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Sunday 30 September 2018

How to Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate

Cookie dough hot chocolate puts an even sweeter twist on your classic cup of hot chocolate. Topped off with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and mini chocolate chip cookies, this tasty cup of hot chocolate will warm you up on cold days.

  • Makes: 4 servings

EditIngredients

EditSteps

  1. Rim your mugs or glasses with chocolate. Dip the mugs in melted chocolate, only covering the rims. Let the chocolate harden for about 10-15 minutes.
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 1.jpg
  2. Whisk the ice cream, butter, brown sugar, and cocoa powder in a large pot. Whisk over medium-high heat until the ice cream fully melts.
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 2.jpg
  3. Pour in the milk. Stir in the milk with a whisk and mix until the mixture starts to steam.
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 3.jpg
  4. Carefully pour the hot chocolate into the mugs.
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 4.jpg
  5. Decorate the cookie dough hot chocolate. Top the hot chocolate with a dollop of whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, and mini chocolate chip cookies.
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 5.jpg
  6. Serve immediately. Place the hot chocolate mugs on a serving tray next to a bowl of cookie dough. Enjoy!
    Make Cookie Dough Hot Chocolate Step 6.jpg

EditTips

  • You can also substitute water for milk.
  • For an extra chocolatey taste, add one pint of chocolate ice cream in with the cookie dough ice cream.
  • Squirt chocolate or vanilla syrup over the hot chocolate for a sweeter taste.

EditWarnings

  • Take caution not to over-cook the hot chocolate mixture, or the ice cream will burn.
  • Avoid topping the hot chocolate with whipped cream when it's extremely hot, or it will melt.

EditThings You'll Need

  • 4 mugs or heat-resistant glasses
  • Stovetop
  • Whisk
  • Pot
  • Spoon
  • Serving tray

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations



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How to Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that you can use to make burgers, taco meat, spaghetti sauce, and so much more. If you have beef in your fridge and you’re not sure if it’s still good to use, you can check in a few easy ways to see if it’s spoiled. Just remember never to eat meat that’s gone bad!

EditSteps

EditInspecting the Beef

  1. Check to see if it has turned a dull brown or grey. Fresh beef will be bright red in color, but it may have a few brown spots in the middle since ground beef is taken from different parts of the cow. Your ground beef will turn more grey the longer you keep it. If all of your beef is grey rather than red or brown, it’s best to throw it away.[1]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 1 Version 5.jpg
    • Prepackaged ground beef develops a brown color on the inside because oxygen is not able to reach the center.
  2. Smell the beef to see if you notice a sour smell. Fresh beef will have a slight smell, but beef starting to go bad will smell rotten or sour. The smell is produced from gases made by some of the bacteria on your beef. If there is a strong smell, avoid eating it.[2]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 2 Version 5.jpg
    • Many bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses like salmonella cannot be smelled and can be found on fresh beef. Always cook the beef thoroughly to kill bacteria. If you don’t feel comfortable eating the beef, throw it away.
  3. Touch the meat to see if it feels slimy. Squeeze the meat in your fingers to feel its consistency. Fresh meat should break apart in your hands easily and separate into chunks. If the meat is sticky or has a slimy texture, it has most likely gone bad.[3]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 3 Version 5.jpg
    • Always wash your hands before and after you handle raw beef so you don’t spread bacteria or contaminate surfaces.
  4. Check the sell-by date on the packaging. Raw ground beef is safe to use only 1 or 2 days after the recommended sell-by date. Check the calendar to determine how many days have passed since you bought it and throw it away if it’s old.[4]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 4 Version 5.jpg

EditStoring Ground Beef Properly

  1. Store uncooked ground beef in the refrigerator at or below . If you plan to cook the beef soon, store it in your refrigerator. Beef left out at room temperature will start to form harmful bacteria within 2 hours. Never leave meat out for longer than 2 hours at room temperature, or for more than 1 hour if it is above .
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • If you don’t plan to cook your beef right away, freeze it.
  2. Cook the beef within 2 days of the sell-by date. If the beef has been in a refrigerator the whole time, it will stay fresh and safe to use up to 2 days after the date listed on the packaging. Make sure you use the beef soon after you buy it so it doesn’t go to waste.[5]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 6 Version 3.jpg
  3. Keep raw beef in the freezer for up to 4 months. Keep the beef in freezer-safe plastic bags and label them with the sell-by date listed on the packaging. Squeeze all the air out of the bag before sealing it to conserve freezer space.[6]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • You may start to notice white freezer spots on the beef after a few months. These areas can be cut off if there are only a few. Otherwise, throw the meat away.
  4. Thaw the beef in the fridge or in a sink filled with cold water. Transfer the frozen beef to the fridge 1 to 2 days before you plan to use it so it has time to completely thaw. If you want to thaw the meat in the sink, fill your sink with cold water and submerge the beef. Change the water every 30 minutes until it’s completely thawed.[7]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • Beef thawed with water needs to be cooked right away.
    • Never leave the meat to thaw at room temperature.
    • Beef can be thawed in the microwave but it needs to be cooked right after it’s finished thawing to avoid any contamination.
  5. Cook ground beef to before storing or eating it. The only way to kill the natural bacteria in your beef is to cook it entirely. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat while you’re cooking it.[8]
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 9 Version 3.jpg
  6. Store cooked ground beef in the refrigerator or freezer. Cooked ground beef can be safely stored in the fridge for 7 days before it starts to spoil. It can also be stored for up to 8 months in the freezer. Be sure to store it in an air-tight container!
    Tell if Ground Beef Has Gone Bad Step 10.jpg

EditWarnings

  • Always cook beef to an internal temperature of .
  • Keep cold foods below and hot foods above . Anything in between these two ranges is in the “Danger Zone” and will start to develop bacteria.
  • Wash your hands after handling raw beef so you don’t contaminate other surfaces.

EditSources and Citations


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Saturday 29 September 2018

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pass by those jars of pumpkin pie spice at the grocery store. You can easily make this mix of spices using seasonings that you likely have in your pantry. By making your own blend, you can adjust the quantities according to your own personal taste and also save some money. Store the mix for up to 1 year and use it in pumpkin pie, baked goods, coffee, and roasted vegetables.

EditIngredients

  • 1 tablespoon (8 g) ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons (2 g) ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon(1 g) ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) ground mace or cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) ground nutmeg

Makes 2 1/3 tablespoons (13.5 g) of spice

EditSteps

EditMixing and Storing the Spice

  1. Measure all of the spices into a bowl. Put 1 tablespoon (8 g) of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons (2 g) of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of allspice, 1/2 teaspoon(1 g) of ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground mace or cardamom, and 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground nutmeg into a bowl or dish.[1]

    • It's fine to use purchased, ground spices although freshly ground spices will have a more pungent flavor.
    • You can easily scale the recipe up. Just double or triple the ingredients and put them in a larger bowl.
  2. Whisk the spices until they're combined. Break up any lumps and keep whisking until the spices are a uniform brown color.[2]

    • If you don't have a whisk, use a spoon or fork instead.
  3. Store the pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container at room temperature. Use a small jar or old spice container with a sturdy lid. Keep the pumpkin pie spice out of direct sunlight so the spices stay flavorful for longer.[3]

    • Consider using a funnel to transfer the spice into the storage container or jar.
    • Try to use the pumpkin pie spice within 1 year.

EditUsing Pumpkin Pie Spice

  1. Use 1 3/4 teaspoons (8.5 g) of spice in pumpkin pie. Instead of measuring cinnamon, ginger, and cloves as called for in a recipe for pumpkin pie, use the spice mix. Stir the spice into the filling mixture until it's incorporated and then bake the pie according to your recipe instructions.[4]
    Make Pumpkin Pie Step 7 Version 4.jpg
  2. Beat 1 teaspoon (1.8 g) of spice into whipped cream or frosting. Make your favorite buttercream or whipped cream even more flavorful. Add the spice to heavy cream or your buttercream ingredients and then beat the mixture until the cream is whipped or the frosting is fluffy.[5]

    • To make pumpkin pie spice cream cheese, soften a package of cream cheese until it's at room temperature. Then beat in pumpkin pie spice and sugar according to your taste. Spread the cream cheese on bagels.
  3. Brew pumpkin pie spice coffee or stir it into hot cocoa. Prepare your coffee as you normally do, but add 1 tablespoon (6 g) of pumpkin pie spice in with the coffee grounds. The spice will flavor the coffee as it brews. If you prefer, stir 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 g) of spice into your favorite hot cocoa.[6]

    • You can also stir pumpkin pie spice into white hot chocolate.
  4. Blend 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 g) of spice into batter for baked goods. For every 1 cup of batter, add 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 g) of spice when you mix in the dry ingredients. Pumpkin pie spice is great in pancakes, waffles, muffins, and quick breads.[7]

    • Try adding pumpkin pie spice to granola. Drizzle the oats with a little maple syrup to add sweetness.
  5. Mix 2 teaspoons (4 g) of spice into roasted vegetables. Cut your choice of vegetables into 1 to 2 in (2.5 to 5 cm) pieces and place them on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle the vegetables with oil and toss them with the pumpkin pie spice. Roast the vegetables at for 20 to 40 minutes.[8]

    • Consider using a mix of carrots, sweet potatoes, and onions.
    • You can also blend pumpkin pie spice into blended vegetable soups such as sweet potato, potato, or cauliflower.
  6. Toss 1 1/2 tablespoons (8 g) of spice into 8 cups (64 g) of popcorn. Make or buy 8 cups (64 g) of popcorn and place it in a large bowl. Drizzle a little butter over the popcorn and sprinkle the pumpkin pie spice over it. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the seasoning into the popcorn.[9]

    • For a sweet popcorn, make a quick caramel sauce and pour it over the popcorn. Then toss in the pumpkin pie spice and white chocolate chips.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Measuring spoons
  • Bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Storage container or spice jar

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing

Have you ever written an essay and gotten a dead hand after a while? Although this might seem like a minor nuisance, the wrong posture and grip can actually cause some nasty problems in the long-term. To make writing as comfortable as possible and avoid hand pain, you should take some time to learn the best writing techniques and tips to soothe pains.

EditSteps

EditPracticing Good Writing Technique

  1. Choose a pen or pencil that is comfortable. In general, look for a wider barrel (larger diameter) with a padded grip.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Make sure the pen writes smoothly, without skipping or dragging along the page.
    • Avoid buying pens that rattle or leave behind blotches of ink.
    • Light pens are easier to balance, making them more ideal for writing for longer periods of time. For pencils, try heavier grades of lead like 2B, which allow for lighter grips.[1]
  2. Grasp the pen loosely. Do not clench your fingers around the pen or grip it too tightly. You don't need to strangle it—just pull it against the page. Imagine you're writing with a quill. Remember: people wrote for hours using quills, and they definitely weren't holding them tightly.[2]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • Hold the pen from the back, leaving more space at the side of it with the writing tip.[3]
    • Fountain pens are ideal for most writers, as they don't require a lot of pressure against the page.
    • Avoid ballpoint pens if you're not comfortable with them, as their design requires you to apply more pressure against the page. They also tend to be made cheaply.[4]
  3. Write slowly when you start using new grips. If you've been using improper grip and are just beginning to get used to a new one, always start slow. It's going to take a while for your muscle memory to start developing, so work your way up to faster speeds only when you have your positioning right and your writing is neat.[5]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • Don't get discouraged and switch to improper writing techniques, even if you're faster at them.
  4. Press the pen gently against the page. Get a good pen so you don't have to press hard, then pull the pen lightly and evenly against the paper. If you prefer to use a pencil, try the next softest lead.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • Try a gel or rollerball pen. If you write often for long periods of time, these are great investments. Some gel and liquid inks may also flow smoothly enough to help discourage you from clenching and pressing.
  5. Write with your arm, not your fingers. Writing is not drawing! Keep your hand and wrist still, and move your whole arm using the elbow and shoulder (like you are writing on a whiteboard). Avoid using your finger muscles—this might seem counterintuitive, but your fingers should only be used to support your pen or pencil.[6]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • The most common grip is between your first and middle fingers, using your thumb to hold the pen or pencil in place. Another grip is placing your middle and index finger on top, using your thumb to hold the pen or pencil in place.[7]
    • A less common grip is holding your pen or pencil between your first and middle fingers, using your thumb to hold it in place.
    • Calligraphers (who are very practiced writers) hold their writing instruments with their thumb and forefinger, resting the pen gently on top of their forefingers' knuckle.
  6. Look at your hand position and evaluate it. You may not have paid much attention to how to hold a pen since you were in early elementary school, but pay attention now.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • Is your hand position neutral? Try to hold your wrist straight and don't turn or bend it as you write.
    • Are you reaching or straining in any way to reach the page or the desk? Move the desk, chair, and paper until you are comfortable.
    • Is the rest of your work space comfortable? Are the chair and desk at the right heights for you? Can you see and reach the page without straining or crouching? Are other items you need (such as the stapler or telephone) within easy reach?
    • Is your wrist, arm, and elbow supported, at least when you are not actively writing?
  7. Practice good posture. Sit up straight with your shoulders back, your chest out, and avoid leaning over the desk. If you lean over your work, your neck, shoulders, and arms will tire out much faster.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • For longer writing sessions, vary your posture. Lean one way and the other in your chair, and try to lean back every now and then.
    • Always make sure you can breathe properly—slouching can lead to reduced oxygen levels because the position causes you to breath from the top of your lungs instead of the bottom, which isn't as effective due to less gravity.[8]

EditTaking Regular Breaks

  1. Take breaks to put less strain on your body. Leave yourself extra time for writing. Unless this is the big, final test and you have no choice, stand up every hour (or less) and walk around for a minute or two. Relax your hands, arms, and wrists during this time.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • Take walks outside if you have the time.
  2. Set down the pen any time you're not writing. For instance, if you pause for a few moments to compose your next thought, set the pen down, relax your hand, recline in your chair, and even stand up and walk around a bit.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • Take the time to do some quick hand and finger exercises.
  3. Limit total daily writing time. If you've been writing for several hours, come back later or even the next day. Try and spread out the total writing time across as many days as possible. This is tough when it comes to school and work, but you should do it whenever you get the chance.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • If you have a lot to write, try writing in several smaller sessions rather than one long one.
  4. Engage in a different activity the next day. If a test, writing assignment, or some important thought kept you writing extensively yesterday, use today to get some exercise. Take a stroll outside and get enough outside time to relieve stress.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • Decreasing stress by getting outside and doing other activities is especially important for creative writing and preventing writer's block.

EditStretching Your Hands

  1. Lift your wrist as high as it will go with fingers dangling. Image that you're hanging a cloth ribbon on a clothesline above your head. Lift your fingers, drop your wrist, and slowly lower your wrist. Be sure to lower your wrist as far as it will go. Imagine that you are smoothing out the ribbon. Afterwards, slowly raise your hand again, as if you have a balloon attached to your wrist.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • Repeat the process from the beginning with your opposite arm about 5 to 100 times.
  2. Perform hand/finger tendon glides regularly. This exercise begins with extending your fingers straight. Then, make a fist, and extend your fingers straight again.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • Do this repeatedly, but each time you make a fist, alternate between the 3 choices: a straight fist, full fist, and hook fist.[9]
  3. Conduct simple hand exercises with your writing hand. For example, grab the pen or pencil and twist it between your fingers. You can also open and close your hand, and gently stretch your fingers by moving them away from each other and then back together again.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • Regularly exercising your writing hand is important to prevent cramps.
  4. Reach out a hand with your fingers facing up and palm forward. A simple way to remember this first movement is pretending you're signaling a stop sign. Afterwards, use your left hand to gently pull your fingers toward you, bending your right hand back. Hold this position for around 15 seconds.[10]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • Repeat this exercise with both hands.
  5. Extend one of your hands in front of you and point your fingers down. Your palm should be facing your chest, and your fingers straight downwards. Take your opposing hand and gently press your fingers toward you. Hold this position for around 15 seconds.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also do this exercise with your palm facing away from you and your fingers pointed up. In this case, you still press your fingers toward you.
  6. Squeeze a stress ball to exercise your wrists and fingers. A stress ball is an easy way to stretch your fingers and wrists, while also strengthening them. This can help with stamina and reduce the likelihood of experiencing pain from writing.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • Most big-box stores and popular online suppliers sell stress balls
  7. Interlace each of your fingers and stretch outward. Make sure your palms are facing away from you when you stretch your arms out in the opposite direction. Then, while holding your arms outward, reach them toward the ceiling, keeping your shoulders lengthened in line with your back.[11]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 18 Version 2.jpg
    • Hold this position for around 10 to 15 seconds.
    • This exercise stretches your fingers, hands, and forearms, and also improves circulation.

EditExploring Medical Options

  1. Talk to your doctor if you experience frequent pain. If you're experiencing pain that doesn't respond to measures you can take yourself, talk to a doctor. If most of your writing is for school or work, ask whether accommodations or arrangements can be made. Your doctor can make recommendations and help you implement them to make your work more manageable.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • Some solutions include a workspace more suited to your size or work habits (e.g. a chair and table of a more suitable height, a slanted or elevated work surface), a different selection of writing implements, and a different means of writing (such as dictation or typing in lieu of writing longhand).
    • Doctor's can also refer you to an expert for an ergonomic evaluation and suggestions about your workspace and work habits.
  2. Splint your finger if arthritis flares up. Keeping on a splint for 2 to 3 weeks can help reduce inflammation during arthritis flare-ups. Measure the size of your finger to determine the size of splint to purchase and tape it to your finger using medical tape. Make sure the injured finger is properly supported and kept in a straight position.[12]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 20.jpg
    • You can also create a homemade splint using 2 straight, narrow objects (like two pieces of cardboard) by taping one to the top of your finger and one to the bottom.
    • If your fingers are tingling or numb, seek medical attention. These are signs that you're not getting enough oxygen and blood flow to the injured area.
  3. Apply a splint to your wrist to reduce inflammation. If you start to experience wrist pain, purchase a wrist splint to hold it in a neutral position and ease inflammation. You can also create a makeshift splint at home by gently wrapping your wrist with padding, such as clothing, and then securing a rigid object to the top or bottom.[13]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 21.jpg
    • Local pharmacies and online suppliers sell many kinds of splints.
    • Wear your splint for 2 to 3 weeks at nighttime. Symptoms are typically the worst at night because your hand bends more when you're sleeping.
    • Splints don't always work, but don't have side effects like medication-based treatments.
  4. Purchase nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs curb hand pain by blocking the enzymes that drive inflammation. Use topical NSAIDs like Voltaren if you can—some experts believe that they pose less health risks than oral NSAIDs like Advil and Motrin.
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 22.jpg
    • NSAIDs are not effective for carpal tunnel syndrome.
    • Using NSAIDs for long-term treatment of pain has been linked to stomach bleeding, ulcers, and increased risk of heart attacks.
    • Anti-cholinergic drugs like Artane and Cogentin are more suitable for writer's cramp (or hand dystonia).[14]
  5. Ask your doctor about corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. These injections go right into the affected joints to ease inflammation. They can provide relief lasting for up to a year, although some people report diminishing returns as injection number goes up.[15]
    Prevent Hand Pain from Excessive Writing Step 23.jpg
    • Steroid injections are typically used to treat tendonitis, arthritis trigger fingers, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff tendonitis.
    • Side effects of corticosteroid injections include a "flare," which is pain felt 1 or 2 days following the injection, as well as increased blood sugar, skin thinning, skin lightening, tendon weakening, and in rare cases, allergic reactions.

EditTips

  • If your hand continues to ache, relax for about 5 minutes. It may be enough just to give your hand a rest.
  • Try a hand massage to relax tight muscles.
  • Make sure your arm is supported while you write. If you have to support the weight alone the whole time, you will tire more quickly.
  • Purchase a document stand, slanted drafting or writing table, or lap desk to arrange your work comfortably.
  • Try different types of comfort pens. Do a web search on "Ezgrip," "Pen Again," or Pilot's "Dr. Grip" line.
  • Step back from your writing now and then. If you tend to get absorbed in your work, set a timer. If what you are writing is making you tense (because it is an important subject to you or because you will be graded on it, for instance), consciously relax your mind and body from time to time as you write.
  • Try using a different method instead of writing, such as typing.
  • If you use a computer to type, always keep your wrist position neutral. Do not bend your wrists in, out, up, or down while you type. Make sure your arm position and body positions are neutral, and do not hammer the keys. Computers, unlike typewriters, work best if you use a light touch, and you'll be far gentler on your hands.
  • Try not to press hard on the paper you're writing on. It only makes your hand hurt worse, it doesn't look good on paper, and it's also harder to erase.

EditWarnings

  • This article focuses on hand pain from writing, but other close work that uses fine motor skills can cause hand pain, as well. If you do needlework or other fine work, you may be adding to the effects.
  • Continuous pain can lead to hand problems if you continue to write. If your pain is severe or does not stop, ask a doctor to help you decide on the proper preventative measures.
  • Extended writing and other close activities can also cause strain to the back, neck, arms, and eyes, especially if your workspace is arranged poorly. If you experience pain elsewhere when writing, don't ignore it.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

__

EditQuick Summary


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Friday 28 September 2018

How to Entertain a Toddler

Toddlers tend to have boundless energy, short attention spans, and an eagerness to interact with others. This means that keeping them entertained involves a lot of active engagement on your part. However, toddlers can also be enthralled by simple things, like copying you or playing with a box, and love activities that put them “in charge.” So be creative, keep it simple, and have fun!

EditSteps

EditSharing Fun Activities in Your Home

  1. Play dress-up together. If a toddler sees you putting on a tie or a necklace, they usually want to do the same thing. Pile up some clothes near a big mirror and have a dress-up fashion show! Or, get fancied up for a tea party or a “business meeting.”[1]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Toddlers also like to mimic adults doing things like shaving or styling their hair. Look for a toddler-friendly shaving or hair styling kit so they can follow along with you.
  2. Write cards or letters to friends and family. Toddlers can add a unique artistic touch to any card or letter. Give them their own sheet of paper or card to work on while you write yours, then send them both to a friend or loved one. Or, write the card or letter, then let them “spruce it up” a bit.[2]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 2 Version 3.jpg
  3. Let them choose the stories you’ll read. This is one of the simplest ways to let a toddler feel like they’re in control. Be warned, though—this may mean you’ll read the same book over and over again![3]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 3 Version 4.jpg
    • To make things a bit easier, you can present them with 2 options and let them decide—“Do you want to read this book or this one?” They’ll still feel like they’re the one making the call.
  4. Play “follow the leader” as the follower. Most toddlers will relish the chance to be the one giving you orders. Let them lead you (and anyone else playing along) around the house, throughout the yard, or both![4]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • If they’re able to get the hang of the game “Simon says” as the follower, you can also give them the chance to be the one giving the commands.
    • You can also get your toddler used to following and giving directions by starting out with follow-along songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”
  5. Create music with them as the composer. Pull out some musical toys to play with, or just get out some pots and pans to bang away on. Ask them to make up the song and start playing, and then you can join in and make a beautiful racket together![5]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • You may want to set up a recital or concert for an audience of stuffed animals.
  6. Let them pick from a rotating selection of toys. Toddlers like to choose which toys to play with, but letting them choose from everything can be overwhelming for them—and for you when it’s time to clean up! Instead of keeping every toy accessible, rotate some of the toys in and out of circulation every few days.[6]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • This can make old toys feel like new again.
    • It can also make storing toys easier, as only a certain number of toys need to be kept in spots easily accessible to your toddler.
  7. Have a dance party to their favorite music. Put on a CD of their favorite toddler tunes, or pull up a toddler music channel on your favorite streaming app. But don’t just sit back and watch them create new dance moves—join in![7]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • Record them dancing on your smartphone and then play it back to them. Kids usually love watching themselves get down!

EditEntertaining Them Outdoors and Away from Home

  1. Take a walk and let them choose the route. This helps them burn off some energy and be the person in charge. Depending on their age, they can either direct you from their stroller or lead you by the hand.[8]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • Consider limiting them to 2 options in order to make things a little easier—“Should we turn this way or this way?”
  2. Go for a nature walk and collect items. Bring along a bag or bucket and let them decide (within reason) what to pick up. You could look for pine cones, leaves, rocks, dandelions, or whatever else interests them.[9]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • You might help them create a nature collage or leaf book when you get back home.
    • If they’re collecting things you don’t really want to drag home, you can usually discard items as you go without them noticing.
  3. Set up a sandbox in your yard. If you’re handy, you can build one yourself, or buy a pre-made one. In any case, toddlers will love to dig in, fill buckets, build castles, and have a sandy good time!
    Entertain a Toddler Step 10 Version 4.jpg
    • Grab a bag of sand toys, or just use some plastic measuring cups, drinking cups, spoons, etc.
    • Make sure the sandbox has a cover for when it’s not being used. It can be a health hazard if animals start using it as a litter box.
  4. Go with them to a toddler-friendly playground. Toddlers can have a blast on slides, swings, and other playground classics, but look for playgrounds that are designed with toddlers in mind. Look for swings that have deep seats with leg openings to secure a toddler in place, and slides that aren’t too high or fast. The playground should also have a soft surface for them to run (and inevitably fall) on.[10]
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    • Toddlers need close supervision at all times while on a playground, even if it is designed for kids their age. Don’t just sit on the bench and check in occasionally—walk around with them and help them enjoy their playtime safely.
  5. Put on rain boots and jump in puddles. A rainy day does not need to be an impediment to a toddler having fun outside. Grab their raincoat, boots, and umbrella and let them find the biggest puddles around. Even better, put your rain gear on and splash along with them.[11]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • Use common sense, of course. Taking a toddler out in a light rain shower is fine; in a thunderstorm, not so much.
  6. Find a pool, gym, or indoor play area nearby. If the weather simply isn’t cooperating, don’t feel like you have to keep a toddler cooped up in the house. If they’re familiar with the water and you have the proper gear, take them to an indoor or outdoor swimming pool. During a summer heat wave or a cold winter, an indoor play area at your local shopping mall can make a nice retreat.[12]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Never take pool safety for granted with toddlers. Make sure they have an approved life jacket that fits properly, and supervise them closely at all times.
  7. Take them to a children’s museum. If you have a children’s museum nearby, you’ll find it to be a great place for keeping a toddler actively engaged for hours. Children’s museums have lots of hands-on activities geared toward younger kids, and you don’t have to worry too much about them breaking anything![13]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • While not as fully kid-centric, science, art, and history museums often have kid-friendly areas or programs as well. Your local library might also have an area where kids can read and play.
  8. Play classic games in cars, planes, or restaurants. It’s hard for a toddler to remain cooped up in any one spot for more than a few minutes. Keeping them engaged with simple games like “I spy” can help distract them from the boredom of being stuck in the same spot.[14]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also try putting a selection of items on the restaurant table or airplane seat tray, taking something away while the toddler covers their eyes, and asking them to figure out what’s missing.
    • Sing-alongs, whether backed up by your stereo or not, are a great choice for car rides.

EditKeeping Them Occupied While You Work a Bit

  1. Let them help you clean. If you need to dust, give them their own little dusting wand and let them clean off low shelves and non-breakable items. If you’re doing laundry, work on color recognition together while sorting clothes. If you want to vacuum, get them a toy vacuum so they can follow you around with it.[15]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • Generally speaking, they won’t actually be helping you clean, and will often make things a little bit less clean in the process. Learn to embrace it, and enjoy watching them try!
    • Offer your toddler toy versions of your broom, dustpan, or other cleaning supplies, and let them follow along with you as you clean.
  2. Help them “bake cookies” with play dough. Older toddlers may be able to help you with your baking by stirring batters or using plastic cookie cutters. For younger toddlers, you can set up a workstation on the kitchen table or floor and let them do their own “baking” while you do yours.[16]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • Buy or make play dough for them to use and provide plastic cookie cutters and utensils, and a few old baking sheets. You can compare the looks of your resulting cookie creations!
    • Even if you do make homemade play dough out of ingredients in your pantry, make sure your toddler doesn’t eat it.
    • If your toddler is old enough, let them use plastic cookie cutters to cut out real cookie dough and help you put the cookies on the baking sheet.
  3. Rake leaves or do other yard work together. Instead of trying to squeeze in some yard work while they’re napping, bring your toddler outside to help. While they’ll probably make it take longer to actually rake the leaves, you’ll both enjoy it when they start jumping in the leaf pile![17]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 18 Version 3.jpg
    • Some toddlers might also like to help pick up sticks and twigs, pull weeds, or clear small amounts of snow.
  4. Create a safe play space for them. If you need to get some work done, it’s important to remember that you can’t really take your eyes off a toddler for more than a few seconds at a time. You need to make sure you’re situated in a spot where you can see them clearly, and that the play area is properly toddler-proofed.[18]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • If you’re letting them play in your home office, for instance, make sure you protect or remove any electrical or wiring hazards, sharp objects, hard surfaces, and choking hazards. It may be better, in fact, to set up a mini workspace for yourself in the child’s typical play area.
  5. Record yourself reading their favorite books. Reading directly to a toddler is much more interactive and personal, of course. But, when you need to get a few things done, handing them one of their books while you play audio of you reading it can provide a useful distraction.[19]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 20 Version 2.jpg
    • You could also create a video of yourself reading the book and holding up the pictures, then play it back on a TV or other screen.
  6. Give them a cardboard box to play with. Every parent of a toddler has seen it happen—their kid ends up more interested in the box the toy came in than the toy itself. So, at least sometimes, just skip the toy part and provide them with an empty cardboard box or 2 to create and play with.[20]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 21 Version 3.jpg
    • With a little help from you, toddlers can find nearly limitless uses for a simple box. It can be a spaceship, a puppet stage, a mailbox, a hiding spot, and so much more!
    • Play with your toddler and give them some ideas about how to use the box. This will inspire their creativity, and they may soon start coming up with ideas on their own!
  7. Set up play-dates with other toddlers. When you’re tired and frazzled, adding more toddlers to the mix may seem like the last thing you want to do. However, the kids will help to keep each other occupied, meaning you can become more of a supervisor than an active participant for at least a little while. And, if you invite other parent(s) with their toddler(s) for a play-date, you can take turns with them being the primary lookout for the kids.[21]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 22 Version 3.jpg
    • See if you can set up weekly play-dates at a local park, or rotate them among several homes with toddlers.
  8. Have the next activity ready to go when they get bored. Toddlers have short attention spans, so you have to plan ahead if you want to keep them occupied for more than a couple minutes at a time. When they suddenly lose interest in the pots and pans they were banging on, for example, have some building blocks or art supplies ready to go.[22]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 23.jpg
    • There is one thing that can invariably keep a toddler occupied for a long stretch of time—you! Make the most of the full attention your toddler wants to give you—they’ll be off to school and making friends before you know it!
  9. Rely on TV or screen time only as a temporary last resort. Plopping a toddler in front of a TV or other screen to keep them occupied should only be a short-term alternative when you don't have better options. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for kids under 18 months, very limited screen time with an adult watching along at 18-24 months, and no more than 1 hour per day of solo screen time from 2-5 years.[23]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 24.jpg
    • Choose educational programming with limited or no advertising, and watch along with them whenever possible.
    • To make things a bit more engaging, help them set up their dolls or stuffed animals in chairs to create a "movie theater." You might even make up tickets to sell for the show![24]
    • Or, drag out some home movies for them to watch. Toddlers are often fascinated by seeing themselves on the big screen, and they might be especially intrigued by seeing themselves as a tiny baby!

EditTips

  • Let the toddler be in charge of a game, like letting them be the teacher if you're playing school.
  • If you're babysitting, try having a "surprise bag"—put in some toys like bouncy balls, stickers, mini stuffed animals, etc. Tell them they’ll get to pull an item from the surprise bag every hour so long as they are playing nicely.

EditWarnings

  • Be prepared to listen to the same song 10 times, or to do something repetitive for a long time.
  • Avoid anything dangerous, and keep an eye on the toddler at all times.
  • When giving a snack, make sure that the toddler can't choke on anything.
  • Although it's tempting to let a TV, computer, or tablet screen entertain a toddler, unattended screen time for toddlers is highly discouraged by experts. If the toddler is watching a show or playing a video game, make sure it is educational in nature and play along with them to make it more interactive.[25]

EditThings You'll Need

  • Craft supplies
  • CD player and CDs
  • Favorite movies
  • Dress-up clothes
  • Games
  • Plenty of patience

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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