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Toddlers have a lot of energy, and finding activities for them can be a challenge. Kids of this age often get bored after a short amount of time, so short activities are often the best. Keep these four ideas in mind when you need something to do in the afternoon.
1. Have a Picnic
Even if it is the middle of winter, a picnic inside your house is a lot of fun for a toddler. Put on your fancy clothes, spread out a sheet, set out the dishes on the sheet and enjoy an afternoon snack. Some great options include fresh veggies, sandwiches and lemonade. Your child’s dolls and stuffed animals can also join in on the fun. This is also a great rainy day activity.
2. Make a Collage
Hands-on activities are an excellent way for your toddler to develop fine motor skills. Gather up a supply of card stock or another thick paper that can handle some weight. Locate some fun things to attach to the paper, such as wiggly eyes, stickers, interesting textured papers and bits of fabric, pom-poms, pipe cleaners, rhinestones, and glitter.
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A bottle of school glue, adhesive dots or glue sticks will help these fun items stick to the paper. Have your child make a shape, such as a heart, and then fill it in with these items.
3. Go for a Drive
Going for a drive is a simple yet fun activity to do with your young child. Bring your MP3 player and turn on some fun tunes that your child can sing. In the autumn, choose a route to take you through colorful tree-lined streets. In the winter, consider driving through residential areas and admiring the decorations. Just make sure to drive carefully to avoid any possible accidents, especially with your little one in the car. Professionals, like those at Loughlin Fitzgerald PC, know that winter can be a bad time of year for driving. The spring and summer months are ideal for checking out all of the colorful flowers and gardens that are in bloom at that time of year.
4. Have a Treasure Hunt
If you do not feel like going anywhere, set up a treasure hunt. Hide five to ten things around your home and give your child a simple map and clues. This activity will also help your child to learn cardinal directions and to pair pictures with words. The loot at the end of the hunt could be a special treat or small toy for your child to enjoy.
These four activities provide quality time with your child. You could even document your fun by taking snapshots of each other. The supplies cost little and you will be making memories that will last for a lifetime.
