Grade 3 Movement Basic Motor Skill – Sliding Notes
Movement — Basic Motor Skill: Sliding
Age: 8 years • Location: Kenya (school playground, compound, field)
What is sliding?
Sliding is moving your body smoothly along a surface. Children slide down a playground slide (sitting) or slide sideways (a safe, low movement) when playing games or stopping while running.
Why sliding helps
- Builds balance and control
- Improves leg strength and coordination
- Useful in games like football, dodgeball and dancing
- Fun and good for leaving energy in a safe way
Types of sliding (easy to practise)
- Playground slide (sitting) — Sit with feet first, hands on the sides, push with hands or feet to start slowly.
- Side slide (lateral) — Move sideways by stepping and sliding the other foot to join it. Keep low, knees slightly bent.
- Stop slide — Use a short slide (bend knees, push one foot forward, drag to slow down) to stop safely on grass or a mat.
How to do a safe side slide — Steps
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees a little and keep your chest up.
- Push off with one foot (the strong foot) and step sideways.
- Slide the other foot to meet the first — keep feet on the ground, not hopping.
- Use your arms out to the side for balance.
Try 5 side slides each way. Keep arms out for balance 🌟
Safety first
- Always have a teacher or adult watching when you practise.
- Choose soft ground (grass, sand or a mat). Avoid wet stones and hard concrete.
- Wear proper shoes (no slippery sandals). Remove sharp objects (rings, keys).
- Do not push others on the slide. Take turns.
Fun practice games (Kenya-friendly)
- Slide and Stop: Run a short race and finish with a safe stop slide on grass.
- Follow the Leader: Leader does a side slide, others copy. Change speed and direction.
- Slide Freeze: Music plays; when it stops everyone must freeze in sliding position.
What a teacher/parent checks
- Child bends knees and keeps chest up while sliding.
- Can slide sideways 3 times each side without falling.
- Uses arms to balance and stops safely on soft ground.