Jumping

What’s happening

Jumping with both feet off the ground takes real coordination and leg strength, and it typically clicks well after running and climbing are established. Early attempts often look like one foot leaving the ground a beat before the other, or a big stomp rather than real air — that's the normal lead-up, not a wrong version of it.

How to support it

• Start low — jumping off a low step or a sturdy stool with a spotting hand is easier than jumping in place at first.
• A rolled-up towel or a taped line on the floor gives something to jump 'over,' which is often easier than jumping straight up.
• Modeling helps — jump with them and narrate it ('ready, set, jump!') so the timing becomes a game, not an instruction.