Toddlers are naturally curious, energetic, and always on the move—so why not turn that energy into skill-building fun? These 4 fun activities that will improve your toddler's gross motor development are simple, engaging, and great for growing bodies.Whether it’s jumping, climbing, or dancing, these activities help build strength, coordination and confidence. With 4 fun activities that will improve your toddler's gross motor development, you’ll be encouraging healthy movement while having loads of fun together. Written by Nanny 'n Me.
Big muscle development – also called gross motor development – refers to the development of the large muscle groups of the body (legs, arms and torso) which are responsible for the whole body’s movement. This includes everyday movements like sitting, crawling, standing, walking, running and jumping, as well as coordinated activities such as ball skills, skipping, swimming or riding a bike.
How do gross motor skills develop?
Gross motor development is foundational for many functional tasks and starts emerging soon after birth. Babies transition from reflex movement to more controlled voluntary movement as they reach various milestones – this includes being able to hold up their head independently, roll, sit, crawl, stand and walk. As babies progress to toddlers, gross motor skills become more controlled and advanced and they are able to do things like jump, hop, balance, climb, run, throw and catch. As they get older, these skills advance from general to specific as they gain more strength and coordination.
The development of the large muscles of the core, arms and legs can provide stability, enabling smaller muscle development which allows for more controlled, precise and accurate movements.
You can’t expect a child to do things like write or draw when they haven’t developed the ability to maintain an upright posture while seated at a desk. Children develop motor skills from the center of their bodies outward – the head, torso, arms and legs develop before the fingers, toes and other small muscles.
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Why gross motor development is so important in early childhood:
- It allows children the ability to move and gain control of their own bodies in order to complete tasks independently (e.g. to develop core stability in order to maintain a seated posture while using the toilet)
- It helps children build strength and endurance, which assists them in maintaining good posture and performing functional tasks
- It promotes healthy growth and better concentration through physical activity
- It enables them to actively explore their environment and the world around them, which enhances learning on a sensory, cognitive and language-based level
- It allows them to feel confident in their own ability and keeps them motivated to try and perform or refine new skills
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4 fun activities that will improve your toddler’s gross motor development:
One of the best ways to encourage gross motor development in toddlers is to create a DIY obstacle course which encourages whole body movements such as crawling, climbing, balancing, jumping, hopping, throwing and catching. When your toddler is still young (12 – 18 months), you will need to build the course for them and help them execute it. But, as they get older and more independent, you can encourage them to create their own obstacle course.
If we don’t monitor our baby/toddler’s gross motor development through reaching of basic milestones, we may miss signs of developmental. It’s important to speak to a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist if you suspect your child has any delayed gross motor milestones.
BabyYumYum FAQs: Toddler Gross Motor Development
What are gross motor skills in toddlers?
Gross motor skills involve large muscle movements of the arms, legs, and core. In toddlers, this includes activities like crawling, walking, jumping, climbing, running, and throwing.
At what age should toddlers start showing gross motor skills?
Gross motor skills begin developing in infancy with rolling and sitting, and continue through toddlerhood with walking, climbing, and more complex activities like hopping and throwing.
Why are gross motor skills important for toddlers?
They’re essential for independence, coordination, confidence, and healthy physical development. Strong gross motor skills also support fine motor development and school readiness.
How can I tell if my toddler has a delay in gross motor development?
Warning signs might include not sitting, crawling, or walking by typical age ranges. If your child seems to avoid movement or struggles with balance and coordination, it’s worth consulting a paediatric physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
What kind of physical activities support gross motor development?
Activities such as dancing, running, climbing, playing on jungle gyms, ball games, and obstacle courses all help to develop gross motor skills in a fun and engaging way.
Can indoor play help improve gross motor skills?
Yes. Even in small spaces, activities like crawling under tables, climbing over cushions, or playing “Simon Says” can improve coordination and muscle control.
How often should I encourage gross motor play?
Toddlers benefit from active play every day. Short, frequent sessions are ideal to build strength and coordination without overwhelming them.
Is it normal for toddlers to prefer certain types of movement?
Yes. Some toddlers may be natural climbers, while others prefer running or throwing. Encourage a range of movements to ensure balanced development.
Can screen time impact gross motor development?
Excessive screen time may reduce opportunities for physical activity. It’s important to limit screen time and prioritise movement and exploration, especially during early development.
When should I seek professional support?
If your child isn’t meeting basic movement milestones or shows signs of weakness, fatigue, or imbalance, seek advice from a healthcare professional such as a paediatric physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
References (South African and International):
- South African Society of Physiotherapy (SASP)
- Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa (OTASA)
- HealthyChildren.org – Gross Motor Development
- NHS – Physical Development in Early Years
- Zero to Three – Movement Milestones
Disclaimer: This content is intended for general educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned about your child’s development, always consult with a qualified healthcare provider.
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