We make a regular visit to our local library which runs storytime sessions. These are open to all age groups, so whether you have a new baby, toddler or kinder-aged child they are welcome. There are of course stories, but also finger plays and activities which encourage learning and friendship particularly for toddlers.

Once the storytime is over there is usually a simple toddler craft activity that might involve coloring, snipping and gluing, usually relating back to the chosen stories of the day. At the close of the session, kids are invited to select some books to take home, so it also encourages a love of reading, which I wholeheartedly endorse.

It is super cheap (usually only works out to be about $1 a week for a whole year. It is also a great way to meet other families that live in your area, and a way to save money on toys.

As we all know, toddlers can be pretty fickle with toys, so why waste money buying them things that do not really hold their attention. By using the toy library, I can see which toys my toddler really has the most fun with, and I know will be enduring. I can then go out and buy those particular toys, know that they have already been 'road-tested'!

All toddlers are different, but mine loves to paint. Now painting can be a messy clean up when there are toddlers involved, so we make it a once a week activity. She has a ball mixing colors and painting to her hearts content and I only need to do the SUPER clean up of face, hands, clothes, walls, floors....once a week!
Essentially we're both happy!

So whether its cooking, dancing around to their favorite CD, banging on pots and pans, indulge them, (put on your ear muffs if necessary) and simply enjoy watching the fun!