Summer Activities to Improve Gross Motor Skills

Hayley Hugg,

DPT

As the long, sunny days of summer wain, it's still the perfect time to get your kids outside and moving. Not only is physical activity essential for overall health, but it's also a great way to improve gross motor skills in young children. These skills—like running, jumping, and climbing—are crucial for your child's development and play a significant role in their physical and social growth.

Our philosophy at Prairie Grit is Playing with a Purpose. Just because we call it “Therapy” doesn’t mean it has to feel like treatment. It’s kind of the same thing at home. Just because you’re supporting your child’s development doesn’t mean it needs to feel like homework, in fact, it should almost always be play. So, let’s make the rest of this summer the summer of play (and development). If you lack inspiration on what that looks like or what to do, no worries, here are some fun and engaging summer activities to boost your child's gross motor skills.

1. Obstacle Courses

Set up a backyard obstacle course to encourage a variety of movements. Use cones, hula hoops, and pool noodles to create different challenges. Here’s how to set up a simple course:

• Crawl under tables or through tunnels (use a large cardboard box if you don’t have a tunnel).

• Jump over pool noodles or small barriers.

• Balance on a beam (a piece of wood or a taped line on the ground works well).

• Throw balls into baskets at different distances, underhand and overhand.

This activity not only enhances motor skills but also improves coordination and problem-solving abilities.

2. Water Play

Water activities are not only fun but also excellent for developing gross motor skills. Try these ideas:

• Water Balloon Toss: Improve hand-eye coordination and arm strength by having a fun water balloon toss.

• Sprinkler Fun: Running through a sprinkler is a great way to get your child moving and laughing. You can also turn it into a game by having them jump over the sprinkler or do a specific movement like bear walking, skipping, hopping on one foot, etc. every time they pass through.

• Pool Play: If you have access to a pool, encourage activities like swimming, kicking, and floating. These actions build muscle strength and coordination.

3. Nature Walks and Hikes

Exploring nature trails and parks is an excellent way to get kids moving. Encourage them to:

• Climb rocks and hills to build leg and arm strength.

• Hop over logs and streams to improve balance and coordination.

• Collect leaves, stones, and other natural items to carry, which can enhance hand strength and dexterity.

4. Bike Riding

Teaching your child to ride a bike can be a fun summer goal. It not only improves balance and coordination but also builds leg muscles. Start with a tricycle or balance bike for younger children and gradually move to a pedal bike as they gain confidence.

5. Playground Adventures

Make regular trips to the local playground. Activities like climbing on jungle gyms, swinging, and sliding are fantastic for developing upper and lower body strength, balance, and coordination. Plus, playing with other children can enhance social skills and teamwork.

6. Dance Parties

Host a family dance party in your living room or backyard. Put on some lively music and encourage your child to move to the beat. Dancing is excellent for improving coordination, rhythm, and overall motor skills.

7. Sports and Games

Introduce your child to simple sports like soccer, tag, or catch. These activities not only improve gross motor skills but also teach important lessons about teamwork and sportsmanship.

8. Chalk Games

Use sidewalk chalk to draw hopscotch patterns, balance beams, or obstacle courses on your driveway or sidewalk. These activities encourage jumping, balancing, and creative movement.

Seize the summer and make the most of our short window of outside play. Summer is a wonderful time to focus on your child’s physical development while having a blast together. By incorporating these activities into your routine, you’ll help your child improve their gross motor skills and create lasting memories. Enjoy the sunshine and happy playing (and developing, together.)

Miss Hayley is a Physical Therapist at Prairie Grit Therapy. She is devoted to helping children and their families achieve their goals of improving strength, functional mobility, and increasing independence in a fun and engaging way. Hayley has experience working with patients of all ages with orthopedic, neurologic, and genetic disorders. She has advanced training in treating infants with atypical development. Hayley’s professional interests include gross motor development, genetic disorders, neuromuscular conditions, and orthopedic issues.