If you’re new to babysitting or just looking for tips on dealing with a toddler, you’ve come to the right place. This blog post will give you some of our best tips for babysitting a toddler. From keeping them entertained to dealing with tantrums, we’ve got you covered. So read on, and learn everything you need to know about babysitting a toddler.
Plan ahead.
Before babysitting a toddler, ensure you know their routine and what they like to do. Planning ahead will help you organize your day accordingly and keep them entertained.
How to Keep a Toddler Entertained
One of the most important things you need to know about babysitting a toddler is how to keep them entertained. If they’re bored, they’re more likely to get into trouble. Here are some ideas for keeping a toddler entertained:
Colouring
One simple activity that can keep a toddler occupied is colouring. All you need is some crayons and a few sheets of paper, and your toddler will be entertained for at least a little while. You can even print out colouring pages from the internet if you want to mix things up.
Play-Doh
Another easy activity for toddlers is playing with Play-Doh. Toddlers love squishing and shaping the dough, which is an excellent way to use their imagination. You can buy pre-made Play-Doh kits or make your own dough.
Blocks
Blocks are another great toy for toddlers, as blocks can be used in endless ways. Your toddler can build towers, houses, or whatever their imagination comes up with. You can buy blocks explicitly made for toddlers or repurpose some of your own childhood blocks.
Puzzles
Puzzles are another classic toy that can entertain toddlers for hours on end. Start with simple puzzles with just a few pieces and work your way up to more complex puzzles as your toddler’s skills improve. You can find puzzles featuring their favourite characters or animals to make things even more fun.
Toy Cars
Most toddlers are fascinated by cars, so toy cars are always a hit. Your toddler can push them around the house, race them down the hall, or crash them into everything in sight. You can buy toy cars individually or get a set that includes a garage or other accessories.
Bubbles
Bubbles are not just for kids! Toddlers love chasing and popping bubbles, and it’s a great way to get them active. You can buy a bubble machine or make your own bubbles using this recipe. Remember to supervise your toddler closely, as bubbles can get messy.
Sandbox
A sandbox is another great toy for toddlers, providing endless fun and exploration opportunities. Your toddler can dig in the sand, build castles, and play with toys in the sandbox. If you don’t have space for a full sandbox, you can buy a small plastic one that will fit in your yard.
Go for a walk
One of the easiest things you can do to entertain your toddler is to go for a walk. Going for a walk in nature is an excellent way to get some fresh air and exercise, and it’s also an opportunity for your toddler to explore their surroundings.
Visit a park
Another great activity to keep your toddler entertained is to visit a park. Most parks have playgrounds that are perfect for toddlers. If you don’t have a park nearby, you can always take your toddler to a nearby green space or just let them play in your backyard.
Read books
Reading is not only a great way to entertain your toddler but also an excellent way to promote their cognitive development. You can read books together or let your toddler look at the pictures while you read aloud. Either way, they will enjoy spending time with their favourite stories.
Sing songs
Singing is another great activity for entertaining toddlers. You can sing nursery rhymes, children’s, or made-up songs. Songs are also an excellent opportunity to teach your toddler new words and concepts.
Play games
There are plenty of games that are perfect for toddlers, and that will help them develop new skills. Some of our favourites include matching games, memory games, and simple board games like Candyland or Chutes and Ladders.
Do crafts
Craft time is always a hit with toddlers! There are tons of simple crafts that you can do with items that you likely already have around the house. A few of our favourites include painting with washable paint, making homemade playdough, and creating collages with construction paper and glue sticks.
Cook together
Cooking is another great activity for toddlers as it helps them develop fine motor skills and learn about measurements and numbers. There are plenty of simple recipes that you can make together, such as muffins, pancakes, or cookies. Just be sure to supervise and use child-safe utensils like plastic knives or blunt-ended wooden spoons.
Dance party!
Last but not least, one of the best ways to entertain toddlers is to have a dance party! Put on their favourite tunes and let them loose – they’re sure to have a blast!
Dealing with Tantrums
Another critical thing to know about babysitting a toddler is dealing with tantrums. Toddlers are famous for throwing tantrums when they don’t get their way. Here are some tips for dealing with tantrums:
- Stay calm, and don’t lose your temper. If you lose your cool, the situation will only escalate.
- Try to reason with the child and explain why they can’t have what they want.
- If reasoning doesn’t work, distract the child with something else. Offer them a toy or take them for a walk outside.
- If all else fails, put the child in time-out until they calm down.
Be patient.
Toddlers can be very active and impatient, so be prepared to have a lot of patience when babysitting them. They may also have trouble following instructions, so be ready to repeat yourself.
Make sure they’re safe.
Toddlers are curious by nature and love to explore, so ensure that you childproof the house before they arrive. Additionally, keep an eye on them at all times to ensure they don’t get into danger.
Get outside
When babysitting a toddler, it is essential to keep them active. One way to do this is to get outside. Going for a stroll is a great way to tire them out and get some fresh air. You can take them to a park or playground if the weather is nice. Just make sure to bring along some sunscreen and insect repellent. In addition, it is crucial to keep a close eye on the toddler at all times. They are prone to wandering off, so it is best to stay within arm’s reach. By following these tips, you can ensure that both you and the toddler have a fun and safe time.
Have fun!
Toddlers are generally very active and playful, so try to join in on their games and have some fun yourself. Joining in will make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.
Babysitting a toddler can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. By following our tips, you’ll be able to keep the child entertained and prevent tantrums from happening. And at the end of the day, that’s what being a good babysitter is all about. Thanks for reading!