Do you know why preschools use easels? There is an absolute functional purpose to them and they are a goldmine for developing critical skills! You see, when kiddos work on a vertical surface they are gaining so many developmental benefits!
A recent study published by the American Journal of Occupational Therapy compared a small group of students working on a vertical surface (wall) and a horizontal surface (desk). While accuracy was not improved, speed and fluidity of movements improved when working in a vertical plane. The upper trapezius muscles were also activated while writing on the vertical surface.
So what does this mean?
When writing or working in a vertical plane, the muscles of the shoulder girdle and core are turned on. This can lead to increased muscle control as well as improve visual tracking and eye convergence skills.
Standing up can help fidgety children sustain their attention and engage in learning moreso than when they are seated!
A vertical surface improves bilateral coordination! Have you tried doing anything on the wall with just one hand? It is so hard- a stencil, reaching up to change a light bulb, washing a window or mirror… all of these tasks are better performed with one hand stabilizing and one hand doing.
The wrist is placed in extension and encourages better control of the fingers.
Working against gravity provides a great strengthening activity!
Working on a vertical surface assists with directionality and spatial awareness.
While doing big movements in various directions, your kiddo is working on crossing their midline which helps with handedness, and gets both sides of the brain working together!
So what are some other ideas of things you can do in a vertical plane?
I love taping a cardboard paper towel roll or toilet paper roll to the wall and having kids make a ball run or ball drop with pom poms or other small balls- added bonus if done in a tall kneel position to build core strength.
Try a spray bottle!
Bath crayons make writing so fun- so do window crayons!
Use shaving cream on a wall or easel.
Try Squiz on a wall or window- even in the bath too!
Window clings or reusable stickers are loads of fun!
Contact paper is fantastic for little ones with the sticky side out for sticking various materials to it!
And of course, one of my favorites is painting a wall with water!
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References
Portnoy, S., Mimouni-Bloch, A., Rosenberg, L., Offek, H., Berman, T., Kochavi, M., & Friedman, J. (2018). Graphical Product Quality and Muscle Activity in Children With Mild Disabilities Drawing on a Horizontally or Vertically Oriented Tablet. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(6), 7206205040p1-7206205040p7.
Korbey, H. (2014, October 21). How Standing Desks can Help Students in the Classroom. KQED Mindshift.
https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/38120/how-standing-desks-can-help-students-focus-in-the-classroom
