HOW ΤΟ SPEND 2 HOURS WITH A TODDLER

HOW ΤΟ SPEND 2 HOURS WITH A TODDLER

STEP 1

Break the ice. You may need to deal with some stranger anxiety. Distract him by asking about his favorite books or characters. Have him explain the character. You'll be as entertained as he will. (The focus should always be on the child, so resist the urge to match his interests with your own superhero obsessions.)

STEP 2

Head outside. Be silly and imaginative. Go searching for leprechauns or fairies. (Remember that toddlers have poor balance, so watch the tyke carefully.) Or take a bucket of water and a paintbrush and "paint" on the sidewalk. The kid will love seeing the art evaporate in the sun before doing it again.

STEP 3

Act out a bit. After you've worn the kid out, grab a picture book; reading is a great brain-building experience. But spice things up by using props. A story about a knight comes to life when you re-create the scene by making a castle out of couch cushions, chairs, and sheets