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If you're anything like me, you're juggling the chaos of motherhood with a baby on your hip (or boob), a toddler underfoot, and a big kid who always seems to be proclaiming, "I'm bored, Mom!" At first, I used to panic at those three words. Now? I've got a secret stash of sanity-saving activities that not only entertain my kids but also give me a little breathing space. And yes, most of them don’t involve screens or glitter (because seriously, who has the time or energy to scrape glitter off the floor?).
As a breastfeeding mom of three, I get it. Life is beautifully messy. Between nursing sessions, cooking, cleaning, and trying to have a moment to breathe (or even pee alone!), the last thing you want is to be scrambling for activity ideas. That’s why I created this list based on real-life trial and error.
Kitchen Sink Splash Time
This one is for the toddlers. While you're cooking or nursing, let your little one stand at the kitchen sink (with a sturdy stool and close supervision) and play with cups, spoons, and bubbles. It buys you at least 20 minutes of quiet.
Tip: Add a few drops of dish soap and a splash of food coloring to jazz things up.
Simple Toddler Activities You Can Set Up in 5 Minutes
DIY Obstacle Course
Use pillows, chairs, and blankets to make an indoor obstacle course. Bonus points if your older kids help design it.
Why it works: It keeps kids moving and gives them a fun challenge. Plus, it can be modified for different ages.
Mommy’s Little Helper Game
Turn chores into a game. My 6-year-old loves pretending she’s on a reality show where she wins prizes (stickers or snacks) for completing tasks like folding towels or picking up toys.
How to Get Your Kids to Actually Enjoy Chores
Treasure Hunt Adventure
Make a simple map or use clues around the house. Hide a small prize at the end (like stickers, snacks, or even a silly note).
Why it works: Kids love the idea of mystery and reward. And it buys you some precious time!
Busy Box Rotation
Create a few "busy boxes" with different themes: Legos, craft supplies, sensory toys, or puzzles. Only bring one out at a time to keep them exciting.
Pro tip: Rotate them weekly to avoid boredom.
Storytime Theater
Let the kids act out their favorite books. Provide costumes (even just hats and scarves) and let them perform.
Fun twist: Record it and have a movie night with popcorn!
Nature Scavenger Hunt
Perfect for when you need to get everyone outside. Make a checklist of items to find: leaves, feathers, rocks, etc.
Download my free printable checklist here
Sensory Play with Rice or Beans
Fill a bin with dry rice or beans and add measuring cups, little toys, or figurines. This kept my toddler entertained long enough for me to breastfeed without interruption!
Easy Sensory Bin Ideas That Won’t Make a Mess
Frozen Toy Rescue
Freeze small toys in a container of water. Hand the kids tools (spoons, salt, spray bottles with warm water) and let them "rescue" their toys.
Why kids love it: It’s science, play, and challenge all in one.
Cardboard Box Creations
Got a delivery? Don’t toss the box! Let the kids turn it into a spaceship, house, or robot costume.
Pro tip: Give them markers, tape, and leftover wrapping paper.
Dance Party Countdown
Set a timer for 15 minutes and blast a kids’ playlist. Everyone dances until the timer goes off. It helps burn off excess energy and sets a fun tone.
Make-Your-Own Snack Bar
Let the kids build their own snack mix with cereal, dried fruit, crackers, etc. It gives them choice, responsibility, and something yummy.
Note: Super helpful when nursing or changing diapers!
Sticker Storybooks
Have them create stories using stickers and blank paper. My 4-year-old made an entire "zoo invasion" story this way and was occupied for a whole hour!
Bubble Wrap Stomp
Got leftover bubble wrap? Tape it to the floor and let them stomp to their heart's content.
Warning: Your house will sound like a popcorn machine, but your kids will love it.
Quiet Time Baskets
Fill a basket with books, coloring sheets, puzzles, and soft toys. This is especially helpful during baby's nap time or when you just need a breather.
Bonus tip: Set a timer to establish a routine for quiet time.
Creating a Calm Corner for Kids at Home
Motherhood is not a Pinterest board. Some days you nail it, some days you're just surviving. And that’s okay. The goal isn’t to have perfectly structured activities all day long — it’s to have tools in your pocket for the "I'm bored, Mom!" moments.
I hope this list helps you the way it has helped me. Bookmark it. Share it with another tired mom. And remember, if all else fails, a big cardboard box and a little imagination can go a long way.
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Hang in there, Mama. You've got this. ✨
