Toddlers enjoy music and dancing, so use these activities to teach them about opposites. Put on dance music and have toddlers stand in front of you. Let them free dance for a few minutes, then start giving dancing directions that include opposites. For instance, "jump to the front!" and "jump to the back!" You can also have toddlers get down on the ground, jump in the air and move from side to side. Demonstrate each direction you give.
Use objects around your classroom to teach toddlers about opposites. Read books and talk about what opposites are. Once toddlers have a basic understanding, choose an object in the room. Ask toddlers to describe it. For instance, pick up a small block and ask children if it's big or small. Once they say that it's small, ask them to look for something in the room that's big. You can also bring in fruits and vegetables. Ask children to touch them to feel whether they're hard or soft, then sort them into "big" and "small" piles.
Finger games can be played while toddlers are sitting quietly, but they still allow children to be active so they won't get fidgety. Have children place their hands in their laps, then make up a story using your hands. Create characters for each of your fingers and have them move around. For instance, make your finger be birds. Have them fly up in the air, then down to your lap. They can walk slowly on the ground, then walk very fast. Have toddlers mimic your moves.
"Simon Says" helps toddlers learn about opposites and listening skills while also being active and having an enjoyable time. Stand in front of the group and give a direction such as, "Simon says get down low." Once toddlers have gotten down on the ground, give the opposite direction, such as, "Simon says get up high." Children should stand up or jump in the air. Continue this game with different opposites directions. Children must listen closely, because they must be still whenever you don't start a direction with "Simon says."