Five Ways to Safely Occupy Your Child When Busy

Life with young children can be very busy. Parents often find themselves juggling mealtimes, school runs, and housework on top of jobs and other life commitments. If you are looking for ideas to keep your child busy while you are taking care of those necessary everyday tasks, here are five tips to make life a little easier.

Utilise the Highchair

You may think of the highchair as simply a place for your child to eat, and then proceed to cover with food. This simple piece of furniture is actually a goldmine for busy parents who need some relief. While you are working on tasks such as paying bills, returning e-mails, or doing the dishes your child can sit in their highchair with a snack, crayons, or even small toys.

You can also create a sensory box full of dried food items such as beans and pasta that your child can explore while sitting.  As the highchair can be moved to any room, you can put the child near you so you can still keep an eye on them while you work (if your child in under 3, they should never be left unattended with food or small objects).

Wear Them

Mothers have carried their children in slings or long cloths for thousands of years. While the act of ‘baby wearing’ has been in and out of fashion through the years, it is back and more popular than ever. Parents all over the world (dads too!) are taking advantage of this easy, no fuss way to transport their children. For busy parents, especially those with young babies, a sling can be a Godsend. Your child can sleep soundly while you clean up around the house, do laundry, and even do your grocery shopping!

Get Artistic

It is never too early to get your child’s creative juices flowing. Art is a fantastic way to occupy your child while you are busy. You can create your own edible finger paints and play dough so you won’t need to worry about your child giving their art a little taste. Purchase a large roll of butcher paper and they can create an endless array of pictures.  If you are worried about mess, lay opened garbage bags on the ground around the makeshift art studio for easy clean-up afterwards.

Play Music

Babies and toddlers love music, and it can be a wonderful tool to keep them entertained, busy, and even relaxed. For toddlers you can put on directional songs that are both fun and interactive such as the ‘Hokey Pokey’, ‘Pat-A-Cake Pat-A-Cake’, and ‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’. If you teach your child the hand motions ahead of time, you will be able to put on the music and let them independently join along. For babies you can play instrumental, classical, or even jazz music which will soothe your child and help them to be calm while you complete your tasks.

Bring Out the Play-mat

For babies who can lift their own heads and look around, a play-mat is a wonderful way to not only keep them busy, but also to strengthen their muscles and coordination. Doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of tummy time a day (Dr. Greene) but this can be extended to 90 minutes over the day as your child reaches the 4-6 month mark. There are many types of activity mats available to purchase in stores, but you can also make your own by placing small toys and soft books on a large blanket. Your baby will love exploring the items on the play mat, and in the process will gain valuable motor skills necessary for their continued development.

This article was written on behalf of the Baby and Toddler Show UK