Gross Motor Skills · 3–7

Does your child fall often or struggle to keep up with other kids?

If your child seems clumsy, avoids playground activities, or struggles with running and balance, you are not alone — and support can make a big difference.

Cute little Asian 2 years old toddler baby boy child having fun trying to climb on jungle gym at indoor playground, Physical, Hand and Eye Coordination, Sensory, Motor Skills development concept

Many children need a little extra support with movement.

This does not mean something is wrong. It simply means they may need help building strength, coordination and confidence.

With the right support, children can move, play and keep up with peers — and feel proud doing it.

Signs you may be seeing

These are common patterns that suggest your child may benefit from extra support with their movement skills.

  • Frequent falling
  • Trouble running smoothly
  • Difficulty jumping
  • Avoiding climbing or playgrounds
  • Poor balance
  • Tires quickly
  • Struggles to keep up with peers

What are gross motor skills?

Gross motor skills are the big body movements children use every day. If these are harder than expected, it may be a gross motor delay.

1

Running

2

Jumping

3

Climbing

4

Balancing

5

Kicking and throwing

What causes this?

Often it is a combination of factors — and rarely one single cause.

1

Premature birth

2

Muscle tone differences

3

Coordination challenges

4

Past illness or injury

5

Natural variation in development

6

Limited movement opportunities

How pediatric physical therapy helps

We help children build strength, balance, coordination and confidence — all delivered through fun, engaging play.

Assessing how your child moves through play

Identifying exactly where support is needed

Using fun, play based activities to build strength

Teaching you simple ways to help at home

Supporting milestones like running, jumping, and climbing

Building your confidence as a parent

What treatment looks like

Every plan is personalized to your child — but typically includes:

Balance training

Helping your child stay steady on their feet during play and daily activities.

Strength development

Building the foundation muscles for running, jumping and climbing.

Coordination exercises

Improving how the body moves together for smoother movement.

Movement confidence

Removing fear and building belief through small, achievable wins.

Parent guided activities

Simple things you can do at home to support progress.

Personalised plan

Tailored to your child's age, stage and interests.

Why early support matters

Early support helps children:

  • Keep up with peers
  • Avoid frustration
  • Build confidence in movement
  • Enjoy play and sports

What's typical for ages 3 to 7?

If any of these feel difficult for your child, support can help.

Run without frequent falls

Jump with both feet

Balance briefly on one foot

Climb and explore playgrounds

What to expect when you start

A clear, caring journey from first conversation to confident progress.

  1. 1

    Discovery Visit

    A relaxed conversation where we understand your concerns and give initial guidance.

  2. 2

    Full Evaluation

    We assess your child's strength, balance and coordination through play.

  3. 3

    Goal Setting

    Clear goals such as smoother running, jumping or playground confidence.

  4. 4

    Plan Of Care

    A tailored plan using proven techniques and engaging activities.

  5. 5

    Treatment Sessions

    Fun, play based sessions focused on real progress.

  6. 6

    Outcome

    Your child moving, playing and keeping up with confidence.

Help your child move, play and keep up with confidence

If you have noticed your child struggling with balance, running or playground activities, the best next step is to get it checked early.