How to Keep Your Toddler Busy

So you have an important phone call to make, bills to pay, or a work-related activity that needs to be done in peace. Those of us who have toddlers around can find this almost impossible to achieve. Here's an idea for a Toddler Multi-Station that can help you achieve a prolonged interruption-free period without the guilt of having plopped your little one in front of the TV.

What is a toddler multi-station? It is an activity center created by you and your toddler together at the kitchen, dining or recreation room table. In our house we have four chairs at our table so we always have four "stations." The child can move from chair to chair as they wish to enjoy the activity placed in front of them. Having your child participate in the station selections will help ensure longevity of interest and more free time for you.

The prep work. You have selected your stations and have them all set up, now you need to go through the ground rules with your toddler. Explain that you have something important to do and you will need their help. Explain that the stations are a big girl/boy privilege and that you are confident that he will be able to do them all on his own. Walk around the table, explain the stations and answer any questions.

Need ideas? You may think that this idea would work for you and your toddler but you are drawing a blank regarding what you can include. Some ideas for stations are below. They may provide the springboard you need to come up with some that are uniquely your own.

Snack station - We always include a snack station. A healthy snack with dips (if your toddler can be responsible with such things on their own), popcorn, dry cereal, or fruit slices are good choices. Include a beverage like milk and place it on the bottom shelf in the refrigerator for them to get when they are ready to move to this station. My daughter feels like a big girl when she is allowed to open the refrigerator on her own. Provide a baby wipe at the station for a quick clean up when they are done.

Printable station - Track down toddler printables online. A stack of several simple mazes and a pencil with an eraser can be a lot of fun. Connect the dots, color by number, and cut and paste activities are alternatives. Make sure that you anticipate the supplies that they will need and have them available. This will prevent unnecessary interruptions.

Craft station - Provide a bowl of Cheerios and a pipe cleaner for your child to make a necklace or a bracelet. The stiffness of the pipe cleaner is a great alternative to string for little fingers. Explain that when it is full that they can leave it there for your to connect when you are available again.

Play-Doh station - All little kids like playdoh. Provide cookie cutters, clean Popsicle sticks and a wooden dowel to be used as a rolling pin.

Glue station - Provide a glue stick, cut out colored construction paper shapes, strips of tissue paper, cotton balls, and stickers. Encourage them to make a collage on a large piece of paper using all these materials.

Cleanup time. Once you have reunited with your child, admire their work, compliment them on their independence and explain how they helpful they were to you by staying busy. Clean up the stations together. Hang up their artwork. Finish the time with a game or activity together as a reward for their success.