Sunshine, fresh air, little kids. They go together
naturally. But sometimes, it may seem like you have few options for playing
outdoors with a toddler who isn’t steady enough on his feet to run free and
isn’t strong enough to navigate the playground equipment alone. At the same
time, your energetic tot is not likely to be content being strapped in the
stroller for too long. So how do you enjoy a sunny morning with your little
one? Try these simple yet enchanting ideas to turn a park, backyard, pool, or
sidewalk into a magical place for toddler outdoor fun.
Give the Park a Test
Run
I remember the first time I really let go of my toddler’s
hand at the playground. My heart pounded a bit harder as she made her way up
the steps of the jungle gym. She watched the bigger kids race along the
bridges, jump over gaps and zoom down the slides. I trailed her every step the
first few times, but in a few weeks of teaching her playground safety, I was
sitting on the bench watching her make her way all alone. In no time, she too
was running jumping, swinging from the bars and doing belly slides. To get your
toddler acclimated to playground equipment, try to go on off hours – early in
the morning on the weekends or during school hours are best. That will help you
avoid older kids who may be a bit too rough on the equipment.
Have a Picnic
Grab a blanket and some finger foods and you have the
makings for a special meal in the sunshine. The change in setting is a great
way to get a young child to experiment with new foods in new ways. spread some
peanut butter on a cracker or introduce veggies with a dipping sauce. The sheer
pleasure of eating in a yard or the park may persuade even the fussiest eater
to try something new.
Enjoy a Splash
From pools to sprinklers to water tables, there are many ways
to keep toddlers cool and entertained with water. Water play gives your toddler
a chance to experiment with cause and effect, stimulates her senses, and (of
course) cools her off on a steamy day. It's also sure to provide endless
giggles and fun.
Take a Walk
Sometimes it's the simplest thing that makes a day extra
special. A walk around the block for instance, lets you and your toddler enjoy
fresh air and many opportunities for exciting adventures and learning. From
introducing new words to letting your child touch, see, smell, and hear new
things, a short stroll is like a mini vacation to young kids. It's the perfect
activity whether your toddler is still mastering walking independently or is
ready to balance on the sidewalk bricks.
Blow Some Bubbles
In the spirit of "keep it simple," might I suggest
you just step outside with some bubble solution and a blowing wand? Proof that
you don't need a big backyard or fancy swing sets to entertain and delight a
toddler: blowing bubbles will make them happy.
Do a Little Gardening
Digging in the dirt is about the penultimate in fun for
toddlers, so planting, weeding, and making mud for plants to grow is one of the
greatest activities you can invite a young child to do. Beyond planting basic
plants, there are numerous gardening activities that you can enjoy with
toddlers.