Toddler play is about mastering separation and figuring out emotions. As the toddler ventures further out on their own, they need to know they can count on their caregiver being available to them when needed. Competency develops only if they develop trust in their parent or caregiver as a secure base. By learning that leaving is only temporary, and trusting that the caregiver always returns, the toddler feels secure. Games such as peek-a-boo, hide-and-seek, or hiding and finding toys all reinforce that what goes away, comes back.