Most toddlers love helping around the house. They’re still at the age when they find it fascinating and more interesting than playing with their toys. But it’s important to keep in mind some things when involving them: · doing chores has to be a cooperative and voluntary activity. Never try to bribe or punish a…
Making Mealtimes Relaxing and Enjoyable
Mealtimes can be stressful for some parents. It can be frustrating to spend an hour in the kitchen cooking, only to watch your baby throw the food on the floor or paint the table with it five minutes later. I’ve had some hectic days myself. I can’t solve these problems for you, but here are…
Praise, Acknowledgement, and Inner Motivation
I always strive to improve my teaching practice, especially my interaction with the children I teach. Creating a bond, connecting with them, will ensure that what I teach gets through to them. Giving feedback is one aspect that is truly important when it comes to teaching (or parenting). You probably heard that “good job!” has…
DIY Play Sand for Sensory Trays
It’s Sunday evening, I just came home from climbing and put E. to sleep. So what now? Hm… I finally have some time to prepare some play sand for tomorrow. I wanted to make something brown, to resemble dirt to go well with the forest animals. But I didn’t want to use food colouring. The…
Why I Love Using a Baby Carrier
I’m going to get straight to the reasons why I’m all for baby carrying: The first one is a general one: carrying your baby is a healthy thing everyone should do. Your oxytocin level goes up when you hold your baby close, and this promotes bonding. It also helps mothers recover postpartum. Our little one…
Getting Your Baby Involved in Daily Routines (6 months – 1 year)
Babies are capable of so much more than what we give them credit for! And they want to be involved in your daily routines…so why not let them? I’m brainstorming ways in which E.’s (currently 10 months) independence is cultivated. I’m thinking of small things that she can do, with a little bit of help….