Photo credit: Shutterstock
Sure, play gym sessions are great for little one to build on their physical development skills. But there are activities you can do with them at home – absolutely free and does not take much time to prepare either!
These games are great for toddlers from 18 months and up. They’re fun ways to develop communication, gross and fine motor skills, problem-solving skills, self-control and social skills. The usual suspects to promote healthy and interactive kids!
So let’s get moving! Engage, bond and most importantly, have loads of fun!
Stretch
No extreme yoga experience required here! Stretch like a tall tree, keeping your legs straight and bend down to touch your toes. Stretch your arms out wide and reach from one side to the other. Next, sit down and position your legs into a diamond position, have her bend down to smell her little stinky feet.
Place masking tape in a squiggly line on the floor
Balance, walk along or jump over it! Any coloured wide tape that won’t stain or is hard to peel off the floor will do. This is a great confidence booster once she is able to accomplish it!
Follow the leader
Toddlers love to imitate! Start small with clapping your hands, making faces or moving around like a specific animal. Get your family members involved too! And if your little one wants to be the leader, by all means encourage him to!
Hide and seek
This might take a few practice rounds as this game is thrilling for most kids and they sometimes get too excited to stand still or be quiet. Count to 10 with eyes closed and hide behind furniture or corners. Be sure to lock all forbidden areas though! Keep safety in mind with this one.
Dance!
Turn on your favourite song, YouTube channel or radio and be silly! Eventually use the pause or mute button for a fun game of freeze dance.
Throw clothes into the laundry basket
Do it a few times to get them started! Start with the basket close to them and once they are comfortable with the objective and motion, slide the basket a little further. Praise and clap every time it goes it to encourage them!
Keep the balloons in the air
Be prepared, this is a high-energy one! Inflate 4 to 6 balloons and try to keep all of them in the air for as long as possible. Tap, pat and swat it! Ensure there is a spacious area to play and no sharp objects are in the way.
For more pregnancy and childcare tips, subscribe to our mailing list and like us on Facebook, to receive new articles for mummies like you every week!
