There are many activities that are inexpensive, interactive, and perfect for creating special festive memories while helping toddlers learn through play.

Here are fun, hands-on activities you can enjoy with toddlers this festive season:
• Finger painting: Lay down paper or cardboard and let them explore colours with their hands. Use washable, child-safe paint and allow them to create freely. It supports sensory development, creativity, and finger strength.

• Playdough creations: Make shapes, pretend food, or animals using store-bought or homemade playdough. Rolling, pinching, and shaping help toddlers develop fine motor skills and imagination.

• Water play: Fill a basin or small container with water and add spoons, cups, and small toys. Pouring and scooping teaches coordination and cause-and-effect. Always supervise closely.

• Nature discovery walks: Collect leaves, stones, sticks, and flowers. Let toddlers observe textures, colours, and smells. Afterwards, sort or glue the items to make a nature collage.

• Christmas cookie decorating: Bake simple sugar biscuits and let toddlers decorate with icing and sprinkles. It’s messy, fun, and creates festive memories (plus snacks!)

• Sensory bins: Use rice, coloured pasta, beans, or sand. Add scoops, small cups, or blocks. Toddlers love exploring and it strengthens problem-solving and hand movement.

• Build and stack challenges: Blocks, plastic cups, or empty boxes become towers, garages, or castles. This helps balance, spatial awareness, and teamwork.

• Bubble play: Blow bubbles and encourage toddlers to chase, pop, or try to blow their own. It promotes movement and hand-eye coordination.

• Music and dance time: Use pots, pans, spoons, or safe shakers. Sing along to festive songs and allow toddlers to move freely. Music builds rhythm, attention, and confidence.

• Pretend play: Set up a mini shop, tea party, doctor’s station, or kitchen. Pretend play teaches social skills, language, and empathy while keeping toddlers engaged.