Rhyming

Emphasize rhythms and rhymes in stories. Give your toddler opportunities to repeat rhyming phrases.

Orange juicing activity

Cut an orange in half and then show your toddler how to squeeze the juice from the fruit. After your toddler is done twisting back and forth, pour the juice in its cup.

Teething patterns

Teething patterns vary greatly from child to child – some don’t have any teeth at their first birthday, while others are sporting a mouthful by then. The vast majority of babies sprout their first teeth between 4 and 7 months of age.

Allergies and school lunch

Educate the cafeteria staff. If your child will be purchasing school lunches, It’s recommended meeting with the cafeteria staff and providing them with a picture of your child. This will help them identify your child so they can steer them toward smart choices when buying their lunch.

Playdates and pets

When hosting playdates, as a courtesy, tell your guests ahead of time if you have any pets. Moms and kids may not be able to attend because they have allergies, and it’s best for them to know before they show up and start sneezing.

Calcium-fortified

Many toddlers do not get adequate calcium, which is found primarily in dairy products. Calcium-fortified juices, tofu, cereals and some green vegetables can also provide calcium.

Teething and eating

Teething kids may not like to eat, but small sips of water helps keep them hydrated.

Listen to your toddler’s answers

Take time to listen to your toddler’s answers. Toddlers have strong opinions and interesting ideas about the world.

Preschooler in charge

Putting your preschooler in charge of a regular, simple task will build her confidence and sense of competency.

Getting allergy symptoms under control.

Review what you can do when you are having a hard time getting your child’s allergy symptoms under control.

Digital photo archive activity

Going on a trip? Fill up the iPhone or iPod with family photos and videos. Toddlers love going through the family digital photo archive.

Planning a play date

When planning a playdate, don’t invite everyone you know. It’s not a carnival. It’s a date. So pick one friend your kid really likes… or one mom you really like.

Signs of teething

Watch for telltale signs of teething such as bright red cheeks, low fever, unusual irritability, and changes in nursing, feeding or sleeping patterns.

Toddler field trips

Take your toddler for a field trip to identify things around him. Try to recognize tracks in the snow, collect pine cones, look for the little animals.

Choosing foods

If you’re unsure whether your preschooler is going to eat the meal you took time to prepare, choose foods that are easily saved until the next meal or snack time.

Reading problems and school

74% of the children who are diagnosed with reading problems in the 3rd grade, continue with problems into the 9th grade.

Constructing toys

Construct all disassembled toys the night before. Kids don’t want to open up a box.

Visiting with the tots during the holidays

When you’re visiting friends and family during the holidays, try to minimize any disruption to your toddler’s schedule as much as possible

Christmas tree safety tip

Use LED lights that burn cool so your child does not get burnt if they should grab a Christmas light inadvertently.

Age appropriate toys

Make sure the toys you give are appropriate for the child’s age, as babies & toddlers can choke on small parts or swallow components.