Homeschooling with a toddler in tow is not always that easy.  It seems that every time you are ready to sit down with another child to begin schooling, that is the time your toddler needs you the most.  Has that ever happened to someone other than me?  Bless their little hearts.  They just need something to keep them occupied while you are busy.  Here are some neat ways that worked for me.  I hope they can help you as well.

Create a school box for your little one.  Have a "special" pencil box that you pull out for your child to do "school" when you and your other child(ren) are doing schoolwork, too.  This box can contain some crayons, coloring pages that you alternate each week,  along with stickers, and other little goodies that are safe for a child of 1-1/2 to 3 years old.  They will be happy to be doing "school," along with their older sibling(s).

Toddler-Sitting Tag.  This works, if you have multiple children of varying ages.  Have an older child sit and play with your toddler while you work with a different child.  When you have finished with that child, they will take over the role of playing with your toddler, while the other child comes in to sit with you.  As long as your toddler is entertained by someone else, they may be less likely to need your immediate attention.

Toy Box.  Pull out a toy box that is filled with things that your toddler can only play with when you are doing homeschool.  Let your child play in the same room as you.  Every so often, add something new to the box or alternate toys, so that your child sees something new to play with.

TV Time is Okay.  If you need just another half-hour before you will be done school, and your toddler just can't seem to wait that long, consider playing a DVD/VHS or letting her watch a TV show that is entertaining and educational.  Make sure it is a show that she does not already watch a lot, so she is interested in sticking around until its over.  Do not plan to have your child watch TV for extended periods of time.

Plan B.  If all else fails, try to plan your homeschool schedule around your toddler's nap time.  At least you know some work will get done, even if your child takes a short nap.

Please let us hear of your tips and tricks for keeping toddlers happy during homeschool time.  We'd love to know!