Acknowledgements - gapitc

Go to a playground that has play structures for young children. Encourage your
child to hold onto the railing and walk up the steps on the play equipment. Find a
slide and encourage her to slide down,too! Stand close by if your child is unsteady
and help her gain confidence as she builds coordination and balance skills!
When you want something fun to do with your child, put on some music and
watch your two year old dance,dance,dance! Have a box of props such as scarves,
streamers, and cheerleading pompoms for your child to use while he dances.
Read a book such as From Head to Toe by Eric Carle, which offers another way
to bring movement indoors! This book is also available in a Spanish version—De
La Cabeza a Los Pies.
Recorded music by such artists as Greg and Steve,Ella Jenkins,the Laurie Berkner
Band, and Putamayo Kids have a wide variety of songs that encourage movement.
Check for recorded music in the children’s section of the public library.
Spend time playing outside. Two year olds do not need much direction to learn
to run, jump, and climb but they do need space to move around.
Limit the amount of time you expect your two year old to sit still. Offer her the
opportunity to sit and listen to a story, but let her get up and move when she
needs to.
Choose restaurants that are “child friendly”—where some noise and movement
are acceptable. Bring a book, crayons and paper, or a quiet toy to occupy your
child while waiting for your food.
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