As parents, it can be challenging to find ways to nurture our little ones' curiosity while finding moments of joy for ourselves. While soft plays are fun and exciting for our kids, they fall short as an interesting activity for parents.
However, finding an activity that is engaging for both you and your toddler can be difficult. Many places that appeal to adults are not appropriate for toddlers and taking your little one to the same play park every week can be draining.
This is why we have compiled a list of toddler-friendly activities that are engaging for curious little minds and interesting for parents too. So if you are looking for a toddler-friendly day out that is a bit different read on.
Go out gardening
Get your hands dirty with gardening activities perfect for little green thumbs. Planting seeds, watering plants, and watching them grow is a captivating experience. If you have a garden, give them little tasks such as pulling small weeds or watering plants with a mini watering can or a small jug. Even a small pot on a windowsill can become a toddler's personal garden, and it will be rewarding for them to watch little seedlings grow into plants which also nurtures a sense of responsibility and wonder.
Get baking
Toddlers love to take part in activities they see you doing, so if you love baking, your toddlers will too. You don't have to be a star baker to enjoy this activity or even have to make elaborate cakes. Just choose a simple recipe and be prepared for a little (or a big!) mess.
Involve your toddler in measuring out ingredients with measuring cups and big spoons. They will love scooping flour, mixing ingredients, and rolling out dough with a rolling pin. Cupcakes, sugar cookies, and brownies are all great recipes to start with. Although if you don't have a sweet tooth you could make pizza dough or bread. Let your toddlers get stuck in and enjoy watching the concentration on their faces. You could make this a regular activity and get you and your toddler matching aprons, cute cookie cutters, and some kiddie spatulas.
Take a trip to the movies
Many movie theatres have film showings or clubs for toddlers and young children, and although it will include a kid-oriented film, it can still be a fun experience for you both. Getting out and changing your usual scene will be a welcome break for you and your toddler will love feeling like a grown-up watching a film at a cinema.
Most films aimed at toddlers are under an hour and most cinemas will let you take in your own snacks. Check at the cinema if there are booster seats available for your little one and sit back and enjoy watching a movie together while you snuggle up.
Go on a cycling adventure
If you have access to a bicycle, taking your toddler out for a ride can be a rewarding experience for you both. A gentle bike ride with your toddler in tow is a great idea for getting you both outside in the fresh air, and you also have the bonus of fitting in exercise into your day.
Pick a child-safe bike seat that can be fitted to either the front or back of your bike, grab your helmets, and get cycling. Plan out a scenic route, which could be through a park or along a riverside, and enjoy whizzing along while you chatter with your toddler.
Activities with your toddler don't always have to revolve around playgrounds and soft play centres. By exposing your toddler to new places where they can be inspired or engaged beyond child-based activities you will widen their minds and create memorable experiences both you and your child will enjoy.
