|
Dear Friends,
A time for the Toddlers!
Bruce is off on some much needed
rest and relaxation with his family this week, so I offered to share some
thoughts with you. It's exciting for me to come out from beyond the
"editing" mode and into the creative side.
|
Well, it's
summer time again, and the kids are in the house looking for something
to do! At the Toddler stage, this can be particularly exciting!
Toddlers are learning new things, they are talking, and counting, and
interacting with others - all by imitating the adults around them.
Often the simplest and sometimes the
most enjoyable summer activity for toddlers are those that don't take
much time, effort, or experience to pull off. Below are some
suggestions to take the "wiggles" out of the toddlers this
summer, and make it enjoyable as well!
|
|
|
1.
|
|
Take a walk. Most toddlers don't enjoy spending much
time in a car, so sometimes getting out for a wal
may be just what the doctor ordered. Toddlers love to go for walks.
However, you may need to bring a stroller along - just in case. Make
sure there is plenty of sunscreen as well.
|
|
2.
|
|
Visit the
Local Parks. I remember
when my son was younger how much he enjoyed climbing around the park
equipment, and testing his new "coordination" skills.
Swinging and going down the slide are popular
with children at this age (feel free to swing and go down the slide
yourself...!)
|
|
3.
|
|
Visit the
Local Library. Research
has shown that the brain is developing fastest at this stage in their
life. over 90% of their vocabulary that they
will use later on in life is being formed before they turn 5. Use this
opportunity to read to them, and let them sound out new words and
sounds. Most public libraries have a list of books appropriate for this
age.
|
|
4.
|
|
Arts and
Crafts. Toddlers love
to paint, color, and work with clay. (as if
this is a newsflash!) Grab some drawing paper, and let their
imaginations soar. Be sure to affirm their use of colors, creative
shapes, neatness, etc... to encourage them.
Stock up on some arts and craft supplies from your local supply store
to have on hand - just in case!
|
|
5.
|
|
Visit Fun
and Entertaining Places.
Visit a museum. They are a wonderful place for toddlers to learn and
explore. Visit a local farm or zoo. Allow the children to view first
hand how animals and humans work together. Many of the local zoos have
special events for families and are worth taking advantage of. Another
great place is the miniture golf course. This
can be a great place for toddlers to test their mobility and motor
skills. Not to mention - it's a lot of fun too!
|
Hopefully, we have given you a couple of ideas to help your toddler in
their development, but also provide you some wonderful family time as
well. Well, Bruce will be back next time, so thanks for letting me share
some thoughts.
Celebrating Families,
Michael "Kapp" Brown
Executive
Director
House on the Rock Family Ministries
____________________________________________________________________
If you found this information
helpful you will want to visit our website for more! Each month we
feature articles on the topics of: men's issues, marriage, blended
families, parenting, and church ministry to families. You will also
find a great deal more information about House on the Rock Family
Ministries! Thanks for visiting.
Please
feel free to forward this to friends and family … we just ask that you
keep it intact … thanks
|
