1. If your wee one...

    • Loves Lego, jigsaws or toys that fit together
    • Uses tape, glue or string to stick all kinds of things to each other
    • Wants to stick all the different coloured playdough into one big lump

    They’re not being “naughty” – they’re exploring the connection schema

    Schemas are patterns of repeated behaviours which children engage in. They are a crucial part of development and learning. Here are some ideas can help channel their interest.

  2. 1. Bungee Balloons

    Using rubber bands and some knots you can turn a balloon into a bouncy ball, or hang them so babies can play with them whilst lying on their back.

  3. 2. Fancy Sticks

    You can decorate a stick by wrapping, gluing or taping ribbons, wool, lengths of paper or fabric around it – this could be a magic wand and inspire some imaginative play. Or tie on materials and find ways to move with the loose ends flapping and swirling in the air.

  4. 3. Connecting Bodies

    Suggesting different ways your bodies can connect can be a fun game- arm touching arm, head touching head, knee touching shoulder! Really tune in to your wee one and use this as a chance to practice gentle touch.

  5. 4. Get building!

    Dens are a great way to explore multiple schemas at once – this could enveloping and enclosing as well as connection. They’re also a great way for wee ones to explore connecting items together and solve problems – clothes pegs can be a great way for wee hands to join different bits of cloth.

  6. 5. Knots

    For wee ones, fabric is often an easier way to start tying knots or connecting things together. Scarves or small cloths are great for making a long chain.