Playtime

With six kids, playtime is essential and frequent!  Of course there are many times when a busy Mom must get some work done and the kids need to entertain themselves and each other, but Mom is close by to help out, referee when needed, and sometimes even document with photos.  This Mom of six cherishes the years she was able to spend playing with kids:

 Balls in a bowl were fun for all of the babies.

As was this cute hand puppet.

 This portable "jungle gym" of toys was very useful.

Beach balls and playground balls are always popular with kids of all ages.

This pink rocking horse was very well loved.

Bright colored crib toys can entertain baby when she wakes up.

Or Baby can play on and roll around on a blanket or the floor.

And soon baby can sit up and play. Keys and nesting toys are always fun!

Couch cushions can be fun to play with too and make a fun kid sandwich!

Johnny Jump Up hangs in the doorway on a spring and lets baby jump and play while Mom works nearby.

A wind up swing was an essential for a busy Mom of six.  Siblings can help entertain baby too!

 Trikes

and more trikes

and more trikes.  We have had many vehicles of all colors for many kids

And don't forget the bikes!

Wooden building blocks are another essential

And Legos, of course.

 

Every little girl needs a favorite dolly .

And Doctor's Kits are fun toys too!

Everyone should have a Teddy Bear . . . 

or even an entire shelf of teddy bears and other stuffed animals.

 And don't forget trips to the playground with the merry go round . . . 

the swings . . . 

and the monkey bars.  

 A wading pool is essential for the hot summer days . . . 

And the beach is fun to visit even when it's not that hot!

Don't forget to spend some time just playing on the grass!

Playing Basketball

Or climbing trees

Or in the mud!!

Lots and lots of paper and crayons are essentials for a family of kids.  Dad of six brought this big roll of yellow paper home from work one day, and we used it for many projects over many years.  

 The chalkboard and easel are always fun too.

An abundance of board games are helpful for rainy days and Sundays.

As are puzzles of all sizes.

What are your favorite playtime memories??