Toddlers: Peaceful Playtime - Grandparents.com

Even the most active grandparents need a little quiet time. Here are some activities designed to bring it down a notch.

Even grandparents need a little downtime. The best way to encourage the halcyon moments is to arm yourself with quiet-time activities and games, those that can be done sitting on the couch or together around the dining-room table. Another idea is to create a fascinating book, such as a photo album with pictures of you as a child, for those quiet times such as waiting in the doctor's office. Below are a few ideas:

Family Photo Album
Plastic photo albums can be found for less than a dollar at many stores. Put your grandchild's name on the front and tuck in photos of you and the extended family, the child's house and your house, and, of course, family pets. Label the photos on the front so that when your grandchild shares his album with others they'll know what's in the picture. Allow your grandchild to take her photo album with her to school. During times when silence is golden, this will be a welcome item to keep your little one busy. To keep it fresh and surprising, add new photos featuring your grandchild.

Pasta Necklace
Let your grandchildren string uncooked pasta on yarn to make a necklace or belt. Rigatoni and wagon wheels are the preferred pasta for kid-level crafts because the large openings make it easy to thread.

Strange Creatures
Fold a sheet into thirds. On the top third of the page, one person draws or colors the head and neck of a person or creature. Fold the paper back so that what was drawn is not visible; have the next person draw the body, followed by the next person, who draws the legs and feet, all without seeing the other pieces. Unfold the paper and have a look at your masterpiece. The person who drew last becomes the first the next time, until all players have had a chance to draw each part.