Physical Movement

Physical movement is an important part of your toddler’s growth and wellbeing. During the toddler years, your child is learning how to move their body with more control, confidence, and coordination. 

At this stage, your toddler is building their gross motor skills. These are the big movements that use the arms, legs, and whole body. At the same time, they are also learning balance, coordination, and awareness of how their body moves in space. 

Movement is not just about physical health. It also supports your child’s thinking, learning, and social and emotional development. When your child moves and explores, they are learning about the world around them. 

Here are some ways physical movement develops during the toddler years: 

Gross motor skills 
Toddlers are learning to move in new and exciting ways. They may begin to walk, run, climb, push and pull toys, and try simple jumping or dancing. These movements help build strength, coordination, and confidence. 

Balance and coordination 
Your child is learning how to keep their balance and control their body. They may practice walking on uneven surfaces, climbing, or stepping over objects. These experiences help them understand how their body moves and how to stay safe. 

Fine motor skills 
Alongside big movements, toddlers are also developing small hand and finger movements. Activities like picking up small objects, turning pages, or using simple tools help build hand strength and coordination. 

Play and exploration 
Play is one of the most important ways toddlers learn. Through active play, your child explores their environment, builds confidence, and develops new skills. This may include playing at the park, exploring outdoors, or moving around at home. 

Outdoor experiences 
Time outdoors gives your child space to move freely and safely. Exploring nature, running on grass, climbing, and playing with natural elements like sand or water supports both physical development and a sense of connection to the world around them. Being outside can help your child feel calmer when they have big feelings. A change of scenery can also help. Outdoors, children can run, climb, play, and explore nature. Moving their bodies and spending time outside can help them feel better and more in control of their emotions. 

For some children, especially those born early or with medical or developmental challenges, physical movement skills may take longer to develop. Every child grows at their own pace, and gentle support can help build confidence over time. 

Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.

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