Parent tip-of-the-week: Always carry crayons!

~You're waiting for dinner and your toddler is getting very restless.
~You're standing in line at the grocery store but still have 3 more customers in front of you.
~You're at the doctor's office and finished flipping through every magazine/book in the room and still have to wait. These are all scenes that we have played out with a bored toddler.

Here is a cheap, easy-to-carry tip to keep your toddler occupied when everyone's patience is wearing thin. Always carry a small bag of crayons in your purse or diaper bag. We use the snack size Ziploc bags with 4-6 crayons inside. Tuck a couple of sheets of paper in your bag and you're ready!

Children as young as 12 months (possibly younger depending on fine motor skill development) can scribble and find coloring to be entertaining. Draw pictures for them and create a learning moment in the middle of Wal-mart. If it gets you through the checkout without a meltdown, who cares what people think about your artwork. Your child will love it!

When you are at the doctor's office, your toddler can color on the paper across the exam table while you're waiting to see the doctor. When the doctor or nurse arrives, your child can show off his/her artwork. (Our eight year old still loves to draw pictures on the paper.)

Forget your paper? Most restaurants and offices will gladly give you piece of paper so don't be afraid to ask.

Hope you find this tip helpful! See you next week!