September 1, 2024 — By Wendy Sachs

Whether you are a parent or a nanny, there is a time where you are alone all day with only 1 little one.  You’re looking for ways to keep the learning fun and engaging but it can be challenging.  We are here to help. Here’s the scoop on some fantastic learning activities you can try with your little learner. These are designed to be fun, interactive, and perfect for that one-on-one bonding time.

Scavenger Hunts with a Twist

Scavenger hunts aren’t just for big groups. You can create a personalized scavenger hunt that’s tailored to your child’s interests. Maybe they’re obsessed with dinosaurs or space right now? Hide little dino figurines or space-themed items around the house or yard. You can even add a little educational twist, like having them find objects that start with different letters or count how many items they discover.

DIY Science Experiments

Who doesn’t love a good science experiment? You don’t need to be a mad scientist to make this fun. Grab some baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring for a classic volcano eruption. Or, try making slime with cornstarch and water. These hands-on experiments not only teach basic scientific principles but are also a blast to do together. Just be prepared for a little mess!

Stories with a Creative Spin

Storytime is a staple, but let’s spice it up a bit. After reading a book, challenge your child to create their own ending or draw a picture of their favorite part. You can also take turns telling parts of a story and see where your imagination takes you. This not only boosts their creativity but also helps with narrative skills.

Cooking and Baking Adventures

Get those tiny hands involved in the kitchen! Cooking is a fantastic way to teach measurements, following instructions, and even a bit of chemistry. Let them help mix, pour, and decorate. You could even turn it into a mini math lesson by having them count and measure ingredients. Plus, you get to enjoy a tasty treat at the end!

Nature Explorers

If you’ve got a backyard or a nearby park, turn it into your learning playground. Go on nature walks and collect leaves, rocks, or flowers. Use a magnifying glass to inspect your finds up close, and maybe even start a nature journal where your child can draw or write about what they discover over time.

Arts and Crafts Galore

Arts and crafts are always a hit! You can do simple projects like making paper plate animals, painting rocks, or creating a collage with old magazines. Let their creativity run wild. Have materials out so that they can turn to crafting anytime.

Educational Games and Puzzles

There’s a ton of fun to be had with educational games and puzzles. Choose ones that align with their current interests or learning goals. Whether it’s a memory game, a puzzle with letters and numbers, or a board game that teaches strategy, these activities are both entertaining and educational.

Music and Movement

Incorporate music and movement into your day. Have a dance party in the living room, or make up silly songs together. You could also use instruments or household items to create a mini band. Music is not only fun but also great for developing rhythm, coordination, and even early math

Themed Days

Why not have themed days where you focus on a particular topic? For example, “Space Day” could include reading space books, doing a space-themed craft, and watching a space documentary. Themed days are a great way to dive deep into a subject and make learning feel like an adventure.

Explore the World with Virtual Field Trips

If you can’t always get out and about, virtual field trips are a lifesaver. Explore museums, zoos, or even outer space from the comfort of your home. Many institutions offer online tours or educational videos that can spark curiosity and learning.

So there you have it—a whole smorgasbord of fun learning activities you can enjoy with your one and only! The key is to connect with your little one and follow their interests. Have a good time and know that you will cherish this time.