1. Make playdough bugs toddler craft
Instead of using the usual shape cutters, we decided to switch things up and create some adorable bugs. My son had a blast molding play dough into bugs of all shapes and sizes, using items like straw pieces, wooden hearts, large googly eyes, and pipe cleaners to add unique details. I was asked to bring a toddler craft to my son’s daycare, so I immediately thought of this craft since it’s not messy and easy to make. It’s great for toddler birthday parties too.
2. Make playdough letters and decorate them
Another fun way to play with play dough is to shape large letters and decorate them. We started with the letter S for my son’s name, and we decorated it with large buttons, large googly eyes, and little toys. It’s a fun sensory and educational activity.
3. Jumping through the hula hoop
This is a classic favorite. It’s a simple yet entertaining activity that keeps parents in the comfort of their seats while their little ones have a blast. Just hold the hula hoop at the height for your child to walk through, and if you’re feeling adventurous, give it a wiggle to up the challenge and excitement. Singing a catchy circus tune adds an extra touch of fun!
4. Cutting food with children’s knives
I’ve stumbled upon children’s knives, and it’s been a game-changer in the kitchen. Now, I can involve my toddler in cooking activities by giving him small cutting tasks. He’s particularly fond of strawberries, and at just 3 years old, he’s already a pro at cutting off the strawberry bottoms all by himself! It’s best to start with soft food like bananas and move to other foods slowly. We love Montessori education because it builds up practical skills, and this is one of the skills that kids will definitely use.
5. Looking for pairs
Gather some items from around the house in pairs and challenge your child to find a matching one for each. I usually prompt with questions like “Is this the same? No. Is this the same? Yes.” You can use a variety of items like food, balls, toys, or drinks for this activity. Another option is to turn it into a scavenger hunt and search for matching items throughout the house. It’s a great way to engage your child’s observation skills and have some fun together!
6. Montessori busy board
We discovered this fantastic busy board by Milleli, crafted from felt and packed with engaging activities for toddlers. From matching shapes, letters, numbers, and colors to practicing fine motor skills with snaps, laces, zippers, and buttons, it offers a diverse range of developmental opportunities. This hands-on experience not only develops hand-eye coordination but also helps the development of vital self-care skills, in line with Montessori education principles. It’s a wonderful way for little ones to learn and grow while having fun!
7. DIY Puppet Theater
Introducing our homemade Puppet Theater, crafted from a recycled box! Originally, I planned for the kids to paint and decorate the box, but our impromptu project kicked off in the carpeted basement so we opted for no mess colorful wrapping paper instead, adding curtains that the kids adore opening and closing. It’s been a joy to watch their excitement as they settle in to watch a show or take the stage themselves. There’s something truly magical about bringing fairy tales, nursery rhymes, or beloved books to life through that little window. You can use toys you have at home to do a puppet show, or get some puppets for the show. We like to use animal puppet sets to sing nursery rhymes, like Old McDonald had a farm, Wheels on the bus, and others.
8. Outdoor chalk pirate-themed challenge course
We had a blast creating an outdoor pirate-themed chalk obstacle course! The kids walked the beam, battled a sea monster, twirled through a storm, rowed a boat, leaped from lily pad to lily pad, walked backward, navigated a rope, collected diamonds, caught a fish, and made their way to the treasure chest. To add to the fun, my older daughter even dressed up as a pirate! You can watch a full walk-through video on my instagram page: Pirate-themed Chalk Challenge course.
9. Sorting cereal
Here’s an easy sorting activity perfect for toddlers! Grab various types of cereal and mix them up. Then, show your toddler how to sort them either by color or by type. It’s a simple yet engaging way to introduce basic sorting skills and practice fine motor skills.
10. Walking on Duplo blocks
While stepping on individual LEGO bricks isn’t exactly pleasant, walking on a Lego Duplo tray can actually feel quite nice. It’s a fantastic way for little feet to experience different textures. You can also use a variety of other materials for walking on such as soft blankets, a ziplock bag filled with beans or rice, aluminum foil, bubble wrap, and even books with sensory elements. It’s a fun and tactile experience that engages the senses and promotes sensory exploration.