Unless we are learning a new skill, our movements become automatic. Motor planning is developed through experience. A child will learn to stand, balance, take a step, walk, then run and jump and so on. Each skill is learnt and used to further develop mastery over movement ability for new actions.

Motor planning is the ability to:

• Have the idea for the movement required
• Be able to organise movements for the activity
• Sequence the movements in a coordinated manner
• Know through feedback from the body if the action has been completed correctly with the ability to adjust to the demands of the task

Motor planning is highly complex, but a normal part of development. Difficulties in this area have a significant impact on the ability to complete everyday tasks.