This or That: Summer Motor Play! ☀️
Summer is here—which means longer days, warmer weather, and endless opportunities to support your child’s development through PLAY! As a pediatric PT, I love giving families fun, low-stress ways to keep kids moving, especially when school’s out and routines get a little more relaxed.
That’s where “This or That: Summer Motor Play” comes in!
Think of it as a playful game that gives your child two fun, movement-based choices. No screens, no prep, just fresh air and body-powered fun that builds coordination, balance, strength, and sensory awareness.
Ready to play? Here are a few summer favorites to get started:
Sprinkler Play vs. Scooter Races
Sprinkler play encourages jumping, dodging, and reacting to unpredictable movement—great for balance and body awareness.
Scooter races help with core control, coordination, and spatial planning. Plus, they’re just plain fun!
-Pick one and get moving!
Sidewalk Chalk Hopscotch vs. Water Balloon Squats
Chalk hopscotch builds agility, single-leg balance, and number recognition.
Water balloon squats are an awesome way to sneak in lower-body strength while working on coordination and grip.
-Which one will your kiddo choose today?
Beach Towel Yoga vs. Slip-n-Slide Crawling
Beach towel yoga encourages breathing, body control, and flexibility in a playful setting (try animal poses!).
Slip-n-slide crawling works those tummy muscles and boosts upper body strength—all while staying cool.
-One’s calm, one’s wild—both are PT-approved!
Every time your munchkin runs, jumps, balances, or crawls, they’re building the motor foundations they need for school, sports, and everyday confidence. You don’t need fancy equipment or formal workouts—just a little creativity and a willingness to get outside and play.
So next time you hear “I’m bored,” turn it into a game of This or That—and let their growing bodies do what they do best: move!
