Spice Smell Jars for Toddlers

5-6 small jars with lids

Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon

Vanilla extract dabbed on a cotton ball

Dried mint leaves

Cocoa powder

Lemon zest

Dried lavender (optional)

Choose five or six strong-smelling kitchen ingredients.

Place a small amount of each in its own jar and poke holes in the lid so scent escapes safely.

Sit with your toddler and open one jar at a time, holding it near their nose.

Name and describe the scent: "This is cinnamon — it smells warm and sweet, like cookies!"

Watch their facial reactions carefully — scrunched nose? Big smile? That's communication.

Ask, "Do you like that one?" and wait for their response.

Let your toddler hold the jars, sniff freely, and show you which ones they prefer.

Smell is the sense most directly linked to memory. These early scent experiences build strong neural connections.

Avoid peppermint oil or anything with menthol — stick to mild, food-grade ingredients for toddlers.

If your toddler has words, they may start to label scents: "Cookie!" for cinnamon is a common one.

Turn it into a matching game for older toddlers — can they match the smell jar to the actual food item?

Refresh the jars every few days as the scents fade. Store sealed between uses.