This sound like me, but I'm not as smart as you.
I learned to sketch, and paint miniatures. It gave me some kind of silence. I have to study painting techniques also. So, if I want to keep my mind occupied, but not too heavy, then I could watch some painting tutorials.
Not at all. Bluetooth earbuds are too convenient for me. I could just leave my phone anywhere in the house playing podcasts while playing with my baby.