Here are some more options I love!
- Large Blocks – Building with really large blocks encourages children to move around and reach up high, and also allows them to build paths or obstacle courses if they want to. (A more expensive, but really nice option).
- Obstacle Course – You can get a tunnel or just use things around the house to make an obstacle course. Set one up for your child the first time, and then encourage him to make his own next time.
- Walking the Line – Walking the line is a traditional control of movement game used in Montessori 3-6 classrooms. There is a line on the floor (often made with electrical tape, often in an ellipse shape) and children practice carefully walking on it, either as a group or individually. This is often done to music. This can be fun with older toddlers too, if they’re interested.
- Jump Boxes – Another fun one that requires nothing other than electrical tape and encourages coordination and controlled movement.
- Climbing Stairs – We have a one story house, but my son loves climbing stairs whenever we encounter them. If you have stairs at home, climbing up and down can be a great way for young toddlers to practice their new skills.
All of these activities can be done independently once you show your toddler how. This is key so that he’ll have an appropriate outlet he can choose himself when he needs to move big.
If you’re interested in more ways to encourage movement in young children, I highly recommend the book Movement Matters. I saw the author speak at a national Montessori conference and bought it immediately. It’s written for teachers, but has many activities that would be great at home too.
How do you encourage appropriate gross motor in your home? I would love any tips!
Originally published on Montesori-ish Mom. Christina is a Montessori teacher, wife, and mum to one pretty awesome little boy, living in Austin, Texas. She writes about all things motherhood, Montessori, and everyday life.
