Getting your child moving, means they are using up energy!

It also means that by the time dinner rolls around, they may actually sit in peace instead of being extremely fidgety because they haven't gotten the chance to run all day.

There are simple, easy ways to get moving:

• Dance to music
• Run or roll down a hill
• Spin in circles over and over

There are also ways to incorporate movement into learning and art.

1. Make a big maze!

Simply draw out a maze, or tape one off with masking tape, and let the kids drive through it, or roll a ball, or even walk it themselves. Problem solving is key here. A question that you can expect to be asked: "How can I get over there?" Simply guide them and let them solve their own problem.

2. Create big art

Make any kind of art and just make it large so its takes the entire body to make it. Or kick, roll, throw items to make the art. This all helps with hand/foot and eye coordination.

3. Set up a simple balance beam

This works on coordination (one foot directly in front of the other) as well as balance preparing for riding a bike for the first time!

4. Set up an activity or obstacle course

This always looks more complicated than it really is. All you really need are activity 'spots' and to choose an activity to do on these spots, such as jump three times, spin 5 times, or bend over and touch your toes. Vary the activities based on the child's skill level. This is an excellent way to practice gross motor skills, but fine motor skills can be brought into the mix too. For example, you could have them tear three strips of paper, or draw a circle before they move on.

5. A scavenger hunt

These can be done indoor or outdoor, and vary depending on the season. An exciting twist to the scavenger hunt is to string up some yarn and let your toddler follow the string to find exciting treasures along the way. You could even bring in the activity course idea into this and add activities to the adventure!

Next: Brain boosters for toddlers