Celebrations – Toddler

While toddlers are starting to pay attention to presents as well as wrapping paper their memory is also improving, this makes it a wonderful time to establish traditions and rituals around special occasions.

Attitudes to giving and receiving and to family time, especially extended family can be shaped by what happens. Take time to think about what you want your children to remember.

Did you know?

Family and cultural celebrations foster a sense of belonging.

The ritual of lighting or blowing out candles, coming together for a special meal, or decorating are all traditions and ways of celebrating that your toddler can engage in and learn from.

Add language

Taking pictures and making your own books of your family’s celebrations gives you lots of opportunities for having conversations and building your toddler’s language and memory skills.

Sharing picture books about familiar celebrations such as birthdays also provides a focus for having a conversation.

Other development

Dancing to the music related to the celebration delights toddlers and is a fun way to develop body awareness and movement skills.

Safety

Always supervise your toddler (Celebrations may involve extra objects that can be safety hazards for toddlers e.g. candles, sparklers, easily reached small items).

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how celebrations can be fun for babies, children and playgroups.

Activities listed under “toddler” are suitable for children aged 1-3 years. Toddlers enjoy activities that include exploring their environment and finding out how things work.