Gross Motor Games: Coordination + Safety + Endurance

Toddlers learn through action + language.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

- Soft, child-sized balls (2-3)

- A laundry basket or large bin

- Assorted scarves or ribbons

- A sturdy chair or small stool

- Pictures of families (drawn or printed)

- Soft floor mats or a carpeted area

- Music player and upbeat, family-friendly music

Learning Objectives

- Children will demonstrate improved hand-eye coordination by kicking and throwing soft balls.

- Children will practise balance and core strength by climbing onto and off a low stool.

- Children will engage in rhythmic movements to music, mimicking family dance.

- Children will follow simple directions given during games related to home and family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather children on the floor mats. Show them pictures of different families, pointing out how family members often play together at home.

2. Introduce the soft balls. Demonstrate gently kicking the ball and then rolling it. Invite children to try kicking and rolling the balls, naming them "family balls."

3. Place the laundry basket a short distance away. Show children how to gently toss the balls into the basket, calling it the "family toy bin." Encourage them to put their "family balls" away.

4. Put on some upbeat music. Encourage children to dance and move their bodies like they might dance with their families at home. Offer scarves or ribbons to enhance their movements.

5. Introduce the sturdy chair or stool. Model carefully climbing up and then safely stepping down. Cheer for each child as they try, emphasizing safe stepping "like we do at home."

6. Clap hands to the music and encourage children to clap too, perhaps like they clap for a family member who has done something good.

7. Play a simple game of "follow the leader," mimicking simple actions like stomping feet (to show strong family members!) or reaching for the sky (like reaching for a hug from a family member).

8. Conclude by having children gather their "family balls" and sit together, perhaps in a circle, talking about their favourite games to play with their own families.

Educator Tip

Ensure the play area is free of hazards. For safety, always supervise closely during climbing activities and offer gentle hand-holding when needed. Encourage children to name family members they might play these games with at home, fostering a connection between home and school experiences.

Assessment

Observe children's engagement with the different activities. Note their attempts at kicking and throwing balls, their ability to balance while climbing, and their participation in dancing and following movement directions. Look for instances where they connect the play to their own family experiences.

Educator tip

Use choice questions; keep groups small; ensure safe space.

Assessment

Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observe participation, movement attempts.

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