Life with a newborn and toddler can be difficult to manage for any mom.  If your toddler thinks that breastfeeding time for your newborn means free-for-all time to act up, keep reading.  These tips may help to occupy your older child while you enjoy breastfeeding the newest member of your family:

• Have a special gift for your toddler from the baby and try to restrict play time with that toy to breastfeeding time.

• Keep a separate box of toys near your breastfeeding chair and only let him play with those toys while your new little one is breastfeeding.  Change the toys every few days.

• Read a book to him and have him turn the pages when you make a special sound.  You have one hand free so snuggle up.

• Make breastfeeding time his snack time.

• Place him in a high chair and give him some play dough, finger paints or even just water to play with while you sit next to him. Use your free hand to join in the fun!

• Sit on the floor while breastfeeding so that you can play with trucks or blocks.

• Hang a birdfeeder near the window by your breastfeeding chair so that he can watch the birds and animals eat.  Have some books to learn more about the birds that you see.

• Have him match clean socks or practice snapping the baby outfits.

Try to make breastfeeding time a fun time for your toddler so that he looks forward to this time rather than becoming whiny and demanding.  Stay tuned for some more tips with the next blog.

What have you done to entertain your older child while breastfeeding your newest addition?