If you need something to occupy your toddler, buy a giant bag (say 25lbs.) of white rice.  My son loves it when I put an enormous bowl of rice in front of him with a small funnel, measuring cups, and other small toys.  Granted, I end up sweeping up rice for a few days, but he loves the movement of the rice, the texture, and it keeps him occupied for at least 15-20 minutes.