Physical Play
3 months to 1 years
Here comes the first major development milestone - The Sideways Roll!
Around the 3rd month your baby will begin to gear himself up for his first developmental milestone - rolling over. Although he probably won't be ready to attempt this for a while yet, all the practicing he is doing will definitely help.
His neck muscles are much stronger now and he may be able to hold his head straight while you support her body. When you lay him on his tummy he may begin to use his arms to push his whole chest off the floor and enjoy rocking backwards and forwards. He may also begin to start pushing off the floor with his legs as they become stronger and while this helps him prepare for crawling stance, it is unlikely that she'll coordinate the two movements for while.
As your baby gains more control over his arms and legs they become stronger; he may now be able to support some of his own weight when you hold him upright. You may notice that when you hold your baby in a standing position he lifts one leg into the air as if taking a step, this is known as the 'stepping reflex'.
This month she may learn to coordinate the movement of his hands and fingers a little better and enjoy clasping his hands together. You may also notice her making a lot more coordinated movement with her arms and legs.
There are a number of toys that promote physical exercise, no matter how small and these can be used in both the cot, in the lounge, the pram and the car. You can buy many wonderful toys and baby gyms perfectly suited to provide the ultimate exercise and these can be used throughout the first twelve months and beyond.
1 years+
“Sit and ride” toys, tricycles, bikes - These are versatile and popular with children. They can make moving around part of their games and can play co-operatively together. Many skills are developed, including the ability to judge speed, steer and pedal. Leg muscles are strengthened and general co-ordination is developed. The range of equipment means that very young children can enjoy feeling mobile.
Slides help your child to learn and climb and they build up his confidence in balancing. He enjoys the sense of risk-taking and challenge as he climbs. Different heights of slide are available, ranging from two steps upwards.
2 to 6 years
Play Tunnels Play tunnels can be used by your child as a place to hide when playing with friends as part of a game. It can also be used as part of an obstacle course and can often link into other pieces of equipment such as tents. Your child develops co-ordination between the arms and legs and general agility. Be aware that your child may become frightened and may get stuck so your supervision and encouragement is vitally important.
Suitable Toys