Macy’s First Impressions collection is a full range collection from the layette collection of basics like onesies to the Satin Hanger collection of special occasion dress up attire that are classic, adorable and affordable. We are giving away 5 gift sets, each valued at $50, to 5 lucky winners this week. Each set will come with one outfit from the Satin Hanger collection in size 18 months and one layette set in size 6-9 months as well as one plush animal, which are a favorite for tots who have them. The winner can specify gender but the sizing is meant for your little ones to grow into. The above image is just a sample of the prize and may not be indicative of actual prize.
To enter, share with us (in our comments section) your best tips for keeping your tot entertained during a long dinner. I personally have been challenged this holiday season with so many sit down dinners with boring grown ups who yammering on non-stop. I will admit, I allow my tots to play with my iPhone but even that only lasts for so long before the whining ensues. I am sure this is something we are all dealing with this time of year, so please share your best ideas!! We will choose 5 winners via a random computer drawing from all those who leave a comment. Contest ends December 19, 2010 at 11:59pm EST (time stamp on comments must be before that time). Please leave a working email address so we can contact you if you win. Prize will be sent to you from Macy’s.
I have an almost 3 year old and a 5 month old. For the baby, I just try and keep her fed, that works for now. For the toddler, I have also resorted to the iphone, but I also bring small pads and crayons to color, mini books, spinning light wheels or other light up gadgets (you’d be surprised how long they entertain her) and flashcards. The flashcards on a chain or loop are the best, because they don’t end up all over the floor. I also play I Spy or ask her to find everything that is red or green or round or square.
I love playing peek a boo with my niece who is one years old. It keeps her in anticipation and keeps her quiet. I also give her my cell phone to play with and play music for her.
Sometimes it is good to know when your kids are done being good. “Good” can only last so long. This happened recently as the family ordered after dinner coffee. Instead of making the coffee time unenjoyable I took my kids to the car to watch a video. This allowed the family to continue visiting and gave the kids a reward for their good behavior during dinner.
I keep crayons and a pad of paper in my purse at all times and then for when that stops working have a special treat they don’t normally get!
My granddaughter loves to play with her colorful bristle blocks, which she can press into different shapes. We bring about 10 blocks so they won’t get lost or scattered around the table.
My daughter loves to play with her Dora water doodle book. She loves how the colors appear when she wets the page. It keeps her busy during our meal.
So far my almost 3yr old nephew has no problem entertaining himself whenever the adults in the house have dinner. My cousin “trains” him so well that he understands no one will play with him until we finish our food. He usually picks a few different toy cars and “assigns” them to the people who usually play with him. Then he plays on his own until someone comes over. His little sister is about 8 months, and she is never a trouble. She laughs and smiles all the time, and she is happy with anything that makes noise. I wish I’ll have kids like them when I have my own.
I keep my tot entertained by with small toys, books, crayons, coloring books and my blackberry…all alternated during a long meal.
I agree with one of the previous posters that knowing the limits of “good” behavior time are important …
I always keep my little one entertained with crayons and lots of coloring paper and I have been known to resort to giving my car keys (which have lots of bells and whistles on them) to keep him entertained (which he usually doesn’t get to play with)!
Bring a different variety of healthful snacks, so when your child is done eating earlier than the adults, he/she will enjoy nibbling on the treats.
coloring activities seem to work well at restaurants
We entertain our son with Crayola’s Color Wonder Mess-Free books. The markers are clear until you use them on the paper when different colors appear. It is like “magic” so that in and of itself is entertaining for kids! Plus, if you’re in a nice restaurant or dining fancy at home, there is no additional messes to clean up on tableclothes. I’ve also brought Thomas Take-a-Long train sets to keep my son busy at dinner. Space-saving and loads of fun!
I engage them in questions and talk, but have also been known to give them a new small toy they can play with. Works for me!