If you’re looking for simple ways to keep your toddler engaged while building focus, these workbook-style activities are a perfect place to start. They’re creative, hands-on, and a great way to introduce colors, shapes, letters, and numbers—without needing new toys.
We’ve added these to our weekly rhythm at home, and I’ve noticed such a difference in my toddler’s ability to sit, focus, and complete a task. These quick, low-prep ideas are perfect for slow mornings or quiet afternoons.
If you’re looking for even more structured activities, check out my my 8 week activity guide. I also made matching flashcards for weeks 1-4 and weeks 5-8!
It’s full of themed weeks, supply lists, and daily ideas you can use at home—no outings or screen time needed!
Here’s a peek at six fun and easy workbook activities we’ve been loving lately:
1. Scoop Your Name Craft
Description:
I drew an ice cream cone at the bottom of the paper and circle scoops above it, each one in a different color and labeled with a letter from her name. She matched and glued each scoop on top of the cone—great for early literacy and color recognition.
Supplies Needed:
- Construction paper or cardstock
- Markers
- Scissors
- Glue stick
Skills It Challenges:
- Letter and number recognition
- Color identification
- Fine motor skills
- Matching
- Name recognition
2. Dot the Number Twos
Description:
I drew a large number 2 that almost filled the whole page, then wrote smaller numbers one through four – scattered inside. My toddler used a dot marker to find and stamp all the number twos.
Supplies Needed:
- Markers
- Dot markers or dot stickers
Skills It Challenges:
- Number recognition
- Visual scanning
- Focus and concentration
- Fine motor control
3. Apple Shape Match
Description:
I drew a tree and cut out simple shapes, circles, triangles, and squares. She matched and glued the cutouts on top of the shapes on the tree.
Supplies Needed:
- Paper or construction paper
- Markers
- Scissors
- Glue stick
Skills It Challenges:
- Shape recognition
- Matching
- Fine motor skills
- Visual perception
4. Find and Dot the A’s
Description:
Using a mix of letters A, B, and C, I had her find and dot all the A’s. I let her choose her dot marker, which gave her a little independence and made it more fun.
Supplies Needed:
- Markers
- Dot markers
Skills It Challenges:
- Letter recognition
- Visual discrimination
- Independence and choice
- Focus and patience
5. Pepperoni Pizza Craft
Description:
I drew a simple pizza slice and gave her red paper circles to glue on as pepperoni. You can also use dot markers or stickers for a quicker version.
Supplies Needed:
- Paper
- Markers
- Red paper circles or dot stickers
- Glue stick (if using cutouts)
Skills It Challenges:
- One-to-one correspondence
- Creative play
- Fine motor skills
- Color recognition
These activities don’t require fancy supplies—just paper, markers, scissors, glue, and dot markers or stickers. And if you’re ready for more easy-to-follow structure, be sure to grab the 8-Week Toddler Activity Guide here.
Because learning through play doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be consistent.
Want more toddler learning ideas like these? Be sure to check back weekly and follow me on Instagram for more!