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Video babysitter -

Setting up a video chat for a toddler with a beloved babysitter or far-away family member can keep your little one occupied. Bonus points if they can read a story or two to keep your toddler engaged.

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Sensory box -

A sensory box is the perfect indoor, quiet play activity. Just get a sturdy box and fill it with dried beans, rice, or corn. Then fill the box with cups, toy cars, spoons, or other items for toddlers to dig and pour around in.

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Rock painting -

By holding paintbrushes and learning how to control the paint, as well as grasping the rocks, children focus on skills necessary for later writing activities. Plus, it will be a fun activity after picking rocks outside!

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Washi tape -

Washi tape is a lot easier to remove from walls and furniture than stickers. Toddlers will love having a big piece of paper or cardboard and a stash of these colorful tapes. Perfect to make some quiet art.

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Coloring -

This classic is still a crowd-pleaser. Plus it's a simple activity that sparks children's imaginations and helps them express themselves.

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Indoor swing -

An indoor swing, which can be attached to the ceiling or a door frame, is an amazing way for toddlers to burn off energy and stay busy while a nearby parent is working.

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Magna-Tiles -

Magna-Tiles are fun to play with, offer endless opportunities for creativity, and they're quiet. Just perfect!

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Shadow tracing -

This is a cool one, but you need to be outside. Have your kid collect toys or random objects and try to trace their shadows on paper.

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Cardboard box surprise -

If you have a large cardboard box lying around, take advantage of it! Give your kid a pack of crayons and allow them to decorate it as they see fit.

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Audiobook -

Audiobooks are another way for a parent to get themselves some much-needed quiet. There are plenty of toddler-friendly options on most audiobook services, plus it's an inexpensive way to get some work done.

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Puzzles -

Working on quiet activities is a great stress reliever and a way to relax while learning. It's also perfect for you while you're working!

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Pipe cleaners -

Pipe cleaners are a great art option for toddlers who like to be creative. They can be twisted, bent, glued on to paper, and more.

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Tracing paper drawings -

This activity helps toddlers strengthen fine motor control and pencil grip, and it prepares them for drawing on their own.

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Pillows -

Toddlers love to build, and they love to destroy what they've built. Pillows are perfect to turn into forts or jumping pits.

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Mini trampoline -

The best way to get toddlers to stop bouncing off the walls during the work day is to let them bounce on a mini trampoline!

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Playing with Tupperware -

Sure, it's messy. But pulling and lifting Tupperware is sort of like toddler weight lifting, as it can help build arm strength. On top of that, it will keep them busy when you're working.

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Watercolor painting -

Most children enjoy a good messy watercolor painting experience. This will allow them to freely express themselves and develop their creativity. Plus, they can learn about mixing colors.

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Bubbles -

Let's be honest: who doesn't love bubbles? Well, toddlers certainly do, and it's a great activity for developing their hand-eye and foot-eye coordination.

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Window cling -

If you don't have any, consider getting some, as these gel window clings will keep your kid occupied for ages.

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Sweeping, mopping, or dusting -

Believe it or not, kids actually love to help, especially when parents aren't micromanaging them. Give your kid a duster or broom, and encourage them to tidy. You'll hopefully have a clean space afterwards!

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Playdough -

Playdough provides a sensory experience that helps to develop fine motor skills and improve imagination, while keeping things playful. Your toddler will have love it!

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Tracing letters -

Toddlers are just starting to enter the emergent writing period, so getting them used to letters is a great way for them to learn while having fun.

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Teddy bear hospital -

Let your kid play doctor or nurse with their teddy bear and other stuffed animals. A tip is to use felt to make casts, bandages, and the like.

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Magnetic boards -

Magnetic boards are great for toddlers, as they stimulate their imagination. Plus, these boards can help them learn about the world around them. They can also make shapes and letters out of the magnetic pieces.

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The floor is lava! -

A classic game, it will give your kids the opportunity to haul every pillow they can find in the living room, where they play lava tag.

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Slime -

Messy, slimy, and kind of gross, kids love slime! It's simply the perfect distraction while you're busy working.

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Dry erase markers -

No whiteboard? No problem! Let your toddler get creative with some dry erase markers on a mirror or window.

Sources: (CafeMom) (Parents) 

See also: Bad habits parents need to break

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