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When it comes to engaging toddlers, keep it simple! Put away those toys that light up and make noise and introduce basics like containers and lids, washing and wiping things with rags, sweeping, and water play. These are the things that allow children to engage deeply and encourage their creativity, focus, and persistence.

This activity is so simple that it doesn’t feel quite right to even call it an “activity,” but it’s shockingly engaging and can be scaffolded further. Tweeze the seeds and COUNT them. Tweeze the seeds and then examine them with a magnifying glass. Plant the seeds. Do some brainstorming about what other fruits and vegetables have seeds! Conduct a seed investigation. What else can you think of?

Bell pepper seeds and ribs and a pair of tweezers is all you really need for this simple activity.

Save the seeds, allow them to dry, and then plant them! Grow your own peppers.