Rolling, rolling, rolling – keep that body rolling

What you need 

• A large piece of fabric, like a picnic blanket or bed cover 
• Two adults 

What to do 

1. Lay the fabric on the floor and invite your toddler to lie along one edge of it.  
2. Adults should stand at opposite ends of the fabric, to each side of the toddler.  
3. The adult who is nearest the toddler pulls up the length of fabric and rolls the toddler to the other side. 
4. Before they reach the end, the other adult picks up the fabric and rolls them back. 

Begin cautiously. Check for safety, comfort and enjoyment before picking up speed. 

*This activity can be carried out in a shop-bought tunnel. Invite your toddler to lie down in it while an adult rocks the tunnel back and forth.  

Good to know 

Rocking and spinning are vital for the vestibular system. These movements help toddlers to develop a strong sense of body awareness and learn how to coordinate both sides of their bodies. 

Toddlers who spin are better able to find their balance, figure out where they are in their space and focus on an activity for extended lengths of time.