Conquering Stairs I
Parent guides toddler up stairs while holding hands, practicing alternating feet and building coordination. The agent coaches the parent to observe stair-climbing technique, balance with support, and motor planning — strengthening gross motor skills and confidence on stairs.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Safe staircase with 3-4 steps, clear of obstacles. Parent should be able to stand beside child and hold hands. Ensure good lighting and non-slip surfaces.
How it works
- 1~40s
Let's start with some playful foot awareness. Stand facing your child and say 'Show me your feet!' Then point to your own feet and say 'These are my feet!' Now hold your child's hands gently and lift one of their feet, then the other, in an alternating pattern — left, right, left, right — while saying the words. Watch your child's face and body. Does they seem to understand the alternating pattern? Does they try to lift their feet when you say the words? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Toddler shows coordinated foot movement and understanding of alternating pattern during supported standing play.
- 2~50s
Now let's approach the stairs. Hold your child's hand firmly — you can hold just one hand if they uses the rail with the other. Stand beside them on the same step. Say 'Up we go!' and take the first step together, emphasizing 'Left foot up... now right foot up.' Go slowly, one step at a time. Watch your child's technique. Does they alternate feet naturally, or does they want to bring both feet to each step? How is their balance with your support?
Watch for: Toddler climbs stairs with support, showing alternating foot pattern (one foot per step) rather than bringing both feet together on each step.
- 3~45s
Let's try one more ascent, but this time, pay close attention to your child's balance and planning. As you go up, notice if they looks at the next step before moving their foot. Does they shift their weight smoothly from one foot to the other? Also, watch what happens when you reach the top — does your child understand to stop, or does they try to keep going? These details show motor planning and body awareness.
Watch for: Toddler shows motor planning and balance control during supported stair ascent, indicating readiness for descending with support.