Many parents find themselves in one of two extreme camps. They either expect their children to grow up more quickly than is realistic or they do things that inhibit their children from growing up at the proper pace. Parents in the former group may expect their newborns to be able to sleep through the entire night without waking to feed while … [Read more...] about Equipping Toddlers with New Skills
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Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids
One-on-one time with your spouse is beneficial in any marriage relationship, but it takes on new importance and is particularly elusive for parents of young children. At first glance, it seems like finding alone time is simple: Just leave the kids with a sitter for a few hours! However, for many couples, this is easier said than … [Read more...] about Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids
6 Things Children Can Learn From Gardening
We finally have a yard large enough to accommodate several raised garden beds. With the clumsy help of my toddler, I recently moved my plants from their starter pots into two large beds. I’m thrilled to be introducing my daughter to gardening because there are so many lessons—truly crucial lessons—that our children can learn from … [Read more...] about 6 Things Children Can Learn From Gardening
Road Tripping with a Toddler: Tips for an Enjoyable Ride
The only thing more intimidating than taking a road trip with an infant is taking one with a toddler. Fortunately, as is the case when road tripping with a baby, a little planning and creativity can help things go smoothly and enjoyably. Please note that this post contains some affiliate links. Click here to read about what this … [Read more...] about Road Tripping with a Toddler: Tips for an Enjoyable Ride
The Best Low-Tech Toddler Toys
Toddler toys that are embellished with flashing lights and blasting sounds abound in toy stores. Like most toddlers, my daughter is drawn to these. However, despite her initial interest, they don’t hold her attention for very long. She favors battery-free toys that are simple and versatile. I love these toys, too, because they allow her … [Read more...] about The Best Low-Tech Toddler Toys
Why Today is So Important for Your Kids
So much of motherhood is about just surviving today. I can have patience today when my toddler throws a fit. I can manage to get the kitchen mopped today. We can make it through the grocery store without incident today. At the same time, so much of motherhood is about looking forward. When will my child reach the next developmental milestone? … [Read more...] about Why Today is So Important for Your Kids
Dos and Don’ts of Toddler Bedtime Routines
We’ve always tried to follow a loose bedtime routine with our daughter. This routine will soon take on new importance as we transition her to a “big girl bed” to free up the crib for the baby we will welcome this summer. All toddlers, not just those undergoing transitions, benefit from bedtime routines. The predictability of routines … [Read more...] about Dos and Don’ts of Toddler Bedtime Routines
When Public Restrooms Have No Changing Table
I’m not sure that I ever paid attention to whether or not there were changing tables in restrooms until I became a mom. Now I definitely notice! While we were driving across several states for Thanksgiving this last year, we encountered numerous restaurants and gas stations that did not have changing tables. Each time this happened I … [Read more...] about When Public Restrooms Have No Changing Table
