Figuring out what their bodies can do is another aspect of self. Climbing, running, jumping and throwing all test rapidly developing skills. Tactile experiences support physical discovery—sinking hands into finger paints to paint arms, squishing it in her hands, touching it onto the table. The toddler discovers what she can do with the paint, how touching the table with paint turns it a new color, and discovering the feel and look of it on her body. Toddlers waddle in mud puddles, pour sand over their hands, splash water or mush play dough, all as part of exploratory tactile play.
In exploring their bodies, toddlers attempt actions that appear absurd to adults. A toddler may try to fit her body into a small box or ride on a tiny toy truck, as a way of figuring out their body.
With each action, toddlers figure out their impact on the environment.
By physically defining space and saying no, as well as repeating a task over and over again, the toddler gains mastery and control. This is done in numerous ways.
By being the mommy or daddy and putting the baby doll or animals to sleep, the toddler controls who goes to sleep and when. A toddler pushes a button and watches balls roll around, or sends a car down a wooden ramp repeatedly. Each action shows the toddler their impact and builds feelings of competence.