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Parenting to Young Children

How to Keep Toddlers Busy When You Have to Get Crap Done

April 4, 2023 by KT Leave a Comment

How to Keep Kids Busy When You are Busy and need to get things done

Are you looking to keep your toddlers and kids busy at home while you work from home– or just need a few minutes to yourself to just get crap done.

Here’s a big list of things you can do with your toddlers to keep them busy indoors without tv or screens that will keep their attention on toys, activities, and fun instead of you!

Here’s how to keep your toddlers busy at home while you get crap done with so many fun kid activities!

Big ‘Ol Box

A box is so many things and can keep toddlers and kids busy forever!

Yep. What toddler can resist a gigantic box?

Just grab markers, crayons, scissors, construction paper, glue, or nothing at all, and see what amazing things can come out of a box.

That’s it, easy right?

My kids love boxes of all shapes and sizes for creative play and self-play! I don’t have to get involved at all with box play!

If you have a young toddler, you can just throw them in the box too with crayons or whatever, so they won’t escape!

Just save those diaper boxes and random boxes for days you really need a break!

Big Paper Roll and Markers

There’s nothing like laying a huge roll of canvas paper on the floor with markers, crayons, etc. to invite creativity.

I got a big paper roll at IKEA for cheap, but you can score a long paper roll at Michael’s or even Amazon if you are looking for it at your doorstep.

I also sometimes will save the big brown paper from our packages and will have my kids’ color on that as well and it can always double as wrapping paper for gift wrap as well!

You can also just do big poster boards with crayons and/or markers as well, but the big paper rolls definitely last the longest and you can just roll it up for another day!

Craft Kits

Prepared craft kits are great when you need to get crap done.

Just lay the prepared craft down and let the kids get to work!

I love Alex Toys craft kits, especially the big busy box! There are a few different crafts, and a lot of them are individually packaged, so you can just pull one out for your kids! Some are super simple too, and perfect for toddlers!

You can also find prepared craft kits for kids at Michaels and other art stores! If you go a few days before a holiday or a couple of days after, you can usually find great deals on craft kits at Michaels as well! I usually try to scoop them up on clearance!

You can also make your own craft kits when you have time and then stash them away for a rainy day.

My kids usually do better with crafts when they have a kit and have some direction (and it’s less messy usually) than just free-flowing the art projects, but everyone is different.

Magnetic Tiles

Magnetic Tiles are hands down my (and my kids, of course) favorite toy!

If I could pick just one toy for my kids, this would be it!

They play with them every day, and usually for a while too! There’s so much to do with them– and engage both my 2.5 and 5-year-old!

Magna tiles can get a little pricey, we actually don’t have any of the original brands, but we do have a few knocks that work just as well!

We have Picasso tiles and PlayMags and another random brand. I like the PlayMags a tad better if they are the same price, but Picasso tiles and other brands are fine too! The different brands also work fine together, I think as long as they look like they will work together, they will.

Note: I did try to get another set to add to my collection and totally didn’t pay attention and got a “mini” tile. The picture made it look like the real size, but they were tiny, so just double-check to make sure you don’t make my mistake!

Magnetic tiles are definitely my favorite toy and perfect for days that I’m exhausted and need to get things done because they get hours of play with them!

Playdough

Playdough is one of those activities that I always pull out when I need an extra few minutes to cook dinner, wash dinner, or just need a minute of quietness.

I usually opt for the easy option of store-bought play dough with some tools to go with it, however, you can also make play dough too.

I’ve had a few Pinterest fails when it came to homemade playdough, but I know many people make it with no problems! Even better, you get an activity making it and then an activity with playing with it!

I just hope you have a little more luck with finding a great homemade playdough recipe– mine always comes out too sticky and messy! (I’ll link when I find a good one though!)

Playdough is such a fun and easy activity for indoor play. Make sure to tuck it away and use it on days you really need it to make playdough more fun.

Marshmallow Building

Depending on the age, you may want to consider marshmallow building! Throw some marshmallows down with toothpicks (if they can handle it) or spaghetti pieces, and have them get to work!

You may need to build a square or something to get their creative juices flowing, but my kids loved the freedom to build and play with food. They would also eat while they played, which kept them extra busy!

I love laying this activity out on the dining room table when I need to work on the computer next to them or while I’m cooking dinner!

You can find more about marshmallow building from my another post by me here.

Busy Boxes

Dinosaur Dig Busy Box for Toddlers

Busy Boxes is the only thing on the list I don’t do super frequently. I’m just too lazy to prepare busy boxes and I’m just not that creative. Plus, my kids just don’t keep activities for too long, plus adding sand and rice can sometimes get messy in my house.

However, you can throw whatever in a box and hand it out and the idea is that they keep busy with whatever toys or activities are in the box.

I will sometimes take a clear tub and collect all the “crap” we get from birthday parties, kid events, Halloween, etc. and then give that to them instead of just tossing it all in the trash. Sometimes the small toys can keep them busy for a minute, and then when there’s a huge collection of them, it makes it a little bit more interesting.

There are so many things you can do with busy boxes to keep it interesting.

There are now more store-bought Busy Boxes too so you can always buy a busy box as well if you don’t feel like making anything.

Forts

Forts are a great way to keep kids busy because they may not want to leave their fort when it’s built. Word to the wise though, make that fort a steady thing or you will be constantly be rebuilding.

You can also place a tent indoors and let them play in it, or even just throw a few blankets over the crib and let them play.

I think sometimes it’s the novelty of the fort and tent, and the construction style. You can always change it up to make it somewhat new and fun too.

I *sometimes* removed the cushions from the couch to make it more fun and keep their attention longer. Gasp!

Silly Bath Tub Play

I am doing this currently as I write this post! My boys (2.5 and 5) are in a bath with LOTS of bubbles, their legos, and with their stuffed animals too! I’m just sitting here on the floor next to them as they have fun!

My kids love taking a daytime bath because it’s just so silly and I will add toys in there to keep their attention longer!

You can just do bubbles, legos, toys, or really whatever you want. You can even do a bath without even adding water– just toys!

I like to add toys because they clean they also get clean in the water and it’s nice to get all those germs off everything!

Also, you save yourself from doing bathtime later on in the day!

Spark Sink/Water Play

My son could stand in front of the sink forever and play with the water!

So just grab a tub and fill with water– it’s even better when it’s nice out so you can do this activity outside!

We also love the Spark Kitchen Sink because it has a REAL WORKING FAUCET.

Just be forewarned though, it doesn’t last terribly long. The pump actually lasted longer for us than others, but it won’t last forever. I think it lasted around a year for us, with on and off play. But I do know someone who’s pump broke within a few days of play.

The sink will also randomly start working again for a few minutes after not working for months, and then die again.

But for $20, you should get your money back pretty quickly in babysitting money.

My son played with this FOR HOURS.

Just make sure to put a big towel underneath it, as it gets a little wet and messy, but not terribly so. Or just bring it outside if it’s nice out.

The Spark Kitchen Sink is a Walmart exclusive I believe, but you can find it on sites like Amazon too, but you will be paying more than retail for it. There are also other brands that also have a real working faucet as well, I just didn’t buy those brands of sink in my house and I think Spark was the first to introduce it.

You can find a knock-off version at Burlington Coat Factory, T.J. Maxx, etc. call Just Like Home Kitchen Sink and it’s a similar price, if you can’t find the spark one or would rather shop in stores.

Water Play is always a hit in our house and I don’t really engage much, just watch!

Long Snacks

Those Apple Pouches are great. They are quick, healthy, and great in a pinch. They are great for on-the-go and in a rush as they don’t take too much at all!

I love the apple pouch but sometimes we need the exact opposite. The all-time-consuming snack.

The snack that takes forever. The snack that will entertain your kids for awhile. The kind of snack that keeps them busy so you have a break.

I like to do long snacks that can also be an activity.

For Example: Crackers + Peanut Butter + Do It Yourself.

I give my kids a (safe) butter knife, crackers, and peanut butter and they love making peanut butter sandwiches. They are also learning motor skills as they are buttering the crackers themselves.

It’s not terribly messy either– a little messy, but manageable.

They keep themselves busy + I’m getting work done.

There’s a lot of other long, time-consuming snacks too, so it doesn’t just have to be peanut butter crackers or crackers and cheese!

The Novelty Activity

whisk a toy that keeps a baby busy

All Hail The Novelty. You know that item that super random item that will keep your kid busy forever for that moment in time and then they will never see or play with it again.

The novelty item is just a great way to keep a kid busy when you are exhausted or really sick.

Some you would never even give your kids on a regular basis but you are exhausted for some peace in quiet. A novelty item is great for this.

Not all novelty items are not the same and may work again, and some will just never work for your children, because all kids are different.

Here are a few “novelty items” that worked for my kids:

  • Flashlights
  • Keys
  • Bubble Wrap
  • Balloons
  • Slinky
  • Spin Tops (Grampy usually brings one to restaurants & keeps them busy)
  • Light or Glow Sticks (be careful if you have a biter)
  • Contact Case (just be careful with this one since it’s so small)
  • Tupperware with lots of covers and lids
  • Ice Cream Scoop, Pans, Rolling Pin, etc.
  • Whisk (you can put pom poms in it for more curiosity)
  • Spray Bottle
  • Window Clings
  • The Big Toy Book (I grabbed a few a Target at Christmas time to bring out

Let me know what your favorite novelty items are and have worked well for you– I need more!

Scavenger Hunt

Make a scavenger hunt for your kids! It can be a formal one or a casual one! (I usually do causal ones and just hide stuff!)

I sometimes will just hide legos all over the living room for the kids to find all the parts. Super easy and it keeps them busy.

If you want to get fancy, you can make list (with words or pictures) for your kids to find certain items listed.

You can find a lot of scavenger hunt ideas here if you’re looking for something organized.

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, just hid pennies (depending on age) all over your house. That’ll keep your kids busy for a few if they are little!

Ice Cubes

Something about ice cubes make them really fun!

Sometimes all you need is ice cubes, a tray and a silly tool to pick them up with.

One time I tried to “paint ice cubes” that I found on Pinterest where you take paint, a paintbrush and ice cubes and my 4-year-old was not impressed. “Mom, THIS is the activity”.

Painting Ice Cubes for Toddlers

So, make sure the ice cube activity is age appropriate and fun!

However, I find that just taking out ice cubes are fun and easy! I usually do it outside on the deck when I can!

I will also freeze their small toys like dinosaurs and have them dig them out of the ice! Depending on the tools you provide, it can keep them busy for a long time!

Play then Walk Away

“Engage, Play, then Walk Away!”

Start an activity, show them how it works and play with them for a few minutes. When they are totally engaged, walk away!

Chances are they are still going to play! I find this works well with my kids, because I have two and they continue to play with each other instead of me.

I do this a lot with magnetic tiles and other building toys, I’ll start the frame and they will just take it from there!

A great way to play with my kids, but also a chance to get some things done because they continue to self play!

“Quiet Time”

My kids no longer take naps, so I don’t get that blissful afternoon break. I use to do quiet times, but truthfully, we don’t do it anymore.

I used to put them down for a nap like they were actually going to sleep, and they would sit up in their cribs and play with their toys for an hour or so… once in a lucky moon they would fall asleep.

But quiet time can just be placing them in their beds, or putting them in a quiet place with books or quiet activities.

You both need a break, and quiet time is a great afternoon break for you both to recoup.

FaceTime with Grandparents or Friends

Can’t take advantage of in-person babysitting? When I feel completely done for the day or need to get stuff done, and my kids have SO much energy, I’ll call or FaceTime my parents or in-laws.

Have the kids talk to grandparents, friends, aunts, uncles, or whoever they love talking too, and have them “watch” them for awhile.

Obviously, you can’t run an errand or anything like a real babysitter, but it’s great just to sit next to them and have them keep busy and bonding with family at the same time.

Toy Rotation

Easy Toy Rotation for kid toys to stay organized and more toy play

I love not keeping every single toy out for instant play and instant messes and will rotate toys in my house.

Toy Rotation is just that… keep some toys and bins tucked away, and rotate toys for new ones. I keep big bins in the closet and will just take a bin for a day, and other times I’ll completely rotate the toys in our living room.

The nice thing about toy rotation is that “new” toys will appear. I feel like my kids will play with their toys longer when they haven’t seen them in awhile.

If they always see the same toys, and can access every single toy, they will play less. They get overwhelmed and bored. At least, I feel like that’s the case with my kids.

I like to keep totes in a closet and will take them out and rotate toys or even just pull out a toy or two when I feel like they need something else to keep them busy.

When I’m really tired, I’ll have “an ace” toy tucked away nearby and will bring it out when I need it. It’ll keep them busy, and the toy is “new”. It’s usually building related with my boys because they love to make and build things.

Screens

Sorry, but if you need to get things done, screens do the trick. If you want to feel less guilty, PBS has so many great educational shows and your kids will learn while you get a break and/or get your own crap done.

However, there so many different things you can do, so if you don’t have to pull out the screens either!

I find the more I switch things up, the more engaged my kids are! They tend to forget about activities, so rotating them works best for the most engagement and effectiveness!

What are you favorite things to do with the kids when you have to get crap done?

*This post contains affiliate links which means if you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission so thank you for supporting this mom and this small site!


Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Kid Activities, Uncategorized

Ways to Keep Your Toddler Busy When You Are Exhausted

September 12, 2019 by KT Leave a Comment

How to keep a toddler or kid busy when mom is sick, exhausted or need to get work done with easy kid activities

Are you looking for toddler activities to keep your kids busy when you are exhausted, sick, or just need to get stuff done?

I’ve been super sick lately and I have two little ones at home so it’s super hard to rest and watch toddlers as a stay at home mom.

If you are sick, exhausted or just need a break, here’s a few easy things to do while mom is sick:

*This post contains affiliate links, please see my disclosure policy if you have any questions.

Toy Rotation

Easy Toy Rotation for kid toys to stay organized and more toy play

I love not keeping every single toy out for instant play and instant messes and will rotate toys in my house.

Toy Rotation is just that… keep some toys and bins tucked away, and rotate toys for new ones. I keep big bins in the closet and will just take a bin for a day, and other times I’ll completely rotate the toys in our living room.

The nice thing about toy rotation is that “new” toys will appear. I feel like my kids will play with their toys longer when they haven’t seen them in awhile.

If they always see the same toys, and can access every single toy, they will play less. They get overwhelmed and bored. At least, I feel like that’s the case with my kids.

I like to keep totes in a closet and will take them out and rotate toys or even just pull out a toy or two when I feel like they need something else to keep them busy.

When I’m really tired, I’ll have “an ace” toy tucked away nearby and will bring it out when I need it. It’ll keep them busy, and the toy is “new”. It’s usually building related with my boys because they love to make and build things.

Fun building toys for toddlers and kids for easy kid activity

I also get overwhelmed less with toy rotation because I am looking at less toys myself and will do less pick up every night.

Also, there’s less dumping of every single toy in bins and then walking away to play with the coach cushions or something…

Highly recommend toy rotation or just keeping aside a few toys to keep playing with toys a little more exciting.

Easy Crafts

My Giant Busy Box for an easy craft activity for kids

We love to do crafts and creative things, but it can be exhausting to find the craft, set it up, assist and clean up.

I love craft kits when I need a break and want something easy to keep the kids entertained.

I’ll get some cheap stuff at Michaels, especially when the seasons are changing. They tend to have huge clearance sales for holiday items before the holiday is even over.

For example, I always go into Michaels around December 20th and grab a few last minute crafts for 75% off! I did the same for the fall, when it was still technically fall season– and there’s usually some craft kits to choose from!

I’ve also done the Alex Toys Busy Box. It’s nice when you want to do a craft, but don’t want to think about it or set it up. You can pull out a bag, and the craft is in the bag with all the supplies. It’s so nice and skips a few steps, especially when you are sick.

There’s also some super easy and mess-free crafts in the kit, like stick stickers on pizza, and then there’s more elaborate crafts that need some help and creativity. However, you can pick the craft in the kit based on your mood.

I love doing craft kits when the kids are exhausted because they usually keep them busy and there’s not too much to do on my end besides the occasional assisting or “ooh ahh”.

Big ‘ol Box

Yep. What toddler can resist a gigantic box?

Just grab markers, crayons, scissors, construction paper, glue, or nothing at all and see what amazing things can come out of a box.

That’s it, easy right?

My kids loves boxes of all shapes and sizes for creative play and self play! I don’t have to get involved at all with box play!

Just save those diaper boxes and random boxes for days you really need a break!

Magnetic Tiles

fun and easy toddler play with picasso magnetic tiles when mom is sick

My kids can play with Magnetic tiles for hours. It is probably the best investment toy in my house. They are a little pricey, but we’ve gotten soo may hours of play out of our magnetic tiles!

The best part is that the kids will usually play with these with little help from mom. Sometimes I’ll play and make things with them, but other times, they can play for quite awhile with them by themselves!

I’ll even put them on the fridge and have them play with magna-tiles while cooking dinner!

Magna-tiles can get a little pricey, we actually don’t have any of the original brand, but we do have a few knocks that work just as well!

picasso magnetic tiles for fun building activity for toddlers

We have Picasso tiles and PlayMags and another random brand. I like the PlayMags a tad better if they are the same price, but Picasso tiles and other brands are fine too! The different brands also work fine together, I think as long as they look like they will work together, they will.

Magnetic tiles are definitely my favorite toy and perfect for days that I’m exhausted and need to get things done because they get hours of play with them!

Sand Box

Sand Box for toddlers for easy outdoor play

If it’s nice weather, head outside. Digging in a sandbox can keep kids occupied for awhile!

If you don’t have a sandbox or the sandbox novelty has worn out, you can also add sand to a Tupperware bin and place some shovels, cups, or kitchen tools for some sand play!

You could also put kinetic sand or make cloud dough and create an indoor sand box if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Keep in mind, that it could get messy for indoor play. The first time I did cloud dough, I got two hours of self play and easy clean up. It was amazing. Next time, not so much. It can get messy real fast, depending on experience.

But a sand box outside or on the deck is perfect for days that you are exhausted!

big pile of dirt at construction birthday party for kid activity to keep toddlers busy

We also went to an construction birthday party with a big pile of dirt and my kid was digging in that for two hours straight.

My son totally ignored the huge brand-new sand box and went straight for the dirt pile, so if the sandbox novelty has worn out, go for the good stuff.

Anyone need a big pile of dirt delivered?

Spark Kitchen Sink

Guys, water comes out when you turn on the play sink, just like a real sink. And you don’t have to stand at a sink with your kid for 10 minutes or waste water!

You put water on the bottom and the pump will bring up the water and it keeps recycling through the water.

My kids love it. It’s the Spark Kitchen Sink with a WORKING FAUCET.

Just be forewarned though, it doesn’t last terribly long. The pump actually lasted longer for us than others, but it won’t last forever. I think it lasted around a year for us, with on and off play. But I do know someone who’s pump broke within a few days of play.

The sink will also randomly start working again for a few minutes after not working for months, and then die again.

But for $15, you should get your money back pretty quickly in babysitting money.

My son played with this FOR HOURS.

Especially if you have a water/sink lover on your hands.

Just make sure to put a big towel underneath it, as it gets a little wet and messy, but not terribly so. Or just bring it outside if it’s nice out.

The Spark Kitchen Sink is a Walmart exclusive and available for $14.88, but you can find it on sites like Amazon too, but you will be paying more than retail for it.

You can find a knock-off version at Burlington Coat Factory, T.J. Maxx, etc. call Just Like Home Kitchen Sink and it’s a similar price, if you can’t find the spark one or would rather shop in stores.

There’s also the Little Tikes Splish Splash Sink and Stove for $20, and the pump works a tad differently, but I heard that it’s also a hit!

All three sinks were really hard to find two Christmases ago, but I think they are a little easier to find now.

The sink is definitely a hit and a great investment for $15-$20 since your little one should engrossed for awhile with this one!

Toys in the Tub

Toys in the tub… with no water. That’s so silly mom.

The Tub is a great go-to when you are exhausted and just want them to stay in one place for more than 5 minutes.

Throw them in the tub, put some toys that shouldn’t be there, and viola!

If your up for it, you can also add water for some longer fun.

You could even throw those toys in their for a silly bath time or put their bathing suits on and “go to the beach” if it’s been a long day or long winter.

I also like to throw toys in during the day for a bath because:

  1. It’s fun and silly
  2. It keeps the kids extra busy
  3. The toys get clean (!!!)

Using the bath during the day with or without water is a great activity that can keep the busy for a long time with minimal effort. You just have to stay in the bathroom with them for this one.

Time Consuming Snacks

annies fruit roll ups for an easy time consuming snack for kids

Those Apple Pouches are great. They are quick, healthy, and great in a pinch. They are great for on-the-go and in a rush as they don’t take too much at all!

I love the apple pouch but sometimes we need the exact opposite. The all-time consuming snack.

The snack that takes forever. The snack that your entertain your kids for awhile. The kind of snack that keeps them busy so you have a break.

My kids are eating that snack right now as I type this. I am sitting at my kitchen table and the kids are around and eating a time consuming snack. We are on about 20 minutes. It’s lovely.

There are many different options, but today I did food + activity + motor skills.

Crackers + Peanut Butter + Do It Yourself.

I give my kids a (safe) butter knife, crackers, and peanut butter and they love making peanut butter sandwiches. They are also learning motor skills as they are buttering the crackers themselves.

It’s not terribly messy either– a little messy, but manageable.

They keep themselves busy + I’m getting work done.

If we are on the go and need to keep them busy on an airplane, waiting area, etc. I’ll pick a less messy time consuming snack like fruit roll-ups or something.

What are your favorite time consuming snacks! I need some more ideas!

Don’t Wake The….

Don’t wake the {insert favorite animal or mystical creature}

We usually play Don’t Wake The Lion and I am (Mom) the Lion. I lay on the floor in blankets and pillows (cozy) and I’m a lion. Anytime the kids come near and try to uncover my blanket, I let out a big ROAR.

You can do this fun little lazy game with whatever you want. I’m usually a lion because my kids love ROARING, but you could be a big bear, pirate, dragon, or whatever your kids would like best.

You can even hid a little treat, treasure, or toy to make it more enticing and have them try to get the treat from the lion.

We get a few giggles out of it and I get to lay down in blankets and pillows without doing too much, but I still feel like I’m still bonding and having fun with my kids even if I feel terrible.

It’s silly, fun and lazy fun all at the same time!

Reading, Puzzles and Games

puzzles for toddlers for easy play and learning on the couch

This is one that you need to be present for, but great if you are sick and exhausted because it’s very low energy.

We sit on the couch and we read books. We do will do puzzles together and play board games and silly games.

I like to do things that I can sit on the couch and rest but I can still engage and do fun things with them.

Big picture books, magazines, maps, calendars, and baby pictures of themselves also do well as they like to look at different things! We can open up a big map and point to things on a map or talk about the numbers or pictures on the calendar.

It keeps them busy and intrigued, and I get to sit on the couch.

Behold The Novelty

whisk a toy that keeps a baby busy

All Hail The Novelty. You know that item that super random item that will keep your kid busy forever for that moment in time and then they will never see or play with it again.

The novelty item is just a great way to keep a kid busy when you are exhausted or really sick.

Some you would never even give your kids on a regular basis but you are exhausted for some peace in quiet. A novelty item is great for this.

Not all novelty items are not the same and may work again, and some will just never work for your children, because all kids are different.

Here are a few “novelty items” that worked for my kids:

  • Flashlights
  • Keys
  • Balloons
  • Slinky
  • Spin Tops (Grampy usually brings one to restaurants & keeps them busy)
  • Light or Glow Sticks (be careful if you have a biter)
  • Contact Case (just be careful with this one since it’s so small)
  • Tupperware with lots of covers and lids
  • Ice Cream Scoop, Pans, Rolling Pin, etc.
  • Whisk (you can put pom poms in it for more curiosity)
  • Spray Bottle
  • The Big Toy Book (I grabbed a few a Target at Christmas time to bring out

Let me know what your favorite novelty items are and have worked well for you– I need more!

And The Screen

screen time for kids with an iPad when mom or dad is sick

Since this is a post about parenting while exhausted, a screen like TV or an iPad will keep those little ones entertained while you rest.

I personally try to limit screen time, but when I’m sick, those limits go out the window.

TV and movies keep my boys still and entertained while I rest.

We usually stick to PBS programming like Curious George or Daniel Tiger because they learn some stuff and they’re household favorites.

We also watch some music programming like The Wiggles because sometimes they’ll dance and let some energy out!

I try not to feel too guilty about letting them watch a lot of TV and movies when I need it, because it keeps them safe and entertained. They are also little and won’t watch TV all day since they can never stay still for that long!

Some days are packed with stuff and a screen never turns on, and other days, screens are on more than usual. I think it all balances out in the end.

When you are completely exhausted, a little screen time is an easy activity that will keep them busy and entertained.

What are some things you do when you need to watch the kids when you are sick or completely exhausted?

Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Kid Activities, Parenting Tagged With: Toddler Activities

8 Ways to Keep Your Toddlers Busy While Cooking Dinner

August 12, 2019 by KT Leave a Comment

8 Activities for Babies, Toddlers, and Young Kids to Keep Busy While Making Dinner

Looking for easy and quick ways to keep toddlers busy while cooking dinner with simple activities for toddlers?

I’m very fortunate that my husband usually gets home early enough to watch the kids while I cook dinner, which is always nice.

However, there’s still many times I have to do both, which can be quite the task with little ones by my side.

However, there are a few activities for toddlers that will do the trick to keep the kids busy during dinner prep.

Here are 8 Toddler Activities to keep those toddlers busy while cooking dinner:

*This post contains affiliate links, please see my disclosure policy if you have any questions.

1. Magnets or Magna-Tiles on the Fridge

Magnets on the Fridge Kid Activity

We have animal magnets and letter magnets on the fridge that will keep my boys entertained for a few minutes. (Although some of them will magically disappear/slide under the fridge).

Recently, I’ve added Magna-Tiles to the fridge rotation, which is always a hit.

Magna-Tiles on the fridge– that’s so silly mom! They are not suppose to be there! How do they stick? Can I build on the fridge with them? Let’s see how Magna-Tiles work on the fridge!

I like throwing a few on the fridge and see their cute little heads spin and build!

Magnets on the fridge is a fun activity that will distract the kids for a few minutes.

2. Magnets on Baking Pan

Quick Activities for Toddlers, Magnets on Baking Pan

For some extra silly fun, place magnets or magna-tiles on a baking pan!

I like to use the alphabet magnets to encourage spelling, but any magnets work! 

Just take out a baking pan and magnets, and viola! Simply activity! 

3. Containers and Lids

This is a better activity for a baby or young toddler, but containers and lids are great to keep that age busy. 

Simply grab a mixture of containers and lids… think Tupperware and/or recyclables!

You can also use things like old parmesan or seasoning containers (containers with lots of holes) and take pipe cleaners, pom poms, etc. and have them stick them in the containers! 

Playing with containers and lids are a fun way to keep busy, and you can always add to the activity when it gets a little boring!

4. Color

Coloring Canvas Paper with Markers on floor for easy toddler activity

Coloring is an easy, minimal set-up activity and better for older toddlers, but little ones may like it too! (And you can always adjust it to make it age appropriate!)

Coloring with crayons and paper/coloring book is great, but you can also set up canvas paper on the floor or have them color in a box!

If you don’t have crayons or markers, or if they haven’t mastered that skill yet, you can also take a big paintbrush and a little water in a small bowl and have them “paint” on colored paper!

You can also grab a dry-erase board or even a magnetic drawing board where they can draw and erase their work for some endless fun! 

Coloring is such an easy activity and great option for them to do at the table while you are cooking! 

5. Tape

What is it with tape? My kids love tape that I had to stop buying it for awhile because they would use it all up on me!

If you have a young toddler, you may want to stick them in a high chair, and put masking tape on their tray, and have them pull it off and on. If they are older, you could have them put masking tape on the floor (gasp!) and make a race track. 

You could also just give them regular tape with construction paper and see what they do with it! 

Tape is popular at my house and will give me a few minutes to get some chopping done!

6. Assign a Task

My kids love to help! It’s not always an option depending on what’s for dinner (and I’m not always in the mood for a helper) but sometimes it’s a great option!

If we are making pizza, I may have them pull up a stool and spread the sauce, sprinkle the cheese, and add the toppings! They love it!

Try to find ways to incorporate making dinner into a fun activity.

If I’ve already done the prep or can’t have little hands helping, I may ask them to bring their milk cups, plates, butter tub, etc. to the table!

They love to help and it gives me a few seconds to sir the pasta or whatever it may be! I also get to make less trips to the table! 

7. Feed Early

healthy snack for toddlers

If not much is working to keep my kids occupied, and it’s taking awhile to get dinner on the table, I may feed my kids a little snack or something. 

I see your eye roll. I see your point.

It doesn’t happen all the time, but sometimes desperate times calls for desperate measures. Food always works.

If I’m cutting peppers, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, etc., I’ll put them in small bowl and strap them in their seats. 

The kids get a head start with dinner and I get some peace and quiet while finishing dinner.

Feeding a snack or a portion of dinner that’s ready early can make sense in some situations and can make finishing dinner easy!

8. Pots & Pans Play

quick toddler activity with kitchen pots and pans

The Pots and Pans drawer is my never-fail go-to if I need something easy and quick! I tend to use this option for emergency situations like if something else isn’t working or the water is boiling and I need something quick as a distraction.

My Pots and Pans are in a bottom drawer, and I’ll quickly take off the child lock and pull a few utensils out for some banging and playing for a few minutes to get a few things done!

It must be something about opening a forbidden draw or something, but real pots and pans are always a hit!

What are some activities for toddlers that you do to keep your kids busy while making dinner?

Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Kid Activities

How to Make Money as a Stay At Home Mom

July 30, 2019 by KT Leave a Comment

Ways to make money as a stay-at-home mom

Are you looking for ways to make money as stay at home mom? Are you looking to become a SAHM but need to make some extra money first?

I’m a Stay At Home Mom and always introduce myself as one whenever people ask for my occupation. However, I do try to make money as a stay at home mom, and feel like so many other SAHM do some kind of side hustle to make some extra money.

Raising kids are so expensive and finding different ways to make money as a stay at home mom can be so helpful to the family budget!

But, don’t feel guilty if you struggle making money or simply don’t want to. Raising small children is A LOT of work and already a full-time job!

However, if you want to make some money I have compiled a list of ideas that are perfect for moms who want to make some extra money and are flexible for the crazy mom life.

Here’s a few different ways to make money as a stay at home mom:

*Please note that some suggestions below may include an affiliate, please see my disclosure policy if you have any questions.

Be a Caregiver

If you are home with your kid(s), watching other children is a great way to make some extra money. You can become a nanny and bring your kid(s) along, watch a child in your home or even open a daycare in your basement.

There’s a lot of different options for being a caregiver, nanny, or babysitter to another family with kids.

I know a lot of stay-at-home moms in my area that will watch another child while they watch their own, or they watch little ones while their older ones are at school.

This is such a great option, especially if you love kids and are use to watching children all day anyway!

Before or after school care is also a great option for someone who may want a shorter or easier option, especially if a child can take the bus home to your house and play with your child.

Looking to find a job as a nanny or caretaker? There’s a lot of different ways, but a simple way is building a profile through Care.com, SitterCity, or connecting with moms in your community.

Dog Walker or Dog Caretaker

Walk your baby to sleep a lot? See if a neighbor needs a dog walker and baby wear your little one or use the stroller instead.

Even if your little one takes naps like a champ in the crib, stroller walks are a great way to see everything along the way + making some extra money walking a furry friend.

Not for everyone, but a dog walker may be a good option to look into if you love dogs and walks.

If you’d rather, you can also take care of dogs (or any animal) while someone is out of town. Some people prefer someone watching their dogs in a comfy house with a backyard from a family.

If you are looking for more information on becoming a dog walker or pet sitter, check out Rover or even Care.com for all kinds of opportunities or ask a neighbor or community member.

Teach for VIPKid

I feel like I know so many moms that do VIPKid that I’m intrigued but not sure if teaching ESL is my forte.

If you have a Bachelors degree and any kind of teaching experience, you may want to look into teaching ESL from the comfort of your own home.

You do not need to know a second language to teach English, and you don’t need to create your own lessons as they are provided.

I believe the students are children from China so you would need to have availability early in the morning or late in the evening, but the hours may work well if you have small children so you can do teaching while they are sleeping and have a quiet house.

You can earn up to $22, but I would expect $14-17 to start, especially as you build up experience, clientele, and hours as I think bonuses and such are included in that $22 rate.

There’s also other options as well, but I always see VIPKid mentioned from other moms.

Sell Stuff

Need money quick? Selling your stuff that you are not using, is a great way to make some extra money and quickly too!

You can sell stuff on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Ebay, Yard Sales, and many more places!

You can also pick up stuff at yard sales, store clearance bins, flea markets, dumpsters, etc. and “flip” them for more money.

For example, on Prime Day, Amazon had a $700 camera for $97 due to a glitch. If I was on top of my game, I would have snatched them and then resold them on Ebay for a similar wholesale price. If I sold 2 for $500 after expenses, I would have made $1,000 for some quick work!

Although, the example above doesn’t always happen magically like that, you can still “flip” stuff that is undervalued for a higher value.

I had a friend that got a pottery barn hutch for $300 on craigslist, but it ended up being too big for her space, and she sold it on craigslist for $500 a month later. She quickly gained $200 because she knew the value of the item.

Selling stuff you already have is a great way to get started and then move on to purchasing some inventory as you get your feet wet and figure out your niche.

Drop Shipping and FBA

Drop Shipping and FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is similiar to the reselling option above.

However, you don’t need to keep any inventory or stand in line at the post office to ship anything out.

With Drop Shipping, you need to create a store front and find items to sell. Once you get a sale, you would then purchase it through another source and they would ship it to your customer and everything. You would be the middle man.

Some people set up a store front with Shopify and then use a service like AliExpress to buy the product from and ship it out. I personally don’t have experience with dropshipping, but there’s many different ways to handle it.

FBA works a little different, as you typically buy inventory and then send it to Amazon as a bulk box. They would then sell the item for you, and it would be marked as a Prime item with 2-day shipping.

With FBA, you would need to do a little legwork in the beginning, but after it leaves your home, you just need to check your sales!

Virtual Assistant

Be an assistant from the comfort of your home! A Virtual Assistant assists clients in a variety of tasks, and every Virtual Assistant job is different.

If you have ever been an administrative assistant or office manager, a Virtual Assistant could be up your wheel house!

Some VA’s concentrate on one skill like mastering Pinterest Marketing as Pinterest VA and others do a little bit of everything. It really depends on your skill set and what you like to do and work on.

Virtual Assistant can sometimes set their schedules and do everything from home, which makes a great job for moms!

A lot of moms will find their own jobs and have their own VA business, but others will work directly with a company so they don’t have to search for clients.

Freelance Your Skills

Got skills? Be a freelancer! When I think of a freelancer, I think of a freelance writer, but you don’t nee to write to be a freelancer!

You can do freelance writing, freelance graphic design, freelance editing, freelance bookkeeping, freelance coding, freelance interpreter, freelance igloo designer, freelance whatever.

Use your skills to get specific jobs and work on the projects whenever you can!

You can find freelance clients through networking, referrals or online sites like freelancer, fiverr, upwork, flexjobs, or even craigslist. For more ways to find freelance jobs, check out this helpful freelance job roundup here.

Get Crafty

If you are a crafty mom, you may want to consider making and selling crafts for some extra money.

You can sell on Etsy, set up a store on Shopify, or even create your own Facebook page and sell directly from there, or a little bit of everything.

Keep in mind supply costs and the cost of time to determine how successful your venture will be, as craft items sometimes come with a lot of overhead. However, items like printables and designs have low costs but a lot of competition.

Create Something

If you are looking to create something other than crafts, there’s a lot of different options.

I love the idea of creating something once, and then selling it.

E-Book, book, script, song lyrics, etc. can all be created and then have little maintenance later and can pay long after a book has been written.

Writing a whole book or movie script does take a lot of talent and time, but there are other easier ways to make money from creating something.

If you are an expert in something, you can create an easy an how-to guide, manuel, e-book, etc. You could make printables, signs, or anything that makes anyone’s lives easier. You can even make a one-page of information for someone to download, as long as there’s value there.

Think of things that you like to do, what you are good at, and what there’s a need for.

I’ve bought party supplies like invitations, tent cards, and decorations because it was more cost effective to buy from an expert than me spending two hours making something half decent.

Think of things that are easy for you and time savers for other moms that might make them spend some money on your product.

You can also make and create courses as well, or even create an App.

There’s so many different things you can create to make something profitable– you just need to come up with an idea and make and market a product!

Social Media Manager, Marketer, Influencer

If you love social media, you may want to look at different opportunities at making money through Social Media.

You could be a Social Media Manager and manage social media accounts for businesses and brands. You would need to find clients and manage their account(s), add content, reply to customers, etc.

You could decide to be your own boss and find your own clients, or work directly with one company as a Social Media Manager.

A Social Media Marketer is also an option and you could do affiliate marketing and other marketing through social media channels.

I know some moms have Facebook groups and about shopping deals, for example. They will post all the hot deals from Amazon and more and then put Amazon links in the group.

If someone clicks on the link and makes a purchase, you’ll typically make around 5% of the sale. If someone buys this #CatButt Coloring Book for $6.99, you may get around .34 for the sale but if someone buys this Cat Condo for $700, you may get around $35 for the one sale.

If you have a large audience, those amounts can add up, especially with the bigger purchases!

I know Amazon does allow links in Facebook groups, but they do have a set of rules that you would need to follow, as well as other companies with affiliate programs.

The commission % also changes depending on categories, # of sales, and other factors.

You can also make money on social media by working with brands as an influencer. You would recommend a product to social media and you would be paid a set amount for it.

You would need to create a loyal following for brands to be interested and you could do it as yourself or your own brand.

It may take a little work before a brand is interested, but you don’t need a big celebrity to get brands interested in working with you.

Just keep in mind that you don’t want to work with any company that will pay because you could lose your credibility as an influencer. Only work with brands that you believe in and make sure it’s a fair price for services.

You can also do a mix of influencer, marketer, and manager and concentrate one one social media platform or a bunch!

I know YouTube and Instagram are two channels that people do very well in without being on every social media platform or having a website. You just have to do well at connecting with others and building an audience, and you can make money just through YouTube or Instagram!

It can definitely be hard to find a balance with social media and figuring on what to share and not share as a parent though!

However, there’s so many different ways to make money through Social Media. You don’t have to be a big celebrity, big business, or big blogger to do so!

Give your Opinion

You could give your opinion to make some extra money.

I hate survey sites, but you might not find it as mind-numbing boring as I do.

The only survey site that I remember liking was Pinecone Research and they paid around $3 a survey when I used to do it. It wasn’t big money, but it definitely helped when I had more time than money.

However, you can do things like Mystery Shopping to make some extra money instead of surveys, or both. Mystery Shopping can be a fun side gig, and you can read more about it!

I also heard about UserTesting.com, which I need to check out. I’m just adding it to remind myself to do so, then I’ll post an update about it. I haven’t done so yet, but heard it’s about $10 for about 20-30 minutes of work.

Sell Photography

If you love photography and take great photos, you can sell it. You can become an actual photographer and do head shots, family portraits, newborn photography, wedding photography, etc.

I know some moms that will just do family sessions around the holidays and do mini-sessions. They will do 15-minute sessions and schedule multiple families at a fun location for one-day.

In our area it’s normal to pay $100 (for experienced photographers) for a 15-minute family mini-session + the pictures, so if you did 6-hrs of mini-session with all full spots you could make around $2,400 for a day of sessions. You’ll have to figure in editing time, e-mailing clients, marketing, etc. in that amount though.

Of course, you have to be a good photographer and some interested people in your area, but could be a great opportunity for mom photographers.

Another way you could make money through photography is by selling photos you’ve already taken– even years ago when you were younger and had more time on your hands or create new images at home or during family adventures!

Businesses and bloggers are always looking for beautiful and unique images to use on websites, magazines, ads, and much more!

Some places to sell your photography:

  • Shutterstock
  • iStock
  • Etsy
  • Dreamstime
  • Getty Images
  • Stocksy
  • Your Own Website

Become a Publisher/Blogger

I can’t be a mom blogger without mentioning a blog. If you love doing a little bit of everything and your own piece of the web, you may love blogging.

However, if you want to make money as a blogger, you need to be in it for the end game. It will take a few months, or even longer, before you make any money.

Also, a lot of ad networks and affiliate programs cut checks 60-90 days out, so even after you make the money, it will take a little bit to get it. You also will have to earn at least $25-100 from a network before they will even cut a check.

Sometimes ad networks will require a blog up and running before acceptance as well as a minimum amount of views, depending on the network.

So it takes time to make money with a blog.

If you need money quick, I would go with a service option like freelance writing that will pay immediately after you perform the work. With blogging, it takes awhile to see the payout.

However, if you have the patience and the desire to learn new things, blogging may be a great option for you.

The beauty of blogging is that you can do it however you want.

You can do a free blog and spend zero money or you could invest money and go big from the start.

I recommend doing neither, and spend some money, but start slow.

You can get blog hosting for $3.95/month through SiteGround (what I currently use) or get a similar price with other hosting companies. You’ll need to buy the domain, and I recommend domain privacy, but you can keep everything under $100.

I recommend buying a domain, preferably a .com, and then using wordpress to support your content, and using SiteGround to host it.

I’m going to be honest, it can be a little overwhelming at first because you need to learn everything. You need to create content, do web design, figure out technical errors, monetize, market you site, social media, and much more. You are a one-man machine, at least at first. (Unless, you have money to hire out!)

However, it can be very rewarding and you will learn so many valuable skills. You may also learn that you may just want to focus on one area, so you switch gears and focus slowly on freelance writing, Pinterest marketing, web design, or whatever it may be.

Blogging is a great way to go out your comfort zone, learn new things, and connect with other bloggers and readers!

It can be a lot of work, especially in the beginning, but once you get going, you will hopefully reap some rewards.

The beauty of blogging is that you could be on vacation with your family and have done absolutely nothing that entire week, and find when you return you made $700 or whatever it may be! Your blog and previous content is always working for you!

There are so many different ways to make money with blogging through placing ads on the site, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, creating a product, event appearances, ebooks, and so many other ways.

I personally focus on advertising and affiliate marketing when blogging, because they are more passive and fit my personal style the best.

There’s actually SO many different ad and affiliate networks to choose from, but here are a few good options for beginners:

  • Google AdSense: Banner and display ads, get paid per click per click on ad. Good for beginners, easy to apply and get accepted but pay will be low and slow. (Media.net is another beginner option that I’ve never personally used)
  • Sovrn formerly VigLink: Add a plug-in and links that are not optimized will turn to an affiliate when possible. Easy to get accepted and good for beginners so you don’t have to apply to many different networks & worry about affiliate links in the beginning. There’s so many affiliates there if you’d rather do manual links instead of automatic ones too.
  • Amazon: Easy to get accepted but you do need 3 sales within 90? days or you’ll get kicked out. You can apply again, but you may want to wait until you have little readership before applying to Amazon, but there’s so many different products to choose from with Amazon!
  • Mediavine: Work on getting readership and pageviews, then apply to Mediavine once you get 25,000 pageviews for Ad Management.

However, that’s just a small sample of options, and once you grow bigger you’ll have a lot more affiliate networks to choose from.

Blogging can be a lot of work, especially in the beginning, but it is very fun and a great little side hustle for a stay-at-home mom or hopeful SAHM.

I hope you got a few ideas of how to make money as a stay at home mom and will inspire you to start your own mom business!

What are your favorite ways to make money as a Stay-At-Home Mom? Have you had any successes so far? Any ideas on the list that you are going to try?

Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Making Money

The Absolute Best Way to Travel with Young Kids

July 21, 2019 by KT Leave a Comment

The Best Way to Travel with Babies, Toddlers and Kids to make traveling with kids easy!

What is the absolute best way to travel with young kids?

Time Machine. Teleportation. Private Jet.

RIGHT!? I mean, teleportation for travel with kids would be SO AMAZING.

Someone make it happen. PLEASE.

But if you are looking for a somewhat realistic option for a great way to travel with kids, I love renting a house for my family or getting a place with more than one little room.

Having more than one room when traveling with young kids is a game changer. You can put them to bed at a early bedtime and then have another room to hang out in and do things, instead of just laying quietly in bed.

So how do you get so much space without spending a fortune?

It can be done. I usually budget $100/night (give or take depending on location) for a place bigger than a boring hotel room.

Here’s how I book a place to stay for a family of four with plenty of space with a tight budget:

*Please note that some of the links below do contain affiliate links, please see my disclosure policy if you have any questions.

Book with AirBnB

AirBnB is a great way to get extra space for a family as well as saving money too!

AirBnB is a community marketplace where people list, discover, and book places to stay all over the world. You can list your place or can stay at someone’s place.

We’ve used AirBnB a lot over the past few years, more so now that we have young children. We luckily have had all very positive experiences, but use some caution as anyone can list a property there.

Make sure to book a property with plenty of reviews, and if you want to ensure a positive first experience, look for listings with a Superhost because they are the elite hosts who are really experienced and helpful!

If you haven’t used AirBnB before, new users can get a FREE $40 Credit and can be applied on your first booking of $75 or more! You have one year from sign up to use the free $40, excluding taxes and guest fees.

Getting $40 off a booking is obviously not a free stay somewhere with your family, but it definitely helps! Also, if you refer a friend, you can get free $40 credit once they return from their trip.

4 Friends x $40 = $160 + $40 for signing up with a referral link = $200 in free credit to use!

Also, when you are looking at AirBnB listings, make sure to look at that total number instead of the per night number:

AirBnB Free Credit, How to Book on AirBnB to save money

See the example above where the first place is $320 a night and the second is $343 a night, but when you look at the total cost for my four day trip, the second place comes out cheaper.

It’s because people can pick what they want to charge per night as well as other fees. I could charge $100 a night with a $50 cleaning fee or I may decide to charge $150 and clean the room myself with no fees attached.

However, when you are looking you may be more apt to book the $100 place, but they are the same exact price. You really need to look at the total number to see how fees will figure out to find the best place for the best price.

Overall, AirBnB is a great place to look for unique properties and extra space!

We stayed at a hotel for a very last minute trip and after one night of very bad sleep, I looked at AirBnB the next morning. I found a 3-bedroom house for that night for $10 more a night than our small hotel room. $10! It was definitely worth the upgrade!

For more information or to receive free credit for signing up for AirBnB, please head here.

VRBO and Homeaway

VRBO and Homeaway are other home rental options to check out. They are under the same management, so I find them generally the same. I usually just check one of them, especially if I’m short on time.

I will sometimes find the same places listed on AirBnB as well, but I’ll also find some new ones too!

Sometimes, I’ll even find some very different prices for the exact same house on VRBO and AirBnB between the two sites, so make sure to compare prices beforehand.

VRBO or Homeaway are both great home rental sites that may have other options than AirBnB, and is a great place to look for large house rentals for groups!

Find Discount Hotel Suites

If you can’t find a decent home rental for the right price or you’d rather the amenities at a hotel, booking a suite at a hotel is a great option for a family.

Look at the room type when booking to see what options are available. Not every hotel will have a one or two bedroom suite available for that extra space.

I hate when hotels say it’s a suite but it’s a studio or have a half wall for a one-bedroom suite, so look at pictures when you can to make sure you’re getting the extra space you need.

Hotel Suites are definitely more expensive than a regular room, but I like to use Priceline’s Express Deals to get the best deal on hotel rooms.

Keep in mind Priceline’s Express Deals are non-refundable so make sure you are indeed going and make sure you are okay with a “mystery” hotel. It’s really hard to get refunded with Priceline so make sure to do your research.

Head to the Express Deals tab on the right side after you enter your location and details in.

Hopefully there will be a lot of options and this can vary a lot depending on your destination and how busy the dates are.

I personally concentrate on express deals that say bed choice available, because if not, you get what you get, and you can’t pick what room you want aka a suite.

I’ll open every express deal within my budget and star requirement and see what the bed choice availability is. I look for 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom suites or anything that’s more than a small studio bedroom.

You’ll have to click “choose a room” then “book” to get the bed choice availability, if it’s offered.

If there’s a winner or two, I will then utilize hotel canary, a free chrome browser extension I downloaded a few months ago. The browser extension will tell me what hotel it is.

priceline hotel canary example

I pressed my hotel canary button on the checkout screen, and it was the Fairfield Inn & Suites. If I paid $3 more, I could also upgrade from 2 double beds to a 1 bedroom suite.

I hate surprises so it’s nice I have a pretty solid idea of what hotel it may be.

I’ll then go back and look at the hotel and look at all the details, pictures, and reviews and see if I would like to stay there or not.

If so, I will see if I can find the hotel elsewhere for cheaper than Priceline’s Hotel Express Deals or directly through the hotel for reward points. I usually end up booking through Priceline’s Express deals, but not always, especially if I want free cancellation.

Priceline’s Express Deals is a great way to get prices for cheap, and I love the bed choice availability option so I can pick what will work best for our family.

I’ll usually check other hotels for more options and pricing through Expedia, Hotels.com, and other sites.

I try to put in 3 kids and two adults to rule out those smaller rooms from the get go, and then weed through them, and then just change the exact guests later.

I always like to price compare hotel rooms, because pricing can vary depending on different sites, and sometimes promo codes or incentives might be available on a certain site and make it more lucrative to book there.

Personally, I do a lot of research before traveling to make sure I get the most bang for my buck, but the extra space with young kids is SO nice.

Booking a house or larger hotel room is the absolute best way to travel with kids in my opinion.

The Best Way to Travel with Kids with traveling tips and hacks

What is your favorite way to travel with young kids? Do you have any tips that you use to get the most space for the best price?

Don’t forget to check out What to Pack on Vacation with Babies and Toddlers!

Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Travel

No Spend Weekend Activity Ideas With Kids

July 10, 2019 by KT Leave a Comment

No Spend Weekends with Kids, Free Family Fun

Are you looking for some free things to do with kids for a no spend activity?

Kids can be so expensive and it can be so easy to spend money going out as a family, as it adds up quick, but there’s so much free fun to do without spending a fortune too.

We asked for family memberships and things to do as Christmas presents for our kids in lieu of toys. We got a membership to a local zoo and museum and we love it! It’s also a great way to do some high-quality family fun without paying anything!

Family memberships can often come with a lot of perks as well as reciprocal benefits, so we can get into a few different zoos and museums for free!

We go to zoos and museums a lot and it’s so nice not to pay anything thanks to our free annual passes! We also pack lunches and snacks, so we just need to pay for gas to get there!

There are so many different things you can do with your toddlers and kids that don’t require any money, and below are a few ideas for a no-spend day, weekend, or month:

*This post may contain affiliate links, please see my disclosure policy if you have any questions.

  • Discover a new playground
  • Take a Hike
  • Visit a park
  • Pack a picnic
  • Family Bike Ride
  • Nature Walk
  • Go to a Pet Store or Animal Shelter and see animals
  • Visit the Library
  • Free Storytime at Barnes & Noble, Library, Local Farm, and other places!
  • Make something at Home Depot with their free workshops for kids
  • Free activities and events from Whole Foods
  • Stroll Ikea Childless while kids play at Smaland
  • Free Museum Days (Bank of America cardholders get free entry on certain dates!)
  • Check out a free concert
  • Free outdoor movies screening in the park
  • Enjoy a local festival or free community event
  • Head to the Beach or Lake
  • Swimming at a free watering hole
  • Enjoy a splash pad
  • Fly a Kite
  • Family Game Night
  • Make a meal together (pizza night!)
  • Make an obstacle course in the yard (or playground)
  • Have a Dance Party
  • Play with Sidewalk Chalk in the driveway
  • Make popsicles or ice cream
  • Make homemade playdough
  • Run through the sprinklers
  • Swim in a (kiddie) pool
  • Plant a garden
  • Build a fort
  • Paint rocks
  • Hide and seek
  • Play a sport outside
  • Play in a sandbox
  • Enjoy the water table and water play
  • Play in boxes
  • Make musical instruments and play them
  • Dance on bubble wrap
  • Watch Movies at home

What are your favorite things to do with your fkids without spending any money?

Filed Under: Daily Parenting, Saving Money

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