Its very common once your child is up on their feet they just want to run around which as a parent at class can sometimes have you on edge but this is natural energy and all part of their healthy development.
The Benefits of Running & Free Movement
Physical Development Strengthens muscles, improves balance, and builds coordination.
Cognitive Growth
Movement stimulates brain development and helps with learning.
Emotional Confidence
Feeling safe enough to run in shows trust in the environment and caregivers.
Social Skills
They’re eager to engage with their peers and the class activities.
When a toddler runs around during class instead of engaging in activities, it’s completely normal and part of their development.
Here’s why it happens and how it can actually be beneficial:
Why Do Toddlers Run During Class?
Exploring Their Environment Toddlers learn through movement, and running around helps them understand the space and feel in control.
Attention Span is Short
At this stage, toddlers have a limited attention span. They may engage for a bit, then need to move before refocusing.
Sensory & Energy Needs
Some toddlers need extra movement to process information. Running helps them regulate their bodies.
Developing Self-Regulation
They’re still learning how to follow structured activities, and it takes time.
Testing Boundaries
Running can be a way of experimenting with independence and seeing how adults respond.
The Benefits of This Behaviour
Gross Motor Development Running builds strength, coordination, and balance.
Self-Expression
Movement is a toddler’s natural way of communicating emotions and curiosity.
Learning Through Movement
Some children process information better when they’re moving.
Building Independence
Exploring at their own pace helps them feel more confident and secure.
How we gently encourage participation
Incorporate Movement
Activities with action songs, jumping, or dancing help engage active toddlers.
Use Props & Hands-On Engagement
Scarves, instruments, or bubbles can capture their attention.
Follow Their Lead
Sometimes, letting them move freely for a bit helps them settle into the activity.
Positive Reinforcement
From parents we find encouraging words like
“I love how you’re moving!
Let’s try this together!” can help kids settle too
Arriving at class & your child running ahead or rushing into class?
Toddlers running into a class full speed ahead is actually a great sign of healthy development!
Here’s why they do it and the benefits:
Excitement & Curiosity
They’re eager to explore, engage, and see what’s happening. Everything is new and fun!
Developing Independence
Running ahead shows confidence and a sense of security in the environment.
Energy to Burn
Toddlers have boundless energy, and movement is their natural way of expressing it.
Impulse Control is Still Developing
At this stage, they don’t yet have the ability to pause and assess before acting—they just go!
Sensory Seeking
Children crave movement and stimulation, and running helps meet that need.
At Coco’s Moo Music, movement is celebrated! If a toddler is running around, they’re still learning, exploring, and developing in their own way.
The key is to create an engaging space where they feel safe to participate when they’re ready.
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