Learning begins with play!
  • Young children need to be active to grow and develop.
  • Children need to do things over and over in order to do them well.
  • Children need to explore, try new things and discover things for themselves.
Types of play toddlers like
  • Toddlers like to copy things their parents do.
  • Toddlers like to play with toys they can push or pull.
  • Toddlers like to repeat movements or activities over and over.
  • Toddlers like to dump things out of containers.
What do toddlers like to play with?
  • Plastic or metal bowls
  • Plastic measuring cups and spoons
  • Pots and pans
  • Wooden spoons
  • Paper or plastic cups
  • Oatmeal box
  • Dress up clothes
  • Empty paper towel tubes
Games to play with your toddler:
  • Dance to music
  • Follow-the-leader
  • Hide-and-seek
  • Make believe that you are cooking, in a band, cleaning house!
Good toys for toddlers to play with:
  • Large light balls
  • Blocks
  • Push and pull toys
  • Ride on toys (push with feet)
  • Lawnmower
  • Rake
  • Broom
  • Vacuum
  • Shopping cart
Activities to do with your toddler:

Help your child to jump and land safely by grasping his or her hands while jumping from low steps or curbs.

Help them practice landing on both feet and bending their knees.

Playfully chase your child safely in the house or playground and hug your child when you catch them.

Ask your child to act like: A tree swaying in the wind; the sun rising; a cat arching its back; a train chugging along the track; a butterfly in the sky.

Remember, your relationship with your baby is the first and most important one! Your baby is counting on you to play with them! Make time to play with your child every day!
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