First of all, it is important for parents to understand that a child at this age level is engaged in active brain development. It is imperative that we provide quality, age-appropriate learning experiences for toddlers, because this stimulates hundreds of thousands of neural connections within the brain. The more neural connections formed up to age 3, the less brain cells will die off as the result of lacking synapses, or connections between the cells. Many of the simple activities I am about to suggest, I utilize often in my preschool class of 10 students. These activities will create a unique bonding experience for parents and child, serving as true quality time.
Puppets tell a story.
Use a hand puppet to tell a short story to your child. If possible, us a puppet that is part of the story. You can use a puppet to say rhymes, sing songs, and even give your child instructions. Make a few sets of matching picture cards. Use clear pictures of things that are familiar to your toddler, such as two pictures of the same dog or two of the same cup.