Hide and Seek

Hide and Seek is a classic game that active, moving toddlers love to play. Learn how this simple activity helps with your child’s development.

Kid sitting on couch with pillow fort
Supplies list
  • You!

Instructions

Help your toddler learn the concept of finding hidden things (or people!) and learn problem-solving skills by playing Hide and Seek.

  1. In a safe place, begin by having your toddler hide while you count.

  2. Cover your eyes and count to 10, then say, “Ready or not, here I come!”

  3. Describe your “seeking” process out loud so your toddler hears you looking for her. You can say, “I’m looking in the closet. Is she there? No! Where else could she be?” Don’t take too long to find your toddler so she stays engaged in the game.

  4. When you find your toddler, tickle her and say, “Found you! Now, who is next to hide?”

Some children may not understand hiding right away, so play the game with a few other adults and/or older children first so your toddler understands the game before doing it on her own.

This activity helps your toddler develop listening skills, early math skills, imitation skills, motor skills, comprehension skills, attention span, social skills, emotional understanding, and language skills.

First 5 California
Contributed by:
First 5 California
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