getting started...

if you have read my blog at all recently you will know that it's been a while now that my energy levels and physical capabilities are not what they used to be earlier in my pregnancy.  i have had to get creative with new ways to keep a active toddler busy and entertained at home.  i started doing lots of homework and researching all kinds of mom and toddler blogs.  i mostly follow them on instagram.  so here is a few of my favorites...

@busytoddler (especially fond of her, a former educator and fellow WA mama)
@happytoddlerplaytime
@theworkspaceforchildren
@imaginationtree
@playfullittlelearners
@choloeuberkid
@storiesofplay
@littleoneslearn
@dayswithgrey
@where_learning_meets_play
@play_at_home_mummy
@wonder.and.awe
@littlelifelonglearners
@playfully.nurtured
@learningatheart
@littlepinelearners
@playartlearn
@learning.through.play
@myboredtoddler
@the_paige_diaries

wow!  as i write them all out, i didn't realize how many i follow.  there are some i like better than others but they all give me lots of new ideas and inspiration.  here is short video i made of the things i use to get started creating new and fun activities and sensory experiences for bowie.

and here is a list of ideas on how to get started:

**look in your drawers & cabinets to start.  but i find some cool stuff at the dollar store, garage sales, target dollar section and of course amazon!**

1. trays and bins (different sizes, shapes and colors and a cookie sheet is great for magnets)

2. sensory elements: (pick a few so you can rotate and store dried items in tupperware so it can last a long time)
~rice (rainbow rice is a big hit! and fun to make)
~dried beans
~corn kernels
~oatmeal
~corn meal
~pom poms
~drinking straws cut into 1 inch pieces
~kinetic sand
~play-doh
~slime
~shaving cream
~ice
~water beads

3. tools: (go through your kitchen drawers first)
~spatulas
~spoons & measuring cups
~funnels
~tongs
~ice cube trays
~muffin pan
~magnetic wand

4. loose elements (this is the fun part! go crazy!!!)
~magnetic letters
~foam letters & numbers
~dinosaurs
~plastic bugs
~rubber duckies
~puzzle pieces
~sea creatures
~large acrylic gems (think treasure hunt)