Bodies learn through variety
Movement & Motor Skills
Mix micro-movements, outdoor adventures, and mindful rest so muscles, joints, and brains integrate new skills smoothly.
Quick Wins
Daily anchors for familiesMovement Menu
Post three options (jump rope, obstacle line, yoga cards) and let kids choose before screens.
Commercial Break Bursts
Use 60-second animal walks or wall sits between show segments.
Morning Mobility
Start the day with shoulder rolls, ankle circles, and deep breaths to wake the nervous system.
Focus Areas
Blend routines, play, and reflection
Gross Motor Play
Big muscle groups need resistance, speed, and balance practice.
- •Set up pillow paths, couch-cushion climbs, or hallway hurdles.
- •Rotate sports balls, jump ropes, and scooters for cross-training.
- •Encourage barefoot play on safe surfaces to strengthen arches.
Fine Motor & Core
Stable cores support writing, feeding, and self-help skills.
- •Use clothespins, tweezers, and LEGOs for finger strength.
- •Practice “tummy writing” while lying on the floor to activate shoulders.
- •Incorporate animal crawls or planks to build endurance.
Sensory Regulation
Movement helps children reset attention and emotions.
- •Offer heavy work (pushing laundry baskets, carrying groceries).
- •Add rhythmic input with swings, rocking chairs, or metronome apps.
- •Pair calming breaths with slow stretches after high-energy play.
Milestone Snapshots
Use these ranges to guide questions for well-child visits.
Infants & Toddlers
- ▹Rolls, crawls, pulls to stand, and cruises along furniture.
- ▹Throws soft balls with both hands and practices squats.
- ▹Uses hands and knees to climb onto low surfaces with supervision.
Preschoolers
- ▹Alternates feet on stairs and pedals a tricycle.
- ▹Balances on one foot for 5–7 seconds.
- ▹Cuts simple shapes and strings large beads.
School Age & Tweens
- ▹Mastery of skipping, galloping, jump rope, and coordinated ball skills.
- ▹Participates in organized sports or dance classes with rule understanding.
- ▹Shows body awareness in crowded spaces and responds to coaching cues.
Conversation Starters
Try these prompts in the car, at bedtime, or during snacks to keep dialogue open.
“How did your body feel after that activity—calm, pumped, wiggly?”
Builds interoception vocabulary.
“What skill are you practicing this week and how can I cheer you on?”
Focuses on effort and support.
“Where do you notice strength growing?”
Connects sensation with progress.
Resource Boosters
Pair guidance from your pediatrician with these supportive touchpoints.
Care Disclaimer
These tips support—not replace—professional medical advice. Contact your pediatric team whenever you notice sudden changes, delays, or health concerns. Emergency symptoms (breathing difficulty, severe pain, injury, or safety concerns) require immediate medical attention.