and then pour some water (no more than half a cup to start) in the tray and let the games begin. You can build upon this play with a few measuring cups, sponges, funnels spoons, and small bowls and of course, water toys.

For toddlers, it’s easier and safer to have them play on the floor than on a chair at the sink.  First place a big towel/sheet on the floor, then fill a plastic container (a dish pan is a great size) about a quarter of the way with water. You can vary with adding food coloring and/or a few squirts of non-toxic dish soap. Give your child bath toys as well as an assortment of plastic kitchen tools such as small cups, bowls, plastic spoons, empty squeeze bottles, sponges and other fun kitchen utensils such as a whisk to make bubbles with the soap.

Kathy Lee is an Infant Toddler Specialist at the Child Care Council of Nassau.

Get Wet Outdoors

You can do all of the indoor water play outdoors placing the plastic container on the grass. Add to your list of materials plastic spray bottles that can be filled with colored water and brushes and plastic pails. A great way to introduce painting with older infants and toddlers is to have them paint with water first. They can paint on paper and then watch as their painting disappears. This also gives them a chance to experiment with the brush by “painting” their arms, legs and face without leaving a mark.