Toddlers are so beautiful, funny, fresh and full of life…
but also hard to manage and control! They are at that age where they want to
try everything and do everything on their own, but they are still very little
to let them go.
Toddlers are movement. They have a great passion for
discovering and trying new things. They learn by touching, smelling and
feeling. Some experts affirm that a kid’s intelligence will increase if the kid
is well stimulated, not only visually, but also by using touching and smelling
as opportunities to acquire more experiences. The contact with nature can be a
great learning experience and also an opportunity to increase their curiosity
and creativity. A picnic moment can offer to your toddler many occasions to
learn, discover and create. Below are some ideas that you can try in your next
picnic.
Play pretend with your little one. This simple game will
help him/her develop his/her imagination and creativity. You can use what you
have around you. If you are picnicking in a city park, you can pretend to be
squirrels. Play sneaking at the food, or jumping from tree to tree or hiding
nuts in the ground. If you are in a wooden area, you got more choices. Just
look around you and use your imagination. You can even pretend to be a tree,
which stands tall and moves with the wind. If you are picnicking in a beach,
you can be a fish, a seagull or even a wave. This simple game will help your
toddler be aware of his/her surroundings and learn about animal habits.
Let him or her help you. Toddlers learn by imitating you,
give him/her the opportunity to participate in the activity. Your little one
can help you set up the picnic or to serve part of the meal. Be very patient,
as they need extra time and often can be very messy. With your help and love,
your beautiful kid will soon understand the organization and you could be very
surprised to see how well he/she can handle a picnic.
Be spontaneous. If you want to encourage your child
creativity, give him/her space and don’t be rigid. Some games work better than
others, so be ready to adapt. Listen to your child and follow his/her lead. You
will be surprise by his/her imagination. A rock, a leaf or an insect can become
a game, a new occasion to explore and learn. 