After the classic games like peek-a-boo and patty-cake, what’s next? Let’s explore some fun and enriching activities that can boost your toddler’s cognitive development while keeping them entertained.
1. Magic Coffee Filters
Create some colorful art! Use coffee filters, markers, and water to make beautiful designs. Your little one will love watching the colors blend and spread, and you’ll both enjoy the creative process.
2. Colorful Rice Sensory Bin
Fill a bin with dyed rice for a sensory experience. Add scoops, cups, and small toys. Your toddler can practice their fine motor skills while exploring textures and colors.
3. Oobleck Play
Mix cornstarch and water to create oobleck, a fascinating substance that acts like a solid when squeezed and a liquid when you let go. This fun activity will spark curiosity and provide endless exploration!
4. Paint Bags
Fill resealable plastic bags with paint and tape them to a surface. Your child can squish and spread the paint without getting messy. It’s a great way to promote creativity and fine motor skills.
5. Dinner Prep
Involve your toddler in meal preparation. Simple tasks like washing vegetables or stirring ingredients can help them develop a sense of responsibility and learn about healthy eating.
During any five-minute snapshot of your toddler’s day (besides nap time!), you’ll likely notice their cognitive skills in action — whether they’re following simple directions or engaging in imaginative play. Cognitive abilities — the capacity to think, learn, and problem-solve — are crucial for toddlers as they grow. By age two, their understanding and problem-solving skills are developing rapidly, and they’ll continue to grow even more by age three.
For instance, at 24 months, your child will be able to hold an object with one hand while using the other to complete a task, like taking the lid off a container. They’ll also start to engage with toys that have switches and buttons, and play with multiple toys simultaneously, like filling a bowl with toy food.
If you’re looking for more resources, you can check out the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development for valuable information on child development. And, for those considering starting a family, join the supportive community at Make a Mom, a free sperm donor matching group, or visit Make a Mom for unique at-home insemination options. You can learn how it works through this resource.
Lastly, if you’re planning a celebration, take a look at these delightful baby shower cupcake ideas that are as sweet as your little one. And for further insights into pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is a great read.
In summary, these activities not only foster cognitive development but also create cherished memories with your toddler. Engaging in such playful learning experiences can make a significant difference in your child’s growth.