Toddlers develop many physical abilities in a short period of time. Generally, they move quickly from crawling, to pulling up, to walking and so on. One might assume they develop these skills naturally without environmental influences; however, toddlers who are not exposed to age-appropriate physical development activities will not develop skills as adequately as their peers who are encouraged through deliberate physical development activities to use new skills.
Daily Recommendations
The National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) recommends that toddlers participate in structured physical activities each day for at least 30 minutes. These 30 minutes should be spread out in increments throughout the day. In addition, toddlers should be allowed to engage in unstructured physical activity for at least 60 minutes each day.
How do Toddlers Develop Physically?
According to the National Association of Sport and Physical Education, toddlers develop physically when exposed to different physical activities. Toddlers who are not encouraged to throw or bounce a ball may be delayed in that area. This is true for other types of physical development as well. Thus, it is important for toddlers to be given the opportunity to do all sorts of activities so that development will occur.
Activities for Young Toddlers (12 to 18 months old)
At this stage, toddlers are generally beginning to walk. Playing with push toys may help develop walking skills. Also, young toddlers should be allowed to roll, catch (when rolled on the floor) and throw balls, carry items and build with blocks. Playing hide-and-seek is also an appropriate physical development activity for toddlers.
Activities for Older Toddlers (18 to 24 months old)
At this time, toddlers should be encouraged to kick a ball and to begin walking up and down stairs. Also, games such as "head, shoulders, knees and toes" will promote physical development. Dancing to music is also a great activity for physical development in toddlers.
Physical Delays in Toddlers
If a toddler has difficulty completing recommended physical development activities, a physical development delay may be present. Parents should discuss concerns with a pediatrician, who may recommend further evaluation and possibly physical or occupational therapy.
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