As parents, we all want our children to grow up strong, confident, and physically capable. A big part of that development comes from gross motor skills—the abilities that allow kids to control their large muscles for activities like crawling, walking, running, jumping, and climbing.
But what if your child seems a little behind in these skills? Or maybe you just want to give them a fun, active boost at home? As a paediatric physiotherapist, I’ve worked with countless families to help kids build strength, coordination, and confidence in their movement. The good news? You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership—just some creativity and everyday household items!
In this post, I’ll share practical, expert-approved tips to encourage gross motor development at home, along with fun activities tailored for different age groups.
What Are Gross Motor Skills?
Gross motor skills involve the large muscles of the arms, legs, and core that help children perform whole-body movements. These skills are crucial for:
- Balance and coordination (standing on one foot, hopping)
- Strength and endurance (climbing, carrying objects)
- Spatial awareness (navigating around obstacles)
- Confidence in physical play (running, jumping, sports)
Delays in gross motor development can impact a child’s ability to keep up with peers, participate in sports, or even sit comfortably in class. The earlier we support these skills, the better!
How to Encourage Gross Motor Skills at Home (By Age Group)
Babies (0-12 Months)
The first year is all about building head control, rolling, sitting, crawling, and standing. Here’s how to help:
- Tummy Time (From Birth)
- Place your baby on their tummy for short periods (2-3 minutes at a time) while awake and supervised.
- Use a rolled-up towel under their chest for support if they struggle.
- Encourage reaching for toys to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
- Supported Sitting (Around 6 Months)
- Use pillows or a Boppy pillow to help them sit upright.
- Place toys just out of reach to encourage leaning and balance.
- Crawling Practice (8-10 Months)
- Create obstacle courses with cushions and tunnels.
- Get down on the floor and crawl with them—kids love to mimic!
Toddlers (1-3 Years)
This stage is all about walking, climbing, throwing, and kicking. Make movement fun!
- Push and Pull Toys
- Wagons, toy lawn mowers, or even a cardboard box with a rope can help with balance.
- Obstacle Courses
- Use couch cushions, hula hoops, and painter’s tape (to make lines to walk on).
- Encourage stepping over, crawling under, and jumping off low surfaces.
- Ball Play
- Rolling, kicking, and throwing soft balls improves coordination.
Preschoolers (3-5 Years)
Now we’re working on running, jumping, hopping, and more complex movements.
- Animal Walks
- “Walk like a bear” (hands and feet), “hop like a frog,” or “slither like a snake.”
- Balance Challenges
- Walk on a taped line, stand on one foot, or try a balance board.
- Outdoor Play
- Swings, slides, climbing frames, and riding tricycles build strength and coordination.
School-Age Kids (5+ Years)
At this stage, kids refine skills for sports, dance, and active play.
- Jump Rope & Hopscotch – Great for rhythm and endurance.
- Yoga & Stretching – Improves flexibility and body awareness.
- Bike Riding – Start with training wheels, then transition to two wheels.
Everyday Opportunities for Gross Motor Development
You don’t need structured playtime—daily routines can be movement-rich!
- Carrying Groceries – Let kids help with light bags to build arm strength.
- Dancing – Turn on music and have a family dance party!
- Stair Climbing – Practice stepping up and down (with supervision).
- Household Chores – Sweeping, wiping tables, and putting toys away all involve movement.
When to Seek Help from a Paediatric Physio
While every child develops at their own pace, consult a professional if your child:
- Avoids physical play compared to peers
- Falls frequently or seems unusually clumsy
- Struggles with age-appropriate skills (e.g., not walking by 18 months)
- Complains of pain during movement
Early intervention can make a huge difference in confidence and ability!
Final Thoughts
Encouraging gross motor skills doesn’t have to be complicated—just keep it fun, engaging, and part of daily life. Whether it’s crawling through a homemade fort, jumping in puddles, or racing to the mailbox, movement is how kids learn about their bodies and the world around them.
As a paediatric physio, my best advice? Get down on the floor, play with your child, and celebrate every little milestone. Their future active self will thank you!
What’s your child’s favourite way to move? Share in the comments!