Q&A: Child Behavior For A Three Year Old

Parenting Question

"I'm spiraling out of control with my three-year-old daughter. She won't listen to me and I know that the 'naughty bench' isn't working. I'm at a total loss and feel like such a failure. I don't want to hit her or use the kind of strong verbal yelling that my parents did. What do I do? I want her to understand that I'm the boss and when I ask her to do something or obey something, she should do it. My father was giving me parenting advice today and I feel so out of control. Is this normal child behaviour for a three-year-old?"
~ Out-of-Control Mom>

Positive Parenting Tip for Child Behaviour for a Three Year Old

Dear Out-of-Control Mom:

Firstly, you are NOT a failure--just a mom who needs some new tools.

My guess is that you haven't had many courses on how to deal with three-year-old behaviour, so be gentle with yourself.

Many parents ask me what's "normal" when it comes to child behaviour for a three-year-old. No matter what your child's age, what it comes down to is this: how is your child's behaviour working for you, and how is it working for them. From your question, I sense it just ain't working--period!

So let's first look at what is going on for your daughter. Children at the pre-school stage are developing a whole host of new skills, including: wanting  more independence (for example, "No, I want to do it by myself!"); asserting their wants ("I want that!"); and learning about friendship ("Give that back!"). One of the best things you can do when parenting a three-year-old is to support your child in attaining these new skills without allowing them to become demanding or spoiled. To ensure you don't fall into unhealthy habits that promote power struggles, choose to use a firm--but kind--approach and look for ways that your child can learn from each situation.

The more you can allow your three-year-old to do things on her own (and they won't be perfect), the less likely she will be to fight you on everything. Look for household tasks that she can do at her age and find ways that she can help you out. Have her fill the dog bowl, hold the door open for you when you are bringing groceries into the house, set the table, etc. The busier you can keep her doing positive behaviors, the less chance she will move towards negative ones.

Be warned: even if you take this approach, your daughter is still going to test you. Below are six simple steps for dealing with three-year-olds when they just won't listen:

1. Let Go of Timeouts - Timeouts can work for some children (but there are far better techniques). Ultimately, the only person we can control is ourselves. If time-outs are not working (that is, your child refuses to go to the "naughty bench", stay on the "naughty bench", or tells you they make their own rules and have moved the "naughty bench"), look for other ways to inspire them to want to be well-behaved (as suggested in the following five steps).

2. Fire Yourself as Boss of the Household! - Many parents buy into the belief that mom should be the boss of the household and be in control. Yet, we must remember that we are modelling for our children how to act every single minute of the day. Our kids learn more from what we do than from what we say. If they see us pulling rank as "boss", they will attempt to be "boss" too. Unfortunately, when this happens, they may outrank us and the real power struggles will begin!

3. Provide Flexibility with Boundaries - Instead of boss, see yourself as your child's coach or guide, responsible for providing them with experiences to learn from and allowing them to experience the consequences of their actions. Give clear guidelines, but also give them flexibility too. For example, "Your toys need to be cleaned up before we go to Grandma's. Do you want to clean them up now, or in 5 minutes from now?" If they still don't clean up, then you might not go to Grandma's that day. Children need to know what the rules are and, more importantly, they need to know you will follow-through with the rules. Once you become consistent with your behaviour, your children will learn to trust what you say and will improve their behaviour accordingly.

4. Stay Firm (but Kind) - If they fight, you follow-through. Do this without yelling, scolding or punishing. Don't buy into their tears, and definitely don't get into a debate. Stay firm, but stay kind. Tell them that when they want a hug, to come find you. I know keeping your cool is easier said than done. For more on this, check out the "Mom's Time-Out" section (page 111-114) of When You're About To Go Off The Deep End, Don't Take Your Kids With You.

5. Use Consequences That Relate to Their Behaviour - Punishment teaches our kids to feel bad, but rarely teaches them how to "do good". If you are encountering the same misbehaviours over and over again, your child is clearly not learning from their mistakes. To facilitate learning, make certain any consequences used are directly related to the misbehaviour. For example, when your child is rough with the computer, computer time is over when your child is splashing water out of the tub, bath time is over; or when your child is goofing off with their food, dinner is over. Again, do these quickly, but kindly.

6. Thank and Appreciate Your Child for What They Do - Children want to please and they want to know that their contributions make a difference. Remember to tell them so--and often.

Learning how to motivate our children to want to be well-behaved takes time and practice. Yet, taking the time now to learn these tools can save you years of heartache and frustration. Keep reading, keep practising, and keep empowering that three-year-old of yours: then watch their behaviour change for the better!

Kelly Nault, MA author of When You’'re About To Go Off The Deep End, Don’t Take Your Kids With You inspires moms to put themselves first— for the sake of their children. She shares time-tested tools that motivate children to want to be well behaved, responsible and happy! Sign up for her free online parenting course here.

© 2005 UltimateParent.com - All rights reserved.

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Posted in: Positive Parenting,Toddler Taming

The Importance of Play in a Child's Life

It’s true that education is like a building block for a child’s future. All parents dream for a better career for their child’s life. Everybody wants their child to be doctor, engineer and wants to see them in high posts. In this cut throat competition children get pressurize with their activities to the extent that they don’t get spare time for their own entertainment. Teachers also keep the child busy during the holidays by giving them assignments and homework. Earlier children used to play with their siblings. So, the children easily got a play environment at the home. However, now the time spent by children in playing was very less as compared to the past two decades. Parents should understand that play is an important activity and they should not deprive their child from this opportunity.

Group games allow children to learn the values of team spirit. It also teaches them to cooperate with other members of the team and develop self discipline. This also enables them to face negative situation in life and make them strong when they get defeated. Many studies have proved that children playing games which have lots of violence are likely to be more short tempered and aggressive.

It is the duty of the parents to find out whether the child knows the difference between fantasy and reality. When this problem is not uprooted in the initial stages then it can take very ugly turn in child’s life and they will start presuming that real life is also like the games which they play. It will have a negative impact on children mind because inappropriate games will impart wrong set of values in them. Through play children develop essential life skills; they also learn how to interact with their peers and adults. It is through play that children develop essential life skills; they learn how to interact with their peers and with adults. There are certain benefits that child get after playing. These benefits are given below:

1.  Reduces fear, anxiety, stress, irritability
2. Creates joy, intimacy, self-esteem and mastery not based on other's loss of esteem
3. Improves emotional flexibility and openness
4. Increases calmness, resilience and adaptability and ability to deal with surprise and change
5. Decreases tactile defensiveness
6. Healing process for hurts
7. Enhances feelings of acceptance of difference
8. Increases empathy, compassion, and sharing
9. Creates options and choices
10. Models relationships based on inclusion rather than exclusion
11. Alternative to aggressor-victim model of relationships
12. Decreases revenge and need for self defense
13. Improves touch and nonverbal socialization skills
14. Increases attention and attachment capacities
15. Positive emotions increase the efficiency of immune, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems
16.  Decreases stress, fatigue, injury, and depression
17. Integrates sensor motor, kinesthetic and emotional responses 

In conclusion every child should be allowed to play as they learn so many skills from playing, and from defeating. Play is essential for every child’s development as it make them well balanced grown up and prepare with all the essential life skills needed.

Article provided by: Harry Yadav

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Posted in: Positive Parenting,Toddler Taming

Art and Craft Activities For You and Your Toddler

With a week of set in rain hitting most of South East Queensland, some indoor activities are needed to amuse the kids, especially the little ones who are a bit harder to get to sit still long enough for read a book or loose themselves in independent play.

Art and Crafts with toddlers is a lot of fun - let your toddler try and work on her/his project her/him self, even if it means you have to clean up a big mess afterwards. Glue in a big pile with a piece of paper in it - that is craft for your toddler!


Here are some fun art and Craft activities for your Toddler.


Post Cards Hand Made

You need: Thick piece of paper. Paint or markers.

Have your toddler paint or draw on a thicker piece of paper. If she is not using scissors yet help her cut it out in a fun shape, the size of a postcard. When she is done turn the painted card around and write grandma, dad, a friend or somebody else a cute message. Guaranteed success for grandparents!

Sponge Art

You need: Kitchen sponge, scissor, paint and a piece of paper.

Cut a new kitchen sponge in to a shape you like. Dip it in her favorite color and have her stamp it on a paper. One idea is to cut the sponge in half and dip it in a color, stamp it on paper this is your first part of your house. Make a triangle out of the other half and stamp the roof. Cut out a small rectangular for the windows.

Pasta Necklace

You need: Noodles with holes in them, paint that will work on the pasta for example tempera paint, string.

Let your toddler paint the pasta in any colors she/he wants. Mix different kind of pasta wheels, long ones, short ones... When the pasta is dry start putting them on the string. Help her/him tie it and there you have a beautiful necklace.

Shaving Cream Art

You need: Shaving Cream.

Instead of using regular color finger paint, we use shaving cream. From own experience my son prefer that instead of regular finger painting. Spray some shaving cream on the table top and let her/him draw pictures in it. If you would like to add some color to it, add a few drops of food coloring. Let her/him make a mess it is not too hard to clean up. To avoid skin irritation rinse her hands off afterwards.

Enjoy and have a lot of fun. Would you like to know how you could get 365 more Art and Craft Activities? If you want the best for your toddler check out Anna's website.

Article by Anna L
Anna L is a successful freelance writer and the owner of www.helpmeandmyfamily.com, a site for awesome parents that wants to be even better.

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Posted in: Creative Play,Toddler Taming

Toddler Art Activities: A Fun Way of Learning and Bonding

The art and craft activities are a great way of expressing one's personality and helps in enhancing and channelizing creativity. The same holds true for the toddlers too and the other aspect of these toddler art activities is that the toddler, apart from being creative, also gets an opportunity to enhance the motor skills. It is a known fact that children especially the toddlers like colors and are always enthusiastic about opportunities to get their hands to some. Toddlers tend to like the bright colors as they are visually appealing. Toddler art activities are not just about painting and drawing but there is more to it than just that, crafts, collages, impressions are also considered to be great art and fun activities for kids.

It is important that you take an active part in these activities with your kid not just for fun but also to ensure that the kid does not put unwanted things in mouth and is safe. Toddlers in the age group of 18-24 months have a tendency to put anything and everything they can find in their mouth and if left unsupervised they can put something in mouth which can choke them or hurt them in some manner.

The toddler art activities are an ideal way to strengthen the bond you share with your child and helps in building the confidence, self esteem and personality of your child. The art activities you take for your child should be planned according to their age. An 18 or 24 month old child does not have the desired motor skills or hand-eye co-ordination to fill color in shapes or drawings hence it is advisable that you give them a plain sheet of paper to just put the colors to their liking. Give your toddler safe or natural colors like the food colors so that even if he or she licks the fingers it would not cause any harm.

If your toddler is in the age group of 24-36 months, you can give them water colors and paint brushes to draw or paint anything they like on plain sheets of papers and gradually ask them to fill in certain colors in the drawings like shapes of objects, animals etc. Collecting random things and letting them make a collage of those items is also a great way to keep a child engaged in constructive activities.

Many parents put a sheet of paper on a table and crayons for the toddlers to play around with, this is certainly a great idea as the kid does not have to wait for an older family member to hand out these things to them and they can do whatever they feel like at any point in time. It is also advisable that on pleasant days you take the kids out to beach or places where they can find sand or mud and let them make things using empty plastic mugs, cups or other objects, this is also a great way to let them unwind and be at their creative best.

Another great way of doing toddler art activities, especially if there are more than two toddlers at home or around, is by pasting a big chart or drawing sheet to a wall or on a table and let all the toddlers paint the sheet with the colors of their choice in unison. This will help in developing the social and sharing skills of the toddler.

Article by Anthony M Langley
Come and visit  www.all-about-toddlers.com  for all you need to know on raising and parenting toddlers Also see great information on toddler art activities.

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Posted in: Creative Play,Toddler Taming

How to Properly Discipline a Toddler Hitting Others

You can have the child that everyone enjoys and wants to be around. Plus, you will not ever have to hear from another parent how your toddler hitting, kicking, biting, or pushing other children, has spoiled another afternoon. No more embarrassing reports of misbehavior from daycare professionals or preschool advisors. You can go to the grocery store with a happy, easy going, cooperative child and with no worries of a temper tantrum or emotional outburst of any kind. You can leave all those stresses behind you very easily. This is all very possible, even though it may not seem that way to you right now.

If your child has problems managing their behavior or controlling their temper, then you will need to know that it is not your fault and you need to act fast. The problem will not go away, it will grow with them and progressively get worse. The longer you wait, the greater the odds will build against your favor. You can turn this around and help your child change their behavior and perspective for the better.

Some children act out by hitting other kids as a means of getting attention. Others find it as a way of getting what they want and this can become habit forming and weave its way into a part of the child's development. For any toddler, hitting is a completely natural act. They are always banging on things when playing with toys and it is an instinctive movement.

However, as they begin to learn more verbal skills in order to communicate their needs and wants in a more creative, comprehensive and productive manner, the aggressive behavior usually stops. The methods used by those who lack these communicative skills are usually demonstrated by the more angry toddler, frustrated by this lack of ability to adequately express themselves they resort to physical force.

To the toddler, hitting, pushing, and shoving, is just a way of showing, (though is the wrong way) that they are also capable and able. Children are competitive by nature. The developmental stage from toddler hitting, to toddler talking things through is different for every child and happens in various ways and times.

You can actually play a role in speeding up this process and without any thing unnatural, either. You can develop a better relationship with your child and lock that bond on tightly, so that you will be their primary influence in the future of their life. You can teach them better ways to communicate and how better to solve their conflicts with positive outcomes through better behavior. You can also provide a more positive perspective of the way they see the parent-child relationship. You will gain respect in the eyes of your children, and be viewed as the leader that provides solutions.

All children misbehave and need discipline but for a toddler hitting other kids, the discipline must be specific and firm. Acts of physical aggression and outburst resulting in violence must be dealt with immediate firmness and action. It should be handled always by removing the aggressor from everything and everyone. No positive attention should be given to them in regards to their outburst. In fact, it must be discussed with them, immediately after they have completely cooled down. Then, with serious concern, explain to them that any toddler hitting another person is always seen as bad, and that other people associate that behavior with immature little brats. And any toddler hitting, pushing, shoving or even intimidating anyone, in any way, is absolutely unacceptable behavior.

Make the discipline stern and yet, while communicating this try to convey some understanding of what they are going through. Share with them an instance of when you went through the difficulty of controlling your anger and frustrations. Provide them with another outlet to express themselves and let them know you understand how hard it might be for them. Share with them, anytime you think they are really trying or making progress and tell them your proud of them.

As I am sure that many of you have no doubt tried this method and maybe have yet to see any result. Just continue trying what you are doing that you think is working and ditch what you are certain is not helping. One thing that I suggest for any parent who wants to stop toddler hitting, biting, kicking, whining, pushing, and misbehavior on all levels, or to re-establish love and a connection, and start having more fun again as a parent, just get the program,' Turning Misbehavior into Great Behaviour 20 days to a New Child' and get to it. It is truly remarkable how quickly and effectively it works. The response and feedback it is getting is excellent and gaining in popularity increasing fast. Because it works!

Article by Julian Anthony
Parenting answers and advice from medical experts and professionals who understand how tough it really is. You can learn simple parenting techniques that transform even the most difficult children into fun, well behaved kids!

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Toddler and New Baby Tips - 7 Ways to Beat Sibling Rivalry

Toddlerhood is a time of such intense change for any child. A new brother or sister is without a doubt the most challenging event for any toddler because children of this age are naturally self-centred.

Here are 7 ideas to help you help your tot adapt to their new role as older sibling.

You can minimise - but not eliminate - jealousy. Don't try to persuade your child (or yourself) that you can wipe out all feelings of resentment. Getting used to the new arrival is a natural part of learning to share and co-operate - in short, growing up.

Before the birth introduce the idea of the baby - subtly. There is a limit to how much - if anything - your child will understand about the changes ahead. Bring the topic up in conversation, but observe any apparent lack of interest and back off if necessary.

New baby stories can be very helpful in bringing up potential worries that may be bothering your toddler. They also suggest problems that could occur, such as the baby crying at night.

Think about how you want the first meeting between the new siblings to go. If you are having the baby in hospital, who do you want to be there? When should it happen? Be flexible - you may be too exhausted/hormonal to see your toddler on the day of the birth. There is nothing wrong with waiting until the next day if it helps you gather your emotional strength.

In the early days after the birth, inviting friends with other toddlers over can make life easier. Your child's playmates will have a limited interest in newborns. However little it might appear that the toddlers are interacting, at least it takes your eldest out of the emotional parent-toddler-newborn triangle.

When you can manage it take the kids out. Toddler and baby group, friends' houses, soft play areas, the park: getting away from your living room will lift your spirits when the children get demanding. The exercise will reduce your stress levels and seeing other people will take you out of yourself.

You are likely to lose your temper. Who wouldn't, faced with the vastly different needs of your 2 youngsters and being sleep deprived? Accept this fact, and when you shout at your toddler, do this: stop, apologise, give her a cuddle, praise and distract her. The first few months of life with your toddler and new baby can be tough, but young children are enormously adaptable and the lifelong rewards and companionship of having a sibling far outweigh these early difficulties. 

Article by Harriet Morris
If you found these tips useful, visit http://www.toddler-ideas.com/toddler-and-new-baby.html for more proven strategies for dealing with sibling rivalry. Harriet Morris edits www.toddler-ideas.com which is full of resources and inspiration for parenting young children.

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Posted in: Baby Care,Toddler Taming

How to Potty Train Boys

There is very little difference between potty training for boys or for girl. Boys sometimes take longer to understand what's going on than girls do but the younger you start potty training your child the less this is evident. It's often easier to potty train younger boys sitting down rather than standing up because boys aged two and under often find it difficult to balance, aim and pee at the same time. Once your son is a little older and finds it easier to stand and pee then you may want to invent some aiming games. Inventing a game together is really a lot of fun and can often include a vessel of some sort to aim at. You'll not have to do this for long but you may want to do it once a week for fun and continued practice.

How to potty train boys

At the start of toilet training boys make sure he's sent or taken to the bathroom frequently because he'll wait till the very last minute before he asks to use the potty or toilet himself. He'll need to rush to the bathroom in desperation because his bladder is so full he won't be able to hold onto his pee until he can reach it.

At this early stage of toilet training for boys don't ask them if they need to use the bathroom because they'll nearly always answer in the negative. It's much better to tell him that it's time to use the bathroom, he won't think ahead and realise he needs to "go potty" thinking ahead is an adult's responsibility.

When you first start to potty train boys you'll need to be very vigilant. You have to notice quite a lot of things, when he last used the bathroom, what he's doing and how much he's had to drink. The thing that's easier when toilet training a boy rather than a girl is that boys can pee easily against a tree or in another quiet place.

Remember you're trying to educate him to be able recognize when he needs to use the bathroom. You're also wanting to change a habit and education him not to do something that he's have been doing since he was born. For the last year 15-36 months your child has gone to the bathroom in his diaper and this was OK.

Your goal now is to break this habit and instigate a new one of using a potty or toilet instead. Toilet training boys need not be difficult believe in yourself and your child and plan for success.

Article by Maureen Lawrence.
Maureen, aka, the English Nanny, Parenting and Potty Training Expert has over 30 years of experience of potty training boys and girls.

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Stop Toddler Separation Anxiety by Playing Fun Games

Toddler separation anxiety will typically show itself between the ages of 2 and 3, but could be as early as 18 months and continue into the 4th and 5th year of life. If you have every experienced your toddler crying as soon as you leave the room or had them throw themselves down in front of the door as you prepare to leave, then you know how difficult dealing with toddler separation anxiety can be.

For toddlers on the young side of the equation, the issue may work itself out with time. Part of the struggle for them is that they do not understand that you are coming back. There is a sense of fear that is overpowering for them.

Too often, the advice is to not give in to the tantrum and they will just get over it. Honestly, if you really think about it, do you get over your own fears by just dealing with it over and over again? Sometimes it works, but typically it is a rather painful way of doing it.

So, I recommend that parents play games that allow for the fear level to remain low while the toddler learns that separation is not permanent. This is a great deal less stressful for all involved and can be quite fun. Imagine that - a fun way of dealing with toddler separation anxiety!

Here are a few games you can play:

Peek-A-Boo
Believe it, or not, the game has a reason! Let your children learn that when you are out of sight, you are still there or that you come back quickly. So, play peek-a-boo with them.

Hide The Toy
Take a toy that the child enjoys (though, not their favorite toy, as that will add to the anxiety) and hide it in a room adjacent to the one you and your child are in. Then, have your child look for the toy. Let them search for the toy (and find it) learning that an object that cannot be seen can still be near.

Hide and Seek
Direct the child to hide and then you hunt them down and find them. This is exciting for them and they can never keep quiet. Believe it or not it helps!

Hello / Good-Bye
Have your child dress up like they are going to work (your work or whatever they want to pretend to be). Have them get all ready for work and then walk out the front door (if it is safe to do so). Have everyone say goodbye and wish everyone a good day. Give hugs and kisses, as you do in the morning when you leave for work.

Have them walk outside and then come back in. When they enter, ensure that you greet them as if they have been gone all day! They get so excited with this one - 'Hi, Mom, I am home!' It is really fun when you add in a backpack or some other bag to carry.

Keep It Low Key
The idea is to give them low-risk activities that increase their awareness of separation and the fact that it is temporary. Separation anxiety can be intense, so be patient and work on it with encouragement and love.

Article by Jake Long
Are you at a loss of what else to do for your child? I do understand. I found that it helps when I find other parents that are dealing with the same thing. You can find a number of positive, loving, and supportive parenting methods that help with anxiety, yelling, hitting, kicking, whining, and tantrums at ParentingAdviceThatWorks.info Source

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

7 Sure-Fire Tips For Potty Training Toddlers

There seems to be a widely held impression, past down from generation to generation, that potty training toddlers is arduous.

Follow this practical plan and you will be able to go from all those nappies to dry in days. But only if you are prepared not to be side-tracked by other distractions during this period and able to give your focus to toilet training.


1. Evaluating Your Child's Readiness

Does your toddler have the required verbal understanding? This includes being able to understand and carry out simple instructions.

Does your toddler show signs of wanting to do more things for themselves such as pulling up their own pants?

Is your child's bladder and bowel control adequately developed? For instance, can he or she go for two or three hours before wetting their diaper?

You really must not go on to item 2 until you are confident your toddler can handle being toilet trained.

2. Let's Go Shopping

You want to make this trip to the shops as much fun as possible for your toddler. So what's on that shopping list?

You should get:

• An anatomically correct doll (a boy doll if you have a son, a girl doll if you have a daughter);
• Potties (yes it's best to have two or three around the home so there is always one close at hand when it's wanted);
• Underpants, preferably vibrantly colored. It's even better if there's a picture of one of their favorite cartoon characters on them. Nappy or training underpants can be a practical solution for any trips out but make sure you treat them as real pants not nappies;
• a wall chart and stickers.
• Remember to let your toddler have a say in the purchase choice.

3. Toilet Train The Doll

Silly as it may seem, you potty train the doll. The doll is a great teaching tool, it should not be seen as a toy. You will be using the doll to model correct behavior.

4. Celebrate The Doll's Success

Each time the doll correctly uses the potty it is praised and a sticker is placed on the wall chart that records the doll's progress. And when the doll has been potty trained it gets a party. You want your toddler to realize that being potty trained is a happy, fun experience.

5. It's Farewell to Diapers

Put your toddler in pants. There's no retreating back to nappies even if there are two or three accidents along the way.

6. Give Your Toddler Plenty Of Fluids

The more your toddler drinks the more they will need to urinate. So they should get plenty of practice in using a potty.

7. Ask Your Toddler If They Need the Potty

If they say no that's fine. With all those drinks they'll soon need to go. Quiz them again a little later.

If they have a little accident you must not let your child see you are angry or disappointed. Just tell them they'll do better next time. Take them to the potty and have them sit on it for two or three minutes. Give them fresh pants to put on. At short intervals take them back to the potty for a total of ten times. This will help to build muscle memory. Very soon they will urinate in the potty.

A little food for thought. It is not just what you say, it's how you say it. This is certainly true when it comes to teaching a toddler new skills.

Article by Penny Crane
Find out how you can potty train even the most strong willed child in days. Discover the right tone of voice and words to use when toilet training your toddler. Learn techniques that will accelerate your child's learning and potty training. Source

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How have you potty trained your toddler? Share your experience with other Mums right here!

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Easy No Cook Toddler Food

Have you noticed all of the special toddler food appearing in the baby food section of the grocery store? Are all those processed foods really good for your toddler? Maybe they're not the best for toddlers, but they are one thing - convenient. More importantly, toddlers usually like them.

The truth is, those foods are not good for your toddler, and it's not good to give your toddler a taste for processed junk. But you're busy and you need your little one to actually eat what you prepare. Here are some great ideas for easy toddler food:

Tiny Trays
Somehow things are always more exciting when they come in an ice-cube tray. Get a couple of ice-cube trays and reserve them for your tot. Cube some cheese, add some sausage chunks or deli sliced meats, and slice some vegetables and fruits and add them to the tray. Your child will love to have his or her own personal tray of food. Add a nut butter or another dip to one or two of the cubes. Little kids really like to dip foods. These trays are great for snack time. You can quickly put a couple of trays together in the morning, cover, and pull them out of the fridge when you're ready for them later in the day.

Fruit and Cream
Kids love fruit. And kids love cream. Get a high quality heavy cream (not ultra-pasteurized, which has been heated beyond all recognition). Pour over sliced fruit and serve. The cream helps your child's body absorb the nutrients from the fruit. Freeze the fruit first (berries work really well) and pour a little cream on for an instant "ice cream" - your tot will love seeing the cream freeze over the fruit in his bowl!

Trail Mix
Once your tot is able to handle nuts, trail mix becomes a great toddler food. You can easily buy a few different kinds of nuts and a dried fruit like raisins and mix them together to create your own healthy, homemade trail mix. Scoop out a little and serve to your toddler for a quick and easy snack.

Salmon or Sardine Dip
Believe it or not, most kids really like canned salmon and sardines. This easy dip is a real hit. Soften around four ounces of cream cheese. Take one can of sardines or one half a can of salmon and place it in a bowl. Use a fork to mash together the cream cheese and fish until well mixed. If your tot likes spicy foods, you can add a teaspoon of prepared horseradish for some "zip." Serve with vegetable sticks or vegetable shapes (cut them with a small cookie cutter). Steam the veggies for a very young toddler.

Avocado Slices
A classic favorite of babies and young children. Just slice the avocado and serve for a super easy food with lots of good fat.

It doesn't have to be hard to feed your toddler well. Forget about relying on unhealthy processed toddler food... and forget about being chained to the kitchen. You can make tasty, healthy foods at home... with just a few minutes of your time.

Article by Kristen Burgess
By the way, do you want to get more practical baby care information that will give you keys to a smarter, happier baby while building a strong bond with your little one? If so, download my free guide: How to Have a Smarter, Happier Baby. You'll get my guide and information packed with helpful tips on baby care and on managing life as a mom (and loving it!)Source

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Posted in: Cooking For Kids,Toddler Taming

Imaginary Friends - Ordinary Or Trouble?

You watch as little three year-old Tyler climbs into his chair and then slides over, calling to Ogh to climb up too. Ogh who? Ogh, the Monkey. Watch out mommy, you almost stepped on his tail!

At the age of three, toddlers begin to join in fantasy playing. They may personify objects or create imaginary friends. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this is a positive sign. I agree. Fantasy play and imaginary friends are part of a toddler's emotional development. They may even continue using their imagination even after this developmental stage.

Your child is not upset, nor are they lonely. Creating an imaginary friend is actually a very creative process. Some children create an imaginary friend, some personify objects, and some children don't. Your child talking to the imagined friend or to the moon may occur for long periods of time, or they may change their friend every day. Even the species of the imaginary friend may differ. For your toddler, reality becomes fantasy which becomes reality, and so forth. So threatening your child that you will feed him to the dog...may be believed at this age period.

Imaginary friends allow toddlers to explore and connect to emotions. Your child will develop activities, conversations, behaviors, and emotions for themselves by reacting to the personalities of their friend. Thus, don't make fun of your toddler. If your child invites you, join in the fantasy. Plant a few ideas and see how your child plays out the imaginative scene. A mother I know showed her toddler pictures of the Safari, and the next day her daughter's new friend was Croca, the crocodile.

At this age, your toddler is learning independence. With your toddler's personality developing, take time to talk and listen to your three year-old toddler while you buckle him and Ogh into the car seat.

Article by Amanda Myrkalo
As a young woman learning about motherhood, my articles stem from research, observation, and personal experience. I write for a variety of blog sites based on pregnancy, infants, and toddlers. I find my baby products at BabyAge.com. Visit the website at http://www.babyage.com to access some amazing baby products!

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Getting Your Toddler to Sleep in Their Own Bed

All day long our busy little toddler amuses us, delights us, and even baffles us with their naïve semantics. The world through the mind of a toddler is a great place to be and it seems like for them the fun never ends....that is except at bedtime. As much as we love our toddlers bedtime for many of us signifies a time where we can either wind down or complete some last minute chores. However for toddlers it can mean war! The battle to stay up and play is not one they take likely and for us mommies the battle can be brutal!

Who taught them such scare tactics?! Like screaming uncontrollably until you come running to retrieve them, surely the neighbors will cry abuse...or the manipulative drink of water/bathroom technique, very clever my little Einstein. Do we really stand a chance against such a worthy opponent? Despair not fellow mommies, those cute little faces might be quite a distraction, but stand fast help is on the way!

Here is what one mommy from Chicago, USA had to say when questioned on how to get her toddler to sleep. She stated that she did not have a problem with her toddler crying but that her little girl just refused to stay in her bed. She recalled the following incident:

Susan discussed how she carefully planned her daughter Samantha's first night in her own bed. They had discussed it and made a big deal of it all day. She prepared the room carefully with Samantha, by putting her favorite cartoon sheets on the bed and putting two night lights in place. Samantha and her favorite doll peaches, even got a new pair of pajamas for the occasion. Samantha seemed very excited and agreed with mommy that she would sleep in her bed until morning like a big girl. That night Susan read Samantha and Peaches a story, tucked them both in to bed and kissed them goodnight. She was pleasantly surprised, but proud at what a big girl Samantha seemed to be. She kissed her mommy back and said "good night mommy" Samantha said enthusiastically (almost as if she couldn't wait for her mommy to leave). "Goodnight baby, mommy will see you in the morning" Susan replied. She walked room with her chest stuck out, what a wonderful little girl she was raising! Seconds later her Mommy radar went off. She tiptoed quietly back to Samantha's bedroom and saw only her little bottom sticking up, as her head was in the toy box. When she called Samantha's name, she looked up, smiled, and replied innocently "Good morning Mommy!"

Unfortunately it was months before she could actually get her to stay in her bed and go to sleep, but hey the thought was nice while it lasted.

Here are some important tips when trying to get your toddler to sleep in their own bed.

1. Discuss regularly with your child that big/boys and girls sleep in their own bed. Although they may not completely understand at first, believe me our little innocent bystanders are quicker to catch on then we think.

2. Make the room a comfortable, yet fun place for your child to sleep. Allow him/her to help choose bedding(maybe their favorite cartoon character)also purchase a nightlight or two, this way they experience the calmness of darkness needed to sleep, but will not be overwhelmed by it at the same time.

3. Provide a small plastic container of water by the bedside (juice may increase chances of cavities) for the mommy I'm thirsty trick-we're one step ahead of you bud!

4. Be sure to make a big deal of potty time before bed and discuss that mommy is making sure you use the potty now so you wont need to go during bedtime. If your child does need to go, do not make a big deal take him/her to the potty and immediately back to be. You will soon figure out when the need to go to the bathroom is simply a tactic.

5. Make sure your child's room is childproof in case your private eye does venture out of the bed for some midnight investigation work he needs to catch up on. So much to do so little time! (a monitor is always a good idea as well.)

6. Be consistent. Each time your little adventurer gets out of bed you should put them right back in. It is best to save the cuddling for another time. Be firm as well as brief with each encounter. Be careful! these little ones are very good at what they do. Entering into too much conversation could be just the in they need to access your bedroom and before you know it you've had another sleepless night. Hold on! Turn a blind eye to those little tears, contrary to what they want us to believe no child has ever been harmed because the were not allowed to sleep with mommy and daddy. Don't give in.

Note: Be sure to carefully assess your child before putting them to bed. Rule out illness, hunger, thirst and potty. Once ruling these things out and making sure child is safe, do not be distressed by your crying toddler. Remember it is considered healthy for a child to learn how to be alone and to discover that you do not always need to be there for him/her to be safe. Learning to be alone will build traits of inner security and self-confidence. Hang in there learning is a gradual process!

Article by Yvonne Kimmons
Written by Yvonne Kimmons, co-owner of LittleHandsBoutique.com. Your Upscale Resale for Little Ladies and Gents! For more fun articles and advice on toddler issues please visit the Toddler Times section of our website and view our blog. Source

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Posted in: Sleep Secrets,Toddler Taming

How to Cope With Your Toddler and Your New Baby

When we have one child we have all the time in the world to get to know them, understand their needs, meet their needs and watch them grow. Every new phase of development is new and exciting and especially when they are the first grandchild they receive a lot of adult time and attention. However when the second child comes along there are many changes to your routine and your family and it can feel very overwhelming. When you understand how your toddler may feel and the changes in your own parenting you will feel more confident in handling two children in your life.


Firstborns naturally receive a lot of attention.
With all this attention and sole focus we tend to jump when the baby cries and meet their needs immediately, keep them clean and tidy, teach them new things to be done the right way and encourage the same from them. Most first born toddlers like clean hands, everything put in its right place, their needs met immediately and know how mum and dad like the routine done as per the rules! (when they have a routine).

Second Baby tends to be more flexible.
Then we have the second baby and everything changes. Suddenly we don't have the time, energy or inclination for everything to be perfect and we certainly do not feel like doing it immediately! As parents we are faced with looking after and coordinating two children now and something has to give. We have to prioritize and naturally become a little more flexible and get to what needs to be done when we have time. When prioritizing we tend to meet the needs of the noisiest one first and as a consequence the second child tends to learn to be flexible. They often need to wait for a feed, hear mums voice and know she will come eventually, just like twins who learn very quickly mum will come soon.

Because we have a toddler and a baby, the baby is often carted around and needs to learn to sleep in lots of different places because the toddler has established a routine and activities. Mum and dad want the toddler to maintain their routine and weekly activities so they have a sense of normality to their life now that the new baby has come along. This helps to encourage flexible sleeping for the new baby and most parents' report that the second baby is generally more flexible in nature. The reason the second baby is more flexible is that mum and dad have become more flexible and less anxious about everything and so baby responds accordingly.

It is sensible at this point to remember that your toddler has lived through a couple of years of strict routines, everything done when they wanted it, rules adhered to and lots of attention. Now that the new baby has come along mum and dad may have relaxed the rules and become more flexible because there is more to do, but, your toddler is expecting everything to remain the same. They don't appreciate or understand that the rules may have changed because you are busier and expect their needs to be met immediately as they were before. This is why some toddlers can have trouble adjusting to the new baby and demand more attention.

Keep with the toddlers routine.
It is important to respect your toddler and keep routines for eating and sleeping and playing on time. Your toddler still needs their needs met as much as the new baby. However the new baby will be more flexible than the toddler in routine and nature. The toddler at this stage will have set times for sleeping, eating and playing and the baby will be having various awake and asleep times not fixed to the clock. Therefore you can avoid trouble by making sure the toddlers routine is kept to first.

Especially in the hectic afternoon "arsenic hour" the new baby will want to have frequent feeds and shorter sleeps and can fit into the toddlers preparation for sleep routine. I suggest that once the toddler is in bed, offer the baby one last calm uptime, with a relaxed feed before going to bed for the night.

It is acceptable to teach toddlers cooperation and patience at this stage. I find parents cope better when they understand that the toddler stage is all about "me" and the toddler thinks along the principle of "what's in it for me?" If we can word all requests directed at the toddler ending with a reward (of time, an outing or a favourite activity) we are more likely to gain cooperation. As the toddler grows older positive encouragement alone will ensure continued cooperation.

Learning to live and play together.
Even if the toddler appears to love the toddler, they can nearly love them to death! As parents we need to do a lot of modelling of how to touch the baby, where to kiss, washing hands, gentle play and when it's ok to go into the baby's room and look at them (poke them). Your toddler doesn't understand consequences or their own strength and will feel really out of place if all contact with the baby is discouraged or frowned upon. Remember your toddler has a really small concentration span so offer some cuddles and one-on-one special time with the baby and after a few minutes they will be off doing something else. Encourage reading time when you are stuck on the lounge feeding the baby and agree to spend some quality time with the toddler as soon as the baby is having some floor play or back in bed.

Also consider the toddler from the baby's point of view. My favourite description of my own toddler's was "hairy monsters". They were always getting in close to baby's face to say "hello!" and their hair was hanging everywhere! If we are always in baby's face the toddler will want to do the same.

I am also seeing a lot of baby's that are missing out on essential floor play because mum and dad are trying to protect them from the toddler. Using a bouncer, hip, playpen, jolly jumper, walker or highchair prevents floor play and tummy time and inhibits the physical and mental development of your baby. It is better to teach the toddler how to play and supervise the floor play initially than prevent it all together.

I found it helpful to make a lunchbox up of healthy snacks and a drink in a non-spill drink bottle available for the toddler, because it was always when I sat down to feed the baby that the siblings would want something to eat or drink.

Tip: Have no guilt. The gift you have given your toddler in a sibling to cherish forever far outweighs the negatives of sharing you the parents. How wonderful that the toddler can learn cooperation, compromise, sharing and about being a family. Remember that your toddler had you to themselves for a few years and the new baby will never have you to themselves.

Article by Natalie Ebrill.
I understand you want to find a gentle solution to your baby's sleeping problem that allows you to respond to your baby and start it today. But you've tried so many other strategies and read all of the books and you don't know who or what to believe anymore. You just want feel confident about your baby's routine and reduce the crying more than anything else, and that's ok! I want to give you your life back! Download your Sleep Package and start today! Source. Visit Baby Sleep Consultant 0-5 years, mother of three, Natalie Ebrill's website, http://www.sleepandsettle.com.au

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Toddler Tantrum Advice - You Don't Have to Suffer the Terrible Twos!

Possibly the best toddler tantrum advice I ever got was to stop taking advice from all and sundry, and listen to my child. I know that toddler tantrums can be hard to deal with, it's easy to get frustrated and angry yourself. But when you stop to think about what your child is trying to express with their infant tantrums you can't help being a lot more sympathetic.

The world is a very frustrating place for the two year old. They still don't have a lot of language to convey their feelings, but they have to deal with new developments everyday.

Your typical two year old toddler is just learning about the differences between you and them. As a separate being they can do lots of things without you, including saying "No!", yet they are still so reliant on you in so many ways.

To be a successful parent we need to steer them safely through this stage, helping them become more independent and confident in their own abilities. Lessons learned in dealing with their emotions now will stand them in good stead for the future.

So, rather than physical discipline to stop tantrums, we need to use positive reinforcement for "good behaviour", and offer emotional support through the inevitable storms. Of course, preventing the tantrum from happening is best both for the child and our nerves!

Watch and learn to read the signs that tell you when a strop is on the way. Tiredness, stress, boredom and over restraint are common causes of a tantrum exploding. Once you have figured out the triggers that set your little person off, you will know the best way to prevent a tantrum starting, or at least be prepared when it does.

Sometimes simple distraction will work, more often not. Once a tantrum is in full flow you just have to wait it out really, trying your best to pretend it isn't happening. While we want them to know that we are there when they are ready for comfort, we don't want to reward the tantrum by paying it too much attention.

For some children just walking away and leaving them to it for a while is good. Of course that can't be used in every situation, much as you might want to pretend that child writhing around on the grocery store floor isn't yours!

By taking away the drama from the situation you defuse the emotions, and hopefully you won't need toddler tantrum advice for very long. But for toddlers who hit & bite, or a toddler who's already learnt to manipulate you using his tantrums you might have to be more proactive.

Article by Lydia Anne Morgan
If you are interested in more of my toddler tantrum advice, especially on handling more severe toddlers behaviour problems check Parenting Problems out.

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

The Right Time to Use a Toddler Mattress

Toddler and cot mattresses are generally the same size. Such a purchase is a very important one that parents will make for their newborns or toddlers because they spend so much of their time asleep.

A baby will make the transition between their first and third birthday from sleeping in a cot to sleeping in a toddlers bed. If the mattress that you used in the cot has been well taken care of you will also be able to use it on the toddler's bed. But one thing that you will need to be aware of is that a child's level of comfort may change as they grow older. Therefore when you buy a babies mattress ensure that you buy a convertible mattress, which is a mattress that is soft on one side and slightly firmer on the other.

You should use your toddler mattress on a toddler bed as this will make the transition easier. The aim is to make the bed feel comfortable and familiar to the child. You should also make sure that the new bed is placed in the same place that the cot used to be in so that the child will not feel as if a change has been made.

You will know that your child is ready to transition psychologically simply by observing the child. But you can assist in the process by reinforcing the fact that they are getting older and ready to sleep in beds that are made for big children. The majority of children are encouraged by this type of reinforcement.

If your child is having trouble sleeping at night, you may want to put the transition on hold. If you make the move and the child gets out of bed and wonders around the house, or cries all the time when put into the bed you may have to put the child back into the cot.

There is no right time to move your child into a toddler bed, because all children will develop differently. Research has shown that children who are first born appear to take longer to adapt to moving into a different bed. But younger siblings do not have the same problem because they are often in a rush to do things that the older sibling is doing. Therefore you should be patient with your children and, and they will give you the signs that they are ready to change.

Mattresses for toddlers will provide your child with a good surface to sleep on for a number of years. If you decide to, you can use the same mattress for the child from birth until they have outgrown it.

In general you can use a toddler mattress until the child is between the ages of 4 and 6. But this will depend on the weight and the height of the child. You should move your child onto a larger or twin mattress once they have outgrown their toddler mattress.

If you want to get an idea of the kind of mattress to get for your child after a toddler mattress, take a look at this website. http://www.crosbysmattresses.co.uk/

Article by James Patrick Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6598081

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Toddler Tantrums in Public - End the Toddler Tantrums For Good

There is not much worse as a parent than toddler tantrums in public! They draw everyone's attention. You start to think about what everyone is thinking about you as a parent. It can be very defeating and deflating as a parent. But Don't Give Up!

Remember - The Parent Is The Adult
Too often in situations where we, as adults, are facing the embarrassment of our children, we want to take it out on the child. Between you and the child - You Are The Grown-Up! Once you forget that and start reacting with strong emotions, you have lost. Even if you do not "Give In" to the request the child is making - they win the battle when you throw your own tantrum.

Parents Have Tantrums Too
That's right - you heard me. You throw tantrums too. You know, when you yell at your child because they are yelling at you. You are letting your emotions out through anger and a lack of self-control. Isn't that what a tantrum is? A lack of control and a ridiculous display of emotions? You have to start with you. Got it? Good. Let's move on.

Stop The Tantrum In Public Using Substitutional-Distraction
OK - so you have a screamer on your hands. At this point - you missed the best chance to stop the tantrum in the first place. But, hey - the past is the past. Just learn from it in the future. It is easier to stop a tantrum before it starts. Either way, it is here - so now you have to get to work.

Acknowledge Your Child - Be calm. Be the adult. Reflect, in their words, what you are hearing
Redirect Their Attention - work on finding something constructive for them to do (ask them to help you!)
Accept Their Help When They Offer - it isn't easy to accept help. Be the adult! Do hard things.
Hold Them Accountable - If they agreed to help you or you gave directions, make sure they follow through

In The Future - Stop It Before It Begins
The best time to stop a tantrum is before it starts. This takes active parenting. Watch for the signs in your child that indicate a building up of emotions. Often you can overcome this by giving them some positive attention. Give them a task to do and encourage their efforts. It is easier to be aware than it is to put up with the results!

Get Even More Strategies
Article by Jake Long
 Parenting is a non-stop learning process. Learn more ways to Stop Temper Tantrums. You can have a wonderful, loving, kind, honest, and respectful child too. Just TAKE ACTION - Start with my Resources For Temper Tantrums. Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3024549

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Posted in: Toddler Taming

Yep, Toddlers Love to Help With Chores

You've got one or more little ones and you're trying to do chores and watch them at the same time. You'd love to clone yourself but, sorry, technology hasn't progressed quite that far yet. You're growing very weary checking on them every five minutes to make sure they're not unrolling all the toilet paper or burning the house down. You're also aware that it's been two days since you've given the children any quality attention. And children need and crave attention.

So get them involved in what you're doing. Unlike older kids, small children usually love to help. It makes them feel responsible and gives them confidence. They see it as a fun challenge. They also see it as something they can do with Mom, Dad, or the nanny. And, believe it or not, occasionally when kids a few years older see their siblings having so much fun, they may pitch in now and then too.

Of course, your chores may take a little longer and be a bit messier, but you'll know where the children are and they'll be happy. However, don't set up a child for failure. Give them small tasks that are almost impossible to botch. Don't ask children to carry something that may spill. Don't expect them to figure out a job that requires several steps. For example, give him a sponge when you're washing the car and let him sponge the fender for a while. If you're folding clothes fresh out of the dryer, give her a few little shirts to fold or socks to match. If you're preparing dinner, a child can stand on a chair and wash a few potatoes. If you're grocery shopping, hand items to your child in the kiddy cart seat and ask him or her to lay it in the cart. Suddenly the fussing stops and they're waiting for the next item.

An important part of this exercise is liberal praise. Thank the child and praise him or her for being helpful. That's all it takes sometimes to make a kid's day. She thinks she has just been crowned housekeeper of the day. He thinks he just completed the Panama Canal. So next time you're going berserk trying to do chores while refereeing the children every three minutes, try giving them simple tasks both to help you along and keep them occupied. Forget keeping the children occupied with a new toy every five minutes. Try doing chores with them.

Article By Debra Fortosis
Debra Fortosis owns a babysitter and nanny placement agency called Elite Family Care. It is headquartered in the Sarasota/Bradenton region of southwest Florida. You may find her website at http://www.elitefamilycare.com. If you wish to contact her, go to debra@elitefamilycare.com

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Posted in: Positive Parenting,Toddler Taming