It's inevitable. There will be times (plenty times) that the kiddos will just have to... wait. Whether you're out for an oil change or needing to kill time before a playdate, stuck in line at the DMV (good luck), or waiting for big brother's baseball game to end, there will absolutely be times when your child will need to sit quietly and occupy themselves.
That’s why a “Waiting Bag” is a great idea for moms (dads too)! It’s a small tote or backpack you keep packed and ready to grab before heading out the door -- stocked with quiet activities, mess-free entertainment, and a few essentials to help pass the time without chaos. (If you carry a diaper bag, you probably already keep some fun things on hand to occupy your little one, but this extra bag goes above and beyond!)
Here’s what I recommend including:
Brain Boosters
- Flash cards: Choose age-appropriate ones (letters, numbers, sight words, phonics, multiplication… whatever they’re working on!). One of my kids has special needs, and even though she's a teenager, I still like bringing conversation cards with us so we can practice receptive and expressive language skills on the go!
- Puzzle books: Think mazes, word searches, Rubiks cubes, or even small jigsaw or chunky puzzles. I'm also a fan of brainteaser books. For a full year, one of my daughters carried around Match Wits with Mensa everywhere she went, and I'm convinced it really boosted her brain power.
- Books or magazines: Pack a few favorites or something new from the library to keep things fresh. For magazines, try out Highlights High Five for littles, Highlights (regular edition) for slightly older kids, or magazines like National Geographic Kids for science lovers.
Creative Time
- Coloring books & crayons: Go for twistable crayons or colored pencils to avoid melted wax messes.
- Stickers & sticker books: These are usually a hit and easy to clean up.
- Blank notebook: Perfect for doodling, journaling, or creating "pretend" shopping lists and treasure maps.
- Pens & pencils: Toss in a few fun ones to make writing feel special.
Play Time
- Toys, stuffed animals, etc: This one's easy! Pack a favorite stuffy or toy, and you're golden!
Tech (if you're okay with it)
- Tablet or handheld game: Bringing electronics along is usually a no-go for my family, but every now and again I allow it. I recommend preloading the devices with educational games, audiobooks, or favorite shows for those longer waits.
- Don’t forget the headphones and maybe a small charging cable or battery pack!
Snacks & Sips
- Choose healthy, non-messy options like grapes, berries, granola bars, or crackers
- Obviously, you won't keep fresh snacks stored away in the "waiting bag," so just remember to prepare something easy and stash it in the bag before leaving the house.
- A juice box or refillable water bottle
Just in Case
- Baby wipes: I have NO babies now, but I still buy Huggies wipes for sticky fingers, spills, or impromptu face clean-ups. Wet Ones and other brands seem to work just as well!
- Tissues: Because you just never know.
- A little baggie for trash: Trust me, you’ll be glad it’s in there.
Bonus: Keep it fresh!
Switch things up every couple of weeks so your child stays excited about what’s inside. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; even a new sheet of stickers or a surprise mini-toy can do the trick.
And Don’t Forget Mom!
Okay, so I don't mean to put all my faults on display, but sometimes I need help waiting, too. What about you? Well... instead of defaulting to social media scrolling (I'm guilty), why not pack a couple of small things just for you? A “Waiting Bag” isn’t just for the kids. It can be a mini self-care kit for mom, too.
Here are a few ideas to tuck in:
- A good book or magazine: Something you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t had time for. A Bible devotional, perhaps?
- A small journal and pen: Use it to jot down thoughts, gratitude lists, meal ideas, or even silly things your kids say.
- Crossword puzzles or sudoku: A fun way to keep your brain engaged.
- Earbuds: Pop them in for a quick podcast episode or calming music (especially if the kids are happily occupied).
- A travel-sized hand lotion or essential oil roller: For a little moment of calm and refreshment.
- A protein bar or your favorite snack: Because you deserve a treat too!
Having a Waiting Bag ready to go will save your sanity more times than you can count. It turns those in-between moments into peaceful pauses instead of meltdowns, and that’s a total win in my book.
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