Learning to identify different colors is one of the many new experiences a toddler will face. At this age, they are discovering the wonders of the world and developing the skills that will carry them through preschool and beyond. If your child is about to enter an infant and toddler program, you can prepare them by introducing them to the colors they’ll learn to name. Here are some fun ways to teach them at home.

How to Teach Your Toddler About Colors

1. Matching Games

Recognizing colors is key to understanding the differences between them. To help your toddler retain the names of different shades, show them objects that correspond. For example, show your little one a brown teddy bear and ask them to bring over another brown toy. This will help them learn independently. It will also teach them to grow more accustomed to different objects, which can be helpful in an infant and toddler program where they will have plenty of new toys at their disposal.

2. Coloring 

Coloring books are great for keeping kids busy, but they’re also exceptional learning tools you can use even before your child enters an infant and toddler program. Pick up a few different options so your child can choose their favorite. As they color, show them how different shades correspond to their surroundings. You can point out the grass, sky, trees, and sun outside to guide them when selecting pencils or crayons. They’ll learn to recognize these hues and make associations between the natural world and what you teach them.

3. Food Naming

You can even use food as an innovative teaching tool. Prepare a plate full of colorful ingredients such as tomatoes, green beans, carrots, beets, and cheddar cheese. Teach them how to identify each one by saying the ingredient’s name along with its color. Your child will learn to detect a red apple, for example, and make connections between nature and what they eat.

Parents throughout the Mendon and Honeoye Falls areas of New York trust the caring and experienced staff at Mendon Child Care Center to help their children thrive. The early learning center offers infant and toddler programs, as well as options for kids up to five years old. Through their comprehensive child care curricula, your toddler will learn the fundamentals they need to succeed personally and academically. Visit them online to learn about their programs, or call (585) 624-2337 to arrange a visit.