Psychomotor intervention and contribution to the development of language in special educational needs

Abstract

This investigation pretends to demonstrate the influence and contribution of psychomotor assistance in the language development of three children aged from four to five years old with special needs education due to their intellectual disabilities. It focuses on their language improvement using a psychomotor program for three months. The program is based on movement and motor play as a complement to the speech therapy assistance. The group of children taking place in the investigation have language problems and/or difficulties, as well as, some specific issues as: Down´s syndrome, development retardation or autism. The test carried with these kids is called Batelle (Newborg, Stock y Weck, 2001) and examines their language and motor abilities before and after the test. The results show positive effects in their comprehensive and expressive language and their psychomotor activity. Psychomotor development is fundamental for every evolutionary development and it also improves and encourages children participation in speech therapy sessions. This can be very beneficial when participating in school activities with other children with special educational needs.