Gross Motor Skills in Daycare Guide 2026: Physical Development
Complete guide to gross motor development at daycare in 2026. Large muscle activities, milestones, outdoor play, and supporting physical development.
Gross motor development—the coordination of large muscles for movements like running, jumping, and climbing—is essential for overall physical health, coordination, and even cognitive development. Quality daycare programs provide ample opportunities for physical activity and motor skill development.
Table of Contents
- Gross Motor Milestones
- How Quality Programs Support Development
- Indoor and Outdoor Opportunities
- Supporting Physical Development
Gross Motor Milestones
Developmental Progression
| Age | Typical Skills | |-----|----------------| | 1 year | Walking, beginning to climb | | 2 years | Running, kicking balls, climbing stairs | | 3 years | Jumping, pedaling, throwing | | 4 years | Hopping, skipping, catching | | 5 years | Skipping smoothly, sports skills |
Components
Gross motor includes:
- Balance and coordination
- Strength and endurance
- Body awareness
- Spatial awareness
- Bilateral coordination
How Quality Programs Support Development
Physical Activity Requirements
| Age | Recommended Daily Activity | |-----|---------------------------| | Toddlers | 60-90+ minutes active play | | Preschoolers | 90-120+ minutes active play | | School-age | 60+ minutes moderate-vigorous |
Environment
Quality includes:
- Large open spaces
- Age-appropriate equipment
- Variety of surfaces
- Indoor movement area
- Safe climbing opportunities
Indoor and Outdoor Opportunities
Outdoor Activities
| Activity | Skills Developed | |----------|------------------| | Running games | Speed, endurance | | Climbing | Strength, coordination | | Ball play | Throwing, catching | | Riding toys | Balance, leg strength | | Obstacle courses | Multiple skills |
Indoor Movement
When outdoors isn't possible:
- Dance and movement
- Yoga for kids
- Indoor climbing
- Active games
- Gross motor stations
Supporting Physical Development
What to Look For
On tours, observe: | Element | Quality Indicator | |---------|-------------------| | Outdoor time | Substantial, daily | | Equipment | Age-appropriate, varied | | Activities | Structured and free play | | Space | Room to move | | Supervision | Active, engaged |
Questions to Ask
- How much outdoor time daily?
- What gross motor activities do you offer?
- What happens on rainy days?
- How do you support children with delays?
- What equipment is available?
Physical Development and Learning
Why It Matters
Gross motor supports:
- Cognitive development
- Attention and focus
- Self-regulation
- Social skills
- Overall health
Resources
Last updated: December 2025