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5 Creative Ways to Engage Your Child When You’re in Need of Extra Sleep
As parents, we all experience those moments when exhaustion overtakes us—perhaps you had a late night, are recovering from an illness, or are simply feeling overwhelmed. If you’re like me and expecting another child, energy levels can plummet to new lows. While ideally, we could allow our little ones to enjoy some screen time, toddlers often require more active engagement. To assist you during those particularly challenging times, here are five inventive strategies to keep your child entertained when you can barely keep your eyes open.
1. The Mini Cinema Experience
Duration: 10-30 minutes
One of the simplest ways to captivate your toddler’s attention is by showcasing videos of themselves on your smartphone. Kids love seeing their own antics, and with the added bonus of some fun Elmo tunes, you can buy yourself a few precious minutes of peace. While pediatricians recommend limiting screen time for children under two, a brief viewing session can be a harmless way to keep them occupied.
2. Treasure from Trash
Duration: 10 minutes
Our playroom may have been a significant investment, but surprisingly, my child finds more joy in exploring everyday items. Collecting and playing with clean bits of “trash” can be a delightful experience for toddlers. Simply take an empty tissue box and fill it with crumpled paper or safe household items. If you’re pressed for time, your handbag can serve as a treasure trove too—just ensure there are no choking hazards lurking inside.
3. The Snack Feeder
Duration: 10 minutes
To savor your favorite takeout without interruption, consider this simple snack game. Break up a piece of bread or a chip into tiny pieces and scatter them on your child’s high chair tray. The extended time it takes for them to nibble away at each crumb can provide you with a much-needed breather—just repeat as necessary until your child is satisfied!
4. Laundry Adventure
Duration: 5 minutes
Why not utilize that never-ending pile of laundry for entertainment? Leave your laundry basket open or your bottom drawer ajar, and let your little one explore. This can turn into an imaginative play session. Just be sure to supervise from a comfortable position to prevent any accidents.
5. The Ultimate Sleep Investment
Duration: As long as needed
If you find yourself wishing for just a bit more sleep, it may be time to consider hiring a babysitter for those tough mornings. Finding someone reliable can be a lifesaver, allowing you to rest and recharge. Look for a sitter who can engage your child while you catch up on much-needed rest.
For additional insights and resources related to home insemination, be sure to visit our other blog post here. If you’re on a fertility journey, Make a Mom offers valuable information. Also, for anyone navigating pregnancy, March of Dimes is an excellent resource to consider.
In summary, parenting can be exhausting, but with a few creative strategies, you can keep your child entertained even on your most tired days. Utilizing everyday items and engaging your toddler in simple activities can provide you with the necessary moments of rest.