When your child attends a regular day care program, you should ensure you are performing exercises at home to help them retain the information they learn. From tactile games to number exercises, working with your toddler is vital to their academic growth and development. When you pick your child up from day care, consider the following learning games to play with them to exercise their brain.

Top Games to Play with Your Young Child

1. Play Pretend

Once your child reaches the toddler years, they are well-versed on what daily chores you complete. Sharpen your child’s mind and increase their self-independence by encouraging imaginative play. Whether they are playing in their toy kitchen and preparing dinner, or taking care of a favorite doll, encourage your child to take responsibility by playing pretend regularly.

2. Simon Says

While it is a popular game from your childhood, Simon Says teaches your toddler how to follow instructions and hone their listening skills. Simon Says not only requires your child to complete routine physical activities, but it also makes them focus on the specific task and directions. You can play this game with adults and children alike, or strictly toddlers in a day care classroom setting.

3. Follow the Leader

This childhood game not only reminds your child how to follow directions, but it also allows them to test their leadership skills. Toddlers are just learning how to assert their independence, which makes a game of Follow the Leader an excellent way to let them exert themselves, while still having fun and being social with other children their age.

4. Basic Board Games

While games like Monopoly® and Life® may be too advanced for your toddler, more accessible board games like Candyland® and Chutes and Ladders® are for younger minds. These games not only help children to learn how to follow the rules, but it also gives them practice at winning and losing gracefully.

If you are looking for a day care that offers both compassion and education in one setting, talk to the professionals at Brite Beginnings Child Care in Saint Peters, MO. Whether you’re looking for child care, at work, or want to prepare your toddler for kindergarten, this facility offers the services you need to help your child grow. To learn more about the programs they offer, visit them online or call (636) 495-2471.