Large muscle movement and gross motor development are essential for preschool-aged children. Regular exercise of the large muscles improves movement and balance, and getting children moving and participating in regular physical fitness activities helps to reduce the occurrence of childhood obesity and reduces the risk of injury. The exercise doesn't have to be boring -- through basic games and activities, young children can work these muscles in fun and engaging ways. Always supervise or participate with children performing physical activities.

Jumping Exercises

Preschoolers love to move and jump. Various jumping exercises work the large muscles in the lower body. Simple exercises like jumping jacks or jump rope work well for this. Another fun option uses hula-hoops. Place the hoops close together across the yard or gym. Have the children jump or hop from one hoop to another. As a challenge, move the hoops farther apart.

Upper Body Exercises

Running and jumping are common activities for small children. However, this leaves the upper body missing out. Working the arms, shoulders and back are essential activities as well. Throwing a ball, bouncing a ball and even balloon toss games are great ways to get the upper body moving. In addition to large muscle movement, these exercises and games increase hand-eye coordination.

Games

Traditional children’s games like Duck, Duck, Goose and Red Light, Green Light are fun and engaging for small children. At the same time, these games work the large muscles in the body. In Duck, Duck, Goose, children have to jump up, run around in circles and sit back down. In Red Light, Green Light, quick bursts of running and stopping work the leg muscles. For variations, you can use yellow lights for walking backwards or doing side steps to target different muscles in the legs.

Considerations

Keeping exercise fun is essential for small children. It keeps them engaged and wanting to get active. Participating in these activities with them is a great way to spend family time together and all get active and moving. Do not limit yourself to traditional games and activities. Get creative and have them help you make up your own games. Obstacle courses are a great way to do this. Preschoolers can help come up with ideas for the obstacle course. Things like crawling, climbing and running all work the large muscle groups and are perfect activities to include.

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