Move, Cross, Grow!
Introduction
Crossing the midline is an important skill that develops in early childhood and supports how children move, learn, and process information. The “midline” is the imaginary line down the center of the body. When children cross it—by reaching across their body with a hand, foot, or eye—they are helping both sides of their brain work together. This coordination is essential for skills like writing, reading, dressing, and participating in classroom activities. The good news is that children don’t need special exercises to develop this skill. Simple movement games, songs, and rhymes naturally encourage midline crossing in fun and playful ways.
Gather Materials
- Open space to move
- Familiar songs or rhymes
- Optional: scarves, bean bags, or soft balls
Note: Small parts pose a choking hazard and are not appropriate for children age five or under. Be sure to choose lesson materials that you feel are safe for your child and that you are comfortable letting your child use.
Activity
Invite your child to play games that encourage reaching across their body. Try clapping games, action songs, or rhymes that include touching the opposite hand to knee, foot, or shoulder. Tossing a ball from one hand to the other, reaching across to grab a scarf, or drawing big shapes in the air with one hand are all simple ways to practice. Keep it light and playful—sing along, move together, and follow your child’s lead.
- “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” Touch opposite shoulder, knee, or toes to cross the midline.
- “Pat-a-Cake” Clapping hands together, alternating across the body.
- “The Wheels on the Bus” Add arm movements that cross over (e.g., reaching right hand across to left side for “swish swish swish”).
- “Itsy Bitsy Spider” Move fingers and hands across the body to mimic the spider climbing.
- “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” Add hand or arm motions that reach across the body as stars “shine.”
If you would like to read more about crossing the midline and games that promote it, check out our blogs on Early Science Matters,Crossing the Midline for STEM Learners, and Midline Activities for Brain Development.