we talk about physical skills for school, we are looking at two main areas:
1. Gross Motor & Core Strength
If a child has a “weak core,” they will struggle to sit upright on the carpet during storytime. Instead of listening, their brain is focused on the physical effort of staying upright.
- Signs of Struggle: Slumping at the dinner table, leaning on walls or preferred “W-sitting” on the floor.
2. Fine Motor & Hand-Eye Coordination
Handwriting isn’t just about letters; it’s about the strength and dexterity of the fingers to manipulate a pencil without fatigue.
- Signs of Struggle: Using the whole hand to grip a crayon (palmar grasp) or getting frustrated with buttons and zips.
How Parents in Oakleigh East Can Help
The good news is that the “fix” for these struggles isn’t found in a classroom—it’s found in play. You don’t need expensive equipment; the parks around Monash are your best resource.
- The Playground “Gym”: Encourage your child to use the monkey bars or climbing frames at your local park. These activities build upper body strength, which is essential for the stability needed to write.
- The “Tummy Time” Reset: Even for older children, playing on their tummies (while doing a puzzle or drawing) strengthens the neck and back muscles.
- Ditch the Velcro (Occasionally): Practice with buttons, large beads or even simple “threading” activities at home to build those tiny hand muscles.
- Heavy Work: Have your child help with “heavy” tasks, like carrying a small bag of groceries or pushing a toy trolley. This provides proprioceptive input, which helps calm the nervous system and build body awareness.
Conclusion: Movement is the First Teacher
In Oakleigh East, we want our children to have the best start possible. By prioritising “physical literacy” alongside traditional learning, you are ensuring your child has the stamina and coordination to enjoy school, rather than being exhausted by the physical demands of the day.