Jumping is such a fun way for your child to build strong leg muscles and burn some serious energy!
In those post we will give you lots of information about jumping including:
- Toddler Jumping Developmental Milestone
- When do toddlers start jumping.
- Toddler not jumping…should I be concerned?
- Jumping Activities for Toddlers
- Best Jumping Toys for Toddlers
- Frequently Asked Questions about Toddler Jumping
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Jumping Developmental Milestone
There are a few different ways that children jump that should be looked at when we talk about the jumping developmental milestones.
The first skill that you may consider to be jumping is a slight hop that your child does, where they usually get one foot of the ground at a time and may look similar to a skip.
The second step is when your toddler is able to get both feet off of the ground.
Lastly, you will look for your child to be able to jump or hop multiple times in a row, like a frog jump.
Your toddler will also be able to change directions as they get more comfortable jumping and may go forward and backward, and also side to side.
When do toddlers start jumping?
Toddlers will generally start to be able to jump off of the ground and low surfaces around their 2nd birthday.
Some may do it a few months before then while others may be a little later.
Jumping requires strength and coordination for your child to be able to get their feet off the ground.
Click here for more activity ideas on how to build strength in your toddler.
It also requires your little one to be motivated and confident to practice this new skill.
Toddler not jumping…Should I be concerned?
All children will meet their milestones at different times, but if you are ever concerned about your child’s development you should contact your pediatrician or early intervention to see if they should do a screening or evaluation.
Jumping Activities for Toddlers
Want your toddler to practice their new jumping skill?
Here are some fun ways that you can promote jumping through play time.
Pretend You Are Animals
One of my favorite ways to practice jumping with young children is by pretending to be animals.
Not only will you build strength and coordination but you will also encourage them to use their imagination.
Have your little one think about what animals jump.
If they get stuck…here are some good examples of animals/insects that jump:
- Frog
- Rabbit
- Kangaroo
- Grasshopper
- Spider
Make an Obstacle Course
One of the best ways to motivate your child to jump is by giving them something to jump over!
For brand new jumpers you are going to want to start small…very small.
If you are practicing inside you can use a piece of yarn or string to have them jump over.
If you are outside then you can draw a line with chalk or have them jump over a stick.
As they get more comfortable and confident with jumping you can set up an obstacle course using pillows, books, or whatever you can find around your house that would be safe for your little one to jump over or around.
Jump and Dance to Music
Music is a great way to get your little one moving!
Turn on your favorite tunes and have a dance party where you can model how to jump in a natural way for your little one.
If they see you jumping…chances are they will try to do the same.
You can also try this while you sing songs together by switching the tune just a bit.
For example, instead of “if your happy and you know it clap your hands,” try something like “if your happy and you know it jump for joy.”
Click here for a list of songs that are great at encouraging gross motor skills in toddlers.
Motivate Your Child to Jump With Bubbles
If your child isn’t motivated by jumping over something…how about trying jumping up to reach something?
Blowing bubbles is an exciting activity for most little ones as they want to touch and try to pop them.
Start by blowing bubbles up high and encourage your little one to jump and try to pop them.
Best Jumping Toys for Toddlers
Floor Piano mat
My kids have a piano like this and it has been a big hit!
Jumping from one key to another is very motivating and fun for little ones.
Another thing I love about this toy is it will continue to be fun and challenging even as your child gets older.
You can take a closer look at this floor mat piano HERE.
Balance Stepping Stones
Remember how we talked about how fun it can be to jump over or on things?
These would be a great option as they come in fun colors and are very motivating for little ones.
They are easy to store and can be used to play a variety of games as your child gets older.
You can check them out HERE.
Bubble Wands Set
We know that bubbles are motivating for kids in so many ways…especially when it comes to jumping.
I like these bubble wands because your child will also be able to make bubbles themselves using the wands.
Bubbles provide a great way for kids to be imaginative and use all sorts of skills while playing.
You can take a closer look at this bubble wand set HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jumping a a great way for your little one to burn some energy off and build muscle strength.
Many children actually crave jumping because of the sensory input that it gives their body.
Set up jumping activities for your little one indoors or outdoors.
One of the best ways to introduce any skill to a child is by modeling it for them.
Show your little one how to jump and see if they will try and imitate you.
Yes, usually the jumping milestone is met shortly after their 2nd birthday. Keep in mind all children are different and some may jump sooner while others may take a bit longer.
