Parents and educators can provide 2-year-olds with fun activities that help them reach cognitive milestones. These activities are fantastic for 1-year-olds, 2-year-olds, and even 3-year-olds. I’m sharing fifteen favorite brain development activities you can do with your toddler at home or in the classroom. A 2-year-old is developing the following cognitive skills, according to the HSELOF:…
Updated: October 21, 2023 As an infant/toddler developmental therapist, I understand the crucial role adults play in shaping toddlers’ language development. Early on, we have the power to influence their communication skills in meaningful ways. I’m excited to share my favorite play-based, nurturing language activities that will not only enrich your toddler’s language journey but…
Updated January 27, 2024 Tearing paper may seem destructive, but intentional tearing paper activities are great for young children. Tearing paper has many benefits, which is why I use these activities in my developmental therapy sessions. Let’s explore 25+ learning activities focused on tearing paper! Getting Started Paper is both a loose parts material and…
Updated December 23, 2023 Water activities are a wonderful way for babies and toddlers to explore and learn about their world. These sensory-rich experiences support development while fostering creativity and cognitive skills in the early years. Below are some of my favorite tested activities from my time as a toddler teacher. Water Activities #1 Sponge…
I’m sharing 12 fun play dough activity ideas that your toddler will adore. These activities are open-ended, so toddlers can play and explore as long as they want. Do you have a toddler who seeks out creative and sensory play? Play dough is the perfect way for them to explore their creativity. It helps with…
Updated April 5, 2025 Some parents and teachers love messy play—others prefer low-mess, easy-to-prep activities for two-year-olds. As a developmental therapist, I’ve learned how to strike a balance. In this post, I’m sharing my favorite toddler activities that are low-mess and quick-prep. You’ll also find simple ways to extend or adapt each activity to add…
Outdoor cognitive activities for toddlers are engaging, sensory-stimulating ways to build essential thinking skills. Here are dozens of outdoor cognitive activities based on the cognitive skills: Types of Outdoor Cognitive Activities: Outdoor play has a significant impact on cognitive development for early learners. Toddlers begin learning about the relationship between themselves and the natural world….
Updated December 14, 2024 Spending time outside during the toddler years has a lasting impact on children’s development. These easy outdoor learning activities connect toddlers with nature while developing skills across all learning domains— from motor and cognitive skills to creativity and literacy. As a developmental therapist working in homes and classrooms, I’m happy to…
Toddlers learn best by exploring and experimenting. Sensory activities stimulate the senses and help toddlers learn about the world. Look for ideas to capture your 18-month-old’s interest and spark curiosity. These sensory learning ideas are great for at home or in a toddler classroom! Indoor Sensory Learning Activities Felt Boards Create a felt board by…
As a developmental therapist working in early intervention, I’m excited to share my favorite cognitive activities for toddlers aged 1 to 3. These fun and developmentally appropriate activities can be enjoyed at home or in the classroom. Support toddlers’ cognitive development with interactive activities that enhance executive function and problem-solving. Cognitive Development Cognitive development is…