Animal movement parade
Copy simple animal movements across a clear room.
5 minutesWhat you'll need
Clear floor space
Before you start
Can move independently in their usual way
Best fit: either · active energy · medium caregiver effort · low mess
How to play
- Choose one familiar animal.
- Choose a movement that uses your child's existing crawl or walk and do it together.
- Let your child invent the next movement.
Use one stationary hand or face movement.
Copy simple animal movements across a clear room.
Change between ordinary and slow pace without jumping or racing.
Movements your child repeats or adapts.
Use a clear dry level floor and movements the child already performs independently. Crawlers stay floor-level; only steady independent walkers use standing actions. Stay within arm's reach and stop before fatigue or imbalance.
Why it may be useful
This adds a short burst of active play with room to practise balance, coordination and whole-body movement.
practice guidanceGeneral movement guidance for healthy children; adapt for individual abilities and environments.
Raising Children Network (2025) — Toddler play: ideas, games and activities
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