(StatePoint) A child’s education begins the moment he or she is born. Little ones have a lot to learn, but you can help them to reach all their important milestones by making learning fun.
To encourage and enhance learning for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, consider the following:
Change Scenes
A change of scenery can trigger critical thinking skills. So, keep your little ones active, engaged and occupied by taking them places that will inspire curiosity, such as the library, children’s museums, musical performances, the park, zoo and more. Take the time to point out letters, shapes, animals and whatever else you see, to help build vocabulary.
Be Prepared
Take advantage of downtime when you are moving from place to place. Make sure your car and day bag are packed with fun and educational distractions for kids: crayons, construction paper and books, as well as toys designed specifically for on-the-go learning, such as LeapFrog’s Go-with-Me ABC Backpack. Giving kids a fun way to explore letters, spelling, phonics, writing, animals and art skills, it is carried just like a backpack and includes games and music, a drawing board and interactive LCD screen.
Squeeze in Learning
Whether it’s bath time or dinnertime, there are always opportunities for fun and learning at home. During these daily activities, tell stories and jokes, sing songs and practice counting. Plus, there are plenty of waterproof books and toys that can withstand bathtub and highchair playtime.
Transition Wisely
Select versatile learning toys that will transition as your child learns, grows and reaches milestones. For example, the Safari Learning Station is a fun activity center that transforms from the sitting stage to the crawling stage to standing, allowing children to explore first words, numbers, shapes, colors, animals and music. Likewise, Scout’s Get Up & Go Walker transforms from a baby gym to a detachable floor play panel to a walker. With three play modes for listening to music, playing learning games and getting active, it’s a great way to introduce colors, shapes, letters and numbers and encourages children to reach out, sit up and stand.
For more early education ideas, visit leapfrog.com/learningtoys.
There’s an entire world kids will want to explore when you make learning fun.
*****
