Gross Motor Skills
Why This Stage Matters
Gross motor skills are the foundation for movement, balance, and coordination. Strong core and large muscle groups support play, endurance, and even attention in school.
Key Developmental Milestones
EXPERT INSIGHT
“Gross motor play is a stepping stone to establish physical strength, coordination skills, proprioceptive awareness (body awareness) as well higher level skills including executive functioning, social skills and emotional regulation.”
PAULINE, OT
Find age-appropriate gifts that match your child's developmental stage
Find skill-appropriate gifts that match your child's developmental stage
Gross Motor Skills
Why This Skill Matters
Gross motor skills are the foundation for movement, balance, and coordination. Strong core and large muscle groups support play, endurance, and even attention in school.
Milestones
- 1 yr: Pulls to stand, walks with support
- 2 yrs: Walks independently, climbs, kicks ball
- 3 yrs: Jumps with both feet, pedals tricycle
- 4 yrs: Hops on one foot, catches a ball
- 5 yrs: Skips, gallops, balances on one foot
- 6–8 yrs: Masters bike riding, sports skills, endurance
EXPERT INSIGHT
“Gross motor play is a stepping stone to establish physical strength, coordination skills, proprioceptive awareness (body awareness) as well higher level skills including executive functioning, social skills and emotional regulation.”
PAULINE, OT
Gonge Riverstones Balance Pods
Recommended age:
3-6 years
Kids leap from pod to pod, pretending the floor is lava or a river. Each step is a fun, playful challenge!
What kids learn through play:
Navigating the stones strengthens balance and motor planning. Imaginative play boosts creativity and thinking on their feet.
Hape Walk-A-Long Wooden Puppy
Recommended age:
1-2 years
Toddlers light up as they pull their puppy behind them, as it wobbles and follows wherever they go. It’s the perfect walking buddy for new movers.
What kids learn through play:
Pulling the puppy helps kids practice balance, coordination, and walking skills. As they move and hear you narrate, connecting language and movement.
Little Tikes Cozy Coupe
Recommended age:
2-3 years
Whether they’re pushing with their feet or being pushed along, kids love the independence of driving their own little car—horn honking included.
What kids learn through play:
Pushing the coupe builds leg strength, balance, and coordination. Games like “stop and go” add opportunities to practice directions and regulation.
Mini Trampoline with Handle
Recommended age:
3-7 years
Kids bounce with big energy, holding on tight as they jump to the rhythm of music or their own excitement.
What kids learn through play:
Bouncing supports core strength, balance, and energy regulation. Pairing movement with songs or counting introduces rhythm, timing, and a fun way to practice self-control.
Step-A-Trail Backyard Foam Obstacle Course
Recommended age:
3-6 years
Kids love setting up their own course then jumping, crawling, and climbing through as fast (or silly) as they can.
What kids learn through play:
Obstacle courses build strength, endurance, and sequencing skills. Kids build leadership and creativity skills by designing the layout.
Find age-appropriate gifts that match your child's developmental stage
Find skills-appropriate gifts that match your child's developmental stage