Toddler Play Activities for Home or Co-op

A year ago, my daughter Molly and I participated in an organized playgroup once a week with other children that were around her age.

I wanted to share the schedule that they used because I thought that it was a great program that could easily be translated into home activities, a co-op class/activity, or perhaps for an organized playgroup at home.

9:30 – 10:00 – Fine Motor Activities

The activities during this time work on hand-eye coordination, as well as concentration. Examples of activities during this time included: playdough, painting (on an easel), rice/beans/water/sand table, blocks, puzzles, make believe play (with things like Fisher Price playsets).

10:00 – 10:10 – Clean Up

Parents were expected to pitch in by encouraging their child to clean up, as well as to clean up the area themselves as well. While kids should work on cleaning up their messes, parental assistance helped to make the transition go more smoothly.

10:10 – 10:20 – Circle Time

This time included a book, as well as music and movement activities (such as songs, finger plays, and marching activities)

10:20 – 10:30 – Snack Time

Parents took turns signing up to bring a snack. Snack time was always preceeded with a prayer.

10:30 – 10:55 – Gross Motor Activities

Activities typical of this time period included: ride on vehicles, basketball hoop with balls, dramatic play area with baby dolls and kitchen set, and small slides. When weather permitted, we also went onto the church preschool playground a few times.

10:55 – 11:00 – Clean Up

What are some of your favorite activities for toddlers and preschoolers? What do younger siblings do during school time at your house?

When not trying to get Playdoh out of the carpet, Angie can be found writing at Many Little Blessings.