As a parent, you can play a big role in helping your child develop essential physical skills. And the best part is that you don’t need any special equipment or a lot of extra time to do it. In fact, you can make learning and practicing new skills a fun, family activity!

Our pediatric therapists have put together some expert tips that you can easily use at home to support your child’s growth and development. Keep reading to find out how reaching physical milestones can be easy and fun.

Get on the Floor and Crawl with Your Baby

Crawling is an important milestone in your baby’s physical development because it helps them to build strength and coordination. One of the best ways to encourage your baby to crawl is by joining in! When you get down on the floor and crawl with them, you automatically turn it into a fun, interactive game.

You can create little obstacle courses with pillows or toys and cheer them on as they make their way through. You can even stage a little “race” for a favorite toy, or simply crawl around exploring your home. This not only helps your baby improve their motor skills, but it’s a fun way to bond with your baby.

Let Your Child Climb on and Off Furniture

While it might make you a little nervous, allowing your child to climb on and off furniture is a great way to improve their balance, strength, and coordination. Climbing helps your child develop these important motor skills, and it can also be a fun activity.

To make it safer, be sure to supervise closely and provide soft surfaces like cushions or rugs for them to land on if they slip. You can also turn it into a game—ask them to climb onto a couch and jump into your arms, or create a scavenger hunt where they need to climb to reach their “treasures.”

Encourage Them to Ride a Tricycle, Balance Bike, or Bicycle

Riding a tricycle, balance bike, or bicycle helps children build strength, coordination, and balance. These activities are also great for building confidence! Start with a balance bike or a tricycle for younger children, and as they get older, move on to a bicycle with training wheels.

You can make it a fun adventure by riding together around the neighborhood or through the park. Don’t forget to stay safe by always using helmets and protective gear!

Play Games Together

Simple, fun games are a great way to help your child achieve developmental skills while spending quality time as a family. For babies and toddlers, games like peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake, or rolling a ball back and forth are perfect for building coordination and motor skills.

As your child gets older, try playing games like Simon Says, hopscotch, or even a game of tag. These activities not only promote physical development but also build key social skills and creativity.

Reach Out to First Steps for Expert Support

If you’re concerned about your child’s physical development, our expert team at First Steps Pediatric Therapy is here to help. We offer clinic-based, in-home, and teletherapy services to support your child in achieving their milestones.

Call us today at (720) 989-0179 to schedule an evaluation and ensure your child is on track for their development!