Toy reach challenge
1–2 yearsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Favorite toy
Place a favorite toy just slightly out of your child's easy reach while they're sitting or standing. They'll need to stretch, scoot, or take a step to get it. Stay close and say can you reach it or the toy is over there, but let them work to retrieve it. When they succeed, acknowledge their effort with you got it.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Place a favorite toy just slightly out of your child's easy reach while they're sitting or standing. They'll need to stretch, scoot, or take a step to get it. Stay close and say can you reach it or the toy is over there, but let them work to retrieve it. When they succeed, acknowledge their effort with you got it.
Why It Works
This activity provides a physical problem to solve with a rewarding outcome. The brief challenge of reaching for something just beyond easy grasp teaches persistence within your child's capabilities. Resilience research shows that protective factors include problem-solving skills developed through manageable challenges, with supportive relationships providing the safety needed for healthy risk-taking (Masten & Motti-Stefanidi, 2020).
Tips for Parents
Keep the toy close enough that your child can succeed with some effort. This isn't about real frustration.
If your child struggles for more than 10-15 seconds, move the toy slightly closer or offer a hint like you can scoot closer.
Vary the challenge based on your child's abilities. Some days may need easier reach, other days can be slightly harder.
Materials Needed
Favorite toy
Learning Methods
Hands-On ExplorationLanguage-Rich Environment
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