Here are different activities to help toddlers reach the milestones according to their age, as recommended by CDC, WHO, IAP, and AAP. You can as a parent support the adequate and timely development of your child while engaging them in fun and games such as the following:
5 Activities for 4-6 Months
At 4-6 months, toddlers develop essential skills like reaching and rolling. Try these activities to help them achieve these milestones:
1. Toy Placement: Place toys within reach to encourage grasping.
2. Tummy Time: Strengthen neck and back muscles.
3. Side-Lying Position: Enhance rolling and balance.
4. Music and Movement: Stimulate auditory development.
5. Mirror Play: Foster self-discovery.
5 Activities for 7-9 Months
Between 7-9 months, toddlers master sitting and crawling. Engage in:
1. Sitting Support: Provide pillows or cushions.
2. Crawling Tunnels: Encourage exploration.
3. Toy Movement: Develop problem-solving skills.
4. Clap and Play: Enhance auditory development.
5. Story Time: Foster language skills.
5 Activities for 10-12 Months
At 10-12 months, toddlers achieve standing and walking milestones. You can try the following activities:
1. Hold and Walk: Provide balance support.
2. Walking Behind Toys: Encourage independent walking.
3. Balance Beams: Develop balance and coordination.
4. Music and Movement: Promote gross motor skills.
5. Stair Climbing: Supervise and support.
5 Activities for 13-15 Months
Between 13-15 months, toddlers develop pointing and imitation skills. Engage in:
1. Pointing Games: Encourage communication.
2. Imitation Play: Foster social skills.
3. Sensory Play: Explore textures and objects.
4. Story Time: Develop language skills.
5. Role-Playing: Encourage imagination.
5 Activities for 16-18 Months
At 16-18 months, toddlers refine running and kicking skills. These are some activities you might try:
1. Obstacle Courses: Develop agility.
2. Ball Play: Enhance kicking and throwing.
3. Dance and Movement: Promote gross motor skills.
4. Stair Climbing: Supervise and support.
5. Trampoline Play: Foster balance and coordination.
5 Activities for 19-24 Months
Between 19-24 months, toddlers enhance language and problem-solving skills. Engage in the following activities:
1. Story Time: Develop language skills.
2. Puzzles and Play: Foster problem-solving.
3. Sensory Play: Explore textures and objects.
4. Imitation Play: Encourage social skills.
5. Role-Playing: Promote imagination.
These are a few simple yet effective activities for all age groups. If you encounter a problem or suspect delayed growth in your child, you should always remember to consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance.