Help Them Think: Attention & Following Directions for 1-Year-Old Toddlers
Help them think: attention & following directions for 1 year old toddlers can fit naturally into everyday play and routines. For a 1-year-old toddler, focus on simple words, gestures, choices, movement, and repetition: model one small idea, repeat it naturally, and follow your child’s interest rather than turning the moment into a test.
For hands-on ways to practice attention & following directions at home, explore Puzzles & Games for related learning materials. You can also browse Early Learning & Preschool to find relevant local or online classes, activities, businesses, lessons, and events.
Quick Answer
Practice listening and carrying out simple one- and two-step actions through play. Start with one familiar example and connect it to something your child can see, hear, touch, move, or do.
Examples to Try
- touch head
- get cup
- clap then sit
- put block in box then close lid
Words You Can Use
- “This is attention & following directions. Look. Can you point/touch? Attention & Following Directions. Let’s do it again.”
- “Look.”
- “Your turn.”
- “More?”
Try It for Five Minutes
Set out 2–3 familiar objects related to attention & following directions. Name each, let the child point/touch/move it, and repeat one short phrase.
- Gather two familiar toys, picture cards, a board book, or stacking cups.
- Choose one focus: touch head, get cup, clap then sit.
- Model it first, then pause for your child to look, touch, move, point, speak, or choose.
- Repeat once or twice and finish while it is still fun.
Make It Easier, Then Build
Use one object, one idea, or one choice and model the first turn. When it feels familiar, add one small change—a second object, a new word, another step, or a different place to try it.
Printable Idea
Matching, sorting, sequencing, count-and-point, or simple puzzle printable for attention & following directions. Keep it simple and use it as a prompt for interaction, not a worksheet that must be completed.
Related Resources
- A short Banabooza activity for Attention & Following Directions
- A hands-on game, book, song, or printable connected to Attention & Following Directions
- A product from Puzzles & Games or a class/activity from Early Learning & Preschool
Keep this page handy as a simple reference for help them think: attention & following directions for 1 year old toddlers and return to one idea whenever it fits your routine.
