Toddlers need a mixture of both structure and play as they develop. A structured environment allows a toddler to become familiar with rules and behavioral expectations. Play gives the toddler the chance to develop her creativity and find interests. As you plan your toddler’s day, make time for a mix of structured activities and free play time.
Routines
According to Dr. Laura Markham, creating a routine for a toddler is essential to meeting her basic need to feel secure. A routine should teach the toddler how to manage her day and know what to expect. The routine could allow for some flexibility, but should follow a basic schedule. Write out the routine on a poster board and go over it with the toddler. Give a timeline for each activity such as meals, bathing, play, nap and bedtime.
Free Play Benefits
According to a 2009 issue of the “Scientific American,” free play allows for toddlers and children to build cognitive skills, cope with stress and become socially adept. Play provides balance for the toddler and allows her to more readily accept the requirements for more structured activities, such as mealtimes and dressing. Free-play activities should include games and activities that let the toddlers use their imaginations, such as blocks, tag and dolls.
Discipline
Disciplinary measures need to be part of the structured environment you create for your toddler. According to the Ask Dr. Sears website, although play allows her to explore, boundaries create a great sense of security. Limits do not have to confine the child, but teach her to function properly in a controlled environment. Let her know the rules and be prepared to constantly remind the toddler of the rules.
Play Guidelines
According to a 2007 report published in “Pediatrics,” play is healthy for brain development, dexterity, physical strength, emotional capabilities and developing a child’s imagination. Adults can participate in play with children but should allow children to control the rules. The report in “Pediatrics” states that when adults make the rules and attempt to create structure in the game, children lose out on furthering their creativity, leadership skills and ability to work as a group.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears.com: 8 Tools for Toddler Discipline
- Aha! Parenting.com: Routines and Structure that Toddlers Can Understand
- Scientific American: The Serious Need for Play
- American Academy of Pediatrics: The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds
