The short answer
Try rolling or kicking a ball, pretend cooking or feeding a doll, simple puzzles, colour matching, picture-book games, and playful two-step directions. Keep activities brief and responsive. Offer opportunities to try rather than expecting every child to master the same game at the same age.
In this guide · 12 sections
Keep in mind
- Follow your child’s interests and allow plenty of free play.
- Combine movement, pretend play, and simple problem-solving.
- Use milestones as conversation prompts, not a pass-or-fail game.
- Choose safe, age-appropriate materials and supervise play.
Turn movement into play
Try stepping or jumping across a line on a clear, level floor, playing start-and-stop, or copying simple turns and backward steps.
CDC lists jumping with both feet as a milestone by 30 months. Offer a playful chance to try; discuss concerns rather than treating practice as a test.
Play simple ball games
Roll a large soft ball back and forth, kick it over a short distance, or throw it towards a large box.
Match the challenge to your child’s balance and interest, with clear space and an adult nearby.
Use everyday objects for pretend play
Feed a doll, make a box into a car, stir pretend food in an empty bowl, or put toy animals to bed.
Pretending with an object is a CDC 30-month example; a safe large box can become a vehicle or a house without expensive equipment.
Offer small problem-solving challenges
Try a simple shape sorter, a puzzle with a few large pieces, or safe containers with easy-to-open lids.
Leave time to experiment. The aim is trying different approaches rather than finding the answer quickly.
Make two-step directions playful
Try “Get the ball and put it in the basket,” or “Put teddy to bed and bring the blanket.”
Following two-step directions is a CDC milestone by 30 months. If needed, model one step at a time and keep it relaxed.
Explore colours and books without quizzing
Match two colored blocks, look for a red toy car, or search for a cat in a picture book.
CDC includes knowing a colour and naming book pictures by 30 months. Model words naturally, without repeated testing or pressure.
Support play around other children
Your toddler may play alongside peers and sometimes join them; sharing and turn-taking still need adult help.
Offer opportunities at a park, library, or playgroup, while staying nearby to support interactions rather than forcing sharing.
Leave room for free play
Not every activity needs a goal. Allow your child to explore an interest and use safe materials in their own way.
Balls, blocks, books, safe utensils, and boxes may be enough. Check for small parts, sharp edges, cords, batteries, and other hazards.
What can you try today?
Offer one movement game, one pretend activity, and one simple puzzle, such as stepping over a line, feeding a doll, and a large-piece puzzle.
Follow your child’s lead, stop when interest ends, and return to a favorite game another day.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Use age-appropriate materials, remove small parts and other hazards, and supervise movement and peer play.
- Contact your clinician if skills are lost or development concerns persist.
Sources used for this guide
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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