A Newbie's Very First Question

[JenniKail]

Hi!

I'm brand new to the forums here, but this looks like the place to be for questions and encouragement regarding a more natural life and parenting style, so here I am!

I'm a SAHM to one little girl, who is 10 1/2 months old. The hubby and I are choosing to live a more simple, natural lifestyle, and so I am in the middle of my very first canning/preserving season! Which leads me to my very first question:

How do you all keep older infants, and toddlers, busy in the kitchen with you while you work? We are trying to make the transition to a more "Waldorf" living environment, and get rid of most of the noisy, plastic toys- so I'm wondering what on earth I can offer them (my own 10 1/2 mo. old and a 21mo. old that I care for every day) to keep them fairly content while I work.

Any help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Jennifer

[proudmomof4]

Hello and welcome to MDC!

Try posting in "Ages and Stages", you should get quite some input there.

[echospiritwarrior]

[lynsage]

A pot and a wooden spoon works for a lot of kids!

I've also seen people take a cabinet that's low to the floor and fill it with play food, small toys, pretend cooking utensils, etc. and that's the kids' "play spot' in the kitchen.

[JamieCatheryn]

Blocks keep my littlest one busy for longest. He also likes kitchen items, anything one can't break or choke on. I try and do the biggest jobs while he naps though, especially if it takes constant watching or is dangerous (like my soapmaking). Getting friends with kids to work on things together helps when possible, kids go play together and an adult can be spared to intervene when needed.

[tinybutterfly]

Welcome to MDC!

Yes, posting in Ages and Stages would probably help you to get more answers to your question.

[Cujobunny]

elcome

I would give the 10mo some spoons, pots, bowls, etc to play with on the floor, or wear him/her on my back if possible (they like to see what you're doing!). With a 21mo i would let him/her stand on a chair and "help".

[Baby~Braatens~Mama]

AND

[JenniKail]

Thanks everyone!

~Jenni

[Irishmommy]

Welcome to Mothering!

[Kidzaplenty]

Welcome to MDC!