by Vikki McMahon

Created on: September 16, 2008

My son has that toddler sixth sense. He knows when mom is on the phone. No matter how quietly he had been playing by himself, there is suddenly an emergency of epic proportions that only Mom can solve. Instead of putting off friends and family with the overused phrase, "Can I call you later?" try one of these Mom-tested methods for quieting the fussiest toddler.

*Bag of Tricks
Have a stash of toys available to your toddler that he only sees when you are busy on the phone or elsewhere. These "new" toys will keep him occupied for quite a while. Choose a selection of small toys that you know will be of interest to him. Some good ones to have include crayons and coloring books, toy cars, small dolls or action figures, and sticker books. Since toddlers love to imitate mommy, be sure to include a toy phone and note paper as well.

*Use a Timer
Have a kitchen timer handy. When you are going to be on a phone call, set the timer for a reasonable amount of time and tell your toddler that she must play quietly by herself until the bell rings. Provide a specific activity for her to do, if possible. It may seem unlikely that this would work with some toddlers, but there is something about a timer that fascinates a child. It becomes a game to them to keep busy until they hear that magical ringer. Be prepared, however, once time is up to wrap up your phone call as quickly as possible.

*Organize a Scavenger Hunt
Make two or three separate lists of common, safe household items using recognizable pictures and keep it by the phone. When you get a phone call, grab one of the lists and let your toddler go to town collecting as many items as he can find. This works best with older toddlers who can recognize the pictures.

*Videos
This is a tried and true method for entertaining your toddler and especially effective when you have a phone call you must make. Keep two or three short videos on hand that are reserved only for times such as this. If your toddler has not watched the videos endlessly already, she is more likely to sit still for a longer period of time.

*Change of Scenery
Changing where your child is playing can redirect their interest at something other than what you are doing. If he has a playroom separate from the rest of the house, take him there. A fresh round of toys to play with is usually a big hit. If the weather permits, take him out to the front porch or patio with a few toys or some sidewalk chalk and let him go to town.

It is possible to get a few spare minutes, even with toddlers running underfoot. With a little patience and creative thinking, you will be able to relax, put your feet up, and finally enjoy that phone call.

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