8mo–20mo10 minFree playActive playFamily time
Push-and-Go Path (Indoors/Outdoors)
A short pushing game using a stable push toy (or a safe household alternative) to help your child practise standing balance and stepping forward on a clear path.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a stable push-along toy (if you have one) OR a sturdy empty laundry basket/box to push (adult supervised)
- a clear path (indoors hallway or flat outdoor space) with hazards removed
- 2 ‘destination’ markers (cushions, shoes, or toys)
- close adult supervision (stay within arm’s reach)
Nice to have
- a book or towel inside the basket/box to add a little weight (only if it makes it steadier, not tippy)
- masking tape or chalk to mark a simple line path
- a soft ball to roll as an extra destination
Movement level: mild
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneAssisted walkingBody· 9mo–12mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneStands while holding supportBody· 9mo–18mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneTakes first independent stepsBody· 12mo–15mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestonePulls to standBody· 8mo–13mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCrawls or scoots for floor mobilityBody· 7mo–12mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneCruises along furnitureBody· 10mo–15mo· stretch
- MilestoneUses objects functionallyMind· 10mo–15mo· stretch· Step 2
What it practices
- Crawls, bottom shuffles or rolls continuously to move around.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Walks around furniture lifting one foot and stepping sideways (cruising), and walks with one or both hands held by adult.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Takes first few steps independently.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide push-along toys and trundle trikes indoors and out.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)