No Cost Toddler Playtime

On the heels of a major life decision that will make our frugal ways even more of a necessity, I realized we need some free yet fun toddler activities in our repertoire. (More on that 'major life decision' later....) So, what free toddler things can we do?

How about doing the dishes?

Okay, so the above photo isn't mine, and thankfully, that's not my sink or dishes! (Image Source)

This is what it really looked like today....

Give me a break... I was in the process of cleaning!

This afternoon, Luke 'helped' me do the dishes. What I thought would entertain him for a few minutes turned out to be a 45-minute play experience.

 

 

This boy was having so much fun that he refused to look at me as I was calling his name for a photo op! 

All I did was fill the sink with some water and the pre-rinsed dishes waiting to be washed, slide the chair over, and supervise. How easy! I was able to de-seed the pumpkin we had carved earlier in the day while Luke played happily. My floor was soaked by the end, but that's no hassle to clean.

Have you considered some play experiences like this for your toddler? They mimic real life, and your toddler gets to try real activities he will experience as he grows up. They are imaginative, fun, and free! Can't get much better than that!

So it got me thinking.... if Luke enjoyed doing the dishes so much, what other real-life games could we play?

How about sweeping, cooking, vacuuming, laundry.... If my 20-month-old son can help me with the chores, while having a really great time, I am all for it!