What We're Using for Tot Schooling/Preschool

My son is 3 and has definitely shown an interest in preschool and learning. I wanted to encourage that love of learning by incorporating educational activities we can do throughout the week. Of course, he is learning primarily through books and play but I thought throwing in a few other things couldn’t hurt. We’re not going to be doing anything too vigorous.

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So the foundation of our preschool will be through play. I love the Rainy Day Toddler Activity book and the Outdoor Toddler Activity book. I pick a few activities for the week, get the materials that I need, and set them up.

We rotate between a few different parks each week. Just to keep things fun and interesting.

We commit to at least one nature walk a week. We have these nature walk scavenger hunt cards. It gives him something to look forward to on our walks.

He’s really been showing an interest in puzzles so we picked up a few floor puzzles with the giant puzzle pieces. We also picked up the 24 puzzle packs from Dollar Tree and he loves doing them by himself. He hasn’t been able to finish a full puzzle by himself yet but he is so determined.

The Learning Resources puzzles and the puzzles by Melissa and Doug are our favorites.

The Brain Quest cards are another favorite of ours. They start a conversation between us and what’s going on in the pictures. I have used these with all of my kids and I like to keep a set in the car.

For some sit-down activities, we enjoy lacing beads, painting, and our Smart Skill Workbooks. These workbooks focus on cutting, tracing lines, and they involve a lot of conversation and using stickers. Toddlers love stickers!

Last but least, BOOKS! We love reading in our household! We visit the library at least once a week and spend tons of time reading different books. I have a few children’s book talks on my blog as well as explain how you can foster a love for reading with your little one.

We did purchase a preschool curriculum but I wanted to spend some time with it before letting you know how we like it.

A lot of these things that I’m doing with my 3-year-old are also doable with my 18-month-old. They’re practically inseparable and we try to include her in everything within reason.

Disclaimer: You do NOT need fancy toys and gadgets to homeschool your toddler. A library card and some outside time are all you really need. Don’t underestimate the power of Dollar Tree either! They have tons of great workbooks, books, and flashcards for your little one.

I have chosen to personally invest in some things because my oldest has either used it and I know I’ll use a lot of this stuff again with my youngest. So everything will be well-loved and used.

If you want some fun sensory play to do with your toddler, check out my post here.

Related posts:

Activities to Keep Your Toddler Busy

Activities for Kids on the Go

Children's Book Talk: 005


Preschool Busy Book



love & light,

Jalesa