s.m.a.r.t. newsletter - sept 2024

S.M.A.R.T. SPACES

Happy 2024-2025 school year and welcome to your S.M.A.R.T. journey! This may be year 1 or year 9…but for all of us, S.M.A.R.T. “day 1” goes right back to the basics. Let’s Alligator Crawl!

This movement is a powerhouse and can feel daunting to teach. We want to help with a few key reminders. 

First of all, you’ve got this! You know the children you are working with need this. Remember the ah-ha moments during the workshop where we discovered just how crucial this developmental milestone is?!

Keep it simple. As you model and teach this activity, give just a few instructions.
​Here are a few to use right away:

• Stay low. The belly should stay on the ground
• Arms will be reaching forward, as if they are swimming
• ​Feet will be pushing behind them to help drive them forward​

Allow time to practice, practice, practice. Add in some fun by taking small groups to the back of the room to race from one wall to the other to “catch” you. If you have access to a large space like a gym or gross motor room, host an Alligator Race that provides an opportunity to try out this big body movement. 

The frequency, intensity, and duration of this brain stimulating movement is crucial so don’t let time slip away from teaching the Alligator Crawl. 

References:
S.M.A.R.T. Pre-K CORE Guide pages 47-49
S.M.A.R.T. Curriculum Guide pages 66-69