Movement Baby Activities & Games

Did you know that from birth, your baby is already learning to walk?

Each muscle he moves is a baby step towards his first step.

Typically, a baby can stand alone by 12 months and has started to walk between 12 to 14 months. By a year and a half, a toddler can kick a ball and by two years of age, he can throw a ball overhand.

Here are some baby activities that will encourage your child's motor development. They are arranged in age groups. Depending on individual abilities, activities listed for a younger or older age group may be enjoyed.

Movement Activities from Birth to 3 Months

Movement Activities from 3 to 6 Months

Movement Activities from 6 to 9 Months (coming soon)

Movement Activities from 9 to 12 Months (coming soon)

Tips and Suggestions when Encouraging your Baby's Motor Development

Birth to 12 months

• Make sure your baby's clothing and bedding are loose enough so arms and legs can move freely.
• Play gentle exercise games. Your baby will enjoy gentle arm and leg movement.
• When your baby lies on its back, grasp the hands and pull gently to a sitting position.
• To encourage your baby to crawl, place a favorite toy just out of reach.
• Provide firm, stable objects on which your baby can pull up to a standing position.

One - to 3-year-olds

• Provide pull toys that make noise. Encourage your child to walk forward and backward while pulling the toy.
• Help your child walk up and down stairs.
• Help your child jump off the first or second step.
• Help your child jump over a small object such as a book.
• Provide opportunity for your child to climb up and through things. If there is a playground with appropriate equipment nearby, it would be the perfect place.
• Make a sandbox (an old tire will do). Simple tools like a stick or old spoon for digging and assorted containers for pouring or packing sand give hours of enjoyment.
• Provide both large and small balls for throwing and kicking.
• Provide a wagon for pulling and carrying objects from place to place.