Actvities for Toddlers and Older Kids
Many parents of toddlers have multiple children, including older kids that may not enjoy some of the toddler activities. Fortunately, there are a number of activities that toddlers and older children can enjoy together. Look for these to promote a positive family environment and a healthy sibling bond.
Books
A love of stories should be fostered in all children, regardless of age. Even though toddlers and older children might enjoy different books, there are still ways that this all-important activity can be shared. First, if the older children can read, then perhaps they can read to the toddlers. This can serve a dual purpose by letting the older children practice their reading skills and allowing the younger children to hear a story. There are also some books that appeal to a broader range of children, such as Dr. Suess, and these can be read to both.
Physical activities
There are a number of physical games that toddlers can enjoy with older children. For instance, they can play soccer with each other or catch with a ball. They can shoot hoops together with a child’s basketball hoop. Even if it is not a competitive game, they can still have fun playing together.
Games
There are many board games that both toddlers and younger children enjoy. You can play on a team with your toddler if the game is too complicated for him or her to play alone. Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders appeal to children of different ages. Some games even give different instructions for kids of different ages, so depending on the game, you might be able to make it harder for the older ones to “level the playing field.” The children can also play games like charades.
Puppet shows
Kids of all different ages love puppet shows. The older children may enjoy putting on a show for the younger one or they can do it together. The older children can put on other types of shows, such as a dancing show or a magic show from a kit.
Cooking
Even toddlers can help with cooking, as can older children. Simply give them age-appropriate activities. A toddler might be able to stir some food (with supervision). The older child might enjoy “teaching” the younger child how to do it.
Toddlers and older children can enjoy each other in many different activities, including the ever-popular pretend play. The more positive interaction you foster between your children, the more likely they will be to form happy and long-lasting relationships with each other.