2 years, 10 months old
Little Explorers, Big Adventures
Play ideas, a book, a song and a little encouragement for your 34 month old, from Maddie.
By Maddie, early childhood educator and Mum
4 min read · Updated
In this guide
Hey there, wonderful parent!
As time keeps moving, quicker than you can keep track of, you continue to marvel at your nearly 3 year old! Growing bolder and more curious each day, their language bursting and developing everyday, and unforgettable moments of laughter shining through. And you’re there with them, guiding, smiling, and sometimes catching your breath amidst the flurry of it all.
Remember that through all these little adventures and messes, just your presence gives them the courage to explore, try and do more.
Activity 1: Potion Play
How: Set up a simple “potion station”. Using containers, cups, spoons, water, and a few safe loose parts like leaves, petals, sand, or food colouring. Invite your child to pour, mix, scoop, and stir their own creations. Follow their lead as they explore, there’s no right or wrong way to make a potion. You can join in by asking open-ended questions like “What will you add next?” or “What does your potion do?” OR once they are engaged and in their own play you can step back, relax and just wait for them to bring you endless cups of tea or magic potion.
Make this as simple or as elaborate as you like on the day. Sometimes the simplest setups lead to the deepest play, allowing children’s own imagination, resourcefulness, and creativity to guide the experience.
Why: Potion play supports creativity, imagination, and language development as children describe what they’re making. It also builds early science thinking as they explore mixing, pouring, and cause and effect. The hands-on actions strengthen fine motor skills and coordination, while the open-ended nature of the play encourages focus and independent thinking.
Activity 2: Cutting Strips
How: Building on their scissor skills, give them a bit more space now. Offer your child some strips of paper or a whole sheet and a pair of child-safe scissors. Let them snip away, each little cut a mini triumph. If they still want some help, that's okay. Providing support when it's needed helps children feel safe, capable, and confident enough to keep trying.
Why: This activity helps strengthen fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Plus, it gives them a chance to practice independence in a fun, hands-on way. Every little snip is a step toward confidence.
Nursery Rhyme: Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,
Knees and toes,
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,
Knees and toes,
And eyes, and ears, and mouth, and nose,
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,
Knees and toes.
This classic rhyme is always a hit! It’s a fun way to stretch and move together! As they have become a lot more aware of their body, they will be able to follow along with the song a lot easier now, and will enjoy making it silly, by speeding it up, or doing it wrong and getting them to correct you!
Book of the Month: Guess How Much I Love You
Read this charming tale together and explore the bond between Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare. It’s about love, comparisons, and big emotions felt in small hearts. And remember, whether you're borrowing from the library or digging out an old favorite, any book shared is a world explored together.
Did You Know?
Potion play is a wonderful way for children to explore early science and math concepts. As they pour, mix, measure, and compare, they’re learning about volume, quantities, cause and effect, and basic measurement, all through hands-on play. It also introduces early scientific thinking as they observe how materials change and combine.
Social & Emotional Skill Building
Encourage bravery gently.
Notice those moments when they stand at the edge of something new. Offer a smile, a calm look, or a gentle, “I’m right here.” Whether it’s climbing the slide ladder or saying hello to a new friend, let them feel the safety of your support without pressure.
“You want to try the slide again? I see you’re ready.”
“You said hi to that new friend, brave of you!”
You’re helping them understand that bravery comes in all sizes, as small as a wave or as big as a jump.
✨ Remember Your presence is their anchor. Whether you’re cheering during a leap, soothing after a fall, or sharing a quiet book moment, you’re making lasting impressions of love and support. Each day together, you’re laying the groundwork for learning, trust, and joy in their world.
You’re doing beautifully. 💛