The Transdisciplinary Motor Clinic (TMC), in the UH Mānoa College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science (KRS), provides children of all abilities between the ages of 3–10 the opportunity to develop their fine and gross motor skills. Serving as the laboratory component of several physical education teacher education classes, the clinic is run by undergraduate students under the guidance of KRS faculty.

Each week, KRS students plan and teach the lessons in a nurturing cooperative environment to enhance children’s social, emotional, and motor skill development. The clinic offer a variety of educational activities and games, including gymnastics, dance, golf, soccer, track and field, and strength and fitness. Conducted at UH Mānoa’s athletic facilities, the program utilizes equipment to adapt to each child’s potential as well as to accomplish the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) recommended 60 minutes of physical activity a day.

“The motor clinic has played an important role in my daughter’s physical and social development,” said Brittney Yim. “At her preschool, she gets one 30 minute PE class from an uncertified PE teacher. When she goes to the motor clinic, she gets another three hours of structured physical movement, reinforcement of skills, and games.”

Held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 4:20 p.m., the 10-week clinic also features a standardized assessment. Participants are given measurement tests at three points (beginning, middle, and end) throughout the program, and parents and guardians receive written progress reports.

There is a small enrollment fee – $30 for one child and $25 each for two or more children – as well as a $5 parking fee if you plan to stay for more than 30 minutes. Parents do not need to stay for the clinic, but are welcome to watch or take advantage of a free aerobics class that is offered at the same time as the clinic. Visit the clinic website for more information or to register.