Tiny Movers: 6 Toys That Boost Your Toddler’s Gross Motor Skills
Do you have a toddler who’s always on the move? If the answer is yes, then you’ve probably entered the exciting phase where their physical development is taking off. From those first independent steps to mastering the art of climbing (maybe even onto the kitchen counter!), they’re rapidly refining their gross motor skills.
These are crucial skills that involve big movements like walking, running, jumping, and climbing—all the things that seem to tire you out while they energise your little one. At this stage, it’s a good idea to introduce some toys that support their development. Consider these six toys that can help boost your toddler’s motor skills as they play.
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Scooter
A scooter is one of the best toys to help your little one develop and improve gross motor skills. It encourages balance, coordination, and strength while giving them a fun way to move around. Riding a scooter requires using both sides of the body, which helps with overall motor development. Plus, it builds confidence as your child learns to control their movements and navigate their surroundings.
For an active toddler 3 wheel scooter is a great choice, especially if they’re still working on their balance. The extra stability makes it easier for them to push off and glide without toppling over. Many three-wheel scooters have a lean-to-steer function, which helps kids learn how to shift their weight while turning. This improves coordination and body awareness—two key elements of gross motor development.
Choosing the right 3 wheel scooter can enhance your toddler’s enjoyment. Look for one in bright, fun colours that grab their attention. LED flashing wheels add an extra layer of excitement, especially when riding outside. A wider reinforced deck provides more stability, making it easier for little feet to stay secure.
Adding accessories can make the toddler 3 wheel scooter even more exciting. A small basket with their favourite character can encourage them to take their toys along for the ride. This makes the experience more interactive and fun, keeping them engaged for longer. Whether strolling around the park or going to a friend’s house, your little one will be happy to show off their fun vehicle.
However, safety comes first. So, to make scooting safe and enjoyable, choose a smooth, open space for your toddler to practice like the park or backyard. You should also encourage them to start with slow pushes before working up to longer glides. And make sure your toddler is always wearing a helmet to keep them protected—bonus points if it matches the colour of their scooter!
Mini Trampoline
If your toddler is jumping, leaping, and skipping everywhere, a mini trampoline is a great way to support their development. Choose one with handles or, ideally, netting around the edges for extra safety.
Trampolines help develop balance, coordination, and spatial awareness while supporting proprioception – helping your little one understand where their body is in space. For instance, holding onto the handle while jumping teaches control and stability. It’s also a bonus if you get a trampoline with colours, numbers, or shapes on the surface to combine physical activity with cognitive skill-building.
Crawling Toy
Crawling is one of the first big milestones for your toddler, and even after they start walking, it’s still a helpful skill. A crawl-through tunnel can be a great way to boost their coordination and balance. These toys encourage four-point crawling, which engages both sides of the body and helps with movement skills.
They’re perfect for indoor or outdoor play, especially on rainy days. Plus, when you’re done, most tunnels collapse flat for easy storage under a chair or couch. It’s a fun, simple way to support your toddler’s development and keep them active, no matter the weather!
Push Wagon or Cart
A push wagon or cart is a fantastic toy that supports your toddler’s gross motor skills, especially when they’re ready to start walking with some help. These toys encourage movement, balance, and coordination as your little one pushes or pulls the cart around.
Look for wagons with sturdy handles that are the right height for your toddler to grip comfortably. It’s best to choose one with four wheels for stability and make sure it’s lightweight so your child can move it around easily. Some even come with fun extras like shapes or animals to keep them entertained while building strength and balance!
Climbing Structure
A climbing structure is another awesome toy that allows your toddler to work on their gross motor skills. A simple wooden climber is perfect for letting your little one practice balance and coordination as they climb up and over it.
Plus, it’s great for building self-confidence as they tackle new challenges. Many of these climbers fold up for easy storage, and some even come with a double-sided ramp for sliding or more climbing fun. Just don’t forget to place it over a padded playmat so your toddler has a soft spot to land on.
Hand Puppets
These puppets are a fun and engaging way to help your toddler with fine and gross motor skills. While they’re great for improving dexterity as your child manipulates the puppet, toddlers often love to run around, fly their characters through the air, and tell exciting stories. These are all activities that require strong gross motor skills.
Hand puppets offer the best of both worlds, combining dexterity with physical play. They also help your child develop social skills and creativity as they dive into the magic of pretend play. Whether they choose to take on the role of a sheep, puppy or cat, a hand puppet is a win-win for your little one’s growth and imagination!
