Showing posts with label toddler. Show all posts
Showing posts with label toddler. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Toddler Tuesday! 3 Steps to an Easy Morning

As toddlers begin to go through the independent stage, (you know, "Me do it!" "I got it Mommy!") they become a little more difficult to get ready in the morning! Here are a few ways you can avoid these morning struggles.

1.  Prepare in the Evening.  First, get mentally prepared the night before of what the morning will look like, what you will give your child for breakfast, etc.  Lay out your toddlers clothes the night before eliminating the temptation for them to want to go through their closet and pick out their outfit.  If you'd like to give them some choices then let them pick out their socks or a choice of only 2 shirts that you already have out.  Make it simple for you and for them!

2.  Wake up earlier.  I know, as if you don't already wake up early enough, right? Even though it's hard to drag yourself out of bed, it will pay off in the long run.  Although you can't give your toddler complete independence, letting them try to do some things on their own is an important part of their learning process. 
Also, getting up before your child is awake and maybe even having some coffee and can be especially helpful to mentally prepare yourself before the craziness begins.

3.  Stick to a routine.   Routine is so important for toddlers.  Try to be consistant with meals, t.v, and a morning routine as much as you can and most importantly be consistent MOST of the time with any warnings you give.  At this stage, it's helpful if your child learns when you really mean the word "No" or when it's OK to challenge you a little.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

TODDLER TUESDAY: Stop Tantrums Now!

Tantrums can be very difficult for a parent to tolerate.  Believe me, as a pregnant Momma (and a mother of a 2 year old who isn't the most laid back child), I can relate to the frustration of toddler tantrums! 

Here's a great article to help you avoid those troubling time!  Check it out!
http://pregnant.thebump.com/toddler/toddler-basics-19-to-24-months/qa/how-can-i-keep-my-childs-tantrums-under-control.aspx?cm_ven=Responsys&cm_cat=Newsletter&cm_pla=Parent&cm_ite=March%2022,%202011&MsdVisit=1

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

TODDLER TUESDAYS: Cookie Cutters and Muffin Tins

Cookie cutters are one of my favorite 'on hand' tools to use for a variety of games and foods for toddlers.  You can get them for dirt cheap and you will use them for years!  Check out my Amazon site where you can purchase a variety of cookie cutters (pack comes with 24) for $12.95 by clicking on MY STORE in my home page.  You will find the item on Page 3.  This is a great deal!
One of my favorite things to do with toddlers is to make sandwiches or pancakes into fun shapes like this butterfly....

I made this for Sienna's lunch and she loved it!! 

Looking for more creative and inexpensive ways to make your childs' food fun?  Check out these great resources....
http://www.sugarcraft.com/catalog/cooky/thingstodo/thingstodo.htm
Muffin Tin Mom http://michellesjournalcorner.blogspot.com/