Activities are an important part of my child care program.  They are informally structured to meet the needs of each child.  Games and craft projects are designed to be challenging, but within the abilities of the child.  Building blocks and construction toys encourage imagination and creativity, and puzzles teach problem-solving ability, shape and color recognition.  Group activities teach cooperation and sharing, and many games help with counting and number skills.  Cutting, pasting and coloring projects help develop coordination and small muscle control.  Children of all ages spend some time outdoors every day, weather permitting.  Outdoor activities strengthen and develop large muscles.