Monkey Jumping

Monkey Jumping

Jumping helps toddlers learn a great deal about what their bodies can and cannot do.

Time

  • 10 to 15 minutes

Materials

  • Large piece of foam or old mattress

Directions

Toddlers love to jump, an activity that helps them learn a great deal about what their bodies can and cannot do. A jumping pad or mattress provides a safe place to jump, fall, roll, tumble, and practice emerging moving skills while having a playful time burning off energy.

Extensions

  • Have your toddler jump into your arms as you stand close to the side.
  • Have your toddler jump while holding a favorite doll or stuffed animal.
  • Add some pillows on the center of the mattress.


  • A toddler is typically considered to be a child between the ages of 1 and 3 years old. This is a general guideline, and some people might use slightly different age ranges. The important thing is that a toddler is a child who is just starting to walk
  • More than just a chance to have fun, play is serious business when it comes to a childs health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a childs brain, body, and life in important wa
  • Developmental psychologist Jean Piaget holds the distinction of creating one of the best-known theories of cognitive development. Piaget described cognitive development as a dual process involving assimilating and accommodating knowledge and thought