Out and about
Tip #1: Go, go, stop!
Tip #1: Go, go, stop!
Tip #2: Shadow chasers
Tip #2: Shadow chasers
Tip #3: Chalk the walk
Tip #3: Chalk the walk
Tip #4: I can see a rainbow
Tip #4: I can see a rainbow
Tip #5: What’s that sound?
Tip #5: What’s that sound?
Tip #6: Give them freedom
Tip #6: Give them freedom
Tip #7: Hot lava
Tip #7: Hot lava
Fun with nature
Tip #1: Park fun
Tip #1: Park fun
Tip #2: Treasure hunting for gold
Tip #2: Treasure hunting for gold
Tip #3: Ball games for toddlers
Tip #3: Ball games for toddlers
Tip #4: Five, six, pick up sticks!
Tip #4: Five, six, pick up sticks!
Tip #5: Creative fun
Tip #5: Creative fun
Tip #6: Discovery bottles
Tip #6: Discovery bottles
Fun in the rain
Tip #1: Jump in puddles
Tip #1: Jump in puddles
Tip #2: Singing and playing in the rain
Tip #2: Singing and playing in the rain
Tip #3: Splashing around
Tip #3: Splashing around
What the parents say
Washing hands
It’s fun to play outside. Mud is good! However, it’s really important that we wash our hands when we get home. When we do, we lower our chances of catching and spreading germs.
Wash thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds – the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice. Doing this helps us all stay safe!
What the professionals say
“For toddlers, playing is as important as eating the right, healthy food. Playing helps them develop their personality and most importantly it’s fun. But playing doesn't mean going out and spending lots of money. Chances are you’ll got loads of things around the house that will be just as fascinating to your toddler as expensive toys. Want to know your child’s favourite toy? It’s you. And playing will help you bond with your child. Kids love playing with parents, using them as a horse to trot around the house. Spend time playing with your child each day, even if it’s only a short period of time. This gives you both quality time together and makes for a happy child.”
Carol Ramsay, Family Nurse Supervisor, NHS Tayside Family Nurse Partnership (FNP)
Tickle for ticks
Remember to check for ticks after playing outside – particularly if you've been in long grass or woodlands. These little critters attach to skin underneath clothing and can make little ones poorly. Why not make a fun game out of checking for ticks – by having a good look then tickling for lots of giggles? For guidance on how to remove ticks, visit NHS inform.