(1-2 Years) Simple Toddler Activities

By: Naomi Middleton

Like most toddlers, Brayden is extremely active and curious about the world. Of course, I’m very thankful that he is imaginative and full of energy. But someday, he completely wipes me out. Also, some days we are at a complete loss for what to do. I’m sure that many of you can relate if you have little ones. Here is a list of some simple activities to pull out when the days feel long.

Sticky Time

Supplies: Contact Paper, Leaves, & Tape
Skills: Sensory, Fine Motor, & Nature
This activity is not only a fun sensory activity but it is also a good way to teach your toddler about nature and use their fine motor skills. Simply tape some contact paper to a wall or window and let your toddler explore your yard and find leaves, grass, or flowers to stick to the contact paper.

Trucks & Cereal

Supplies: Trucks, Cereal, and Spoons
Skills: Sensory, Fine Motor
This is such a simple sensory activity for toddlers. Simply fill a bin with oats, trucks, and spoons. Let your toddler practice scooping the oats with the trucks and spoons. There are so many ways that you can make this activity different. Some simple variations of this activity could be pasta, water, or oats.

Simon Says

Supplies: None
Skills: Following Directions
This is a great game for toddlers. Not only does it help them learn to follow directions but you can use it to teach them other things as well. For example, you could use it to teach them colors by saying things like, “Simon says touch something blue.” Or teach them counting by saying “Simon says jump up and down three times.”

Scavenger Hunt

Supplies: Toys or other fun items
Skills: Problem Solving
Scavenger hunts are another simple, yet fun activity that can keep your toddler busy. This activity can be as simple as showing your toddler 3 or 4 of their favorite toys and them hiding them in a room. You might have to help them find them the first few times but they will quickly catch on.

Running Rainbows

Supplies: Chalk, Spray Bottle, Water/Vinegar
Skills: Fine Motor
This is a fun summer activity that will definitely engage your toddlers’ interests and imagination. Help them draw fun shapes on the sidewalk. Then let them use the spray bottle to get the chalk wet. Seeing the chalk run will absolutely delight your toddler. If you think your toddler is ready, you can make this activity more interesting by letting them spray the chalk with vinegar and watch their drawings puff up!