Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed
Join the Neighborhood RSS
We’ve been covering the different stages developmental play. Here’s the overview and here are stages 1 & 2 Unoccupied/Solitary play.
Today’s stage of developmental play is just for 2 year olds! Well, not really…we actually use this type of play long after turning 2.
I’m talking about Spectator Play!
Just a FYI- this post does have some affiliate links. This simply means that buy purchasing the item directly from the link, I earn a small commission. Also- I only recommend toys/items that I personally use myself!
Social Play Stage – Spectator
Spectator play occurs when a toddler (around age 2) becomes aware of others in the room but doesn’t interact with them. Stage #3 of developmental play.
Have you ever been in a room of two-year-olds? It’s definitely not one of the quietest places- but there really isn’t much actual interaction going on (outside of the squeals of excitement, someone stealing another’s toy, or hitting someone because their toy was stolen). This is because at 2 years old- toddlers are aware of others in their environment but they don’t really know how to talk to each other. So, instead of talking- they act on their curiosity. This may look like taking the pretty, shiny, or loud toy they like from someone else without asking. Why? Well, they wanted it; it looked fun and, honestly, toddlers are only thinking about themselves.
2 Years Old Language Development
I tell parents, providers, and educators alllll the time- when it comes to toddlers- behaviors are communication. Especially in your early communicators and those experiencing delays or deficits in their developmental stages. While 2 year olds definitely aren’t expected to have a solid grasp on communication skills- they do have it figured out when it comes to getting attention- this happens through behaviors, verbal skills, vocalizations, and gestures. Additionally, they can typically identify familiar objects, people, and other things they are familiar with. Answering questions is emerging and they’re beginning to make choices (power in communication!) Our job as grown-ups, is to navigate these toddler stages of developmental play and encourage appropriate communication skills along the way.
Developmental Play: Toys for 2 Year Olds
When choosing toys for 2 year olds, those in the spectator stage; you’re going to look for toys that encourage play and curiosity. Muti-skill toys; toys that incorporate fine motor development along with language development, and cognitive skills really encourage curiosity and engagement. Stacking and building block activities, play sets (think: farm sets, Mr. Potato Head, little people), and books are also great for this age group.
Play-Based Speech Therapy for Toddlers
When it comes to planning play-based speech therapy activities for toddlers, keep mind in this stage of developmental play toddlers aren’t really going to be interested in play with you directly. Understanding how toddlers develop play skills and the early years developmental milestones helps manage your expectations and, in turn, encourage progress. Follow their lead. Narrate their activities and provide prompting or cues when needed. Most importantly – Just play!
As always: progress is in the minor development when it comes to toddler development and growth.
Looking for a printable for developmental play stages? You can find one here!
3 Responses