When a child is working on strength, balance, or coordination, short movement activities at home can support the progress they’re making in physical therapy. These exercises do not replace therapy sessions, but they can help reinforce motor skills in a familiar, low-pressure environment.
At Esperanza Children’s Therapy in Southern New Mexico, our physical therapists often share simple activities families can safely practice at home to support gross motor development and confidence.
Below are three physical therapy exercises you can try at home with your child.
Standing Balance Holds
What this supports: Balance, core strength, and body awareness
Have your child stand with feet shoulder-width apart and practice holding their balance for short periods. You can make this more engaging by turning it into a game.
Ways to try it:
- Ask your child to stand “as still as a statue”
- Count out loud together to see how long they can hold
- Have them balance while reaching for a toy
As balance improves, you can gently increase the challenge by asking them to stand on one foot for a few seconds at a time.
Step-Ups on a Low Surface
What this supports: Leg strength, coordination, and confidence with movement
Use a sturdy step, curb, or bottom stair. Have your child step up with one foot, then bring the other foot up, and step back down slowly.
Helpful tips:
- Encourage slow, controlled movements
- Switch which foot leads
- Stay close for safety and support
Step-ups help build strength needed for walking, climbing, and playground activities.
Ball Rolling and Catching
What this supports: Coordination, balance, and motor planning
Sit or stand facing your child and roll a ball back and forth. As skills improve, you can progress to gentle tossing.
You can increase difficulty by:
- Rolling the ball slightly to the side
- Changing speeds
- Asking your child to stop the ball before rolling it back
This activity strengthens coordination while encouraging focus and movement control.
Why Home Practice Matters
Physical therapy progress builds with consistency. Even a few minutes of movement practice each day can help children feel more confident using their bodies. At Esperanza, our physical therapists work closely with families to suggest activities that fit naturally into daily routines, so therapy feels manageable and supportive.
Ready to Support Your Child’s Movement at Home?
If you’re exploring physical therapy for children in Las Cruces or Anthony, Esperanza Children’s Therapy is here to help. Our team provides individualized, play-based physical therapy designed to support each child’s unique movement needs.
Call us at (575) 647-3773 or visit aitkids.com/esperanza to schedule an evaluation and learn how we can support your child’s strength, balance, and confidence.
Additional Resources
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) – Pediatric Physical Therapy – https://pediatricapta.org/
- HealthyChildren.org – Physical Therapy for Children – https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx
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