Gross Motor Development Activities For Two Year Olds
Your
child will have grown and developed fast during their first two years. They will probably be starting to explore the world more independently and doing more things for themselves. Gross motor development involves the larger, stronger muscle groups of the body. In early childhood, it is the development of these muscles that enable the baby to hold his/her head up, sit, crawl and eventually walk, run and skip. Here are few activities that can help with the development of their gross motor skills;
Bear Walk
To improve their coordination and balance you could show your child the “bear walk” by walking on hands and feet, keeping your legs and arms straight. Or try the “rabbit hop” by crouching down and then jumping forward.
Actions
Action is an important part of a child’s life. Play a game with a ball where you give directions and your child does the actions, such as “Roll the ball.” Kick, throw, push, bounce, and catch are other good actions. Take turns giving the directions.
Copy Me
A copying activity to help your child with physical development, concentration and following instructions.
Improve Listening Skills
Improve listening skills by playing both slow and fast music. Songs with speed changes are great. Show your child how to move fast or slow with the music.
Making Achievements Fun
Target Toss
Play target toss with a large bucket or box and bean bags or balls. Help your child count how many she gets in the target. A ball of string or rolled up socks also work well for an indoor target game.
Firstly remember that each child will develop at their own pace.
If your child attends nursery or a registered childminder, talk to them about your worries – they will be able to work with you to build your child’s skills and advise on any next steps needed.
If you are worried you can contact our Just One Number team on the details below to talk through your concerns.
Who Can Help?
You can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you still have concerns about your child's communication, a member of our 0-19 team is able to complete an assessment of your child and refer to other services as needed, including speech and language therapy or hearing assessment.
