Families come in different shapes and sizes – yet regardless of the form, the benefits of shared play are powerful!

Playing shared games such role-play, imaginative games, or singing regularly has shown to make families happier, less stressed and healthier compared those who do not engage in as much shared play.

Research shows that play is associated with a range of benefits, not only for the child and you as the parent, but for the entire family.

So, with that here are some ideas for indoor games to do with your toddler.

Build a fort

With your toddler, in a dedicated space;

1. Drape some blankets over your furniture
2. Hang sheets from the ceiling
3. Set up pillows inside the fort
4. Jump in with your toddler for cool, creative play space.

Sing songs

Music is great for toddlers learning and development. You do not need anything but your voice to sing with your toddler, however, here are some ideas which may be make things more fun for sound and music.

1. Toys that make sounds, like rattles, drums and things that squeak when you squeeze them
2. Clap your hands, stomp your feet and click your tongue
3. Hold your toddler and dance to the music
4. Sing songs to your baby. They can be soft and slow like a lullaby, or fast, loud and fun
5. You can also hold your baby’s hands and move them in time to the music

The body game

With you toddler

1. Name your toddlers body parts and point to them to help teach their names
2. Say “where is baby’s nose? There it is”
3. You can point to your own nose as well to help your toddler make the connection between the two and say “Where is mommy’s nose? Here it is?”

Pass the ball

With your toddler, sit on the floor with a soft ball

1. Roll the ball back and forth with your toddler
2. If you want to make it even more fun, try adding another ball into the mix.

Dancing

1. Dance with your toddler. Hold them close as you dance around the room together and make them laugh as you dance to some of your favourite songs.
2. Dancing activities help your toddler to develop their rhythm and coordination.

It is important to remember, having a loving, stable and responsive relationship is fundamental to your toddler’s development.

The more experiences your toddler has with you there to support them, the more your child grows and thrives.

When your child feels safe and attached to you, your child is more likely to have the confidence to explore their world. Playing with your toddler strengthens your relationship and encourages your toddler to explore, observe, experiment and solve problems.

If you have any concerns with your child’s development, you can find out more by accessing the Early Childhood Authority’s website at www.eca.gov.ae or contact the Child Health Line on 024194983. Operated by Mubadala Health (available 10:00 am -18:00 pm).

This initiative is a collaboration between the Early Childhood Authority, Mubadala and Mubadala Health