Hide and seek – Toddler

Young children delight in hiding games. Hide and seek games can include hiding with people or hiding objects to be found.

Did You Know?

Children are learning about spatial awareness when they are trying to hide themselves or an object. This awareness of what fits in what space is important in learning early maths concepts.

Add Language

Use language to build anticipation e.g. Sing “Where oh where oh where is Teddy? Where can Teddy be?”

Use language related to positions e.g. “Is he under the table? No! Is he behind the door? No! Where can he be? There he is! He’s in the …..” Both understanding and using position and direction words are important for early maths skills.

Variations

Throw a blanket over a table and crawl in to “hide”. Take turns to peep or pop out and go back in.

Have the toddler hide in a large box and sing “Jack is hiding down in his box until somebody opens the lid”. Lift the lid and have them jump up and wiggle about.

Take turns to hide an object or toy and go on a treasure hunt to find it. Keep hiding places fairly easy to discover and within a specific area in the beginning.

Safety

Be mindful that the child does not have access to hiding places they can become trapped or injured in.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. Check out hide and seek 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.