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Moving and learning with your toddler

28 October 2019

From one year old, toddlers are learning to walk, kick and climb stairs – so stimulating activities for them may seem quite mundane to us. 

Real-life activities are best

Johannesburg paediatrician, Dr Kim Barnard, believes simple real-life activities are best to keep toddlers active and engaged. “Take them into the garden, let them walk and hop on the grass, and run and jump as these activities help them to master motor skills and keep them neuro-developmentally on track. Parents often ask which devices or games they can buy their child, but the best they can do is to go into the garden and pick up sticks and leaves with their toddler, roll in the grass and play silly games like walking like a penguin or hopping like a frog. All these activities strengthen their muscles.”

The pros and cons of walking rings and playpens

Dr Barnard says walking rings and bouncers don’t engage children’s core muscles as there isn’t much weight on their legs, so she suggests these devices be used for limited periods only – and always with full adult supervision, as walking rings easily topple over. However, she says play pens are useful for toddlers who are mobile and eager to explore but don’t yet understand the dangers of things. “These must be set up according to instructions though, and makeshift enclosures should not be used. Playpens are specifically designed so that toddlers can’t injure themselves, but are only safe if they are assembled according to instruction.

How to choose the best toys for your toddler

Parents can then give their toddler safe, age-appropriate toys to play with.” So give your toddler toys that they can’t swallow or poke their eyes with, and be sure that battery compartments of toys are secure so batteries can’t be accessed. Dr Barnard adds that spring-loaded push toys are excellent for core development at about 18 months, while toys with different textures and colours stimulate attention in toddlers.

Safety above everything else

“If you buy a walker, bouncer or playpen for your child, buying the most expensive brand is not important,” says Dr Barnard, “rather focus on the correct assembly and placement of the device so your child is safe. And remember that everything in a toddler’s environment is a potential toy, learning device and hazard, so always be present, attentive and never turn your back on a toddler. If you use walkers or bouncers, be sure to engage with your child at the same time – and always have your full attention on them.”

Importantly, to keep your toddler safe, Dr Barnard suggests “going down to toddler level, to see what dangers may exist from their perspective of the world.” Then your child can stay safe as they explore the world with enthusiasm.

Make sure your little one stays safe on your travels - and view our range of car seats here.

IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com