Key Points As a developmental therapist and former toddler teacher, I’ll admit that the term “communication play” is not often used in our field. But, it’s important to consider how this type of play can be used at home and in childcare to support children’s learning. What is Communication Play? Communication play is a type…
Key Points Babies are born ready to connect with the people in their world. Parents and teachers can use social games to instill skills like communication and empathy through play. As a developmental therapist, I know that infants first need a social connection with caregivers before building other developmental skills. Social Games for Babies What…
Key Points Manipulative play is a type of play where children use their hands, fingers, and wrists to move and place small objects or toys. Children problem-solve through actions such as grasping, pushing, and pulling to meet specific goals or outcomes, such as solving a puzzle, completing a shape sorter, stacking a block tower, or…
Key Points From my start in childcare to my work as a developmental therapist, I have loved incorporating heavy work play with kids. Introducing heavy work play can transform your classroom or home into a happier, calmer space for children. Heavy Work Basics Heavy work is a type of activity that engages muscles and joints…
As a developmental therapist, I regularly recommend container play to parents and infant/toddler teachers. This simple, open-ended activity has powerful learning benefits, and the best part—children love it! Key Points Definition: What is Container Play? Container play is a type of play where babies and toddlers explore putting objects into containers and dumping them out….
It’s never too early to foster a love for reading and writing. As an infant/toddler developmental therapist, I understand how caregivers can use activities to support emergent literacy skills, like handling books, enjoying songs, and building language. These literacy activities for babies are the same ones I’ve used in homes and infant classrooms. They are…
Explore our favorite block play activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Block activities support children’s creativity, learning, and physical development. I’ll share block activities and games you can introduce at home or in the classroom, along with tips to promote a block play environment. What is a Block Play Activity? Block play is an imaginative,…
Updated: December 28, 2023 Key Points As an early childhood professional, I am excited to share about nature-based early childhood education. Let’s define this type of program and its benefits; the classroom environment and nature-based activities foster a lifelong connection with nature. What is Nature-based Early Childhood Education? Nature-based early childhood education incorporates the natural…
Key Points Whether it’s climbing trees, splashing in puddles, or observing tiny creatures, nature play offers endless play and learning opportunities. Let’s learn how nature play supports children’s growth, creativity, and connection with the natural world. What is Nature Play? Nature play is engaging in play and exploration in natural outdoor environments such as a…
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:…