Back-to-school season often coincides with the so-called 'sick season,' leading to parents of young children finding themselves in the pediatrician's waiting room more frequently than they'd like. Keeping young children occupied in a waiting room can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little preparation and creativity, parents can make the wait more enjoyable and less stressful. Here are some ideas:

Bring Small Toys:

Simple and portable toys like action figures, dolls, cars, or stuffed animals can keep children engaged. Think about what your unique child loves and use that. Here are some ideas:

Wooden Pencils / Dog Figurines / Magnetic People / Post-It Notes / Cars

Interactive Apps:

If you have a smartphone or tablet, having age-appropriate games or educational apps can be a lifesaver. We love and recommend Pok Pok. I love Pok Pok because it is engaging but not over-stimulating or addictive, and works 100 percent offline, without ads! Pok Pok is a digital playroom you can take on the go. You can use the code 50WORKSPACE for a free 7-day trial and 50% off of an annual subscription! Click HERE to try it out today!

Books:

Bring a book of short stories to read aloud. My kids always loved the following:

George and Martha / Frog and Toad Are Friends / Little Bear

Snacks:

Having a small snack like crackers or fruit can keep kids occupied, especially if it’s something they enjoy. Make sure to bring something that's not too messy, and that is allergy friendly. Many doctor’s offices do not allow food, so check with yours. We love these for cleaning hands before and after snacking.

Play “I Spy”:

This simple game can be played anywhere and is great for passing the time. "I spy with my little eye something that is red" - then let the child guess what you're referring to.

Music or Audiobooks:

If your child has a favorite story or songs, having them on your phone with a pair of child-friendly headphones can be soothing. These headphones are a great child-friendly option.

Sticker Books:

These can keep a child entertained as they match stickers to the correct place or create their own scene. These reusable sticker books are a fan favorite at my house.

Build a Story Together:

Start a story and let your child add to it. This can be a fun and creative way to pass the time. Write the story down in your notes app so that you can add to it and read it over time!