10 Must-Try Activities for Your Early Walker: Boost Development and Fun
Welcoming an early walker into the family is an exciting milestone! This phase is all about exploration, learning, and, of course, a little bit of chaos. As parents, we’re always looking for ways to support our little ones as they discover the world on their two tiny feet. Here are some fun and engaging activities that cater to the curiosity and energy of early walkers:
1. Obstacle Courses
Create a safe, baby-friendly obstacle course using pillows, soft blocks, and tunnels. This will encourage your child to practice walking and help develop their motor skills and problem-solving abilities. It’s a fantastic way to turn your living room into a little adventure land.
2. Bubble Chase
Who doesn’t love bubbles? Blowing bubbles and encouraging your little one to chase and pop them is a fun activity and excellent for improving hand-eye coordination and walking stability as they move over different surfaces.
3. Dance Party
Put on some baby-friendly tunes and have a dance party! Dancing is an excellent way for early walkers to practice their moves, improve balance, and explore different ways of moving. It’s also a perfect activity for family bonding time.
4. Nature Walks
Taking your early walker on nature walks in a stroller, or a secure carrier can be very stimulating. Once they're comfortable, let them walk on different terrains like grass, sand, or leaves under close supervision. It's a great way for them to connect with nature and learn about the environment.
5. Ball Games
Simple ball games, like rolling a ball back and forth or trying to kick soft balls, are excellent for coordination and motor skills. When played in groups, these activities can also introduce concepts of cause and effect and teamwork.
6. Art Walks
Tape large pieces of paper to the floor and let your early walker create art with non-toxic, washable paints on their hands and feet. This fun, sensory activity allows them to explore their creative side and leaves you with adorable keepsakes.
7. Interactive Storytime
While this may seem like a calm activity, interactive storytime can be very engaging for early walkers. Choose books with flaps to lift or textures to touch and read in an animated voice. Encourage your child to walk over and turn the pages, which helps develop fine motor skills.
8. Water Play
Set up a small, shallow water table or a large basin with water for supervised play. Adding cups, spoons, and waterproof toys can turn this into a delightful sensory activity that early walkers will love, especially on warmer days.
9. Hide and Seek
Playing a simple game of hide and seek with your early walker can be incredibly entertaining. Hide behind furniture and encourage your little one to come and find you. It’s a great way to get them moving and teach them about object permanence.
10. Musical March
Playing musical instruments like drums, shakers, or tambourines while walking around the house can be a blast for early walkers. They get to explore sounds and rhythms while practicing their walking skills.
Early walking is a phase full of growth and development, and engaging in these fun activities can support your little one in exploring their abilities and the world around them. Always ensure safety in all activities, and most importantly, have fun together!