How to entertain a toddler when you have a newborn

If you follow my blog closely, you’ll see that I’ve had difficulty adjusting to life with two children. It’s like I kinda forgot the newborn stage and fooled myself into thinking life with a toddler and a newborn would be easy. Well I’m starting to get a handle on things and here’s some hand tips of how to entertain a toddler when you have a newborn.

Give your toddler ‘assisting’ tasks

I try get Jasper involved as much as possible with looking after Goldie. If she needs changing I’ll ask Jasper to get the wipes, I’ll let him choose her outfit and I’ll even help him put her dummy in when it falls out. I’ll ask him to get me a bottle so that we can prep the milk together and pass me a muslin cloth when needed. It just seems to keep him involved but also makes things a little easier for me.

Come up with one activity a day for stimulation

Perhaps you can make a playdough model together, or you can paint the newborns feet and make some art. Or maybe you can read a book together whilst the newborn sleeps. It can be a bit stressful at times but it is manageable to come up with one thing.  Don’t try and do more.

Go for a walk

I was so nervous about doing this at first. What if I couldn’t keep up with Jasper? Well I have slowly built up my walking route with him and not only does it get us out to look at nature/get fresh air.. it also tires him out! I have recently switched to a carrier for Goldie so I can be hands free if needed.

Have toys laid out and ready to hand

We pack Jasper’s toys away in cubes and baskets. My sister suggested putting 3 around the room for him to discover during the day and for us this usually includes window pens (for drawing), toy fruit (for cutting) and cars/trucks for wheeling around the room and chasing after.

When all fails, accept the iPad

A little bit of tablet time will be fine. If you’re stressed and need it, pass them the ipad/amazon fire. Jasper loves to play Peppa Pig games/Learning games and this little bit of time can sometimes be a godsend when trying to juggle everything. Full disclaimer… he’s got it now so I can write.

Violet x