Bonding over Creative Play

I was petrified of the term 'Toddler', because my little one entered this stage. Now I laugh at myself. My daughter like any Toddler her age knocks things down, goes in the most unexpected places, loves to laugh hysterically and throw tantrums. These things are annoying, but we should try and understand that their world changes every hour. They come across something or another. We as parents should channelize their energies in the right direction. You should understand that they aren't  doing this to annoy/irritate  you, s/he is exploring the world around them.

Creative Play can come to your rescue (I'm a huge fan, and can vouch for it). It will not only engage your tot, in the process you'll also realize what your tot enjoys/is good at. Its extremely easy to involve your toddler in Creative Play.

a) I've always maintained, if you look around in your house you'll find so many toys for your toddler... You do not need to buy new one every time. Use household stuff which is clean, child friendly and unbreakable. Like Tupperware/plastic containers, kitchen towels, plastic cookie cutters. You wouldn't even realize and your child will spend a long time with these things. Warning: this might be noisy.

b) The next activity needs your supervision. In a plastic tub keep pulses, small blocks, sheet of paper, balls etc. Make sure to keep an eye on your toddler as tots might stuff these things in their mouths, noses and ears.

c) Legos are my daughter's all time favorite (besides books). Blocks come in different sizes, so choose them based on your tot's age.

d) Finger Painting, my daughter loves to get messy with paints. Google for some home made paint recipe or purchase child friendly paints... And you're good to go. Try ELC Sponge Paint kit. Kids learn colors, textures and love the activity.

e) Play Dough, it comes in so many colors with different molds. You can make play dough cupcakes, ice creams etc. There are so many blogs and sites which will tell you about simple and kid-friendly play dough recipes... Else pick em up from any stationary/toy store. Play Dough not only help your child express... but also develop their fine motor skills.

f) Playing in Sand... Check out for a sandbox or go to a beach (if you have one near by), toddlers love playing with Sand in sand. Sand Play is encouraged as it promotes creativity and physical development.

g) Role Play: Be it being a doctor/patient, teacher/student, mom/dad anything and any situation. No toddler is unaware about Role Play. They love doing it and role play enhances their creativity and imagination.


Creative play doesn't end here... The list of activities is endless playing with water, cooking, singing, playing dress up, dancing, crafts and art, coloring & drawing, playing with cars and dolls, exploring nature... The most important thing is spending some quality time with your kid. You'll realize in creative play your involvement will be higher and your toddlers will do most of the learning. Remember these activities are more about having fun while you learn and bond.