Suggestions for fun (for me!) play ideas?

[Caidyn]

I choose to work only two days per week so that I can spend the rest of the time with my little guy who is now 26 months. I feel like I should be spending more time playing with him and learning/teaching then I do but I find that the energy isn't always there and, I hate to say it but it bores me.  I am looking for tips for more interesting ideas (for me!) to play at this age.  We also do playdates/groups when possilbe but living quite a distance from town, it is not always possible.

Thanks!

[Mummoth]

Well, it depends... what do you want to do? My kids always enjoyed being in the garden with me, and I love gardening. DD used to stand next to me screaming "WORM!!" until I found her one to play with. I had an area that was okay for them to dig in and make mud. They can find rocks to glue together or paint with water colours... there's lots of ways to keep them entertained and included in your own hobby. 

[Natalie12]

At that age, when they're too young for games with rules and such, I think it's great to take them places. The library, where you can browse while he plays with toys. Make a date with a mama friend at the park or childrens' museum, so you have someone to talk to.

Honestly, I found it pretty boring to play with them until my kids were about 4 or so, although I've always loved reading to them.

[gitanamama]

I definitely understand feeling bored by "child's play" and simply being too exhausted to put in the energy it takes. And actually, I don't think parents were meant to spend all day alone, entertaining their kids (although that's what I find myself doing!) 

I believe that kids learn a lot just by "working" alongside their parents and being incorporated into the activities of everyday life. And right around age 2, most kids really want to help out and imitate what they see adults doing. If you like to garden, maybe you could get your little one a small watering can, bucket, and shovel. When I wash dishes, I let my little guy play with a small tray of water and a sponge on the floor by my side and he "helps" me with the laundry by moving the clothes from one basket to another. Getting out of the house also helps...even if it's just for a walk down the driveway. Your little guys is probably still too young, but story tapes are a great alternative to TV when you don't feel like reading. We didn't have a TV growing up so I remember spending long hours listening to books on tape while my mom got some much needed rest.