Simple Toddler Activities That Actually Keep Them Busy
- Amanda
- Dec 31, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
If you’re anything like me, you reheat your coffee at least three times until it tastes burnt and are often trying to cook meals while someone is tugging on your leg or hanging out in your arms. Just finding a few minutes of easy to set-up , screen free time is ideal to be able to get a few things done around the house or for myself (so I don't have to start drinking iced coffee in the morning.)
That said, I love the idea of low-effort, easy toddler activities and crafts but sometimes I don't even have the capacity to set them up or think about them. I'm not getting up before my kids to set it up and sometimes at the end of the day, when the kids finally go to bed I'm often resetting the house and using the rest of my energy for some "me time".
So, over the years, I’ve tested a lot of toddler activities. Some lasted 30 seconds. Some made a mess so big I questioned all my life choices. And a few? Absolute keepers.
These are my go-to Amazon finds that consistently buy me 5–20 minutes of independent play—with minimal setup and minimal cleanup.
What I Look for in a “Busy Toddler” Toy
Before we get into the list, here’s my very unscientific filter:
Requires little to no setup
Can be reused (because I’m not crafting every day)
Encourages focus and independence
Doesn’t destroy my house
If it checks those boxes, it stays.
1. Fine Motor Sorting Toys
These are some of my absolute favorites that I can pull out and are ready-to-go. Think peg boards, shape sorters, color matching sets, or anything that involves placing objects into slots or holes.
Why they work:They naturally hold a toddler’s attention and give them a clear “goal,” which keeps them focused longer.
Mom tip:I rotate these every few weeks. Same toy, suddenly feels brand new.
2. Reusable Crafts & Sticker Books
These are a staple in our house! Both of my toddlers can do these without much supervision so I'm always looking for new themes to order.
Why they work:Toddlers love peeling and sticking. The reusability means they can start over again and again.
Best for:
Quiet time
Waiting for dinner
Church
Doctor's office and waiting rooms
Restaurants
Travel days
3. Busy Boards & Quiet Books
Okay, when I first learned about Busy Boards I ordered a few cheap options and when I opened them up I saw that I had to punch out all of the little pieces and attach all of the velcro. Needless to say, this did not happen. I mean I started it, but didn't finish these and gave up on them. Ideally I'd have these on hand for restaurants, car rides, church or anywhere I need a quiet activity. So when I found these ones, I had to jump on them! No assembly required. And that's a big win in my book.
There are actually more that I don't like than I do like so as I find good ones, I'll continue to add them.
Why they work:They feel very important and grown-up to toddlers. Also great for fine motor skill practice without them realizing it’s “learning.”
Reality check: Not all busy boards are created equal. Look for sturdy ones, already preassembled—you’ll know why after week one.
4. Activity Trays (Low-Mess = Big Win)
An activity tray instantly signals, “this is something special.” I love trays with raised edges to keep pieces from migrating across the house. I use it for everything from pom pom activities, to playdough and keeping crayons from rolling off the table.
What we use them for:
Sorting toys
Small puzzles
Keeping small items together
Why they work:Contained play = longer attention span.
5. “Back Pocket” Toys for Busy Days
These are the toys I keep tucked away for:
Rainy afternoons
When a sitter is over
Appointments or errands
Think small, quiet, and easy to grab.
Why they work:Novelty + simplicity = instant engagement.
How I Get More Mileage Out of These Toys
I don’t leave everything out all the time. I rotate toys weekly ( or at least I try too) and only keep a few visible. Less choice = better focus. The toys I choose like the piano floor mat and activity boarsd are also easy to store.
And no, I don’t set these up perfectly. Most days, I hand my toddler the tray and walk away. That counts.
Final Thoughts
These toys aren’t magic. Some days they last five minutes. Some days they buy me more than twenty. Either way, they help create small pockets of calm and opportunity for me to get something done, and that’s a win.
If you’re looking for simple, reusable Amazon finds that actually work in real life, this list is where I’d start.
✨ Save this post for later✨ Check back—I’ll keep updating this with what kept my toddler busy today every week
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