HOW TO KEEP TODDLER BUSY WHILE MOMMY’S BUSY

 HOW TO KEEP TODDLER BUSY

Finding something to keep toddler busy without a screen always feels good!

we often find times where we need to get things done, but our toddlers or little ones want to be held. Attached to mommy’s hips no matter what she needs to get done or your toddler is happy while you are working on dinner or cleaning. But, they are getting into mischief coloring on the walls or getting into food in the pantry.

Hopefully this post will give you some quick ideas to get your toddler entertained just long enough for you to tidy up the living room, cook dinner, or get some focused work done.

WHY IS TODDLER SO BUSY?

Toddler’s are busy because they are learning. They learn through exploration. So, it makes sense that if you don’t give them something to do they will get into mischief.

Toddler Sensory Bins:

There are tons of tips below for keeping your toddler entertained. But, one of my favorite is toddler sensory bins.

Sensory bins are easy to put together with large bins, colored rice, kinetic sand, scoops, and toys. They will keep your toddler entertained for ages and you can easily switch out the toys each time they play with them or keep different themed bins ready to go.

HOW DO ENTERTAIN THE TODDLER ALL DAY?

It may feel like your toddler needs to be entertained all day, which can be frustrating. Especially during meal time or if you have to work from home.

Whenever possible it’s great to keep your toddler engaged and learning, even when your busy.

Here are some non-screen toddler entertainment ideas:

Toy Swap– Keep small toy bins hidden in a cupboard or the garage and pull them out to keep your toddler busy.Just leave them there when they aren’t looking and let them discover it… then get to work!

Food– Sit your toddler down in a high chair or at the table if they will stay with some breakfast or lunch. LET them get messy with yogurt, spaghetti noodles, or cereal and milk. They might need a bath afterwards, but this will give you 30 minutes-1 hour to get something done.

Art– Same idea as food. Put your toddler in a high chair with something they can safely make art with. Some non-toxic finger paints or toddler friendly crayons.

Music and Stories– Toddler  get entranced with it, usually dancing around the living room for a good 30 minutes while I get a few things done.

Go Outdoors– Get a playhouse, water table, or sandbox for your kids to play with outside. This is a great place to go when I need to get some work done for my home business. Toddler is contained in the fenced in yard and it is a nice refresher to work for a while outdoors.

Sorting– Give your toddler some different color items to sort into the same color cups. Toddlers love learning activities like this.

Dress Up– Keep a dress up chest and get it out when you need to get things done. Your toddler will love trying on different clothes and getting things out of the chest.

Pots and Pans– If you are trying to cook in the kitchen get some pots, pans, and spoons out for your toddler. They will love making music with them and being close to mom at the same time.

Large Puzzles– Buy some large puzzles and matching games for your toddler to play with in a pinch.

On-the-go bags– Put together some on-the-go bags for your toddler to play with while travelling or at a doctors appointment. You can include crayons, paper, or toys to keep them busy.