Follow the leader walk
1–2 yearsSuccess MindsetNo materials needed
Take turns being the leader during a short walk around your home or yard. Walk fast, walk slow, stop and go, or take big steps. Your child follows your movements and you follow theirs. This playful activity builds motor skills, body awareness, and turn-taking while getting your child moving.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Take turns being the leader during a short walk around your home or yard. Walk fast, walk slow, stop and go, or take big steps. Your child follows your movements and you follow theirs. This playful activity builds motor skills, body awareness, and turn-taking while getting your child moving.
Why It Works
Regular physical activity establishes healthy patterns that support both body and brain development. Research demonstrates that physical activity improves brain development and cognitive function (Donnelly et al., 2016). This simple walking game helps your child develop coordination and builds the foundation for lifelong healthy movement habits.
Tips for Parents
Keep movements simple and exaggerated so your child can easily copy them. Your child may only lead for a minute before wanting you to take over.
Name the movements as you do them. This helps your child connect words with actions and builds language alongside physical skills.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Hands-On ExplorationMontessori Practical Life Activities
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