Oh my goodness, toddlers and preschoolers have a lot of energy, and sometimes we just cannot get outside. Or, we’ve been outside already and they still have a lot of energy! Yep, this is why I have a list of go-to gross motor activities for indoors. And I am thankful for it!
We recently had a morning where the preschoolers arrived with enough energy to run a 5K race. Okay, maybe a half-marathon. Those are mornings we open the doors to go outside as quickly as possible. However, because we share that area with 2 other classes, we cannot stay out there all morning. (Believe me, on those high-energy days, I would gladly do it if we could.)
The first thing we do on these days is get moving with our collection of favorite active songs. If the wiggles are still there, it’s time for some gross motor activities for indoors. Some can be done in our classroom, and others need a bit more space so we go to our indoor gym. And believe me, I am thankful for a variety of ways to burn that energy!
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Gross Motor Activities for Indoors
Follow the Line: Grab a roll of painter’s tape, push your furniture out of the way, and invite your child to push heavy objects. (Little Bins for Little Hands)
Tic-Tac-Toss: You only need 2 items for this gross motor activity, and it can be done right in your living room. (Adventures in Wunderland)
Simple Straw Javelin Throw: Launch a drinking straw through the air and see how far it can go. (Toddler Approved)
Skee Ball: Empty those laundry baskets, because they will be needed for this fun indoor tossing activity! (Frugal Fun 4 Boys)
Bean Bag Stomp and Catch: Stomp on the board and watch the bean bag fly while you try to catch it! This is a fun DIY project and works hand-eye coordination. (I Can Teach My Child)
Wheelbarrow Walk Puzzle Fun: This is a great activity for working on coordination and arm strength. I love how it involves picking up puzzle pieces along the way! (Stir the Wonder)
Popcorn Game: One of our favorites that involves a parachute. (Teach Preschool)
Noodle Jumping: Here is a super easy activity that encourages motor planning skills, coordination and body awareness. (Pedia Staff)
Throwing Skills Game: Make your own rings and use the dining room chair! (Learning 4 Kids)
Color and Movement Game: Download the free color action cards and invite your child to recognize colors while moving! (Learn, Play, Imagine)
Animal Yoga: Choose a pose that represents an animal and hold the pose for as long as you can. (Mother Natured)
Arrow Jumping Game: Download the free printable and place arrows around the room for a fun jumping game. (And Next Comes L)
Paper Plate Ring Toss: Let the kids help you make this fun indoor activity! (A Little Learning for Two)
Box Jumping: All you need is some painter’s tape. Then, let the jumping begin! (Mama, Papa, Bubba)
Walk the Line: Practice balancing while also developing eye/foot coordination. (Moving Smart)
You can find even more ideas on my large motor pin board.
More fun ideas for young children:
