Thursday, September 30, 2010

Child's Play - Building a Confident Child Through Physical Play

at 12:00 PM 0 comments
"Moving is as natural to learning as breathing is to living," says early childhood expert Mimi Chenfeld. From newborn to fully grown, your child must learn many things. The majority of those skills are learned through practice, cooperative play and physical activity.

By nature, a child must move, fidget and wiggle. They are not intended to lead a sedentary lifestyle. A child's body needs to run, jump, roll and play to grow and develop normally. They need to build strength, strong bones, and coordination. It is not possible for this to happen without a great deal of physical activity and practice.

As early as 3-4 months of age, your baby will start becoming active. Learning to hold their head up, reach out to grasp toys and roll over unassisted. Without physical activity and practice, your baby would not learn these skills. The same holds true for every stage of development throughout your child's growing years.

The best way to help your child reach milestones in their physical development is to encourage activity and movement. Your child will naturally continue to try new motor skills challenges. A one year old will automatically begin learning to walk, climb and balance if given the choice. Providing the necessary tools, opportunities to practice and most importantly, your time, will speed your child through the physical challenges of life.

Backyard play equipment, bicycles and regular activities are all tools your child needs. Giving your one year old a safe environment to learn basic climbing skills, under adult supervision, is necessary for strengthening muscles, developing balance and coordination. Toddler sized playground equipment will go a long way to seeing your child, aged 12 months through 4-5 years old, develop all of the physical and motor skills they need.

Outdoor play is important. Not only will they get the necessary Vitamin D from the sunshine, they will also begin to see physical activity as an important part of being healthy. Especially if you set an example by being physically active outdoors too. Simple things like going for a family walk or bike ride after dinner, playing ball in the back yard or pushing your child on a swing set will help ingrain the need to stay active in your child's life.

As your child begins to master certain skills you will begin to hear the words "Watch me!" as he performs one physical feet or another for you. This means he is gaining confidence in his abilities. Children who are more active and more comfortable with their physical abilities are more self confident about themselves in general. They tend to attempt new challenges in life with less hesitation.

Self esteem, healthy body image and self confidence are all by-products of physical activity. Be sure you include toys and opportunities to encourage your child to stay active. Limit the types of activities that require your child to stay "still". Watching TV and playing video games should be allowed on a very time-limited basis.

The average child should be physically active at least 4-5 hours per day to maintain their health. Obviously as a parent, it is not possible for you play with them all of that time, so it is important that you give them toys or play equipment that will encourage them to be active on their own.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

How to Get Your Child's Attention When They Are Watching TV

at 5:39 AM 0 comments
Do you feel like you are competing with the television for your child's attention? You are not alone. When kids are watching TV, they typically become completely engrossed in the program and tune everything else out. There are some things you can do to win the battle for your child's attention.

Many times the child is not purposely ignoring you, they just do not have the brain function to devote their attention to two separate things. It is not necessary to shout at them in an attempt to get their attention. This may startle them or cause them to go into a defensive mode, and they will not hear you anyways.

Before you attempt to talk to your child, say their name. If they do not look at you, try stepping closer and saying their name again. If they see you, that may help break the tether to the television. Once that happens, you should be able to get their attention. It may also be helpful to tap them on the shoulder. Get down to their level as well. This is a sign of respect, and they will remember this gesture in the future when they want your attention.

If none of the above help you to gain your child's attention, you may need to put the TV on mute or turn it off all together. Give your child a few seconds to switch their attention to you before you begin speaking to them. Remember to stay calm, even though the whole incident may have frustrated you a bit. It was most likely unintentional and just a typical behavior in the developing mind of a child.

Do you want to learn exactly how to eliminate your child's out-of-control and defiant behavior without using Punishments, Time-Outs, Behavioral Plans, or Rewards?

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Outdoor Toys For Kids That Will Improve Their Development and Still Be Fun

at 11:19 PM 0 comments
In this day and age, it is so easy for children to stay indoors and play with video games or watch TV, or even play on the computer. But due to this sedentary life, many children are falling behind in emotional, physical and developmental growth. Children have an innate desire to learn new things if they are both encouraged and stimulated. As a parent, finding play things such as outdoor toys for kids will allow them to have fun and improve both their fine and gross motor skills.

Children learn the best when they are able to explore and have fun. Outdoor toys for kids such as a basketball or football set is great for teaching older kids hand to eye coordination and how to play with other children as a team player or in a competitive spirit.

Outdoor toys for kids come in all forms and purposes. Children love to mimic their elders. If they see mommy or daddy outdoors playing in the garden, they will be sure to get down in the dirt with you. By buying items such as "Melissa and Doug Sunny Patch Toys" which are a wide selection of plastic gardening tools like a rake, gloves, tool caddies, and watering cans, you can help encourage your child to learn new skills. You child will learn how nature grows and benefits life. He will learn dexterity, and discipline. You could use this time for role playing, or telling stories while you teach your child about nature.

Razor Sole Skates are becoming one of the popular outdoor toys for kids of an older age. This product is not only fun, but one of the best tools for teaching balance, and coordination. These types of toys are great for teaching your child persistence and determination as well while they consistently practice to improve their performance.

The Pacific One Touch Play Tents are great for spurring your child's imagination and learning to role play with others. Set one up in the backyard and watch how your child learns to interact with his friends as they play out creative scenarios running in and around these outdoor fun houses.

While there are many outdoor toys for kids products on the market today, some popular favorites for parents of little ones who are still just learning so much, are the children's ride on toys such as the Radio Flyer Big Wheel, and the John Deere Heavy Hauler. Children will spend hours on these fun toys perfecting their coordination and balance. There is no limit to the imagination with these types of toys while children can learn to express themselves both alone or with a group of friends.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Should You Listen What Others Tell You When Raising Your Child is in Question?

at 4:58 PM 0 comments
First thing that I would like to point to is that raising the child is the most difficult thing in the world. If you are the committed and devoted parents, you will find this out very soon after birth of your child. Everything that you do has the opposite effect from what you imagined it should be like and from what you wanted to achieve. Parents often do not know what to do any more, what is the right way to handle situations with their child so they search for some general rules. But can those rules be applied to every single child in order to achieve positive results?

When I watch movies, or listen to different stories from different people any place, any time, I always attend to try to use something from other people's experiences. However, sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. I struggle with finding the best solution for all sorts of situations and I cannot be sure that they are completely correct. But what gives us some sort of comfort is that we as parents are present in our children's lives all the time and we will stay as long as they depend on us.

It is always good to be sensible about accepting advices from other people. They do not know your child as you do. They do not know and feel what you do for your child so everything that someone tells you about your child's behavior, take with certain reserve. You are the one who decides what you will accept and what you will not because parents are the only ones who have their children's best interest in mind.

What is very important is that parents search for best solutions all the time. It is actually good to read a lot about how to raise children, how to handle different situations. As I already mentioned, others people experiences can help you big deal but only if you evaluate what can work for your child. Not one child is the same as another child so what works for one, does not apply for another.

We cannot know what life will bring tomorrow for any of us, but loving your children unconditionally and being present in their lives from birth to the day that they became independent is something that you can and should do regardless to what anyone thinks and says. Only under these circumstances, you can expect some positive outcomes.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Nursing Your Sick Child

at 10:38 AM 0 comments
As a parent, having to deal with days when our kids have to stay home from school, sick, is inevitable. Of course, we gladly rearrange our schedules for our kids' needs, but we can't help but wonder where our kids could have caught that bug.

Initially, we're most likely to blame our kids' school. But if you think about it, how many times do we send our kids to school, even if it's just a slight cold or cough? It's really a double-edged sword.

To help you decide whether it would be a good idea to keep your kids home or send them to school in such a situation, here are a few tips:

First of all, assess how they're feeling. If they feel tired and feverish, definitely have them stay home. Fevers are a sign that your child can be contagious to others.

It always helps to be courteous to the other children at school. Your kid will thank you, and so will the other mom's of the children at school.

However, if your child is not feeling that bad, and is just suffering from a simple cold or cough, giving them some cold medicine will suffice. It would also help to teach them basic hygiene tips such as properly discarding used tissues and washing their hands regularly. It would also help to put in a small bottle of hand sanitizer in their back pack for such instances.

Train them to cover their mouths or use their upper arm to block their sneeze. This will help them avoid spreading germs.

A lot of people may not realize this, but proper hygiene can help prevent your child from getting sick or contracting diseases. Always have them wash their hands after using the restroom and before meals. We can't always protect our kids from every germ in existence, but we can teach them to do what they can for simple preventative measures.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Ride on Toy Motorcycles Offer Key Elements For Enhancing Your Child's Fine Motor Skills

at 4:17 AM 0 comments
As children grow they want to learn and explore new things. When they can walk, they want to run. When they get mobile, they want to climb, or move fast with whatever fun thing they can find to entertain themselves with. As some toys are not as safe as others, it is a parent's job to choose a suitable riding toy for their child. The following article will discuss some available choices that have been popular with other parents.

If your child has grown out of his little 3 wheeler and is looking for a more challenging ride on toy, there are several options available. The Trademark Power Wheels Harley Davidson Battery Operated Motorcycle can be purchased for around $100 and even comes in pink for the girls.

These bikes are very realistic looking and include a start up button, a horn button, a working headlight and taillight, and can even drive up to 3 miles per hour. This cool ride on toy motorcycle even goes in reverse for those little daredevils who would like to challenge their coordination skills. These are suitable for ages 2-4 and are safer than a bicycle due to thicker wheels to support balance, and a wider base for seating which will allow your child to feel more secure while riding around.

For those little ones who are just starting out and still learning balance and coordination, there are other ride on toy motorcycles like the Step 2 Plastic Manual motorcycle. This sleek motorcycle design resembles racing models and are the perfect thing to stimulate your child's imagination while they go zipping around the yard, or down the street. At a more affordable price of $29.95, almost every child can enjoy one.

Let us not forget our little girls who would love a Little Princess motorcycle. This 3 wheeled battery operated toy features real rumbling motor sounds, forward and reverse motion driving capability, and working rear and front headlights. This delight will speed up to 2 miles per hour and can hold up to 55 pounds. This item is still affordable at $60. Let your little girl ride with the big boys on her pink shiny ride on toy motorcycle and you can rest assured that she is safe sitting on a wide base bottom with thick plastic wheels that grip the road to prevent easy skidding or sliding.

For those parents who have a little more money and are looking to build a play set in their backyard, another fun idea for ride on toy motorcycles, is the SportsPlay Motorcycle Spring Rider. This toy is made from rotomolded plastic and looks just like the real thing. It is sturdy and weatherproof, being able to withstand the elements of nature when placed in an outdoor playground area. At $550 not all parents will find it a worthwhile investment unless they are running a home day care or have many children within the 2-5 age range who would love to pretend to be race car drivers.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Potty Training in 3 Days - Can it Be Done?

at 9:57 PM 0 comments
Parents, particularly working parents, are often looking for the quickest potty training program they can design because usually time is vitally important for parents who live a busy lifestyle. However, when I say potty training program or a program parents can design, often that is just exactly what parents do not have when starting potty training their child. If you want your child potty trained in 3 days or close as possible to 3 days, planning and following a structured program is essential.

Important components of a well structured training program should include such things as:

· Preparation

· Clear instructions and directions, knowing exactly what you are doing and why

· Getting the timing right

· Keeping your child in the lowest stress state as possible during the ups and downs of potty training

· Alternative programs running at the same time for twins or multiples

· Strategies around sleep time

· Dealing with bedwetting and resistance

· Phobias and power struggles

· How to best deliver rewards and praise

· Dealing with medical issues

Now all of this also depends on your child. All children are different and will react differently to different ideas and programs. Often it is what suits your child not what suits the parent. So when you are looking for information to assist you, make sure you have a program that is flexible and broad, offering an array of different techniques and tips for you and your child to try.

Even more important is if you are purchasing a program looking for one that offers a guarantee of results is definitely recommended. If the purchase is refundable when results are not achieved, then this can be your safety net if the program does not suit your child.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Parenting the Early Years

at 3:36 PM 0 comments
Where to start with being a parent? Some would say that your journey as a parent begins with your first nappy/sleepless night/feed, whichever came first in yours and your child's shared adventure. Personally, I felt my journey was initiated the moment I saw those two blue lines. Suddenly, everything I did had an impact on two people. A mind blowing prospect but one I relished the thought of. From that day on I was a parent, the most challenging role I was ever going to take on, but the one that has made me the person I am. Being a mum is choc-full of mini adventures that all merge together to become one long steeplechase.

Of course, parenting is full of questions, some you ask yourself, some others ask of you, and those that your son and/or daughter expect you to have the definitive answers to. I'm going to take you on a short trip to have a peek at how I bring up my three children. We've got to the age of seven and a half, and although I don't by any means have all the answers, those areas that my beautiful children have enlightened me in leave me feeling like a semi guru on parenting in the early days. Follow me.....

WHEN YOUR TWO YEAR OLD WONT EAT.

OK, firstly, nearly all children will at some point in their childhood be picky about what passes their lips. Some will go in phases as to what they will and will not eat. Most children have certain 'NO WAY' foods too. But what to do when your youngster just plain wont eat? As a mum, you naturally want to do the best for your children at all times, this encompasses their sleep patterns, their learning, their diet. It can be very stressful when one's daughter sits and shakes her head at every meal put in front of her. I first experienced this when my newly weaned first daughter suddenly WOULD NOT open her mouth to eat. Both she and I would end up in tears, I feeling like I was failing as a mum, and she upset and exhausted. We over came this after not too long at all (though it didn't feel like it at the time). Put simply, I needed to back off and stop pressuring her, with gentle persuasion and a lot of patience, slowly she began to try little bits of meals, at just 5 months old I needed to learn to read her moods and get to know her personality. I was a new mum and it was difficult to be relaxed about such things.

Second time round, with my now middle child, weaning went smoothly. Then, without warning she became awkward with her food. She was two years old (not uncommon for a two year old to be 'terrible', I know), suddenly, although she was progressing in every other way, the only food she would eat willingly was cake. Can't blame the girl can you? But to me this was worrying, often accompanied by an upset tummy and pale skin, I worried she may have some medical issues. Of course I got her checked out by a doctor, tests were carried out and all came back clear. In the meantime I tried cajoling, rewarding, being strict, removing toys, anything to get her to have some sort of balance to her diet. But no, cakes and biscuits were the only things she could consume without getting upset. So, in the end I let her, hard though it was I let her have the sweet stuff. All my instincts told me otherwise but, as it turned out it was a phase. In hindsight, her problem with food was probably triggered by my separation from her dad which resulted in me and my children moving house. I didn't make the connection at the time because in every other way she was fine. Again, once I had ruled out the possibility of illness, all it took was patience. Patience and understanding.

WHEN SIBLINGS ARGUE.

Not an uncommon occurrence, not something that one should be overly concerned about, in fact a perfectly normal part of growing up. And yet, when it's your two shouting, crying, generally making a racket it can seem like such a huge deal. In our house we have some unwritten rules about such events, probably without either my husband or I being aware that they exist. For example; you're in the kitchen and you hear a ruckus coming from the front room, where your two 'little darlings' were peacefully watching TV just moments ago

1. Sneak up. (Sounds awful, I know, but this way you may get to see for yourself who's hurting/ annoying/ being mean to who).

2. Get down to their level. Talk calmly but with authority, ask what's happened, allow each child to speak separately.

3. Be tactile. Putting a hand on both children's arms shows that you're not taking sides.

4. Listen to both sides. Then console, scold of necessary, but explain why you are doing so.

5. Apologies. Get both children to say sorry and maybe hug to make up.

6. Distraction. Suggest a new game, or task that they can both be involved in.

7. Stay close. For a few minutes after the altercation remain in the room if possible so that they both know you're 'on duty'.

Probably the key to minimising arguments and sibling rivalry is to lead by example; be thoughtful, empathetic and be available. If, as a parent, you're there to listen, guide and discipline your offspring then they will respect you, and the other members of their family. Respect breeds consideration.

WHEN YOUR 7 YEAR OLD ASKS ABOUT CHILDBIRTH.

Over breakfast one school morning my daughter pipes up " mummy, I know that babies don't come out of your belly button.... does that mean they come out of 'your bits'?" Bless her, the workings of a child's mind are fascinating. Why on earth would she be thinking about childbirth whilst eating cereal and getting ready for school? But there it was. Keenly, she waited for my reply whilst chewing her cornflakes. Although slightly flustered, I knew that I needed to be honest. So I kept it simple "Yes darling, when a baby is born it comes out of 'your bits'". Next question "How does a baby know when to come out?". Ermmm...my little girl had her thinking head on today!..."When a baby has grown as big as it needs to be the mummy's body knows it's time for it to come out". Was that it, could I return to the washing up and she go and brush her teeth? No, she had another one for me, "does it hurt?", I didn't want to scare her but as her mum it is my job to be honest, "yes, it does....but it's worth it". "Eeek, then I'm never having any!". Hehe, conversation over, on with shoes and coats and off to school. And, if I say so myself, I think I handled that quite well, phew! So there it is, in my opinion, simple and honest answers are always best, don't give more information than they've asked for and don't be worried about being truthful, that's how your child will learn about the world around them.

Next time;

-When your 5 year old is naughty at school.


-When your baby wont settle at night.

-When your daughter is being bullied.

And many more 'tricks of the trade'. Come back soon to get a peek at how I am mummy, and still (fairly) sane!

(C) Copyright Jema Preece-Kelly April 2010

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Character Education is Everywhere

at 9:16 AM 0 comments
Character education isn't anything new. It's recently received a formal label. However, adults have been teaching character for years. Maybe it wasn't in a formal class setting, but that doesn't matter. Parents and grandparents, teachers, coaches and anyone who interacts with kids is a teacher of character.

Anyone who helps shape a child's personality and view of life is a character educator. Do you disagree with that statement? Well, consider this. You influence the children you interact with in a number of ways, including:

1. The way you talk. Do you use a lot of foul language? If so, the children around you may pick up the same habit. You're basically showing them that it's fine to use bad language. Unless someone else shows them otherwise, they will probably start speaking the same way.

You can also influence their manner of speech. Do you use slang all the time? Do you speak proper English, Spanish or whatever language you speak? Using slang and improper forms of speech can influence children as well. Have you ever heard an older child speak who sounds like they don't understand the language? It's probably because they've picked up negative speech patterns from an adult.

2. Your behavior. Do you allow children to see you blatantly lying? Do you treat people unfairly? Any such behaviors can influence what children do. Children are heavily influenced by how adults behave. They pay more attention to what you do as opposed to what you tell them to do. If your actions contradict your words, children will pay closer attention to your actions.

3. The behavior you allow. How do you allow children to behave? Do you let them litter without telling them to clean it up? Do you allow them to run in the house? Children will think anything is fine unless you tell them otherwise.

Character education occurs all the time. Not only does it occur at home, but in schools, churches and other settings. Pay close attention to how you speak and act around children. You could possibly change a life.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

5 Key Steps to Build Your Child's Self Esteem

at 2:55 AM 0 comments
We all know, as adults, that self-esteem is important as it's a fragile thing. Indeed, in our life, we experience ups and downs in our own self-esteem because it depends on several factors. I'm here to talk to you about building your child's self-esteem. It's a very important thing, probably one of the most important things you have to bring to your child. How he feels about himself as a child will determine his behavior now and in the future.

To put some clear words on the self-esteem notion, we can say that it's about feeling capable of doing things, feeling loved, knowing we belong to a group of people, a family, that people need us, that we have a unique value and that the things we accomplish are worthwhile. Your child's self-esteem is the root of his personality and I'm glad to share with you 5 key steps to build it.

1- Pay attention and listen to what your child says. Make eye contact while he talks. React, answer, ask questions, show interest to make him feel that what he experiences has value. He'll feel important through your eyes, and that means a lot to him. Take that precious time.

2- Encourage your child. Tell him you believe in him but be careful not to put too much pressure on him. Don't seek perfection. Acknowledge the good things he does and when he fails at doing something, acknowledge the fact that he tried and the progress he made.

3- Don't compare your child to his friends or brothers and sisters. Never. Even positively. Just celebrate his uniqueness. Don't tell him he's good comparing to others, or better or nicer. He's just himself and you like him for his uniqueness. It'll help him value himself rather than trying to compete with others.

4- Show it's ok to make mistakes. Tell him we all do some, talk about your own mistakes. Make him understand his mistakes are here to help him understand things and do better next time.

5- Show him and tell him that you love him in an unconditional way. Yes, you love him no matter what. This is extremely important. Your love for your child isn't always obvious for him. Indeed, children often mistake punishments for a lack of love, especially when parents don't explain everything. To build your child's self-esteem, you have to explain that when you punish, it's because his behavior is unacceptable, not him. Never say he's a bad kid. Kiss him a lot, hug him a lot and say you love him no matter who he is, no matter what he does. It's the best thing you can do to help him build his self-esteem, make him know he has your unconditional love.

I do hope you'll apply these key steps and will seize the importance of building your child's self-esteem in every reaction you have, in every thing he does. Be coherent, constant in your love and rules. Giving tools for your child to become a responsible, loving and sensitive adult is the best thing you can do for him.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Getting Your Kids to Listen

at 8:35 PM 0 comments
As parents we often ask ourselves, "Why isn't my child listening to me?" We seem to have the assumption that just because we say something, our child should automatically obey. Wouldn't that be nice? Well it seldom works that way. In fact, it is frequently the total opposite. We sometimes find that when we tell our child to do something, they don't do it. Or, when we ask our child not to do a particular thing, they do it anyway. Why is this? Well this happens for a number of reasons including rebellion, misunderstandings, and sometimes our children are just testing us. Whatever the cause may be, there are ways to increase the chances of our child listening to us.

Talk to your child instead of talking at them. Lectures can sometimes be discouraging. Try talking to your children about what you want them to do. Encourage your child to engage in the conversation by asking questions.

It also helps to be non-judgmental when talking with your child. Judging actually does more harm than good because it causes a feeling of shame, which sometimes leads to rebellion. There is a way to tell your child what is acceptable behavior without judging them.

Try discussing issues with your child before they come up. Talk to your child about listening at a time when everything is calm and there is no issue. Children are more likely to listen and actually remember when issues are discussed while they are in a calm mood. While you and your child are just sitting around or having fun, it would be a nice time to tell them how good it feels when they listen to you. You should also ask them how it feels when people listen to them.

Be a good example. It is important for you to listen to your child when he or she is trying to relay a message to you. This can be a verbal message or one shown through behavior. Tell them what you are getting out of the message. So they will know for sure that you understand and that you were really listening. If you pay attention to your child, they are more likely to listen to you.

Follow through. If you have established consequences and they are clear to your child, it is important to follow through. Children are very smart and they know when they can get away with things. If there is no follow through, it sends the message that they don't have to listen because there won't be a consequence.

In conclusion, we need to remember that each individual child is different. It is important that we know our child so we know what type of technique works for him or her. This is why we have to try to strengthen the bonds with our children. Having a close relationship with your child is very important. Children with distant relationships with their parents are less likely to listen to them. Children need to know that we care and that they are being heard. Once we start listening to our children, they will start listening to us.

If you are having trouble getting kids to listen to your requests there is help available.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Kids Teeth Brushing Tips

at 2:14 PM 0 comments
It is important to educate your little ones the importance of brushing teeth from tender age. Babies can start brushing as soon as the first tooth appear.

This have to be done by a caregiver until they capable of brushing thorough brushing on their own especially for the bedtime brush. This would also include other dental products. The bedtime brush is the most important brush of the day as we have to clean the teeth completely and avoid plague build up during sleep.

However, you may still want your child to 'practice' brushing in the morning. This can help the child to apply the same strength you do for her as for bedtime brush.

Educating Your Child About Oral Health - Essential Practice

1. Reduce / avoid sweetened food like chocolates, sweets, sweet drinks and food.

2. Brush at least twice a day with a soft bristles brush. Usually children (or even adult) tend to miss out hard to reach edges. However, those will be more critical areas to pay attention to.

3. Use dental products like floss or inter dental brush from the age of 4 onwards.

4. Start on with diluted amount or mouth gargle when the child is ready. The child must also be capable of gargling and spitting because you do not want him/her to accidentally swallow any mouth gargle - even in small amount.

5. Make a dental appointment for your child every 6 months for a professional cleaning.

By the way tips:

If your child happen to drop a tooth during an accident, here is what to do:

1. Quickly recover the tooth but DO NOT rinse it with water.

2. Store it in MILK and bring child to nearest dentist for reattachment.

3. Place cotton at gums to stop bleeding.

Monday, September 6, 2010

Toddler Discipline - A Big Challenge Awaits

at 7:54 AM 0 comments
One of life's biggest challenges is to become a parent. Parenting is a skill that you learn along the way. It's often a rocky road of ups and downs. Some people will find parenting easier than others but to be a good parent not only means to show your toddler love, it also means to teach them the differences between right and wrong. This is usually done in the form of toddler discipline. If your toddler does wrong then disciplining them tells them they have done wrong. The same if they do good, we show them that what they have done is good by rewarding them in some form.

With any challenge, especially parenting, you will have your good moments and your bad moments. Things may be going smoothly at one point, then be completely turned on its head the next.

One point that parents can struggle with is toddler discipline. This is any parent, not just new parents. One form of toddler discipline may work on one toddler but will be completely ineffective on another.

This is the challenge you face, learning what forms of discipline will work for your toddler and what will not work. It's all about trial and error.

All toddlers need discipline. Without discipline how are they to understand what is right and what is wrong? It also teaches them that they are responsible for their actions. It teaches them about what is good behavior and what is bad behavior.

One thing you need to remember when using your chosen form of discipline is that however your toddler responds to it, you should stay calm. This helps you to stay in control, and shows that you are the boss, and any temper tantrums or hissy fits your toddler may throw, you are the one that is in control.

However much you find yourself having to discipline your toddler, you should still show them love and affection, no matter how mad inside they may make you feel. Your toddler needs to know they are loved by you, and if you have a good bond then the chances are that the better behaved your toddler will be, and that makes everyone happy.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Goal Setting and the Law of Attraction For Children

at 1:33 AM 0 comments
Do you remember when you were a kid and all things seemed possible? Being an astronaut, a ballerina, a doctor or the owner of a gas station, seemed exciting and attainable.

For most of us as we grew, reality set in. Even if our parents encouraged and supported us, there were times when most of us felt as if we were caught up in the wheel of life and were being pushed along by the masses. In the meantime dreams were taken over by worrying about bills, jobs, and the concerns about providing for a significant other or children of our own.

We learned through societal teachings, that it was selfish to pursue things that were not mainstream or that did not fit into our immediate lifestyle. Staying in a job that made you unhappy was something you did in order to be "responsible". Eventually we all hoped to make it to retirement where the grim statistics of realizing our dreams seemed significantly diminished.

The easiest time to educate someone about knowing how to attain goals, no matter what they are, is in childhood. Though the Law of Attraction and goal setting can attain "gold" for anyone at any age, children are open to this concept and learn to direct their energy toward what they wish to accomplish, very easily.

Teaching a young child to set a goal and to take steps to attain that goal may sound premature, but it is a skill when learned at an early age, that carries a child into adulthood with the tools to attain much larger and loftier goals. This could include a dream job, a dream mate, abundance in every facet of their lives, including good friends, money, good health, all things that are well within our grasp when we learn to harness our own power.

Who doesn't want these things for their child? Most of the teachings for these subjects are targeted to adults and may be a little mature for the young child or adolescent, but it is never too early to sit down with your child and talk with them about what they want. Of course there will be goals that change from week to week. But starting with short term goals, like wanting an A in English or a remote control car they saw in a hobby shop, can all be broken down into steps.

Start by listening to your child. Pick up clues from your conversations with them or hearing them speak to others. It is important that you are genuinely interested, because they will look to you for direction and support along the way, and especially if things go off track.

Find a comfortable place to sit and ask questions about what your child wants to have in their life in the next month, six months, or longer. Examine one wish at a time. Break it down into steps to make it look more attainable. If appropriate, keep a calendar where your child can see their progress or find some other way to keep track of the journey, like keeping a diary or journaling. Don't forget to record other good things that happen along the way - these are oftentimes the result of the Law of Attraction and the childs' power to manifest.

Once your child sees how much control they really have over their own desires and happiness, they will become motivated and focused on larger and more important targets. This practice will build self confidence, something we know to be priceless and something that will serve them all throughout life.

Helping a child realize their own Law of Attraction, can be the best gift you can give them, both for today and for the future. It will become habit and they will automatically and effortlessly formulate a plan when a new goal comes on the horizon.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Lessons on Effective Single Parenting - How to Raise Well Rounded Kids

at 7:13 PM 0 comments
Whether you are a single parent by choice or by circumstance, the rules on effective single parenting basically remain the same. Any single parent should use these rules as their guide so that they can successfully raise well-rounded kids.

The first thing to know about effective single parenting is that being one doesn't mean you have to be alone. Having people to help you and a solid support group you can rely on cannot instantly diminish the feeling of loneliness but it can keep you balanced emotionally and in dire cases, financially. Your family members and closest friends can help you build an atmosphere where your children would never feel that they lack something in their lives - especially love and warmth.

Effective single parenting means separating your feelings of anger and bitterness from your children. If you are dealing with a divorce, remember that whatever happened to you are because of your life choices so do not ever put the blame on the kids. Also, be sure to give them an assurance that it's not their fault. Kids are very sensitive when facing issues such as death or divorce and your assurance will give them a sense of security.

The challenge of being a single parent means you have to deal with the financial burden of raising kids alone. Effective single parenting encourages finding financial stability while giving your kids their needs. The key here is in making your kids understand that the needs of the family come first and their wants are secondary to this priority. This doesn't mean you deprive them. Teach your kids to be frugal and learn the value of every cent that comes in. If they can't have the luxuries they want, teach them to be creative.

Every child loves their parents' dependability. Effective single parenting would tell you to be a solid rock your children can lean on. Create an atmosphere that would make them feel that they can trust you and that you will always be there to love them. Children grow better when they feel that they don't have to change themselves just to reach your possibly unrealistic expectations of them.

Many men and women have managed to raise great kids despite being single parents. If you use these tips on effective single parenting, you will find that despite being alone and despite the trials, raising your kids is still a pretty rewarding experience.

 

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