How to Keep an 18-Month-Old Busy
Homeschool
Audio By Carbonatix
Easy and Educational Toddler Ideas
There’s something beautifully surreal about having grandkids around. One minute you’re enjoying a quiet house—and the next, you’re singing nursery rhymes, stepping over toy trucks, and wiping applesauce off your jeans.
Whether you’re a grandparent stepping back into toddler life, a babysitter filling in the gaps, or a loving mentor helping raise the next generation, this is for you. You don’t need a perfect plan—you just need a few playful, purposeful ideas to turn ordinary moments into lasting memories.
It’s easy to feel a little out of practice when the toddler years come back around, especially after your kids are grown. You might find yourself wondering, “What do little ones need most these days?” But here’s the good news: it’s not fancy toys or perfectly planned activities that matter most.
What truly matters is simpler than we think.
Rediscovering the Wonder of a Toddler
If it’s been a while since you’ve had a toddler around, here’s a quick reminder: they don’t need elaborate lessons or curated Pinterest perfection. What they need is presence. Your voice reading a board book. Your hands helping stack blocks. Your laughter when they throw socks into the laundry basket (and miss). So here are three ways to start:
Step 1: Read and Imagine Together
Open a book and open their world. From board books to story time, your voice brings stories to life. Add toys that spark imagination, not electricity—blocks, dolls, cars, and pretend play all invite creativity.
Step 2: Explore, Discover, and Create
Turn everyday moments into little adventures. Go on nature walks, play with puzzles, stack cups, finger paint, or build forts from couch cushions. Curiosity is the curriculum.
Step 3: Bake, Talk, and Do Life Side by Side
Even toddlers can help in the kitchen—pouring, stirring, and tasting (of course!). These moments build confidence and connection. Don’t forget to chat as you go. Conversations build vocabulary, understanding, and heart bonds.
Isn’t that beautiful and empowering? You don’t have to plan a curriculum. You just have to invite them into life.
More Simple (and Sweet) Ideas to Try:
1. Sensory Bins
Use rice, dried beans, or even water with floating toys. Add spoons and cups for scooping.
2. Toddler Baking
Let them dump pre-measured ingredients, stir muffin mix, or use a toddler-safe knife to cut bananas.
3. Books + Bubbles
Read together outside and blow bubbles between pages.
4. Nature Walks
Go slow. Talk about colors, shapes, and sounds. Pick up sticks and rocks. Let curiosity lead.
5. Music Time
Dance to silly songs. Shake maracas or spoons in a cup. Clap to the beat. Worship music works, too!
6. Play Library
Visit your local library’s toddler story time or create your own reading nook at home with board books and plushies.
7. Learning by Helping
Let your little one “help” sort laundry by color, wipe the table with a damp cloth, or load spoons into the dishwasher.
And Remember…
You’re not starting from scratch—you’re just starting again, with new eyes. That’s the beauty of homeschooling and grandparenting. We don’t have to do it all. We just get to show up and share love.
One Final Thought
The most impactful “curriculum” for any child under three is engaged adults. You don’t need to do this perfectly. You just need to be willing.
You’ve already done the hard thing—raising your own kids. This new season is all about joy, discovery, and laughter (and yes, a few messes).
You’ve got this, Grandma. Or in my case, Nana!
Have you stepped back into early learning with a grandchild or toddler? Share your favorite simple activities in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
Additional Resources
- BusyToddler.com – Simple, genius activities using what you already have at home
- ABCJesusLovesMe.com – Intentional preschool play with a faith foundation
- Pinterest – Search “18-month toddler activities” for endless inspiration
- A Year of Playing Skillfully – A great tool if you’re ready to form meaningful traditions
