No matter the age of their young child, parents are always asking, “What should my child be doing physically right now? Are they on track?”. Even at the age of 3 and 4 years old, when they’re well past the baby stage, children are still learning and progressing. So, I wanted to provide some information for the expected gross motor milestones for 3 and 4 year olds.
This is such a fun and dynamic age for gross motor development. Between the ages of 3 and 4, kids start moving with more intention, balance, and coordination. They’re not just running around anymore; they’re perfecting and testing limits with how they run, jump, climb, and play. Let’s break down some key milestones you can expect during this stage and how you can support them through purposeful play.
What to Expect
Between ages 3 and 4, you’ll likely see your child begin to:
- Walk down stairs with alternating feet — without needing to hold the railing for every step.
- Stand on one foot for at least 5 seconds — a great sign of developing balance.
- Hop forward on one foot and in place — on both sides, showing emerging coordination and strength.
- Jump forward 26–30 inches using both feet — a fun skill to watch during games and obstacle courses.
- Run with improved form — more controlled and able to stop without falling.
- Pedal a tricycle or bike with training wheels — indicating leg strength and motor planning.
- Balance while walking on a line — like a mini tightrope walker!
- Catch a ball using hands — rather than trapping it against their body.
- Toss a ball accurately with an underhand or overhand throw — aiming toward targets.
Each of these milestones reflects not just strength, but balance, motor planning, and body awareness — all critical components of a child’s physical development.
Purposeful Play Ideas to Support Gross Motor Growth
Gross motor development doesn’t require fancy equipment — just intention, encouragement, and a bit of creativity. Here are some of my favorite ways to build confidence in 3 and 4 years olds:
- Chalk Obstacle Course: Use sidewalk chalk to draw lines that kids walk, run, hop, and skip along. Add curves, zigzags, and short straightaways for variety.
- Stair Puzzle Game: Place a puzzle board at the bottom of the stairs and pieces at the top. Let your child walk up and down, alternating feet, to retrieve pieces and complete the puzzle.
- Bike Pedal Practice Hack: Not ready to ride outside yet? Try elevating the back wheel by placing the training wheels in an old pair of shoes. Now you have a stationary bike to safely practice pedaling indoors.
- Balance Challenges: Have your child walk along a taped line indoors or a crack in the sidewalk, pretending they’re on a tightrope. Try adding objects to step over or to carry, or provide hats to wear for added fun and complexity.
- Ball Play: Toss balls into laundry baskets, knock down plastic cups, or practice underhand throws to hit chalk targets on a wall.
Why This Matters
Gross motor skills don’t just prepare your child for sports or playground success — they support focus, independence, self-regulation, and confidence. A child who can move confidently is more likely to engage with their environment, interact with peers, and try new things. And remember — all kids develop at their own pace. If you’re noticing delays or aren’t sure if your child is meeting their motor milestones, it’s okay to reach out. Pediatric physical therapists like me are here to guide you, and trust me - outside sessions on the playground or with chalk obstacle courses are some of my favorite sessions!
If you’re looking for more resources, playful ideas, or a personalized assessment, contact us or follow along on Instagram @milestonesatplay.
