As a single mom with a full-time job, the last thing I need at the end of a long day is to chase hyped-up toddlers around until bedtime. But during winter, early sunsets and bad weather limit outdoor fun and their primary means of burning through some of that crazy energy. Like most kids, Abby, 3, and Ellie, 2, will find something I don’t want them to do if I don’t give them something to. So it’s up to me to keep them entertained and engaged when we’re stuck inside.
Here are my tried-and-true tips for keeping toddlers active and entertained until spring:
1. Stage a staycation. We spent a day in China, sort of. We watched Chinese-themed cartoons and the girls ran themselves down making up their own Kung Fu moves. Our staycation to the Far East even included an exotic dinner of “Kung Fu noodles and veggies.”
2. Pretend play goes a long way. Mommy/baby role-play is all the rage at my house. As little mommies, they tidy up the play area while I, the baby, get tucked in for a fake nap on the couch. I can relax with my feet up while they put toys away.
3. Let toddlers go techy. Yes, I’m that mom who lets my toddlers use my iFoam, as Abby calls it. Loaded with expert-approved approved apps like Preschool Monkey Lunchbox, it has helped them learn colors, shapes, counting and vocabulary.
4. Get things cooking. Experts agree that most children will eat healthy food when they help make it. Last week, my girls wolfed down mini whole-wheat pizzas that they decorated with fresh veggies and low-fat cheese.
5. Have a dance party. I crank up the volume, and watch my little ones dancey-dance those wiggles right out. What’s more, we all get some much-needed exercise. It’s okay if it’s not exactly children’s music on your favorite playlist. I won’t tell.
6. Think inside the box. No matter what they got from Santa this Christmas, it seemed like the box it came in was more exciting. Want a box that really rocks? Pick up an affordable makedoTM kit-and help them turn found items into a robot or a functioning playhouse.
7. Get crafty. Kids tired of the same old coloring books? A quick visit to Nick Jr. online was a one-stop-shop for seasonal fun, including age-appropriate games, activities, crafts and printables. Just the “Max and Ruby” crafts alone kept us occupied for a whole afternoon.
8. Phone a friend. A visit with a playmate is a welcome distraction and, especially in my case, a chance to commiserate with another adult dealing with the terrible twos.
9. Hit the town. I’m lucky to be surrounded by options for fun, educational, weather-proof adventures. From science museums to art classes, it’s easy to find a fun day-trip with an indoor destination close to home. We like Pretend City in Irvine, California.
10. Sing a Song. Our favorite game is “Mr Clown,” and it’s not as scary as it sounds. It’s a simple song where each player showcases a special trick. Check You Tube for preschool song ideas and refreshers on “Duck Duck Goose” and “Red Rover.”