1. Reading Books Together
Most of us don't think of reading books as an indoor activity, but more of a nightly bed time ritual. Most of us also know getting a toddler to sit for a long period of time to listen to a book is no easy task. However a short story and some acting might do the trick. Matching your voice to different characters in the story and getting your child more involved in the story will keep them entertained longer. Reading together encourages verbal development and allows a child to learn more words. Book can also help introduce cognitive concepts like shapes, colors, numbers, and letters to a toddler. According to the Kids Health website, children who are read to at a young age will have an easier time learning to read independently.
2. Building Blocks
Wooden blocks are one of the most under rated toys on the market. However, they are extremely beneficial to a child's cognitive development! Stacking blocks helps to develop problem-solving skills, balance concepts. They also start to learn the beginning of math skills as they experiment with blocks of different shapes, sizes, and weights. So the next rainy day be sure to dig out the wooden blocks and build away!
3. Sink or Bathtub Toys
Roll up your sleeves and fill up the sink or bathtub and let the water fun begin! Grab some items from around the kitchen and the toy box and help your child see what they can do in the water. Tactical activities that allow toddlers to use their sense of touch are actually the best way for a toddler to learn. According to Diane Sonntag on the Baby Zone website, toddlers who use a water table or bathtub to scoop, pour and see how different objects respond to being dunked are learning beginning math and science skills.
There's no need to panic at the thought of occupying your child inside on the next rain day! With these activities you are now prepared for an exciting day of inside fun. Check out some more cognitive building activities here.
