The trajectory schema: how your child learns by throwing, dropping, and flinging

Of all the play schemas your toddler explores, the “trajectory” schema may be your least favorite 🙃 Children learn so much about the physical world by throwing, dropping, rolling, and flinging things—including their own body. It can get a little bit annoying, but there are ways to redirect this kind of schema play to make it less destructive. 

3 ways to support your toddler’s trajectory schema

1. Give them better things to throw. If your toddler is throwing food, rocks, sand, or something else inappropriate, redirect them to items like light scarves, soft balls, light plastic balls, small bean bags, or a small stuffed animal.

2. Let them play with water* Set up a baby pool outdoors and give your toddler cups and other objects to throw in to make a splash. They can also pour water into the tub or kitchen sink from a cup or small pitcher. Even a simple water sensory tray works well, with a few pouring tools. 

3. Give them fun ways to move their body. Part of the trajectory schema is exploring the way their own body moves, so provide your toddler with opportunities to tumble, roll, jump, crawl, bounce, swing, and more. 

*Note: Please supervise your toddler at all times around water, as it’s possible for them to drown in less than 1 inch of water.