What are good gross motor activities for nursery children?
Good gross motor activities include running and chasing games, jumping, hopping, balancing on lines, climbing, throwing and catching balls, obstacle courses, dancing and action songs. WHO recommends that children aged 3 to 4 spend at least 180 minutes a day in physical activity, including at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity.
What this means in practice
Movement builds strength, coordination and confidence, and supports attention and learning.
Ideas
- Obstacle course with mats, hoops and tunnels
- Animal walks
- Ball games
- Freeze dance
- Hopscotch
- Parachute games
Indoors when it rains
Action rhymes, yoga poses, balance lines on the floor and dance keep children moving.
Including every child
Adapt activities so all children can join: lower obstacles, give more time, use larger balls or offer a different role. Movement builds confidence, so celebrate effort rather than speed.
Practical next steps
- Plan outdoor play daily.
- Include movement breaks.
- Check equipment safety.
What to keep in mind
Supervise closely, check surfaces and adapt activities for children with physical needs.
Common follow-up questions
How much outdoor play do nursery children need?
Daily, as much as possible; WHO recommends plenty of physical activity for under-5s.
Is dance a gross motor activity?
Yes.
Sources
- WHO guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5
- CDC: Developmental milestones
Course facts come from APTTI's published course pages. Examples use made-up names. How these answers are prepared.