by: Rony Pollock
Kids are like sponges. They absorb. But the similarity ends there. While sponges absorb, they shrink and disintegrate before long. Kids, on the other hand, soak up day to day experiences and when the right mindsets are instilled, they continually thrive. That’s why it’s important for parents like you to carefully select the toys they play with. Associating fun and play with learning is a fundamental aspect of every child’s growth. And one of the best ways to make this happen is through educational toys.
It All Starts at Home
The home front is crucial to a child’s development. This is where curiosity is first explored. This is where a child learns about colors, shapes, and sounds, what Yes and No mean, and that asking “why” can almost always generate an explanation. The first lessons brought about by childhood generally come from the people around the household. That’s why all activities of your kid should be carefully selected. The right books, appropriate TV programs, and educational toys can supplement and enhance your child’s learning process, making the early stages of learning easier and enjoyable.
Lessons of Playtime
Playing is every child’s first priority. Playtime may only seem to provide pure entertainment, but it is also an integral part of your child’s mental and emotional growth. While it’s good to provide children opportunities for skill formation, such as music or art classes, it’s also ideal to give them ample time to play. Doing so, would provide the following benefits:
- Personality development
- Awareness of their potentials
- Promote independent thinking
- An avenue for creative thinking and problem solving
- Improvement their motor skills
- Enhance their ability to think and communicate
- Value-formation
Guidance is essential to bring out the best in children. But it doesn’t mean that you should totally organize the whole experience for your child. The important thing is to provide supervision and the appropriate tools for play and let your child take it from there.
Toys that Fit
Giving your child high-quality educational toys will liven up and enhance the process of sensory and learning development. The right toys for the right age needs to be considered too. A rattle wouldn’t capture the interest a five-year-old kid. Here’s a quick guide on what educational toys children may enjoy at a certain age:
Infants – The keywords are soft, safe, and colorful. Vividly colored rattles and squeaky toys will stimulate their sense of touch, sight, and hearing.
1 to 2 years – This is a stage where children start learning how to maneuver the things in their hands. They are also beginning to discover that some things are paired together. Toddlers will enjoy building blocks and toys that will allow them to identify and match shapes.
2 to 3 years – Children are beginning to get more creative at this age. They like role playing with other kids or by themselves. Puzzles, Play Cubes, and educational toys that stir their imagination are the best options.
4 to 5 years – Kids are into creative thinking and decision-making by this age. Educational toys that can help enhance these developments include puzzle games and constructions toys.
As children grow older, they become more independent in their choices of what toys to play with. They usually forego free play for games that involve rules and friends. They learn to be competitive. This is the time where parents’ guidance is most crucial. But if you’ve established the foundation by providing your child with educational toys early on, then you may have a child who’s well-developed emotionally and smart to boot.
Parabens And Pregnancy - Should You Be Concerned?
by: Andrew Smith
Parabens have been used as preservatives since the early 1920s, and are utilised in preventing the growth of bacteria. They are used in a wide range of consumer products, especially in cosmetics, including skin care products, shampoos and conditioners, facial and body cosmetics, sun screens, underarm products and soaps.
Just have a look in your bathroom cabinet and see how many products contain ingredients such as methyl-, propyl-, butyl- or ethyl-paraben or ingredients such as p-hydroxynenzoate (PHB) esters. Parabens have been widely accepted and used because they are effective preservatives, are inexpensive and are rapidly excreted from the body.
However, more recent studies, including ones in Japan and the UK have shown that parabens are oestrogenic, meaning they mimic the effects of oestrogen in the body, and may even contribute to problems including male fertility and an increased risk of breast cancer, because they are believed to be acting like hormones and disrupting the body's immune system.
For pregnant women, in particular, this raises issues with the type of make-up or skin lotions that they use because of the long exposure time on the skin, and the fact that anything that you put on your skin will get under the skin and potentially reach the fetus.
However, little scientific information exists on whether the use of products with low levels of parabens over many years results in an accumulation of parabens in body tissues and whether there are or are not any health issues associated with the use of consumer products including parabens.
A study first published in 2004 (Darbre, in the Journal of Applied Toxicology) detected parabens in breast tumours. However, the study was inconclusive failing to answer many of the questions raised. By way of example, this study did not demonstrate that parabens caused cancer, or even that they were harmful. In fact, the study did not review the possible levels of parabens in normal tissue.
But although parabens are not yet proven to be a danger to health, at a time when you are pregnant do you want to take any risk that is avoidable? Would you really be prepared to take that chance unless you were 100% certain that there were no harmful effects?
For many women, the answer is no and so they are changing their skin care regimes and choice of cosmetics to products that do not contain parabens as preservatives. This is often a decision made on the grounds that 'avoidance is the best strategy'. While the scientific jury is still out on the safety or otherwise of parabens, who can argue with that philosophy? The best advice is to be aware of the issue, carefully read the list of ingredients on any product that you put on your skin, look at the alternatives that are available, and then make an informed choice.
There are many now many specialist retailers online who stock a wide range of products for pregnant women that do not contain parabens and you should shop around to find which would be most suitable for you.
Parabens have been used as preservatives since the early 1920s, and are utilised in preventing the growth of bacteria. They are used in a wide range of consumer products, especially in cosmetics, including skin care products, shampoos and conditioners, facial and body cosmetics, sun screens, underarm products and soaps.
Just have a look in your bathroom cabinet and see how many products contain ingredients such as methyl-, propyl-, butyl- or ethyl-paraben or ingredients such as p-hydroxynenzoate (PHB) esters. Parabens have been widely accepted and used because they are effective preservatives, are inexpensive and are rapidly excreted from the body.
However, more recent studies, including ones in Japan and the UK have shown that parabens are oestrogenic, meaning they mimic the effects of oestrogen in the body, and may even contribute to problems including male fertility and an increased risk of breast cancer, because they are believed to be acting like hormones and disrupting the body's immune system.
For pregnant women, in particular, this raises issues with the type of make-up or skin lotions that they use because of the long exposure time on the skin, and the fact that anything that you put on your skin will get under the skin and potentially reach the fetus.
However, little scientific information exists on whether the use of products with low levels of parabens over many years results in an accumulation of parabens in body tissues and whether there are or are not any health issues associated with the use of consumer products including parabens.
A study first published in 2004 (Darbre, in the Journal of Applied Toxicology) detected parabens in breast tumours. However, the study was inconclusive failing to answer many of the questions raised. By way of example, this study did not demonstrate that parabens caused cancer, or even that they were harmful. In fact, the study did not review the possible levels of parabens in normal tissue.
But although parabens are not yet proven to be a danger to health, at a time when you are pregnant do you want to take any risk that is avoidable? Would you really be prepared to take that chance unless you were 100% certain that there were no harmful effects?
For many women, the answer is no and so they are changing their skin care regimes and choice of cosmetics to products that do not contain parabens as preservatives. This is often a decision made on the grounds that 'avoidance is the best strategy'. While the scientific jury is still out on the safety or otherwise of parabens, who can argue with that philosophy? The best advice is to be aware of the issue, carefully read the list of ingredients on any product that you put on your skin, look at the alternatives that are available, and then make an informed choice.
There are many now many specialist retailers online who stock a wide range of products for pregnant women that do not contain parabens and you should shop around to find which would be most suitable for you.
Holiday Gifts, Social Influences, And Parental Values
by: Kalman Heller
A few months ago I was watching public TV’s annual drive to raise money. One of the primary offers for your pledge was a video of the “Doo Wop” music of the ‘50s and early ‘60s. In addition to playing many of my favorite songs they showed old media news clips referring to this as “the devil’s music”, wanting it banned because of the harm it was doing to the teenagers. As part of that generation I recall it as a very superficial time when most of us did what we were told and only minimally challenged prevailing expectations. That led me to think about the next generation, the Boomers, who rioted, challenged authority, used drugs heavily, and turned sex into a recreational activity. By now you may be wondering what this has to do with holiday gifts! Bear with me.
It is a time-honored tradition for each generation of teens to engage in some new set of activities that is perceived as dangerous to their development and to blame contemporary social influences on individual tragedies that take place during those years. In the psychologizing of America we have come to extend this concept of social influence all the way back to prenatal experience! The net result is that parents agonize even more over every move they make and how it might harm their children. If your daughter is allowed to buy a Britney Spears’ doll you are accused of increasing the likelihood that she will either become oversexed or develop an eating disorder. If you buy your son a violent video game you are similarly warned that you are increasing the likelihood he will commit a violent crime. Oh if life were only so simple.
Eating disorders are a serious concern in our society as is male violence. But these are complex problems and our ability to predict which child develops one of these problems is virtually nil. For decades millions of young girls have spent endless hours playing with Barbie dolls and boys have been exposed to ever-increasing violence in all forms of the media. While we are genuinely concerned about the extent of eating disorders and violence in our society, the facts are that the vast majority of women do not develop an eating disorder and the vast majority of men do not commit violent crimes. The actions of individuals are a complex playing out of the interaction of temperament, neurochemistry, personal experience, and social influence. Furthermore, significant problems during childhood and adolescent years do not mean doom for one’s adult life. We are extraordinarily resilient creatures. Need I point out that the seemingly out-of-control behavior by our youth from the mid-‘60s to the mid-‘70s spawned a generation of free thinkers. They created an unparalleled era of prosperity based mostly on an endless creation of self-owned businesses combined with exceptional gains in medicine and science that has also included dramatic changes in gender roles and a new melting-pot society. That’s you I’m talking about – the majority of today’s parents.
So when you go to buy your child some holiday presents I would urge you to be less influenced by the current doomsayers and more influenced by your own values. Too many parents have become confused and overwhelmed by all the advice that people like me send streaming forth. It’s a challenge to separate out what really matters. For a long time I have urged parents to believe that what really matters is to have a close bond with their children by learning how to enjoy them and see their strengths despite how challenging that is with certain children. In addition I urge parents to know what they believe in and provide some consistency for their children by being willing to take the heat for standing behind their values. Your daughter can own a Spears’ doll but if you feel the clothes she wants to wear are too provocative, say no. You may find certain video games cross a line of acceptability because of excessive violence or the values expressed (e.g., bigotry). Say no.
If these concepts resonate with you then it follows that you should buy gifts that you find acceptable for your children and that will be a part of a holiday experience that has personal meaning for the family rather than a temporary material meaning. As adults, few remember their childhood holiday gifts. Warm holiday memories usually consist of the sense of traditions that include sights and sounds and smells that are associated with a sense of family closeness. If you can achieve that then you are having meaningful holidays. Furthermore, that closeness is the strongest factor in increasing the likelihood that your children will ultimately make healthy decisions about their lives.
A few months ago I was watching public TV’s annual drive to raise money. One of the primary offers for your pledge was a video of the “Doo Wop” music of the ‘50s and early ‘60s. In addition to playing many of my favorite songs they showed old media news clips referring to this as “the devil’s music”, wanting it banned because of the harm it was doing to the teenagers. As part of that generation I recall it as a very superficial time when most of us did what we were told and only minimally challenged prevailing expectations. That led me to think about the next generation, the Boomers, who rioted, challenged authority, used drugs heavily, and turned sex into a recreational activity. By now you may be wondering what this has to do with holiday gifts! Bear with me.
It is a time-honored tradition for each generation of teens to engage in some new set of activities that is perceived as dangerous to their development and to blame contemporary social influences on individual tragedies that take place during those years. In the psychologizing of America we have come to extend this concept of social influence all the way back to prenatal experience! The net result is that parents agonize even more over every move they make and how it might harm their children. If your daughter is allowed to buy a Britney Spears’ doll you are accused of increasing the likelihood that she will either become oversexed or develop an eating disorder. If you buy your son a violent video game you are similarly warned that you are increasing the likelihood he will commit a violent crime. Oh if life were only so simple.
Eating disorders are a serious concern in our society as is male violence. But these are complex problems and our ability to predict which child develops one of these problems is virtually nil. For decades millions of young girls have spent endless hours playing with Barbie dolls and boys have been exposed to ever-increasing violence in all forms of the media. While we are genuinely concerned about the extent of eating disorders and violence in our society, the facts are that the vast majority of women do not develop an eating disorder and the vast majority of men do not commit violent crimes. The actions of individuals are a complex playing out of the interaction of temperament, neurochemistry, personal experience, and social influence. Furthermore, significant problems during childhood and adolescent years do not mean doom for one’s adult life. We are extraordinarily resilient creatures. Need I point out that the seemingly out-of-control behavior by our youth from the mid-‘60s to the mid-‘70s spawned a generation of free thinkers. They created an unparalleled era of prosperity based mostly on an endless creation of self-owned businesses combined with exceptional gains in medicine and science that has also included dramatic changes in gender roles and a new melting-pot society. That’s you I’m talking about – the majority of today’s parents.
So when you go to buy your child some holiday presents I would urge you to be less influenced by the current doomsayers and more influenced by your own values. Too many parents have become confused and overwhelmed by all the advice that people like me send streaming forth. It’s a challenge to separate out what really matters. For a long time I have urged parents to believe that what really matters is to have a close bond with their children by learning how to enjoy them and see their strengths despite how challenging that is with certain children. In addition I urge parents to know what they believe in and provide some consistency for their children by being willing to take the heat for standing behind their values. Your daughter can own a Spears’ doll but if you feel the clothes she wants to wear are too provocative, say no. You may find certain video games cross a line of acceptability because of excessive violence or the values expressed (e.g., bigotry). Say no.
If these concepts resonate with you then it follows that you should buy gifts that you find acceptable for your children and that will be a part of a holiday experience that has personal meaning for the family rather than a temporary material meaning. As adults, few remember their childhood holiday gifts. Warm holiday memories usually consist of the sense of traditions that include sights and sounds and smells that are associated with a sense of family closeness. If you can achieve that then you are having meaningful holidays. Furthermore, that closeness is the strongest factor in increasing the likelihood that your children will ultimately make healthy decisions about their lives.
Bully
by: Scott A. Wardell
Bullying
According to the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, nearly half of all school-aged children will become a victim of bullying. Ten percent of surveyed victims state that they are bullied on a regular basis. One research study (Craig and Pepler’s), found that one incident of playground bullying takes place every seven minutes. Less than 5% of the incidents that occurred had adult intervention and less then 12% had peer intervention to assist the victims. Children who are bullied can experience real suffering and emotional trauma that can interfere with their social-emotional development. Whether you suspect that your child is the victim or the bully, it’s important to act now to help your child end this common occurrence. Some of the topics written in this portion of Scott Counseling and the featured links will provide you with some valuable information to help you take action now.
What is Bullying?
A bully is “one who torments others through verbal harassment, physical assault, or more subtle methods of coercion such as manipulation. Bullying generally follows one or all of the behavioral characteristics listed below:
· The behavior is often purposeful.
· The behavior is reoccurring.
· The behavior often occurs due to an imbalance of perceived power.
· The behavior is often negative and aggressive.
Examples of Bullying
Bullies often use a variety of tormenting tactics to instill fear and intimidation. Below is a list of examples that a bully may use to humiliate or torment their victim.
· Verbal Assault and Name Calling: The use of insults, hurtful language or verbal assaults that promotes fear.
· Physical Assault: The use of physical force that may include pushing, shoving, hitting, kicking etc. that promotes fear.
· Personal Property Damage: Ruining or destroying ones property or personal belongings to cause fear.
· Gestures and Sounds: Using facial gestures, body language or sounds such as whistling, pounding of fist or kissing of lips with the purpose of causing fear.
· Threats: Making verbal or writing statements that threatens
School Bullying
Bullying in schools often occurs when adult supervision is minimal or lacking entirely. Bullying can occur in any part of a school building, but research indicates that it occurs most often in the hallways, restrooms, locker areas and classes that require a lot of group work. It’s important to note that many states around the country have made it mandatory that teachers receive training to become more aware of this topic as well as other topics that involve harassment issues. Some of the training that school administrators and counselors have facilitated involved teaching teachers and students to:
· Act on a bullying situation by telling someone or asking for help
· Keep asking for help until you know that the person you told is going to do something about it
· Act on the school policy that states that bullying behavior is unacceptable
· Promote caring, respect and a provide safe environment for everyone in the school
· Increase adult supervision in the halls and other areas where bullying most occurs
· Allow victims of bullying to receive assistance that includes emotional
Bullying
According to the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, nearly half of all school-aged children will become a victim of bullying. Ten percent of surveyed victims state that they are bullied on a regular basis. One research study (Craig and Pepler’s), found that one incident of playground bullying takes place every seven minutes. Less than 5% of the incidents that occurred had adult intervention and less then 12% had peer intervention to assist the victims. Children who are bullied can experience real suffering and emotional trauma that can interfere with their social-emotional development. Whether you suspect that your child is the victim or the bully, it’s important to act now to help your child end this common occurrence. Some of the topics written in this portion of Scott Counseling and the featured links will provide you with some valuable information to help you take action now.
What is Bullying?
A bully is “one who torments others through verbal harassment, physical assault, or more subtle methods of coercion such as manipulation. Bullying generally follows one or all of the behavioral characteristics listed below:
· The behavior is often purposeful.
· The behavior is reoccurring.
· The behavior often occurs due to an imbalance of perceived power.
· The behavior is often negative and aggressive.
Examples of Bullying
Bullies often use a variety of tormenting tactics to instill fear and intimidation. Below is a list of examples that a bully may use to humiliate or torment their victim.
· Verbal Assault and Name Calling: The use of insults, hurtful language or verbal assaults that promotes fear.
· Physical Assault: The use of physical force that may include pushing, shoving, hitting, kicking etc. that promotes fear.
· Personal Property Damage: Ruining or destroying ones property or personal belongings to cause fear.
· Gestures and Sounds: Using facial gestures, body language or sounds such as whistling, pounding of fist or kissing of lips with the purpose of causing fear.
· Threats: Making verbal or writing statements that threatens
School Bullying
Bullying in schools often occurs when adult supervision is minimal or lacking entirely. Bullying can occur in any part of a school building, but research indicates that it occurs most often in the hallways, restrooms, locker areas and classes that require a lot of group work. It’s important to note that many states around the country have made it mandatory that teachers receive training to become more aware of this topic as well as other topics that involve harassment issues. Some of the training that school administrators and counselors have facilitated involved teaching teachers and students to:
· Act on a bullying situation by telling someone or asking for help
· Keep asking for help until you know that the person you told is going to do something about it
· Act on the school policy that states that bullying behavior is unacceptable
· Promote caring, respect and a provide safe environment for everyone in the school
· Increase adult supervision in the halls and other areas where bullying most occurs
· Allow victims of bullying to receive assistance that includes emotional
New Baby, Blogging, and Motherhood
by: Jim DeSantis
Blogging with a new baby sounds a little nuts and is likely to be the last thing on your mind but it may just be the relief valve you need.
I put mothers on a very high pedestal. Even though I am a father and a grandfather, I really have no clue just how tough it is taking care of an infant. I know it's an almost incredible amount of work, and between changing diapers and keeping the nursery squared away it seems unrealistic to imagine that there would be time left over for any mother to blog. However, a growing number of moms are joining the blogosphere to share their experiences during this exciting and challenging time of life. There are a whole range of benefits that mothers can gain from blogging, and the spectrum covers everything from getting through the night to helping distant relatives feel closer, not to mention maintaining your sanity.
What is a blog and why is blogging such a great idea? A blog is nothing more than a daily journal, diary, if you will, of your thoughts and experiences. You write about them, in your own words, and post them online in your blog. Your readers then can comment and start a communication link with you. Best of all, blogging is free.
I run multiple free blogs and can tell you that blogging is a tremendous way to relieve stress and interact with others. It focuses me away from my daily routine and stresses. See my Author Box below for the link to my blog on Family Life to get an idea of what I am talking about. That blog is free on Blogger.com. There are other sources for free blogs but that's getting ahead of ourselves for this article.
For a mom dealing with the hassles and triumphs of a baby, blogging about your motherhood is a great way to blow off some steam or just to share some of the joys of motherhood. Your blogging may even help new mothers get through the trials and tribulations of their first infant.
If your baby often has very erratic sleep patterns that leave you up at odd hours of the night, blogging may just be the best way to fill those hours. Many moms turn to television to help them weather these dawn vigils but, by blogging through the night, moms can turn what feels like a somewhat depressing situation into an actively positive and productive one through blogging.
Another reason why moms often find blogging very satisfying is that it helps them to be a part of a community. For moms who are unable to successfully juggle a full social life with the very tough demands of taking care of a new baby, blogging can be a great way to stave off the isolation that sometimes comes during this stage of life.
A baby requires constant attention, and it can be difficult to attend social gatherings or events when you are responsible for an infant. Luckily, the internet is full of other moms in the same situation, and by chatting with them it is possible to overcome
some of the loneliness that many new mothers are surprised to encounter. If you are a new mother, you can learn from experienced mothers. If you are experienced, you can pass along your wisdom to the new mothers. In that process of exchange you all break the patterns of stress and isolation.
Of course, for a mom with an adorable new baby, blogging can be as much about celebration as it is about necessity. Having a blog about living with a new child can give mothers the chance to reflect on how powerful and warm the sensation of motherhood is, and sometimes sharing the triumphs of this unique time can make them even sweeter.
A blog is a great way to keep friends and family updated with news about your baby's first words or first steps, and with new technology it is easier than ever to make photos and video clips a part of your blog, so you can give far-away relatives the chance to feel much more involved in your child's life. Many email services now have the ability to email videos. You simply load the video onto your computer, attach it electronically, and your relatives get to see your baby is live action.
Blogging, at first, may seem a bit intimidating. Look for someone, a close relative who is computer savvy, to teach you the ins and outs or spend some time online in those wee hours surfing the internet for information about blogging. There is a ton a free tutorials online that will cut your learning curve and soon you can be a blogging whiz!
Jim DeSantis
Proud father and grandfather
Blogging with a new baby sounds a little nuts and is likely to be the last thing on your mind but it may just be the relief valve you need.
I put mothers on a very high pedestal. Even though I am a father and a grandfather, I really have no clue just how tough it is taking care of an infant. I know it's an almost incredible amount of work, and between changing diapers and keeping the nursery squared away it seems unrealistic to imagine that there would be time left over for any mother to blog. However, a growing number of moms are joining the blogosphere to share their experiences during this exciting and challenging time of life. There are a whole range of benefits that mothers can gain from blogging, and the spectrum covers everything from getting through the night to helping distant relatives feel closer, not to mention maintaining your sanity.
What is a blog and why is blogging such a great idea? A blog is nothing more than a daily journal, diary, if you will, of your thoughts and experiences. You write about them, in your own words, and post them online in your blog. Your readers then can comment and start a communication link with you. Best of all, blogging is free.
I run multiple free blogs and can tell you that blogging is a tremendous way to relieve stress and interact with others. It focuses me away from my daily routine and stresses. See my Author Box below for the link to my blog on Family Life to get an idea of what I am talking about. That blog is free on Blogger.com. There are other sources for free blogs but that's getting ahead of ourselves for this article.
For a mom dealing with the hassles and triumphs of a baby, blogging about your motherhood is a great way to blow off some steam or just to share some of the joys of motherhood. Your blogging may even help new mothers get through the trials and tribulations of their first infant.
If your baby often has very erratic sleep patterns that leave you up at odd hours of the night, blogging may just be the best way to fill those hours. Many moms turn to television to help them weather these dawn vigils but, by blogging through the night, moms can turn what feels like a somewhat depressing situation into an actively positive and productive one through blogging.
Another reason why moms often find blogging very satisfying is that it helps them to be a part of a community. For moms who are unable to successfully juggle a full social life with the very tough demands of taking care of a new baby, blogging can be a great way to stave off the isolation that sometimes comes during this stage of life.
A baby requires constant attention, and it can be difficult to attend social gatherings or events when you are responsible for an infant. Luckily, the internet is full of other moms in the same situation, and by chatting with them it is possible to overcome
some of the loneliness that many new mothers are surprised to encounter. If you are a new mother, you can learn from experienced mothers. If you are experienced, you can pass along your wisdom to the new mothers. In that process of exchange you all break the patterns of stress and isolation.
Of course, for a mom with an adorable new baby, blogging can be as much about celebration as it is about necessity. Having a blog about living with a new child can give mothers the chance to reflect on how powerful and warm the sensation of motherhood is, and sometimes sharing the triumphs of this unique time can make them even sweeter.
A blog is a great way to keep friends and family updated with news about your baby's first words or first steps, and with new technology it is easier than ever to make photos and video clips a part of your blog, so you can give far-away relatives the chance to feel much more involved in your child's life. Many email services now have the ability to email videos. You simply load the video onto your computer, attach it electronically, and your relatives get to see your baby is live action.
Blogging, at first, may seem a bit intimidating. Look for someone, a close relative who is computer savvy, to teach you the ins and outs or spend some time online in those wee hours surfing the internet for information about blogging. There is a ton a free tutorials online that will cut your learning curve and soon you can be a blogging whiz!
Jim DeSantis
Proud father and grandfather
Potty Training - The Easy Way
by: Tim Neumann
Potty training children is just that—training. Just as each child learns to walk and talk at their own pace, so to do children learn to use the potty. Remember patience and consistency. And never get upset when a child has an accident. Growing up is a strange new experience for them and learning to control their bodies is all part of life. Getting angry when a child has an accident creates more problems than it solves
For some children, it will be like turning on a light switch and they will wake up and never use a diaper again. For others, it may take a month or two for them to fully transition out of diapers. Whatever you do you must be consistent. If you work hard for a week and only see minimal progress, do not give up.
Some of the signs a child may be ready to be potty trained is if they are ale to stay dry for over two hours at a time. If they have regular bowel movements throughout the day. If your child comes up and tells you they need a diaper change.
Using a potty chair or a toilet ring is up to you, but if you find one method is not working as well, don’t be afraid to try the other.
Here are some different methods to try:
The timer method:
Set a kitchen or other timer for 20 minute intervals. Every time the time goes off, take your child to the potty and have them sit there. If they use it, great! If not, that’s fine too. Just set the timer again and keep trying. But be consistent.
The reward method:
Some parent have had success creating a little chart where the child can put stickers on it if they go potty. After a certain number of stickers are put on the chart the child gets a prize
The example method:
Yes, I know it can be a bit embarrassing, but letting the child watch you use the bathroom can be a fantastic way to show them how and encourage them to be a “big kid.”
The book method:
You local library will likely have several books on potty training. Some of these will be written specifically for kids. Check these out and read them to your child several times to help encourage them.
The trial and error method:
Some children just have a harder time than others, so it may take trying several or all the different methods until you find one that works.
Whatever method you try, just remember to make potty training a fun stress-free time for your child.
Potty training children is just that—training. Just as each child learns to walk and talk at their own pace, so to do children learn to use the potty. Remember patience and consistency. And never get upset when a child has an accident. Growing up is a strange new experience for them and learning to control their bodies is all part of life. Getting angry when a child has an accident creates more problems than it solves
For some children, it will be like turning on a light switch and they will wake up and never use a diaper again. For others, it may take a month or two for them to fully transition out of diapers. Whatever you do you must be consistent. If you work hard for a week and only see minimal progress, do not give up.
Some of the signs a child may be ready to be potty trained is if they are ale to stay dry for over two hours at a time. If they have regular bowel movements throughout the day. If your child comes up and tells you they need a diaper change.
Using a potty chair or a toilet ring is up to you, but if you find one method is not working as well, don’t be afraid to try the other.
Here are some different methods to try:
The timer method:
Set a kitchen or other timer for 20 minute intervals. Every time the time goes off, take your child to the potty and have them sit there. If they use it, great! If not, that’s fine too. Just set the timer again and keep trying. But be consistent.
The reward method:
Some parent have had success creating a little chart where the child can put stickers on it if they go potty. After a certain number of stickers are put on the chart the child gets a prize
The example method:
Yes, I know it can be a bit embarrassing, but letting the child watch you use the bathroom can be a fantastic way to show them how and encourage them to be a “big kid.”
The book method:
You local library will likely have several books on potty training. Some of these will be written specifically for kids. Check these out and read them to your child several times to help encourage them.
The trial and error method:
Some children just have a harder time than others, so it may take trying several or all the different methods until you find one that works.
Whatever method you try, just remember to make potty training a fun stress-free time for your child.
Baby Language
by: Mary Rose
Most parents wish that their baby would grow up without crying. But remember that without crying your baby will not be able to communicate anything with you.Accept the fact that crying is a way of developing the baby language. Especially, in the first six months, babies cry to communicate their needs. As a parent, you cannot always tell, but many mothers in due course will be able to recognize their baby's needs from the type of cry.
The most common reason for babies to cry is hunger. But there are many more common reasons for them to cry too. If your baby cries after a feed, do not jump to the conclusion that the feed was inadequate; instead look for probable reasons other than hunger. Babies cry to express their needs as they cannot communicate otherwise. Given below are the various reasons for which a child/baby cries. As a parent it is important to comprehend the baby language i.e. the reason of cry.
Some common reasons are:
Hunger: In the early part of their lives, babies may need to be fed at short intervals, sometimes in even less than two hours. Frequent feeding will help and over time your baby will space out his/her feeds.
Thirst: Usually not seen in breast-fed babies, but can happen to bottle fed babies, more so in summer.
Diaper-change: If the diapers are left on too long, it can cause painful and uncomfortable rashes. Frequent changing of diapers can prevent these troubles.
Too hot, too cold: Since babies are unable to change their clothes or uncover themselves on their own, they will cry to let you know that they are uncomfortable. The proper way is to feel your baby's body. If it feels cool, add a blanket. If he/she is sweaty or hot, remove a layer of clothing.
Uncomfortable clothes or positioning: Check to see if there is anything poking your baby like a price tag or a piece of Velcro. Change his/her clothes or give him/her some time being naked or swaddled in a warm blanket. Also, change his/her position of sleep. If he/she is lying on the back put him/her on his/her back.
Bowel movements: Some babies will cry, scream and get pink in the face just before passing urine or bowel movement. Once they are done they will be okay.
Anxiety and fear: Sudden movements and loud noises can trigger crying. Be gentle with your baby.
Boredom: Babies who are bored cry to get your attention. Picking up your baby and interacting with him/her can put a quick end to the crying spell.
Tiredness: Babies always don't know that they need to sleep when they're tired. It's your job to calm them down for naptime, not stimulate them.
Sometimes you and your baby can get into a crying cycle. When babies cry, you get anxious and start panicking. Your baby senses this, feels uncomfortable and cries even more. If you find yourself getting into these cycles, talk to your doctor.A sick baby will cry, but will also have other symptoms of illness like runny nose, fever, tugging the ear or diarrhea. Generally a healthy baby will have a strong, loud cry. If your baby's cry becomes weak, contact your doctor right away.
Crying is almost synonymous to baby language. A child primarily expresses it's emotions by crying, making sounds, laughing etc. In the initial stages, it is no cakewalk for a parent to comprehend their child's needs. But with passage of time, the message is communicated effectively and it is an important step in bonding between a parent and child.
Most parents wish that their baby would grow up without crying. But remember that without crying your baby will not be able to communicate anything with you.Accept the fact that crying is a way of developing the baby language. Especially, in the first six months, babies cry to communicate their needs. As a parent, you cannot always tell, but many mothers in due course will be able to recognize their baby's needs from the type of cry.
The most common reason for babies to cry is hunger. But there are many more common reasons for them to cry too. If your baby cries after a feed, do not jump to the conclusion that the feed was inadequate; instead look for probable reasons other than hunger. Babies cry to express their needs as they cannot communicate otherwise. Given below are the various reasons for which a child/baby cries. As a parent it is important to comprehend the baby language i.e. the reason of cry.
Some common reasons are:
Hunger: In the early part of their lives, babies may need to be fed at short intervals, sometimes in even less than two hours. Frequent feeding will help and over time your baby will space out his/her feeds.
Thirst: Usually not seen in breast-fed babies, but can happen to bottle fed babies, more so in summer.
Diaper-change: If the diapers are left on too long, it can cause painful and uncomfortable rashes. Frequent changing of diapers can prevent these troubles.
Too hot, too cold: Since babies are unable to change their clothes or uncover themselves on their own, they will cry to let you know that they are uncomfortable. The proper way is to feel your baby's body. If it feels cool, add a blanket. If he/she is sweaty or hot, remove a layer of clothing.
Uncomfortable clothes or positioning: Check to see if there is anything poking your baby like a price tag or a piece of Velcro. Change his/her clothes or give him/her some time being naked or swaddled in a warm blanket. Also, change his/her position of sleep. If he/she is lying on the back put him/her on his/her back.
Bowel movements: Some babies will cry, scream and get pink in the face just before passing urine or bowel movement. Once they are done they will be okay.
Anxiety and fear: Sudden movements and loud noises can trigger crying. Be gentle with your baby.
Boredom: Babies who are bored cry to get your attention. Picking up your baby and interacting with him/her can put a quick end to the crying spell.
Tiredness: Babies always don't know that they need to sleep when they're tired. It's your job to calm them down for naptime, not stimulate them.
Sometimes you and your baby can get into a crying cycle. When babies cry, you get anxious and start panicking. Your baby senses this, feels uncomfortable and cries even more. If you find yourself getting into these cycles, talk to your doctor.A sick baby will cry, but will also have other symptoms of illness like runny nose, fever, tugging the ear or diarrhea. Generally a healthy baby will have a strong, loud cry. If your baby's cry becomes weak, contact your doctor right away.
Crying is almost synonymous to baby language. A child primarily expresses it's emotions by crying, making sounds, laughing etc. In the initial stages, it is no cakewalk for a parent to comprehend their child's needs. But with passage of time, the message is communicated effectively and it is an important step in bonding between a parent and child.
Children’s Furniture: Must-haves For Your Kid’s Bedroom!
by: Rony Pollock
The bedroom is a place of sanctuary for most children. It can be a place where they can think freely, explore their creativity, discover hidden talents, read, or listen to music. That’s why, as a parent, it’s important to choose children’s furniture that your child can totally make use of.
Maximizing Space and Imagination
Make use of every bit of space available in the bedroom. Children love to store a lot of stuff, so there should be a place available for all your child’s knick knacks. Setting up a shelf or toy storage while maximizing space will ensure that your child’s bedroom is safe and comfortable.
Imagination is the element that will make your child’s bedroom fun and cheerful. You’ll be amazed at how your child can help if you’re lacking in this area. Let him or her describe the preferred colors, themes, and designs. Once you get the idea, finding the right children’s furniture and other decorations your child prefers should be easy.
More Than Just A Bedroom
Because we’ve established that children do more than just sleep in their rooms, you should consider buying children’s furniture that will fully support your kid’s activities.
Most children enjoy drawing and coloring or playing with dolls or action figures. Set up an activity area where your child can comfortably get into the action. Educational rugs or play mats are ideal for this part of your child’s bedroom.
If your child loves books, then setting up a reading nook is the way to go. This area needs to be inviting and comfortable. Provide a cozy chair or a soft rug and overstuffed pillows. Make sure that the lighting in this area is ideal. Keep a book shelf within your child’s reach.
Provide a shelf or cabinet that will serve as a display area. Your child will be able to show-off artwork and favorite pictures. This could also be a place to where trophies, collectibles, and other memorabilia are placed.
Hassle-free Storage Solutions
Keeping children’s bedroom clutter-free is a challenge every parent must face. It’s just a matter of finding a storage solution that is convenient for you and your child. In order to prevent children from just shoving everything under their beds when asked to clean their rooms, the arrangement below could work wonders:
1. Install a corkboard for photographs and artwork.
2. Provide a cabinet for display items. You can opt to have one built-in or you can pick a good one in children’s furniture stores.
3. Place attractive wicker baskets in corners where your child can dump his or her toys, books, and dirty clothes.
4. A roomy closet is recommended for easy storage of your child’s clothes, shoes, and sports gear.
Useful Tips When Out Furniture Shopping
Don’t immediately purchase an item that catches your or your child’s eye. Children’s furniture should be durable and can withstand a child’s constant flow of activity. So make sure you check the credibility of the manufacturer and the kind of material a particular desk or chair is made of.
Don’t give in right away to whatever your child wants. Consider the space of the bedroom as opposed to the gigantic shelf your kid is pointing at. You also need to determine how often your kid will be using a particular piece. When your decision is a no, make your child understand why.
Before going shopping, check out magazines and the Internet for photographs and decoration schemes. This will provide you a clearer view of what you want to get.
Buy at trusted children’s furniture stores. Do your homework and compare prices in advance to get the best deal. After all, you only want nothing but the best for your child.
The bedroom is a place of sanctuary for most children. It can be a place where they can think freely, explore their creativity, discover hidden talents, read, or listen to music. That’s why, as a parent, it’s important to choose children’s furniture that your child can totally make use of.
Maximizing Space and Imagination
Make use of every bit of space available in the bedroom. Children love to store a lot of stuff, so there should be a place available for all your child’s knick knacks. Setting up a shelf or toy storage while maximizing space will ensure that your child’s bedroom is safe and comfortable.
Imagination is the element that will make your child’s bedroom fun and cheerful. You’ll be amazed at how your child can help if you’re lacking in this area. Let him or her describe the preferred colors, themes, and designs. Once you get the idea, finding the right children’s furniture and other decorations your child prefers should be easy.
More Than Just A Bedroom
Because we’ve established that children do more than just sleep in their rooms, you should consider buying children’s furniture that will fully support your kid’s activities.
Most children enjoy drawing and coloring or playing with dolls or action figures. Set up an activity area where your child can comfortably get into the action. Educational rugs or play mats are ideal for this part of your child’s bedroom.
If your child loves books, then setting up a reading nook is the way to go. This area needs to be inviting and comfortable. Provide a cozy chair or a soft rug and overstuffed pillows. Make sure that the lighting in this area is ideal. Keep a book shelf within your child’s reach.
Provide a shelf or cabinet that will serve as a display area. Your child will be able to show-off artwork and favorite pictures. This could also be a place to where trophies, collectibles, and other memorabilia are placed.
Hassle-free Storage Solutions
Keeping children’s bedroom clutter-free is a challenge every parent must face. It’s just a matter of finding a storage solution that is convenient for you and your child. In order to prevent children from just shoving everything under their beds when asked to clean their rooms, the arrangement below could work wonders:
1. Install a corkboard for photographs and artwork.
2. Provide a cabinet for display items. You can opt to have one built-in or you can pick a good one in children’s furniture stores.
3. Place attractive wicker baskets in corners where your child can dump his or her toys, books, and dirty clothes.
4. A roomy closet is recommended for easy storage of your child’s clothes, shoes, and sports gear.
Useful Tips When Out Furniture Shopping
Don’t immediately purchase an item that catches your or your child’s eye. Children’s furniture should be durable and can withstand a child’s constant flow of activity. So make sure you check the credibility of the manufacturer and the kind of material a particular desk or chair is made of.
Don’t give in right away to whatever your child wants. Consider the space of the bedroom as opposed to the gigantic shelf your kid is pointing at. You also need to determine how often your kid will be using a particular piece. When your decision is a no, make your child understand why.
Before going shopping, check out magazines and the Internet for photographs and decoration schemes. This will provide you a clearer view of what you want to get.
Buy at trusted children’s furniture stores. Do your homework and compare prices in advance to get the best deal. After all, you only want nothing but the best for your child.
How Children Benefit From Pretend Play Kitchen, Stores, And More
by: Rony Pollock
Once upon time, you may have worn your mother’s favorite apron while arranging miniature tea sets on a tiny table, serving imaginary tea and scones to your favorite doll. Or you may have been in command of your action figures, leading them to the battlefield in the center of your living room.
The character you were playing when you were young - a chef in a play kitchen or a general in the Stars Wars of your imagination – are still perhaps being played by many children nowadays. Pretend play is such a source of joy that even with the advent of so many modern games, this old-fashioned imaginative play never loses its appeal.
Promoting Pretend Play
Because of the many benefits it can give, children should be encouraged to engage in pretend play. But never impose the idea or it will lose its appeal. Here are some scenarios for starting a pretend play:
- If you see your little girl constantly dressing up her doll, ask her where her dolly is off to and maybe it’s better for little dolly to have something to eat in the play kitchen before taking off.
- When your little boy is playing with his action figures, comment on how the little ones need the guidance of a teacher or the care of a doctor.
- If your child pretends to be a wild animal ready to pounce on you, go along with it. You can act scared at first and then pretend to tame him by giving imaginary food and petting him on the head.
As children warm up to the idea of role playing, whoever’s babysitting would usually be assigned a role. It may seem ridiculous for a grown up like you to assist in a play kitchen or act as the customer in a lemonade stand the size of your arm. But the benefits it can bring to your child won’t make it so ridiculous anymore.
Benefits of Pretend Play
Social and Emotional Development - Children can become whoever they want to be in pretend play. Because of this, they are able to get a very basic view of how it’s like to be a doctor with his toy hospital or how it’s like to be a chef with her play kitchen. As kids act out the part of somebody else, empathy is planted. When children realize they can be any character they want to be, their self-confidence could grow. And with this comes the desire and strength to explore new things.
Mental Development - Even if it’s just child’s play, there are also many problem-solving situations that children encounter during role playing. It may be a concern on what material should best replace a lost play kitchen spoon or who among the action figures to pick as the second in command. The process of looking for solutions to obstacles develops the analytical skills of your child. It also promotes resourcefulness, creativity, abstract thinking and logical reasoning.
Communication - Whether children are playing with their parents, playmates, dolls or imaginary friends, they will always engage in conversation. A child starts to learn the importance of communication, especially when he or she mimics grown-up talk and actions. When children pretend to read to their dolls or write down grocery lists, they may be motivated to start learning how to read and write.
So encourage your child to pretend play. You can start off by presenting a play kitchen or a doctor’s kit. Remember, the skills that your child learns here are the skills that matter in real life.
Once upon time, you may have worn your mother’s favorite apron while arranging miniature tea sets on a tiny table, serving imaginary tea and scones to your favorite doll. Or you may have been in command of your action figures, leading them to the battlefield in the center of your living room.
The character you were playing when you were young - a chef in a play kitchen or a general in the Stars Wars of your imagination – are still perhaps being played by many children nowadays. Pretend play is such a source of joy that even with the advent of so many modern games, this old-fashioned imaginative play never loses its appeal.
Promoting Pretend Play
Because of the many benefits it can give, children should be encouraged to engage in pretend play. But never impose the idea or it will lose its appeal. Here are some scenarios for starting a pretend play:
- If you see your little girl constantly dressing up her doll, ask her where her dolly is off to and maybe it’s better for little dolly to have something to eat in the play kitchen before taking off.
- When your little boy is playing with his action figures, comment on how the little ones need the guidance of a teacher or the care of a doctor.
- If your child pretends to be a wild animal ready to pounce on you, go along with it. You can act scared at first and then pretend to tame him by giving imaginary food and petting him on the head.
As children warm up to the idea of role playing, whoever’s babysitting would usually be assigned a role. It may seem ridiculous for a grown up like you to assist in a play kitchen or act as the customer in a lemonade stand the size of your arm. But the benefits it can bring to your child won’t make it so ridiculous anymore.
Benefits of Pretend Play
Social and Emotional Development - Children can become whoever they want to be in pretend play. Because of this, they are able to get a very basic view of how it’s like to be a doctor with his toy hospital or how it’s like to be a chef with her play kitchen. As kids act out the part of somebody else, empathy is planted. When children realize they can be any character they want to be, their self-confidence could grow. And with this comes the desire and strength to explore new things.
Mental Development - Even if it’s just child’s play, there are also many problem-solving situations that children encounter during role playing. It may be a concern on what material should best replace a lost play kitchen spoon or who among the action figures to pick as the second in command. The process of looking for solutions to obstacles develops the analytical skills of your child. It also promotes resourcefulness, creativity, abstract thinking and logical reasoning.
Communication - Whether children are playing with their parents, playmates, dolls or imaginary friends, they will always engage in conversation. A child starts to learn the importance of communication, especially when he or she mimics grown-up talk and actions. When children pretend to read to their dolls or write down grocery lists, they may be motivated to start learning how to read and write.
So encourage your child to pretend play. You can start off by presenting a play kitchen or a doctor’s kit. Remember, the skills that your child learns here are the skills that matter in real life.
Parenting and Webkinz
by: Steve Cantellini
I can't remember the first time I remember seeing a Webkinz. I vaguely remember hearing talk about them between my daughter and a few of her friends. I recall not really paying attention to it until I heard one of Marisa's friends mention she had 12 out of the 18 Webkinz that were out. One of the other girls said she had 8, another 6 and my daughter said she had 1 that she received for a birthday gift. I thought to myself that this was crazy and these girls must be a bit more then a little spoiled. As time went on, all I heard from Marisa was talk about her Golden Retriever Webkinz that she named Barkley. She constantly carried "him" around or was constantly on the Webkinz web site. Finally I figured that after hearing all the hype I would check this out. I bought Marisa a new Spotted Frog and off to Webkinz World I went. I wasn’t expecting much, but I figured I would at least have some quality time with my daughter.
In spite of my skepticism, I was very happily surprised. I couldn’t believe everything that was involved. First we had to register our new family member. We decided to name him Henry. We bought Henry food and clothes and furniture for his room. Most of all, we had to play with him and give him attention so he knew he was loved. I couldn't imagine that a toy like this would be able to teach a child such responsibility. Furthermore, some of the games on the Webkinz website were very educational. They were not typical Internet or video games, but actually made Marisa think and learn. Two hours had passed and it seemed to fly by. Webkinz had a new fan and he was well into his thirties.
I can now tell you my daughter is one of those kids who owns an extensive collection of Webkinz. Each one of them has given Marisa much joy and entertainment. Because of the Webkinz she has a much better understanding of responsibility and a better appreciation for education. Today, when I hear Marisa and her friends talking about their Webkinz, I smile to myself. I know she is in a world that makes her feel good about herself. I also know the Webkinz world teaches her responsibility in its own way while keeping her happy. What more could a parent what?
I can't remember the first time I remember seeing a Webkinz. I vaguely remember hearing talk about them between my daughter and a few of her friends. I recall not really paying attention to it until I heard one of Marisa's friends mention she had 12 out of the 18 Webkinz that were out. One of the other girls said she had 8, another 6 and my daughter said she had 1 that she received for a birthday gift. I thought to myself that this was crazy and these girls must be a bit more then a little spoiled. As time went on, all I heard from Marisa was talk about her Golden Retriever Webkinz that she named Barkley. She constantly carried "him" around or was constantly on the Webkinz web site. Finally I figured that after hearing all the hype I would check this out. I bought Marisa a new Spotted Frog and off to Webkinz World I went. I wasn’t expecting much, but I figured I would at least have some quality time with my daughter.
In spite of my skepticism, I was very happily surprised. I couldn’t believe everything that was involved. First we had to register our new family member. We decided to name him Henry. We bought Henry food and clothes and furniture for his room. Most of all, we had to play with him and give him attention so he knew he was loved. I couldn't imagine that a toy like this would be able to teach a child such responsibility. Furthermore, some of the games on the Webkinz website were very educational. They were not typical Internet or video games, but actually made Marisa think and learn. Two hours had passed and it seemed to fly by. Webkinz had a new fan and he was well into his thirties.
I can now tell you my daughter is one of those kids who owns an extensive collection of Webkinz. Each one of them has given Marisa much joy and entertainment. Because of the Webkinz she has a much better understanding of responsibility and a better appreciation for education. Today, when I hear Marisa and her friends talking about their Webkinz, I smile to myself. I know she is in a world that makes her feel good about herself. I also know the Webkinz world teaches her responsibility in its own way while keeping her happy. What more could a parent what?
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