Be Ready for Fun Emergencies

We've all had those unexpected play shortages come up -- maybe a playdate runs longer than expected, or a rainy day changes plans, or a birthday party hits a lull. When you've got a bunch of little ones looking to you for amusement and no planned activities or purchased supplies to employ, it helps to be able to turn ordinary household ingredients into the makings of fun on the fly. I've assembled an emergency toolkit of nine pantry, cupboard, or recycling pile items that can turn you into the most resourceful parent on the block -- and give kids a little therapy boost, too. Do you have some DIY inspirations? Share them here.

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