Writing or Walking on 8 Shape

The figure 8 is more than just a simple shape. It’s a powerful tool for building coordination, focus, and motor control in children. Whether you’re walking on an 8 shape on the floor or writing along an 8 shape on paper, this versatile activity supports both body and brain development. Learn more and download a free printable at the bottom of the post.

WHAT IS THE FIGURE 8 SHAPE?

The figure 8 shape (or infinity loop) is a continuous path that loops around in two connected circles. When children trace or walk along the 8, they cross their body’s midline repeatedly, an important foundation for learning, attention, and movement control.

Teachers, therapists, and parents can use the 8 shape as part of sensory paths, classroom movement breaks, or fine motor warm-ups to support development through play.

BENEFITS OF WALKING ON 8 SHAPE

Walking along a taped figure 8 path on the floor is a great warm-up activity that challenges balance, coordination, and attention. You can use painter’s tape to lay it on the floor.

It helps children practice:

• Focus and attention while following a precise path.
• Coordination and balance as their body has to practice staying upright and walking on the path
• Motor planning as they navigate the curves.
• Vestibular input, helping the body learn how to move smoothly and stay upright.
• Body awareness, improving confidence and control during movement activities.

This activity can be used before writing, therapy sessions, or classroom work to help students get ready to learn.

BENEFITS OF WRITING ON 8 SHAPE

Tracing, drawing, or writing along the 8 shape engages both sides of the brain and promotes bilateral coordination. When children write or draw across the midline of their body, they strengthen visual-motor integration and hand-eye coordination.

Key benefits include:

• Cross-laterality practice (using both sides of the body together).
• Improved handwriting fluency and rhythm.
• Bilateral coordination between the dominant and assisting hands.
• Shoulder stability and endurance when the 8 is hung vertically on a wall for tracing or drawing.

Hang the 8 shape on the wall, whiteboard, or easel to encourage shoulder strengthening and upper-body control.

HOW TO USE THE RACING FIGURE 8 SHAPE

Download the free printable at the bottom of this post and turn it into a racing game!

1. Start with warm-up cues:
   • Stop: put your hand out flat like a stop sign.
   • Go: point your finger forward to begin.
2. Warm up both sides: practice switching hands while tracing the 8 shape in the air.
3. Race time!
   • Grab a marker or use your finger to trace the path of the figure 8 racing track.
   • Try moving your “car” slowly and then faster—keeping control through every curve.
   • Challenge yourself to switch hands for the second lap!

This fun fine motor race builds endurance, attention, and bilateral integration.

MORE HELPFUL ACTIVITIES

Check out these great resources from Your Therapy Source to support bilateral coordination and motor skill development:

• Free Bilateral Coordination Printable
• Metronome Coordination Video Activity
• Neurographic Art Free Printable for Self Calming