Best Outdoor Toys for Gross Motor Development
With an endless amount of toys, games, equipment, etc., how do we do decide which one is worth the money to keep our kids busy this summer? Here are some of my favorite outdoor toys that are sure to keep your family engaged and entertained for hours. Not only are these toys fun, but they also encourage the development of gross motor skills that are essential in our everyday life such as balance, coordination, and strength. As an added bonus, many of these toys also address sensory processing needs (i.e. vestibular and proprioceptive) that many children struggle with in addition to gross motor challenges.
Sidewalk chalk
Simple, inexpensive, yet so many possibilities! Creating obstacle courses, hopscotch, races, or car tracks are easy ways to utilize this toy in a therapeutic manner.
Hula Hoop
This toy can be used in a variety of ways such as part of an obstacle course, target practice, or even as its intended use to build core strength and balance.
Balloon
A simple, kid favorite, that can also be used in a variety of ways such as with a baseball bat or fly swatter, water balloon toss and catch, target practice with water balloons.. save for a hot day! Water balloons are great for building strength in little hands and arms.
Parachute
A parachute is a great way to encourage upper body coordination, motor planning, and balance while working together as a team. Throw in a few balls or other toys and your kids will have a blast!
Jump Rope
A traditional toy that can be used in so many different creative ways. Jump roping builds gross motor skills including bilateral and hand-eye coordination, motor planning, as well as strength and endurance.
