Gross Motor Skills for Toddlers

Between the ages of two and three, children experience major leaps in their gross motor development. They learn to run, jump, climb, and balance as they explore the world around them.

At Children’s Campus of Greenville, our 5-star preschool recognizes the importance of active play and a movement-rich environment for toddlers. Join us as we explore ways to help children develop their gross motor skills so they can grow, move, and thrive.

What Are Gross Motor Skills?

gross motor skills greenville nc preschool

Gross motor skills are the abilities that involve large muscle groups used for whole-body movement. These skills allow toddlers to perform everyday physical activities like walking, running, jumping, climbing, and throwing. They also include coordination tasks such as balancing on one foot or navigating stairs.

Gross Motor Skills vs Fine Motor Skills

Gross motor skills involve the use of large muscle groups to perform whole-body movements, whereas fine motor skills focus on smaller muscle groups—especially in the hands and fingers. Fine motor skills are used for tasks like grasping crayons, buttoning clothes, or stacking blocks. Both skill sets are essential for a toddler’s overall development and often build on one another.

Why Gross Motor Development Matter in Toddler Development

Gross motor development plays a vital role in a toddler’s overall growth and long-term well-being. Developing gross motor skills is essential for physical strength and control but also for building independence. They set the stage for more complex skills like playing sports or participating in group games as children grow.

Here’s why gross motor skills are so important during the early years of a child’s life.

Builds Physical Strength and Coordination

Gross motor activities help children strengthen their core muscles, improve posture, and develop balance. These skills support everyday tasks like walking, climbing, and later, more advanced movements like riding a bike or participating in sports.

Supports Fine Motor Development

Strong gross motor skills create the stability children need to refine smaller movements. For example, being able to sit upright and control their trunk allows toddlers to better use their hands for coloring, feeding themselves, or building with blocks.

Encourages Social Interaction and Play

Many gross motor activities—like running, playing ball, or dancing—are done in group settings. These shared experiences help children learn teamwork, take turns, and develop communication skills.

Enhances Cognitive Growth

Movement is closely linked to cognitive development. Activities like crawling through tunnels or navigating obstacle courses challenge children to think, problem-solve, and make decisions as they move their bodies.

Promotes Independence and Confidence

As toddlers master new physical skills, they become more independent and willing to try new things. This sense of accomplishment boosts their confidence and encourages ongoing learning.

Key Gross Motor Milestones for Ages 2–3

Between the ages of 2 and 3, toddlers make significant progress in gross motor development. While every child develops at their own pace, there are general milestones that most children reach during this time.

Age 2: Gaining Confidence in Movement

Two year olds begin to move more purposefully and with increased balance and coordination. While still working on stability, they become more curious and bold in their physical activities.

Here are the expected movements for toddlers around the two-year mark:

Walking and Running: Most 2-year-olds can walk confidently and begin running, though they may still fall often.
Stairs: They may walk up and down stairs with support, often placing both feet on each step.
Kicking and Throwing: Basic kicking and throwing motions begin to develop, such as kicking a ball forward or tossing a small object.
Climbing: Children at this age love to climb—on furniture, low playground structures, or steps—with growing confidence.

Age 3: Improving Balance and Coordination

Three year olds typically become more stable on their feet and can handle more complex movements. This is when coordination begins to noticeably improve.

Look for the following types of movements around the age of three:

Jumping: Many 3-year-olds can jump in place and begin jumping off low steps or curbs with both feet.
Pedaling: Some are able to pedal a tricycle or ride-on toy, showing better leg coordination.
Catching and Kicking: They may start catching large balls with both hands and can kick more accurately.
Walking Skills: Balance improves enough to allow them to walk backward, walk in a straight line, or even walk on tiptoes briefly.

Variations in Development Are Normal

It’s important to remember that not all toddlers develop at exactly the same pace. Some children may master certain skills earlier or later than others. What’s most important is steady progress and interest in movement. Environments that encourage active play, like Children’s Campus of Greenville, can help foster healthy physical growth during these formative years.

Activities That Encourage Toddler Gross Motor Skills

Toddlers need plenty of opportunities to move, explore, and challenge their growing bodies. Simple, everyday activities can go a long way in helping pre-k aged children develop strong gross motor skills.

Outdoor Play

Outdoor environments provide the perfect setting for toddlers to stretch their legs and build muscle.

Try these outdoor activities to encourage movement for your toddler:

Running and Chasing Games: Activities like tag or follow-the-leader help with speed, balance, and coordination.
Climbing Structures: Playgrounds offer safe equipment for climbing, sliding, and balancing.
Nature Walks: Walking over uneven ground, stepping over logs, and balancing on rocks helps toddlers learn to adapt their movements.
Ball Play: Kicking, throwing, and rolling large balls builds hand-eye coordination and leg strength.

Indoor Activities

When weather keeps you inside, there are still plenty of ways to encourage active movement.

Encourage gross motor skill development with these activities:

Dance and Music Time: Dancing to music or playing movement games like “Freeze Dance” helps children practice control and rhythm.
Mini Obstacle Courses: Set up tunnels, pillows, or boxes for your toddler to crawl through, climb over, or jump around.
Animal Imitation Games: Encourage kids to hop like a bunny, waddle like a duck, or stomp like an elephant to engage large muscle groups.
Push and Pull Toys: Toys that require pushing or pulling across the floor help strengthen large muscle groups and improve walking stability.

Incorporating Movement Into Daily Routines

Even everyday tasks can support gross motor development, including:

Getting Dressed: Encouraging your toddler to put on socks, pants, or shoes helps with balance, coordination, and body awareness.
Helping Carry Groceries: Toddlers can carry light grocery bags or small items from the car to the house, engaging muscles and improving balance.
Tidying Up Toys: Picking up and placing toys in bins or on shelves involves squatting, reaching, and lifting.
Setting the Table: Handing out napkins, utensils, or unbreakable plates encourages movement and purposeful walking.

At Children’s Campus of Greenville, our preschool programs include many of these gross motor activities for both indoor and outdoor play. By combining structured movement with free play, we give toddlers the tools they need to grow strong, stay active, and enjoy physical learning.

Common Signs of Gross Motor Delays

While toddlers develop gross motor skills at their own pace, there are certain signs that may indicate a delay in physical development including:

Not walking by 18 months
Frequent falling or poor balance
Difficulty climbing or jumping by age 3
Avoidance of active play
Muscle weakness or stiffness

What to Do if You Have Concerns

If you notice any of these signs, start by discussing them with your child’s pediatrician. Early intervention services can provide evaluations and support to help children meet important milestones.

Fostering Gross Motor Skills at Children’s Campus of Greenville

At Children’s Campus of Greenville, we understand that gross motor skills are more than just movement—they’re essential building blocks for learning, confidence, and independence. If you’re looking for a nurturing place that supports your child’s physical and developmental growth, we invite you to explore our programs and schedule a visit today.

To learn more or discuss our preschool enrollment opportunities, contact us at 252-756-8200 or fill out our online contact form to get started.

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