Jack's New Friend

I'd like to introduce you to someone. He's great friends with Jack. I'm not sure where I read about his penchant for active toddlers, but he's become a special part of our day. I introduced him to Jack about a month ago, and the two of them have begun quite a friendship. I set him to 10 minutes at various points throughout the day, and have Jack do quiet activities while he's on. Jack sits at the kitchen counter and colors, looks at books, plays with playdoh, or works on his puzzles. I unload the dishwasher, work on laundry, make a phone call, type an email, or just enjoy 10 minutes of quiet. When Jack hears him announce that 10 minutes has passed, he knows he can get up and play. Their friendship has done wonders for Jack (and mommy). Jack knows how long he has to sit; he knows it's temporary. He feels secure in the fact that there is an end to the stillness, and he trusts that I will get him down as soon as we hear that familiar sound. We are both very fond of Jack's new friend...he's our kitchen timer.