Second- and later-born toddlers and preschoolers spend a lot of time tagging along after their big brothers and sisters, whether at home, in the neighborhood, or in Mom's Taxi. Many parents have little choice but to bring younger children along when they drive older ones to and from sports practices, lessons, and games. While Big Brother is practicing his karate kicks or Big Sister perfects her backstroke, Mom and Dad must corral toddlers and preschoolers in crowded waiting rooms or large open fields (watch out for that flying soccer ball!).
If you have tag-along toddlers, be prepared. These toys, games, and activities will help keep them busy ... maybe even busy enough for you to watch your older child's performance. And don't forget a good supply of healthy snacks!
Waiting Area Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
If you're waiting in a small area, avoid toys with loud noises or too many easily lost parts. Better choices:
- Books, especially touch-and-feel (for younger toddlers), lift-the-flap (older toddlers and preschoolers), and seek-and-find (preschoolers)
- Coloring books or sticker books (or just a few sheets of paper, crayons, and stickers)
- Lacing cards or beads
- Finger puppets
- Baby doll and a few changes of clothes
- Small cars, trains, and trucks (if there is a safe space to roll them)
- Old MP3 player loaded up with favorite songs/audiobooks
- MagnaDoodle
Outdoor, Sidelines Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
If you're outside, you may have more options since kids usually have a little space to spread out, run around or ride a trike or scooter. But if you want to keep an eye on your older child, you'll need your younger one to stay near you on a blanket or in a stroller. Any of the above suggestions work; also try:
- Sidewalk chalk (if you can position yourself near a paved path; otherwise bring a small chalkboard)
- Bubble solution in a no-spill container
- Kiddie version of whatever game big brother or sister is playing—small soccer ball, foam baseball and mitt, etc.
- Unbreakable magnifying glass, and bug habitat for any exciting finds
- Shovel and pail (for sand, dirt, pea gravel, or wood chips)
- Board game or puzzle
- Bucket of blocks or Legos (Duplos for toddlers under 4)
