Hobbies And Interests
Guess the Object
All you need for this game is an empty canister or sack and a few small objects. With her eyes covered or blindfolded, your toddler reaches into the container and feels the mystery item with one or both hands. Let her handle the object for as long as she wants and ask her to guess the item when she's ready. Objects with clearly different shapes and textures work best, at least in the beginning. Possible mystery items could include a stuffed animal, a spoon, a small car and a ball. Place another item in the bag and continue playing.
I Spy
"I Spy" is a classic guessing game that that lets you adjust the answer-item based on your toddler's development. Once you've chosen your object, give your toddler three identifying clues before she begins guessing. Select an object of primary or secondary color, such as red or green, not magenta or turquoise. Additionally, make sure the item is easily visible from your child's eye-level. Play "I Spy" anywhere from the waiting room at the doctor's office to the airport boarding lounge.
Guess My Feeling
"Guess My Feeling" requires your toddler to use her critical thinking skills and engages her understanding of social cues. In this game, your toddler guesses the emotion based on your facial expressions. You can also draw the faces, but using a human face provides the most realistic model. For older toddlers, skip the facial expressions and instead offer key words or descriptive actions that someone experiencing this feeling does. For example, if the feeling is happy, say, "When I have this feeling, I smile and laugh." If the feeling is sad, say, "When I feel this way, I cry and frown."
Mystery Shape
Your toddler will use her tactile sensations and memory while playing "Mystery Shape." As your child sits in front of you, trace the outline of a shape on her back using your finger, such as a triangle or square. Give the shape continuity by drawing the lines without lifting your finger. After you finish drawing, ask her if she knows the answer or needs you to draw it again. Play the same game with older toddlers by drawing letters instead of shapes.