Playground Moments That Build Big Skills
Sometimes, the best kind of therapy doesn’t look like therapy at all.
It looks like chasing your child across a wooden bridge, pushing them on the swings, or cheering them on as they climb to the top of the slide. It looks like a regular trip to the playground—but behind the giggles and games, something really important is happening.
Your child is building gross motor skills—the big movements that help with balance, strength, coordination, and confidence. And with just a little intention, you can turn everyday play into meaningful growth.
Let’s explore how.
Climbing Builds More Than Confidence
When your child scales a ladder or pulls themselves up a climbing wall, they’re not just having fun—they’re strengthening their arms, core, and legs. These muscles support posture, help with sitting still in class, and give kids the stability they need for everything from writing to sports.
If your child seems hesitant to climb, offer encouragement without pressure. Try saying, “Let’s do it together,” or “I’ll be right here to catch you.” Even taking one step up and back down is a win worth celebrating.
Swinging Supports Rhythm and Balance
The simple back-and-forth motion of swinging helps develop a child’s sense of balance and body awareness. It also gives calming input to the nervous system—something especially helpful for children who are easily overwhelmed.
Try encouraging your child to pump their legs if they’re ready, or let them lie on their belly across the swing for a different kind of core workout. Want to join in the fun? Sit on the swing next to them and play a game of “Swing and Freeze”—stopping together on cue.
Slides Help with Body Control and Taking Turns
Climbing up, sitting down, and going down the slide takes more planning and coordination than it seems. It’s a great opportunity for kids to practice sequencing movements, shifting their weight, and taking turns with others.
Encourage your child to try climbing up different types of ladders or steps. You can also make it a game by racing to the slide or counting how many times they can go down in a row.
And don’t forget—you can go down together. It’s fun, and it models the movement in a safe, silly way.
Running, Chasing, and Playing Tag Improve Coordination
Free play like tag, hide-and-seek, or racing from one structure to the next builds cardiovascular strength, reaction time, and coordination. It also gives kids a healthy outlet for energy and can help with self-regulation.
Don’t be afraid to get silly. Pretend you’re monsters, animals, or superheroes. Adding imagination makes the movement more fun—and gives your child the chance to lead the play.
Balancing Builds Core Strength and Focus
If your playground has a balance beam or stepping stones, encourage your child to try them out. Balancing activities challenge the muscles that help with sitting upright, walking steadily, and staying focused in a busy environment.
Make it a game—can they balance with their arms out like an airplane? Can they tiptoe across without “falling into the lava”? Even standing on one foot together for a few seconds builds important skills in a playful way.
The Most Important Thing? You’re There
More than any structured activity or milestone, what matters most is that your child sees you watching, cheering, and playing alongside them. That connection is what makes the playground a safe and joyful space to try new things.
So whether they’re conquering the monkey bars or just happy digging in the sand, know that your presence is what gives them the courage to grow.
And while they’re building big muscles and new skills, you’re building something, too—trust, confidence, and memories that matter.
