Toddler Mom tales

As a stay-at-home mom and former mathematics teacher, I’ve embarked on a fulfilling journey of teaching my toddler at home. With childcare and preschool options being quite expensive here, I’ve embraced the challenge and joy of being my child’s first teacher. I’d love to share some of the tips and tricks that have worked for us, making learning not just effective but also a bundle of fun!

*This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Let’s dive in! *

1. Everyday Learning Adventures

Without the structure of preschool, I’ve turned our daily routines into learning opportunities. We count steps, look for letters in our environment, and turn grocery shopping into a mini lesson in counting and recognising numbers. It’s all about making the most of these everyday moments.

2. Story time with a Twist

Books are a fantastic tool. We have a ritual where we read together, and I make it interactive by asking my little one to identify letters and numbers in the book. The pictures and stories make it more engaging, turning learning into a delightful adventure.

3. Songs and Rhymes

Who doesn’t love a good sing-along? Songs like ‘The Alphabet Song’ or ‘Five Little Ducks’ are not just fun but also incredibly effective in teaching letters and numbers.Our home is often filled with the sound of nursery rhymes and alphabet songs.

4. Playful Learning with Games

I believe in the power of play for learning. We often engage in games that involve matching letters and numbers or simple puzzles. These activities keep my toddler engaged and make learning feel like play.Toys like “SpringFlower See & Spell Learning Toy” provide a hands-on experience with letters, enhancing letter recognition and spelling skills.

5. Creative Crafts for Learning

Arts and crafts time is an opportunity for learning. We create letters and numbers with play dough, go on alphabet scavenger hunts, and even paint numbers. These activities are great for hands-on learning and also for developing fine motor skills.

6. Mindful Screen Time

While we limit screen time, we occasionally use educational apps and videos as a supplement. For more structured screen time, we use the “LeapFrog LeapStart Preschool Activity Book”, which is interactive and educational.

Patience and Praise

Patience is key in home learning. Every child’s pace is different, and I’ve learned to celebrate each small victory, whether it’s correctly identifying a letter or counting objects.

Reflecting on the Journey

Teaching my toddler at home, away from the formal setting of a childcare centre or preschool, has its challenges, but the joys far outweigh them. It’s a path filled with discovery, laughter, and precious moments. As we navigate this learning journey together, it’s the quality time spent and the bond we strengthen that I cherish the most.

In this journey, I’m not just a teacher, I’m a learner too, constantly discovering new and exciting ways to engage my little one’s curious mind. Here’s to all the stay-at-home mommas out there, making learning at home a wonderful adventure!