If you have a toddler, you know the daily question is always, “what are we doing today?” Lately, I’ve been leaning into simple workbook-style activities that are easy to set up but still feel fun and new for her every time. These are the kinds of activities that keep her engaged, help build important early skills, and don’t require a ton of prep on my end!
Here is the link to my 52 Workbook Activities Guide (workbook focused). I also have an 8 Week Activity Guide (list of themed activities to do at home/outside). I also made matching flashcards for Weeks 1-4 and Weeks 5-8!
Here are the links to the 3 main supplies I use – other than colored markers!
- Sketchbook – It doesn’t bleed through even with sharpie or markers.
- Dot Markers – Use this for color, number or letter recognition. There is so much you can do with these markers!
- Dot Stickers – Use this for color recognition and creative crafting. My toddler loves them!
1. Monster Hair Cutting Activity
This is a fun way to practice scissor skills! I drew a simple monster and added a large cut out of “hair” at the top. The goal is for your toddler to cut the hair without cutting all the way through. Leave about an inch at the top for glueing.
What it works on:
- Hand strength
- Scissor control
- Focus and coordination
2. Sprinkle Ice Cream Craft
This activity is always a hit because it’s colorful and creative.
I drew a large ice cream cone with a scoop on top, then cut out small pieces of colored construction paper. She glued them on as “sprinkles.”
What it works on:
- Fine motor skills
- Hand-eye coordination
- Creativity
Tip: Pre-cut the pieces to make it easier and less overwhelming.
3. Flower Shape Tracing
This combines tracing with shape recognition.
I drew flowers and added dotted shapes on each one. She traced over the shapes while identifying them.
What it works on:
- Pre-writing skills
- Shape recognition
- Pencil control
Tip: Use thicker dotted lines for younger toddlers.
4. Shape Tracing + Connect-the-Dots
This is a slightly more advanced version of tracing.
I created three columns:
- Left: shapes (triangle, square, circle, rectangle)
- Middle: tracing
- Right: connect-the-dots
What it works on:
- Shape recognition
- Sequencing
- Early problem-solving
Tip: Keep dot spacing close for beginners.
5. Up vs. Down Arrow Activity
This one introduces early direction concepts in a fun way.
At the top, I made a color-coded key:
- Up arrow = one color
- Down arrow = another color
Then I scattered arrows across the page for her to match and color.
What it works on:
- Directional awareness
- Following instructions
- Color matching
You don’t need complicated setups or expensive materials to keep your toddler learning. These simple workbook-style activities are easy to repeat, adapt, and rotate throughout the week.
If your toddler loves structure but still wants variety, this approach is a great balance of both!
