Celebrate Success

Every time your toddler succeeded in using the potty, celebrate and make him / her feel good about the achievement. The child will feel encouraged to ‘repeat’ the performance.

Practice eating with utensils

When teaching your little one to eat with a spoon, practice is the key. Although familiar, the concept of using a utensil on his own is completely new.

Get the whole family active

Plan times for everyone to get moving together. Take walks, ride bikes, go swimming, garden or just play hide-and-seek outside.

Party standards for number of kids to invite

Follow the old birthday party planning rule of inviting the same number of young guests as your child’s age.

Baby skin is very delicate

Your babies skin is very delicate. Be sure to choose all natural bath and skin care products that soothe and protect them.

Making time for kids

Put time aside weekly (if not daily at dinner) for one on one time or family time.

Let kids help when shopping

Let your kids hold the bag while you pick the pears. Ask their opinion on creamy or chunky peanut butter. The pre-schooler loves grownup jobs

Sharing is learned

Sharing is not something that is innate in a child and they will only learn it through your constant observation and guidance.

Fireworks and tot safety

Sparklers, considered by many the ideal ‘safe’ firework for the young, burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing.

Safety around BBQs

Children are naturally curious about BBQs. Each year about 1,000 people suffer burns. Stay safe this holiday.

July 4th fireworks tip

To prepare a toddler for the fireworks, watch a video to Let them see how the fireworks look and sound in the comfort of their own home.

Pack the pocket wipes

Carry individually packaged antibacterial wipes in your pocket for quick clean up.

Always use a car safety seat

Be sure your child rides in correctly installed seat. If you have any questions, many local fire and police departments will help you

Hot drink safety tip

Drink hot beverages out of spill-proof and unbreakable travel mugs to avoid burns.

Avoiding sharing issues with todders

If you know that it is going to be an issue to share a special toy then try to leave it at home. Don’t expect other kids not to want to play with it.

Ideals on discipline

If you and your spouse differ on parenting ideas or discipline, talk about it separately from the child. Present a unified front.

choking hazard at age 2+

Many people assume if their 2 year old has teeth, they can’t choke on a grape, but don’t choke due to a lack of chewing ability but rather if they are not securely and can get distracted.

When motor skills develop in kids

Along with climbing, toddler will be developing ability to run & jump. These skills are part of gross motor development, or large muscle functions that control the movements.

Scissors for crafts

For crafts, in addition to adult scissors for you, purchase a pair of safety scissors for your child.

When to begin toilet training.

Toilet train your child from 18 mos to 4 years. Anything earlier is likely a waste of time as tots below that age has no or little control over the bladder and bowel movements