Younger children need stimulation to encourage movement of the neck, chest, arms and torso in order to establish the foundation for the development and strengthening of their legs. Play is the primary source of physical development, so children need ample time and space for moving, climbing, crawling, running and jumping. Often, delayed physical development is a result of too little playtime and can be remedied with fun and games. However, seek the advice of a pediatrician if you have concerns about your child's large motor development.
Step 1
Give babies time to play on their tummies. Your infant develops his first gross motor skills by gaining strength in his upper body. To help your baby gain strength and control in his neck, chest and arms, let him play on his tummy when he's feeling awake and playful. Encourage him to look up by getting down on the floor with him or placing a soft, colorful toy a few inches from his face.
Step 2
Introduce toys and activities that encourage reaching, crawling and movement. Infants and toddlers develop large motor skills by practicing movement and control of the trunk, torso, arms and legs. Roll a brightly colored ball during playtime, for example, to entice your young child to practice crawling or walking.
Step 3
Design an obstacle course for preschoolers and school-aged children. Incorporate challenges which require balance, crawling, climbing, rolling and running, which are all important components of gross motor development, according to Flinders University of Australia. Get creative with the obstacle course. For example, incorporate a chalk line or low balance beam, line up chairs to crawl under, use a rope ladder or playset for the climbing challenge, designate an area for the rolling portion and end with a race to the finish line.
Step 4
Use jump-rope activities to help children develop large motor skills. Even if your child isn't ready for individual jump-rope activities, she can increase her coordination and balance with group games. Play wiggle rope by assigning two children to hold the ends of a long jump rope, and instructing them to shake the rope to create a "wiggling, snake-like effect," suggests Scholastic. Invite the other children to form a line and take turns trying to jump over the rope without touching it. If a child touches the rope, he takes one of the ends and the game continues.
Step 5
Play games with your child that require quick-thinking, hand-eye coordination and movement response. Kickball, dodgeball or even a simple game of catch gets kids moving and using their large motor muscles. According to Flinders University, physical performance requires a child "to form judgments regarding various kinds of incoming data and respond quickly with appropriate and accurate muscle movements." Children need to practice and master movement and response in order to develop the skills they need for healthy physical development.
Things You'll Need
- Colorful, age-appropriate toys
- Various sizes of balls
- Chalk
- Climbing structures
- Long jump rope
