play picker Find The Right Play Ideas For Your Kids
Rhythm Games
SUITABLE FOR AGES 0-2, 2+
Put your favourite music track on and give a baby a rattle, bell or tambourine and encourage him/her to shake it in time to the music. If you have one as well you can model the rhythm so they can feel the beat and then let them play along on their own. Exposure to music has been shown to help develop a range of skills and is a wonderful experience for children - it matters less what the music is (doesn't have to be Mozart) and more that it has a rhythm and is fun to listen to. Older children can use more advanced percussion instruments - drums and maracas are good ones to progress to once the rattle-type toys are out-grown.
REQUIRES 1, 2 OR 3 PLAYERS
![Physical](/images/play-icons/physical.png)
![Emotional](/images/play-icons/emotional.png)
INDOORS - OUTDOORS - TRAVELLING
TIME NEEDED: 60+ MINS
Stimulate babies' senses
SUITABLE FOR AGES 0-2
Let babies explore their toys by themselves. Rattles, teethers and squeaky toys are great for this. Make sure all the toys are clean as they will inevitably end up in their mouth!
REQUIRES 1, 2 OR 3 PLAYERS
![Physical](/images/play-icons/physical.png)
![Emotional](/images/play-icons/emotional.png)
![Creative](/images/play-icons/creative.png)
![Social](/images/play-icons/social.png)
INDOORS - OUTDOORS - TRAVELLING
TIME NEEDED: 60+ MINS
Swimming
SUITABLE FOR AGES 0-2, 2+
Head down to your local swimming pool and have fun in the water! Swimming is important for keeping fit and healthy but could also one day save a life. Look out for swimming lessons at the local pool so your child knows the basics.
REQUIRES 1 OR MORE PLAYERS
![Physical](/images/play-icons/physical.png)
![Emotional](/images/play-icons/emotional.png)
![Behavioural](/images/play-icons/behaviour.png)