The Abundant Wife

When my friend Rebecca pinned this image on Pinterest recently, I knew I had to try this with my kids.  I had four FREE glow bracelets and two glow sticks in the refrigerator that I received at the CVS register a couple weeks ago.

Don’t let the low-quality of my photo (and lack of any photos with the kids) fool you.  IT. WAS. AWESOME.  The glow sticks filled the bath tub and bathroom with an other-worldly light.  I shut the kids out of the bathroom while I got the bath tub set up and then invited them in.  They stood at the side of the bath tub staring into the water in awed silence.  Then, very slowly, Naomi began to undress herself, mesmerized by the glowing toys.  They took a VERY long bath, soaking in the glow.  From my perspective, it all looked very magical as the light played off the walls, their faces, and the water.

After the success of the glow sticks in the bath tub, I was inspired to continue our play in the dark.  I got the kids in their pajamas and read them a few books by the light of a flashlight.  I especially enjoyed “What was I scared of?” by Dr. Seuss because the pages glow when you turn off the flashlight.

Another favorite is “Lights Out, Nights Out” by William Boniface, whichhas Animotion images on each page.

And finally a seasonal book, “Five Little Pumpkins” illustrated by Ben Mantle.

It was a really fun evening, and a special memory for me and the kids.  Even Brad took a break from his work to join in the fun with us.  I think these would also be fun activities to creatively combine with a sleepover, a Halloween party, a camp out, or an outdoor summer swim party (all after dark, of course).

What kinds of fun activities do you enjoy doing with your toddler after dark?