Keeping Toddler Busy at Home

I suggest keeping a schedule and arranging the space you have in order to accommodate the activities you plan to do.

For example, you may want to create a work space that keeps your 2 yr old within vista. (You really should not leave them completely unattended) Then, plan on working in 30 minute shifts and then taking a 10-minute break to play with your baby, snack time, change diapers or doing potty time. You may want to cook early in the morning or the night before and then just heat food during the day.

To keep your baby entertained, set up "centers" where she can explore, so like a library center, a lego center, a doll center, the craft/coloring center, etc. and then switch these centers every few days so she doesn't get bored.

The more organized YOU are, the smoother things will run. It's not easy, but is do-able!

Good luck!

Hi N. -

I never mastered the how to keep a toddler busy while I took care of whatever it was I needed to take care of. I very unfortunately used the TV as a baby sitter more than I should have. Now, my daughter is 10 and has a TV watching habit I deeply regret. We impose limits, but it turns into a punishment for us, the parents because of the arguing. I'm simplifying the situation, but I just wanted to urge you to NOT make the mistake of turning on the TV to keep your child out of your hair.

Here's the best suggestion I can come up with, since really, a 2 year old isn't likely to get so wrapped up in any activity for a significant length of time. Why not get connected with a co-op babysitting group? You'd really have to be organized, so you'd be all set to sit down & study as soon as your child was situated. And then of course you have to take your turn with the kids. If you're in a playgroup already, there's your resource right there. If you're not, consider joining Mom's Club in your area. You can check online to find your local contact.

I'll be interested to read the other responses. I can't imagine a toddler keeping itself busy & occupied - and safe - while the parent was occupied with something else. I knew some moms whose kids would play by themselves at that age, but not for a great length of time. Really, the only way to keep a 2 or 3 year old safe is to be watching them. I'm sorry, but unless we have nannies or consistent reliable child care, we are kind of booked for these few years until our children start school.

I do wish you all the best & I hope you find a way to get through the training program, or find a good home-based part-time job soon.

Colleen

That is a tough one to answer. I work full time and take care of my 2-yr-old on the weekend. I also wonder how to keep him occupy in a productive way on the weekend. I have to accept the fact that toddlers just don't have that much attention span..at most half an hour and little longer if they are watching T.V. I think you might have to get some babysitting arrangement while you are taking your course or else you might not be able to learn much. Good Luck!

Amazon.com for books on Prodigy & Advanced children. Crystal & Indigo Children books as well. Most of the children born today are advanced.

Be well.

N.