Working from home with a toddler can feel overwhelming. You’re trying to focus on work, but your little one needs attention too. I understand how tough it can be. As a mom of four, I’ve had to find ways to keep my toddlers entertained without feeling guilty about giving them screen time all day.
The good news? Toddlers don’t need to be entertained every second of the day. With the right activities, they can enjoy themselves, build new skills, and even learn to play independently, all while you get your work done. It may take time to build up the stamina if they’re used to screen time, but it’s possible for sure!
Here are 10 simple ideas to keep your toddler happy, busy, and learning while you work.
1. Create a Sensory Play Station
Toddlers love exploring with their hands. Sensory play lets them touch, feel, and discover new things while staying busy. Use items you already have at home:
- Fill a bin with dry rice, pasta, or water and give them cups or spoons to scoop and pour
- Add small toys like cars or animals to make it more fun
This activity keeps their hands busy while stimulating their senses. It’s also a great way to improve their focus and fine motor skills.
2. Involve Them in the Kitchen with a Learning Tower
Toddlers love copying what adults do. A foldable learning tower or toddler stool can let your child safely stand at the counter and “help” you in the kitchen. Give them small, safe tasks, like stirring batter, washing vegetables, or organizing utensils.
This not only keeps them entertained but also helps build self-help skills like following instructions and cleaning up.
3. Encourage Independent Play with an Activity Box
Prepare an activity box filled with toys, puzzles, or books. Rotate the items weekly to keep things exciting. For example:
- Wooden blocks
- Coloring books and crayons
- Stacking cups
Toddlers don’t need fancy toys. Sometimes, simple activities are the most effective in keeping them busy and happy.
4. Use a Play Couch for Hands-On Activities
A play couch is a versatile piece of furniture that toddlers will love. It can be rearranged into forts, tunnels, or climbing structures, allowing your child to explore and create. Add a few cushions or soft toys to make it even more fun.
Place the play couch in your workspace so your toddler feels included while staying entertained. This not only encourages imaginative play but also helps develop their motor skills and creativity, all while you get some work done.
5. Give Them a Wooden Chopper Knife for Pretend Play
Toddlers love pretend play! A wooden chopper knife is a safe and fun tool for little hands. You can give them soft items like playdough or pretend vegetables to “chop.”
This encourages creativity and helps improve hand-eye coordination. Plus, it gives them a sense of accomplishment when they “prepare” their pretend meals.
6. Try Simple Sensory Art Activities
Set up a mini art station with washable markers, crayons, and paper. You can also use playdough or finger paints for mess-free art fun. Sensory art lets them express themselves while improving fine motor skills.
7. Introduce Easy-to-Use Puzzles
Puzzles are excellent for keeping toddlers engaged while helping them develop problem-solving skills. Choose simple, colorful puzzles that match their age. Wooden puzzles with big pieces are a great option.
8. Let Them Play with Interactive Furniture
Interactive furniture is a great way to keep toddlers active and engaged while you're working. Here are some play furniture that encourage movement, creativity, and independent play.
- A climb and swing set allows toddlers to burn off energy indoors while building their strength and coordination
- A slide with an easel combines fun and learning—your child can enjoy sliding down or drawing on the easel
- A balance beam set is perfect for improving balance, coordination, and motor skills. Toddlers can walk across it to strengthen their core and leg muscles
These pieces are multifunctional, durable, and grow with your child, making them an excellent investment. Plus, they keep your toddler entertained while helping develop important physical and creative skills.
9. Incorporate Nature Play with Indoor Gardening
Bring a little bit of nature indoors! Give your toddler a small pot, soil, and seeds to plant their own “garden.” They can water the plants daily and watch them grow. This simple activity teaches responsibility and patience while keeping them entertained.
10. Plan Quiet Time with Books and Soft Toys
Set aside quiet time where your toddler can look at picture books or play with soft toys. Create a cozy space with a blanket and pillow for them to relax. This helps them wind down and enjoy some alone time.
How Kids Can Entertain Themselves
Toddlers can learn to play on their own if we give them the right tools. Activities like puzzles, sensory bins, or pretend play encourage independent learning and exploration. It’s okay if they ask for your attention sometimes—that’s natural! But with practice, they’ll grow in stamina and confidence in entertaining themselves.
Final Thoughts
Balancing work and parenting isn’t easy, but with these simple ideas, you can help your toddler stay entertained while encouraging their growth and independence. High-quality products can also make a big difference in your child’s safety, health and wellbeing.
At Mommy’s Little Helper Co., we design products that make parenting a little easier and help you create meaningful moments with your child.
Have questions or want to explore more tools to support your toddler’s growth? Visit our shop today!
