unplugged play

Here are some suggestions of activities
to help your child grow.

Play Outdoors

Picture











1. Play in the dirt. Children might enjoy driving toy trucks or mixing up a mud pie.

2. Go for a walk or a hike. It is fine to use a pack or stroller, but try to provide some time for the toddler to explore more independently too.

3. Start and care for a small garden. This can be just a small window box if that is all you have room or time for.

4. Go to the park- slides, swings, sandbox, and just open area are great for development.

5.Have time to just "be" in nature. There are new smells, sights, sounds, and textures outside. Allow safe exploration of these new experiences.

Play
Indoors

Picture











1. Pretend play- dolls, stuffed animals, vet, cooking, tea party, and cars are all good examples of what you can play.

2. Art -  paint, crayons, glue, and scissors are all important to experience as a toddler.

3. Build a tent with blankets- so many games can come out of this.

4. Make music together. If you do not have instruments make them out of household materials.


5. Encourage your child to be a "Helper" with mealtimes and cleaning or other simple chores.

Explore
Literacy

Picture











1. Visit the library- look for story times or other toddler groups to join.

2. Reread a favorite book - It is normal and healthy to read the same book "100 times."

3. Recite Nursery Rhymes. Encourage your child to say them with you and fill in rhyming words.

4. Sing songs with hand motions.

5. Talk with your child often- This can happen throughout all daily activities; diaper changing, bath, play, cooking, and shopping just to name a few.

Resources for Play Ideas

Songs to sing with children
http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/games/songs/childrens/index.htm
Nursery Rhymes to recite with children
http://www.nursery-rhymes.org/
Ideas for homemade Instruments
http://www.busybeekidscrafts.com/Homemade-Musical-Instruments.html