I heard this idea from somewhere (who can remember with baby brain?) and it worked a treat.
I had a lovely big bag, the kind people give you a large present in, and I put in some “lucky dips”. Each dip was a small inexpensive thing: a tub of play-dough, a mini pad and 3 different-colour textas, a little jigsaw, a book, a small toy, all wrapped up.
When it was a difficult time, like when feeding time rolled around, and my oldest was already bored, I’d say, “Hey, I’m going to be busy for a little while, want a lucky dip?” It normally kept my kid busy long enough for me to do my job.
When my job was finished and my kid had moved onto something else, I covertly put the dip away. Next time I needed cover, I’d say, “Hey, let’s get out your lucky dip again!” They’d forgotten completely about it and therefore were delighted to see it again. One lucky dip present would normally last me several days in this way. When it was a bit less interesting, I’d say, “Time for a new lucky dip!”
I always made sure there were about 4-5 lucky dips in the bag, not too many, but not too few. And I kept some on hand to replenish the bag.
It gave me just enough cover to get through most of my difficult situations. Lucky dip, lucky me!
Joni Page 