Your infant or toddler experiences cognitive, physical and social-emotional growth when engaging in sensory activities such as water play, according to Penn State Cooperative Extension's Better Kid Care Program. Water-play activities range from running through the sprinklers outside to bringing the fun inside by filling up the kitchen sink with water and toys. Always stay close to your children when playing with water; even an inch of water poses a drowning risk for small children.
Kiddie Pool
A kiddie pool allows your child to experience water play outside of the bathtub. Fill a kiddie pool or a large plastic tub with water and allow your toddler to explore the water. Add bath toys, kitchen utensils or recycled plastic containers to improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination through filling and pouring water from the containers. If your infant can sit on his own, place him in a small amount of water and encourage splashing and kicking. For an infant who is not sitting yet, put on a swimsuit and sit in the water with him.
Water Table
Bring water activities inside with a water table or place a small tub or pan of water on a stable table. To reduce the mess caused by water, place a plastic mat or sheet under the area where you'll be playing. Show your toddler how to stir the water in the table or tub, or show your infant how to splash the water in the pan. Encourage your child to use her imagination by pretending to wash dishes and show her what happens when you dry them off. Disinfect your water table regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria that can grow in moist areas.
Water Painting
Painting with water is a simple activity that can be performed both inside and outdoors. Give your child a large paintbrush and a container with a small amount of water. Sit with your infant or toddler and paint the sidewalk, walls or toys outside. Show your child what happens if you paint paper or let him paint toys indoors. Ask questions about what he is painting or tell him what you are painting to introduce new vocabulary and encourage language development.
Swim Class
Several health clubs and swimming pools offer swim classes designed specifically for infants and toddlers. These classes generally include singing songs, playing with water toys, kicking, splashing and learning to blow bubbles. Having a parent hold them and guide them through the water helps children feel more comfortable and less anxious about being in the water. Most classes require registration and a fee and some health clubs and pool may require membership.
