The 4 Ways A Toddler Learns Best
Screens are here to stay, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make them work for us when it comes to helping our toddlers learn. With the right approach, screen time can become a powerful teaching tool. Here’s how to make it count by focusing on these 4 key principles:
1. Repetition: Reinforcing Memory
Toddlers retain new vocabulary by dramatic increases when the same content is repeated[1]. If you’ve ever found yourself singing “Baby Shark” on a loop, you already know toddlers thrive on repetition (even if it tests our sanity). Repeating content helps young brains lock in new vocabulary and concepts much better than constantly switching things up. It’s why your toddler asks for the same story over and over - it’s their brain’s way of reinforcing what they’re learning.
Try This:
Choose shows or songs and play them 3-5 times
Keep learning sessions short to 10-15 minutes, the sweet spot for their attention spans
2. Language: Simplifying For Understanding
Toddlers are like tiny sponges, soaking up new words every day. But here’s the trick: they learn best when those words are simple and repetitive. Think about their first words - “mama,” “dada.” Content that sticks to easy, clear language helps them make sense of what they’re hearing.
Try This:
Pick shows or videos with simple sentences and clear, natural speech
Slow, paced talking makes it easier for toddlers to follow along and absorb
3. Imitation: Learning Through Observing Actions
Toddlers can effectively learn new behaviors by observing actions repeatedly on screen[3]. They are master copycats, and that’s a good thing. When they see someone stacking blocks or clapping along to a song on screen, they’re likely to try those actions themselves. Content that shows positive, simple actions can inspire your little one to mimic what they see, helping them develop key skills through play.
Try This:
Shows with realistic, easy-to-copy movements
Characters that model good behavior like sharing, helping, or playing
4. Music: Engaging Rhythm for Language
Music supports the formation of important brain connections that are being established over the first three years of life[4]. In other words, nursery rhymes engage toddlers in way that no other method can. Singing turns words into memorable little chunks, and the rhythm and melody engage parts of their brain that boost language processing. A catchy song isn’t just entertainment; it’s a brain-boosting, language-learning powerhouse.
Try This:
Stick with simple, repetitive tunes that are easy for your toddler to follow
Short songs of 2-3 minutes work best
Conclusion
At WonderfulWorks, we take all this research to heart to create content that’s perfectly tailored for your little one. We combine repetition, language, imitation, and music into a repeating, simple, animated, nursery rhyme. But we don’t stop there with the leading research of our day. Our highest calling is to honor God, and share the good news of Jesus to our toddlers by the best means available.
So next time you turn on a video for your toddler, you’ll know just what to look for to make screen time an enriching experience. And don’t worry, you’re not just hitting “play” - you’re setting up your child for a lifetime of joyful learning.
References
Horst et al. (2011). "Get the Story Straight: Contextual Repetition Promotes Word Learning from Storybooks"
Ota, M., & Skarabela, B. (2016). Reduplicated Words Are Easier to Learn. Language Learning and Development, 12(4), 380–397.
Barr, et al. (2016). "Toddler learning from video: Effect of matched pedagogical cues"
Carlton, E.B. (2000). Learning through music: The support of brain research. Child Care Exchange 133 (May/June): 53–56.