Children Exercise Dvd
Summertime Activities for Toddlers by Kim Smith
Summer is almost upon us. It’s time to start thinking about how to spend those hot, summer days. When you have a toddler, pre-planning is a good way to make the most out of your time. Here are some fun, summertime activities for toddlers. Group a couple together or break them down into days; a different day, a different idea. Use some as a backup in case rain decides to delay your outdoor activity plans.
Let’s go swimming
Your swimming activity does not only have to only include actual swimming. Take your toddler to the local YMCA or any local recreational center and let him or her learn about pool safety. While you’re there, take the time to learn of some safety tips for parents as well. Then swim, have a good lunch, and relax.
A day at the amusement park
If you’re fortunate enough to have an amusement park in your area, set aside a day to take your toddler. Pack a picnic lunch, if the park allows it, and enjoy the rides, sights, and sounds of the park. Check beforehand to see what type of shows they are holding that would be appropriate for your toddler and include the show as part of your activities.
No amusement park? How about the zoo?
If you’re lucky enough to have both, then there are two good toddler activity days right there. A day at the zoo is fun for any toddler. It’s also a good way to sneak in some learning. Lions roar, bears growl, and snakes slither. Pack a lunch and you have a great day planned.
Want to stay in? Try reading.
If it’s raining outside, too hot, or you just want to stay indoors, reading is a great activity. Not only does it help with bonding, it’s a great teaching activity. Grab a book that is good for your child’s age group and let him or her point out the things they see in the pictures. Ask if they see those things around the house or in the neighborhood.
Blowing bubbles
My daughter loves this. We sit on the porch and take turns. She loves to blow and I have to pop them, then I blow and she tries to catch them. Grab a big bottle, set up a little table outside, and have fun.
It’s music time!
My daughter loves to dance. A lot of children’s DVDs are including the CDs with the accompanying music so the fun can continue. Make some space in the room and get moving. It’s a great way to get in some exercise and toddlers just love it!
Drawing
A good indoor and outdoor activity. When indoors, get some washable crayons or markers and pull out the activity books or blank sheets of paper. If you’re outdoors, try using chalk for the sidewalk. Ask your child if he or she can draw the things they see around them.
Picnic days
Fix up a basket, grab a blanket, and head outdoors. Picnics are fun and you can get your toddler involved by having him or her help pack the basket. Name the foods as they are going in. Head out to the backyard or a park and enjoy the sunshine.
Live near the beach?
Plan a day at the beach. You don’t have to swim; your toddler will enjoy watching the waves come in. This is also another way to include a picnic and enjoy the sunshine. Bring along some of your other toddler activities such as items for drawing or books. Describe the things you see on the beach.
Last but not least, get out and walk.
If it’s a short walk, hold your toddler’s hand. If you want to get in some good exercise, place your toddler in the stroller and take the scenic route. My daughter loves to point out the birds, motorcycles, and trucks. Add color descriptions and numbers to the things you see. If your toddler sees a car and points it out, say, “Yes, that is a red car”. See birds? “I see two birds”. You get the picture.
There are many great activities for toddlers. This article just includes a small sample. Become creative and try to do something different. Set up a schedule to help. If you would like more ideas on activities for toddlers, please visit http://www.ourtoddlers.com/101-tips.html
About the Author
Kim Smith
Visit to find great tips for raising your toddler
Kung Fu for Kids – instructional workout DVD ages 7 – 12 (YMAA) exercise 210025
