Inside activities to do with Babies & Toddlers

I doubt very much that this blog will turn into a "mommy blog", but as fate would have it, we seem to be headed in that direction, despite any protest from me...

From American Baby magazine (I would link you to the original article, but it's not on the website, just the physical magazine)
When it's too cold to go out and play . . .
Top Chef
Strap baby into the high chair and narrate while you work around the kitchen and host a cooking show for them. Offer baby a few sniffs from the spice rack. Let her watch you peel and core an apple, then boil it down for a snack. If they're old enough, have them stir up some pancake batter. Children are much more likely to try food they've helped prepare.

Garage Band
Scatter around shakers, wooden spoons, pots & pans etc and make up your own tunes to rock out.

Book Club
Make sure the books are age-appropriate.  Under six months, baby'll just like being held and hearing your voice. 6-12 baby will like to grab and mouth books so make sure they're tough cardboard or fabric. Over 12 months baby will start to understand what you're saying help flip the pages.

High-Chair Art
Finger paint with edible paint, yogurt and pudding are good ideas. You may need to demonstrate first.

Splish Splash
Wash away that yogurt and pudding with some water play. Toss in a few few toys that need a scrub and you'll have one less thing to do later.

Mirror, Mirror
Carry baby from room to room to see themselves in different mirrors, pointing out their facial features and making faces at each other. During tummy time place an unbreakable toy mirror under baby to encourage her to push up and watch himself.

Mini Maid
When you're cleaning up, giving your walker a small broom, vacuum or spray bottle filled with water to help "clean up" alongside you.

Maze Craze
Set up a fort with pillows, blankets and a tent in your living room to let baby explore. When babe gets tired, you can cuddle up together under the blankets and watch a movie or just enjoy being together.

Fluff & Fold
Let your tot "help" you sort your whites and darks. Then "fold" clothes together, separating baby's from Mom & Dad's clothes.

Play Ball
One your baby can sit up, sit across from him and toss a ball between you. Add a few more as he starts to understand the exchange.