Swinging your arms. Reaching for toys. Taking a ride across the living room floor in a laundry basket boat. Movement is vital in helping little ones to grow and learn.
The pediatric physical therapists at teli have expertise in motor skills and movement concerns.
When babies and toddlers move, they strengthen muscles. This gross motor skill development in the large muscles leads to small muscle development (fine motor skills). Moving builds cardiovascular health and a foundation for more complex motor skills, balance, and coordination.
While movement is important for physical health, it’s equally important for mental and emotional health. Movement is a great tool to keep a child’s attention. It stimulates brain development by engaging their senses and encouraging social interactions and independence.
When babies and toddlers are moving, they are learning by exploring their world. You can find plenty of ways to get your child moving as you play together. Try these activities at home:
- Join baby on the floor for tummy time.
- Help them shake toys that make noise.
- Encourage your toddler to play games like hide and seek with a favorite toy.
- Play run and chase.
- Turn on some music and have a dance party.
- Blow bubbles for them to pop.
Be creative! Lots of household items can be toys, including that laundry basket, pots and pans, a sturdy box, or pillows and cushions on the floor.
If you are looking for fun learning activities for your child that will get your family moving, visit the early intervention experts at teli today.
Did you know? teli is now an affiliate of The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh. Read more here.