The Motor Development in the Second Year of Life

Milestones and Play

In the first years of your child's life, motor development goes through numerous important phases that are crucial for physical coordination and skills. Especially in the second year of life there is rapid progress that can be supported through targeted games and activities. Let’s take a look today at how fine and gross motor skills develop during this phase and how you as parents can encourage your little ones.

Fine motor skills

Fine motor skills refer to the ability to perform small movements with the hands and fingers precisely. In the second year of life, children begin to develop dexterity, which shows in activities like grasping small objects, stacking blocks, and drawing with crayons. Parents can support their child's fine motor skills through simple games like sorting shapes, playing with finger paints, and making collages.

Gross motor skills

Gross motor skills refer to larger movements that involve the whole body. In the second year of life, children make enormous progress in their gross motor development. They learn to crawl, stand, and walk, which gives them new independence and allows them to explore their surroundings. They also develop abilities like sliding, balancing, climbing, hopping, and jumping, which are crucial for their physical fitness.

Sliding, Balancing, Climbing, Hopping and Jumping

Sliding on playgrounds is not only an entertaining activity but also a great way for your children to improve their movement coordination and overcome fears. While balancing, children learn to control their posture and strengthen their muscles, and climbing builds strength and self-confidence. Hopping and jumping promote not only endurance but also coordination and balance.

First ball games

Playing with balls is a popular activity in your child's second year. It helps improve hand-eye coordination and refine motor skills. Simple ball games like rolling, catching, and throwing support muscle development and improve movement coordination.

First everyday actions like dressing and undressing

In the second year of life, our children also begin to learn first everyday actions, such as dressing and undressing. This requires fine motor skills, coordination, and concentration. You as parents can support your little ones by choosing clothing with large buttons or zippers and helping them learn the steps.

Three play ideas that promote motor development in children under 3 years

1. Treasure hunt in an indoor play area:

Set up an indoor play area with soft mats, tunnels, cushions, and low climbing frames. Hide small toys or treasure items around the room. Let the children explore freely and find the hidden treasures. This activity promotes climbing, crawling, balancing, and hand-eye coordination.

2. Colorful balloon chase:

Inflate several colorful balloons and let them float around the room. Ask the children to chase and catch the balloons. Use soft, lightweight balls in different sizes and colors and let the children try throwing and catching them. This activity promotes grasping, throwing, catching, and movement coordination.

3. Dress-up change game:

Provide the children with a selection of clothing featuring different fastenings like buttons, zippers, and Velcro. Encourage your child to put on and take off the clothes by themselves. Praise efforts and help when needed. This activity promotes fine motor skills, independence, and everyday self-reliance.

Overall, the second year of life is an exciting milestone in your child's motor development. Through targeted games and activities, you can promote your child's fine and gross motor skills and support them on their way to a healthy and active lifestyle.