Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Gross Motor Skills

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

Gross Motor Skills

Jeanette Loftus

Gross motor skills are the abilities that are required for big body movements such as walking, running, jumping, and throwing. These skills are very important for a child's development, play with their friends and participate in different physical activities.

Regular participation in gross motor activities can help a child maintain a healthy weight, reduces the risk of obesity and strengthens muscles and bones. Participating in gross motor activities can help a child interact with their peers, build relationships and develop self-confidence.

Gross motor Activities

Obstacle course using hula hoops, cushions, and what you have available. This activity encourages children to climb, crawl, balance, and jump, improving their gross motor skills.

Simon Says is a common game that encourages children to follow instructions, improve their listening skills, and perform various gross motor movements such as hopping, skipping, and spinning.

Exploring parks or nature trails help children practice walking, running, and climbing while discovering the nature around them.

Sensory Processing Disorder and Gross Motor Skills

Children with sensory processing disorder may have difficulties with gross motor activities due to their sensitivity to movement, touch, or vestibular input. You can always change and adjust gross motor activities to accommodate your child's sensory needs. Speak to your child's occupational therapist to create an sensory diet plan to address your child's gross motor challenges.

Gross motor skills are the foundation of movement. Everything from crawling and walking to running and jumping. They're so important for physical development and coordination.

There are so many benefits to participating in gross motor activities, they can be a lot of fun too! Here's a list to get you and your little ones moving:

For Little Kiddos:

Build a tunnel using blankets, pillow and furniture. Encourage your child to crawl through.

Set up a simple obstacle course using pillows, toys and other household items. Have them climb over, jump over and crawl through different stations you set up in the obstacle course.

Chasing bubbles encourages your child to run, jump and reach.

Put on some music and dance! Dancing can help your child with balance, coordination and rhythm.

Rolling, kicking and throwing a ball develops hand-eye coordination, strength and your child will learn throwing skills too.

For the Preschoolers and Beyond:

Hula hooping can improve your child's balance, coordination and their core strength.

Jumping rope improves coordination and your child's jumping skills too.

A classic game like tag or red light/green light promote running and quick thinking.

Scooters and bikes encourage balance, coordination and motor planning.

Playing sports like soccer, basketball or tennis involve running, jumping, throwing which encourage gross motor exercises.

Kids are more likely to stay engaged in gross motor activities if they are having fun. Use games to keep them motivated. Offer a variety of gross motor activities to keep things interesting for your child and challenge different skills. Start with simple activities and gradually progress to more challenging ones.

Use a lot of positive reinforcement and praise for your child's effort no matter what skill level. Show your child that physical activity is enjoyable by participating in the gross motor activity with them.

Gross motor skills are developed over time through consistent practice. By providing opportunities for movement and play, you can help your children build a strong foundation for physical and cognitive development. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab a ball, and get moving!