Elf Tiptoe Walk
What you need
- a soft toy tucked up asleep on a cushion
How to do it
- Tuck a soft toy up asleep on a cushion at one end of the room.
- Whisper to your toddler that you are both quiet elves who must not disturb it (a pointy hat helps, if you have one).
- Hold hands and tiptoe slowly across the room and back, as quietly as you can.
- When you whisper "it's stirring!", freeze still, then tiptoe on when it settles again.
- Tiptoe over at the end and whisper "sleep tight" to the toy.
Why it matters
Moving slowly and quietly takes more control than running, and a whispery game helps a busy body settle down.
What they're learning
- Tiptoe balance
- Walking on tiptoes takes balance and strong little feet.
- Slowing down
- Choosing to move slowly and quietly is real control over their own body.
- Quiet voice
- Whispering on purpose shows them the difference between loud and quiet.
What to look for
Watch for them lifting their heels and slowing right down on their own.
A tip
It works well as a wind-down at the end of a busy day, with the big light down low.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: carry them on your hip and tiptoe together
Harder: tiptoe along a line of tape without stepping off
