Fun Places for Two-Year-Olds

Music Class

• In recent years, many new organized classes for newborn babies through two-year-olds having been initiated. Participate together in a music class for toddlers and parents. Early exposure to music helps a child's brain develop more fully. A teacher will lead you and your child in singing, large body movements and following directions. Many of these classes are structured loosely, making it very child-friendly.

Nature Center

• The sights, textures, sounds and smells at a nature center make it a fun, educational place to visit with a two-year-old child. Many displays in nature centers are meant specifically for young visitors to explore and play. Read the instructions with each display to ensure that allowing your young child to explore is appropriate. Talk about the animal you see, feel the textures of the fur and listen to any bird calls, either outside or inside. Take a walk together in the nature trails and allow your child to soak in the sights, sounds and smalls around her. Many nature centers offer programs for young children and their parents. Participate in a program together to learn further from the nature center staff and help your young child socialize with peers.

Children's Museum

• A children's museum is designed for children to play, explore and experiment while learning. Allow your child to be your guide and play at his own pace. Many museums offer tunnels to crawl through, bubbles to blow, an area of pretend play or simply a quiet corner to read a book. Talk together about what your child is experiencing. You can learn about programs or traveling exhibits and best prepare by calling the museum prior to your visit.

Library

• Even at the tender age of two, children are learning to read by listening to the stories read to them, the inflection of the reader's voice and the flow of a story. Take your two-year-old child to your local library. She can choose a book from the shelf and find a quiet spot for you to read to her. Show your child the cover of the book and ask her what she thinks this story will be about. While reading, check if her prediction was right or if she wants to change her mind. Many libraries offer programs for young children to participate in. Help your child sit quietly during the organized story time and follow the instructions during the craft time or a special project the leader has planned.