Need a quick toddler activity? Don’t throw out that wrapping paper so fast…

There’s nothing I love more than a quick and easy toddler activity. Actually, my favorite activity is one that is quick, easy, and spur of the moment – the ones that just organically happen. That’s how this ripping paper bin was started.

Looking for a bunch of easy toddler activities? Check out my super popular post: 40+ crazy easy, no prep toddler activities.

Setting up this ripping paper activity is so easy!

Materials:

• Wrapping paper remnants
• Storage container

This is one of the easiest activities to set up: throw all your wrapping paper scraps into a plastic storage container for your toddler to play with.

What is a ripping bin?

My daughter was “helping” me wrap Christmas presents which meant things were taking twice as long and bows were being decimated (wink). I needed a quick activity to distract her while keeping her close and involved.

I started gathering all the scraps from wrapping gifts and placing them in a plastic container.

I showed my daughter (23 months old) how to rip the paper.

She was hooked! And began shredding paper tirelessly.

I loved this activity and here’s why:

This activity makes use of all those remnants from wrapping gifts and gives toddlers a way to be a part of the wrapping process.

It keeps little hands busy and active – I love that!

Toddlers can learn so much from ripping paper!

This might seem like a simple activity (and it is!) but it packs a fair amount of learning in with it.

Ripping paper is a fine motor skills activity that focuses on grip strength.

It also teaches cause and effect, and is a precursor to using scissors.

Think of this activity next time you wrap gifts.

The next time you’re hard at work wrapping presents (and trying to entertain a toddler at the same time), try this ripping paper activity. It’s a great way to let toddlers play while you work.

Will you try this ripping paper activity?