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Toddler Games: Hop, Wiggle & Roll

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Wiggle While You Work

No one's suggesting you trick your child into whitewashing a fence, but we do think Tom Sawyer was on to something. Most toddlers will jump at the chance to help out, and with just a little planning, you can offer a bevy of fun movement activities--while introducing him to the wonderful world of chores.

Make a Match As you unload them from the dryer, split pairs of clean socks into two baskets. Place the baskets on opposite sides of the room. Then, while you fold the rest of the laundry, have your child grab a sock from one, race to the other to find its mate, and dash the pair back to you.

Flower Power Give him a small watering can and let your little helper soak as many backyard plants as he can before running to the hose for a refill.

Do the Twist Teach your child to dry himself off after a bath: instead of rubbing the towel against him, hold it steady and let him twist and dance against it until he's dry.

Swept Away Maybe it's the satisfaction of seeing a big pile of dirt, or maybe it's simply a natural desire to help--whatever the reason, most toddlers are crazy about sweeping, so give yours a diminutive broom or push mop and a dustpan. He'll have a great time using it, and your floor might even get clean in the process.

Dress for Success Lay out your child's clothes or pajamas, put on a favorite song, and challenge him to dress himself by tune's end. To up his odds of succeeding, omit any serious clothing bugaboos (like socks).