Toddlers are bursting with energy, ready to assert independence and full of creative ideas, but they probably don't know how to express themselves creatively yet. You can help develop your little tyke’s imagination with interactive games that rely on role playing, communication and collaboration. From building blocks and pretend play to dynamic dancing and rhythmic drumming, games that foster your child’s imagination can be a routine part of your day and your child’s life.
Category: Magazine Writing
8 Signs You’re Ready for Children
Does the thought of pitter-pattering little feet running through your house bring a smile to your face? Do you get baby fever whenever you hold a little one? If so, it might be time to have children. There are many factors to consider when deciding if you are ready to raise a happy child in a healthy, safe and loving manner, says Dr. Marina Gafanovich, a New York-based primary care physician. If you are contemplating having a child, these eight signs may be saying that now's the time.
Games for Toddlers and Dads
Toddlers crave attention, and nothing beats one-on-one time with Daddy. Beyond bedtime stories and playful wrestling, dads and toddlers can entertain themselves with active and creative games. Finding activities that interest both Dad and your little one can help to build a bond between a father and son or father and daughter. From messy play and creative crafts to sporty outdoor games, dads and toddlers have many options to have fun any day of the week.
Games That Teach Toddlers About Feelings
Your toddler is bound to be happy one moment and sad the next, even though she may not understand why or recognize the feeling itself. Games that help toddlers recognize feelings in themselves also help them learn about feelings in others, says Diane Doyle, director of the Rollins College Child Development Center in Winter Park, Fla. Learn how to help your little one identify feelings while having a little fun throughout the day with these interactive games that teach feelings.
Activities for Both Toddlers and Older Siblings
Your toddler is at that stage of development where he wants to be a "big boy" and join in the fun with his older siblings. Finding activities that will engage all ages doesn't have to be a challenge or prompt sibling rivalry. Help form and secure a bond between your children—both young and old—with creative crafts, silly sports, outdoor activities and interactive games that are appropriate for all ages.
The Top 10 Beverages to Avoid
A glass of lemonade or bottled tea may sound harmless, but when you look at the added sugar and lack of nutritional value in these calorie-laden beverages, you’ll understand why they can be detrimental to your diet. “One of the most unrecognized ways to blow the calorie bank and pack on extra pounds is drinking high-calorie beverages,” says Kristen Smith, an Atlanta-based registered dietitian and founder of 360 Family Nutrition. Keep your calorie consumption in check by eliminating the 10 beverages on the next slides from your diet.
Tips for a Spotless Microwave
From spaghetti sauce to bread crumbs, if it seems like your microwave is storing leftovers from daily meals, no worries. Make the grime, stains and crumbs disappear with innovative methods to clean without breaking a sweat. Instead of spending hours tirelessly scrubbing, keep it spotless with some simple tricks using natural products safe for your most-used appliance. Before long, your microwave will look shiny and new, ready for your next tasty treat.
Building a Bond, 12 Ways
As your eyes meet and you smile at the blessing in your arms, you know that this precious child will change your life. Finding ways to communicate your love, adoration and the need to nurture your baby often comes naturally. And many ways to bond with your little one and build a natural connection will develop over the years. From gentle caresses to skin-to-skin feeding, bonding with your baby is a blessing in disguise.
Ways to Display Photos on Your TV
Displaying photos around your home is often limiting when you have hundreds of pics you want to display. Instead of printing and framing one or two of your best shots, why not put them all display on your TV? Show off your vacation, school and family fun time photos by easily converting the files for expanded viewing.
Expert Tips to Reduce Energy Consumption
The push to go green is a win-win for your household and the environment. By turning off the lights, unplugging electronics and recycling daily, you can make a big difference in your daily energy usage and help reduce pollution, not to mention the extra effort can save you money on utilities. With just a few minor tweaks to your daily routine, you may soon see how your habits to conserve energy can motivate others to do the same. Now is the time to go green and reduce your family's energy consumption.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 