If you talk to an occupational therapist, they will tell you that one of the best ways to make sure that your child is able to use play time efficiently is to engage them in gross motor activities first. Getting out the energy with big movements allows the body and brain to focus on things that need a little more attention. But when it’s the middle of winter, literally freezing outside, and you’re stuck in the house, it can be difficult to find the space to make gross motor movements happen. That’s why we’ve put together a list of activities you can do inside to make focused play time a little more focused.
Painters Tape Hopscotch
This is super simple! Use some painters tape (or masking tape) to lay out a hopscotch grid on the floor. Super fun, easy to make, and it will come off easily when you are done. If you have tile floors and not tape, a dry erase marker can work, too! Just test a small area first to make sure it won’t stain.
Paper Plate Skates
This is exactly what it sounds like. Get some tape, roll it, attach one side to the plate and another to the bottom of your kiddo’s shoes. Then glide around! You can have races or your own indoor figure skating olympics!
Yoga
Need a calm activity? Try doing yoga with the kids! There are tons of great guided resources out there. On youtube, just search yoga for kids. We also LOVE Cosmic Kids Yoga Adventures if you have Amazon Prime.
Keepy Uppy
Any fans of Bluey will surely know Keepy Uppy. It may be the simplest, yet most entertaining game of all time. Blow up a balloon, hit it in the air, and don’t let it touch the ground!
Obstacle Course 
Anything in your house can turn into a fun obstacle course! From climbing under a chair to touching a something up high. This is a wonderful activity for following directions and memory. Want to work on creativity? Take turns making different courses without repeating any elements of the previous one!
Hide and Seek
Another classic! Not only does this activity encourage gross motor movement, but it also gives you a few minutes of quiet while the kiddos are hiding 😂
Giant Memory
Draw sets of matching pictures on paper plates, flip them over and mix them around. Then take turns seeing who can find a match! This is a great activity because the drawing can be just as fun as the game!
Animal Walks
First, put on some music, and then shout out the name of an animal. Everyone in the room needs to start walking like that animal. Whether bouncing around like a kangaroo or slithering like a snake, this activity is always a hit!
The Floor is Lava
No explanation needed. When’s the last time you played? You’ll remember very quickly how fun it is!
Costume Races
Take different pieces of a loved costume and hide them around the house. Set a timer and let your kiddo run around looking for and putting on the different pieces. When they’re fully dressed, stop the timer. Hide them again and see if they can beat their best time.
Simon Says
A great way to sneak in some exercise and practice following directions! Simon says play this one soon!
Dance Party
We could all use some time to cut a rug, and when you can’t go outside, it’s the perfect time!
Engaging in these activities is not only a great way to get out some energy, but you will also most likely see an improvement in your child’s ability to play independently afterward. Kids have tons of energy, and getting it out can make a big difference.
Need more ideas? Don’t forget to check out our other blogs!