Quick Setups for Busy Parents
Need something your toddler can do now?
Here are some of my ultra-fast, easy setups to buy a few minutes to do what I need to do. Whether it's switch the laundry or finish a cup of warm coffee.
Toy Rescue (Tape Activity)
Supplies: Tape, toys
Instructions: Tape toys on floor, walls, boxes -- anywhere they can find them and peel the tape off.
Pom-Pom Sorting
Supplies: Pom poms, muffin tin
Instructions:
Dump pom poms into a small bowl, place the muffin tin next to your toddler, and invite them to sort by color. Add spoons or tongs for an extra challenge.
Water Painting
Supplies: Cup of water, paintbrush, construction paper or cardboard
Instructions:
Fill a small cup with water and let your toddler “paint” designs that magically darken the paper. Add shapes or letters for them to trace.
Dot Marker Pages
Supplies: Dot markers, printable sheet or blank paper
Instructions:
Lay out a quick dot marker page and let your toddler fill in the circles or make their own patterns. Zero mess and tons of color.
Match-the-Lids Game
Supplies: Random containers + their lids
Instructions:
Spread out mismatched containers and lids and challenge your toddler to pair them. Make it harder by mixing colors and sizes.
Magnetic Tile Play
Supplies: Magnetic tiles
Instructions:
Place a small pile of tiles in front of your toddler and invite them to build towers as tall as they can, garages for their cards, stables for their animal, houses for the dolls etc...