Keeping Your Child Occupied While Running Errands

Parents all know what it is like to be stuck waiting at the local auto mechanics shop. You only came for a simple in-and-out oil change, but you end up with a child that is antsy and upset, ready to go home, and crying for something to get moving. So the over-all opinion is the same on this scenario: There are always one to twelve people in the same waiting room and they don't like the sound of a crying child anymore than you do. So by the time your car is ready to go you have managed to upset three quarters of the other folks who are patiently waiting.
How about never having to deal with this again? Does that sound great or what?! Well, it is possible, but there is a certain amount of simple planning that will be needed. If you can assemble a picnic then you will have no trouble assembling a fix-the-upset-child packet.
You need a few simple tools to stuff into your fix-the-issue basket. Take a much needed break away from home and go to the nearest dollar store. These stores carry everything you can possibly imagine, for amusement in all forms, for only a buck each. Come equipped with no more than 15$ and be ready to have pleasant appointments forever (you will have to re-stock eventually).
On the craft and toy isle you will want to explore project items that draw attention and use interaction. Items such as tiny puzzles, sticker books, washable mini-marker sets with books, or hand-sized play toys (such as miniature pet shops, or polly pocket generics). You can purchase learning activity books full of many different puzzles, drawing scenarios, and dot-to-dot pictures that can be used for learning time. Flash cards are great for children in school that are learning a particular subject. You can purchase threads and work at home to teach your child to make necklace/bracelets (or rope and wallet chains for boys) and then utilize the threads and plastic rope when you are stuck in an office or waiting for the doctor.
Using your creative genius to make a one-of-a-kind activity basket, for ventures such as these, will help your child to be known as the good kids that everyone is pleased to meet (especially those who are stuck in the same room with them for an ample amount of time). You have the power to control the whining, crying, and stamping of little feet when it comes to patience. Keeping their little minds busy and distracted with creativity will actually help them to do better in other areas of their lives. You can enjoy your time with your child, even if it is time spent in a waiting room at the local DMV.







For more helpful information about raising children and spending quality family time, visit http://www.family-and-parenting.com/.