Best Baby Busy Board Ideas Ever

DIY busy boards for kids are everywhere on Pinterest, Etsy and YouTube. We know you'll want to make one, too, so here are some ideas to get you started.

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baby
Teresa Odland

Materials Selection

The possibilities are endless when building a busy board for your favorite little one. First, take a quick dig through your kitchen junk drawer, office or garage for busy board ideas and collect “busy” items that might keep a child’s attention and aid in developing motor skills. Or try expanding your search beyond the home to the dollar store, hardware store, or sewing and craft store—always keeping the child’s safety in mind, of course.

Here are some ideas to get you started, pick one theme or mix from multiple to create a custom busy board!

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crafts
EVGENIYA68/Shutterstock

Clothing Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • Zippers
  • Velcro
  • Shoelaces
  • Mirror
  • Plastic Buckle
  • Snap Straps
  • Buttons
  • Jeans Pocket

Check out these 11 clothing storage ideas that will transform your closet.

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tech
DAMRONG RATTANAPONG/Shutterstock

Electronic Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • Rotary Phone
  • Old Cell Phone
  • TV Remote
  • Calculator
  • Keyboard
  • Elastic File Folder Closure
  • Tap Light

10 things you should know about recycling electronics.

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junk
Pixsooz/Shutterstock

Kitchen Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • Egg Timer
  • Silicone Utensils
  • Metal Cookie Sheet and Large Magnets
  • Chip Clip
  • Microfiber Duster
  • Sink Drain Strainer
  • Silicone Pot Holder
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Plastic Storage and Lid

Here are 11 ingenious tips for upgrading your kitchen storage.

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locks
Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Door Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • Spring Doorstop
  • Slider Lock and Chain
  • Electronic Doorbell
  • Door Knocker
  • Hinged Mini Door with Knob
  • Window Crank
  • Barrel Bolt
  • Door Knob
  • Drawer Pulls
  • Padlock and Key
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Family Handyman

Hardware Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • House Numbers
  • Eye Hook Latch
  • Outdoor Water Valve
  • Spring Toilet Paper Holder
  • Carpet Samples
  • Carabiner
  • Large Wooden Beads
  • Light Switch
  • Caster Wheels
  • PVC Pipe Fittings

Here are 10 nifty tips for how to store a variety of hardware items in your garage or workshop.

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toys
Bulltus_casso/Shutterstock

Pet Themed Busy Board Ideas

  • Buckle Collar
  • Knotted Rope Toy
  • Jingle Bells
  • Tennis Ball on Rope
  • Squeaker
  • Leash Loop

Show your pet some love with these 17 great tips for pet care and safety.