Changed World

Who would have thought that in 2020 we would all be told to stay home, stay safe and watch Netflix? The Corona Virus is scary and unknown. Now I am in self isolation I have stopped watching the news because it stresses me out too much.

I have worked from home for about eight years. I am used to being by myself. But I went out regularly either to the gym pre baby or to toddler classes post baby. I am on day 16 of self isolation with a wild toddler and a chilled out dog. My husband is also self-employed and is taking his job day by day at the moment.

Keeping A Toddler Entertained in Self Isolation

My daughter is 20 months old. She is very active, she wakes a couple of times through the night and hates napping during the day. She will give in eventually but then we are in to danger nap territory. In these 16 days I have learnt I have to keep her active and in as much as a routine as I can. Here are a few things which have worked.

Go Outside

Not only is it good for your mental health but it is good for your child to run about and burn off energy. This morning I spent half an hour throwing a ball for my dog and another ball for my daughter. My neighbours must think I’m mad but we all enjoy it and they both get a lot of exercise.

Build A Fort

I had an old box in my garage and I made it into a fort for my daughter. She loves it and watches Peppa Pig from inside with a snack. If you haven’t got a box why not use cushions and a sheet and build a soft den. I decided I would take lovely photo of the box fort in the garden. Willow wanted to go back inside the house, however when I returned my dog had destroyed my creation, oh well.

Get Them Involved

A chore I hate is putting washed clothes away. But I asked Willow to help me and soon she was putting her leggings into her drawer. I also asked her to help me match the socks which she surprisingly enjoyed which ended in us throwing the balled socks at each other.

Cooking

I love to cook and bake. Willow pushes a kitchen chair to the counter when she knows I am about to start making something. I made cottage pie recently and she loves watching me chop the vegetables. She steals bits of carrots and celery and when I’m not looking takes big bites out of cheese.

Video Chat

Now I am in self isolation I no longer phone my parents or in laws I now video chat with them. It means I can see them and so can Willow and I feel like I am spending time with them. I am trying to set up a video call with my mummy friends so all our little ones can see each other and interact. I will let you know how it goes.

Have Fun

I am looking at this time with Willow as a blessing. I have no pressure with events so my time is dedicated solely to my daughter. It is a big change for her as well, she is looking to me for comfort during this uncertain time. The best thing I can do is make each day fun. One day we might be cuddled up on the couch watching movies and the next exploring the garden for creepy crawlies. I am taking each day as it comes, turning off the news, giving my daughter a hug then start the day with a new adventure.