The Perfect Activity for Siblings: The “Mystery Craft”
The idea for the Mystery Craft started in one of my small speech therapy groups when I ended up having to pair two students together that were pretty different in their abilities. (For any speech therapists wondering, one was targeting listening comprehension and the other social/pragmatic skills.) These two boys loved the Mystery Craft and asked for it all the time! It got me thinking that it would also be perfect for siblings! Okay – here’s how to do it: Pick a Craft You’ll want to pick a craft that is easy enough for the younger sibling and has the steps either written out or in picture form…
Easter Basket Filler Ideas for Toddlers that Promote Learning!
Easter is already right around the corner. I love any excuse to dress up my daughter in a frilly dress and see her face light up when she comes downstairs to a fun-filled Easter basket! But what I don’t love is a sugar cash at 8 a.m. on Easter morning – right before we have to get dressed up and go to visit relatives! So that got me thinking . . . What are some good non-food Easter basket filler ideas for toddlers? This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Easter Basket…
10 Puzzle Activities for Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Babies that Promote Learning
One of best toys for toddler language development is the PUZZLE! Puzzles are inexpensive, don’t take up too much space, and are so versatile.In this article, I’ll cover how to use puzzles with babies, toddlers and preschoolers - as well as with older, special needs children (just look for the communication-level that matches your child’s ability).
50+ Sensory Bin Fillers – Plus a Free, Printable List
Every time I put together a new sensory bin for my daughter, she is so excited! (And so am I because sensory bins are perfect for both interactive play as well as independent play!) Here are a list of sensory bin fillers (for the “base” of your sensory bin) you can use for sensory play. Just add seasonal items or items that target learning goals and you are all set!
Get Baby to Talk with These No-Prep, 5-Minute Activities!
Whether you are hoping for that precious first word from your baby or you are wondering how to encourage your late talker, the following ideas are designed to be high-interest, 5-minute activities to sprinkle throughout your week!
Using Ice Cube Activities for Early Language Learning
I love taking a sensory play idea, like an ice sensory bin, and adding other early learning ideas to the activity. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I’m always looking for ways to add a language development angle to any activity and this one didn’t disappoint! Here's what we used to set up this simple activity:
How to Raise a Reader – 8 Tips for Reading with Infants and Toddlers
My mom vowed that she would do everything she could to make reading easier for me than it was for her, and so she read to me every day from infancy. And it worked! I was a complete bookworm all through school. BUT what if you have a resistant reader (aka resistant listener) from the start? Maybe you are trying to read to your infant or toddler but they are just not interested. Don’t worry – I’ll talk about that too!
Valentine’s Day Activities for Toddlers
I wanted to let my little Valentine join in the festivities, but finding Valentine’s Day activities for toddlers isn’t so easy! Of course she always loves . . .
How to Entertain a 2 Year Old on a Plane + Tips for Flying with a Toddler
Read on for the best activities we used to keep our sanity with two connecting flights and a toddler, including tips on which sippy cup to NOT bring on board! I ended up picking up one inexpensive toy/activity on a whim and it was the hit of the trip!
Toddler Visual Schedule with Movable Icons (Free Printable!)
This post is inspired by the newfound “independence” of my toddler. (A.K.A saying, “No No No!” about everything). Once we get back home from our Christmas holiday traveling, I've decided to try using a toddler visual schedule. (It can be used for older kids too!) Want to try using a schedule along with us? Download a free visual schedule below with interchangeable icons. Let’s try this out together!