Some time ago I came across a list of suggestions to keep my smallies (kids who aren't really kids yet, but not babies, so they're smallies) occupied while teaching the older kids.  Then I came across another list, then another, and another!  I must say, homeschooling moms, with smallies, are the most ingenius group of folks, walking the face of the earth.

Here is a list of suggestions that we've used alot in this house - and yes - they do work.

• Plastic (or cardboard) coins and a piggy bank- bought or home-made.(coffee can, lid taped securely on. slit cut in top)
• Playdoh with a plastic knife, rolling pin, cookie cutters, small plastic toys, etc.
• Chalk or light color crayons on dark construction paper.
• Easy-to-use paper punch and strips of paper.
• Stencils, paper, colored pencils.
• Lacing cards; Cardboard shape with holes punched around it. Attach yarn, wrap masking tape around the end.
• Stack cups or containers of different sizes.
• Chalk on sidewalk or steps.
• Let them "wash" a few plastic dishes. Put an egg beater, measuring cup and baster in the water.
• Arrange blocks by size, color, or shape.
• Make a necklace or snack chain with yarn (masking tape on end) and any cereal with holes; Fruitloops, Cheerios, etc.
• Flash cards; ABC’s or what ever you may have.
• Draw roads, houses, etc. on large paper or cardboard. Use cars and trucks on it.
• Beanbags and a bucket.
• Throw a blanket over a card table or a couple of chairs. Offer clothes pins. They’ll know what to do next! (even our 14 year old still loves this game - but we won't tell anyone, shhh!)
• Stickie notes and a pencil or crayon.
• A stack of puzzles.(wooden, chunky jigsaw puzzles are best for little hands)
• Tape a sheet of freezer paper or newsprint to the floor and trace around the child (have them lie still on it with their arms and legs a little outstretched) and then let them color their self portrait.