I have things littles can do when they are out. I have a small room under my stairs that has crayons, paper, paints, playdoh, dolls, stuffies, blankets and other toys.
They know they are safe in there and can play or draw or whatever. Ther are even soft pillows so they can sleep if they want.
I don't try to stop them from coming out. Vicki takes care of them inside now and she keeps them from coming out when it isn't safe. Before she began doing that, I was always afraid they'd come out in unsafe places--which they did sometimes.
If you have someone inside that can keep them safe inside that is really good.
w_i