Reindeer Hop

What you need

• masking tape to make a row of crosses on the floor

How to do it

1. Stick a row of tape crosses on the floor, a small jump apart.
2. Pop an antler headband on your toddler if you have one, put your hands on your head for antlers, and turn into reindeer together.
3. Jump from cross to cross with both feet together, all the way to the end.
4. Trot back, then try galloping, tiptoeing and big stomping hooves.

Why it matters

Jumping with both feet together is a big new skill around now, and being a reindeer gives every jump a reason.

What they're learning

Two-footed jumping

Taking off and landing on both feet at once takes balance and strong legs.

Moving in different ways

Trot, gallop, tiptoe and stomp each ask the body to move a new way.

Pretend

Being a reindeer for a few minutes is early make-believe.

What to look for

Watch for both feet leaving the floor at the same time, even for a tiny jump.

A tip

Clear a space away from the tree and any sharp corners, and jump in bare feet on a floor that isn't slippery.

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