Gross Motor Fun at Home: Simple Exercises for Preschoolers

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Physical Development
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Try These Today

Simple Obstacle Course

  • Start with 2–3 obstacles, then add more as skills improve.
  • Ideas: jump over pillows, walk around chairs, weave through pool noodles, crawl through tunnels (tables + chairs).

Ball Dribbling

  • Use a basketball or playground ball.
  • Dribble with one hand, then both hands.
  • Bounce the ball off a wall or along the floor.

Target Toss

  • Toss objects (balls, beanbags, stuffed animals) into baskets, taped shapes on the floor, or a target on the wall.

Twister or Twister Moves

  • Great for older preschoolers to challenge coordination and balance.

Simon Says

  • Incorporate left/right directions, jumping, hopping, squatting, or crawling to improve coordination.

Tightrope Balance Beam

  • Use a jump rope or masking tape line to practice walking heel-to-toe, sideways, backwards, or squatting to pick up objects.

Pillow or Cushion Jumping

  • Jump over pillows or stuffed animals with two feet, or one foot for advanced practice.

Big Shoe Walking

  • Walk around in shoes that are too big (slippers, boots, sneakers).
  • Fun and motivating for kids!

Ball Rolling Mazes

  • Roll a ball along a taped maze on the floor using hands, feet, or crawling.
  • Can also roll a ball up/down a wall while lying down or standing.

 

 

The OT Toolbox. “Gross Motor Coordination Home Exercise Program.” https://www.theottoolbox.com/gross-motor-coordination-home-exercise-program/

Tags:
Physical Development
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