As the mother of three kids under five, I’m here to tell you that you’re going to want a busy box in your life. When my first child, Thomas, became a big brother to Daniel, I realized that finding a peaceful moment to breastfeed, rest or prepare food was a bit more challenging than I had first anticipated. And then baby Bella arrived!

For days I grew frustrated that my sons weren’t happy to play with the toys in their nursery anymore. With a new baby sister around, my boys had suddenly lost interest in toys and books that used to provide hours of entertainment.

Luckily, I learned about the concept of a Busy Box pretty quickly and let me tell you – they’re a lifesaver! I got a lightweight box that I can keep up hidden away and filled with special toys and crafts that I only bring out on special occasions AKA times when I truly need them to be occupied. Because Thomas is nearly five, I’ve had to swap out toys every six months or so, but they get passed onto his brother, Daniel, who is now just over two and loving exploring the world around him.

Below are a few of my favorite products for my kids’ Busy Boxes. I also sometimes just grab a toy or two out for trips to restaurants or the doctor’s office waiting rooms. By keeping these special treats out of sight, my kids don’t lose interest and are always excited to play, so this gives me some time to focus on the newest addition to our little family.

10 Busy Box Essentials:

 

Goober Crayons Peanut Crayons

Completely non-toxic and designed to be easy to hold for little hands, Goober Crayons are perfect for arts and crafts and drawing time.

 

Mindful & Co Kids Coloring Pack

Combining gratitude, mindfulness and the fun of coloring, this set is perfectly sized for on-the-go or rainy day fun.

 

PlanToys PlanWorld Cars

Made of child safe materials and non-toxic finishes, these wooden cars are the perfect toys for open-ended play. My boys love this set!

 

Tender Leaf Toys Space Race

Kids love playing with the Tender Leaf Toys Space Race. Get set for out of this world fun with a set of futuristic vehicles that can be deconstructed and rebuilt ensuring little ones are kept entertained and occupied for ages.

 

Tender Leaf Toys Grocery Bag

Role play toys are a fantastic way for kids to expand their vocabulary and build confidence. This shopping bag contains household favorites such as olive oil, biscuits and butter allowing children to pretend they’re doing the grocery run.

 

Petit Collage Magnetic Play – Superheroes

Contained in a box, this magnetic set allows kids to create different superheroes which enables them to use their imagination and sharpen their fine motor skills. Since we fly a lot, I love bringing it to the airport with us.

 

Petit Collage Fishing Around Wooden Game

This fishing game is a great way for kids to work on their hand-eye coordination and use their imagination to envisage they’re on an adventure casting a line somewhere picturesque!

 

Wooden Story Shape Stacker

Made of wood that comes from FSC®certified suppliers, the Wooden Shape Stacking Tower comes with 25 shapes to stack and arrange onto five wooden prongs. This will help your tot sharpen their hand-eye coordination and build their confidence.

 

Dough Parlour Set

Made from 100% non-toxic ingredients and featuring yummy scents such as Orangesicle and Banana Split, this play dough set is great for sensory play and keeping little hands busy.

 

Let Them Play Story Scene – Bundle

I just love this nature play set that features a variety of nature-themed pieces from trees to rocks that can be arranged in myriad ways – the only limit is your child’s imagination.