Simple Choice Game for Toddlers

Any two items your toddler can choose between — snacks, toys, shirts, books, cups

At snack time, hold up two options: "Apple or banana? Which one?"

Hold items where toddler can clearly see both. Name each one as you raise it.

Wait patiently. Accept pointing, reaching, looking, or any sound as a valid choice.

Name their choice: "Banana! You chose the banana. Here you go."

Repeat throughout the day: clothes, toys, books, activities.

Model the word: "Can you say banana? Ba-na-na."

If they grab both, name them: "You want BOTH! Apple AND banana!"

Aim for 5-6 choice moments across the day.

Offering choices is one of the simplest ways to encourage communication. Your toddler has to process two words, compare, and then express a preference. That's a lot of brain work packed into a 5-second interaction.

Start with two choices only. Three or more is overwhelming for a 1-year-old. Two is perfect — it's a clear this-or-that.

If your toddler consistently points, try holding the items behind your back and just saying the words. This pushes them toward verbal expression rather than just pointing.

Choices also reduce tantrums. A toddler who gets to choose the red cup instead of being handed the blue one feels respected and in control.