Busy minds busy hands

Frugalness, my definition- the art of using less money and still having an awesome time while looking good

When I was younger, I thought that in order to live without using much money, I had to look ragged and worn and have no toys. Now that I'm older I've discovered that you can do a lot without much money.

I take care of a lot of children for my job.

Sometimes the days get a little hectic.

When you have7 different babies to feed and 5 toddlers (ages 2-5) running around, things can start going crazy... people can start going crazy.  

In order to maintain sanity, I've discovered a lot of little tricks to use with the children.

10 minute by-yourself reading time- 

yeah, they can't read, but I'm convinced it's developing the skill

30 minute grab whatever is in the cupboard and glue it to a plastic plate-

this works very well but they do need the amounts measured out for them. I make natural glue with flour and water or corn starch and water. That way, they can also taste everything.... it's a cool way to introduce new tastes to the children.

Cleaning time-

give every child a wet wash cloth and tell them to wipe... anything and everything

Movie time-

this is always an old traditional favorite of mine

Snack time-

carrots and ranch dressing always seems to be a big hit

Outside time-

this can turn out to be more tiring for me ... but it provides a change of scenery for the kids... which is always good for them

Play in your room time-

this only lasts for about 2 minutes with the younger ones... they haven't quite caught the meaning of "in your room"

Color time-

this goes very well until they all start dropping crayons on the floor and the 10 month old is found under the table... crayon poised... mouth open... 

Nap time-

another old favorite of mine... 

I'm sure there are plenty other diversions for little minds to occupy themselves. Those are a few of mine