Toddler play

Play is children’s work. Toddlers are developing many skills at this stage and play is essential to furthering this rapid growth.

Toddlers have short attention spans and busy bodies. With this in mind it is often best to keep play sessions simple and short. Remember play is meant to be fun – not a totally structured experience. Use every day events as fun learning experiences. Talk lots about what you are doing, turn off the television so there are no distractions.

This age group love imitating those around them. This is the beginning of their learning about what is socially acceptable behaviour.
By about 21 months of age, toddlers will start to play with others as they are starting to learn independent behaviours. This will allow you to take a more passive role in their play. However this doesn’t mean they have learnt how to play nicely together so be on the ready to intervene when arguments break out.
Play develops language. Simple words and facial expressions help your child learn the basis of communication. This can also be a great opportunity to start putting names to feelings. Try showing your toddler different facial expressions and then describe the feeling .. “all gone”, "sad face" “back again”, "surprise face".

Toys for this age group:
When purchasing toys for your child ask yourself:
- Will this toy help my child to explore and be creative?
 - Is the toy able to be used in a variety of ways?
- Will this toy encourage my child’s imagination and creativity?
 - Will the toy engage my child as an active participant rather than just entertain?

The following PDF’s are all play ideas pamphlets produced by the Play and Learning Program (PAL) at the State Child Development Centre. We have selected the ones that we feel are most relevant to this age group.


Link: Play to encourage concentration
Link: Home made toys 18 mths – 3 years
Link: Music songs and movement
Link: Water play
Link: Reading fun with toddlers
Link: Play and toys for toddlers
Link: Find a playgroup in the Great Southern - search by suburb
Link: Find a toy library in the Great Southern

Albany Public Library has story time Tuesday and Thursday 10:30am.


Link: Story Time and Rhyme Time

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified practitioner therefore if you have any concerns see your GP, Practice Nurse or Child Health Nurse.