One Way to Occupy a 2-Year-Old

'Tis the season of presents, and you know what that means... lots of boxes!  I like to give my son an empty box, a couple of markers, and maybe some stickers if I'm feeling really wild.  Coloring a big box keeps him occupied longer than coloring a piece of paper- 15 minutes compared to 5.

I let him go crazy with this box while helping my mom put out her Christmas lights this year.  He was getting antsy and starting to wander away from the yard. 

I'm always looking for things my 2-year-old can do to entertain himself that keep him out of trouble, make minimal mess, and are quiet.  Any suggestions?