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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Motor Development Specialists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Motor Development Specialists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 7%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Adapt instructional techniques to the age and skill levels of students.
Instruct students, using adapted physical education techniques, to improve physical fitness, gross motor skills, perceptual motor skills, or sports and game achievement.
Provide individual or small groups of students with adapted physical education instruction that meets desired physical needs or goals.
If you're passionate about helping individuals enhance their motor skills and are considering a career as a Motor Development Specialist, you'll need to follow a series of steps to enter this rewarding field. The path to becoming a Motor Development Specialist involves a combination of education, hands-on experience, and certification.
To become a Motor Development Specialist, you typically need to start with a solid educational foundation:
Bachelor's Degree: Obtain a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as kinesiology, exercise science, physical therapy, or occupational therapy. Make sure your program includes coursework in motor development, anatomy, physiology, and psychology.
Master's Degree (Optional): For those looking to further specialize or advance in the field, a master's degree can be beneficial. Programs focusing on motor development, special education, or pediatric therapy provide more in-depth knowledge and skills.
Practical experience is crucial in this field:
Internships: Participate in internships or volunteer work during your undergraduate or graduate studies. Look for opportunities in settings such as schools, rehabilitation centers, or pediatric clinics where motor development services are offered.
Work Experience: After graduation, seek employment in roles that allow you to work with populations needing motor development assistance. This could include roles as an assistant in physical or occupational therapy settings.
Depending on where you plan to practice and your area of specialization, certification and licensure may be required:
Certification: Certifications specific to motor development are available and can enhance your credibility. Consider certifications like the Certified Movement Analyst (CMA) offered by organizations such as the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies.
State Licensure: If you're working as part of a physical or occupational therapy team, you may need to be licensed in your state. Check with your state's licensing board for specific requirements. Ensure that all certifications and licenses are kept current through continuing education and renewal processes.
Staying informed about the latest research and techniques is important:
Professional Development: Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on motor development to keep your skills sharp.
Advanced Certifications: Consider obtaining additional certifications in related areas such as sensory integration or neurodevelopmental treatment to broaden your expertise.
As you gain experience, you may choose to specialize in working with specific populations or conditions:
Pediatrics: Specializing in children's motor development often requires additional training in pediatric therapy techniques.
Geriatrics: Working with older adults may require knowledge of age-related motor skill challenges and degenerative conditions.
Building a professional network can lead to job opportunities and professional growth:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming a Motor Development Specialist. Remember that this career requires a dedication to ongoing learning and a commitment to improving the lives of those with motor skill challenges.
A Motor Development Specialist is a professional who works with individuals to enhance their motor skills, which can include gross motor skills like walking and jumping, as well as fine motor skills such as writing and manipulating small objects. They often work with children, but they can also assist adults who have experienced injuries or have developmental concerns.
To become a Motor Development Specialist, you typically need:
Certification requirements can vary, but common certifications include:
Motor Development Specialists can be found in a variety of settings, including:
Yes, there is a growing demand for Motor Development Specialists due to an increased awareness of the importance of early childhood development and the needs of the aging population. The demand can also be attributed to the rise in developmental disorders such as autism.
Important skills for this career include:
Career advancement can be achieved through:
Yes, joining professional organizations can be beneficial. Some organizations include:
Membership in these organizations can provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education.
Salaries for Motor Development Specialists vary based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, level of education, and specific job setting. On average, salaries can range from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 per year.
For more detailed information about salary and job outlook, you may want to visit government websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Yes, some Motor Development Specialists establish their own private practices after gaining substantial experience and building a client base. However, they must adhere to their state’s licensure requirements and business regulations.