5 Ways to Survive Quarantine with a Toddler

We all know it's a hard time right now. Being stuck at home most of the time, not knowing what is going to happen or when it's going to end. It can be especially hard when you have young kids. Not only do they not understand what is going on, but they are restless and cranky (aren't we all though?) So, as a mom of a 3 year old, here are 5 ways I've made it through quarantine with a toddler:

1. Play dough

Okay play dough had been one of the most recent saviours in our house. Until recently we rarely brought it out because of the mess it makes. But, we got some play dough cutters, a bunch of different colours and BAM! It gives my son at least an hour of fun (which is kid time might as well be all day). We deal with the mixed colours and play dough bits left over everywhere but it is not only entertaining for them, it can also be good for learning! It can teach colours, shapes, numbers etc. while also being fun and allowing a little break for you!

2. Helpful chores

I have found that one thing my son has been loving lately is to try and help out around the house. Normally, these leads to more issues than it does actually being helpful. So to offset this I have been giving him “helpful” or less destructive tasks. Mixing, sweeping, vacuuming and other age-appropriate things are perfect to keep them busy while you try to get some other things done. It makes them think they are grown and helpful while allowing you to not have to walk behind them and problem solve... or constantly have to save their life as they do things.... LOL

3. Lock the bathroom door

Just do it. If your kid knows how to open doors, lock it. 5 minutes alone in the bathroom gives you just a minute to reset. Even if there is a child or children at the door, that blockade can give you a minute to have a thought to yourself and allow you to take a breath. It’s amazing what a lone pee can do when you're constantly trying to entertain a child. Just lock the door.

4. Don't feel guilty

As parents we all feel guilty sometimes. We all feel guilty for things we feel we should be doing, things maybe we did and feel we should not have done, it’s a normal part of parenting and right now it is that much worse. Remember this is a hard time or everyone, child or adult. Some days we will watch too much tv. Others we will be a tv model parent. Just don't feel guilty. Parents on social media and other platforms make it seem like they are holding it together a lot better than they are. I promise. All you have to do is keep your kid alive and healthy. They can learn more later and you can take them places again once it's safe. What you're doing now is just surviving this time.

5. Go outside

Even if it's not every day. Take your kid outside. It gets them out to burn energy. You don't have to plan an activity. You can just let them run around and hopefully go to bed early. Plus being out of the house is good for you too. It clears your head, gets rid of the dust, helps with mental health and lets you just breathe for a bit.

Hopefully this list helps you get through quarantine, even just for a while!