Developmental Toys to Encourage Walking
Children begin walking between 11 and 18 months old. One way to encourage walking and to make this exciting time even more fun is to introduce your almost toddler to developmental push and pull toys. Push and pull toys are ideal to encourage walking. The process of pushing the toys makes the toddler take steps. Children can lean on the toy to gain balance while learning how to walk.
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Popcorn Popper
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The popcorn popper, made by various toy manufacturers, has a long handle that allows the child to push it or pull it. When she pulls or pushes it, it makes a dramatic and exciting popping sound and balls move around in a clear bubble that is in front of the handle.
Cars and Trucks
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Large toy cars and trucks can encourage walking. The toys need to be tall enough so that the child can push them while still standing up. To make him more interested in the toys, purchase ones in bright colors, such as red and yellow. He can stand up and push them around the room, which encourages walking.
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Animal Pull Toy
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Once she has started taking a few tentative steps, consider getting her an animal pull toy. As these pull toys do not have strong handles, she must have at least taken a few steps first. They usually have a long string and a handle attached. She will enjoy pulling it around and pretending that it is her very own pet bunny, dog or cat.
Plastic Grocery Carts
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A child-sized plastic grocery cart toy encourages walking along with developmental play. To make it life-like, give him toy food to play with and push around. He can pretend that he is grocery shopping just like mom and dad.
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References
- Photo Credit toddler singing image by Mary Beth Granger from Fotolia.com
