Move & balance

Flat marker path

Travel beside a short flat floor path in your child's usual way.

5 minutes

What you'll need

Two flat non-slip floor markers · 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

  1. Place both markers completely flat with space between them.
  2. Travel beside them together in your child's usual way.
  3. Let your child choose the return route.
Make it easier

Use one flat marker and a very short route.

Standard

Travel beside a short flat floor path in your child's usual way.

Extend it

Add a stop or gentle turn without adding objects to carry.

What you might notice

Weight shifts, route choices and confidence.

Keep it safe

Use only completely flat non-slip markers on a clear dry level floor; no cushions, beams, furniture or raised surfaces. Stay within arm's reach, stop before fatigue or imbalance, and remove the markers.

Why it may be useful

This adds a short burst of active play with room to practise balance, coordination and whole-body movement.

practice guidance

General movement guidance for healthy children; adapt for individual abilities and environments.

Truelove et al. (2017) — Defining and Measuring Active Play Among Young Children: A Systematic Review

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (2026) — Recommendations for infants, toddlers and preschoolers (birth to 5 years)

Raising Children Network (2025) — Toddler play: ideas, games and activities

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