Thinking & solving

A bridge for teddy

Use cushions or blocks to solve a tiny pretend travel problem.

8 minutes

What you'll need

Soft toy · Cushions or large blocks

Before you start

Can manipulate large household objects

Best fit: indoors · medium energy · low caregiver effort · low mess

How to play

  1. Place teddy beside a small gap.
  2. Wonder aloud how teddy could cross.
  3. Try your child's idea before offering another.
Make it easier

Place one possible bridge piece nearby.

Standard

Use cushions or blocks to solve a tiny pretend travel problem.

Extend it

Create a second obstacle needing a different solution.

What you might notice

Whether your child tests, revises or combines solutions.

Keep it safe

Keep every piece at floor level and use the bridge for the toy only. Do not let the child stand or climb on cushions or blocks; stay within arm's reach, stop mouthing or throwing, and pack all pieces away.

Why it may be useful

This gives your child room to explore while you add just enough help to keep the puzzle interesting.

moderate

Guided-play evidence is stronger in preschool samples; toddler activities should remain simple and child-led.

Jeong et al. (2021) — Parenting interventions to promote early child development in the first three years of life: A global systematic review and meta-analysis

Weisberg, Hirsh-Pasek and Golinkoff (2016) — Guided Play: Principles and Practices

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