CECE Physical Development & Motor Skills 3

Question 1

According to NASPE/SHAPE America guidelines, how much total daily physical activity is recommended for preschool-aged children (3–5 years)?

Accepted Answer

At least 3 hours of light to vigorous activity throughout the day

Answer

SHAPE America recommends that preschoolers accumulate at least 3 hours of total physical activity (a mix of light, moderate, and vigorous intensities) spread throughout each day.

Question 2

In early childhood physical education, 'fundamental movement skills' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Basic skills like running, jumping, throwing, and catching that underpin complex physical activity

Answer

Fundamental movement skills are the building blocks of physical literacy, providing the motor foundation children need to participate in sports, dance, and active play throughout life.

Question 3

An early childhood educator notices a child reaches only with the right hand even for objects on the left side of the body. This may indicate difficulty with:

Accepted Answer

Crossing the midline

Answer

Crossing the midline — moving a limb across the body's vertical center — is a key developmental skill; avoidance of it can interfere with reading, writing, and everyday tasks.

Question 4

Which type of play simultaneously supports both gross motor and fine motor development in preschoolers?

Accepted Answer

Constructive block building and manipulation

Answer

Block play requires children to carry and stack large blocks (gross motor) while placing, balancing, and handling smaller pieces with precision (fine motor), making it uniquely dual-purpose.

Question 5

Sensory integration, as it relates to early childhood motor development, refers to:

Accepted Answer

The brain's process of organizing sensory input to produce coordinated motor responses

Answer

Sensory integration is the neurological process by which the brain interprets and organizes information from the senses to plan and execute purposeful movement.

(CECE) Certified Early Childhood Educator Practice Test

(CECE) Certified Early Childhood Educator Practice Test

CECE Physical Development & Motor Skills 3