It is true that kids have brains like sponges. Especially young children between the ages of one to three. Because toddlers absorb new things fast, parents should make the most of this stage. They can help their kids achieve their full learning potential. You should choose activities that are both fun and educational for your little ones. By selecting the right kind of activities, you help boost your child’s physical, emotional and cognitive skills.  Below is a list of some fun and educational activities you can try with your toddler.

Cookie cutter painting

The cookie cutter painting activity is perfect for toddlers who love to play with colors. It is simple and fun. You only need cookie cutters, paint in different colors, a large sheet of white paper and trays for the paint. Pour the paint on to different trays and have these trays placed on top of a long sheet of paper. Let your toddler make use of the cookie cutters as stamps from the paint trays to the paper. Doing this will develop your little one’s fine motor skills as they try to get a good grip of the cutters. This is also a perfect opportunity to introduce them to basic colors.

Simon Says

Simon Says is an excellent game for teaching kids how to listen and follow instructions. This game can be played one-on-one or with a group of kids. The mechanics are easy. You play the role of Simon and all you have to do is to give out commands or instructions such as, “Simon says raise your hand!” or “Simon says hop like a frog!” They should only follow commands starting  with Simon Says. Instructions without this phrase shouldn’t be followed. If they do, they are eliminated. Try this game to help improve your child’s listening skills and concentration while having fun!

Scavenger hunt

A scavenger hunt is another exciting game your kids will love! Send them hunting for objects around the house based on your specific commands. For example, you can say, “Find me something soft” or “Find me something colorful”. You may also ask them to bring you a couple of random objects, teaching them how to identify shapes and colors. You can ask which object is round, or which one is blue.

Simple Lego Challenges

The Simple Lego Challenge is a fun and interesting game for kids. It brings out the natural creativity in children. For this activity, you will need different colorful card boards cut into rectangles. Then make them look like paper Legos by drawing small circles on one side. Flip the cards to the other side and write one secret challenge for each card. Some of the challenges may include, “Draw your favorite stuffed animal” or “Build your dream house”. Taking on each challenge will get their imagination and creativity working.

Obstacle course

A simple obstacle course is a perfect game for restless toddlers. This will help promote balance, coordination and gross motor skills in kids. If you have adequate space at home, you can set up a small course inside your living room or outside in the backyard. Your child can safely run around, roll and jump.

Puzzles

Puzzles are excellent for toddlers. They cover all aspects when it comes to their growth and development. This activity requires physical efforts as they try to make the pieces fit. The solving of the puzzle is good practice of their cognitive skills. Because they may not solve the puzzle immediately, the game is a good test of their patience. This taps into their emotional well-being. You can also squeeze in an introduction to recognizing basic shapes as they complete the puzzle.

If you’re looking for the best activities to keep your toddler busy, these are excellent ideas to try. Not only are they fun and exciting, they are also educational! If you’re looking for a preschool that offers a fun and educational toddler program, please feel free to visit Creative Learning Academy.