I love rifling through Pinterest as much as the next crafty, stay-at-home mom. With two toddlers under three years of age, I've tried a range of activities and toys to keep them busy: play kitchen, busy board, sensory bins, paint bags on the window. It usually ends with the youngest eating everything, the older one losing interest, a big messy trail and me shaking my fists and silently cursing Pinterest.
I also love when my toddlers play independently (without me being the preschool teacher/fun coordinator/child entertainer). I want them to learn to play:
1. With what is on hand;
2. Independently without my constant engagement;
3. How they want to play.
Slowly I've found ways to keep them independently engaged -- for longer than five minutes. Here are some ideas on key entertainment supplies and activities that will keep toddlers busy and learning -- without all the stress. I call them my "Lazy Mom Play Tips."