Skill Building in Your Toddler

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Before your child turns two, he will have mastered a dazzling number of skills.  He will be able to run around the house versus only being able to crawl on his hands and knees at age one.  He will be able to pickup blocks, stack them and knock them down, all under control.  Toys are crucial for your child’s motor skill development.

To aide your child in their development process, consider doing some of the things below.

Buy your child toys that they are able to ride on (toy horses with wheels, scooters, trikes).  These types of toys will help your child develop the critical muscles needed in their legs and improve their balance for walking.  It also lets your toddler see the world from a whole new perspective and gives them freedom of mobility.

Once your toddler has started to walk, purchase them a pushcart of some kind.  It doesn’t matter what kind it is, whether it be a lawnmower, vacuum cleaner, or a toy truck.  These toys not only let your child imagine they are helping around the house, but they help increase your child’s balance and stability for walking.  Be sure the toy you choose has a low center of gravity to help keep your child on his feet.

A homemade balance beam is also beneficial to your toddler.  It doesn’t need to be fancy, and at first shouldn’t even be off the ground.  A 2×6 board would do just fine if your husband happens to have any handy.  When your child can negotiate the board on the ground, start to raise it off the ground in small increments.  Be sure to place some padding around incase your little one falls off while crossing.

By the time your child is approaching three years of age, buy him/her a large blown up ball.  Your child will attempt to kick the ball, but won’t quite be able to yet.  Instead, he/she will walk into the ball attempting to move it.

Games and outdoor activities are vital in your child’s balance and walking development.  Take your child outdoors and let them ride toys up and down your driveway.  Not only is the fresh air good for him, but he will increase strength in his legs which is much needed for later development.

All of the methods mentioned above are great ways to ensure that your child will be making the most out of their development years.  Great balance is essential for a thriving childhood.

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