10 Outdoor Gross Motor Activities for Babies Under 12 Months
As parents, we all want our babies to develop strong gross motor skills. Gross motor skills are movements that involve large muscle groups in the body, such as arms, legs, and core. These skills are important for basic functions like sitting up, crawling, and walking. Gross motor activities for babies help develop these skills while also encouraging exploration of the world around them. In this article, we will discuss 10 outdoor gross motor activities for babies under 12 months that will aid in their physical development.
1. Tummy Time
Tummy time is a great way to strengthen a baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles. It also helps to prevent flat spots on the head and promotes balance. To practice tummy time, place your baby on a blanket or mat and encourage them to lift their head and look around. You can also place toys in front of them to keep them entertained. Start with a few minutes a day and gradually increase the time as your baby gets stronger.
2. Water Play
Playing with water is a fun way to engage a baby’s senses and develop hand-eye coordination. You can fill a small pool with water and let your baby splash around, or use a watering can to water plants together. Make sure to supervise your baby at all times and keep water play shallow and safe.
3. Swing Time
Swinging is a great way to encourage balance and coordination in babies. You can use a baby swing or hold your baby in a seated position on a playground swing. Make sure to support your baby’s head and neck while swinging.
4. Walk and Explore
Take your baby for a walk in a stroller or baby carrier to explore the outdoors. Point out different objects and describe them to your baby. This activity not only encourages gross motor skills, but also language development.
5. Kick and Play
Lay your baby on a soft surface and encourage them to kick their legs. You can also place a ball or soft toy just out of their reach to encourage them to reach and grab.
6. Dance Party
Put on some lively music and hold your baby close as you dance together. This activity helps develop balance and coordination while also providing bonding time with your baby.
7. Obstacle Course
Create a simple obstacle course using pillows, cushions, and other soft objects. Encourage your baby to crawl over, under, and through the objects to increase gross motor development.
8. Bubble Fun
Blowing bubbles is a fun way to encourage reaching, grabbing, and hand-eye coordination. Use a bubble wand or bubble machine to create a magical outdoor experience for your baby.
9. Ball Pit Exploration
Fill a small ball pit with soft, colorful balls and place your baby inside. This activity encourages exploration and gross motor development while also providing sensory stimulation.
10. Mirror Play
Place a baby-safe mirror in front of your baby and encourage them to reach for their reflection. This activity helps to develop hand-eye coordination and self-awareness.
In conclusion, these outdoor gross motor activities provide a range of ways to develop a baby’s physical abilities while also encouraging exploration and socialization. When practicing these activities, it’s important to provide close supervision and create a safe space for your baby to play. Have fun and watch as your baby grows stronger and more confident with each new activity.
