Lately it seems like everything in everyone's life is spread too thin. Money, time and energy are in short supply. It also seems like toddlers have not yet read the memo. They are still running around and full of energy. Whether you need a few minutes to finish folding the laundry or when you just want to spend some precious one-on-one with your little one, here is an idea for you:
- Read a book. You may be tired of listening to the same story about the same bear, but your child isn't. The familiarity is reassuring to them and the repetition helps them develop early skills necessary for reading.
- Teach them a new song. Make up hand gestures and get silly. This is a great one for when your hands are busy but you can still engage them verbally. Dinner need cooking? Pick an old stand-by song to keep them near you and out of trouble.
- Go to the park. This sounds cliche, but it is just as fun today as it was when you were a kid. Here is a link to a site from the City of Brentwood that lists the parks and their particular amenities. http://www.ci.brentwood.ca.us/department/pr/cob_par/parks/park_matrix.cfm Check out the water features, teach your kid to play a sport or ride their bike. This is an oldie, but definitely a goodie!
- Teach them to cook. It may take twice as long to cook dinner this way, but it is surprisingly fun. After chopping up the vegetables have your child put them into the salad or into the pan to cook. This is a great way to get them involved in meals. You'll be surprised how much more adventurous they become as far as trying new foods too. Just be careful they don't get hurt and always have them wash their hands first.
- Craft time. Many mothers cringe at the very thought of craft time. It doesn't have to be elaborate or messy. Put your child in a high chair or booster seat and set them up with paper and crayons or water colors or playdough. Some kids like to use safety scissors and cut paper into bits also. Have them help with the clean-up afterwards and before you know it craft time will be fifteen minutes of welcome quiet time.
These are just a few of the many ways you can entertain your child and avoid boredom messes or other meltdowns. Try a few and send me your ideas on how to keep toddlers happy. What has worked in your life and what hasn't? Let me know!
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