Your 1 Year Old Toddler Week 26

Let Your Child Make a Gigantic Mess

Does your toddler have an inner Picasso just dying to get out? If so, then 18 months is the perfect time to find out. Give your toddler a washable crayon and sheets of paper and watch him go as he… scribbles. Yup. Scribbles. Put the MENSA application away, this is going to get messy.

RELATED: How To Get Crayon Off Walls And A Bunch Of Other Stuff — Because, Kids

Let your kid make a giant mess in one contained area. Okay, even we just laughed reading that — of course mess will get everywhere! Don’t have an art easel? No problem! Got a flexible personality thanks to your box of wine? Even better. Let your child color on the refrigerator with washable markers that clean off easily with baby wipes. This idea doubles as a brilliant way to keep your kid occupied while you try to cook dinner or toss in more laundry.

Art projects not your thing? 18-month-olds are social little guys, so now is a great time to think about setting up a play date. Making friends and playing is a great way to burn off the afternoon hours and all that toddler energy.

Scary Mommy Tip: Are you one of those moms who would rather run screaming for the hills than do a craft project? Don’t worry, it isn’t for everyone. Mom guilt will creep up on you from time to time for not wanting to do certain activities, but take heart! There’s no law that says you must love glitter and hot glue guns, hopscotch or mud pies. Find activities that will encourage your child to explore and learn without making you lose your shit.

HOMEWORK:

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