Your child has been walking and is now working to further develop their motor skills. As their strength, coordination and balance improve, they may be able walk up stairs and balance on one foot (24-30 months). They may even be able to walk backwards. Encourage their growing physical skills by exploring their world: go for a walk around the neighbourhood and talk about what you see. Visit the playground. Practice hopping from one spot to another: pretend you are frogs hopping from one lily pad to another, or place hula hoops on the floor and try to land in the middle of each one.
Between 30 to 36 months, your child’s physical abilities will have progressed such that they may be able to dress themselves and pedal a tricycle. When walking on stairs, they may be learning to alternate feet while climbing up or going down the stairs. They may become interested in climbing. Keep in mind that climbing up is much easier than coming back down, so stay close and keep an eye on them as they climb. Provide many different opportunities for your active child to practice more advanced skills, such as climbing at the playground or riding their tricycle around the neighbourhood.
Your toddler's fine motor skills will show great improvement in the coming months. They may be a competent scribbler who is now ready to draw a circle or a vertical line (30 months), possibly with a crayon or pencil held between their fingers. Encourage scribbling and drawing in order to promote hand-eye coordination and visual attention.
Furthermore, they may be able to turn a knob or unscrew a cap, which means that you should step up your childproofing efforts at home so as to guard against any potential hazards in light of your child’s newfound abilities.
Activities to Stimulate Motor Development in Toddlers 24 Months and Older
Your toddler's physical capacity is increasing at a rapid rate. Be sure to match their dietary needs with appropriate amounts of essential nutrients that fuel their milestone accomplishments. Here are some ideal activities to foster healthy motor development:
Gross Motor (Large Muscle) Activities
- Diversify your toddler's terrain: start off on a smooth, level surface until they learn to walk, then take them into the yard or on the beach.
- Investigate the stairs, but only when you can be there to ensure their safety. Otherwise, use a baby gate to block the way.
- Explore the neighbourhood. Go for a walk with their pull toy.
- Play outside. Draw with sidewalk chalk or play in the sandbox.
- Chase bubbles or engage in a game of tag.
- Practice riding a tricycle or kicking a soccer ball.
Fine Motor (Small Muscle) Activities
- String large beads onto a string.
- Run small cars on a track.
- Fold clothes together.
- Roll and pinch modelling clay.
- Read together. Let them hold the book and turn the pages when you're ready.
- Push buttons on toys like play phones, remotes and cash registers.
- Play outside. Draw with sidewalk chalk or play in the sandbox.
Why Is Nutrition Important?
Your toddler requires adequate amounts of calories and nutrients in order to have enough energy to explore, discover and learn. Sound nutrition is key to their optimal overall development in the long term.