# data[].attributes.body
You can introduce different textures to infants to explore.  Use large swatches of different types of fabric to make texture mats, similar to carpet mats. Try a variety of fabrics, like corduroy, denim, velvet, wool, and fleece, and use these for tummy time or other floor games. Alternatively, you might use smaller scraps of fabric to make bean bags for older infants to toss in gross-motor activity games.

-Tove Fox

# data[].attributes.body
This is a fun math activity and sensory bin all in one! Kids love playing with small objects. This is a great way for kids to start counting, number recognizing, sorting and so much more. But for this activity, you will have kids find dominoes and place the dominoes to the correct number. They have to count the dots on the dominoes and then recognize that number on the page with numbers. Set up is fairly easy. First, you need to start out with a large sensory bin and put in small objects like legos, end caps and rainbow rice. Then, on a piece of paper write out numbers 1 to 8 in separate boxes. For older kids you could also go up to ten. Next, separate out the dominoes that add up to 8 and then hide them in the bin for your little one to find. Once the kid finds a domino have them add up the dots and then place it on the correct number.

DRDP Measures addressed:
ATL-REG 4,5
COG 3,4
PD-HLTH 4

# data[].attributes.body
https://celebratingwithkids.com/dinosaur-ice-dig-excavation/
1) Freeze a set of small plastic dinosaurs or insects in plastic containers in the freezer.
2) Pop the frozen block out of it's container and place on a tray. Give the students eye protection and small hammers, forks, spoons and knives to hammer and dig into the ice and break it's contents free.
3) As students begin to pull out the small dinosaurs ask, "What do you notice is different about each dinosaur? Are they different colors? Are their bodies the same? How are they different?"
4) Encourage the students to sort out the dinosaurs by color and or size and talk about what they see with each other if developmentally appropriate for their age. 5 year olds may be more ready to discuss than 3 year olds.
6) This activity can be extended with freezing colored liquid, putting herbs or edible fruit in frozen ice, etc.
ATL-REG 6,7 LLD 1,2,3,4 ELD 1,2 Cognition,
Including Math and Science 2,3,10 PD-HLTH 1,4

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Do your kids love dinosaurs? Cool down on a hot day with this simple dinosaur ice dig excavation sensory activity!
Luke has been really into dinosaurs lately. We got a dinosaur kit from the library and it really inspired him to learn some of the different dino types.

It was hot one day and we were kind of bored of sorting the dinosaurs by color and type, so I decided to freeze them up in some ice.

Wow - I could have never predicted how popular this would be! Even Rory - just 10 months old - really loved banging on it and pulling at the lil dinosaurs frozen in ice.

Dinosaur excavation sensory play is a fun way for kids to work on their fine motor skills, by using tools like spoons and forks to stab at the ice.

The frozen dinosaur ice excavation activity is also a chance to talk about the water cycle - and how ice melts into more water.

Kids love ice play? Check out my iceberg sensory bin!

Here's everything you need to know about dinosaur sensory play!

Dinosaur ice dig for kids

What you need:

What you do:

Fill a tupperware with water. Add plastic dinosaurs. Freeze.

One fully frozen and ready to play, pull out of the freezer. Place upside down on a tray or baking sheet. It should pop out with a little bang.

Present to your kids with a bowl of water - you can use warm water for younger kids, I prefer room temperature since it lasts longer. Use droppers, spoons, or ladles to put water on the ice.

You can also place it in a sensory bin if you prefer.

They will have a blast trying to melt the block of ice with water! Melting ice is refreshing on a hot day and it's just plain fun to play with ice.

Use forks, knives, or sticks to dig into the ice.

Don't want a big ice cube? For another dinosaur ice activity, you can freeze each dino inside a balloon of water! This gives you frozen dino eggs to play with.

Don't use water balloons - they are too small - stick to regular balloons just fill the balloons with water until they are about 6 inches across.

Dig up and discover the dinos inside!

For older kids, you can work on:

Counting

Naming colors

Naming the types of dinosaurs

Talking about fossils and how paleontologists dig up fossils

Any questions about this ice dinosaur freeze ice play for preschoolers?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dinosaur Ice Dig Excavation activity for preschoolers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Do your kids love dinosaurs? Cool down on a hot day with this simple dinosaur ice dig excavation sensory activity!

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Cardboard Tube - Thread w/Straws or Pipe Cleaners

# data[].attributes.body
Using recycled items, students can develop their fine motor skills and cognitive skills. Adults can cut cardboard tubes into 2-3 inches and allow children to punch holes using a hole puncher. Then adults can present straws and/or pipe cleaners for children to thread through the holes in the cardboard tube through one side and out the opposite side.

DRDP Measures addressed:
ATL-REG 1, 3, 4, 6, 7
SED 4,5
LLD 1, 2, 3
ELD 1
COG 1, 8, 9
PD-HLTH 1, 4
HSS 5

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Breathing exercises as a guide to start a yoga practice in the classroom.  

# data[].attributes.headline
Guiding the Kindergartener with Yoga (Mien Lu)

# data[].attributes.subject
Guiding the Kindergartener with Yoga (Mien Lu)

# data[].attributes.body
Practice daily breathing exercises in the classroom.  Good ones to start with are those with students seated:
-Sit with legs crossed.  One hand on the chest and the other on the tummy.  Inhale and enlarge the chest.  Hold your breath and exhale while enlarging your tummy.  It is good to point out to the student what the air is doing to their chest and tummy.
-Sit on your heel.  Hands down on both sides of the body.  Inhale as you lift both hands up above your head touching the palms gently.  Hold your breath and exhale as you slowly drop your hands to the side.
-Stand in mountain pose and lift your hands to breath.
Any breathing exercise you do while standing up is a good entry point to a small yoga practice.
ATL-REG 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
SED 1, 2

# data[].attributes.body
It’s just food coloring and rice, mixed together, and left to dry. In just minutes, you can create a sensory experience for the child that can be reused for years to come.
We dump the rice into a big storage container. Then we add in all the fun stuff: funnels, scoops, jars.
we do not need to qualify or justify an activity for children (all play is learning) it’s still fun to think about everything kids are learning with just colorful rice.

Math skills: understanding capacity and volume

Science exploration: learning more about small particles and solids

Cause and effect: discovering how actions are related

Imaginary play: utilizing high level thinking to create dramatic ideas

Life skills: growing skills kids will use throughout life (pouring, scooping, spooning)

ATL-REG 1,2
COG 5,6,7
PD-HLTH 1 ,2,3,4
HSS 2
VPA 1

# data[].attributes.body
This is a fun balloon activity. Each child must keep their own balloon in the air by hitting it upwards, without letting it drop to the ground. If playing with a group of children, you can make it a game by having all students begin tossing the balloon up at the same time. If anyone drops their balloon, they sit down. Play until you have a winner, which would be the last child standing and still hitting their balloon. This can also be played with a small bat or racket. Use the bat to hit the balloon into the air and keep it from falling.

ATL-REG 1, 7
ELD 2
COG 1, 8, 9, 11
PD-HLTH 1, 2, 9
HSS 1, 2, 4

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 1: Anab Hossain, Claribel Martinez, Torri Bryant, and Janet Bravo

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 1: Anab Hossain, Claribel Martinez, Torri Bryant, and Janet Bravo

# data[].attributes.body
For this pom pom sorting activity, you can give either one child or a small group of children different colored bowls, a group of different colored poms poms that match the bowl colors, and a clothespin. Children use the clothespin to pick up the pom poms and place them into the bowl that matches the correct color. This activity can be extended by having the child state what color the pom pom is. You can ask the child why a pom would belong in a certain bowl and why it doesn't belong in another bowl. You could also extend the activity by having the children count how many pom poms go in each bowl and compare the number to different colors. Through this activity, children are building both their cognitive skills of sorting and classifying and their fine motor skills.
DRDP
COG 1, 2, 6, 9
PD-HLTH 1, 2, 3, 4
LLD - 1, 2, 3, 4
ELD - 1, 4

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A fine motor skills activity with a math twist: you gotta try this pom pom sorting!

Pom pom balls are such a versatile toddler activity supply. We would be lost without our beloved bag of pom poms. Seriously, pom poms come out almost weekly around here and they still haven't gotten old. In this activity, toddlers practice two important life skills!

This simple activity is actually a lot of bang for your buck: it's fine motor skills AND math all rolled into one. Fine motor skills are important for future tasks like pencil grip and buttoning sweaters; sorting is a hugely important math skill that introduces the concept of classifying and organizing data (all that from a simple sorting game? You betcha!).

It doesn't take much to set up pom pom sorting.
(this list contains affiliate links)
Boy, this was an easy one to set up! I grabbed my favorite colored bowls as our "what to sort into" base for this activity. I poured some pom poms into a bowl and added a single clothes pin. I did make sure that I only poured in pom pom balls that I had a colored bowls for (sorry white and red, you don't get to play today). My son took one look at the set up and knew exactly what needed to be done.

The coolest part about this sorting activity was using the clothes pins to capture the pom pom balls and transfer them over. What a challenge and work out for my toddler son! This really exercised his hand muscles and he was working hard. Pinching the clothes pins to open them, capturing a pom pom and moving it to the bowl was a lot of work for a tot. But a good amount of work. Not too easy, but certainly not too hard. This was right in his "wheel house".

If you have a toddler who isn't quite ready for clothes pins yet, consider small tongs or a pair of tweezers. My son used tongs with pom poms for almost a full year before he was able to master opening clothes pins. It takes time and there's no rush! They all get it at their own pace.

In the end, pom pom sorting took my toddler 16 minutes to complete. SIXTEEN minutes of hard at work, concentrating toddler while I made the grocery list and cleaned the kitchen. It was amazing - for both of us! He had so much fun doing this and worked his tail off to move all those pom poms. I was so proud of him. Pom pom sorting was a massive hit!

Need more fine motor skill activities for toddlers? Try a Fine Motor Skills Sensory Bin, Spider Web Fine Motor Activity, and Name Recognition Alphabet Activity.

Will you try pom pom sorting?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pom Pom Sorting: Fine Motor Skills Activity - Busy Toddler

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Pom pom balls are such a versatile toddler activity supply. We would be lost without our beloved bag of pom poms. Seriously, pom poms come out almost weekly around here and they still haven't gotten old. In this activity, toddlers practice two important life skills!

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 2: Juleana Shaw, Victoria Pallotta, Jeanne Vidal-Smith

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 2: Juleana Shaw, Victoria Pallotta, Jeanne Vidal-Smith

# data[].attributes.body
This is a great way to include hands-on math learning! This activity is good for counting practice and number recognition. Students will count the stickers on the premade sheets and then match the numbers to them. They can use a sticky note so that the chart can be used over and over again. Students can also peel stickers and count them out to include fine motor development.
COG: 2, 3, 4.
PD-HLTH: 4,

# data[].attributes.headline
Counting Beads on Pipe Cleaners Activity - Jocelyne Lemus

# data[].attributes.subject
Counting Beads on Pipe Cleaners Activity - Jocelyne Lemus

# data[].attributes.body
This activity is a quick set-up for the young learners to develop their fine motor skills because it only requires two things: pipe cleaners & beads. Each pipe cleaner will have a number attached to it and the child will insert the amount of beads into it - practicing numerical skills and counting strategies.
COG: 2, 3
ELD: 4
PD-HLTH: 4

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Counting beads on pipe cleaners - Laughing Kids Learn

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Using colourful pipe cleaners and beads you can set up a fun counting maths activity for kids. This is also really great for fine motor development and when it's complete you can simply turn it into a busy bag that can be done at another time.

# data[].attributes.headline
Fishing for Numbers: Jovana, Maricela, Julie

# data[].attributes.subject
Fishing for Numbers: Jovana, Maricela, Julie

# data[].attributes.body
Activity description: Teacher: "I'm hungry for a number (4)fish." Teacher shows a card with dots matching the number they call out. Kids use the fishing rod to catch the correct number fish. What are they learning in this activity?  They are learning muscle control as they hold and guide the fishing rods and try to match the magnet on the end to a number or fish.  Picking up the items with their fingers requires fine motor control.  They are learning number recognition.
DRDP Skills: PD-HLTH: 1,2,3&9 Cognition; Math&Science:Number Sense 3

# data[].attributes.body
Group 5: Jamie Choi, Kathy Camp, Janelle Olais, & Stephanie Chan

Sensory paths are ideal as they address both gross motor and math skills but are a fun activity that maintain children's interest. They can be customized to fit your childrens' physical and cognitive needs. Sensory paths can address skills such as balance, jumping, leaping, walking in a straight line, zig zag line, counting, depth perception, geometry (shapes), etc.

DRDP Skills: ATL-REG: 1,3,4,5,6,7 SED: 5 LLD: 1,7, ELD: 4 COGN-MTH-SCI: 1,2,3,6,7,9,11 PD-HLTH: 1,2,3,9

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Sitting still is a challenge for lots of kids (and adults!). Schools and teachers are starting to realize that children are actually more focused on learning when they're given a chance to wriggle, fidget, and move around. That's why classroom yoga breaks, flexible seating, and fidget gadgets have become popular. A sensory path is another cool option for helping kids re-focus their energy throughout the day. Find out how they work and what you need to know to create your own.

What is a sensory path?

A sensory path is a series of guided movements for kids to follow, shown by markings on the ground or walls. As students follow the path and complete the movements, they work off excess energy and develop their gross motor skills. The various movements on a path are often designed to engage different parts of the body and brain, from frog hops to spins and wall pushes. You'll find sensory paths in school hallways or on playgrounds, from pre-K through middle schools.

Teachers often use sensory paths as their kids walk through a hallway between activities. (Yes, you really can train a group of kids to do this quietly!) These paths can be especially effective for students who experience frustration, anger, or other sensory overloads during a learning activity. Sending them out to the hall to work off some of those emotions can help them re-focus when they return to their desk.

Sensory path creation tips and inspiration

Good sensory paths have a wide variety of physical elements for kids to try and often include some learning concepts like counting or the alphabet. They're colorful and engaging and tough enough to stand up to lots of jumping feet, day after day. Inside, try vinyl decals or even duct tape. For an outdoor movement maze, use paint to create paths on the playground or sidewalk. Here are some terrific ideas and inspiration to get you started.

Purchase sensory path decals

Schools can purchase specially-designed sensory path decals in a variety of themes. These are usually meant to be used indoors, though some may stand up to outdoor conditions. We like many of the options available from Moving Minds because they allow you to mix and match sensory path elements to meet your needs.

We sent second grade teacher Kelsey Muellner of Denver, Colorado, the SketchSpot Dry Erase Spots, ClassStix Directional Arrows, and Rainbow ClasStix, and here's what she had to say:

"The kids really enjoyed having the sensory path as an option to help them regain their ability to focus, help them take a brain break when they were feeling frustrated, and to help them when they needed some movement. It has been helpful, especially during COVID, to have a place to be able to move and get some energy out. The dry erase spots make it easy to add a learning element for the day, such as to use a vocabulary word in a sentence."

Take it outside

Try sensory paths on the playground, especially if you don't have the funds for playground equipment. Kids can race, challenge each other, or play solo. Check out some of the inspiration we found on Instagram!

Consider adding yoga poses and other calming aspects to your path. Mindful movement can be just as valuable as running or hopping. See more details of this path at the link.

Source: @edumarking

That oversized keyboard is genius! Kids will have fun learning the letters on the keyboard and practicing spelling words while they jump.

Source: @thesimplifiedclassroom

Don't forget to incorporate walls into your path. Students can push off or leap high to slap a target.

Source: @mindfulmurals

Make a portable path

This is so clever! Turn an old gym mat into a portable path. Fold it up when you want it out of the way, or move it to a different classroom or corridor.

Source: @otapkids

Go simple with duct tape

It doesn't take expensive decals or permanent paint to create an engaging sensory path. Tape lines with instructions serve the same purpose and cost so much less.

Source: @whole.brain.connections

Use what you've got

Turn obstructions into challenges! Wind around poles, leap over drains, and climb over obstacles.

Source: @mindfulmurals

Sketch a sidewalk chalk sensory path

Want to give it a try without committing? Draw a sensory path using sidewalk chalk and see which elements are a hit and which ones need some work. See a video of this whole sensory walk at the link.

Source: @sjt.25

End with a superhero pose

Finish up with a place for kids to pose in triumph. Everyone wants to feel like a superhero!

Source: @lauraavrildove

Thanks to our friends at Moving Minds for sponsoring this post. Be sure to check out the huge selection of classroom tools they have to keep kids active and learning! And show us your own sensory paths. We'd love to see them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
All posts by Jill Staake, B.S., Secondary ELA Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Everything You Need to Know About Setting Up A School Sensory Path

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Add a sensory path to your playground or hallway to give kids a place to take a brain break and work out the wiggles.

# data[].attributes.body
The student will sort the LEGO bricks based on number of dots on each LEGO, shape, or color. Possibly do a round for each classification. Then each bag will be emptied out and they will learn the concept of more or less. DRDP cognition including math and science: 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9.

# data[].attributes.body
Get a set of spiky massage balls.  It is usually sold in sets of 6 on Amazon.
Progression of exploration:
1 - Allow the toddler to toss balls randomly to practice locomotor skills and gross motor skills.
2 - Toss the ball to toddlers and encourage them to toss it back at you.  Toddlers tend to fetch the ball they cannot catch.
3 - Designate a box or compartment to have them toss the ball into the box.  The aim is usually always terrible so a celebratory cheer is needed when the toddler makes it to the target.
4 - Use the massage ball to massage the bottom of your foot.  Toddlers will imitate and their balance is questionable.
DRDP measures addressed: ATL-REG 1, 3&4; SED 3, 4&5; LLD 1&2; COG 8&9; PD-HLTH 1, 2&3.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Picture courtesy of Yummy Toddler Food website - https://www.yummytoddlerfood.com

# data[].attributes.body
Layout out matchstick size pieces of fruit in a roll or separately on a serving tray.  Pieces should be large enough for babies to grab with their hands.  Allow them to practice gross and fine motor skills by reaching for the item of choice and taste test with their mouth.  Additionally, name out loud the item the baby selected to help promote language development.
*Good food categories to start are fruits, vegetables, breakfast cereal, and cheese-these stinky things are a hoot to try!*
DRDP measures addressed: ATL-REG 4; SED 4; LLD 1; COG 1, 2, 8, & 9; PD-HLTH 3, 4, & 7.

# data[].attributes.headline
Toddler Observation Activity: "Trap, Cut & Rescue!" (Victoria Pallotta)

# data[].attributes.subject
Toddler Observation Activity: "Trap, Cut & Rescue!" (Victoria Pallotta)

# data[].attributes.body
Want to help your toddler to pretend to be a hero while also working on fine-motor skills? If so, consider trying the "Trap, Cut & Rescue" sensorimotor activity! Your toddler can engage in imaginary play as they "rescue" trapped bears in their dens! First, you'll need to place counting bear manipulatives into each of the round, cup molds of a muffin tin. Next, you'll want to trap the counting bears in the pan by overlapping painter's tape (horizontal and vertical) over each of the cup molds. Then you can place a pair of safety scissors and an empty bowl next to the muffin tin. Watch as your toddler attempts to "rescue" the teddy bears using their hands and/or the provided scissors. Also watch to see if your toddler transfers the teddy bears to the empty bowl or sorts them outside of the tin. When your toddler is ready you can have him/her transfer the counting bears using other hand-held tools like tongs or a spoon. The possibilities and variations of this activity are endless! DRDP measures addressed: ATL-REG 1, 4; SED 5; LLD 1-2; COG 1-3, 8-9; PD HLTH 1, 3-5.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Feb 17, 2021 - Discover (and save!) your own Pins on Pinterest.

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 2: Lesley Feikart, Kathy Kamp,Maricela Monarrez, Meng Jin and Jamie Choi

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 2: Lesley Feikart, Kathy Kamp,Maricela Monarrez, Meng Jin and Jamie Choi

# data[].attributes.body
Gently tie a ribbon of jingle bells around your infant's ankles.  Baby will kick and move his/her feet and discover that when the feet move, there is a sound that is heard.  Baby will be looking for source of sound and may be able to visually as well as auditorily  identify that it is coming from the little feet movements.
ATL-REG 1,2 &4, SED 3 (If adult interaction), COG 8, 9, PD-HLTH 1 & 3.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
​ Activity: ​

Jinglebell Feet
Lesson plan developed by Ms. Erika Geelhoed, BA Ed
​
Age Group:
​ Young Infants
* Lesson plan objective and assessment can be adapted to use this activity with mobile infants or toddlers.
​
Objectives:
​ Children will:

explore music and sound.

explore cause and effect relationships.

CDA Competency Standard:

II.7.2a​ ​
Activities and materials encourage children to dance, move, and develop their musical abilities
a) Music and dance/movement materials and activities are available for children daily

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Christmas Lesson Plan for Winter Curriculum, Infant Sensory Exploration, Christmas

# data[].attributes.body
Fill a large bowl with sand or dirt and hide a bunch of toy dinosaurs (or any other animal your kiddo may be into).  Allow your child to dig for the animals with their hands or use kitchen tongs.  Have them place the found animals into a tray and sort them according to color, size, etc.

DRDP:
COG: 1, 2, 3, 8
PD-HLTH: 1, 4
SED: 1, 3
LLD: 1, 3

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Author: Susie

Ready for some sensory fun? Make this hidden dinosaurs activity because it is quick, easy, and fantastic.

There's no other ulterior motive here: this activity is just plain fun.

RELATED: Looking for more sensory ideas? Check out my whole page dedicated to them!

Why are we hiding dinosaurs?

Because it's awesome, that's why!

Sometimes activities don't need some extra learning agenda or crazy back story. They're just fun for being fun.

And that's why we are playing hidden dinosaurs today.

Of course, there's still learning happening...

Two things to always remember:

Whenever a child is playing, the child is learning.

And second: when a child is doing a sensory activity, the child is BIG TIME learning.

Sensory activities are CRAZY AMAZING for kids and they learn SO MUCH playing with them. Never miss the chance to do a little sensory with your kids.
RELATED: Check out the messiest dino sensory bin we've ever done. Materials:
Busy Toddler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.

Sensory bin (I use a 28-quart storage container)

Rice

Giant bowl

Slotted spoon

Mini dinosaurs (something like this)

We actually get a lot of use out of dinosaurs around here - like this dinosaur bath activity, and dinosaur process art, and archaeology dig. Owning dinosaurs is a great basic activity supply and open-ended toy for our kids.

Here's what's happening:

I started with the big sensory bin and added in a giant bowl.

I mixed the mini dinosaurs and the rice together - making sure to really hide the dinosaurs down deep.

Next to the bowl, I put an ice cube tray as the "keeper" of the dinosaurs once they were scooped out.

My son (2.5) took a slotted spoon on his mission to find the dinosaurs, scoop them out, and transfer them to their ice cube tray.
RELATED: Looking for some muddy dinosaur fun? Try this dinosaur activity!
Even though it was such a simple activity - hidden dinosaurs worked for us.

It also worked for my four-year-old and six-year-old, who wanted to play too.

After my kids had fun playing this sensory bin the way I set it up, next - they played with it how they wanted to.
I LOVE THAT.
I want my activities to be a catalyst for my kids' play.

If I can set up an activity that will help them play even more, then I've done my job.

Watching my kids play and play and play with dinosaurs and rice means I did a great job with this activity.

It's just so easy to set up this activity.

It's just some dinosaurs, rice, and a slotted spoon but it makes for one fantastic activity.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hidden Dinosaurs Sensory Bin Activity - Busy Toddler

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Check out this hidden dinosaurs sensory bin activity from Busy Toddler! A quick and easy way for toddlers to play. A simple activity to make it to nap time.

# data[].attributes.body
Cut out a square of contact paper and tape it on any flat surface with painters tape. You could do this anywhere, but outside is a great place to gather materials. This can be done with a grown up. You can talk to your child about the materials they are gathering and sort them by an attribute (color, size, shape). You can count items with your child and have them name the color. In this article the toddler is gathering items with another child. They are working on collecting items and sticking them together. Which includes agreeing on items and sharing the space. This can address DRDP measures; ATL-REG 1 & 4, SED 3 &4, LLD 3, COG 2 & 3, PD-HLTH 1 & 4.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It's Day 9 0f our 31 Days of Outdoor Activities for Toddlers! Years ago we did a similar Outdoor Sticky Collage with the boys (although it was lying flat on the ground instead of on the garage) and we have done a sticky collage inside with Little Sister...but we decided it was time to make our own Outdoor Sticky Mural using things we found from the yard. My daughter (3 years) and my nephew (18 months) both enjoyed creating our nature mural!

If you are doing this with kiddos who still put things in their mouths, just be sure to keep a watchful eye on them the entire time and don't let them get any tiny pieces of grass or flowers.
Here's what you'll need: Contact Paper
Painter's tape

Scissors

Flowers, grass, and other natural elements

1. Cut the contact paper into a square or rectangle and them place flat on the ground (sticky side out). Add painter's tape along the border and then secure to your garage door (or fence).

2. Let your little one get started

My sweet nephew wasn't so sure about this activity at first...but eventually he came around a bit!

Little hams!

Their nature mural! So pretty!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It's Day 9 0f our 31 Days of Outdoor Activities for Toddlers! Years ago we did a similar Outdoor Sticky Collage with the boys (although it was lying flat on the ground instead of on the garage) and we have done a sticky collage inside with Little Sister...but we decided it was time to make our own Outdoor Sticky Mural using things we found from the yard.

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 5: Joy Kim, Alma Soria, Juleana Shaw

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 5: Joy Kim, Alma Soria, Juleana Shaw

# data[].attributes.body
Loosely tie helium balloons around their ankle with the balloon a couple of feet above. They will kick and jiggle and take huge joy from being in control of their own source of entertainment. ATL-REG 1 & 4, SED 2, LLD 3, COG 1, 8, 9, 11. PD-HLTH 1 & 3.

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 1:  Froot Loop Fine Motor Sensory Play

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 1:  Froot Loop Fine Motor Sensory Play

# data[].attributes.body
Add Froot Loop Cereal and colorful pipe cleaners into a bin and allow toddlers to explore with the materials provided. After some time with free exploration, model with parallel play. LLD #3,4 PD-HLTH #1,2,3,4 COG #2,8,9 ALT-REG #1,3,4 SED #4

# data[].attributes.body
Take a small flashlight and put it in a sealable container like Tupperware or a water bottle. It's really fun to use containers with a little bit of color. You place the lighted container slightly in front of the infant and encourage them to lay on their tummy and hold up their head. They can reach for it and move it around as they are more mobile. DRDP measures addressed: ATL-REG 1, ATL-REG 4, COG 1, COG 9, PD-HLTH 1.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Rainy Day Fun: Baby and Toddler Flashlight Games | CanDo Kiddo

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A fun and simple baby play activity to promote sensory development, improve fine motor skills and make Tummy Time more tolerable!

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaIREK6Hy40

DRDP
COG: 1,3 8, & 9
PD-HLTH: 1-4

Allow your child to play with the kitchen utensils (plastic or wood) and Tupperware. Wear headphones if you need to. They can bang on things, make music, dance, use the Tupperware to "nest items like a puzzle. They can also build with the kitchen items.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Huggies Little Movers TV spot ad. Comfy Fit. We got you baby! Huggies commercial 2023

# data[].attributes.body
Teacher/parent provides a bin or pan full of shaving cream and either paint or food coloring. You can add, glitter, shiny objects, rocks, toys, leaves and flowers. Can provide paint brushes as well, or they can just use their fingers and hands. They can create different designs, mix colors, discover new colors, feel different textures, find and hide objects. They will keep busy exploring different senses through out this activity. DRDP measures we saw addressed: ATL-REG 4, COG 19-20, PD-HLTH 23-25.

# data[].attributes.headline
Group 5: Joy Kim, Alma Soria, Juleana Shaw

# data[].attributes.subject
Group 5: Joy Kim, Alma Soria, Juleana Shaw

# data[].attributes.body
Using ice trays from your freezer, liquid watercolor, and tap water, make ice cubes and then head outside with some big sheets of white paper and watch kids use them like crayons to make their own masterpieces. Holding onto slippery ice cubes is a great way for little fingers to practice their grip strength.
DRDP measures we saw adressed: ATL-REG 1 & 4, LLD 1, 2, 3, COG 1, 8, 9, 11, PD-HLTH 1 & 4.

# data[].attributes.body
Exploring Senses with Cheerios

Teacher/parent provides pan full of cheerios or something similar with utensils and allows for exploration. With this they can explore their taste, fine motor skills, smell, sound, and tactile skills. They can build and make piles with the cheerios. You can either let the infant explore on their own, or you can play and talk to them, and ask questions while they play. DRDP measures we saw addressed: ATL-REG 4, COG 20, PD-HLTH 23-25.

# data[].attributes.body
Provide toddlers with a quart of whipped cream (optional use of food coloring for color mixing) and hide various objects or loose parts within the whipped cream. Give the toddler small utensils such as a spoon, miniature toy rake, paintbrush, or fork to find the items hidden. Whipping cream is a safe option in case the toddler puts his/her fingers in mouth or eyes. Another option for different texture is yogurt. DRDP Measures addressed: ATL-REG 4,7; COG 1,3,8,9; PD-HLTH 4,9; VPA 1

Group 2: Lesley Feikart, Kathy Camp, Maricela Monarrez Gonzalez, Meng Jin, & Jamie Choi

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Here is an easy sensory activity that will brighten any child's day and put a smile on their face...and yours.
This activity takes under a minute to prepare and is loads of fun for toddlers. There may be a bit of clean up afterwards, however doing this outside on a nice summer day makes the clean up effortless.

1) Place Whipped Cream or Shaving Cream in a sensory bin/tray

2) Add in drops of food colouring

3) Watch your toddler mix the colours together using a variety of tools. We used wooden spoons and a little toy rake!

If using shaving cream, the more you mix the foamier it becomes. Just ensure you watch your children so they do not try tasting the shaving cream.

Let your toddlers enjoy and get a little messy with this fun activity.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Whipped Cream Kids Activity | Unstoppable Mama

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here is an easy sensory activity that will brighten any child's day. This whipped cream activity takes under a minute to prepare and is loads of fun for toddlers!

# data[].attributes.body
Gently roll a softball in front of the baby, just out of reach. The movement of the ball can attract their attention and encourage them to lift their head and follow it with their eyes. This activity also stimulates visual tracking and strengthens neck muscles. (PD-HLTH #1, 2, 3 SPA #1, ALT #1, 4, LLD 4, ) Room Group 1: Jovana M., Janelle, Anab H., Jocelyne L., Stephanie Chan.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Good crawling toys promote crawling. The best crawling toys not only serve as encouragement for crawling, but also provide entertainment and opportunities for exploration.

Objects around the house, such as cotton balls or paper cups, may spark fun for some babies and encourage crawling. The best crawling toys, however, are designed to deliver multiple benefits for your baby's development. They are attractive and colorful and catch your baby's eye (encouragement), providing a come-and-get-me factor (entertainment). These toys also tend to have interesting textures, which build cognitive development through sensory stimulation (exploration).

Your baby's temperament and growth stage play a large role in the effectiveness of crawling toys. But don't forget about your preferences as well. You and your little one may become overwhelmed by a toy with flashing lights and music. Luckily, there are plenty of options that avoid overstimulation-and batteries!

Here's a roundup of crawling toys that are appropriate for younger pre-crawling babies up to toddlers with different temperaments and needs in mind. These multifunctional crawling toys stretch your dollar because they can grow with your baby through his developmental stages.

Top 7 Picks

Have you ever imagined a singing, talking animal with flapping ears encouraging your baby to crawl? The VTech Explore and Crawl Elephant models a crawling position, and your baby may want to follow its lead! With the push of a button, the plush elephant's back lights up and invites your little one to crawl after it.

Through crawling after and interacting with the toy, your baby can build motor skills and activate sensory development. Its various textures, patterns, and colors provide opportunities to explore through sensory stimulation. All of the four buttons initiate movement, teaching your baby cause and effect.

Long after your baby's crawling and up to the age of 3, the elephant teaches: colors, numbers, sounds, phrases, and over 45 songs. The elephant crawls a few inches before stopping, encouraging your baby to catch up with it easily. Designed with parents in mind, this toy includes volume control, washable material, and automatic shut-off.

Watch your baby crawl through the Giddy Buggy Crawl-Through tunnel and see its colorful body wiggle and jiggle! Giddy's friendly face flips up and down, which begs for a game of peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek. As your baby navigates the tunnel and figures out how to get through it, he will get to test his problem-solving skills.

Durable and convenient to clean with a quick wipedown, you can fold it flat to store it. When it's time to play again, spring the tunnel back open. Your baby can enjoy crawling through Giddy indoors and outdoors. The steel frame is padded, but direct pressure upon it may cause some discomfort. Still, your baby can learn how to avoid these areas, or you can place a mat inside the tunnel to provide extra padding.

Given the higher price point, this adorable Follow-Bee Crawl Toy proves itself worthy of all the buzz. With its vivid lights, lively buzzing sounds, and lovely music, the bee grows with your baby. It provides your little one with wonder and encouragement in three different stages.

In Stage 1 (pre-crawling), your baby can remove the bee from its cloud to hold and explore the bee. The bee is also a rattle, with moveable beads and a rubberized texture that welcomes teething. Stage 2 (beginner crawling) invites your baby to crawl after it as it moves in a circular path, never moving too far as to discourage your beginner crawler. When the bee is plucked off the cloud, it rewards your baby with a whimsical spin. Stage 3 (advanced crawling) challenges your baby to chase after the bee while it moves in a random pattern.

Designed with a sensor, the bee avoids obstacles on the floor. Keep close supervision, and be mindful of the wheels underneath the cloud. They continue to spin when the cloud is picked up.

These four soft cars in the Melissa & Doug Pull-Back Vehicle Set are simplicity at its best. Requiring no batteries, the set consists of a school bus, family car, fire engine, and police car. Each vehicle includes a friction motor that allows babies and toddlers to pull it back, release, and crawl after it. The vehicles glide across hard floors as well as low pile carpets and flatweave rugs.

Simple doesn't mean unbeneficial. When your baby grasps and pulls back a vehicle along the floor, he builds fine motor skills and coordination. Exploration of the soft and hard textures help promote sensory play. As your baby crawls after the vehicles as they zip across the floor, he develops his gross motor skills.

Additionally, the wheels detach from the washable fabric, making them easy to clean. Another great feature is that the vehicles bounce off walls and continue moving in another direction.

These vehicles can also grow with your child. The set of four calls for social interaction, imaginative play, and a fun game to catch all the vehicles.

The Sassy Developmental Bumpy Ball is a quality crawling toy that's both budget-friendly and effective. More suitable for infants and pre-crawlers, the ball is ingenuity and practicality rolled into one-well, ball.

During tummy time or seated play, your baby's developing vision will appreciate its vivid colors and bold patterns. The various textures and materials will engage your baby's senses. The built-in rattles stimulate your baby's hearing while he learns cause-and-effect. He'll figure out that when he shakes or throws the ball it will make a sound.

Plus, the ball's large bumps are easy to grasp, manipulate, and pass between hands. This type of play can help your little one strengthen his fine motor skills and pincer grasp.

When you place the ball just out of your baby's reach, he can take up the challenge of crawling and claiming it. The gentle rattle sound and a gummy chomp down on a textured bump can serve as pleasing rewards for your baby.

When your family's traveling with an adventurous pre-crawler in tow, the travel-friendly Taf Toys activity book is a must-have. Toys with wheels-and the babies chasing after them-may be tricky to keep track of in less familiar places. Lightweight and easy to pack (while remaining stationary), the activity book can encourage your baby to enjoy tummy time and motivate him to crawl while you're away from home.

The double-sided book features soft, textured pages that make satisfying crinkle sounds. It provides stimulation and entertainment for babies through two developmental stages. In Stage 1, your baby can practice tummy time while being enchanted by the book's highly contrasting colors and his reflection in the baby-safe mirror. The minimalistic colors and illustrations will prevent your baby from becoming overstimulated. In Stage 2, 3D activities include a koala teether that comes in a pocket for your baby to practice his fine motor skills.

You can put the corner guards away and relax your shoulders. The SoftZone Climb and Crawl is a soft play structure where your baby can safely play and explore. The price is on the higher side, but you can view it as an investment: This set offers endless open-ended play possibilities for many years.

This 5-piece set consists of a square, rectangle, circle, half-circle, and wedge. The pieces are made of dense foam, providing comfort and safety while your baby climbs, crawls, and slides. Non-slip surfaces keep the pieces in place and make them easy to grip. Low-maintenance and easy to clean, the faux leather surfaces can handle bleach-free cleaning solutions and soap-and-water solutions.

As your baby navigates this play set, he can develop various skills. The blocks are easy to grasp and lightweight enough for little hands to lift, building gross and fine motor skills. Crawling, climbing, stacking, and carrying also build large muscle groups. Your baby can also improve his balance, body awareness, and coordination.

A little bonus: Tastefully designed in calming earth tone colors, the set brings a sophistication to a play space that many other toys lack.

Final Verdict

Melissa & Doug K's Kids Pull-back Vehicle Set takes first place as the best crawling toy in 2021. It may not have the flashing lights and the musical features that some of the other contenders have. In its simplicity, though, it ticks several boxes for what makes the best crawling toy-that makes it impressive in its own right.

The following elements were considered in the final verdict for the best crawling toy:

It encourages babies to crawl: The vivid colors and friendly faces inside the vehicles invite babies for a game of crawl/chase.

It supports development: Babies build their gross and fine motor skills by crawling after and grasping the vehicles. They can also improve their coordination by manipulating and propelling the vehicles forward. The wooden wheels and soft fabric stimulate the senses.

It can grow with your child: Pre-crawlers are welcome to teethe on the fabric portion of the toy. When they're ready to crawl, they can move the vehicles forward and chase after them. Even after the crawling stage, children can use their imagination, share with their friends, and create a new world with the vehicles.

It's easy to use: Instructions and set-up are not required. It's ready to go whenever your baby is ready to play.

It's compact: The set of four is compact enough to easily bring on trips.

It works outdoors: Kids can play with the vehicles indoors or outdoors.

It's easy to clean: The detachable wheels and fabric are easy to clean with soap and water.

FAQs

What should you look for in crawling toys?

Look for crawling toys that:

Grow with your baby through his developmental stages.

Are non-toxic.

Have parts that your baby can't choke on (including detachable or removable pieces).

Are designed and made by a reputable company.

Fit into your family's lifestyle.

When selecting a toy, the image of your baby's happy face may come to mind. Consider how you feel about the toy in question as well. Are there features that make loud noises? Is set-up going to pose a problem? If you can see yourself becoming annoyed or retreating to another room, choose another toy.

Babies tend to pick up on emotions-including negative ones. When you're engaged and having fun with your baby in a relaxed atmosphere, he is more likely to feel encouraged to crawl. Toys are items that you're bringing into your dwelling space after all. You might as well enjoy them, too.

What are important safety considerations of crawling toys?

When toys are in the mix, there are always safety considerations:

Batteries can be unpredictable.

A piece may break off.

Stuffing can come out.

Your baby might bump his chin if a wheeled toy slips out from underneath his hand.

A toy feature may overstimulate your baby.

Whenever and wherever babies are involved, adult supervision is vital. Keep in mind that crawling toys are designed to get babies moving. When babies become mobile, extra vigilance is essential.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Best Crawling Toys for Babies in 2021 | WonderBaby.org

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Good crawling toys promote crawling. The best crawling toys not only serve as encouragement for crawling, but also provide entertainment and opportunities for exploration. Objects around the house, such as cotton balls or paper cups, may spark fun for some babies and encourage crawling.