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Whether you’re stuck inside because of rain, snow, or just one of those days, keeping a toddler entertained indoors can feel like an Olympic sport.
As a stay-at-home mom with two toddlers, I know firsthand how tough it can be. Some days go smoothly, others… not so much. When my daughter was two and I had a newborn, I found myself relying on screens more than I wanted to. And while we are not a no-screen family, I started noticing the more screen time we had, the harder our days felt.
Now, we usually stick to about 20–30 minutes of screen time a day, mostly while I’m putting the baby down for a nap. After that, we dive into what my daughter (now 3) calls “something cool.” It’s our little one-on-one time, and it’s become a favorite part of our day.
Sometimes I join in, but most days I set up something she can do on her own while I drink a hot coffee, finish a chore, or catch a breath. These three activities are simple to prep, low-mess, and toddler-approved!
1. Tissue Paper Art
A fun, hands-on craft that feels like a sensory activity too.
What you need:
How to set it up:
- Draw a simple picture on the cardstock — butterflies, pumpkins, flowers, ghosts, anything seasonal or fun!
- Cut the tissue paper into small squares (1–2 inches).
- Help your toddler crumple the squares into little balls (once they get the hang of it let them do it to extend the activity).
- Let them glue the tissue paper balls onto the drawing. You can dot the glue for them or set out a small glue “pool” for dipping.
Once it dries, you’ve got a 3D masterpiece to hang up!
2. Baking Soda Magic Colors
A toddler science activity with a big “wow” factor.
What you need:
- Cake pan or shallow dish
- Colorful paint (tempera or washable, food coloring will work in a pinch too)
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Droppers or pipettes
How to set it up:
- Cover the bottom of your pan with paint (just a thin layer, it doesn’t have to be a picture).
- Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the paint (cover the paint so you don’t see the colors).
- Pour vinegar into a cup and give your toddler a dropper.
- Let them drop vinegar over the baking soda and watch the fizzing colors come to life!
🛑 Note: This is not a taste-safe activity, so stick close while your toddler explores.
3. Magic Crayon Reveal
Simple, surprising, and kind of magical.
What you need:
- White crayon (team Crayola, always)
- Cardstock
- Watercolors or watered-down paint
- Paintbrushes
How to set it up:
- Draw a picture or shapes on the cardstock using a white crayon.
- Hand your toddler some watercolor paints and let them brush over the paper.
- Watch their face light up as the hidden picture appears!
The wax resists the paint, so the crayon drawing stays white while the rest of the page fills with color.
One Last Thing…
If I’ve learned anything through motherhood, it’s that we’re all just figuring it out as we go. Some days are messy, some are magical, but most fall somewhere in between.
I’ll never pretend our days are Pinterest-perfect. My goal is always to find activities that are easy to set up, fun for my toddler, and that give me a moment to breathe. If you’re in the same boat, I hope these help bring a little peace to your day too.
Looking for more ideas? Check out my full archive of toddler activity ideas here.
And just in case no one has told you today, you’re doing an amazing job.
xx,
Ciara
