Like many of you, my family is adjusting to a new fall schedule. There’s definitely a transition period that comes with frustrations and tears...sometimes even from me. When life feels a little chaotic, I find it helpful to return to the basics.

The basics look a little different for every family, but they’re the foundation that helps our days run more smoothly. Sometimes it’s something as simple as a good breakfast before heading out the door. Other times, it’s a tool that has proven to work, like the visual checklist we use for our mornings and afternoons.

The basics become an anchor that helps us from drifting into chaos.

As I was creating this month’s Playdate, I thought it would be the perfect time to get back to the basics for our toddlers too.

This month we’ll take a closer look at some of the foundational basic skills that support learning through everyday play:

Week 1: Everyday Helpers– Building confidence and independence through everyday routines

Week 2: Words That Matter– Encouraging the foundational words toddlers use to communicate their wants, needs, and ideas

Week 3: Concepts Through Play – Exploring basic concepts through hands-on play

Week 4: Back to Books – Growing language, imagination, and a love of reading together

As always, each activity includes a developmental focus, simple ways to play, and words to model. I hope you’ll join us this month as we get back to the basics!

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If you ever find yourself searching for a toddler gift and wondering, “Is this a good toy?”

Toy MVP answers that question by highlighting one toy each month that supports language, play, and learning. You’ll see why it stands out and get an easy activity to help you use it during play.

This month’s Toy MVP is Melissa & Doug’s Crawl Through Tunnel. We’ve had this tunnel for about six years now. Both my 7 year old and 3 year old play with it regularly and it’s held up really well.

Movement is one of the best ways toddlers learn. They don't need to sit still to build language or understand new concepts. In fact, they're often more engaged when they're moving! A tunnel gives toddlers the chance to experience spatial concepts with their whole body. When learning is active and playful, those concepts become more meaningful, easier to remember, and easier to use in everyday life.

WHY IT STANDS OUT:

• It can be used for indoor or outdoor play

• Foldable and easy to store, if you’re limited on space

• Versatile for younger and older toddlers

• Encourages development of motor skills

SPATIAL CONCEPTS: (IN/OUT; THROUGH)

• Activity: Grab a few favorite stuffed animals or any item they love. Comment as you go. The frog is going IN the tunnel. Oh, now the frog is OUT. The bunny is going through the tunnel. Uh-oh, she’s stuck! Can you help get her OUT?

• Check in: Does your child follow directions for in/out and through? Encourage your child to comment on what each animal is doing.

Tip: Consider what daily activity or routine you can incorporate the concepts in/out and through to reinforce what they have learned.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr & Eric Carle is a classic you may have grown up reading yourself. I’ve been reading it with my toddler since she was a baby, and the interactive slide-and-find version has been a favorite, especially during those wiggly toddler stages.

For younger toddlers, I like to focus on animal sounds or pause before familiar words to let them fill in the blank: “I see a ___.” It’s a simple way to encourage participation without any pressure.

With older toddlers, you can build vocabulary by talking about each animal. What sound does it make? Where does it live? What does it eat? You can also expand on the colors with little think-alouds: “The bird is red. What else is red? That’s right! Apples and strawberries are red too.”

If this book isn’t already in your storytime rotation, it’s one I’d definitely recommend. There are so many easy ways to extend the learning beyond the pages, and there’s something special about sharing a story that generations of parents and children have enjoyed together.

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Q:My toddler’s daycare teachers told me they’re concerned because he doesn’t talk much at daycare. I’m confused because he talks all the time at home! Why would he talk at home, but not at daycare?

A: Many toddlers communicate differently depending on where they are and who they’re with. Home is a familiar, predictable environment where they feel comfortable. Daycare is a very different setting with new adults, other children, more noise, and lots happening all at once.

If your child is new to daycare, they may spend more time observing than interacting. Watching others, learning the routines, and figuring out what to expect are all important parts of adjusting to a new environment. Observation is a form of learning, and many toddlers become more talkative as they grow more comfortable.

Even if your child enjoys daycare, it can still feel overwhelming at times. Busy classrooms require toddlers to process new sights, sounds, and social interactions all at once. Some children naturally become quieter when they’re taking in a lot of new information.

It’s also important to think about who your child is talking to. At home they have a lot of practice communicating with the people who know them best. At daycare they’re still building relationships with teachers and peers. That level of familiarity and comfort can make a big difference in how much they communicate in the early years.

Discuss with your child’s teachers what they are observing. Is your toddler communicating in other ways, like pointing, gesturing, or following directions? Do they talk during certain activities or with one particular teacher or peer? These details can help paint a more complete picture than simply knowing whether they’re talking.

You can also help bridge home and daycare by sharing favorite songs, books, or topics with the teachers. Familiar routines and interests often encourage communication in a new environment.

If your child is talking well at home and gradually becoming more comfortable at daycare, that’s generally reassuring. However, if they consistently do not communicate in any setting, or if you notice other concerns about their speech, language, or social interactions, it’s worth discussing them with your pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist.

Communication grows best when children feel safe, connected, and regulated.

Disclaimer: The information shared here is general and educational in nature. It is not a substitute for individualized support from a licensed speech therapist or healthcare professional. For concerns specific to your child, consult a professional who knows your family.

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RELATED POSTS YOU’LL ALSO FIND HELPFUL:

Play Notes is a paid subscriber bonus that drops halfway through each month. The Monthly Play Date Calendar gives you the plan. This is where we pause and look at your child. I’ll guide you on how to adjust activities for your child’s age and stage.

Play looks different at every age and stage.

The same activity can support very different skills depending on your child’s developmental level. A younger toddler might be exploring cause and effect, learning new words, or watching you model how to do things. An older toddler might be ready to predict, problem-solve, and take the lead.

But knowing how to adjust an activity can sometimes feel tricky. How do you simplify an idea without taking away the fun? How do you add a challenge without turning play into a lesson?

That’s where Play Notes come in. Each month, I take two activities from the Monthly Playdate and share simple ways to adapt them for different ages and developmental stages, helping you meet your child where they are while still supporting early learning skills through play.

Become a paid subscriber to gain access to Play Notes, along with the Monthly Playdate and subscriber-only resources designed to help you make the most of the play you’re already doing.

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Here’s something that may surprise you: there are no regulations that determine what can be labeled an educational toy. In many cases, it’s just a marketing term.

The toy itself isn’t what makes it educational.

What makes a toy a great learning tool is what your child can do with it and how you support their play.

As a speech-language pathologist, I don’t look at a toy and ask, “Is this educational?” Instead, I ask, "What could a child do with this toy, and how can I create opportunities for learning?"

Once you know what to look for, you’ll start seeing the learning potential in almost every toy your child already owns.

Step 1: Look at What Your Child Can Do With the Toy

Before thinking about what you want your child to learn, start by observing what they are already doing.

Ask yourself:

• What actions does this toy encourage?

• What can my child move, build, create, or pretend?

• Does this toy invite repetition?

• Can my child use this toy in different ways?

The actions your child takes during play are the foundation for learning.

For example, toy animals aren’t just for learning animal names. Your child might make animal sounds, move them around a pretend farm, line them up, sort them by size or type, or pretend to feed them and put them to bed.

Each of these play ideas creates a different learning opportunity. Your child may be practicing language, problem-solving, creativity, early math skills, and/or pretend play, depending on how they choose to interact with the toy.

There’s no one “right” way to play. We’re observing to help us notice the possibilities.

Step 2: Notice What Skill Your Child Is Practicing

Once you understand what your child can do with a toy, take a closer look at the skills they are already practicing during play.

Children naturally use toys to explore and make sense of the world around them. Your role is not to take over the play, but to join your toddler, notice what they are working on, and offer support that helps them grow.

Ask yourself:

• What skills is my child already practicing?

• What seems to interest them about this toy?

• How can I meet my child where they are and build on what they are already doing?

A single toy can support many different areas of development depending on your child’s age, interests, and stage of learning.

For example, blocks might be used to practice early problem solving as your child figures out how to build a tower that stays standing. They might support language when your child says, “big tower” or “more blocks.” They might support early math skills when your child counts pieces, compares sizes, or notices patterns.

The toy stays the same, but the learning opportunities change as your child grows.

When you meet your child where they are and build on what they are already doing, play becomes a natural opportunity for learning.

Step 3: Join the Play and Add One New Idea

When you join in on your toddler’s play, think of yourself as a play partner who adds just enough support to help your child learn and grow.

Start by following your child's lead. Notice what they're interested in and show them you're interested, too. Then add one simple idea that builds on their play.

For example, if your child is building a tower with blocks, you might join by saying:

“You built a tall tower!”

Then, you might extend the play:

“Should we add a bridge?”

If your child is feeding a doll, you might join their idea:

“Baby is hungry.”

Then add a new possibility:

“Should we make some food?”

Language is one of the easiest ways to support learning during play. Rather than asking lots of questions or testing what your child knows, describe what is happening and use words that match the moment.

Over time these repeated interactions help children understand language and use new words themselves. Language is involved in everything we do, from everyday routines to future academic learning, these simple conversations during play have a lasting impact.

It’s not necessary to narrate everything all the time. The goal is to connect with your child and to say what matters.

Step 4: Step Back and Let Learning Continue

Just as important as knowing when to join your child’s play is knowing when to step back.

Independent play gives toddlers opportunities to continue to learn in their own way. It also gives them the time they need to practice new skills through repetition.

After you’ve joined the play, modeled language, or introduced a new idea, step back. Allow yourself to just be present, take a sip of coffee, or complete a chore nearby. Observe what your toddler does. They might build on your idea, change it completely, or ignore it altogether. That’s okay. Those choices are part of learning.

Remember, there’s no right way to play! Some of the greatest learning happens when you let your child take the lead.

Keep Turning Everyday Toys Into Learning Opportunities

The ideas in this post are the foundation behind the Play Guide.

Created by a speech-language pathologist, the Play Guide walks you through 10 classic toddler toys with practical play prompts, early learning concepts to focus on, and words to model to support communication through play. It also includes strategies you can use with almost any toy, helping you see the learning opportunities in the toys you already have.

To celebrate Elevate Toddler Play’s third birthday, enjoy 20% off throughout August with code 3YEARS.

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A quick note: this first edition of Beyond the Toy is available to all subscribers, so you can get a feel for this series.

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Admittedly, I own a lot of toys…many of them I collected even before I had kids. I’ve always been the person who notices what can be done with a toy, not just what it was designed for. I love finding the unexpected ways play can support early learning, especially communication.

If you’ve used the Play by Play Guide, then you already know it focuses on 10 core toys most families already own and shows how to build language through them. Of course, there are many other toys I’ve used with my children or speech therapy clients that didn’t make it into the guide. This series is where I’ll share those.

These posts aren’t meant to point you toward specific toys to buy. Instead, they’re meant to offer a window into how I think about play as a speech therapist and how I turn everyday toys into opportunities for language and connection. This is meant to give you a starting point, so you can start seeing those same possibilities in whatever your toddler is already playing with.

Okay, let’s get to it!

Potato Head

Potato Head is a classic toy that’s been around since the 1950s! This toy can be used for building fine motor skills, visual scanning, language, and body part awareness, and more. It looks simple, but a lot is happening every time your toddler picks up a piece.

In the toy guide PDF below, you’ll find play prompts, words to model, and a list of early concepts this toy supports.

DOWNLOAD YOUR POTATO HEAD TOY GUIDE HERE:

Potato Head Toy Guide

1.39MB ∙ PDF file

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One of my favorite parts of this community is hearing how these ideas come to life in your home. Share in the comments which play prompt your toddler enjoyed the most or any new words, skills, or moments of connection you noticed.

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Have a toy sitting on your shelf that you’re not quite sure how to use? Let me know in the comments or send me a message. It may become a future toy guide!

It's made me reflect on how much happens behind the scenes before we ever see the results, whether we're raising a toddler or growing an idea.

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Looking Back

The idea for Elevate Toddler Play had been sitting in the back of my mind since 2020.

During speech therapy sessions, parents would often ask if they should buy the toys we had been using. They assumed there was something special about the toy.

But what I wanted them to see was that it wasn’t about having the “right” toy. The real value came from how we played with it together. A toy became an opportunity for learning because of a child’s interest in it and the interactions around it, not because of the toy itself.

I kept thinking, Wouldn’t it be nice if every toy came with a guide explaining how to use it to support learning? I knew I couldn’t exactly break into the toy industry, but I could create a space where families could find free and affordable resources. Resources that helped them make the most of the toys they already had and feel confident supporting their toddler’s learning through play and routines.

For a few years, the idea stayed just that...an idea.

Then life looked very different than I had imagined. My husband unexpectedly deployed, my sister passed away, and I was pregnant with my youngest daughter.

In the midst of that season, I finally decided to stop waiting. I reached out to a friend and colleague, and together we spent six months creating the Play Guide before Elevate Toddler Play officially launched.

Looking back, I realize I wasn’t just building a resource for other families. I was building something that gave me purpose during a season when I needed it most.

But this anniversary isn’t really about me. It’s about the thousands of families who have welcomed Elevate Toddler Play into their homes over the last three years.

Whether you’ve been here since day one or discovered Elevate Toddler Play last week, thank you. Every newsletter you’ve read, activity you’ve tried, message you’ve sent, and post you’ve shared has helped shape what this space has become.

One thing I hope for this next year is that this community continues to grow not just in size, but in connection. I want Elevate Toddler Play to be a place where parents feel encouraged to share their wins, ask questions, celebrate new skills, and remind one another that learning doesn’t have to be complicated.

Thank you for being here and for trusting me to be a small part of your toddler’s learning journey. I’m so grateful for this community and excited for what’s ahead.

Let’s Celebrate What’s Ahead

I’m especially looking forward to introducing Beyond the Toy, a new series for paid subscribers that will arrive every other month. This series brings me back to the original idea behind Elevate Toddler Play: helping parents see the learning opportunities in the toys they already have. In each edition, I’ll break down one everyday toy and show you exactly how I use it as a speech-language pathologist to build communication, play, and early learning skills.

To celebrate this milestone, everything in the shop is 20% off throughout August with the code 3YEARS. If you've been thinking about picking up the Play Guide or Daily Routine Guide, I hope this makes it a little easier to get started.

VISIT THE SHOP

As my youngest blows out three candles this month, Elevate Toddler Play will celebrate three years too.

I’m so grateful you’re here and excited for everything ahead.

Cheers to three years!

Summer is winding down, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably looking forward to getting back into a routine. I love the slower pace of summer, but I also do my best when our days have a little more structure to them.

One of my favorite parts of this summer was taking my oldest to Family Studio at our local visual arts center. It gave us dedicated one-on-one time, but what I appreciated most was how simple the projects were. They didn’t require expensive supplies or elaborate prep. Most of them could easily be recreated at home with materials we already had.

It reminded me why I created the Monthly Playdate in the first place: simple play ideas using everyday materials, toys, and routines to build early learning skills.

As “back-to-school” season rolls around, it’s easy to feel like you should be teaching your toddler letters, numbers, or other academic skills. But your toddler’s most important job right now isn’t memorizing facts.

It’s playing.

Play is how toddlers build the communication, problem-solving, and thinking skills that support future learning.

This month, we’re noticing how early academic skills naturally show up in play:

Week 1: Language & Literacy
Week 2: Math
Week 3: Science
Week 4: Thinking Skills

I hope that these activities help you notice more of the learning that’s already happening!

Access the August Play Calendar Below:

Note: This post may contain gifted items and affiliate links.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this a good learning toy?”

Toy MVP answers that question by highlighting one toy each month that supports communication, play, and learning. You’ll see why it stands out and get an easy activity to help you use it during play.

This month’s Toy MVP is a classic toy: Potato Head. I have fond memories of playing with this toy as a child, and I bet many of you do too. There’s something about creating a silly character that makes this toy so fun for toddlers.

But Potato Head isn’t just fun. It’s also a great tool for supporting early learning. From body parts and vocabulary to pretend play and problem solving, this toy opens the door to many opportunities for learning.

WHY IT STANDS OUT:

• Encourages body awareness through hands-on play.

• Body parts, colors, size, and spatial concepts come up naturally.

• Strengthens fine motor skills as children push and pull to put on and take off the pieces.

• There’s no “right way” to play, making it perfect for creativity and following your child’s lead.

LEARNING ACTIVITY: BODY PARTS

• For a younger toddler that’s just beginning to learn body parts, start with 1–2 body parts. Tell your child what they are and point them out on yourself, your child, and Potato Head.

• For example: You’re teaching them “eyes”. Give them a choice of two by holding up both the eyes and the nose. “Show me the eyes?” “You found the eyes!” Then they can put the eyes on with or without your assistance.

Tip: If your child is frustrated by questions, switch to statements instead: “I found the eyes. Let’s put them on.”

• For toddlers who are ready for more, talk about what each body part does: “It’s a nose. You smell with your nose.”

• Encourage your child to complete familiar phrases by pausing: “I found the…” “I have the…” or “You hear with your…” Wait a few seconds before helping.

I love books that easily lend themselves to an extension activity, and Not a Box by Antoinette Portis does just that. There’s a reason children are drawn to cardboard boxes. They are open-ended, inviting children to imagine endless possibilities. A box can become a car, a rocket ship, a house, a boat, or anything else they dream up.

This simple story is a great reminder that pretend play starts with ordinary materials and a little imagination. Grab a cardboard box and invite your child to transform it into something new. It’s the perfect book and inside activity for a hot or rainy day.

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Q: My toddler asks me questions they already know the answer to. They'll point to a dog and ask, "What's that?" even though they know it's a dog. Why do they do that?

A: Great question! Toddlers ask questions they already know the answer to for lots of reasons, and it’s usually not because they’ve forgotten.

A familiar answer can be reassuring, and asking questions is one way toddlers connect with the people around them. They may be checking that they still have the right word, or they could simply be imitating you. After all, we ask our toddlers questions all day long! Asking questions is one way they learn how to start and continue conversations.

Think about it this way. Adults do this too! We might ask, “Isn’t it such a beautiful day?” We already know the answer, but we’re using the question to connect with someone else.

While this certainly isn’t an exhaustive list, these are a few common reasons you might hear your toddler asking questions they already know the answer to.

So, should you answer every time? Yes! These moments are opportunities to build language naturally.

If your toddler points to a dog and asks, “What’s that?” you could simply respond, “It’s a dog!” Then, if they’re ready, expand the conversation just a little.

“It’s a big, fluffy dog. Look! The dog is running. I wonder where he’s going?”

You don’t have to turn the question back on them by saying, “Well, what’s that?” Simply answer their question, then add one more thought. Those little “I wonder...” statements invite your toddler to keep thinking and talking without putting pressure on them to have the “right” answer.

Instead of thinking of these questions as a test, think of them as an invitation to have a conversation.

The more back-and-forth interactions your toddler has, the more opportunities they have to hear new words, practice language, and strengthen their communication skills.

So the next time your toddler asks about something they already know, don’t worry that they’re forgetting. They’re doing exactly what young children are meant to do: learning through connection and conversation.

Disclaimer: The information shared here is general and educational in nature. It is not a substitute for individualized support from a licensed speech therapist or healthcare professional. For concerns specific to your child, consult a professional who knows your family.

RELATED POSTS YOU’LL ALSO FIND HELPFUL:

TOOLS FOR BOOSTING TODDLER LANGUAGE SKILLS:

SAVE 10% WITH CODE: LETSPLAY

Play Notes is a paid subscriber bonus that drops halfway through each month. The Monthly Play Date Calendar gives you the plan. This is where we pause and look at your child. I’ll guide you on how to adjust activities for your child’s age and stage.

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My printer is on its last leg, so when I went to print July’s calendar, the pages didn’t come out as they should.

Thankfully, none of this month’s activities require a printer and can be quickly referenced on a phone or desktop.

Don’t get me wrong. I use printables sometimes. But I’ve realized over the years that I’m usually more excited about the printable than my child is. My almost 3-year-old would much rather engage in play or create something on a blank sheet of paper than complete a worksheet.

One of the reasons I love play-based activities is that they grow with your child. A printable worksheet usually has one intended purpose. Play can be adapted in countless ways.

The same activity can be adapted for a younger toddler or an older toddler. A simple invitation to play can grow right alongside your child.

That’s exactly what Play Notes is all about.

Each month, we take two activities from the Monthly Playdate and explore simple ways to modify them. Not because there’s a “right” way to do the activity, but because every child brings something different to play.

My hope is that, over time, these examples help you feel more confident making adjustments on the fly, following your child’s lead, and getting even more out of the activities you’re already doing together.

Let’s take a look at this month’s activities.

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You’ve most likely been doing many of the things your child needs most. Flashcards and traditional “school prep” activities are not what build readiness in the toddler years.

The routines you already move through together and the play happening on your living room floor are the preparation.

Your child learns through participating in life with you!

So what does preschool readiness actually look like in real life? Usually, it shows up in the everyday moments you may not even realize count as learning. Let’s look at a few of the areas where those skills grow most.

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First published July 2025 | Updated July 2026

Communication Starts at Home

Long before your toddler raises their hand in a classroom, they’re practicing communication with you.

Every time they ask for more milk, tell you they’re all done, point out an airplane, or call your name from another room, they’re learning that words help them connect with other people.

Those everyday conversations are exactly what preschool builds on. Instead of feeling frustrated, they have a way to ask for help, join a game, greet a teacher, or tell someone what they need.

You’re already building this when you:

• pause to let them finish a familiar phrase (”Time to put on your...”)

• talk together during meals, walks, or play

• model simple phrases like “I need help” or “No, thank you”

• respond to their attempts to communicate, even if the words aren’t perfect

The words you share today are the ones they'll reach for when you're not there.

Everyday Routines Build Understanding

Your daily routines might be the best classroom prep your toddler has.

When you ask your toddler to put their shoes by the door, wash their hands before lunch, or clean up before heading out the door, they’re learning to understand language and follow directions.

Those same skills help preschool feel familiar. Classrooms are filled with simple directions, transitions, and concepts like in, on, under, first, next, more, and all done. Because your child has heard those words at home, they already have a foundation to build on.

You can naturally strengthen these skills by:

• inviting your toddler to help with everyday jobs

• using words like in, under, next to, big, little, and more throughout the day

• giving one- or two-step directions during routines

• keeping predictable rhythms like “First we clean up, then we go outside.”

We’re giving them the words that help them participate in the world around them.

Play Is Practice for Preschool

The play happening on your living room floor is preparing your toddler for the classroom.

When they pretend to cook dinner or build block towers with you, they’re practicing the same skills they’ll use with classmates.

Through play, children learn to share ideas, solve problems, take turns, try again when something doesn’t go their way, and enjoy being with other people.

You do this when you:

• join in during pretend play and add to their ideas

• practice turn-taking with simple games

• help name emotions when challenges come up

• model phrases like “Can I have a turn?” or “Let’s do it together.”

Play isn’t separate from learning. It is the learning.

You’ve Been Preparing Them All Along

Preschool readiness isn’t built in a workbook or a last-minute checklist.

It’s built while reading one more bedtime story, talking in the grocery store, blowing bubbles, and pretending to feed a beloved stuffed bear.

These ordinary moments may not look like school, but they’re exactly where the skills for school begin.

So if preschool is around the corner and you’re wondering if your child is ready, remember this: you’ve already started.

Preschool doesn’t mark the beginning of your child’s learning journey.

It’s simply the next place they’ll take the skills they’ve already been building at home.

PRACTICAL TOOLS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS:

• The Play Guide

• The Daily Routine Guide

• Resources

My toddler walked over. I proudly showed her the whole setup. She looked at it, played for maybe five minutes, and moved on.

So where did I go wrong?

Well, go figure…I didn’t follow my own advice.

Let them help with the setup.

Setting up is a part of following their lead. I had planned the whole thing myself, which meant she had zero say in it. I’d basically handed her a finished product and expected her to be excited about my vision. That wasn’t my intention, but just because I thought it would be fun doesn’t mean she would.

The next day, I tried again, except this time I invited her to help. She grabbed a marker, scribbled a few lines, and announced it was a road. She had a Peppa toy and asked me to draw a mud puddle. We went back and forth like that for a few minutes. I backed away and she played on her own for 45 minutes.

Setting up together is part of play and learning. Don't skip it!

Keep reading, and we'll talk about why involving your toddler in setting up play matters. We’ll explore simple ways to use that time for learning while following their lead, and when to step back and let free play take over.

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The Play Starts Here

Toddlers do not separate setup from play the way adults do.

For us, setup might feel like a task to get from point A to point B. We gather materials and get everything ready so the activity can begin. For toddlers, the fun has already started. Carrying the bucket, choosing materials, or pouring water into a bin is part of the play.

When children create the play experience, they often stay engaged longer. Preparing for an activity gives them a chance to have a say in what happens next. And let’s be honest, children spend much of their day being told where to go, what to do, and when to do it. Play is one of the few spaces that truly belongs to them.

Our role is to observe, guide, teach, and know when to step back.

When children are given opportunities to make choices and take ownership, we learn more about what interests them and how they learn best.

Next time you’re tempted to design the whole activity, invite your toddler into the setup. Let them choose the materials or decide where things go. When we stay present here, we start to notice just how much learning is already happening.

Learning in the Setup

There are often far more opportunities for learning during setup than we realize.

Talk with your toddler about where you are going, what you are doing, and how you are getting there.

This might sound like:
“We’re going to play outside. What should we bring outside with us?”

“We’re looking for some spoons and cups. Let’s bring them to the water table.”

“That’s a great idea! We can use the small bowl too!”

We’re matching what we’re saying with what we're doing and what’s happening to support language development naturally. There’s no need to test your child or have a certain outcome in mind; we’re including them and connecting with them first.

As you gather materials together, there are endless opportunities to model language. You might offer simple choices like whether to use a bucket or a cup, gather cars or animals, or play indoors or outdoors. Along the way, you’re naturally introducing power words such as in, out, more, up, and go, while also exposing your child to basic concepts like big and small, full and empty, or wet and dry.

Imagine you’re setting up a water play activity. Your child helps fill a bucket, carry it outside, and pour it into the water table. Together, you’ve talked about where you’re going, what you’re bringing, and what comes next. You’ve used words like full, empty, in, out, and more. Your toddler is experiencing these concepts as they happen, which gives the words meaning.

By the time the activity “begins”, you've already created opportunities for connection, language, and learning!

Let Them Take It From Here

Once everything is set up, take a step back.

After spending time gathering materials and creating an inviting space, it can be tempting to direct the play. But children often need time to explore and make sense of the materials on their own.

Allow them to approach the play in a way that feels natural to them.

They may use the materials exactly as you imagined. They may come up with something completely different. Both are okay.

The setup might have taken longer than you planned. However, the setup was the connection. It was part of the learning.

Now, you have options.

Maybe you use this time to fold a basket of laundry, savor that cup of hot coffee, or simply enjoy a few uninterrupted minutes to yourself. If your child is safely engaged with you nearby, give yourself permission to do it.

Or maybe you stay and play!

If you decide to stay and play, keep following your child's lead. Guided play isn't about directing every moment. It's about joining your child where they are, making thoughtful comments, asking the occasional question, and knowing when to step back again.

Sometimes our role is to participate. Sometimes our role is to make space. Both are valuable!

A Simple Shift

The first time I set up the paper road activity, I was too focused on creating the perfect invitation to play.

My toddler didn’t want or need me to create the perfect setup. She wanted to be part of creating it.

The simplest shift makes the biggest difference.

So the next time you’re preparing an activity, remember: play doesn’t begin when everything is ready.

Play begins in the preparation, too.

Ready to Bring This Into Everyday Life?

This way of thinking is the foundation of both the Play Guide and Daily Routine Guide.

The Play Guide helps you use the toys you already own to support language through guided play, complete with power words, basic concepts, and simple strategies.

The Daily Routine Guide takes the same approach beyond play, showing you how everyday routines can become meaningful opportunities for communication and learning.

Supporting your child’s development doesn’t require doing more. It can simply start with seeing everyday moments differently.

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If you’re wondering whether you’re doing enough educational activities with your toddler, this month’s Playdate is a great reminder that learning doesn’t have to look like worksheets or structured lessons.

Every activity includes an area of focus, such as language, early math, science, social skills, and more, so you can see how play builds the foundation for future academic success. When toddlers are playing, they’re developing the skills they’ll use later for reading, writing, problem-solving, and learning in school.

Here’s what we’re exploring in July:

Week 1: Camping

Week 2: Music

Week 3: Pets

Week 4: Ice Cream

I hope you’ll join us for a month full of fun and learning.

Make this your Summer of Play. Become a paid subscriber by June 30 and get 20% off your first 3 months.

Summer of Play Pass

Note: This post may contain gifted items and affiliate links.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this a good toy?”

Toy MVP answers that question by highlighting one toy each month that supports language, play, and learning. You’ll see why it stands out and get an easy activity to help you use it during play.

This month’s Toy MVP is the sensory play dough kits from Young, Wild & Friedman.

It’s almost embarrassing how many brands of play dough I’ve bought over the years in search of the perfect one. I can confidently say this one has remained a favorite. The kits are much more than just play dough. They are thoughtfully designed, and both of my kids (ages 7 and almost 3) play with them regularly.

If your child is still mouthing toys, I would wait on these. The kits are recommended for ages 3 and up due to potential choking hazards.

WHY IT STANDS OUT:

• The play dough smells amazing and has a texture that holds up well to lots of play.

• The themed kits change often, so there’s always something fun to explore, especially if you love seasonal and holiday activities.

• It supports both guided play and free play.

• The included accessories become toys in their own right and can be used in many other play setups.

ACTIVITIES TO SUPPORT EARLY LEARNING SKILLS

• Math: Count the pom poms, gems, or other pieces in the kit. As you count, help your child touch or move one item for each number word to build one-to-one correspondence.

• Science: Explore and sort the materials by their properties. Which items are hard? Which are soft? Talk about how they feel and compare different textures.

• Fine Motor: Hide pieces in the play dough and encourage your child to use their fingers to dig, pinch, pull, and uncover the hidden treasures.

• Language: Follow your child’s imagination and join their pretend play. If the princess is tired, does she need a bed? Is the unicorn flying over a lake? Build on your child’s ideas by describing actions, adding details, and introducing new words as you play together.

I was excited to have the opportunity to review How to Be an Awesome Toddler: 50 Rhymes to Make Growing Up Exciting and Fun! by Rachelle Burk and Denise Holmes before its release on July 7.

I wasn’t sure what to expect and ended up pleasantly surprised. I don’t automatically recommend every book or toy that comes my way, so if I’m sharing something here, it’s because I genuinely enjoyed it and think it has value for this community.

There’s a short rhyme for just about anything a toddler might encounter, including some situations parents may not think to address. My favorites were the safety rhymes. Safety can be tricky to talk about with young children, and these rhymes introduce important ideas in a way that feels approachable and toddler-friendly.

How to Be an Awesome Toddler creates natural opportunities for conversation and learning. That's a win in my book! 😉

Access the July Play Calendar Below:

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Q: I bought flashcards for my toddler, but they honestly have no interest in sitting down to learn things like colors or numbers. They’d rather run around and play. Am I doing something wrong? I’m worried they’ll fall behind.

A: First, you’re not doing anything wrong! It’s great that you are being proactive and wanting to support learning.

Your toddler running around and playing is not getting in the way of learning. That is learning in the toddler years!

You’re not alone in feeling the pressure to make toddler learning look more structured than it actually needs to be. Most toddlers are not naturally interested in sitting still for flashcards or structured teaching activities for very long. That does not mean they are behind or not learning!

Through play and routines, toddlers build language, problem solving, attention, social skills, and early concepts like colors, counting, turn taking, big/little, in/out, and so much more.

Try incorporating learning into the things your toddler already enjoys. Guided play is one of the easiest ways to support hands-on, minds-on learning in a way that feels natural and fun for toddlers.

You’re doing great!

Disclaimer: The information shared here is general and educational in nature. It is not a substitute for individualized support from a licensed speech therapist or healthcare professional. For concerns specific to your child, consult a professional who knows your family.

SAVE 10% WITH CODE: LETSPLAY

RELATED POSTS YOU’LL ALSO FIND HELPFUL:

Play Notes is a paid subscriber bonus that drops halfway through each month. The Monthly Play Date Calendar gives you the plan. This is where we pause and look at your child. I’ll guide you on how to adjust activities for your child’s age and stage.

Subscribe now

Have you ever seen a really cute toddler activity on Pinterest, only for it to completely flop at home?

Something that looks cute online does not always match your child’s stage.

When you learn how to meet your toddler where they are and follow their lead, activities usually feel less frustrating and more successful for everyone involved.

That’s the goal of Play Notes. I want you to feel confident adjusting activities instead of wondering if you’re doing them “right.”

In this month’s Play Notes, we’ll walk through two activities from the June Monthly Playdate together and look at simple ways to modify them across the toddler years. I hope it also helps you start spotting ways to adjust other activities on your own.

That’s probably not the best marketing strategy for me. Ha. But truly, I want you to feel equipped to do this confidently in your everyday life.

Let’s get started!

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In the middle of the chaos, there is often a pull for something different. You may want your mornings to feel slower, more like a weekend morning. You may wonder if you connected with your child before rushing out the door. You may think about whether there was room for play, conversation, or learning in the middle of it all.

At the same time, it’s hard to imagine adding more to a routine that already feels full.

Instead of adding more, let’s look at what is already there and make a few small shifts. The routines you already move through each day hold opportunities for connection, communication, and learning. A small change in how you move through them can change the feel of your morning.

Today, I’m collaborating with , author of The Joyful Child, to share simple shifts that can help your mornings feel calmer, more connected, and more playful while also supporting your child’s communication and learning.

Small Shifts Throughout Your Morning Routine

When there is regulation for both you and your toddler, it becomes easier to connect. And when you feel connected, communication works better. Playful learning becomes easier too!

You do not need to try every tip or completely change your mornings. Take what feels helpful for your family and leave the rest.

Under each part of the morning routine, you’ll find a simple way to add a moment of calm and connection from Kira, along with an easy way to support communication through the routine from me.

Let’s find one small shift that resonates with you and try it tomorrow morning.

1. First Moments Together

The first few minutes after your toddler wakes up can shape the feel of the whole morning. Instead of jumping straight into directions and rushing to the next step, try slowing down enough for a little mindfulness.

Create a moment of calm and connection:

GOOD MORNING, BODY!

This playful body scan helps children develop the critical skill of self-awareness, as you encourage them to take the time to check in with their bodies instead of careening through the day on autopilot. It starts the day with a moment of mindful presence, and it’s just the right amount of silly fun, too. This works great as the first thing you do when you wake your child up!

🎶This pairs beautifully with Kira’s song “Thank You, Body!”

Here’s how it goes:

Let’s say good morning to our bodies.

Reach all the way down and tickle your toes. Good morning, toes!

How do your toes feel this morning?

(Encourage children to respond to each question! You can do it too if you like.)

Now, find your knees. Oh, hi, knees!

How do your knees feel this morning?

Put your hands on your belly and give it a little rub. Hey, belly!

Take a long breath in, and let it out. How does your belly feel this morning?

Put your hands over your heart. Hello, heart!

Take a breath in, and let it out. How does your heart feel this morning?

Put your hands on your head, where your smart brain is.

Good morning, brain! Take a breath in, and let it out. How does your brain feel this morning?

Bring your hands down, and give your whole body a little shake.

How does your whole body feel this morning?

Good morning, body!

Support Communication Through the Routine:

After you wake up your own bodies, pretend to “wake up” stuffed animals and stretch together. Small playful moments like these help toddlers feel connected while also building language through repetition and shared attention. This is a perfect way to learn and practice naming body parts too!

“Wake up, bunny! Time to stretch your long ears!”

“Wake up, bear. Touch your toes!”

2. Getting Dressed

Getting dressed with a toddler can feel like a full negotiation before 8 a.m. Suddenly, the only clean shirt is “too itchy,” shorts belong in winter, and socks are deeply offensive. Even so, this routine holds simple chances for connection, communication, and learning.

Create a moment of calm and connection:

THE WEATHER REPORT

Help children recognize and name what’s happening inside them using a concept they naturally understand: the weather. This simple and fun activity normalizes all emotions—from sunny days to thunderstorms, and everything in between—while gently introducing the concept that feelings, like the weather, are always changing.

🎶The perfect song pairing: “The Weather Inside”

Here’s what to say:

Let’s take a look outside. What kind of weather are we having today? Tell me what you see!

(Take a moment to observe the current weather with your child.)

Now let’s take a deep breath in, and let it all the way out. What’s the weather like inside you?

Do you feel sunny, or chilly, or rainy inside? Do you feel stormy or frosty? Or maybe you feel some other way?

(Let your child respond about what kind of “weather” they feel like inside. After they’re done, you could share your “weather” if you like.)

Maybe you feel like a few of these, all at the same time!

Any kind of weather is okay.

The weather is always changing. It will probably feel like something different tomorrow!

Let’s take another long breath in, and let it all the way out.

Support Communication Through the Routine:

Look outside or check the forecast and share your thoughts out loud to help them learn how to make decisions. Discuss what clothing works best for different types of weather.

“Wow, it’s hot outside today! Let’s find some shorts and a t-shirt to stay cool.”

“It looks like it’s going to rain later. What do you think we should wear to the store? A raincoat? That’s a great idea!”

3. Breakfast

Breakfast gives toddlers food for the day ahead and a chance for connection and conversation before heading out the door.

Create a moment of calm and connection:

THANKS FOR THE FOOD

This gentle gratitude practice encourages children to connect with their food’s journey to your table, helping them recognize and appreciate the many hands that helped bring them their meal.

🎶 Try playing the song “Where’s It From?”

What to say:

Take a long breath in, and let it all the way out.

Someone grew the food you’re eating today.

Let’s say thank you to the person who grew it.

Thank you!

Someone put your food in a package.

Let’s say thank you to the person who put it in a package.

Thank you!

Someone served you that food.

Let’s say thank you to the person who served it to you.

Thank you!

Take a long breath in, and let it all the way out.

Support Communication Through the Routine:

This is a quick one that can be useful on those mornings that feel rushed. During breakfast, talk about the food on your plate. Focus on how it looks, tastes, and feels. Instead of asking questions, try commenting. Make it a conversation without pressure.

“The apple is red and crunchy.”

“The pancake is soft, and the syrup is sticky!”

4. Getting Out the Door

The transition out of the house and into the day ahead can feel hard for little ones. So much of this is still new to them, and they are learning what to expect as they move through their day.

Create a moment of calm and connection:

TODAY, I’M GOING TO BE…

This simple intention-setting exercise empowers children to shape their day rather than just react to it. It fits right into your morning routine, taking no extra time—do it during breakfast, getting dressed, or in the car. When you share your own word too, it creates a lovely moment of connection. Bonus: circle back at bedtime to reflect on how your words played out, creating a sweet end-of-day ritual.

🎶A fun, empowering song to play with this one: What’s the Word?

Here’s the how-to:

Let’s take a long breath in, and let it all the way out. Finish this sentence in your mind: “Today, I’m going to be…”

You could pick a word like “friendly,” or “kind,” or “helpful,” or any other good word you like.

Pick your own good word to finish this sentence: “Today, I’m going to be…”

Do you want to share your word?

(Invite child to share. You pick a word too, and share yours!)

Let’s do our best to remember our word all day.

Let’s take another long breath in, and let it all the way out!

Support Communication Through the Routine:

As you head out the door, talk through the plan for the day together. Toddlers often feel more connected and regulated when they know what to expect. These simple conversations also help build understanding, sequencing, and everyday vocabulary.

“You’re going to school today, and Grandma will pick you up after nap.”

“First, we’re going to the grocery store, then we’ll come home for lunch.”

“We need your backpack, water bottle, and shoes before we go.”

Tomorrow Morning

There will still be rushed mornings, spilled milk, missing shoes, and toddlers who suddenly decide they no longer want to wear pants. That does not mean connection, communication, and learning are lost.

Small moments still count.

A playful comment while getting dressed. A fun song while waking up and getting out of bed. A conversation about the weather while finding shoes. These simple moments help build connection over time, and connection helps toddlers feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Tomorrow morning, try one small shift and see what happens!

If you enjoyed these ideas…

Kira Willey shares simple ways to bring mindfulness and connection into everyday life in The Joyful Child.

For more ideas that support communication and learning through everyday routines, explore Elevate Toddler Play’s Day by Day guide.

This summer, instead of looking for something extra to do, let’s look at what is already in front of us. Here are 10 real-life skills to practice with your toddler right now, plus how to boost language at every turn.

Start where you are. Pick a few that fit. Let the rest go.

These small steps? They really do add up!

First published May 2025 | Updated June 2026

Don’t forget, the Summer of Play Pass (20% off 3 months) ends June 30th!

Summer Play Pass

10 Life Skills for Toddlers

Plus tips to boost language along the way.

1. CHOOSING AN OUTFIT

Let your toddler pick between two options. Hold them up and label them out loud: “Red shirt or green shirt?” If your toddler points or uses one or two words, that’s great! You can model an expanded version: “You want the green shirt!”

This simple choice gives your toddler a voice. It introduces autonomy, and when you name what they choose, you’re building language and self-trust. These tiny decisions are practice for bigger ones down the road.

2. WASHING OR WIPING THEIR FACE

Try this after snacks or meals. Model it first: “I’m wiping my mouth.” Use the mirror and name parts of the face (cheeks, chin, forehead) and concepts like wet/dry or clean/dirty.

These little routines help toddlers recognize themselves, literally and emotionally. They’re learning to care for their own bodies, and you’re teaching more than hygiene. You’re helping them feel capable and known.

3. BRUSHING (OR FLOSSING) TEETH

Make it playful. Take turns being the dentist and the patient. Sequence the steps: “First we brush the top... next the bottom…” Introduce opposites like top/bottom, front/back.

Yes, we care that their teeth are clean. But what we’re really focusing on here is the rhythm and self-care. The more fun you make it, the more your child learns: taking care of myself can feel good. And hey, don’t forget to smile!

4. WIPING UP A SPILL

Spills happen. Instead of jumping right in to solve the problem, say: “Hmm, I wonder what we can do.” Name the items and talk through the cleanup process.

When we let our kids take part in the cleanup, we give them ownership instead of shame. Mistakes are part of life, and we can respond with care.

5. MATCHING SOCKS

Invite your child to help with laundry. Talk about size, color, and whether socks match. “You found a match!” “These are different.”

There’s something grounding about tiny tasks that connect us to the rhythms of home. Matching socks may feel small, but your toddler is learning patterns, persistence, and what it feels like to be helpful.

6. WASHING FRUITS AND VEGGIES

Let them help in the kitchen. “We’re washing strawberries. What else can we wash?” Talk about textures, colors, and shapes.

Washing produce becomes a sensory experience. Wet skin, cool water, slippery hands. In some ways, it’s a chance to marvel at the ordinary. It’s also a way to teach gratitude for the food we eat and where it comes from.

7. SETTING THE TABLE

Give them a “job” before meals, like placing napkins or forks. Count out each item together: “One fork, two forks...” Talk about what each item is for.

When children contribute to shared routines, they feel a sense of belonging. It’s their table too. These small acts of service say: your presence matters here.

8. PUTTING AWAY GROCERIES

Let them carry a light bag or unpack something small. Sort what goes in the fridge vs. the pantry. Label foods and model teamwork: “Let’s work together!”

Inviting your toddler into real tasks shows them they’re capable. It’s not just about putting things away; it’s about growing up together. You’re not alone. You’re in good company.

9. WATERING PLANTS

Let your toddler help water a houseplant or garden. Use a small watering can and take your time. Talk about what plants need to grow (sun, water, and soil) and name parts like leaves, stems, or flowers.

In a world that often rushes us along, this is a slow moment. Your toddler gets to see that their small hands can care for something and watch it grow. We may just be watering a plant, but we’re also noticing, tending, and learning that some of the best things take time.

10. WASHING OUTDOOR TOYS

Grab the scooter, the dirt-covered dump truck, or that well-loved ball. Fill a bucket with soapy water, hand over a sponge, and let your toddler go to town. Narrate the moment with rich vocabulary: soapy, scrub, rinse, wet/dry, clean/dirty.

This is childhood at its best. The sun is on their back and water is dripping down their elbows. We may be cleaning toys, but we’re also letting real life feel like play. It’s about joy tucked into the ordinary. And those sudsy little hands? They’re learning and growing… right alongside you.

That’s it! This isn’t a to-do list or curriculum. It’s an invitation to slow down.

Toddlers learn through hands-on play and meaningful routines.

You’ve got what you need!

And they’ve got you.

Small things hold big potential.

PS. If you liked today’s post, then you’ll love the Daily Routine Guide. It’s filled with easy, play-based ways to support your toddler’s development through the routines you’re already doing.

It’s only $12.
Simple. Practical.
Let this be your summer plan.

Paid subscribers: Grab your Toddler Life Skills Checklist below! Stick it on the fridge or tuck it in your planner!

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We’re in the final stretch of the school year over here, and it has me thinking about what I want summer to feel like for my kids.

There has been a lot of talk online about a “90s summer.” At its core, it’s a craving for something simpler. Somehow, a hot day with a garden sprinkler and an endless supply of popsicles got overshadowed by Instagrammable activities and elaborate trips from our social media feed.

A simple summer feels like something to come back to.

That’s the direction for this month’s play calendar. Each week has a theme & all the activities are simple, but are packed with learning opportunities.

Week 1: Water Play

Week 2: On the Go

Week 3: Home Helper

Week 4: Backyard Fun

As always, all activities are aligned with early childhood development in mind.

Here’s to a summer that feels good, not just looks good!

☀️SUMMER OF PLAY PASS ☀️

For a limited time, get discounted access to The Monthly Playdate for the next 3 months.

A playful summer starts here!

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

If you've ever found yourself wondering, “Is this a good learning toy?”

Toy MVP answers that question by highlighting one toy each month that supports language, play, and learning. You’ll see why it stands out and get an easy activity to help you use it during play.

This month, the Toy MVP is Spike’s Bubble Blower and Botanical Bubbles.

These will be a staple all summer long, outside on hot days and even inside when we need a quick, easy activity.

Bubbles are a favorite for toddlers and speech therapists for a reason. They create so many natural opportunities for communication. You get commenting, requests, turn-taking, shared joy, and more without having to plan a thing.

Bubbles are also one of the ten toys featured in the Play by Play guide, because they make it easy to build language right into play.

WHY IT STANDS OUT:

• The bubble blower wand makes A TON of bubbles.

• The wand design helps limit liquid from getting pulled back, which means less bubble solution in little mouths.

• The formula is gentle on the skin.

• It’s not sticky, which makes indoor play feel a lot more manageable.

LEARNING ACTIVITY: BODY PARTS

• Talk about where the bubble popped during play. If your child is just learning about body parts, keep it simple. “It popped on my head.” “I popped it with my finger.” Start with one or two body parts, then add more in a different play session.

• Try adding new or less familiar body parts over time. “It popped on my wrist.” “I’m going to pop it with my elbow.”

• Offer choices to invite participation. “Do you want to pop it with your finger or your toes?” “Do you want me to blow bubbles on your head or your belly?”

Fun Fact: According to research, most toddlers start to understand simple body parts like head, hands, feet, and tummy around 18–20 months. More specific parts like fingers and toes usually come later, around age two.

Here are two books to add to your library list: one for younger toddlers and one for older toddlers. Both are perfect for summer reading!

Baby Loves Summer by Karen Katz: Lift-the-flap books are great for keeping toddlers engaged. This book covers the perfect summer vocabulary. The simple pictures make it easy to point, label, and repeat words, your child can connect to what they see and feel during the season.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall: Relatable for toddlers learning new skills, and helps them understand emotions like being nervous or scared. It opens the door for simple conversations about feelings, waiting, and trying again. You can pause and talk through what Jabari is thinking, which supports both language and emotional growth.

Access the June Play Calendar Below:

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Q: Should I correct my toddler when they say words wrong? My son says "lellow" instead of yellow and "fwog" instead of frog. I don't want to embarrass him or make him afraid to talk, but I don't want him to keep saying things wrong either.

A: You can correct your toddler, but the way you do it matters more than the correction itself.

Instead of pointing out the mistake, model the word the right way. Keep it natural. If your child says “fwog,” you respond with “yes, that frog is so cool.” You over emphasize the word and slow down while saying it, making sure they’re watching. The conversation will keep moving, they’ll hear the correct production, and there’s no pressure attached to it.

If your child seems willing, you can gently encourage them to try repeating you. However, don’t harp on it. You don’t want speech to feel like a test or create anxiety around talking. The goal is always more communication and confidence.

Most toddler speech errors are completely age appropriate, and many of them go away on their own without any intervention. “Fwog” for frog and “lellow” for yellow are actually really common. Most of the time kids work those out naturally as their speech matures.

Speech therapists usually don’t begin targeting specific speech sounds until around age 3 (of course, there are exceptions). Our expectations for how clearly a toddler should be understood shift quite a bit between ages 2 and 3. At age 2, it’s typical for a familiar listener to understand about 50% of what they say. By age 3, that jumps to around 75%. So if your 2-year-old is hard to understand, that may be completely right on track.

If your child’s speech errors are hanging around longer than expected, or if you’re noticing that understanding isn’t growing over time, then it’s a good time to connect with a speech-language pathologist. An evaluation can give you a clear picture of where your child is and whether any support would help.

You know your child best. If something feels off, trust that instinct. But if your toddler is just out here calling frogs “fwogs”… enjoy it. It probably won’t last as long as you think!

I’d love to hear those cute mispronunciations your child did or still does! My oldest used to call her elbow her “Elmo.” I bet I’m still telling that story at 80. 🥹

Disclaimer: The information shared here is general and educational in nature. It is not a substitute for individualized support from a licensed speech therapist or healthcare professional. For concerns specific to your child, consult a professional who knows your family.

RELATED POSTS YOU’LL ALSO FIND HELPFUL:

TURN YOUR TOYS AND ROUTINES INTO LEARNING ACTIVITIES:

SAVE 10% WITH CODE: LETSPLAY

Play Notes is a paid subscriber bonus that drops halfway through each month. The Monthly Play Date Calendar gives you the plan. This is where we pause and look at your child. I’ll guide you on how to adjust activities for your child’s age and stage.

Subscribe now

Play is how toddlers make sense of the world and you are the person who makes that possible! These last two weeks of the May Monthly Playdate are designed to be flexible and full of real learning moments that don't require any special materials or a perfect plan. Just you, your child, and a little intention. Let's take a closer look at possible modifications for two of this month's activities.

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A toddler gently stirs and the flour stays in the bowl. The parent smiles while soft music plays in the background.

And you think, yeah, my toddler would never.

Honestly, same.

Depending on your toddler’s personality, cooking together can look more like chaos rather than a fun, calming activity. This post is not meant to convince you to prepare a four-course meal with your toddler. We can all agree that life often requires us to simply get food on the table.

However, let me kindly remind you (and myself), that the kitchen holds many opportunities for hands-on learning. When toddlers join us at the counter, they practice far more than stirring and pouring.

And as a sweet bonus, these small moments create memories that last longer than the cookies on the plate.

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What Toddlers Learn in the Kitchen

Invite your toddler into the kitchen, and watch the fun and learning unfold.

Language

Pretend you’re three years old and hear “spatula.” Well, that sounds like a funny word! Your dad sees you’re intrigued and tells you, “This is a spatula. I’m flipping pancakes with it. Wanna watch?” You’re amazed with all the flipping, and he hands you a plate with a pancake and a spatula for you to try it on your own (away from the hot stove, of course). If you’re three, that IS so fun. You learned a new word and what it does without even realizing it.

Being in the kitchen and cooking surrounds toddlers with words that connect to actions and objects, many of which they’ll only encounter in the kitchen. Words like spatula, whisk, blender, colander, and measuring cup are just a few that come to mind. Hearing and using these words in context helps toddlers learn the names of everyday tools around them.

Let’s go back to our scenario. You’re three and having fun attempting to flip your pancake, but now you’re hungry. Your mom comes over and pours some syrup on your pancake (sticky hands incoming!). All of your senses are alive at that kitchen counter. The pancake is soft, warm, and now sticky — oh, and it’s the shape of a circle too. There are SO many describing words and basic concepts right on the plate. When toddlers use their seven senses while hearing these words, the experience helps them process the language and connect it to their world.

Sequencing

The learning starts before you even open the recipe. First, let's wash our hands. Then we'll dry them. Next, we'll gather the ingredients. Sound familiar? First, then, next, and last are words toddlers need to hear and practice across all kinds of settings, daily routines, cooking, play, and eventually the classroom. Cooking together gives toddlers a natural, low-pressure way to experience sequencing in action. All of that practice sets them up for success down the road.

Math and Science

Recipes naturally bring early math and science to life. Let’s pour 1 cup of water into the big bowl. We need two eggs. Let’s count them together. Without even realizing it, your toddler is doing math. They’re counting, measuring, and comparing. They’re figuring out that two eggs means exactly two and are practicing a foundational math concept called one-to-one correspondence.

Then there’s the science. You mix and something new appears. You add heat and the batter becomes a pancake or a cookie. Butter goes from solid to liquid right before their eyes. Cause and effect, change over time, and the properties of matter are all unfolding on the stovetop.

Ask your toddler what they think will happen before you mix, bake, or taste. Do you think it’ll be hot or cold? Hard or soft? They’re forming a hypothesis, and that curiosity and predict-then-observe cycle is exactly how scientists think. The kitchen just smells a lot better than a lab.

Connection

Cooking together slows the pace of the day. A parent and toddler side by side, talking, counting, and laughing when something spills, builds trust, strengthens communication, and creates memories that last. And it turns out, learning grows best in exactly this kind of moment.

Recipes to Try Together

Ready to get in the kitchen? I asked to share a few simple recipes with easy ways for your toddler to help. All that learning? This is where it comes to life.

How to involve your toddler:

• Let them cut softened apples with a toddler-safe knife or using a toddler-safe peeler to peel the apples

• Add the oats & flour into the mixing bowl

• Scoop out the applesauce (be silly & lick some off your fingers with them!)

• Stir the ingredients

• Have them scoop out the dough onto the baking sheet

Apple Cookies Recipe

1.27MB ∙ PDF file

Download

Download

More details & substitutions:

https://toddlerdietitiantiff.com/healthy-baked-apple-fritters/

How to involve your toddler:

• Stir the yogurt mixture together

• Spread the yogurt mixture on the baking sheet (can even be silly and “draw” with their fingers)

• Sprinkle toppings

• Dip the toppings in the yogurt mixture for a fun activity snack

Yogurt Bark Recipe

668KB ∙ PDF file

Download

Download

More details & substitutions:

https://toddlerdietitiantiff.com/strawberry-cheesecake-yogurt-bark/

How to involve your toddler:

• Add the dry cereal into the bowl

• Pour the peanut butter in and scrape with their finger (lick!)

• Stir the ingredients

• Help press down in the pan

• Put sprinkles or mini chocolate chips on top

Cereal Bars Recipe

1.11MB ∙ PDF file

Download

Download

More details & subsitutions:

https://toddlerdietitiantiff.com/easy-no-bake-cereal-bars/

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