An example of a stability movement course for preschool children is presented. (JMF)

Tests indicate that males have better performance than females in motor performance tests, with the exception of flexibility; black children ran significantly faster than white children in the 30-yd dash, but significant race differences were not evident on any other motor items. (JD)

Used writing tasks recorded on a computer-monitored XY tablet to differentiate between normal variations in psychomotor development and dysgraphia in 16 young children. Found that control of spatial accuracy, not allograph retrieval or size control, discriminated dysgraphic children from others. Poor writers were less accurate than proficient…

Examines the meaning of reaction time (RT) and the possibility that it may predict other cognitive and motor skills in the first year of life. Considers two competing models that specify the information-processing components underlying RT performance. Describes the neural data needed to definitively choose between the models and considers…

Notes that observational learning of a motor skill involves both observation of the model and self-observation. Examines observation of the modeled performance, including three moderators of observational learning: the properties of the model, the nature of the task, and observer determinants. Observer determinants are examined at length,…

A pretest-posttest control group design was used to measure the effect of practical life materials (e.g., tweezers, tongs, spoons) on kindergarten children's fine motor skill development. Experimental and control group teachers reported equal amounts of fine motor activity in their classrooms; however, significant interaction effects were found…

Explored how parents appraise their children and use information about child development in appraisal process. Utilized structured interview with 100 parents seeking well-child pediatric care. Proposes four-part model of the appraisal process based on findings that parents observe, compare, appraise, and explain the appraisals of their child's…

Neurochemical and psychological effects of fenfluramine were examined on 20 autistic children (aged 1-10) over a 48-week period. A decrease in abnormal motor behavior was found, but no improvement in intellectual functioning. Serotonin decreased 53 percent after fenfluramine treatment and rebounded to levels 35 percent higher than baseline…

Kicking activities are recommended to provide severely disabled children with greater coordination, improved dexterity, increased leg strength, and physical enjoyment. Steps are outlined to achieve three goals: touch a ball, push a ball, and kick a ball. Several teaching suggestions are provided. (JDD)

This article is excerpted from a speech by co-founder of Women's Sports Foundation. Sports is a vital part of our socialization process. The level and quality of participation contributes to such diverse issues as girls' mathematical ability, sense of isolation, and self-esteem. (IAH)

Discusses the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) which is used to investigate the neural basis for motor learning in monkeys. Suggests organizing principles that may apply in forms of motor learning as a result of similarities among VOR and other motor systems. (Author/RT)

This article highlights difficulties in replicating the Andras Peto Institute for Motor Disorders in Hungary by establishing the Birmingham (England) Institute for Conductive Education, for children with cerebral palsy. Difficulties included a lack of conductive education principles in clear English, failure to properly identify children who could…

Isometric pinch force regulation was investigated in children and adults using a visuo-motor tracking paradigm. Younger children aged 5-7 years performed significantly worse than older children aged 9-11 years and adults in terms of an overall error score as well as a correlation score, which is believed to reflect the ability to predict the…

This study found that 5 7-year-old and 4 10-year-old prelingually hearing-impaired children displayed evidence of anticipatory coarticulation based on temporal and spectral cues, but they did so to a lesser degree than normally hearing children. (Author/JDD)

Offers a rationale for parent involvement in early childhood education. Describes the benefits of mother-child gymnastics in terms of the development of motor skills and positive attitudes toward school. Highlights particular exercises and games. (AC)