10 to 15 minutes

Materials

Refrigerator surfaceNumeral, alphabet, or other decorative magnets

Directions This is a quiet activity that can keep fingers busy while you are preparing dinner. Keep a container on hand that is filled with hand-sized magnets and let your child arrange them on the refrigerator while you talk to each other about the task. Extensions

Challenge your child to place the magnets purposely; for example, all on the bottom, way up high, etc.Take the magnets around the house and see where else they will stick.Make up a story that incorporates the magnets while you are working, directing your child to move them and arrange the story.