My toddler is always on the move. He never seems to stop from the time he wakes up in the morning. He is always exploring every drawer, every closet, every nook and cranny in our house. Getting him to stay still and involved in an activity can be challenging, but there are a couple of things that will usually work-- some better than others but even a few minutes break for moms can be helpful!
Pour some rice in a big plastic container or bowl. The kind that are rectangle or square work well, and are big enough for your toddler to really get his elbows and arms into. You may also want to do this in the kitchen, or lay a blanket down and put the container on top of it. Then toss in some plastic cups, spoons, and even yogurt containers and let your little one scoop and toss away.
My kids do not like getting their hair brushed so much, but give them the hairbrush, and boy do they all 3 like to brush each other's hair and anyone else that will sit for them. So if you are desperate for even 5 minutes of down time, see if your kids will brush your hair while you sit and breath deeply and remind yourself that you will one day look back on these days and miss them! Really.
Get a small spray bottle and fill with some water. Hand your toddler a sponge and let them spray and wipe smudges off walls, or wipe down a table. Busy little hands love to "help out" around the house.
Sit your kids down with some crayons and paper and envelopes. Tell them to draw a picture for Grandparents, a friend, babysitter, Aunt, etc. They should have fun drawing and putting their letters in the envelopes. A fun address to use is your own-address to daddy and your kids will love watching dad open his surprise mail when it comes.
