From catching a ball to climbing stairs, coordination is at the heart of how children learn to move, play, and interact with the world around them. But you don’t need flashcards or formal lessons to help kids develop coordination — the best tool is play. When toys are thoughtfully designed to engage both the brain and body, children naturally improve their balance, timing, and motor control while having fun.

At Little Tikes, our toys are built with movement and learning in mind. Below, we’ll explore the best toys for building coordination and how to use them to support healthy development at home — indoors or out.

What Is Coordination and Why Does It Matter?

Coordination is the ability to use different parts of the body together smoothly and efficiently. It includes:

• Hand-eye coordination – Tracking and reacting, like catching or hitting a ball
• Bilateral coordination – Using both sides of the body at once (e.g., pedaling, pushing, or steering)
• Balance and body awareness – Maintaining posture and knowing where the body is in space

Strong coordination skills lead to better physical ability, more confidence in motion, improved cognitive function, and greater readiness for school activities like writing, cutting, and sports.

Top Toys That Teach Coordination Through Play

1. Totsports™ Easy Score Basketball Set

Encourages aim, timing, and bilateral coordination. As kids practice shooting and retrieving the ball, they also improve gross motor strength and hand-eye tracking.

• Adjustable height for growing kids
• Oversized ball for easier grip
• Use indoors or outdoors

2. Totsports™ T-Ball Set

Teaches hand-eye coordination, swinging mechanics, and controlled body movement. Great for solo or sibling play.

• Helps children track moving objects and time their swing
• Adjustable tee height grows with the child
• All pieces store easily in the base

3. 4-in-1 Deluxe Trike with Dash

Riding a trike builds whole-body coordination. Kids learn to steer, balance, and eventually pedal independently.

• Stages include push-trike, training, and full independence
• Includes interactive dashboard for sensory stimulation
• Supports spatial awareness and limb coordination

4. Learn & Play™ Learning Lane Activity Walker

Perfect for early walkers, this toy offers support while encouraging arm-leg coordination and upright posture.

• Features lights, sounds, and textures for multi-sensory play
• Develops stability and spatial awareness
• Great for ages 9–24 months

5. Rocking Horse

Simple and timeless, this toy builds balance, core strength, and rhythm — all essential for full-body coordination.

• Compact size ideal for indoor use
• Encourages motion control and body awareness
• Safe for toddlers with a low seat and easy handles

6. My First Light-Up Slide

Sliding may seem simple, but it requires climbing, balance, and timing — all great coordination practice for toddlers and preschoolers.

• Includes motion-activated LED lights
• Promotes climbing confidence and core strength
• Perfect for indoor or backyard use

7. Easy Score™ Soccer Set

Kicking, aiming, and running in rhythm help children build both coordination and cardiovascular strength. Soccer is ideal for teamwork and personal focus.

• Kid-sized ball and goal for early learners
• Improves foot-eye coordination and balance
• Use indoors or out

Everyday Play Ideas to Boost Coordination

• Set up mini obstacle courses with slides, tunnels, and balls
• Use bean bags or soft toys for throwing and catching drills
• Play “Red Light, Green Light” or “Simon Says” to promote body control
• Incorporate music and rhythm-based games to develop timing
• Model movements and play side by side for encouragement

Develop Through Play, One Move at a Time

Coordination isn't just about sports — it's essential for dressing, writing, climbing, and everyday activities. With the right toys and space to play, your child can build those skills naturally through joyful, self-guided movement.

Little Tikes toys are designed with coordination in mind, from the way kids grip a bat to how they climb a slide. Whether you’re playing in the living room or the backyard, these toys transform ordinary play into powerful growth.