Play Menu for Dads — 21 Physical Connection Activities for Toddlers and Young Children

Play Menu for Dads: 21 Physical Connection Activities for Toddlers and Young Children

Ten minutes, stuff from around the house, just dad.

The Play Menu for Dads is a collection of 21 simple physical activities for fathers of children aged 18 months to 3 years. Each activity takes less than ten minutes, uses everyday household items, and builds the kind of calm, confident connection that benefits the whole family.

What is inside

• 21 physical connection activities: Includes clear instructions, suggested words to use, and the science behind why each activity works.
• Read the room guide: Matches your child's behaviour right now to the activity their nervous system actually needs.
• Play signal guide: Helps you know exactly when to keep going, slow down, or stop.
• The Evidence Base: Read the Research Study on Rough and Tumble Play here

Why the dad connection matters

Children often crave a specific type of rugged, high energy interaction that fathers are naturally built to provide. This kind of play is essential for a child's development, helping them understand their own physical strength and how to manage big emotions.

• Building safe boundaries: When you engage in rough and tumble play and set firm limits, you are teaching your child about safe risk.
• Reducing aggression: Research shows that children who play roughly with a father who sets clear boundaries actually become less aggressive in every day life.
• Learning social limits: By playing in this way, children learn the boundaries of their own behaviour, which is a key skill for stopping the snatching and pushing we often see in kindergarten.
• Brain development: This type of play is linked to the development of the frontal lobe, which is the part of the brain responsible for self regulation.

The science of co regulation

The firm, deep pressure of a bear hug or the challenge of a shifting push provides the heavy work a child’s nervous system needs to feel calm and secure. Rough and tumble play is a fundamental brain process that helps children distinguish between playful interaction and genuine aggression. It is a fast way to help a child regulate their emotions after a big day.

Because this play only continues if both people are happy, children must learn to modulate their actions to maintain your enjoyment, even in the heat of the moment.

A healthy break for the whole family

This menu gives dads a clear, confident way to lead play, which allows mums the space they need for healthy separation. It builds a unique bond that is grounded in trust, strength, and shared joy.

Who this is for

• The dad: Who wants a clear, confident role in the daily routine.
• The mum: Who wants to help their partner build their connection and confidence.
• The professional: Educators, occupational therapists, or developmental educators who want a practical, evidence based tool to recommend to families.

Format: Instant digital download, PDF, works on any device.

Read the Research Study on Rough and Tumble Play here