Can I do this?! Of course. Keeping Tatum busy means balancing what she needs to learn with a bit of fun. I also want her to be a bit independent.
Therefore I started with….Beans. Yes, beans. Sorting, distributing and pouring. All you need is some cups and lima beans or beans of choice (dry of course). Then, in the background, the music playing sets the tone. I obtained some fun kid CD’s and the classics play, like “The Wheels on the Bus,” “Five Little Monkeys,” and “This Old Man” etc…When Five Little Monkeys started, of course we had to get up and dance. Tatum knows the “NO MORE MONKEYS JUMPIN on THE BED” part as she shakes her finger. For some reason, I know she is going to want to be the one in charge. 
So, after beaning, we retired to the patio. I attempted to sit at the table while she exercised her little muscles. She slid down her slide and pushed her motorcycle around. I am a bit concerned because she just does not like to run around too much. The other end of the spectrum could be an OVERLY active child, so I guess it’s a blessing. However, she usually just wants to sit and read. Puzzles? nah.. Little people? Nah.. (well, for a minute. She’ll pick out the doggie and run around yelling “doggie!”).. Drawing? We’re getting there. So, at least 
Upstairs, she jumped onto the rocker to read about the Little Bunny.
Then it was time to feed the baby her “ba ba”
I attempted to introduce her AGAIN to pop beads. This may take, but she can get some fine motor skills pumping
We made it at least to lunch. I knew after that she would play a bit more then nap time from 2-4. After 4 is always fun (haha) 
The pool? Of course! This involves more pouring of water and splashing. She continues to “challenge” me as she wants to jump on her terms, but when that happens? Bye bye pool and fun.
It was a great day. I’ve already seen a huge change in her behavior by just BEING with her. Hmmmm, what a concept!
Then when walking in the HOT Phoenix sun, she knows a cold drink when she grabs it…COLD!
