Toys and Activities for One Year Olds

By the time your baby turns one year old he/she will be more active than ever. It is a great idea to find as many activities and games as possible to keep them preoccupied. Their brains are developing and they need as many stimulating learning experiences as they can take in. There are many ways to do this without having to spend too much money.

First of all, it is important to choose age appropriate toys for your child. Avoid toys that are made up of small pieces that can cause a choking hazard since toddler's this age love to put everything they find into their mouths. Avoid any toys with rough edges that break easily and are made of paper that can be torn and placed in the mouth.

Another factor that should be considered is the age appropriateness of the game or activity. Is it too difficult for a one year old? Some difficulty is good for a toddler. However, activities that are too complex will make a baby upset and will take the joy out of playing. Many toys usually label what stage of development the game is for so look at the labels.

The toy or activity should be exciting and eye catching. Many toys come with several activities in one and have bright colors to draw a toddler's attention and curiosity. If a toy does not appeal to the child's inquisitiveness they will lose interest quickly.

Some toys and activities that may interest your toddler and are inexpensive are:

1. Picture books made out of cardboard or plastic material.

2. Sturdy wooden toys such as stacking blocks with letters and numbers or puzzles.

3. Toys that make musical sounds such as toy pianos, shakers, rattles and drums.

4. Balls of various sizes and colors

5. Non-toxic crayons and paper (with close supervision) so they can doodle.

6. Free internet games for one year olds.

7. Flash cards with an object on one side and the word to identify it on the other side

8. One year olds love to run around so take them outside to run on the lawn in your yard or at the park.

9. At this age children love to place materials and objects in containers. When I do laundry my one year old loves to pull the clothing out of the laundry basket and then put them right back in. It helps him to feel a sense of independence and enjoyment.

The activities and games for a one year old are endless. As long as the object or activity stimulates their intellect, is safe and enjoyable it is worth trying with your toddler.

Sources

http://infanttoddlerplay.suite101.com/article.cfm/activities_for_your_oneyear_old