Buckle up because once your toddler takes those first steps, they're on a whirlwind adventure of running, jumping, and climbing. These big movements, known as gross motor skills, are a vital part of their development, involving large muscle activities like sitting unassisted and mastering ball games. 💨
When do toddlers learn to run?
Get ready for your little speedster to upgrade from walking to running around 18 to 24 months. 🏃♂️ While a tumble here and there is par for the course, by the time they hit the terrific three, running will be second nature to them. To boost their need for speed, supercharge their playtime with push toys and fun games of "chase."
Join the action with hide and seek or lively rounds of Simon Says. Encourage outdoor exploration by letting them tear around the backyard and take mini-walks or runs, ditching the stroller now and then. 🏁🚗 And for a real running bonanza, head to the park where they can dash around the playground or chase butterflies along nature trails under your watchful eye. It's all about letting them unleash their energy in a safe and supervised way!
Jumping and Climbing!
🔔Developing Jumping Skills
As your toddler hits the age of 2, get ready for a jumpstart in their development. From one-foot hops to confidently landing both feet off the ground, they'll be hopping, leaping, and exploring the thrill of jumping. 🤸♀️🤸♂️ Boost their jumping skills with playful strategies: step-hopping, froggy-style squats, and imitating animal hoppers like bunnies and kangaroos.
🔔Fostering Confidence and Balance through Jumping
Help them balance and build confidence by holding their hand initially and gradually letting them spread their wings, or in this case, their arms. 🧸 Once they've mastered walking, they'll eagerly embrace this new challenge, seeking new heights and fresh perspectives on life.Between their first and second birthdays, climbing becomes their favorite pastime.
🔔Encouraging Safe Climbing
By age 2, most toddlers can expertly climb up and down on furniture without any assistance. Create a safe climbing environment with plastic slides and step stools, visit playgrounds for adventure, and establish clear boundaries about where they can climb. Offer guidance through modeling and clear feedback, nurturing their confidence and coordination as they explore the world from new heights. 🌟
How about kicking?
Get ready for your toddler's soccer debut! ⚽ Somewhere between 18 and 24 months, they'll start showing interest in kicking a ball, and by age 2, most toddlers can't resist giving it a boot. While their first kicks may be more spontaneous than strategic, with practice and patience, they'll be scoring goals in no time. 🥅
To help them practice, start with a ball and enjoy some playful back-and-forth kicking sessions. If they need extra encouragement, consider a toddler sports class for a bit of peer motivation. And, remember, if those kicks get a bit too enthusiastic, it's crucial to set boundaries by addressing aggressive behavior with clear verbal guidance and swift intervention during playdates. Always keep your cool – adult aggression isn't part of the game plan. 👨🏫