Outdoor Fun

• Babies and toddlers both benefit from spending as much time outdoors as possible. You can lay very small babies on a blanket and younger babies on the grass. When children are very young, try to get your outdoor time in the morning or later afternoon and keep your babies in the shade when you can. Toddlers can climb stairs, go down slides and play on swings. Children of all ages love to blow and pop bubbles. Older toddlers can draw with chalk or "paint" on concrete with a paintbrush dipped in water.
  
  

Social Games

• Both babies and older toddlers love social games. You can play games like peek-a-boo, patty cake and so-big with babies even before they can sit up independently. Older toddlers can play simple games of hide and seek or I spy. These reciprocal games help children learn to play with others and take turns. You can even initiate social play by inviting children to join what you are doing. Build a block tower and let your child knock it down then encourage him to build a tower for both of you to knock down.
  
  

Language Development

• When it comes to language development, the best thing that you can do is talk to your baby and toddler. You may feel silly but tell your child what you are doing during the day. Talk about what you see, what you are cooking and how you are feeling. Talking to your baby gets her used to listening to language and helps her feel involved in what you are doing. And don't forget to sing. Sing simple songs with your baby or toddler and encourage her to do any hand motions with you. If you don't know any songs, try making up your own.
  
  

Quiet Time

• When you want it to be quiet time, there are still plenty of things that you can do with your baby or toddler. Even the youngest babies love books with textures to touch and bright colors to see. Toddlers can help you turn the pages and point out pictures of familiar objects. Older toddlers can look at books independently and "read" them aloud. Some children enjoy working on simple puzzles, and you should never underestimate the entertainment value of homemade toys. Have children practice putting Popsicle sticks, clothespins or blocks into a container and taking them out again.