Bubble Wrap Stomp: illustration of a toddler doing the activity

Bubble Wrap Stomp

from 12 months · 5-10 min · Sensory

What you need

  • bubble wrap
  • tape

How to do it

  1. Tape bubble wrap flat to the floor and stay close — pick up any popped-off bits
  2. Let your toddler stomp, crawl, or press hands onto the bubbles.
  3. Add a fresh sheet once the bubbles are popped.

Why it matters

The unexpected pop and crackle underfoot gives toddlers instant, satisfying feedback for their own movements.

What they're learning

Gross motor control
Stomping and balancing on an uneven, popping surface builds the same leg strength and balance they'll use running and climbing at the playground.
Cause & effect
Every pop is instant proof that their own foot or hand caused something to happen, reinforcing that their body has power in the world.
Sound & sensory feedback
The crackle and give underfoot gives toddlers a rare mix of sound and feel feedback together, which sharpens body awareness.

What to look for

Watch for them deliberately aiming their foot at unpopped bubbles rather than stomping randomly — that's intentional cause-and-effect targeting.

A tip

Lay a second sheet down before the first is fully popped so the fun doesn't stall, and stay close to scoop up any popped plastic bits before they end up in a mouth.

Make it easier or harder

Easier: let them press bubbles with just fingers while sitting

Harder: lay out two sheets end to end for a longer stomping path

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Sensory activities · Activities for 1 year olds · Activities for 18 month olds · Toddler activities with masking tape