How to Entertain a Toddler

Toddler are full of energy, and sometimes it can be hard to keep up with their pace. Here are a few ideas for entertaining a toddler.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Non-toxic clay or play-dough
• chunky crayons
• construction paper
• Non-toxic glue sticks

1. 

   Find a place in your house where you can allow crafts to be made and where they can easily be cleaned up. Ideally you will have a small table and chair for your child. Set up the following items:
   
   ~ Multiple wads of colorful clay or play-dough
   ~ Chunky crayons
   ~ Colorful construction paper
   ~ Glue sticks

2. 

   Demonstrate to your child how to use the materials. Tear the construction paper and use the torn pieces to make a picture of a sun, or a fish...something simple, on another piece of paper. Use the crayons to color in the blank areas of the page. Show your child how to push and pull the clay to make a shape.

3. 

   Finally, after you have shown your child what to do, allow them to be as creative as they please. Even if they just tear paper and glue it to the table, your toddler will be entertained and happy. You can always clean up after craft time is finished and this will give you a much needed break.
   
   Pull up a chair or find a comfortable spot next to you child while they work and read a good book. You will be right there if your child needs you, yet you can have a moment to relax.

[dlcass]

on 1/14/2009 This is a great project for entertaining a toddler. Full of fun sounds (paper tearing), sights (colorful paper and crayons) and things to feel (texture of paper, sticky glue, waxy crayons). Super!