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8 No-Mess No-Prep Activities for Toddlers


I used to feel like I was up to my eye balls in toddlers. That's what happens when you have your first 2 kids just 19 months apart. But it's true what they say, they grow up. And some of my favorite "things" got tucked away in the craft closet and I nearly forgot about them. Until recently. I was itching to step my momming game up with my 2 year old. We have a lot of time together with the bigs in school and I know first hand that the toddler years are so important. Not only are they developing their personalities but they are observing everything around them and learning so much. 

Sometimes I whip out the shaving cream or craft paint. Sometimes I create elaborate projects that only hold the attention of my 2 year old for 15 minutes. But sometimes I really don't want to hassle with the mess or the prep of projects. I just want enriching activities that will hold her attention for an hour (sometimes more). Here are 8 of my favorite activities that require no mess and no prep. Well, unless you count Amazon priming it to your house "prep."

Magnetic Wooden Dress-Up People: These are so fun. They come in different themes and can be used for more than just dressing them up and making them "match." Emmie also likes to categorize each magnet based on type of clothing (pants, shoes, etc.). And they're cheap. Only $12.99, you can find them here.

Play doh: okay, lies. This one can get messy but oh my goodness does it ever keep my kids occupied. Even my bigs love a good few hours with play doh. No joke. And I still believe my play doh recipemy play doh recipe is the best.

Noodle sorting: Grab a bag of crazy mac and some cups. (Mine has lasted 7 years.) Have your child sort each type of noodle in each type of cup. It's not just a great sorting/matching activities but also helps with fine motor skills and sensory development.

Matching puzzles: These tend to work best for 4-6 year olds. I actually just donated a bunch to Maci's kindergarten class. But it never hurts to start young. Sometimes I even use them as flash cards so my tots can learn numbers and simply say what's on the pictures. You can find them here. If you prefer wood or just love Melissa & Doug (who doesn't?), try these.

 
Stamps: I mean, who knew. My kids will stamp with the best of them. And as they get older they can start making "scenes" with the stamps. Fun, creative, busy, and captivating. Find some fun ones here. Or here.

Pattern Blocks and Boards: Think I'm over doing it with Melissa & Doug? Think again. There's a reason those two geniuses stay in business. This activity is timeless and ageless. I love playing with them too. Find some here.

Rubber band Geoboards: These are great because you can buy them with guides to actually make pictures or just let creativity kick in. The fine motor skills focus it involves will keep your littles occupied for a long time. Find some here.

Wooden Lacing Cards: Great for busy hands that need to focus, even more perfect for fine motor skills practice. I got these in the dollar hot spot at Target years ago but you can also find them here.


I hope this is helpful for anyone searching for ways to keep their toddlers busy and engaged and learning and developing how they need to be. Happy playing, friends!

[This is not sponsored by Amazon or Melissa & Doug. Not that it would be, I don't have followers like that.]


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