Crossing the midline activities for kids
When writing, one hand holds the paper and the other guides the pencil. Getting dressed, riding a bike or catching a ball all need both sides of the body to work together. When an arm reaches across the middle of the body, occupational therapists call it “crossing the midline”. Kids with lots of energy or wobbly coordination often find this hard.
The 8 movement activities in this area practice exactly these patterns: cross crawls in a marching rhythm, big lazy eights in the air, rhythms with both hands or an arrow course on the floor. They suit children from age 3 and take 2 to 8 minutes.
6 activities come with a printable template, the others only need some space or a small ball. Many work well as a brain break before learning or as a warm-up before a table activity.
Movement is good for children with ADHD. Studies find signs of better impulse control and attention, especially with movement that also challenges the mind. These activities are play and practice at home and do not replace occupational therapy.
Source: Song et al. 2023, PLOS One
The exercises
- 3Brain LoopOne big open loop, traced in a single slow movement.
- 4Block BeatTap the blocks from top to bottom, like reading sheet music.
- 5Two-Hand PathGreen pieces belong to the left hand, blue ones to the right.
- 6Big Air ShapesDraw shapes in the air with a straight arm while the eyes follow the hand.
- 7Mirror DrawingDraw the same shape with both hands at once, left and right.
- 12Arrow CourseLay the arrow sheets on the floor and jump the path.
- 19Cross Crawl MarchElbow meets the opposite knee in a calm marching rhythm.
- 20Ball Figure EightPass a small ball around the knees in a figure eight.
Frequently asked questions
Are these occupational therapy exercises?
The activities are based on games used in occupational therapy and checked against sources from OT and research. They do not replace occupational therapy. If your child is already in treatment, feel free to show them to the therapist.
How much space do we need?
For most activities a few steps in every direction is enough. Clear away obstacles and sharp edges and play on a non-slip floor.