No Such Thing as the Terrible Two's on Sanibel Island

We were recently asked by a prospective vacation rental guest if there would be things to do for their toddler. Of course, when you think of Sanibel, you think of kids and the great discoveries to be made on the Island. You think of swimming and kayaking and biking and maybe even parasailing. But those things are really more enjoyed by children a little older. So, keeping in mind that that the "toddler rebellion" can actually begin at the age of one and that it is marked by temper tantrums and the acute reaction to say no to everything, we came up with some suggestions.

We think that these activities will keep your toddler sufficiently entertained and safe and keep you from living in the future and thinking about when you will be blowing out that third candle on the birthday cake.

Since toddlers and young children are often afraid to go into the water but are enthralled by the sight of it, beach activities are always a great diversion. Sea shell gathering, even at such a tender age, is a lot of fun. Your little one can find so many different kind of shells on Sanibel beaches that this can become a family effort for a whole morning. Just remember that it is not just your toddler's age that is tender, but that tiny feet should be protected in sturdy beach shoes or sneakers. Those shells that adults can avoid while walking the beach need to be child proofed on your babies feet. And that tender skin needs plenty of sunscreen as well.

There is probably not a more exciting adventure for a 2 year old than building their first sand castle. (Remember yours?) With mom and dad's help, your toddler can become chief architect and contractor of their own little piece of property. And if they tire of the project and stomp it into oblivion, no harm done. You can all build a new one the next day.

Your little one won't be able to tour the island by bike using pedal power, but there are bike trailers that you can attach to your own bike to pull him or her along. You can rent your own bike and the tot trailers from Billy's Rentals or, for a family vehicle, you might want to consider a 4 person surrey rental, also available at Billy's Rentals.

If the natural bird sightings are not sufficiently interesting, your toddler might enjoy a closer look at some very special birds. There are wonderful parrots and macaws to be seen at Jerry's supermarket and a whole collection of tropical and unusual birds at the Periwinkle Park mini zoo. Just remember that these birds, while beautiful and tame, are not domestic pets. Always keep an eye that little fingers don't get too close to those big powerful beaks!

And, of course, for the ultimate nature experience, boat rides to any of the smaller islands surrounding Sanibel are not just get fun, but an excellent way to introduce your little one to our water world. Almost guaranteed, on any of these journeys you will have dolphin swimming beside your boat, jumping and frolicking purely to entertain you. Indeed, their antics are so entertaining we are betting that your little one will not want to return to shore. And we totally understand that.

Life is good on Sanibel, by land or by sea. Come and experience the magic with your family!