With the pandemic, toddlers all around the world are growing up and adjusting to the new times. And this includes limiting both play and learning to indoors. Thus, it becomes important to make time for both while ensuring they do not miss out on important learning lessons. One way to ensure the same is to make the learning sessions fun with various methods and props.
So here are 5 ways to make learning super fun!
Use everyday objects in lessons
Whether you’re teaching numbers or shapes, you can find many objects around the house that can be used to teach the same. Uncooked pasta, toys, bottle caps, cookware etc. are some of the many things that you can use to teach more about numbers and shapes.
Make it colourful
There is rarely anything that the little ones like more than colours - from using them to memorizing them, colours make for fun and effective learning methods. You can use washable paint, chalks and crayons to include some bright and cheerful colours into your toddler’s study routine. The kids can use colours to draw shapes, write numbers or alphabets or even other objects.
Let them lead the lessons
Toddlers are rarely made to feel like they are in charge so allowing them to take the lead during study sessions can encourage them to be more active in learning. You can let them choose what they want to study or how they want to learn (by choosing props etc.).
Weave lessons into stories
Who doesn’t love a good storytime? And especially so, when it comes to the kiddos. So weave important lessons or even numbers into stories and your toddlers will surely love it. Incorporating lessons in stories will also help them retain the lessons for a longer duration as it leads to better recall.
Embark on a musical journey
Many kids have a natural affinity for music and overall most toddlers enjoy some form of music or the other. There are many online tools and apps that have lessons, numbers, colours and almost everything under the sun in rhymes and songs. These also help toddlers remember the teachings more easily.
Happy learning!
FAQ's
Q. Why is making learning fun important for toddlers?
Ans.Fun learning keeps toddlers engaged, making it easier for them to retain concepts like numbers, shapes, and colors. Especially during the pandemic, when outdoor play is limited, creative methods prevent boredom and promote curiosity. When toddlers enjoy learning, they develop positive attitudes, improving cognitive development and overall growth.
Q. How can everyday objects be used for learning?
Ans.Everyday items like uncooked pasta, bottle caps, and cookware are excellent teaching aids. They help toddlers understand numbers, shapes, and patterns practically. For example, pasta pieces can be counted, bottle caps can be sorted by color or size, and cookware lids can help identify different shapes, making lessons interactive.
Q. Why should we use colors in toddler learning sessions?
Ans.Toddlers are naturally attracted to bright colors, making lessons more appealing and memorable. Using washable paints, crayons, or chalk helps them identify and memorize numbers, alphabets, and shapes creatively. It also enhances motor skills and sensory development, as kids learn through drawing, coloring, and arranging colorful objects.
Q. How does letting toddlers lead their lessons help?
Ans.When toddlers choose what to learn or how to learn, they feel more in control and confident. This encourages active participation, curiosity, and independent thinking. Instead of being passive learners, they become decision-makers, making the learning process more enjoyable and boosting their interest in exploring new concepts at their own pace.
Q. What are the benefits of using stories in lessons?
Ans.Incorporating lessons into stories makes learning relatable and enjoyable. Toddlers love stories, so embedding numbers, shapes, or colors into narratives helps them grasp concepts effortlessly. It improves memory recall because the information is part of a fun, contextual experience, rather than isolated facts, making learning engaging and effective.
Q. How can music help toddlers in learning?
Ans.Music makes learning enjoyable and helps toddlers remember concepts easily. Rhymes and songs teach numbers, alphabets, and colors rhythmically, improving retention and recall. Music also supports auditory learning, language development, and mood regulation. Many apps provide interactive songs that keep toddlers engaged while learning key concepts.
Q. What are the challenges of indoor learning for toddlers?
Ans.Indoor learning can feel monotonous, causing toddlers to lose focus or get frustrated. Limited space and fewer physical activities can hinder energy release. Without engaging strategies, toddlers may resist learning sessions. Creative methods like using props, colors, stories, and music are essential to keep them motivated and ensure effective learning indoors.
Q. How do props enhance toddler learning sessions?
Ans.Props make abstract concepts tangible and relatable. Everyday objects transform into learning tools, enabling hands-on activities. For example, toys can represent numbers, while kitchenware helps teach shapes. Props stimulate sensory engagement and active participation, making lessons memorable and boosting toddlers’ understanding of concepts in an interactive, fun way.
Q. How often should fun learning activities be conducted?
Ans.Consistency is important, but overdoing can cause fatigue. Aim for short, engaging sessions of 15–30 minutes, 3–5 times a week. It maintains toddlers’ interest without overwhelming them. Frequent yet brief activities help build a positive learning habit, ensuring continuous development of skills while keeping them excited about learning.
Q. Can online tools replace hands-on learning for toddlers?
Ans.Online tools are helpful but should complement hands-on learning, not replace it. Interactive apps and songs boost auditory and visual learning, but tactile experiences, like using everyday objects or drawing with crayons, are essential for sensory development. A balanced mix ensures comprehensive learning that engages multiple senses effectively.
