Your toddler is at a key development phase in her life as she explores the five senses. She sees bright colors, feels the need to touch just about everything she can reach and is beginning to recognize distinct smells. One of the best ways to further her development is to embark on games that focus on the senses. From tasty trivia to touchy-feely games with fabrics, teach your child how to further recognize her senses while bonding with you.
Category: Newspaper Writing
Parenting Requires an Underlying Faith in All We Do
Published April 2014: The Messenger - Faith: A Fresh Take Parenting Requires an Underlying Faith in All We Do Recently, I came across an article that outlined a national survey of 1,200 parents, conducted by LifeWay Research that concluded that faith is not a significant part of parenting for many adults. Although I’m not a… Continue reading Parenting Requires an Underlying Faith in All We Do
The 12 Worst Foods for Appetite Control
When you’re hungry and in a rush, a bagel, protein bar or handful of cereal might be convenient, but it's a short-term fix. “If you eat these foods when you are hungry, you may have a burst of energy at first, but after the sugar high, your blood sugar will plummet and send you looking for another snack.” says Bridget Swinney, a Texas-based registered dietitian and the author of Eating Expectantly: The Practical and Tasty Guide to Prenatal Nutrition. From pasta and microwave meals, to chips and juice, find out which foods are the worst for appetite control.
Space Saver Ideas For Shoes
If your passion is shoe shopping, it’s likely your closet is overloaded with stylish heels, boots, sandals and slip-ons. Space is probably an issue at this point, prompting the need for some space saver ideas for your comfy collectibles. From shelves on display to hidden compartments to store your sensational stilettos, save on space and access your favorite footwear with ease.
The Best and Worst of Easter Candy
When preparing for Easter, concerns about sugar overload run high. Moderation is key during this holiday filled with chocolate bunnies and jellybeans, says Alina Neuberger, M.D., medical director of eMedical Offices in New Jersey. “A common dilemma parents have around Easter is which type of candy to offer their little ones,” she says. “We all know candy is not good for you if eaten regularly, but a holiday-time exception should not be a problem provided that the candy is eaten in moderation." Read on to learn how to pick the best candy options and avoid the worst ones when it comes to Easter candy.
Easter Egg Hunt Ideas
An Easter egg hunt is often the highlight of the season as little ones race through the yard searching for goodies. While it is natural to stick with the hide-and-seek method of hunting each year, there are several alternatives to add a creative touch to the holiday season. Mix it up this year with educational, innovative and fun-filled ideas to make your Easter egg hunt memorable.
The Essentials: Things to Have on Hand for a Natural Disaster
Natural Disasters can bring out both the best and the worst in people, but you can reduce the panic and anxiety of adverse weather conditions by being prepared with tools and resources that can secure your safety. Balancing safety with being human is key, says Scot Conway, leadership trainer at Guardian Quest Martial Arts in Spring Valley, Calif. “Disaster preparedness includes getting back to your life and work as quickly as possible after the disaster,” he says. Protect and prepare your home and your family by having the essentials on hand.
The Essentials: First Aid Kit Must-Haves
Whether you are nurturing skinned knees and scraped elbows in the backyard or wrapping up a sprained ankle on the side of the road, having medical and first aid materials is essential both at home and on the go. Accidents of any kind are bound to happen, and preparation is crucial to ensure the safety of your family. Packing a first aid kit to have on hand doesn’t have to break the bank or take up a lot of room in your vehicle or mudroom. In fact, just by gathering the essentials, you're preparing yourself to better cope with unexpected injuries.
‘In Your Face’ Faith
If you would ask my kids about my parenting style, the phrase “in your face” would probably surface. I’m the type of parent who avoids sweeping anything under the rug. If my child appears to be upset, I’m going to drag it out of him, no matter how much he resists. If my daughter is cranky and snippy, I will harp on her until we get to the root of the problem. Even though children and teens need their space and privacy to work out issues, sweeping problems under the rug does not help. I’m ‘in their face’ until they talk. This doesn’t mean I do the talking — it means my children do the talking. And, one of the most important things I can do as a parent is listen.
Toddler Games That Incorporate Music
Toddlers love to dance to music and play games, so providing opportunities to do both at the same time is a win-win. As your child jumps, skips, shakes his body and sings to melodies, he will be making memories and learning valuable skills that encourage creativity, improvisation and physical activity. From competitive dance games to sing-offs, show your toddler just how fun games can be when you add a little music.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 