a pretty little mess

I'm not one to shy away from a little mess (if you are this might not be the thing for you) so bring on the rainbow rice!

This is a pretty popular activity that most teachers are very familiar with (my Kindergarten class LOVED this activity), but I thought I'd write about it because it's just so darn fun....and cheap...and easy.

If you have a toddler and you haven't tried this - go for it.  You won't be disappointed.  It'll keep your little one occupied, but you might just end up playing in it right beside them.  It's fun!  Provided you own a broom - I think you'll love it!

Here's what you need (you may have it all in the pantry)!
White rice ~ we went big and got a 20lb bag
Food Coloring ~ we love this gel variety but I'm sure anything works
Vinegar
Large ziploc bags ~ or small depending upon the amount you're making

All you have to do is:
Measure 4 cups of rice into each bag
mix 1/4 cup vinegar with a nice blob of food coloring to reach desired color
add colored vinegar to your rice and shake, shake, shake
WAIT
It takes about 4 hours to dry in the open ziploc bags BUT if you're impatient like we are, it only takes 15 minutes in a 225 degree oven.

PLAY, PLAY, PLAY,
preferably on a hard wood floor,
SWEEP, SWEEP, SWEEP
and
REPEAT.

The bonus here - it's edible - though definitely not tasty.  Pickled rice anyone?

keepin' busy!

With a sweet baby sis in the family, Carson is quickly learning that we can't always drop everything and do exactly as he pleases.  He's learned that lesson pretty quickly, but I do have a collection of emergency activities that come in handy when I just have to keep him occupied.

I've put together quite a few fun ideas that are perfect for keeping little toddlers busy when you've got to send an email, throw in a load of laundry or whip up a quick dinner.

I'm going to do a few posts on this subject, so be on the lookout for at least one a week for the next few weeks! 

The best thing about these activities is that each one fits in this men's shoe box, so they can easily be stored away (and stacked) AND they each cost less than $10.

So here's activity box #1...

Jelly Beadz
This is the easiest box there is (thanks to Amazon!).  All you need are these beadz, your plastic shoe box, and some water and you've got HOURS of fun.  Throw in some kitchen utensils and it gets even more exciting.  Honestly, I couldn't help but play with these for awhile too, they're awesome.

 

This activity is NOT for children that still put things in their mouths!  The jelly beadz are non-toxic, but they're certainly not for snacking on!