My almost 17 month old daughter basically spends her days playing with diapers, washcloths, plastic containers, and reading books. She very rarely plays with her toys unless we get them out for her, as in the she never pulls them out herself. Is this normal at this age? I try to get her to play with me (build puzzles or blocks), but she would rather do her own thing
She is NORMAL.
She is being inventive/exploring/being self-reliant.
Which is GOOD.
You are lucky.
Let her do her own thing.
THAT Is how a baby/child learns.
They do not 'have to' play with 'toys.'
Babies/kids OFTEN WILL RATHER play with real life actual objects.
Just watch/supervise for safety.
Sounds pretty normal to me. My 15 month old loves a few of her toys, but is also incredibly happy to play with shoes, tupperware, a box, etc. Babies will play with anything you give them and they often learn from the open-ended opportunities that come from playing with whatever they find.
When she starts getting more interested in toys and you're looking for some great new playthings for her, take a look at my Discovery Toys page at http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/karenchao
Oh yeah my daughter was the same way. She liked to play with the tupperware bowl/lids/utensils over her own toys. Guess the odder things are more interesting to them. It's like at Christmas time, they are more interested in the wrapping papper as to the real gift. lol
Your daughter is exhibiting her independence through play. That's awesome. Way to go mom! I wouldn't worry about what she's playing with as long as it's safe and she's entertained. Take advantage of the slight window of "you" time during this developmental phase. As for toys? It's trial and error. I always thought that kids are more interested in mommy and daddy things, i.e. containers, than the bells and whistles attached to some toys on the market.
SO normal!!! Be happy, she sounds like a smart and capable little girl, independent play is not only appropriate at this age but FANTASTIC for you. That's why toddlers don't really need that many toys, they play so well with whatever is around them (boxes, containers, pots and pans, etc.) She'll get to the block and puzzle stage eventually :)
