How to Teach Toddlers to Jump

Beginning between the ages of 2 and 3, toddlers are physically able to jump, which helps them develop gross motor coordination and body balance. You should supervise them so they don't attempt dangerous moves, such as jumping from the top of a staircase. You can help toddlers practice jumping up off the floor while standing in place or you can allow them to jump from one low level to another lower level.

Things You'll Need

  • Recording of "Pop Goes the Weasel"
  • Music player
  • Staircase, low stool or other low, sturdy objects

Instructions

  1. Musical Activity

    • 1

      Ask the toddlers to stand in front of you and watch. Bend your knees slightly and jump up in the air while saying "Jump!" Explain what you just did is called a jump. Ask the toddlers to copy your movements and jump when you say "Jump!" Repeat two or three times.

    • 2

      Assist any child who appears to have difficulty executing the movement. Go over to the child and ask him to bend his knees. Model for him. Tell him to jump up in the air when you say "Jump!"

    • 3

      Tell the toddlers you're going to play a song called "Pop Goes the Weasel." Ask them to follow your movements during the song. Explain that when they hear the word "Pop" they should jump up in the air.

    • 4

      Play the song "Pop Goes the Weasel." Sing the words of the song and encourage the toddlers to sing with you. When you hear the word "Pop," bend your knees slightly and jump up in the air.

    Higher to Lower

    • 5

      Help your child put on a pair of tennis shoes. Ask your child to stand on the last step of a staircase or on top of a sturdy suitcase or other low, sturdy object.

    • 6

      Tell her you're going to count to three. Ask her to jump off the object onto the floor when you say "three."

    • 7

      Repeat this process as many times as your child wants to, but stop if she seems dizzy or off-balance, to avoid injury.

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