When a nap is the last thing on a toddlers mind, quiet time is the next best option. Quiet time allows for a little bit of down time and some much needed rest and relaxation for both children and adults. Providing low-key activities that are simple and do not require a lot of movement or energy are important to make the most of quiet time. Being able to engage in discreet activities and find comfort in solidarity fosters independent learning and self-exploration. In addition, it may be just what is needed to help toddlers fall asleep.
Creating a quiet time box for each day of the week is a great way to support toddlers during quiet time while keeping them occupied on their own accord. Each box should contain about four to five different options for children to choose from. Keeping them labeled and organized in small storage bins or laptop trays help to make items easily accessible for early learners. These pieces should be available only during quiet time, and they should be rotated every so often in order to provide a stimulating variety of toys and learning activities. Having the freedom to make their own selection to keep busy will help children to stay interested, focused, and quiet. Here are five quiet time suggestions that toddlers are sure to enjoy.
5 Quiet Time Activities for Toddlers
1. Puzzles
Puzzles are a simple and fun way to keep children busy during quiet time. Puzzles are not only interesting, but they build physical, cognitive, and emotional skills during the process. Holding and rotating small pieces to find where they fit strengthens hand-eye coordination, as well as, motor skills. Trying to solve the puzzle increases memory function, shape recognition, and builds an understanding of the concepts of patience and rewards. From peg puzzles to wooden puzzles, number puzzles to shape puzzles, there are many different kinds of puzzles that are sure to keep toddlers engaged for quiet time.
2. Books
Books are available in an array of types and styles. Children will enjoy looking at picture books, playing with interactive books, and listening to audio books during their quiet time. Providing a variety of books in the quiet time boxes will keep little ones occupied as they discover and learn.
3. Crayons
Always popular, crayons are perfect for a quiet time activity. Include a few coloring books or plain construction paper and let children explore their imaginations. Coloring provides a creative outlet for toddlers to discover themselves, others, and the world around them. In addition to crayons and paper, children will also enjoy dry erase markers and a white board, or chalk and a chalkboard.
4. Blocks
Block play is a very valuable and educational experience for children, which makes it a wonderful option for the quiet time box. Stimulating development in an array of skill sets, block play provides a chance to engage in both pretend play and constructive play. Blocks facilitate early learning in sorting, matching, and much more. Available in a wide variety of styles such as wooden or foam blocks, stacking or interlocking blocks, toddlers have a number of options when it comes to playing with blocks.
5. Magnets
Always fascinated with magnets, toddlers will enjoy having them available for quiet time. Offered in different styles and colors, magnets will provide unlimited fun as children stick and unstick them to metal surfaces. Alphabet or number magnets will help early learners discover letters and counting on their own. Block and marble magnets will facilitate creativity. Being able to move and manipulate the magnets as they wish encourages imaginative play and early problem solving skills.