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[Childcare] Recommended play ideas for caring for 2-year-olds

Two-year-olds are able to do more and start to understand simple rules.

Some teachers wonder how to incorporate a variety of play activities.

Since the range of activities you can suggest depends on the class atmosphere, it’s easy to feel unsure about what to choose.

So, we’ve gathered play ideas recommended for two-year-olds!

We’ve mixed in both outdoor and indoor activities, with rules ranging from very simple to a bit more complex, so you’re sure to find ideas that fit your class.

Have a great time playing with the children to your heart’s content!

[Childcare] Recommended Play Ideas for 2-Year-Olds (31–40)

Cleaning Eurhythmics

♫49 [Review] This is what the Cleaning Eurhythmics was like
Cleaning Eurhythmics

Let’s make use of handkerchiefs and organza fabric! Here are some ideas for “cleaning-themed eurhythmics.” Eurhythmics is an educational method that combines music and movement, and it’s said to be especially effective in early childhood.

This time, let’s play with a cleaning theme through cleaning eurhythmics.

By using handkerchiefs, children can move their hands and arms in time with the music.

A nice benefit is that they can develop a sense of force control and rhythm while having fun.

Using light, soft materials also makes them easier for children to handle!

Playing with plastic raffia (Suzuran tape)

Let’s adapt the ways we play to suit children’s development! Here are some ideas for playing with suzuran tape.

Suzuran tape is a thin plastic tape known for its colorful appearance.

Because the material is light and flexible, you can cut it with scissors, tie it, or weave it, allowing for all kinds of creative variations and uses in different games.

This time, let’s try making a suzuran tape curtain, a suzuran tape “bath,” and suzuran tape pom-poms.

It sounds like these activities will spark excitement and fun.

Signaling Game

A quick pastime for spare moments: the ‘Traffic Light Game’ for older preschoolers/also great for recreation
Signaling Game

It’s also great for a quick play during small breaks! Here’s an idea for a traffic light game.

Traffic lights are important indicators for learning traffic rules.

When crossing roads where cars and bicycles are moving, they play a crucial role in keeping yourself safe.

This time, let’s use the colors of the traffic light to play a game.

Move forward on “green,” step back on “yellow,” and stop on “red.” Through these simple rules, children can get a feel for the basic rules of “waiting” and “moving.”

Shadow Play

10 Shadow Puppet Ideas: The third one is perched on a branch
Shadow Play

A unique play that sparks imagination! Here are some shadow play ideas.

They’re perfect for 2-year-olds and great for drawing out their creativity.

Use hands or toys and hold them up to a light or sunlight, then look at the shadows on a wall or screen and imagine animals, flowers, vehicles, and more.

While looking at the shapes, ask your child questions like, “What do you think that is?” or “What does it look like?” and enjoy playing together.

It’s simple and easy to understand, so it’s great that you can start right away.

Have fun learning while nurturing vision and imagination!

Playing with empty boxes

[For 2-year-olds] Playing with empty boxes!
Playing with empty boxes

Let’s make the most of scrap materials and play freely! Here are some ideas for playing with empty boxes.

It’s a wonderful activity to enjoy with two-year-olds while bringing out their creativity.

You can add dividers to a box to roll small balls through it, or stack and line up boxes to make tunnels to play with.

Children will expand their own imaginations and come up with many ways to use the boxes.

Through this activity, they can develop fine motor skills and spatial awareness, while enriching their creativity!

[Childcare] Recommended play ideas for caring for 2-year-olds (41–50)

gomudan

Here’s how to play Gomu-dan (rubber band jumping).

First, prepare a flat elastic band, and have two people hold the ends.

Let’s start with a simple jump-over game.

Hold the band at ankle height and jump over it.

Even if your feet catch on the band, it’s a success as long as you make it through to the other side.

Try different ways of jumping, like two-footed jumps, backward two-footed jumps, and cartwheel jumps! You can also raise the height to increase the difficulty and excitement.

Be sure to keep the band pulled tight—if it’s slack, it can be dangerous.

Animal Role-Playing Game

[Age 4] Animal Role-Playing Game — Body-Building Games for 4-Year-Olds | Torikai Yui-Kindergarten [Nursery School/Kindergarten]
Animal Role-Playing Game

Let me introduce the Animal Role-Play Game, where you pretend to be animals.

The rules are simple: you become the animal given as the prompt and play by running around cones or avoiding obstacles.

Because you move your whole body, it can really liven up parties and gatherings.

Wearing animal masks or making animal sounds while you play is also recommended.

When you start the game, make sure to secure a spacious area and play safely to avoid injuries!