We’ve all been in that situation—whether it was a lively Saturday night or waking up with a pesky cold that has zapped your energy. As a mom expecting baby number two, I find it challenging to muster the energy to chase after my spirited 15-month-old. Ideally, I’d love to let her binge-watch her favorite shows, but at this age, she’s not one to sit still for long.
In such moments of exhaustion, I’ve devised some delightfully lazy ways to keep even the most energetic toddlers occupied. The secret? With a little creativity in naming these activities, you can feel like a superstar parent instead of a tired one. Here’s a list of engaging activities for toddlers when you’re barely hanging on:
1. Mini Movie Marathon
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
There’s nothing that captivates my daughter quite like watching videos of herself on my phone. Now that she’s figured out how to pause and swipe, I’ve added some upbeat Elmo tunes to the mix. Pediatricians may advise limiting screen time for kids under 2, but a quick 10 minutes (or sometimes 30) can be harmless fun.
2. Treasure Hunt with Trash
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Despite spending a fortune on a playroom, my child would rather explore the wonders of garbage. She adores rummaging through scraps, tossing items about, and even sneaking a nibble here and there. All you need is an empty tissue box filled with crumpled paper. If you’re feeling particularly lazy, just let her dig through your bag! Just remember to keep an eye out for any choking hazards.
3. Crumb Feasting
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
When you’re craving a moment of peace with your greasy pizza or disco fries, try this simple game. Tear a piece of bread or a chip into tiny bits and scatter them on your child’s high chair tray. Watch as they take their sweet time savoring every crumb. Repeat as needed for maximum relaxation.
4. Laundry Fun
Estimated Time: 3-5 minutes
Why put away clothes when they can become a source of entertainment? Leave a laundry basket out or open a drawer filled with clothes and let your child explore. Just be sure to supervise from a comfortably reclined position to avoid any accidents with closing drawers.
5. The Ultimate Babysitter
Time: As long as your budget allows!
Ever felt like you’d pay anything for a few extra hours of sleep? This is where hiring a babysitter comes in handy. Don’t hesitate to call in reinforcements for that post-party recovery. Aim for someone who’s not likely to share your Sunday morning state, allowing you to rest easy while they entertain your little one.
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In summary, when energy is low, these engaging and easy activities can keep your little ones entertained while you catch a much-needed break. Embrace the creativity and don’t feel guilty—after all, parenting is about finding innovative solutions!
Keyphrase: toddler entertainment ideas
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