I used to make sure every thing small or unsafe was put away, and arrange toys all around my room or the garden ready for each 5 hour stay from my grandchildren aged 9 months. I think its bad for the child to spend all your time trying to play with them. I would start them off, then leave them to it. I could never read a book, but I used to crochet or read the paper, so I could put it down quickly to sort out problems.
I also used to have a strict routine. 1 hour play, snack, visit the park or toddler club (when they were on) , lunch, nap, snack then TV for 1/2 hour then play. I would clean, tidy up rearrange toys as I went along. Not easy or relaxing. but my 10 year old grandaughter, who I've looked after since she was 9 months is lovely and she just gets on with it now and makes me a lovely cup of tea...
Is there such a thing as delicious ready meals?