Up to the Slide: illustration of a toddler doing the activity

Up to the Slide

from 24 months · 5-10 min · Gross motor

What you need

  • the playground steps up to a small slide

How to do it

  1. At a toddler slide, stand beside the steps.
  2. Let them climb holding the side rail, one hand on you if they want it.
  3. Stay close all the way to the top.
  4. Let them come down the slide, then go round again.

Why it matters

The slide at the top gives them a reason to climb, so they want to do the steps again and again.

What they're learning

Climbing with a rail
Playground rails are at their height, so they can grip properly.
Stepping up
Short steps up to the slide are a real climb.
Wanting another go
The slide makes the climb worth repeating.

What to look for

Watch for them heading straight back to the steps after the slide.

A tip

Pick a slide made for toddlers and stay within reach on the steps.

Make it easier or harder

Easier: hold their hand as well as the rail

Harder: let them use just the rail while you stand behind

More like this

Browse

Gross motor activities · Activities for 2 year olds

Get this plan in the app App Store Google Play