Turn a mundane trip to the grocery store into an entertaining and educational activity for your toddler.

You might not find the supermarket all that fascinating, but to your little one it's a feast for all five senses! Point out the colorful array of fruits and vegetables and different shapes and sizes of the food packages as you make your way down the aisles. Let her feel different items and help you drop the unbreakable ones in your shopping basket. (Bring a snack from home for her to hold on to in case she's having trouble parting with them.)

Practice color recognition in the produce section. For example, ask her to show you the red apples or the yellow bananas. Or count aloud as you fill your produce bags for a quick math exercise. If you have the time and if the supermarket isn't crowded, take her out of the shopping cart and turn her loose to toddle around once you are finished shopping. She'll appreciate the feeling of independence and the opportunity to stretch her legs. Of course, you'll want to keep a close eye on her as she "shops."