As children grow and develop, engaging them in activities that help their brains grow and develop is essential. However, with busy schedules and limited time, it can be difficult for parents to find activities that align with their interests and lifestyle. Today we’re sharing some of our favorite brain-building activities for busy toddlers. Which will help improve their social skills, emotional regulation, and language development without sacrificing your valuable time and energy!
Puzzles
The OG toy: puzzles — an incredibly underrated and overlooked toy! They require problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial awareness skills, all of which are essential for cognitive development. Puzzles can also improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills. As children progress through more complex puzzles, they learn to develop patience, persistence, and the ability to think ahead.
Building or Blocks
One of the oldest and simplest toys, building blocks help develop a child’s creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills. They can learn to think in 3D, visualize structures, and experiment with balance and stability. While manipulating their designs will assist with fine motor skills. It will also help kids learn directional words, like “up,” “down,” “over,” “under,” “in,” and “out.” To keep things challenging, include a mix of blocks with different weights and shapes.
Sensory Kits or Sensory Bins
A curated compilation of materials and tools, sensory kits help engage the use of a child’s senses through open-ended play. They have a strong desire to understand the environment around them. And a kit will assist them with learning through exploration, curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity. Plus, they’re a convenient and effective way to engage your toddler’s brain, without requiring much time or effort.
Music and Movement
Encouraging toddlers to get up and bust a move can help promote brain development and enhance their coordination and motor skills. The best part is, you can do it just about anywhere! Whether you limit this activity to car rides or make space in the living room. Try to incorporate items like maracas, tambourines, or rhythm sticks in your to encourage your toddler to dance and move to the music.
Sorting and Matching
Toys that require sorting and matching can help children develop their problem-solving skills and enhance their visual perception. As well as improve memory skills, as they remember where they have previously sorted or matched certain items. Many of these toys can also be played with others! Helping them to develop social skills, like how to share and collaborate with others.
Scavenger Hunt
This activity can require a lot of planning but is guaranteed to be a hit. Scavenger hunts promote physical activity and can help children develop their gross motor skills as they move around and navigate their environment. They will be required to use problem-solving, critical thinking, and observation skills as they search for hidden objects.
At Meemzy Magic, we offer a variety of sensory kits designed to promote brain development! Our kits include a range of materials that stimulate different senses. While a range of textures and tools make them the perfect brain-building activities for busy toddlers. Visit our shop to check out our line of non-toxic sensory kits, or reach out for guidance on the best bin for your child!