Why Toddlers Love Imitating You

Have you ever noticed how your toddler grabs the broom when you’re sweeping? Or how they pretend to drink coffee just like you do in the morning? As a mom myself, I see this daily, and while it’s adorable, there’s actually a lot of important developmental stuff happening behind the scenes.

Toddlers love imitating us because it’s how they learn about the world. You’re their biggest role model, and copying what you do makes them feel connected, confident, and included.

Let’s break down why your little one is constantly watching your every move and how we can support that natural curiosity with the right tools and toys.

Imitation Is Learning

From the moment our babies become toddlers, they’re busy absorbing everything. This stage is where they start connecting the dots. 

“Oh, Mommy brushes her hair every morning. I want to try too.”

This type of learning is called observational learning, and it’s a big part of early childhood development. By copying your actions, toddlers are learning:

• Motor skills (how to grip, pour, stack, etc.)
  

• Social skills (taking turns, saying please and thank you)
  

• Independence (“I can do it too!”)
  

• Emotional bonding (connecting with you through shared activities)
  

It’s honestly pretty amazing when you think about it. Aside from being their mom, you’re their greatest teacher, too!

The Kitchen Classroom

One of the most common places toddlers love to imitate us is the kitchen. Cooking, baking, and washing dishes are everyday routines that seem like playtime to a child. But honestly, it’s not always easy (or safe!) to have your toddler right under your feet when you're handling hot food or sharp tools.

Thanks to an educational tower (also called a learning tower). This sturdy platform lifts your toddler to counter height so they can safely and securely be part of the action. They can easily help pour pancake batter or rinse veggies. This makes them feel included, and you get peace of mind knowing they’re safe.

Helps with brain development

Imitating you actually helps with brain development. Here’s how:

• Problem-solving skills: They watch how you open jars, stack bowls, or measure ingredients, and then try to figure it out themselves.
  
  

• Language development: When you talk through tasks (“Now we mix it slowly…”), they learn new words in context.
  
  

• Confidence building: Being part of “grown-up” tasks gives them a sense of accomplishment. It’s the start of their independence.

Simple Ways to Encourage Healthy Imitation

Involve Them in Daily Tasks

Let your toddler help with folding laundry, wiping the table, or watering plants. These small actions feel like big responsibilities to them.

Use Child-Sized Tools

Give them mini versions of your everyday items, like a small broom, wooden spoon, or watering can. It helps them feel capable and included.

Create Easy Access

Keep snacks, cups, books, and art supplies within reach. Learning towers and low shelves let them explore without needing to ask for help.

Narrate What You’re Doing

As you go through daily routines, talk out loud: “Now I’m peeling the carrots…” or “Time to put socks in the drawer!” It helps build vocabulary and understanding.

Let Them “Cook” With You

Use an educational tower to safely bring your toddler to counter height. They can help stir, pour, or just watch. It all counts as learning!

Be Patient With the Mess

It won’t be perfect, and that’s okay! Embrace the spills and slow moments. Trying is how they learn.

Give Them Jobs

Simple tasks like sorting socks, matching lids to containers, or feeding the pet give them purpose and boost their confidence.

Model Good Habits

Toddlers copy your behaviours, so show kindness, say thank you, tidy up, and eat healthy. They’re always watching!

Encourage Dress-Up and Role Play

Costumes, pretend kitchens, and doll care stations give them space to act out what they see you do every day.

Invest in Montessori Furniture

Choose open-ended, kid-friendly pieces that support their independence. It could be a learning tower, play gym, or balance beam. Less plastic, more purpose.

Recommended Read: Montessori at Home: What Is It and How to Do It

Ready to Support Your Toddler’s Growth the Montessori Way?

At Mommy’s Little Helper Co., we believe learning starts at home through everyday moments filled with love, curiosity, and independence. That’s why we’ve created a collection of kid-friendly furniture designed to bring your little one closer to what matters most: you.

Each piece is thoughtfully made to help your toddler explore and participate safely and confidently. Browse our collection today and find the perfect piece to support your little one’s big milestones. Shop now.