There is only so much one can do with a babe on the breast (or hooked up to a pump or busy with a bottle). Just when you get the baby latched (or machine attached or water boiling) the big kids have instant needs. "I'm hungry" "I'm bored" "I need to pee". Here are some "mom-hands-off activities" for big kids; keeping them occupied while you feed baby.
And this is all from experience, as over the past weeks I have had to come up with activity suggestions for the bigger kids that don't include my hands (or any other body parts). I've also noticed that if one ignores the call for attention during babe's feeding times - jealousy and regression ensues (recent 7 yr old quotes: "Can you put my socks on for me?", "Dumb baby!" ,"Can you put him down - I think I have lice - can you check?")
I realized the need for these activities when (the genius that I am) I rented a breast pump...on a Saturday...when the kids were home (friggin' genius right?!). Murphy's Law: close a door to do something private and the kids immediately want to know what's going on.
"Can I play with it next?" they asked through that closed door.
Me: "Um...kids...why don't you...
- Get yourself a juice box - I've put them at the front on the lower shelf of the fridge.
- Get yourself some fruit - I've put some cut apples in the green container on the lower shelf of the fridge.
- Colour me a picture - I've put your crayons and some paper on the kitchen table.
- Go choose a book and when I'm done you can read to me or I can read to you. Whatever you prefer!
- Why don't you read your magazine - the one Santa subscribed to for you?...you were so excited to see it in the mail yesterday...did I see a recipe for something with chocolate in there?
- You know all those toys in your room? Could you find something to play with (just not the paint-by-numbers please! *insert visions of paint splatter here*) while Mommy's busy...
What finally got them away from the door
- Yes, you can watch TV. (ah, the electronic babysitter)
Post Script:
All those suggestions up there? I like to think that they grow independence, self-reliance and a bit of creativity (whether you are feeding a baby or not.) It's good to have some go-to activities that don't include Mom or Dad.
And re. the lice - it's lice check week at school and the child knows that say "lice" and my attention is quickly gotten.
And re. breast pump - been there, done that, not my favourite thing. Kuddos to those who pump regularly.
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