Keeping your toddler entertained - take them to a ... CAR WASH

We're selling our car ... so I figured it would be good to give it a proper wash before handing it over to the buyer. As it turned out I happened to have Noah with me when I took the car to the car wash. As we were queuing up for the automated car wash I noticed that Noah was fascinated by the whole spectacle of the cars in front of us being washed. So I took him out of his car seat and put him on my lap behind the steering wheel as we went in.

He was exstatic when the wash started ... pointing out how all the brushes moved around and making sound effect noises of the car being sprinkled, brushed and washed. He followed every detail of the wash program through its various stages and commented (incomprehensibly) on everything that was happening. Towards the end when the fans go on for dyring the car there was a moment when he had a worried look on his face but it was gone after a few seconds as he was again absorbed by the magic of the car wash. He absolutely LOVED the whole experience and everytime we pass the place he points it out making the car wash noises again. YAY! I have to say I always liked car washes as a kid as well (how can you not like them!) ... so it was great to see him enjoying it too. It's really a bit like a ride in a fun park I guess - but with the added benefit that you end up with a clean car (and it's only 10 bucks or so).

I think I'd make it a regular event (if it weren't for the fact that we actually sold our car) but I'm sure my mates won't be upset if I borrow their cars and return them washed! So if you are stuck for something to do and to keep your toddler/kids entertained for half an hour (and your car needs a wash anyway) give it the automated car wash a go!

-Stef