Water play activities can be a delightful and educational experience for an 18-month-old child. It’s important to ensure a safe and supervised environment for these activities. Here are some water play ideas for an 18-month-old:
1. Sensory Bin with Water:
Fill a shallow plastic container or a small inflatable baby pool with a few inches of water. Add child-safe toys like rubber ducks, cups, and small containers for your child to explore.
2. Splash and Play:
Allow your child to splash in a baby pool or a large basin of water. Use a small watering can or a cup to pour water and let them watch the water flow.
3. Watering Plants:
If you have a garden, involve your child in watering plants. They can use a small watering can or a spray bottle with your guidance.
4. Floating Objects:
Add a few floating objects like foam letters or small boats to the water. Encourage your child to pick them up and explore.
5. Pouring and Filling:
Provide various containers, cups, and buckets for your child to fill and pour water. This promotes hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
6. Water Table Play:
If you have a water table, it’s an excellent setup for water play. Add toys, waterwheels, and scooping tools for your child to interact with.
7. Bath Time Fun:
Turn bath time into a water play activity by adding colorful bath toys or foam letters and numbers.
8. Bubble Play:
Blow bubbles for your child to chase, pop, or try to catch. It’s a fun way to engage their visual and motor skills.
9. Sprinkler Play:
On a hot day, consider setting up a sprinkler in the yard for your child to run through. Ensure the water pressure is gentle and that the child is dressed appropriately.
10. Measuring and Pouring:
Show your child how to use measuring cups or spoons to scoop and pour water. They can experiment with different sizes and quantities.
11. Water Art:
Provide a paintbrush and a cup of water. Encourage your child to paint on a concrete or wooden surface, observing how the water changes the color temporarily.
12. Washing Toys:
Let your child wash their toys in a basin of water with a cloth. This activity can teach them about the concept of cleaning.
13. Sink or Float Experiment:
Gather various small objects and ask your child to predict whether they will sink or float. Drop them into the water and discuss the results.
14. Water Sensory Bags:
Fill sealable plastic bags with water and a few small toys or objects. Seal them tightly and let your child squish and explore the contents.
15. Ice Cube Play:
Freeze small toys or objects in ice cubes, and then let your child use warm water to melt the ice and free the objects.
Always ensure that water play is done under supervision, and use child-safe and age-appropriate materials and toys. Water play not only entertains but also provides sensory and cognitive benefits for an 18-month-old child.