This article is only available in the PDF format. Download the PDF to view the article, as well as its associated figures and tables.
What to Do When "There's Nothing to Do" is a unique and delightful book written by the staff of the Boston Children's Medical Center and Elizabeth M. Gregg. In accomplishing its objective of helping mothers to understand and enjoy their children as well as engage them in constructive activities, this small book provides a marvelous blend of common sense, respect for mothers and their hectic lives, and understanding of children's developmental needs. It presents a host of ingenious ways to keep children happily and productively occupied—even under such trying conditions as waiting in a doctor's office, when a "surprise or comfort bag" may save the day. Some familiar, some unique, some borrowed from other cultures, but all respecting safety precautions, the suggestions are wonderfully simple, practical, and inexpensive. They utilize readily available materials such as left-over milk cartons for blocks to make a fort; salt, flour, oil, and water