Keeping a 2yo happy in waiting rooms, on the bus

[Katico]

I'm currently 21 wks pregnant with our second child and of course, with pregnancy comes lots of appointments- bloodwork, dr's appointments, etc.  Our Dr's office is an hour away by city bus (it's not really that far but the bus route is kind of round-about)

 

My DD is 25 months and really does VERY well with these sorts of trips - she is a very patient and easy-going little girl (for which I am eternally grateful), and I try to set her up for success by carrying a few things in my bag to amuse her

 

I'd love some new ideas for things to carry.  Small, lightweight and no little pieces, but interesting enough to hold her attention for at least a few minutes.

 

I usually go with some combination of the following:

-crayons, stickers and a few colouring book pages

-a playsilk

-a small stuffed animal or doll

-a little book I had printed of pictures of DD with other family members

 

Does anyone have any other ideas?  We're only halfway through this pregnancy and I'd like to keep it fresh, yk?

[ednkirstin]

My all time favorite toy is a magna doodle.  It'd be perfect if you get a little travel size one.  My kids have spent HOURS upon HOURS playing with these things over the years.  They were very useful when we moved across the country with our 5, 3, 2 and 15 month old.  We even broke down 9 times so the trip took a lot longer than normal!  As a side note, I'd like to suggest that you never use U-haul to move...lol.

[lifeguard]

Ds' all time favourite toy is matchbox cars. REALLY easy to carry several around & anywhere can become a roadway.

[MsVyky]

I've tried all sorts of toys, and honestly, the things that keep my daughter entertained the longest are my wallet and a half-empty water bottle (She likes to shake it)

[FrugalGranolaMom]

I usually bring along a few cars or trains (DS is obssessed with trains) and a couple small books. He usually just ends up playing with my keys or cell phone.