Teaching Your Toddler to Jump

Building confidence and coordination through progressive movement skills

Understanding Jumping Development

Jumping is a complex motor skill that requires coordination, balance, strength, and timing. Most toddlers begin attempting to jump around 18-24 months, with true jumping skills developing between 2-3 years old.

🦘 Jumping Development Timeline
  • 18-24 months: Bouncing, stepping off low surfaces
  • 2-2.5 years: Jumping in place with both feet
  • 2.5-3 years: Jumping forward, over small objects
  • 3-4 years: Jumping with distance and direction control

Prerequisites for Jumping

Physical Readiness
  • Stable walking and running skills
  • Ability to stand on one foot briefly
  • Good balance and body awareness
  • Sufficient leg strength for propulsion
Safety Preparation
  • Clear, safe practice area free of obstacles
  • Appropriate footwear with good grip
  • Soft landing surfaces when possible
  • Adult supervision for all jumping activities
Safety First: Always ensure the jumping area is safe and appropriate for your toddler's skill level. Start with very low heights and progress gradually.

Progressive Teaching Steps

Step 1: Marching and Bouncing
  • March in place, lifting knees high
  • Hold hands and bounce together
  • Jump on a mini trampoline with support
  • Dance to music with bouncing movements
Step 2: Stepping Down
  • Step down from low steps or curbs
  • Jump down from bottom stair step
  • Practice on playground equipment
  • Use cushions or mats for soft landings
Step 3: Jumping in Place
  • Demonstrate jumping motion slowly
  • Help child bend knees and "spring up"
  • Practice on different surfaces
  • Celebrate any lifting of feet off ground
Patience Tip: True jumping (both feet leaving ground simultaneously) may take weeks or months to develop. Celebrate all attempts and progress.

Fun Jumping Activities

Creative Games
  • "Jump like a bunny" animal movements
  • Jumping over tape lines on the floor
  • Hopscotch with large, simple squares
  • Jumping to reach hanging objects
Music and Movement
  • Jump to the beat of favorite songs
  • Action songs with jumping movements
  • "Popcorn" jumping game
  • Follow-the-leader with various jumps
🎯 Making Jumping Fun

The key is to make jumping feel like play rather than exercise. Use imagination, music, and games to keep your toddler engaged and motivated to practice.