Screen-time for toddlers is becoming increasingly common, with many parents using tablets and phones to aid in their children’s learning and keep them entertained. However, screen-time can be detrimental on toddlers’ development, reduce their attention span and delay their language skills. This is where the importance of screen-free activities come in.
While technology can be an excellent tool for education, there are plenty of other screen-free activities that can help support your toddler’s learning. Check out the list below for some screen-free activities you can do with your toddler to help them learn and grow.
Reading together
Reading is an excellent way to bond with your child while helping them learn new words and improve their language skills. It can also help build the important building blocks for literacy and academic success.
Make it a habit to set aside some time each day to read together. Find the most convenient schedule that will work for both you and your child. If it’s best to do it before bedtime, then make it a consistent routine to carve out time for some bedtime stories. Additionally, it is also best if you allow your little one to choose their own books to read as it will help make the activity more enjoyable for them.
playdates
Drawing and coloring
Allowing your child to express their creativity through art can help with their intellectual development, problem-solving skills, and fine motor skills. It is also a great way for them to practice following instructions and develop their own ideas.
There are plenty of ways you can encourage your toddler to draw and color. You can start by providing them with some simple coloring books and crayons. As they get older, you can introduce them to other materials such as markers, paints, and clay. You can also create opportunities for them to draw by setting up an easel or chalkboard in your home. If you want to take it a step further, you can enroll them in art classes or sign them up for local museum memberships.
Building block games
Building block games are great for developing your child’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. They are also a fun way for your little one to use their imagination and be creative.
There are many different types of building block games available on the market. You can find ones that are specifically designed for toddlers or opt for the classic wooden blocks. There are also many online resources that offer free printables and templates that you can use to create your own custom game.
Music and movement
Listening to music and moving to the beat is a great way for your child to develop their gross motor skills and coordination. It is also a fun way to bond with your little one and get them moving.
You can start by playing some of your favorite songs and dancing around the house together. You can also create an obstacle course or set up a simple scavenger hunt that will get your child up and moving. As they get older, you can sign them up for dance classes or introduce them to different types of musical instruments.
Imaginary play
Imaginary play is vital for your child’s social and emotional development. It is also a great way for them to use their imagination and be creative.
There are many ways you can encourage imaginary play. You can start by providing them with simple props such as puppets, dolls, or toy cars. You can also create a simple fort or castle out of blankets and pillows.
Educational toys
Educational toys are a great way to help your child learn while they play. They can help with everything from developing fine motor skills to learning basic concepts such as numbers and colors.
When choosing educational toys for your toddler, it is important to select ones that are appropriate for their age and level of development. There are many different types of educational toys on the market, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase. You can also talk to your child’s pediatrician or a developmental specialist for recommendations.
Sensory play
Sensory play is a great way for your child to explore their senses and learn about the world around them. It is also a fun and creative way for them to play.
There are many different types of sensory activities that you can do with your toddler. You can start by exploring different textures such as sand, foam, or bubbles. You can also introduce them to different smells and tastes. Then, you can add in activities that involve light and sound as you go along.
These are just a few screen-free activities that you can do with your toddler to support their learning. By providing them with opportunities to explore, be creative, and use their imagination, you can help them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
If you are looking for a child care learning center where a variety of creative and fun learning happens, you have definitely found the right place with The Apple Tree Learning Centers!
