If you are looking for vestibular activities for toddlers, you’re in the right place! Today we are sharing ten different ways for young children to help stimulate vestibular processing. There are so many great vestibular activities that will help your child grow mentally and physically which is important as they grow. You can use these vestibular activities at home or at school.
Everyday Activities For Vestibular Sensory Input
Vestibular activities are activities that promote the movement of the head, like head positioned forward, head positioned downwards, tipped back, head tilt, etc. There are different types of input activities according to specific needs. Some typical vestibular activities are riding a bike, going down the slide, playing on a regular playground swing, and jumping on a trampoline are all great vestibular input activities. But if you need even more movement activities, we are sharing this list of ideas for your kid to try!
Vestibular development activities are crucial for a child’s development. They help them work, rest, play, and can calm them, as well as improve many different skills like hand-to-eye coordination, handwriting, getting a better sense of the world, body awareness, and more. Let’s get started!
What Is The Vestibular System?
You can break down the vestibular system in 5 different parts. The receptors in the inner ear which effects the brainstem. And the brain stem effects the next 4 parts. The thalamus and cortex which interprets input and plays a role in motion and perception. The oculomotor nuclei which steadies the eyes, head, and body movements. Then there is the spinal cord which influences posture and muscle tone. And lastly the cerebellum which has to do with coordination, movement, and posture.
The Best Vestibular Activities For Toddlers
1. Bosu Exercises
Just like an exercise ball, there are so many different Bosu exercises you can do indoors! It’s perfect for helping develop the sensory systems, and the best part is that you don’t need a lot of space to use it.
2. Let’s Make Homemade Bathtub Paint for Kids
Toddlers and preschoolers will love painting their own masterpieces at bath time with this DIY bathtub paint, and you’ll love how easy it is to clean up since this paint is washable. Since the bathtub is a canvas, kids will enjoy a variety of sensory activities.
3. Playing the Simon Says Game with Children
Play the Simon Says Game with your kids at home or in class, and it’s bound to be a hit. Kids can do slow movements, fast movements, try a different body’s position, and so many other different movements. The great thing about it is that you don’t need anything to play with, except a lot of imagination and creativity. You can make up different activities to enhance your child’s vestibular system. From Empowered Parents.
4. 8 Minute Morning Workout for Kids
Get your kids prepared for the day by working out 8 minutes in the morning – yes, only 8 minutes! It has so many great benefits for physical and cognitive development, improving muscle tone and vestibular receptors at the same time. From He’s Extraordinary.
5. Water Obstacle Course
Here’s a great activity for kids of all ages, especially for a picnic or birthday party. It does take a bit of a setup to make it happen, but it will provide a lot of entertainment for many hours. From Meaningful Mama.
6. Simple Crawling Obstacle Course for Baby
If you have a crawling baby that is constantly on the move, then this super simple obstacle course is for you! It helps build fine and gross motor skills in a super effective way. From Hands on As We Learn.
7. Activity Course with Balloons
Let’s build an activity course with an ABC mat and balloons. There are so many activities to do, like jumping, spinning, and more. From Hands On As We Grow.
8. The ULTIMATE Obstacle Course for Young Kids
You can create the best obstacle course to improve proprioceptive system, using simple objects like hula hoops, sand, water noodles, a balloon tunnel, and more. What a fun way to spend the summer! From Inspired Motherhood.
9. Super Easy Indoor Obstacle Course for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Sometimes it’s too cold to go out, but it doesn’t mean that the fun has to stop! This indoor obstacle course can be set up with really simple objects, and kids will stay active instead of watching TV. From More Naps.
10. Escape the Volcano Shape Game
This game is so fun and helps so many different skills, like color recognition, shape names, counting, singing, gross motor skills, using a full sentence, answering simple questions, and following directions. From Toddler Approved.
Want more activities for toddlers? Try these from Kids Activities Blog:
Did you like these vestibular activities for toddlers? Which one was your toddler’s favorite activity?