AboutEvelyn Petersen Expertise I give parents advice that is candid, positive and practical. I give them ideas that work and that they can use immediately, not study. My advice is based on expertise and experience in the area of early childhood education that spans 40 years of work as a professional and as a parent and grandparent. See askevelyn.com
Experience
Past/Present clients Hundreds of parents and teachers in the US and other countries
Question Hi Evelyn, Could you offer suggestions as to activities for 14 month old toddler that help their development?
Thank you so much.
Answer Dear Helen,
You need to remember that the child is growing in many developmental areas and you need to nurture all of them. Like all children your toddler needs praise for all behaviors that you want to promote, and hugs and smiles just because he/she exists. A child needs to feel both loveable (just for "being" himself/herself,) and capable or worthwhile. Praise for cooperation in dressing or undressing, and for eating, and helping out in small ways makes the child feel capable. These are basics of development in the areas of social and emotional growth.
In the physical and intellectual development areas, remember that this age group needs to use their bodies, develop beginning muscle skills and develop communication with the body, sounds and words. Say words back to the child and give the child words that tell what he/she is doing. Say the names of body parts and things in the home. Respond to the child with praise and smiles.
Children this age need and love sensory stimulation. Use water for play as well as bathing; go outdoors to feel the breeze, sun and grass and sand. Listen and enjoy nature's noises. Play games with sounds and identify sounds. Make a "feely box" with textures inside of it to feel.
Make a CD of common sounds in the home to listen to or identify. Make sensory lotto cards on strong cardboard with glue and things like sandpaper, rice, scrap fabric to play with. Use art media like safe markers, caryons and paint as well as blocks and playdough (See Creative pages in www.askevelyn.com for playdough recipe)
Other matierials and toys that will nurture physical and intellectual development are simple puzzles, a variety of blocks, nesting toys, simple musical toys, shape sorters, pull toys, simple climbing equipment, large soft balls (or use a pillowcase stuffed with crumpled newspaper), simple sock puppets, touch and smell books and picture books. Most important, enjoy these activities with your child. Evelyn www.askevelyn.com
