Toddlers, for example, are trying to learn to walk, talk, build attachments to their peers and their caregivers and parallel play alongside their peers. How can we help? We can provide:
Physical
Large, open spaces to crawl, walk, run, climb and jump
Stairs with a handrail for balancing
Chunky crayons, paintbrushes, chalk and large sheets of paper
Manipulative toys like wooden puzzles, small and large foam or plastic blocks, string and large beads
Sensory items like play dough, water play or finger paints
Cognitive/Intellectual
Naming objects and repeating words with the children
Time for exploring and playing without being interrupted
Finger plays or short songs
Active and expressive storytelling
Emotional
Face to face and on-on-one interactions
Reassuring, gentle and comforting reactions to children in distress
Meeting children’s needs in a timely manner
Allowing for the chance to make simple choices and having a sense of control
Social
Having multiple toys of same kind as children this age can’t share or learn to take turns yet
Reading books aloud and encouraging engaging in and talking about the story
Teaching self-care skills and encouraging independence
Naming and identifying feelings and how to express them
Creative
Having simple dress-up clothes or costumes for role-playing
Chunky crayons, paintbrushes, chalk & large sheets of paper
Simple finer plays, actions songs and musical instruments
Freedom to choose activities without adult interference
