Games for toddlers

If your toddler is pulling himself up and trying to walk, help him practice with a pushing and pulling game. Use a moveable object such as a child-size chair or plastic stacking box filled with soft toys. While he holds the edges for support, you can hold the other side and keep it steady. Then slowly pull the box toward you to encourage him to step forward. Soon he'll start to push while you gently pull. This will build his confidence for the day he finally walks on his own.

Just as he loved peekaboo as a baby, your toddler will love to play simple games of hide-and-seek. First thing in the morning, take turns hiding under the bedsheets. At bath time, use a big towel. For extra fun and giggles, you can gently prod him when he's hiding. Say something like, "Hmm, is this a leg? Or is it an arm?"

Games like this show your toddler that just because he can't see something, that doesn't mean it isn't there. For a change, carry him into another room while he's wrapped up in the towel. He'll be delighted when he pops his head out to discover he's in a new spot.

By now your toddler can hold his hands open, but it may be a while before he claps independently. For now, clap them together for him, or let him hold your hands while you pat them together. Sit him facing you on the floor or on your lap and sing clapping songs like patty-cake. These will boost his language skills as well as his hand-eye coordination.

Toddlers love to be chased. The object of this game is for your child to be caught, especially if she knows she gets a big bear hug and tickles every time you manage to catch her. For variety, pretend to be different types of animals, like a roaring lion or a scuttling mouse. A great game for building up your toddler's stamina – and yours!