G is 12 months old and we’ve just started doing some learning activities together.
Here are two of our favorite one year old learning activities.
Jar and Buttons
I picked up some giant buttons at our local teacher supply store (here are some) and gave G a handful of buttons and a wide-mouthed jar.
I let him explore the buttons (and yes, he put one straight in his mouth but I’m always supervising these types of things and they are way too big to go in his mouth completely).
On his own, he started dropping them in, getting excited with each satisfying clink the buttons made on the glass.
As he played, I narrated by naming the colors or shapes. I know he wasn’t totally paying attention to me, but I try and always provide a language-rich environment.
He would hand me buttons, which provided a great opportunity for practicing our signs for “thank you!” and “more,” as well!
Pompoms and Muffin Tray
For this one, I gave him a small bowl of sparkly pompoms and a silicone muffin tray.
For quite a while, he just enjoyed touching the pompoms, turning them over in his hands, and shouting, “Ball!”
And since little ones this age are still learning through taste, he did pop a couple in his mouth. But, the sparkly poms did not appeal to him and he’d immediately spit them out. Again, just supervise!
He had fun tossing them, as well as handing them to me.
And then, I showed him how to put them in the tray.
He put a few in the tray until he decided that it was more fun to chew on the tray.
Which is, of course, just fine, too. 🙂
If your one year old seems ready for some learning fun, then go for it!
Written by Jill
An Easy to Read Reference of Monthly Toddler Activities
Anonymous
Friday 13th of July 2012
I've been fresh out of fun activities to engage in with my 16mo. old for some time now - thank you so much for all the clever ideas! Summer is here and he loves being outside...this poses as a challenge for me, as we live near a busy street, in the middle of town. I struggle to keep him in the yard and away from the road. I think a big blanket and some of the utensils you've mentioned would capture his attention and keep him interested long enough to allow us to enjoy some sunshine and a breath of fresh air! You're a lifesaver, I will definately be trying a few of these tomorrow! He's going to love them, and a happy babe = a happy Mommy! Thanks again! :)
Shonda
Sunday 27th of May 2012
I totally need to get those buttons. My one year old would love them and so would my 3 year old!
The Monko
Sunday 27th of May 2012
this is a lovely post. I'm sending this to my friend who is looking for ideas for her one year old.
Kimberly Evermore
Friday 25th of May 2012
I just found your blog through Pinterest. This is the first post of yours that I am reading and am looking forward to checking out the others! Good ideas!
- Kim
PenguinsandPopsicleSticks.net
Mary Beth
Friday 25th of May 2012
Thanks! I've been eager to start some activities with my 15 month old but am clueless as to where to start!
Mary BethNewlifesteward.com