How to entertain your toddler in an empty house and why I actually recommend an “empty” house.
Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when things don't go as planned. I recently heard from a client who moved across the country with their family, only to find that their belongings hadn't arrived on schedule. This is more common than you'd think, and it can leave families in a tricky situation, especially with young children. However, an empty house can also be an unexpected opportunity for creativity and fun, especially for toddlers. Here's how to turn a moving mishap into a memorable experience.
Keeping Toddlers Entertained in an Empty House
Without the usual toys and distractions, you might worry about keeping your little ones entertained. But an empty house can be a blank canvas for imaginative play. Here are some activities to consider:
Bath Fun: A bath can be a fun adventure for toddlers. Use it as a time for play with bubbles, toys, if you have any, or anything that you can get wet. Someone shared with me recently how her and her young daughter were entertained for a good deal of time by using a wet piece of string to make different shapes on the wall of the bath. It's a great way to break up the day and have some fun. You can even add color to your bath with store-bought bath drops, food coloring, or juiced fruits or vegetables (just keep in mind that some colors may cause temporary staining.)
Dance Parties: With the furniture gone, you've got plenty of space for activities! Play some music and let your toddler move around. It's a great way to burn off energy, keep in shape, and have fun together.
Dress Up: Use clothes from your suitcase to play dress-up. This can be especially fun if you let your toddler pick out outfits for you, too. It’s a simple way to spark creativity.
Hide and Seek: An empty house offers plenty of nooks and crannies for a game of hide and seek. It's a classic game that never gets old and helps your child develop problem-solving skills.
Sound Exploration: Use whatever items you have to explore different sounds. Pots and pans can become drums, if you have any, or you can clap and stomp to explore rhythms. Having a lack of rugs and furniture will give your space a once-in-a-living-there sound quality that you want to take advantage of!
Interior Design Planning: Let your toddler help you plan where things will go when your belongings arrive. It can be a fun way to involve them in the moving process and spark their interest in design. Bonus: they aren't likely to remember their suggestions so won't try and hold you to them like an older child might in this practice.
Play in the Car: If you have a car, let your child explore it while it's parked safely. They can pretend to drive, press buttons, and enjoy a change of scenery.
Wash the Car: Turn a chore into a fun activity by letting your toddler help wash the car. It’s a great way to keep them engaged and active. This can also cool you down if the window A/C units are in the yet to arrive moving van.
Window Gazing: Encourage your child to look out the window and describe what they see. It's a calming activity that can also be a learning experience. Speaking of windows, reusable stickers can provide entertainment while there isn’t any furniture to block access.
Eye Spy: Play a game of "Eye Spy" using colors or shapes around the house or neighborhood. It's a simple game that can keep them entertained and observant.
Nature Scavenger Hunt/Neighborhood Exploration: Create a simple list of items to find around your new neighborhood or just take a walk. It’s a great way to explore your new surroundings, meet neighbors, and enjoy some outdoor time.
Cooking: If you have access to a kitchen and some tools to cook with, involve your child in cooking simple meals. It's a fun and practical activity that teaches them about food and cooking. P.S. Most children are into eating in different places. Carpet and yard picnics are super fun and the latter cuts down dramatically on clean up!
Door Knocking to Introduce Yourselves: Use this time to introduce yourselves to your neighbors. It's a great way to build community and make new friends. While this is likely not in a lot of people's comfort zone, it is important to help children develop a willingness to be outgoing while teaching them about safety.
The Benefits of an "Empty" House
Children today are often surrounded by toys and constant stimuli, which can make it seem like they always need something to do. However, being in an "empty" house, without toys and distractions, can be beneficial. It gives children the space to be creative, explore their environment, and develop problem-solving skills. When kids experience moments of boredom, they learn to entertain themselves, fostering independence and imagination.
An empty house can also be a unique bonding opportunity for families. Without the distractions of screens or toys, families can engage in simple, meaningful activities together. Whether it's a dance party or a quiet moment of window gazing, these shared experiences can create lasting memories.
In conclusion, while moving mishaps can be stressful, they also offer a unique opportunity to slow down and enjoy simple pleasures. An empty house isn't a limitation; it's a blank canvas for creativity, exploration, and family bonding. Embrace the moment, and you might find that some of the best memories are made in unexpected ways. And, if you are moving, keep in mind the possibility of running into this issue, and be sure to consider your everyday needs when deciding what goes in a box and what goes in your suitcase!
Comments