This course explores the influence of physical activity on learning/cognitive and social-emotional development in infancy and toddlerhood. In the early years, movement is developmentally essential for laying a strong foundation for brain development. Practical application will focus on the concept of viewing dynamic systems as a crossroads for maturational theory and evidence-based practice. In the end, the goal is an understanding of the physical activities of early development that lead to a positive developmental trajectory for each baby and toddler.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Understand early brain development and the impact this has for movement in infancy
• Understand brain function/growth and development as stimulated by movement for learning motor skills, cognitive skills, and social-emotional skills of infancy and toddlerhood
• Understand the concepts of the expression of a range of normal development and the critical role of an actively engaged adult for early childhood learning
• Understand the main theories of human development currently framing the understanding of appropriate physical activities for infants and toddlers

The course is divided into eight learning modules:

Unit 1: Introduction

Unit 2: Nature Nurture

Unit 3: Basic Brain Development: Neurons to Neighborhoods

Unit 4: Movement in Infancy and Toddlerhood: Involuntary to Voluntary

Unit 5: Theories of Human Development and Motor Development

Unit 6: Best Practice in Infant Toddler Movement Skill Performance

Unit 7: Domain Development and Movement Skill Performance

Unit 8: Infant Locomotion and Reach-Grasp-Release

Next Session: September 17 to November 19, 2012

Cost

$225 registration fee (group rates available)

Register Online

Required Materials

Your readings are included on the course site. You are required to rent and view a documentary called Babies (available online for $3.00). No additional materials are required for purchase.

Continuing Education Certificate

24 clock hours

Carol Leitschuh, Instructor

Carol Leitschuh, Ph.D. offers early childhood movement training and consultation for children with atypical and typical movement skills. She focuses on the successful development of early childhood movement skills as being critical in addressing positive developmental trajectories and avoiding cumulative risk. Her areas of specialization include early childhood motor development, infant/toddler and preschool assessment, intervention; and early childhood special education. Dr. Leitschuh developed a valid and reliable monitoring tool of infant/toddler movement that takes 2 minutes for an observational assessment. The Individual Growth and Development Indicator for Infant/Toddler Movement is highly correlated with an overall assessment of motor skills. For trainings, speaking engagements, or further information, contact Carol Leitschuh at leitschu@umn.edu.

Dr. Leitschuh authored and instructs the online course Critical Learning Through Movement: Infants and Toddlers Exploring Their World.

Related Resources

• Flyer:   Critical Learning Through Movement
• Project: Movement IGDIS: Development and Validation of Functional Movement Skills for Young Children with Disabilities

Upcoming Sessions

• Fall 2012: September 17 to November 19, 2012

Questions?

If you have further questions our would like a copy of the syllabus, please contact Karen Anderson, CEED Online Course Manager, at 612-625-6617 or ander352@umn.edu.

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