3 Easy Ways to Keep Toddlers Entertained

Looking for a few moments of bliss while your little ones are at home? Same! 

We found three super easy and creative activities you can put together with ingredients from your pantry.

Though these are ideal for toddlers, older kids enjoy these activities too. We're crossing out fingers that these projects will bring you a couple minutes of peace (or at least enough time to check your email.)

Homemade Finger Paints

What You'll Need
3 tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 cups water

Directions
Combine all ingredients in a small sauce pan. Warm over low heat until mixture thickens. Cool and pour into small jars and add food coloring in each (a few drops at a time until you reach your desired color). 

Homemade Play Dough

What You'll Need
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup salt
4 teaspoons of cream of tartar
2 cups lukewarm water
2 tablespoon of vegetable or coconut oil
Quart-sized bags
Food coloring (optional)

Directions
Stir together the flour, salt and cream of tartar in a large pot. Next add the water and oil.
If you’re only making one color, add in the the color now as well.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Continue stirring until the dough has thickened and begins to form into a ball. Remove from heat and then place inside a gallon sized bag or onto wax paper. Allow to cool slightly and then knead until smooth.
If you’re adding colors after, divide the dough into balls (for how many colors you want) and then add the dough into the quart-sized bags.
Start with about 5 drops of color and add more to brighten it.
Knead the dough, while inside the bag so it doesn’t stain your hands.
Once it’s all mixed together you’re ready to play!

Sensory Station

What You'll Need
Large plastic storage container
Sensory materials (rice, popcorn kernels, dry beans, pom poms - whatever you have on hand!)

Directions
If you don't have a child-size table, set the bin on top of a tablecloth or blanket on the floor (this will make cleanup easier in case something spills). Combine all materials into the bin and set out spoons, measuring cups and some small toys inside the bin. Children will love digging their fingers into the bin and practicing scooping and pouring the materials. 

Happy playing! And if you try any of these at home, don't forget to tag us @oompatoys on social media!