Why water activities are great for toddlers!

Summer is finally here and we are so happy!! This weather is great because it allow us to be outside and specially that our little ones discover more about the world out there. My favourite part of summer is going to swim, in general we love water activities and for this reason I love offering my daughter the possibility to play with water.

Water activities offer a great way to support our little one's development. Here some reason, why water activities are great for toddlers:

1. Sensory stimulation: Water play engages multiple senses, including touch, sight, and sound. Toddlers can feel the water's temperature, texture, and movement, which provides valuable sensory input and helps develop their sensory processing skills.

2. Fine motor skill development: Water activities often involve pouring, scooping, squeezing, and manipulating objects, which promote the development of fine motor skills. These activities strengthen hand and finger muscles, enhance hand-eye coordination, and refine their dexterity.

3. Cognitive and problem-solving skills: Water play encourages toddlers to explore and experiment. They learn about cause and effect as they pour water, observe how it flows and reacts to different objects or movements. It stimulates their curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities as they figure out how to make things float, sink, or move in the water.

4. Language and social development: Water activities provide opportunities for social interaction and language development. Toddlers can engage in cooperative play, take turns, and share water toys. They can also engage in conversations about what they are doing, describe what they see or feel, and learn new vocabulary related to water, such as "splash," "pour," or "float."

5. Emotional regulation and relaxation: Water play has a calming and soothing effect on many toddlers. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. The repetitive and rhythmic movements associated with water play can have a calming effect and provide a sensory outlet for emotional expression.

6. Physical development: Water activities offer a low-impact form of exercise for toddlers. Moving, splashing, and playing in water helps improve their strength, coordination, and overall physical development. Water also provides resistance, which can enhance muscle tone and promote gross motor skills.

7. Fun and enjoyment: Above all, water activities are simply fun and enjoyable for toddlers! Water play offers a refreshing and exciting experience that can captivate their attention and bring joy and laughter to their playtime.

When engaging toddlers in water activities, it's essential to prioritize their safety, supervise closely, and use age-appropriate materials (check out our age appropriate toys) . With proper precautions, water activities provide a rich and beneficial learning and play experience for toddlers. 

I have created a guide with some great Water Activities for this summer! Download it here!

Have fun!