Jump, Hang, Roll: Simple Daily Moves to Build Your Child’s Brain

Written by Dr. Stefanie Rodsater, Pediatric Chiropractor and Founder of Building Brilliant Brains

Want to boost your child’s brain without worksheets, flashcards, or screens?

Start with what their body was born to do:
Jump. Hang. Roll.

These aren’t just fun movements—they’re foundational brain-builders.
The best part? You can do them right at home, even in a small space.

Here’s why each one matters—and how to make it a daily part of your routine using EZPlay tools (and a few free options too!).

✅ 1. JUMPING: Brain + Bone Booster

Why it’s important:
Jumping gives the body deep proprioceptive input (which calms the nervous system) and builds strong bones + better focus.
It also supports reflex integration, which affects emotional regulation and attention.

Try this:

• 10 jumps on the floor

• Jump off a soft surface onto a mat

• Jump + stick the landing (balance challenge!)

EZPlay Tools to Use:

• Balance Board (rocker to jumper)

• Coming soon: add-on mini crash pad or trampoline

Bonus Tip: Do this after screen time or before seated learning.

✅ 2. HANGING: Grip Strength + Brain Connection

Why it’s important:
Hanging supports:

• Shoulder stability

• Grip strength

• Respiratory development (which boosts speech + language!)

• Spatial awareness

• Vestibular activation for focus

Try this:

• 10–15 seconds of bar hanging

• Swinging while supported

• Monkey bars with a helper assist

EZPlay Tools to Use:

• Koala Playset or Panda Jungle Gym with bar add-ons

• Optional: doorway bar or rope swing (if safe!)

No bar? Let them hang from your forearms, or assist from a sofa edge.

✅ 3. ROLLING: The Forgotten Brain Hack

Why it’s important:
Rolling activates:

• Core strength

• Vestibular and visual systems

• Midline crossing (critical for reading + writing)

• Primitive reflex integration

Try this:

• Log rolls down a mat or rug

• Bear hugs + barrel rolls

• Blanket burrito roll + “unroll me!” game

EZPlay Tools to Use:

• Plush Play Mat or Double-Sided Baby Mat for soft landing zones

• Use alongside the Balance Board to transition roll → rock

Bonus Tip: Pair this with music or mirror play to add multi-sensory layers.

💡 Make It a Routine

These movements don’t need to be scheduled—they just need to be accessible.

🗓 Try this:

• Morning: Jump + roll on mat before breakfast

• Afternoon: Hang + balance board challenge

• Evening: Gentle rocking on the board or rolling to decompress

Put the tools where your child can see and use them. You’ll be amazed at how often they self-initiate the movement their brain needs.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a fancy program to build your child’s brain.
You just need the right environment that invites natural movement.

Jumping, hanging, and rolling give your child:

• A regulated nervous system

• Stronger motor skills

• Better sleep and focus

• And a brain that’s wired for learning

With EZPlay tools, these brain-boosting movements become part of your child’s everyday life.

🧠 Explore our playsets, balance boards, and soft play tools to make movement-based learning happen—at home, every day.