How can rocking and rolling enhance my child's...

How can rocking and rolling enhance my child's mobility?

As soon as your toddler realises that his legs and feet are the key to his mobility, he will just love his own vehicle to get around on. Toy cars or scooters are great for him to get around on, because they are low enough for him to move by just using his legs and feet. At first, he will start by using both feet at the same time, and, as he becomes adept at this, will begin to use a walking motion to move his vehicle along.

Once he has mastered this, and when he is a little older, from about the age of two and a half, a tricycle is the next phase. This will help him to develop his leg muscles as well as general co-ordination. Of course, he is also going to discover that he can now move a lot faster, so a helmet is a must, especially if he is going to be riding on a pavement.

If he is a little apprehensive about riding the tricycle at first, lower the seat as far as it will go, just until he gets used to the idea of riding high up.

If the weather is bad and your toddler needs to stay inside, see that he has a rocking horse handy, as these will have the same muscle enhancement benefits as a tricycle.

More questions

How do I raise a bookworm?

The earlier you begin to encourage a love of reading in your child, the better.

My toddler is drooling and having trouble eating. Should I worry?

Drooling and difficulty eating can be associated with normal toddler behaviour, illness or sensory processes.

When does separation and independence occur in a child?

Up to the age of three, your toddler will be over separation anxiety. However, as there are so many separations in the years of growing up – pre-school, a few days away at camp, and even your child’s first year at college, bouts of separation anxiety could very well occur from time to time all through your child’s life.

How can I ensure that my toddler's motor development is on track?

As long as your toddler has plenty of space and time to play, and practice all their new physical skills, they’re probably doing just fine with her development!

How can I make sure that my child stays curious and interested in the world around him?

Toddlers are naturally curious about everything. Instead of stifling that curiosity, you should be making every effort to promote it!

Encouraging imagination and creativity: how do I do it?

Your child’s imagination is not only a source of fun – it’s one of his or her most important early learning tools.

I want my child to be in touch with her emotions. How can I ensure that she grows up that way?

Young children are emotional beings. The worst thing you can do is make them stifle those emotions. Teach them how to cope with them instead, and you’ll raise a well-adjusted child.

Encouraging spirituality: how can I make sure that my child grows up with a spiritual foundation?

If you want your child to grow up with a strong spiritual foundation, it’s never too young to start teaching, but remember to teach by example.