Clueless on entertaining 18mo on cold Winter's days

[sharond101]

We have a nice morning routine of getting up and out a long walk with the dog then bookbug, softplay or swimming. Come afternoon I am now at a stumbling point on how to entertain him for the rest of the day (he naps for 1-2 hrs over lunchtime). In the Summer we spent alot of time in the garden or at the park which I know we can still do but it's so cold some days. At 18mo DS is into climbing on the furniture and being destructive so leaving him to it is not an option. I am really not a very patient playmate. I get bored so easily. Please inspire me. We are in Lanarkshire, Scotland.

You have my sympathy - these winter months are hard going and nothing keeps their attention for more than five minutes! Don't put too much pressure on yourself to be entertaining - he does plenty in the morning so there's no need to keep the same momentum all day.

I got an easel from the ELC and it cost a bit more than I would normally spend but it's been worth every penny with the amount of time it's kept DD occupied with drawing with her crayons and having me draw round her feet and hands! Lego Duplex has also been a godsend (we were given some from a friend) as has her £5 teaset and play food for indoor teddy bears picnics. One afternoon I gave her a wooden spoon and some upside down saucepans/bowls and she was like animal off the muppets but it kept her happy for a good while!! Even just going to the shop or to a cafe keeps her amused with people watching! It's hard sometimes though especially when you're exhausted!