Motor Development
If your child isn't walking yet, he will soon start. As his strength, coordination and balance improves, he may be able walk up stairs one foot at a time and balance on one foot (24-30 months). He may even be able to walk backwards. Encourage his growing physical skills by exploring his 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 he may be able to dress himself and pedal a tricycle. He 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 him as he climbs. Provide many different opportunities for your active child to practice more advanced skills, such as climbing at the playground or riding his tricycle around the neighbourhood.
Your toddler's fine motor skills will show great improvement in the coming months. He 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 his fingers. Encourage scribbling and drawing in order to promote eye-hand coordination and visual attention.
Furthermore, he 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 Toddler Development
Your toddler's physical capacity is increasing at a rapid rate. Take advantage of everyday tasks and events to help him learn and develop, all the while providing him with the best nutrition to nourish his milestone achievements. 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 he learns to walk, then take him into the yard or on the beach.
- Investigate the stairs, but only when you can be there to ensure his safety. Otherwise, use a baby gate to block the way.
- Explore the neighbourhood. Go for a walk with his pull toy.
- Play outside. Draw with sidewalk chalk or play in the sandbox.
- Chase bubbles or engage in a game of tag.
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 him 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 his optimal overall development in the long term.
