Every child needs sleep, even if it is not when you do! They catch short naps at first, growing into longer periods of rest as their activity levels increase. The key is to set some guidelines for your little one so that the entire family gets to experience normality.
Now, I know how hard this can be initially. Baby boy isn't sleepy. Baby girl had a late nap. You are not at home to put them down just yet. The grandparents are visiting and want more time with him or her. Yeah, yeah, still the child must sleep.
By setting a bedtime you help everyone identify a pattern to follow, including the infant or toddler. Typically a bath, putting on PJ's, moving to the nursery and maybe a story are good signals that bedtime is here. For example saying, " OK son, it's time for beddy-by. Let's get ready for your nice warm bath to calm you down, then mommy, or daddy , or someone will read you a story." Toddlers may even play quietly in their room for a few moments before bed. You will have to repeat the plan and goal - it is time to lay down and go to sleep, it is time for bed.
I promise you will be happier in a short time. There are even kids who go to bed on their own once they understand the process. But I'm not suggesting yours will be one of them!
When you have changes like visitors, or are away from home be aware of your plan. Stand firm on your timetable and just explain about bedtime. These are the small sacrifices that bring big rewards as a parent.
One last thing - try to avoid feeding your child just before bedtime. Any snack should be eaten at least 2 hours before they go down. This helps them sleep more soundly.
Be patient and you will soon have time at the end of your day for adult activities because you little one will be resting comfortably in their bed.
Parenting - the happiest job you'll ever have!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Assigning chores - Have fun with it!
Children can honestly begin to have responsibility for tasks around the house as early as 3. Surprised? You should know that the average child has command of 200+ words. Many more than NO!
One of the first tasks they can assume is picking up their toys after play. This requires you, the parent, to have a place for those toys that is accessible and established. A box, bin, basket or whatever located in a common area is perfect.
By making it a little game you toddler will join in readily. The simple direction of " please pick up your toys and put them away" is not enough. Of course, you need to demonstrate what you expect a few times to help the child understand.
For example, tell you child that you have a new game called 'Toy Pile" or whatever you want to call it. In this case, Mr. Clean needs your help to build a toy pile to stop Dirty Dan. Dirty Dan can't come if everything is in order. So make it a timed event and quickly pick up and store the toys. Talk along the way to your child about being fast and efficient. Such statements as " Hurry dear, Dirty Dan is coming. Mr. Clean is depending on us to help him. Baby you are doing such a good job stacking your toys. Mr. Clean will be so happy. Mom is glad you are so smart and strong and can move so fast."
Remember to praise and show appreciate for a job well done. Kids really want to make us happy at that age so most will easily repeat the pattern. This can be extended to their rooms as well. Again be sure to have a specific place to put items.
You will enjoy having this transferred to your child and seeing how dedicated each becomes. They will mimic this by telling you to put your toys away, and instruct play dates to do the same. I did nothing but chuckle at this behavior.
Parenting - the happiest job you'll ever have!
One of the first tasks they can assume is picking up their toys after play. This requires you, the parent, to have a place for those toys that is accessible and established. A box, bin, basket or whatever located in a common area is perfect.
By making it a little game you toddler will join in readily. The simple direction of " please pick up your toys and put them away" is not enough. Of course, you need to demonstrate what you expect a few times to help the child understand.
For example, tell you child that you have a new game called 'Toy Pile" or whatever you want to call it. In this case, Mr. Clean needs your help to build a toy pile to stop Dirty Dan. Dirty Dan can't come if everything is in order. So make it a timed event and quickly pick up and store the toys. Talk along the way to your child about being fast and efficient. Such statements as " Hurry dear, Dirty Dan is coming. Mr. Clean is depending on us to help him. Baby you are doing such a good job stacking your toys. Mr. Clean will be so happy. Mom is glad you are so smart and strong and can move so fast."
Remember to praise and show appreciate for a job well done. Kids really want to make us happy at that age so most will easily repeat the pattern. This can be extended to their rooms as well. Again be sure to have a specific place to put items.
You will enjoy having this transferred to your child and seeing how dedicated each becomes. They will mimic this by telling you to put your toys away, and instruct play dates to do the same. I did nothing but chuckle at this behavior.
Parenting - the happiest job you'll ever have!
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