5 Ways to Entertain Your Toddler While Teaching the Older Children

Being a homeschool mom is a beautiful journey, but let’s be real—teaching older kids with a smart and sassy toddler in the mix can feel like juggling with one hand tied behind your back. After eight years of homeschooling and raising four girls, I’ve discovered some tried-and-true ways to keep my little one occupied while giving my older kids the focused attention they need. Here’s what works for us—hopefully, it can help you, too!

1. Playdough: A Lifesaver in Our Home

If there’s one thing that can keep a toddler engaged for longer than five minutes, it’s playdough. Whether she’s squishing, rolling, or cutting out shapes, my two-year-old can spend a solid chunk of time exploring all the possibilities of this squishy, colorful wonder. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some early learning—think shapes, colors, and even basic counting as you roll out little dough balls.

Pro Tip: Keep a variety of colors and a few safe tools handy, like cookie cutters or plastic utensils. The novelty keeps it interesting, and it gives you just enough time to dive into a math lesson with the older ones.

2. Big Sibling Bonding Time

One of the perks of having multiple children is that they can help out with the little ones. I like to have each of my older girls spend about 20 minutes with our toddler in an activity of their choice. Not only does this give me some uninterrupted teaching time, but it also strengthens the bond between siblings. From reading her a favorite story to building a tower with blocks, the older girls get creative, and our toddler gets to feel like she’s part of the action.

Bonus: This time also teaches the older kids patience and responsibility—an all-around win!

3. Sensory Bins: Simple, Yet Effective

When it comes to sensory bins, the simpler, the better. A bin of dried beans, some scoops, and a few containers are all you need to keep a toddler entertained. Don’t stress about making it fancy—toddlers are just as happy dumping and filling as they are with any elaborate setup. We’ve also tried rice, pasta, and even sand for a little variety.

Mess-Free Idea: Place the sensory bin inside a larger plastic tub or on a blanket to keep the mess contained. It’s a game-changer!

4. Early Learning Activities

I’ve found that introducing early learning activities during homeschool time makes my toddler feel included and keeps her busy. Simple puzzles, stacking toys, or matching games are all great options. And if you’re looking for something seasonal, check out my Fall Activity Early Learning Unit for some fun, educational ideas that will engage your little one and keep them entertained while you teach the older kids.

Mom Tip: Rotate these activities every few days to keep things fresh and exciting for your toddler.

5. Snacks… and More Snacks!

Never underestimate the power of a well-timed snack! Whether it’s a handful of crackers, some fruit, or a homemade treat, having snacks at the ready can be a lifesaver when your toddler starts to get restless. I like to keep a variety of easy-to-grab options within reach, so when the meltdowns begin, I can quickly distract her with something tasty.

Healthy Option: Try offering snacks that take a little longer to eat, like apple slices with peanut butter or a small bowl of yogurt. It buys you some extra time!

Homeschooling with a toddler can be challenging, but with a little creativity and a lot of love, you can keep your little one happy while giving your older kids the education they deserve. Remember, it’s okay to laugh through the chaos and lean on God’s grace when the day feels overwhelming. You’re doing amazing work, mama—hang in there!