In the Montessori Toddler environment, gross motor development is thoughtfully nurtured. During these critical early years, toddlers are learning to coordinate their bodies, build strength, and gain confidence through movement. Supporting these skills is essential for their physical, cognitive, and emotional growth.

Movement Throughout the Day

Gross motor activity is woven naturally into the Montessori work cycle. Toddlers carry trays and baskets, roll and unroll rugs, and join in circle time activities that involve purposeful movement like stretching, clapping, and dancing. These daily experiences strengthen coordination, balance, and independence.

An essential component of gross motor development is what we call “risky play.” This type of play involves activities that challenge a child’s physical limits in a safe and supervised way.

Activities like climbing, running, and carrying heavy objects are examples of "risky play" and are vital to a toddler’s overall growth. Physically, they build strength, balance, and coordination. Cognitively, movement promotes problem-solving, concentration, and the development of neural pathways essential for later learning. Emotionally, mastering new physical challenges boosts self-confidence, resilience, and emotional regulation. 

Both indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to encourage active movement. Indoors, toddlers in our classroom cam climb on a Pikler triangles, play on our wooden slide and carry heavy objects to build strength. Outdoors, they run, climb, swing, dig, and engage with nature, further developing gross motor skills while enjoying fresh air and open spaces.

Movement is essential in the Montessori Toddler environment. By providing intentional opportunities for gross motor activity - indoors, outdoors, and throughout the daily work cycle - we support toddlers in becoming confident, capable, and joyful movers in their world.

By Ms. Jenny, Toddler Educator