1 year, 10 months old
Noticing Tiny Discoveries
Play ideas, a book, a song and a little encouragement for your 22 month old, from Maddie.
By Maddie, early childhood educator and Mum
4 min read · Updated
In this guide
Hey there, amazing parent!
As we embrace month 22, chances are you’re finding your little one’s curiosity leading them into all sorts of new adventures. Their world is expanding so fast, and every leaf, every piece of puzzle brings a fresh opportunity to explore. You’re doing more than enough, even on days where you can't get into the car and all their food ends up on the floor!
This newsletter is here to remind you that little moments filled with wonder and discovery are what matter. You don't need to squeeze in structured activities, those giggles during playtime, rolling or kicking that ball around together and shared moments with a book are plenty, there is so much time ahead for more. But if you’re in the mood for something extra, here are a few ideas to explore together.
Activity 1: Simple Puzzle Play
How: Offer a small puzzle with 3 or 4 pieces. Encourage your little one to figure out where each piece fits. Sit alongside and let them take the lead. There is no rush, rules or structure. Let them fit the pieces and take them out again, praise any efforts or successes and support them when they ask.
Why: This builds problem-solving skills and patience. It’s all about them finding where things go and trying out different combinations, which is a big win in their world.
Activity 2: Nature Sorting
How: Gather a few sticks, leaves, and maybe even stones during your next stroll. Arrange a small area where they can sort these treasures by size, color, or type.
Why: Sorting helps toddlers observe the details in their environment and develops early logic skills. Plus, you both get to enjoy a bit of fresh air and sunshine.
Nursery Rhyme: Row, Row, Row Your Boat
Row, row, row your boat
Gently down the stream.
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.
Just four simple lines, and yet somehow this song has the ability to soothe, entertain, and get stuck in your head all at the same time! Perfect for quiet moments or when your toddler needs a distraction. This is a great one for supporting their social skills, sitting in boxes or washing baskets along a friend, hand in hand with an older sibling, or on the seesaw with another child, it always ends in lots of laughs...especially when you surprise them with a very loud scream!
Book of the Month: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
This classic has simple rhymes and vibrant illustrations, perfect for captivating little eyes and ears. Your toddler will enjoy guessing what comes next and joining in as they become familiar with the repetitive phrases. Remember, any book is a great book when you're reading together, even when their attention wanders halfway through!
Notice your little one choosing their own book and settling into a quiet, independent reading moment? That’s a special opportunity to step back and simply watch them. They’re not just looking at pictures, they’re exploring language, building memory, and starting to understand the rhythm of stories all on their own.
Allowing them this uninterrupted time is powerful. It nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a love of reading, while giving them the space to become an independent learner. Every turn of the page is a tiny achievement, and every word they remember is a step toward literacy. Sometimes, the best support is simply giving them the freedom to explore, without rushing in to help.
Did You Know?
Sorting activities build early logic and categorization skills. When your toddler lines up sticks or groups colorful leaves, they're learning how to organize their world in meaningful ways. How amazing is that?
Social & Emotional Skill Building
Try focusing on praising their effort over their speed or success with phrases like:
'your trying really hard,' 'thats it, keep trying' or 'Look how patiently you moved that piece!'
When we highlight their persistence, we're nurturing a mindset that values learning and effort, not just speed or accuracy. It’s about celebrating every tiny step they take.
✨ Remember
The days might be full and sometimes a little messy, but they're also rich with discovery and joy. Your presence, your voice, your shared laughter, these are what your toddler treasures most. You’re not just managing a day full of toddler explorations; you’re nurturing their growing world of learning and love.
You’re doing beautifully 💛
(If you’re curious for more ideas or resources, click here; only if it feels like the right time, no pressure at all.)