When we think of toddlers, we have several thoughts. Runny noses, unkempt hair, and fussy eating are just a few of the characteristics we associate with this perplexing age group.

There’s more to it than meets the eye when it comes to cognition. Fine and gross motor abilities are being developed, as is an overall understanding of the environment and its relationships. So, how do we support the toddler’s incredible development?

Here are seven excellent activities for your toddler to enjoy:

Sand table play- Sand table play promotes sensory development as well as basic scientific and arithmetic skills through scooping, pouring, and early forms of measurement.

Allowing time for your child to look at books on their own builds an appreciation for books and literacy while also providing practice turning pages.

Making play dough- A homemade recipe of flour, water, salt, and food coloring is a great method to practice following directions and understanding sequencing. A youngster is introduced to mixing, measuring, and pouring in a specified order to make a finished moldable product when making play dough.

Hoop jumping- Toddlers can gain gross motor practice by jumping from one hoop to the next with a few hula hoops lined up along the ground. This activity helps to strengthen muscles and coordination as they land their feet simultaneously from one hoop hop to the next. Spread the hoops further apart for a greater distance for a greater challenge.

Painting with primary colors- Using the primary colors of red, blue, and yellow is not only a fun painting activity, but it is also a great way to observe color changes and verbally identify each color that it produces.

Cardstock paper constructions– Toddlers may fold this thick paper to create art structures for fine motor work. Using scissors or a tearing method to cut the paper into smaller pieces and tape to hold them together by constructing “up” a structure is a fun way to start learning about age-appropriate engineering.

Salad spinner painting– Toddlers are invited to paint a salad spinner with drops of paint on a coffee filter. Start spinning the salad spinner with the coffee filter inside. This exercise creates open-ended art and allows infants to practice fine motor skills by turning the salad spinner with their hands.

Can you think of any other activities?