Motor Planning

Motor planning refers to the ability to conceptualize an idea, plan out what to do, and execute the motor task. For example, brushing your teeth may seem like an easy and automatic task. The brain performs quick planning before you start the routine and as you continue to brush. Your brain plans out what the next steps are as your brushing your teeth all the way until you have completed the task. A child that demonstrates good motor planning skills is able to use the experience gained from an activity, adjust any errors made, and find more efficient ways to complete the task. A child who struggles with motor planning will experience brushing their teeth each time as if it were their first time. They may appear clumsy and slow. Below you will find ways to improve your child’s motor planning abilities.