Are you wondering if your preschooler is on target with their gross motor development? Do you wish that they were more active? Guess what? There are many fun activities that you can do with your child to build these skills during play!! Embedding practice during play is the best way to learn any new skill! Below are just a few ideas for you to try with your preschooler!
If you have concerns that your child is delayed in this area consider consulting with a PT (Physical Therapist) for further guidance. Most states have Early Intervention Agencies that can help! These agencies work with children under 3 and often provide their services for free. In addition, many school systems will provide screenings for preschoolers (3-5) to help identify children who may be at risk so contact your local one. If they can’t help they should be able to provide you with other local agencies that can!
Tips to build Gross Motor Skills:
1. Outdoor games such as Hopscotch, Red Rover, 1,2, 3 Red light, and duck, duck goose are all fun ways to build those motor skills.
2. Playgrounds- Slides, swings, and monkey bars all build gross motor skills while creating fun memories.
3. Riding toys- Bikes, Tricycles and scooters are great ways to help your child develop their gross motor skills.
4. Dancing- Put on some music and have a dance party! Family fun while building coordination!
5. Bubbles and Balls – Chasing bubbles, kicking and throwing balls are all great ways to build gross motor skills.
6. Obstacle courses- tunnels, balance beams, cones, and hula hoops can all be used to create a fun course for your child to navigate.
These are just a few idea to get you started! Good luck!
Are you looking for some new gross motor games? SimplyFun has a few! Buddy Hop and Do it Again are 2 fun ones! Check out
https://www.simplyfun.com/TinaWilliams
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