4 of The Best Toddler Activities to encourage large motor skills, fine motor skills & sensory play
As parents and caregivers, we constantly seek the best ways to support our toddlers' development. One crucial aspect is the role of toys in developing fine motor skills and large motor skills. (Disclaimer: The following blog post contains affiliate links which means I earn a small commission on each item sold)
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of choosing the right toys that foster these essential skills, helping our little ones grow stronger and smarter every day.
Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers. These skills are vital for tasks such as writing, buttoning clothes, and manipulating small objects. Some of the best toys to enhance fine motor skills include:
- Building blocks
- Puzzles
- Beads for threading
- Playdough and clay
Large Motor Skills
Large motor skills also known as gross motor skills, involve the use of larger muscle groups in the arms, legs, and torso. These skills are crucial for activities like walking, running, jumping, and climbing. Ideal toys for developing large motor skills include:
- Ride-on toys
- Balls for throwing and kicking
- Climbing structures
- Push and pull toys
Why are Fine Motor Skills Important?
1. Enhanced Hand-Eye Coordination:Toys that require precise hand movements, such as threading beads or stacking blocks, significantly improve hand-eye coordination, a crucial skill for many daily activities.
2. Cognitive Development: Manipulating small objects helps toddlers understand concepts like cause and effect, spatial relationships, and problem-solving. Toys like puzzles are excellent for boosting cognitive development.
3. Preparation for Writing: Strengthening the small muscles in the hands and fingers prepares toddlers for writing. Activities involving playdough or small building blocks are perfect for this purpose.
4. Increased Independence:Fine motor skill development enables toddlers to perform daily tasks independently, such as dressing themselves, eating with utensils, and brushing their teeth.
Why are Large Motor Skills Important?
1. Improved Physical Fitness: Active play with toys that build large motor skills helps toddlers develop strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness. Running, jumping, and climbing are excellent exercises for young children.
2. Better Balance and Coordination: Large motor activities enhance a toddler's balance and coordination. Riding a tricycle or playing catch are great ways to develop these skills.
3. Enhanced Social Skills: Many large motor activities involve social interaction. Playing ball games or engaging in group activities helps toddlers develop important social skills like sharing and cooperation.
4. Boosted Confidence and Independence: Successfully mastering physical challenges, such as climbing a play structure or riding a bike, boosts a toddler's confidence and fosters a sense of independence.
My Favorite Toys for developing Fine Motor and Large Motor that I recommend as a Kindergarten Teacher
Sensory Table
Sensory tables (Affiliate Link) are fantastic tools for developing fine motor skills in toddlers. By engaging in hands-on activities like scooping, pouring, and picking up small objects, children enhance their hand-eye coordination, strengthen finger and hand muscles, and refine their pincer grasp. These tables also promote creative exploration, tactile sensitivity, and bilateral coordination. Kinetic sand, Pluffle, water, and rice are great options for a sensory table.
To make color rice simply add paint to a bag of white rice and shake. Crushing up Fruit Loops is a great taste safe options for little ones. I used a blender to make my Fruit loop Sensory bin.
Little Climbers
This is Beautiful Rainbow Little Climber (affiliate Link) is perfect for your little one to build large motor skills and get their energy out. You can use it outside or inside.
Ball Pit
Ball Pits Affiliate Link enhances large motor skills, improves hand-eye coordination, and promotes sensory exploration. Ball pits encourage active play.
Fine Motors Toys
These Wooden Games not only build fine motor skills they are educational and can help build pre-readiness skills to get children ready for school.
Here are some of my favorite toys that we use in my house:
Choosing toys that build fine motor skills and large motor skills is essential for your toddler's development. These toys not only entertain but also play a crucial role in enhancing physical, cognitive, and social skills. By providing a variety of engaging and appropriate toys, you can ensure your child develops the necessary skills to thrive. Prioritize playtime and watch your toddler grow stronger and more capable every day.
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