Welcoming a new baby can bring out various emotions in the family. Preparing a toddler for a new arrival in the family can be both a wonderful and a stressful time. There are many ways to help your toddler prepare and feel a smooth transition into the idea of having a new baby around the house and many can start during the pregnancy.
Avoid Jealousy Some toddlers may become jealous of a new baby brother or sister. One way to avoid jealousy is to involve the toddler in shopping for the baby. A toddler can also help to prepare the nursery area. You may choose to let the toddler pick out fabric to prepare the new baby's wrap or nursery bedding. You could also consider allowing the toddler to pick a special stuffed animal or other decorative item to be on display in the baby's room. Teaching Involvement Through Experience Another way to prepare and involve a toddler is to teach him or her about babies while the baby is still in the womb. Allowing the toddler to feel the baby move can be helpful in this area as can reading him or her books about babies. Taking the toddler to a daycare, a friend or a relative's house or other location where they can see a baby up close may allow the toddler to prepare for and understand what exactly a baby is. Allowing the child to attend prenatal appointments and see the baby through ultrasound/sonogram as well as hear the heartbeat can also give the toddler a sense of the baby's existence. Help Ease Resentment Anger or resentment is another issue toddlers can experience when there is a new baby introduced to the family. One way to help avoid this is to start any changes related to the toddler in regards to the baby before the toddler even knows about the baby coming. For instance, switching the toddler to a bigger bed in order to reserve and prepare the crib for the baby can cause resentment toward the baby in some children. A possible way to avoid this could be to make the new bed transition before making the announcement of the baby and making the bed transition more of an accomplishment of the toddler rather than an adjustment made to prepare for the new baby. Another situation that could cause resentment is the fact that some toddlers may think the new baby will take all of the attention and love from the parents. If a toddler is used to being the center of attention, the announcement of a new baby may worry him or her and cause thoughts that he or she will be pushed aside to make room for the new baby. Explaining that families have enough love for everyone may help ease the child's mind in this situation. There are various ways to help a toddler prepare and get used to the idea of having a new baby brother or sister in the house. Each family and situation will be unique. Therefore, catering your welcoming methods to your toddler's individual needs may be the best way of all to prepare him or her for the changes that lie ahead. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network 
As a seasoned parent, I have tried my fair share of chore charts, rewards, and punishments when it comes to chores. Some worked for a short period of time and some were a failure from the start. Only one has stood the test of time with both young kids and even tweens. This is when we use a chore tracking system that includes rewards of both money and computer time. It requires a list of chores and a tracking chart. With this method, it’s been possible to get tweens to do chores using allowance and computer time. The tweens are open to this, as are the younger kids. Here’s how it’s done.
Step 1: Create a chore list. This can be on a small sheet of paper that will be tacked to the refrigerator or another common area. List all chores throughout the entire house, big or small. I find it easy to sort the chores by rooms. This helps the kids find them and it also separates simple and hard tasks. For instance, taking out office trash may be simpler than taking out kitchen trash. Step 2: Assign points to each chore. In our house, each point is equal to either a penny or 30 seconds of computer time. Determine how many points should be awarded for each chore, based on its difficulty. For instance, doing the dishes might be worth 50 points (variable). That would be 25 minutes of computer time or 50 cents. But a more simple chore, like washing the counters, might only be worth 15-20 points, depending on how dirty the counters may be. Step 3: Determine when the reward will occur. We allow the computer time to be redeemed any time there is no schoolwork or housework that needs doing. But if the tweens choose money, they can redeem their points for money once per week. This teaches the value of saving because they have to wait and there is only so much computer time one could want. We also limit computer time to a certain number of minutes per day per kid. Step 4: Create a tracking chart. This is separate from the chore list. The tracking sheet will be easiest to use if it can be erased and reused each week. We like to use a dry erase board and markers. We write in each child's name and when they do each chore, the points are placed with their name. The kids are allowed to choose any chores they please. You may decide to do this differently. If any points are rewarded before the end of the week (computer points), those are eased. This way, at the end of the week, the tweens are not confused as to how many points they should have. Step 5: Discuss the chart with your tweens. Let them know the basic rules, as well as how many chores (if any) are expected each day. We are more free with this and I think that opens them up to offer more than they might normally do if forced. Because they have an incentive, it's usually not necessary to ask them to do certain things. They already know that if they don't do any chores, they don't get any allowance or computer time because there won't be any points. Each parent who uses this method may choose to add their own rules or modify the system to fit their family. It is not important to stick to my exact method because each child is different. Consistency is the most important factor of this chore rewards system, as with any other. No matter the method you choose to use with your tweens, be sure it is the right fit in your family and one you can follow through with. Consistency and follow-through are the secrets to success in anything.
normally fills the mop bucket, have him mop the floors as well. The goal is to expand on current tasks and add on new ones as needed. This helps encourage independence at a pace your child can handle.
Give tweens full responsibility for any pets they have. Your tween may already have small pet-related tasks, such as feeding them, cleaning food dishes, playing with them, etc. But try slowly adding on more tasks as can be handled until the pet's full responsibility is up to your tween child. For instance, a 7-year-old may play with her hamster, feed her, and give her small treats as necessary. As she can handle it throughout the months and years, cage changing and cleaning and other tasks can be added. Start teaching tweens to babysit with 'mommy's helper' tasks. Depending on your tween's age and maturity, being what's called a mommy's helper can aid in teaching independence. A mommy's helper is a babysitter or nanny that tends to the younger kids while the responsible adult is still present. Basically, this tween will be responsible for entertaining siblings and preparing simple snacks and meals. It's similar to babysitting, except that there is a responsible adult around to handle the more serious tasks. A mommy's helper usually busies the younger kids while mom works, cleans, or handles other household duties. Enroll your tween in a sport or extracurricular activity. It's true that being involved in sports and activities teaches kids teamwork. But it also teaches independence. They have to learn to do things without you there to help. While you may be sitting on the sidelines at a game, it is up your tween to take action. It's especially helpful if your tween becomes team captain or gets to lead one or more classes with activity instruction. Be independent yourself. If your tween sees you depending on others to get things done, that's the example that will be followed. But if you show that you can do things with or without the assistance of others, that can go a very long way. Because I work from home without a boss, my kids have seen me be very independent from the start. Even when I held more traditional jobs, I've always been a do-it-yourselfer. Whether you think so or not, the things you say and do are going to rub off on your kids. Don't be afraid to let go. Some of the resistance to independence tweens can feel may be due in part to your own resistance. If you can't let go of the security blanket, then neither will your tween. Being free to do things and make decisions on their own prepares tweens for life. While you can't completely let go at this stage, it's important to ease up on controlling the things they can handle on their own.
new ball game full of new discoveries, milestones, and successes and failures. If you pay attention to your tween, you'll be prepared to beat that teen attitude with a smile. Believe me, your effort will be much appreciated.
Letting go is hard, but necessary. Teens need much more space than younger kids. Not only are they likely going through an emotional roller coaster. But being independent is a big part of growing into the adult stage. When your tween starts to become a teen, it's the perfect time to prepare yourself by letting go of certain things. Let your tween make certain choices in preparation for becoming a teen. You can't (and shouldn't) control everything. You're still in charge, but in a different way. Now, just because you will let go of some things when your tween becomes a teen, it doesn't necessarily mean you aren't the boss. You still have the final word and your tween should know this. However, your tween needs to also feel secure in making some decisions without your help. This will become even more necessary once your tween matures into the teenage years. Just choose your time together wisely and pick your battles. Take it one step at a time. It's not going to be easy letting go of your baby or realizing that baby is getting closer to becoming an adult. Just relax and take things as they come. Ease yourself into the process by slowly giving up things within reason. Talk to parents who have been down that road before. Your tween is likely going to be acting differently than a few years ago. There will be new interests, new friends, more mature looks, and possibly a new attitude. It's all a natural part of life, as hard as it may be to watch unfold. For every difficult moment, there will be many happy ones. Always remember that. Find different activities to share. Just because your tween is turning into a teenager, it doesn't mean you can't still have fun together. But your tween's idea of fun may be entirely different than before. Listen your growing child's opinions and choices and let them be heard. Savor the memories from your prior family destinations and activities. Then, make new ones to treasure that go along with your growing teen's needs. Trips to the mall may start to involve movie play dates and makeovers instead of the kiddie play area and ice cream cones. Find out those new things your tween is into and learn how to make them work for you both. Who cares if you don't like the latest band? Take your tween to that concert or buy the music anyway. 
"Mommy, Mommy! My arms are itchy!" Your toddler is standing below you tugging at your pant leg with persistence. You look at her arms and discover she has some sort of rash. To avoid risky scenarios as much as possible, parents can learn more about common houseplants that are poisonous. Here are some of the most common poisonous houseplants to keep away from kids.
Amaryllis An amaryllis is a bulbous herbal houseplant. The flowers are funnel-shaped and vary in color. The poisonous part of the amaryllis is the bulb. If ingested, it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and salivation. Children may be attracted to the amaryllis for its stunning color and shape. Azalea The azalea is a flowering shrub with round clumps of blooms. They can be white, pink or yellow in color. They bear two types of leaves. All parts of the azalea are poisonous. When ingested, these houseplants can cause salivation, loss of energy, depression, nausea, paralysis in the arms and legs, coma, breathing difficulties, weakness and more. These flowers are bright in color and have a unique shape. Caladium The caladium has heart-shaped leaves and can be green, red, orange or white, depending on the species. Some other names for caladium houseplants include mother-in-law plant, heart-of-Jesus, caladio, cananga and angel wings. All parts of the caladium are poisonous when ingested. The caladium causes major irritation to the lips, mouth and throat. Calla Lily The calla lily is a houseplant with long stems or stalks and leaves shaped like arrows. They bloom in white or green. The leaves are the poisonous portion of calla lily houseplants. Irritations to the skin can occur on contact. Ingestion causes an extreme burning feeling to the lips and mouth. While toxic, the calla lily is often considered a very beautiful flowering houseplant. Thus, children may naturally be attracted to its beauty. Cyclamen The cyclamen can be both rounded and heart shaped. This houseplant has flowers which come in red, pink or white. The roots are the poisonous area of cyclamen houseplants. Ingestion can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, paralysis and convulsions. Skin irritation from contact may also occur. Children may be attracted to the delicate size, vibrant colors or unique shape. Dumb Cane Also commonly called dieffenbachia, the dumb cane is a tall leafy plant. The leaves are large and can have ivory colored patches. The poisonous part of the dumb cane is the leaf. If chewed on, the leaf will cause intense pain and cause the mouth to swell. Children may be drawn to this poisonous houseplant because of the design on the leaves or the fact that the leaves are big and easy to grab. Eucalyptus Eucalyptus plants belong to the evergreen family. The leaves are rounded and can be a dark green or red tone. The leaves and bark of the eucalyptus tree are poisonous. Contact skin irritation can occur. Also, ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and coma. The oil from a eucalyptus tree is toxic. Jerusalem Cherry The Jerusalem cherry or coral can be in the form of shrubs or herbs. These houseplants are often spiny or hairy. Black, orange or red berries grow from this plant. The entire plant is poisonous if ingested. However, the berries are the most potent. When ingested, the Jerusalem cherry causes throat irritation, fever, diarrhea and gastric irritation. Children may be attracted to this poisonous houseplant because of its colorful berries. To children, they may resemble edible berries. Philodendron This is generally a climbing vine. Most have large heart-shaped leaves. Contact with the philodendron can cause skin irritation. Ingestion of philodendron plants can cause burning to the lips, mouth and throat. Some children may be attracted to the clutching or climbing aspect of vine houseplants, such as the philodendron. Rosary Pea Also known as rosary pearls, these are tropical houseplants bearing red berries. Ingestion of broken seeds causes a delayed reaction of vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, major abdominal pain, burning in the throat and lesions in the mouth and esophagus. The rosary pea can cause death. Because the peas look edible and are bright red, resembling cranberries, they may attract children. Being sure that the plants in your house are not poisonous to children can save you stress later and even avoid tragedy. Read up on educational materials and consult with poison control centers to better understand which houseplants are safe to have around children and which are not. Sources: California Poison Control System Poisonous Plant Resource Sheet For Childcare Providers (State of NC) 
If you are breastfeeding, you'll want to know when to begin weaning your baby from breastmilk. There is no generalized answer to that question. However, the following information may be helpful in determining an answer. Some may be weaning in order to go back to work while others may be weaning for other reasons, such as the transition into solid foods.
When Should I Start Weaning My Baby? According to KidsHealth.org, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies are breastfed until at least 6 months of age. At that point, it is recommended that a combination of breastmilk and solid foods be given until the baby is at least 1 year old. Experts will vary on the exact time when moms can begin weaning their baby. Consulting with your child's pediatrician is a great way to be sure that the choice you make is catered to your baby's individual needs. Beyond that, watch for cues from your baby's actions, combining that with the doctor's advice. I always found that combining the doctor's advice with baby's cues led to a successful weaning process. Transitioning to Solids Some babies will wean on their own naturally during the transition to solid foods. Others may need their mother to take a leadership role when it comes to weaning. Some are not as willing to wean as others. It may be the easiest to begin weaning your baby when solid foods are a particular interest or distraction. The excitement of new foods may distract the baby's attention from breastfeeding. When a baby is showing more interest in transitioning to drinking liquids in a cup and eating more solid foods, this is a good indication of when to begin weaning. Baby food and liquid amounts should be discussed with the pediatrician to be sure that baby is eating the correct amount. Reducing & Eliminating Nightly Feedings The nightly feedings seem to be the hardest to shy the baby away from. Therefore some mothers opt to use transitioning to solid foods as a perfect opportunity to eliminate nightly feedings. Some mothers may still choose to offer a nightly feeding while transitioning the baby to solids. Importance of Gradual Weaning During the process of weaning, you don't want to just stop breastfeeding all of a sudden. Weaning a baby should involve gradually decreasing the amount of breastmilk given, while gradually increasing other forms of nourishment. This helps to ensure that the baby is getting the proper nourishment needed to thrive. If you are at all unsure of what to do during the process, don't hesitate to talk to your child's pediatrician to accurately assess what is healthy for your baby. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.  Image © Daddy-David; Flickr.com After giving birth, you can expect to feel a variety of emotions, such as relief and joy. Along with that joy might come questions of what to expect, as well as how to care for your infant. Below are some newborn baby care tips that should help you care for your baby and relieve concerns and experiences you might encounter.
Feeding Your Newborn Baby The decision to breastfeed or bottle feed your infant will be one of the very first decisions you will have to make as a mother. This decision should be made very soon after the baby is born so that he or she can feed. When making this decision, consider which option is best for the health of both you and your baby. Our Newborn Feeding Guide For New Moms might help. Newborn Baby Sleeping Schedule Newborn infants will be sleeping the majority of the time. This is completely normal. However, if your newborn baby is not sleeping much, that could be cause for concern. Newborn babies will not sleep through the night and should not be expected to, as they need to feed often. If you are concerned about your newborn’s sleep habits, always ask the doctors in the hospital before discharge (or your baby’s pediatrician afterward). Diapering Diapering might be confusing at first, especially for those who have never changed a diaper before. Choosing between cloth and disposables is one of several things you may be pondering. You also might need to know exactly how to change a diaper, including how often to do so. There might also be concerns as to what a baby's stool should look like or whether or not to use any rash creams or powders. You can expect the doctors to instruct you about these subjects or refer you to the free classes in the hospital. Either will be very beneficial. Visitors Some mothers may enjoy having visitors after birth, while others may not want to be bothered by anyone but another parent of the baby. Whatever your decision, be sure to make it clear before giving birth. That way, you don’t have the stress of unwanted visitors at the hospital. Pacifiers Pacifiers have proven to decrease the risk of SIDS. They should be given to an infant shortly after birth. It can be helpful to bring more than one type of pacifier to the hospital, in case your baby does not prefer those offered in the hospital. You should expect the doctors to discuss pacifier use with you. Congestion If your baby is congested, be sure to mention it to the doctors right away, as it could be a sign of RSV, a very serious illness, especially in infants. Preemies are the most at risk for this, but any infant can develop RSV. Always immediately inform the doctor of any congestion in your infant. Fever Infants rarely get a fever. A fever could be a sign of infection, especially RSV. Inform the doctor right away if your baby has a fever. Since you will still be in the hospital, the doctors may even discover the fever before you do. It is routine for the doctors to keep track of a newborn's temperature. Lanugo Lanugo is thick hair in places on the infant you wouldn't normally see hair. This will disappear over time. Jaundice Jaundice is when the baby's skin is yellow in color. This can be a sign of infection. If you notice jaundice, tell the doctors right away. More From Lyn: How To Help A Newborn Poop Caring For Sensitive Baby Skin 5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby’s Vomiting? Cure Baby Diaper Rash Quickly and Naturally  Image © elvissa; Flickr.com Spitting up is very common in both formula-fed and breastfed babies and is generally quite normal. When the baby starts vomiting, that is another story. If your baby is vomiting, you may be asking the question, "How can I cure my baby's vomiting?"
Baby Vomiting Warning Signs First off, if your baby is less than 1 month old and is vomiting, you need to stop reading this for now and call the doctor right away. By vomiting, this does not mean spitting up, which is normal. This could mean spitting up more than a small amount of formula or projectile vomiting. Other warning signs include failure to gain weight, spit up that is green or brown, refusal to drink formula, acting hungrier than usual, less diaper wetting, diarrhea, and much more. Basically, look for abnormal behavior and signs of sickness. Visiting The Doctor Is A Must Vomiting in babies is not to be taken lightly. It can cause dehydration, loss of vital nutrients, and it could even be an indication of an infection or medical condition. The first step in curing your baby's vomiting is taking him or her to the doctor. The doctor will do tests and ask questions to determine the cause of the vomiting. Once you have received a diagnosis, the doctor will likely give you tips and information on how to cure the baby's vomiting. Medications may also be prescribed, depending on the diagnosis. The most common cause of vomiting in babies is gastroenteritis, which is usually caused by a virus in the intestines. General Treatments For Infants Who Are Vomiting A baby who is vomiting needs plenty of fluids because these can be lost during vomiting. A doctor may recommend giving a very small amount of an oral electrolyte solution (such as Pedialyte) every 20 minutes until vomiting subsides. Starting with 1/2 ounce and then increasing it as baby is allowed to keep the fluids down is a common recommendation. While increasing the oral electrolyte solution, keep in mind that you should not give your baby more than he or she would normally consume in a bottle feeding at one time. Vomiting should normally start to decrease within a few days or less. If vomiting is not decreasing, even if the baby has already seen the doctor, the doctor should be consulted right away. That statement is not meant to scare anyone. It is simply vital that parents know infant vomiting can be a serious issue, if not addressed quickly. Most cases of baby vomiting will clear up in a few days or less. Formula intake may be reduced or halted, but should only be done under the advice of a qualified medical professional. Once baby's vomiting starts to decrease and the baby has gone without vomiting for a substantial amount of time, formula can be reintroduced into the baby's diet slowly. Start with small amounts that are fed to the baby closer together than usual. As the baby is able to hold in the formula, begin to ease back into the normal feeding pattern. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters. Sources: Mayo Clinic KidsHealth More From Lyn: How to Tell If Your Baby Has A Soy Allergy 5 Natural Ways To Relieve Infant Constipation How To Help A Newborn Poop 5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant Newborn Feeding Guide For New Moms  Image © Electric Gnome; Flickr.com When your teen is shouting and stomping, you'll try just about anything to get them to stop. But forget about all those fancy programs. If your teen is the average child without any mental or physical conditions, get back to basics. These simple, yet creative methods work time and again when my teen gets a little cranky.
Find your teen a hobby or let them work. Sometimes a cranky teen is simply a bored teen. Give them something to do. This could be something simple like walking the dog daily. They also may want to volunteer at a local animal shelter. My teen daughter visits so much, she is going to apply for an official position this summer. Sports and local community classes are another way to take up that time and release pent up energies. Department stores, restaurants, and many other establishments often have positions teens can apply for. Spend more time together. You may think they want you to completely disappear. But the truth is, your teen still loves you and wants your attention. Take time out as often as possible to spend with your teen. It doesn't matter so much what you do, as long as you are spending time together. My teen likes me to go with her to the animals shelter. We also might take walks or have a mother and daughter day. If you have other kids, like I do, try rotating time with each one and spending time with all together. Give teens room to breathe. This may seem to contradict the idea of spending time together. But in order to be happy and balanced, your teen needs both. Let your teen be independent if he's feeling especially moody. The teenage years can come with pent up frustration for many reasons. Friends, hormones, and just life in general could be stressing your teen out. Let him be alone to think before rushing to ask questions. Sometimes too much prodding can cause even more pressure, especially if your teen is facing a difficult issue or decision. Just listen. If you want your teen to be able to chill the attitude and open up to you, be quiet. I know firsthand that it can be hard not to ask what's going on or analyze the situation. But sometimes us parents just need to keep our lips sealed. The silence can help calm your teen down and make her feel comfortable enough to open up. When she starts talking, don't offer advice right away. Just listen until she is done. Her attitude may be in part due to the fact that she feels no one is listening to her. If you are always offering advice, you could be adding to those insecure thoughts. Laugh often. I know, I know. This is so simple. It sounds like it is easier said than done. But trust me, when there is constant laughter, your teen will have an easier time ditching the attitude to the curb. I'm not saying don't take problems seriously. But learn to laugh at mistakes and learn from them. Tell jokes all the time, even if they are corny. Laughter helps relieve stress in both teens and adults and can be very helpful in ditching an attitude problem. It's pretty hard not to laugh when everyone else in the room is doing it. Try it. You'll see what I mean. Keep in mind that there can be serious reasons behind your teen's attitude. So, don't ignore those signs, even if they are faint. Also, be sure your teen has regular visits to the appropriate health professionals. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image © WhitA; Flickr.com Part of being a child is playing outdoors. Outdoor play can offer a child many benefits, such as lessons in nature and physical movement skills. No matter how careful the child and parent are to follow safety rules, sometimes children get hurt. Below, you will find some typical minor injuries a child can receive while playing, as well as advice and safety tips for each. If the child's injury is an emergency, call 911 right away.
Minor Cuts and Scrapes For minor cuts and scrapes, rinse the wound with clear water to avoid irritation and rinse with an antiseptic. Next, apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. For the most minor wounds, leave the area uncovered, as a bandage can slow the healing process. For deeper minor wounds, apply a bandage of appropriate size to help prevent infection from getting in. Change the bandage and re-apply the antibiotic ointment twice daily, until the wound has closed. Large, deep, or puncture wounds should receive medical attention via 911 right away. Sunburn The best way to prevent sunburn is to apply sunscreen on your child every time he plays outside. Sunscreen that contains an SPF of 30 or higher (the higher, the better) and is PABA free is the best for use in children. If your child has a sunburn, gently place cool cloths on the affected area for a few minutes. Afterward, apply aloe gel. Do not apply lotions or water warmer than room temperature, as this will sting the sunburned area. Insect Bites and Stings To prevent an insect bite or sting from happening, use insect repellent with DEET. If your child has received an insect bite or sting, first remove the stinger (if applicable) by scraping it off with a credit card or similar surface. Wash the area thoroughly. Do not squeeze the affected area. This can spread any venom. Apply an antiseptic to remove germs and ease the itch. If a bite is swollen, apply an antihistamine cream. If a bite or sting becomes hard or infected, contact your child's pediatrician. Allergic Reactions During outdoor play, it is possible for your child to experience allergic reactions to insect bites or stings, plants, and more. Signs of an allergic reaction include abnormal swelling, rash/hives, having trouble breathing, fever, and nausea, and even anaphylaxis. If your child has a known allergy, it is important to keep an emergency safety kit containing epinephrine shots, in case of anaphylaxis. If this occurs, treat your child accordingly and get emergency help right away by calling 911. Bruises and Bumps Outdoor play for children often includes dodging balls, running fast, and even just playing rough. Bruises and bumps happen frequently in many children just from playing. If your child gets a bruise or bump, first check the area to be sure that the injury isn't more serious. Place a cold compress, such as an ice pack or frozen vegetables on the affected area to reduce swelling. Contact a doctor if needed. Take proper concussion cautions if the injury is on the head. This is not an all-inclusive list. However, it should help inform you regarding typical outdoor injuries and risks for children. Remember that your child’s licensed physician is the best source of information. Discuss these and other risks with that physician to compare and be sure you are doing the right thing. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image © timsackton; Flickr.com To keep kids active and promote physical fitness, strive to provide more than just an exercise routine. You can make it fun at the same time. When you transform exercise into an active game, a child will show far more interest. Because of the element of fun, kids may not even realize, or care at all, that they are participating in a form of exercise.
One fun, active game to play is "Spray Bottle Relay Race". It's a popular game and is even used in schools as part of Field Day or just as a fun activity. In Spray Bottle Relay Race, the kids will work pretty much the entire body. Spray Bottle Relay Race should be played in an open field, such as one at a school or park. It's a team game, but can be easily modified for fewer kids. This game is fun for school-aged children of all ages. The only materials needed to play this active game are batons and large spray bottles. The spray bottles should be ones that can spray a straight line of water, not a mist. There should be 2 batons and 1 spray bottle for each team. Setting up the game is fairly simple. First, determine how many teams there will be. Then, split up the kids accordingly. Figure out where the start and finish lines will be and place a baton at each to mark the spot. Alternatively, a chalk line can be drawn to mark the start and finish lines as well. Have the kids line up behind both the start and finish lines. Give each of the kids located at the start lines a spray bottle, filled with water and ready to spray. To start the game, blow a whistle or shout "Go!" The children who are first at each of the start lines will race to the finish lines and then squirt their next teammate with the spray bottle (no face shots allowed) and hand off the spray bottle. Then, that child will run to the start line and spray the next teammate and hand off the bottle. This will continue until all of the children have run at least once. Ideally, each child should run more than once. Splitting the children into small teams can help make that happen. This active exercise will give the kids a great cardio workout, as well as helps them cool off on a hot day. It works the entire body while running and also increases the heart rate. The action of squirting the water also gives an added bonus of using the smaller muscles in the arms, hands, and wrist. It makes for a great last minute opportunity for getting kids active, as the supplies are ones that may already be on hand. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image © Skakerman; Flickr.com Keeping kids exercising is often as simple as finding a fun, energetic sport or activity that they enjoy. One sport you don't see enough of anymore (besides on school playgrounds) is tetherball. Remember that game from the schoolyard where you would take turns trying to punch a ball on a string around a pole? That's tetherball.
To enjoy tetherball, you don't have to hunt down the nearest gym or school who happens to have access to it. All you need to do is either buy your own or make your own. It's not as hard as it may sound. The local sporting goods store will generally have an easy-to-set-up, low-cost, low-grade tetherball game, even including the pole. The instructions will come with the set. If you want a more sturdy tetherball game, try making your own. It's very simple and depending on the ages and abilities of the kids, they may even be able to help. All you need is a small bag of concrete mix, an old tire with the rim still inside, a cheap tarp, a metal pole, a bolt with a hook, a drill with a metal bit, and a pre-strung tetherball. First, drill a hole the correct size for the bolt into the top of the pole. Next, screw in the bolt. Mix the concrete thickly. Set the tire on top of the tarp.Now place the mixed concrete inside of the tire. Fill the entire hole. Place the pole in the center of the mixed concrete inside the tire. Smooth out the concrete. The pole should stand straight up and if the concrete is thick enough, it will not move. Allow it to dry completely. There's your tetherball pole. Now, just hang your tetherball and you and the kids can start to play. Tetherball rules are very simple. Player one is the server. To serve the ball, much like volleyball, set it atop the non-dominant hand and punch it with the other. The goal is to get the tetherball to wrap completely around the pole without interruption from the other player. Each player must take turns hitting the ball in opposite directions until one player wraps it around the pole. Whomever wraps it around the pole first is the winner. Players may not grab the string or hold onto the ball. Either is an automatic "out". If this occurs, the next player will come in and a new game will begin. Players may only punch or hit the ball. As you can see, a simple project can provide the kids with a lasting way to be active. Sports like this are great because a child can play solo or with a friend or family member. This helps them reach sports and fitness goals more often. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network What Every Parent Should Know About Kids and Water by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image © donnierayjones; Flickr.com Do you know what dry drowning is or how to prevent it happening to your kids? There are some important facts every parent needs to know before their child enters the water. This is especially true when children are in or near large bodies of water, such as lakes, beaches, and swimming pools. Always be on the lookout for signs of distress when kids are in these situations.
What is Dry Drowning? Dry drowning is not to be mistaken with pulmonary edema, although at first it may seem the same. Pulmonary edema in kids occurs when too much liquid, like water or chlorine, is swallowed and that liquid irritates the air sacs. The lungs react to this by filling up with fluids. Dry drowning is when something noxious or extremely cold meets the vocal chords. This causes them to close up, which makes it hard to breathe. In dry drowning, the harder the person tries to breathe, the worse it will get. I recently spoke with EMT Kathrine Lloyd and here is what she had to say about dry drowning in kids: "It's not just the vocal cords involved, it's the muscles of the larynx and vocal cords together that go into spasm (laryngospasm - body's attempt at self preservation by keeping more water from entering the lungs)." "Water that is swallowed travels down the esophagus into the stomach. Water that is inhaled enters the trachea and the lungs. If a parent believes that their child has inhaled even a small amount of salt water, they should take them to the hospital whether the child seems okay or not." "Our body's quest to maintain homeostasis dictates that once salt has been in our lungs, our body will push water into our lungs to balance things, which causes drowning once the child is no longer near water. As a rescuer, we call this a 'parking lot drowning'. Children oftentimes will die within 24 hours of a near drowning in salt water because of this." "Most parents believe that once the child is on land and breathing, they have dodged the bullet, which isn't necessarily the case unfortunately!"" Signs and Symptoms of Dry Drowning Since dry drowning generally occurs if there has been a near drowning experience, you should be watching for these symptoms already. But also keep in mind that dry drowning needs to be treated and observed by a licensed medical professional. Any of the symptoms below can mean a variety of things. However, all can be serious whether they indicate dry drowning in kids or not. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms below or any other suspicious symptoms, always seek immediate medical attention. Continuous or persistent coughing - If your child is coughing uncontrollably for long periods of time, this could be a symptom of dry drowning. It also could signify another health issue that requires immediate medical attention. Shortness of breath - Trouble breathing or shortness of breath is another telltale sign that something is wrong. This symptom of dry drowning requires prompt medical care. Chest Pain - If your child is complaining of pain in the chest area, this could be another sign of dry drowning. Kids can experience this for other issues as well. However, any chest pain in kids should be taken seriously, whether it is suspected of being dry drowning or not. Fatigue or Lethargy - While fatigue or lethargy can be a symptom of a whole host of things, it can be a good indicator of dry drowning as well. If your child is extremely tired or not like his usual self, something could be very wrong. How to Prevent Dry Drowning in Kids Proper supervision and safety training is the best prevention for dry drowning. Adults should always be attending any kids in the water. Never stray far from the vicinity of a child who is swimming, wading, or playing in or around water. Know CPR and other first aid and water safety rules and procedures. Educate children on appropriate behavior in the water. Swimming lessons and water safety classes are ideal for all kids and adults before anyone steps into the water. *IMPORTANT: The author is not a licensed medical professional and the material contained within is intended for informational purposes only. Always seek health advice and care from a licensed medical professional. If you think your child may be a victim of dry drowning or is in another emergency situation, call 911 immediately. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved As parents we can spend so much time worrying over every little detail. Your house is clean, the kids are clean and happy, but how green are your parenting habits? Is your daily parenting routine good or bad for the environment? Living green is part of my normal household routine. For us, it's not a choice, but a way of life. With a few small changes to start with, your family can be this dedicated to a more eco-friendly lifestyle as well.
Convenience can be wasteful. Sure, it can be easier to use disposable dishes and flatware for kids. But think about the impact on the planet. Did you know that paper plates may be consuming more energy than styrene foam? If you really must take convenience over reusable items, foam will cause less toxic methane gas after disposed of and have less impact on energy consumption. But if you can afford it, compostable disposables, such as bamboo dinnerware and flatware, are the best disposable option. Many are compostable right from your own home. What do you clean your home with? Chemicals can harm the earth and your child. Before doing the dishes, sanitizing the bathroom, or wiping down that baby high chair, think about what you are using. Did you know there are natural products that work just as well as (and sometimes better than) the chemical cleaners sold in stores? Instead of bleaching the toys your baby will put in his mouth, find a natural alternative. Sanitizing your bathroom is possible without using chemicals. You can also make many eco-friendly household cleaners yourself and for cheaper than the chemical options. Just like chemicals, there are safety precautions to follow with natural alternatives as well. But when used properly, the natural products will be safer for the kids and better for the planet. Be careful how you launder. The chemicals used to wash your child's clothing may be toxic to the earth and even to your family. Did you know that fabric softeners may be hazardous to your child's health? You can also disinfect and "bleach" your child's clothing without using chlorine bleach. Everyday household products, such as vinegar and baking soda may be the answer to your laundering needs. They'll cut down on cost, as well as wasteful practices. We like to hang our clothes to dry in order to cut back on energy usage. Clothing racks can fit neatly in the laundering area or even inside the bathtub if your space is limited. For warmer days, hang the clothing outside via a rack or clothesline. Are your kids recycling? Teach your kids to recycle as much waste as possible. This could be plastic bottles, milk cartons and jugs, egg cartons, cardboard boxes, aluminum, newspapers, broken toys, and more. Many papers, plastics, and metals can be taken to the recycling center or even picked up from your house. Call your local recycling center to find out what services are available in your area. Some sanitation companies and recycling centers will hand out recycling bins and pick them up on a routine schedule. You may even be able to collect some cash from recycling these items. I let my kids keep any money returned via recycling as one incentive to stay proactive about the process. It's also important that kids know what happens to items when items are wasted and not reused, as well as possible impact on their future. Is your child's school lunch packed the green way? If your child takes a sack lunch to school frequently, think about all the waste it may be causing. Lunch sacks that are both biodegradable or compostable and reusable are a better option than the brown paper bag. They also save you from having to purchase new bags all the time. The same goes for the containers used to hold the food. If your child is likely to come home without his nice bag and reusable containers, opt for compostable disposables instead. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved There are a variety of fun events children can attend during summer vacation, many of them free. A great number of parents are unaware these events are free or that they even exist. This is because not all of them are are always listed on events calendars. They also aren't always what parents may think about when considering free summer events and activities for kids.
Free Summer Concerts Many cities have free concerts, especially during the summer. Parks, town squares, and even libraries will often be the location for these. To check listings for free concerts in your city, visit your city's official web site, check the local newspaper, and check at the library for fliers or schedules. Oftentimes free concerts are geared toward children and the ones that aren't may even be G-rated and enjoyable for all ages. These will keep kids busy singing and dancing along. Since most will be in parks or children's libraries, kids can feel free to just be kids. Free Summer Workshops Many retail stores and museums hold free or low-cost workshops, even for kids. Topics may include DIY home improvement projects, history, nature conservation, safety tips, art, crafts, and many more. Workshops are generally interactive, keeping the kids busy making or learning about something. To find out about these workshops call and check the websites of local museums, home improvement stores, nature conservancies, zoos, craft stores, and anywhere else you can think of. These aren't always filed under events listings. Zoo Free Days Zoo free days are an exciting event for kids and their parents. The kids receive entertainment and the parents will love the small impact on the summer fun budget. To save even more, bring along your own sack lunch. At the zoo, kids can learn about animals and have fun watching them. An interesting time to go is feeding time for certain animals, so keep that in mind. This is when certain animals and their trainers will be busy putting on shows for the audience. Also, check to see if there are any animals in the nursery. If so, there may be some accompanying educational info for the kids. Museum Free Days Like free zoo days in the summer, parents and kids alike will find this worthwhile. Keep in mind that even though admission and permanent museum exhibits will be free, there may be charges for special exhibits or shows. Some parents may choose to avoid those on free day, yet others will just be glad to save the general admission. If you kids especially enjoy the museum or it's beneficial to various studies, you might consider purchasing a yearly membership. These generally pay for themselves after just a few visits. Summer Parades Most cities have some type of parade, even small ones. If no main parades are scheduled for the summer, check with museums, art galleries, theaters, and other organizations. Sometimes they hold small parades that the kids would enjoy. Most kids are amazed at watching horses, dancers, floats, and anything else parade past them down the street. Factory, Warehouse, Orchard, and Farm Tours Just about every area seems to have at least one factory or manufacturing plant of some kind. Children love the excitement of learning how things work behind the scenes. Try food factories, farms, orchards, product assembly warehouses, and more. Most manufacturing companies have some type of tour and many are free. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Are your tweens bored during family outings and activities? Perhaps you just need to switch things up and try something new. You don't necessarily have to spend too much money on fancy gadgets. In fact, that could distract them from family fun. To keep the tweens from being bored, our family is always trying something new. Here are some of the all-time favorites that have passed the 'tween fun' test.
Turn walking into an adventure. Asking your tweens to go on a walk may bore them. But only if you make it seem like a chore. Instead, turn it into an exploration. Take a walk on neighborhood trails and bring along specimen containers and other investigative tools. A note pad is great for drawing observations and writing down interesting discoveries and theories. A magnifying glass can help when inspecting insects, leaves, animal tracks, and more. Binoculars are useful when watching birds and other creatures at a distance. Flash back to when all we used was imagination. Today's tweens are often so into technology that some rarely use their imaginations. Think back to those fun little games you played, such as Telephone, telling ghost stories, Truth or Dare, and more. Remember all the fun you had playing these games with friends and family? Play them with your family and if your tween has her won ideas or variations, go along with them. These games are not just a good source of entertainment. They can also help bring families closer through the power of laughter. The best part is that they can usually be adapted to fit all age ranges. This is an important aspect in a large family like ours. Scavenger hunts are cheap, easy, and entertaining. It doesn't take strenuous planning to set up a scavenger hunt. But the resulting fun and memories are priceless. Create a list of items for each child to find in the backyard or area park. These should be easy things to find in nature, such as a dried leaf, a fallen twig, or a rock. Your tweens (and even the younger kids) can be given a reusable grocery bag for collection purposes. It's up to you whether to make it a competition and award prizes or just let the kids go to it finding the items. If you want to mix things up even more, instead of the list, give the kids a treasure map or one clue at a time as each item is found. Tweens and music go hand-in-hand. Turn up the music and have a family dance session. But don;t play just your music. Let the tweens choose music as well. I know, I know, some of their choices will be worse than nails on a chalkboard - at least to your ears. Save the complaints about it for another time and just enjoy the time with your kids. Understanding the music your tweens listen to can help you understand them more as well. The kids might even be able to teach you a new dance. You know they will feel you need the lessons. Wacky sports can be a big hit with tweens. Have you ever tried blending sports together? For instance, try playing soccer or basketball while skating. Invent your own sports by mixing up and combining two or more sports with each other. Safety first, of course, but other than that, be creative. Water Balloon Golf is one of the more interesting combination games my kids and I enjoy playing together. This one is best played on warmer days. If it's a good day for swimming, then it's a good day for this golf variation. by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Are you a frugal mom or dad? Even if you answered no, I can show how to be frugal with at least one thing. Kids go through clothing just as fast as they go through water. But by being smart, as well as creative, you can make kids clothing last longer. I regularly practice what I preach on this because clothes are expensive. Who wants to buy new ones before the existing ones have been used more than a couple times? From laundering habits to crafts, there are several methods my kids and I use to get full use of their clothes.
Use fabric and accessories to extend the life of clothes they grow out of. Kids grow so fast, sometimes so much so that it seems they barely get any wearing time from their clothes. What I like to do with my kids is have a fun craft session where we add fabric and other accessories to clothing to increase the size. For instance, if jeans still fit the waist but are a little short in the legs, add some length with fabric, lace, and other embellishments. If the waist has gotten a bit too small, open up each side seam and add some fun fabric to let the waist out a little. Add matching fabric in other areas (such as the knees) that might be worn out. Use gentle laundry products. Frequent cleaning with products that are too harsh on clothing can reduce its lifespan. Try using gentler, non-abrasive cleansers that are free of chemicals, perfumes, and dyes. This can help increase the number of wears your child gets out of the clothing. It's also better for the environment and the health of your child. Look for products made from natural ingredients. But also check to make sure those ingredients are not too harsh on your child's clothing or to the skin. Wash on gentle cycle or by hand. Kids are already rough on their clothes as it is. Ease up on the wear and tear by hand washing their clothing or washing it on gentle cycle. Washing clothing by hand can be much gentler than other methods if done right. Try not to scrub too hard as this will certainly not help the clothes last longer. Lukewarm water is best when it comes to being gentle with clothing. Extreme temperatures can cause colors to fade. Also, if you are washing by hand, lukewarm will be gentler on your skin. Line dry the clothing. Rather than exposing clothing to the intense heat in a dryer, try line-drying the clothing instead. If you must use the dryer, use a low heat or air dry setting. Over time, exposure to high heat can cause fading in your child's clothing. Line drying can help make the clothing last longer. But be careful of how you do that as well. If you leave the clothing in high temperatures outside or right in the direct sunlight too long, fading also may occur. Cut it up to make new clothing. Another thing the kids and I like to do, especially my oldest daughter, is to cut things up for making new outfits. Skirt too short? Chop a piece off of another in the same condition and sew the two together for a funky look. Have a dress that's grown too short? Chop it up to make a shirt from the top half. A bottom seam will be easy to sew. Use the leftovers to add to a skirt or chop it up to make patches, headbands, and more. The kids and I always have fun doing this. It helps us extend the life of their clothing and also gives us a great family activity. Be careful when deciding who can use scissors and other sewing materials that may pose a danger. by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Writing and music can both be wonderful outlets for talent as well as feelings. When combined together, it can greatly help kids relieve stress. Plus, it's a fun way to sneak in some writing practice and also to let them use their creativity, imagination, and thinking skills. This is a method I've had success using with my own kids and I hope it helps others as well.
Combating Sibling Rivalry When siblings are arguing, I find that having them write songs is a great way for them to deal with those feelings. Holding feelings in is no good. But neither is acting them out on each other. Writing a song about it helps the kids relieve tension by getting the feelings out in a more constructive manner. When the kids reread the or sing the lyrics, they may laugh and find what they wrote is not really that bad after all. Expressing Hurt Feelings When a child gets their feelings hurt, sometimes they need someone to talk to. Other times they just want to be alone. That alone time may be the perfect opportunity for a kid to express hurt feelings through song. Sometimes just the act of writing it all down can help kids relieve stress. Performing it as a blues song can be fun for the child as well as the audience. The audience could be a parent or the whole family. It depends on what the child feels they want to do. Expressing Other Stressful Feelings Besides sibling rivalry and hurt feelings, there are a host of other things that may lead to stress in kids. These could be things like being bullied, keeping up with grades in school, weight issues, and many more. Writing feelings in song form gives kids a positive outlet for expression. Also, if the songs are then performed afterward, more stress relief can come in the singing and dancing. Also, in the dancing can be some great exercise, which is another fun and easy way to help reduce stress in kids. Expressing Happiness Yes, writing songs can be wonderful when a child is stressed, but also don't forget to do so when your child is happy as well. Songwriting is a fun activity that the family can do together. It can also lead to laughter, which in my experience can reduce stress significantly. Kids can each write their own songs or everyone can write songs together. Even try a combination. Performing the songs afterward can be fun for the kids and parents both. *Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional and the above is for informational purposes only. If your child is stressed, as with any health issues, contact his or her pediatrician. **I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  "But mommy, I don't like my car seat." If your child says that often, you might be wondering if he or she is old enough to forgo the car seat. But before you give in to a child's whims, you need to check the safety guidelines and laws. How long should a child use a car seat? Being a mom and former nanny, I study car seat guidelines often and keep up with new information.
When Does a Child Start Using a Car Seat? From the moment a child is born, any time the infant is in a vehicle, a car seat is required. In fact, newborn babies cannot go home from the hospital unless it is proven that they have properly installed car seats to ride home in. Some hospitals will even give new mothers a free car seat to ensure this happens. A car seat safety class may be required to obtain the car seat. As soon as your infant starts riding in any vehicle, that's when it's time for a car seat. Never allow an infant to ride in a vehicle without the proper car seat for his or her age and stage. The Importance of Following Updated Car Seat Guidelines Car seat guidelines are often modified to keep up with new discoveries and safety measures. These guidelines are developed based on many different factors, such as laws and health and safety studies. Not following these guidelines can put your child in danger . Data from the National Center for Health Statistics states that vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for kids aged 3 to 14. Proper car seat usage can help prevent some of these deaths by up to 71% for infants and up to 54% for toddlers. How Long Should A Child Use a Car Seat? At what age or stage should a child stop using a car seat? This actually depends on the child. The 2010 AAP guidelines for car seat safety recommend that a child stay in a booster seat until they reach the height of 4' 9". This usually occurs somewhere between the ages of 8-12 years. The purpose of a booster seat is so that the adult restraint (seat belt) fits over the child properly. If the lap and shoulder belt do not properly fit your child, that means a booster seat should be used. The lap belt should be situated snugly across the thighs and the shoulder belt should be secured across the chest and shoulder. If the shoulder belt is at the neck or throat, your child still needs a booster seat. *This is not meant to be a complete guide to car seat safety. Always stay updated on all of the proper car seat safety guidelines to keep your infants and children safe in a motor vehicle. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  "Smack!" With your mouth wide open, you ask "Did my toddler just hit me?" As strangers and friends look on, you struggle to get the situation under control. Feeling the sting of the hand from none other than your own precious little toddler can be hard. It's even more difficult when you're in public. I've dealt with this situation both as an onlooker, as well as from a personal standpoint.
Act immediately. The most important thing you can do with a behavior like this is regain control as soon as possible. As soon as your toddler hits you, there needs to be an action from you. This could vary, depending on your child, the severity of the incident, and your parenting methods. Whether you put your child in timeout, leave the location, or something else entirely, it needs to be done right away. Let your toddler know you mean business. Toddlers like pushing buttons. This is how they learn how to interact with people. Remember that while very smart, this is a stage where kids are trying to understand which behaviors are acceptable. They will be very persistent and will also test you to see what they can get away with. Some may do it more in public because they feel you are more vulnerable to quickly placating them. Whatever you let them do is what they will believe to be correct. If smacking you gets a giggle or a request, this behavior will be repeated. I once had a friend who unintentionally taught her toddler to hit her on the leg every time he wanted her attention. If she didn't comply, he kept at it until she gave in. She would joke about how cute it was. It wasn't cute anymore when he attempted the same trick with a teacher. Toddlers repeat what they see. If you use spanking as discipline in your home, your toddler could be repeating the behavior. They also could be repeating what a friend or sibling does. Perhaps she saw hitting on TV. Just because your toddler is hitting you, it doesn't mean she hates you. She may simply be repeating an action she saw elsewhere. If you don't want your toddler to hit you or anyone else, do your best not to let her be around that behavior. Everyone will know best. If your toddler hits you in public, be prepared for advice from all sides. Any and every one will have their thoughts on the matter. It's a natural instinct, especially for fellow parents, to speak up on such matters. Some thoughts may be lighthearted. But other words may sting. For your toddler's sake, keep cool. If you see things are headed in the wrong direction, it's best to leave the scene. The worst thing you can do when your toddler is hitting is to cause other negative behaviors, such as arguing. Emphasize the pain. Even if it doesn't hurt much when your toddler hits you, he needs to know that it can. Now this does not mean you should hit him back. That's not a very positive thing to do and if you're in public (or even in private) it could land you discipline time, instead of your toddler. There are other ways to model feelings. Make sad faces and also ask your toddler what it feels like when he gets hit by someone. Make it clear that hitting gets the bad attention, not the good attention. Compare hitting to hugs and ask your toddler which one he likes better. Answer with a "me too" when he chooses hugs. Then, give him a big hug and tell him you hope he gives you lots more of those every day. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network Stop Kids From Jumping on Couches and Beds  Image (c) Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved "Lisa, get off the couch like that! I told you it's only for sitting." "James, the bed is for sleeping, not jumping." If this sounds like your house, you may be looking for ways to deter kids from jumping on the furniture. Who doesn't like to bounce around and what bounces better than a couch or bed in a kid's eyes? They may not understand exactly why it's such a bad idea.
Explain what can happen. Furniture may wear out from all the bouncing. That could be worrisome for some parents. Furniture isn't cheap. But if you're like me, even though replacement isn't ideal, that's the least of your concerns. When you have kids, it's pretty much a given that things will break. But kids do need to understand that even though bouncing on furniture is fun, it can also be dangerous. They can get hurt. Younger kids might get that message best by singing songs. A good example is "Ten Little Monkeys Jumping On The Bed" where the monkeys disappear one by one because of getting injured while jumping on the bed. Older kids should know better. However, a reminder can do them some good if they are still jumping on furniture. Choose a punishment and make it clear. This is key to making the point that furniture is not for jumping on. Choose a punishment according to your child's age and abilities. Your child needs to know that is what will happen each time he jumps on the bed, couch, or other furniture. Establish this from the very beginning if possible. If your child has already started to jump on the furniture, be sure he knows this new rule. Some ideas may be time out, loss of a privilege, and even an allowance markdown. Be consistent with your rule. If you tell your child the rule but only enforce it sometimes, it doesn't actually help to have the rule. If you want your child to take you seriously, you need to take the chosen action every single time she jumps on the furniture. Letting it go even once can cause a backslide and it could make it even more difficult to get the situation under control. Being consistent also applies from room-to-room. If you don't allow couch jumping, then don't allow bed or chair jumping either. Changing things from one area to the next can be confusing for a child. Give them an alternative. Perhaps the kids are jumping on the furniture because it's simply fun to do so. Give them another option. You can't really expect them to want to stop something fun without an equally enticing option. A kid-safe trampoline is one option. An inflatable bounce house or a pogo stick are also great for bouncing. Whether you choose one of those or something else, make sure it's as fun as (or more fun than) jumping on the couch or bed. If the alternative option is less fun, its not going to deter the kids from the furniture for long. Let them expend some energy. Maybe the kids just have extra energy to waste. Since they are indoors, the furniture is their first target. Let them run around in the backyard or take them to the park. Whenever my kids have extra energy, I like to take them for long walks on local nature trails. If kids aren't allowed to let out all their energy, they will begin trying to let it out in creative ways. Allowing them plenty of physical play can help prevent them from being too energetic indoors, which could be good for your furniture. It's not 100% foolproof, but it should at least cut down on these instances. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image (c) Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved As kids grow older, especially into the tween and teen years, it's natural for them to become more independent. But don't let that independence take away the closeness in your family. This doesn't mean you should embarrass them by being too attached in front of their friends. In fact, by giving your tweens space, you can remain close to them and even strengthen bonds. It may seem strange to think of space and bonding as related. But as a current parent of tweens, it has been a very effective method.
Giving tweens space shows them you understand. How many times have we all heard kids state their parents don't understand them? By giving them space, you can show them you do indeed understand their needs. Be sure to let them know you understand that need and even talk to them about when you were their age. Sometimes they are going through emotional and physical changes and just want to be alone. Other times, they may want to enjoy their friends, a TV show, or a good book without you in the room. As long as they aren't doing anything wrong, give them some space to enjoy life. When tweens have space, they may be more willing to come to you for help. Extra freedom and space can help tweens sort out things in their minds. Remember that they have thoughts, issues, and feelings too. Being a kid does not exempt them from life. Now, more than ever, tweens face a wide variety of confusing and conflicting situations every day. Knowing you trust them enough to give them freedom can help build trust so they'll be willing to come to you when they should. Space can equate to stronger bonding. You may find that having separate time away from your tween causes you both to want some quality time as well. Sometimes being apart from those you care about shows people how much they really need each other. Continue to give your tween space. But you can also take special time together that''s convenient for both of you to keep that parent-child bond going strong. Choose activities you both enjoy to make the most of your time together. Respecting your tween's privacy shows her you care. Along with space comes privacy. If your tween wants to be alone, let her do that. She may just be doing homework. She may also want to talk to her friends on the phone, read a book, or even just daydream. No matter what she wants to do, as long it isn't harmful to herself or others, give her room to make her own decisions. Don't walk into her room checking up every two minutes and don't spy on her conversations or read her diary. When she confides in you, don't tell others - especially her friends - about the conversations. This respect for privacy shows her you care and keeps that parent-child bond going strong. As your child grows, the relationship will change but the love stays. Tweens need space in order to learn and grow. Just because he doesn't want to spend every waking moment with you, it doesn't change his love for you. It's healthy for tweens to have independence with many choices and aspects of life. It's part of preparation for life when they finally get out on their own later in life. Forcing your tween to be with you every moment and share every single secret and moment with you can cause tension and rebellion. But giving them the space they need can help keep a strong and healthy relationship. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network Eco-Friendly Parenting Tips for Going to the Park by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  Image (c) Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Going to the park with the kids is fun. But it also can be bad for the environment if you aren't careful. I try my best to teach my kids greener ways to do everything, including going to the park. What's greener than the park? That may sound true in retrospect, but waste and mistreatment makes it not so green. So, how do you green your park trips?
Pack a Green Lunch When packing lunch for the park, be cautious of the potential waste. Whenever possible, avoid disposable items and go for reusable, BPA free, earth-friendly containers and dishes. If you absolutely must use disposable, at least use something biodegradable or recyclable. Paper, plastic, and styrofoam disposable dinnerware and drinkware may seem easier. But at what cost? These items are often non-biodegradable and sit in landfills destroying the earth. Do you know how many trees are cut down and how many toxic chemicals are emitted into the air to create these items? The most green lunch would likely be made of 100% natural and locally grown foods, not be packaged in a container, and be fully consumed with nothing left over. However, some people will not comply out of convenience. Therefore, the above tips will help reduce some of the waste. Reduce Waste at the Park In line with creating less waste, teach your kids not to litter at the park. Anything you bring with you should go home with you. If it's trash, it goes in the proper receptacle. If it's recyclable, same thing. Some parks do not have a recycle bin. In that case, take it home with you and recycle it yourself. Keeping the park clean helps foster a healthy environment, which in turn is good for the kids. Avoid bringing unnecessary items to the park with you. That includes lunch items. But it also includes toys and other entertainment items. If the kids color at the park, don't let their papers litter the ground. If they blow bubbles, be sure the bottles and wands are taken home for rinse and reuse or recycling. Visit Condo Blues for an eco-friendly bubble recipe. In addition to reducing your own waste when at the park with the kids, you can help combat the problem further. Help clean up other people's waste from the park. Go through the same routine you would with your own trash. Dispose of it properly, collecting recyclable items or placing them in receptacles if available. Avoid Chemicals Perfumes, products for the car, cleaning supplies, and even some toys (such as commercially sold bubbles) contain chemicals. These chemicals can pollute the park. Not only does this destroy the plants, but think of the animals that live in the park. It can be hazardous to their health and even deadly. If you absolutely must use some of these products, at least go for an all-natural green version. Impact of Greening the Park Routine You may not think one family cleaning up after themselves and others at the park can make a difference. Think again. How many times do you visit the park in a year? How much waste could be accrued in that time period if not picked up. In two years? Five? Looking at the big picture can help illustrate how much impact you and the kids could have on he environment. It's your choice whether to make that impact negative or positive. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff  "But Jenny's mom lets her do that." The problem? Jenny is 16 and your daughter is only 11. What happens when tweens think they are equivalent to teens? It's very common since kids between 8-12 years of age are able to do many things on their own. Because they can physically act upon things and make choices, many tweens tend to think this means they should be allowed. The problem with this is that there are certain things they simply should not be doing until they are older.
Older siblings can play a role both directly and indirectly. Observing an older sister or brother with more privileges may seem unfair to your tween. Be sure your older kids aren't teasing about their extra privileges. It's also important to make it clear that there are certain age requirements, depending on each new venture in life. If you have more than one child, you need to be consistent with the age a child must be before being allowed to do certain things, such as dating, babysitting, and handling other responsibilities. Kids with younger siblings may mature quickly. Tweens will naturally look up to their teen siblings. Most kids want to be just like their big sister or big brother. This is a healthy phenomenon and can help kids learn important life lessons. But it can also backfire at times. Sometimes kids want to be entirely too much like their older siblings and mature faster than we'd like them to. To prevent this from happening, I try to make sure each of my kids has their own separate interests they pursue. Sometimes the distraction of their own unique activities can deter thoughts of participating in things meant for the older kids. Peer pressure may be to blame. Not all parents agree on what is and isn't appropriate at various ages and stages. When tweens see their friends doing things they cannot do, they suddenly want to do them even more. Peer pressure is often a steady battle throughout the tween and teenage years. To help combat it as much as possible, parents can teach their tweens the value of self-worth and how important it is to remain true to oneself. Teaching tweens to make smart choices based on analysis, rather than quick-thinking and pressure to be like everyone else, is important. Observing child stars may give off mixed messages. Watching the way stars behave on television, in movies, and even in real life can give kids a clouded perception of what life should be like. Naturally, they will want to have and do the things they see in these kids. As a parent, it's important to let kids know the difference between reality and film. It's also important they know the difference between a star's life and an everyday person's life. Let them know that the fraction of star's lives we see is not always a good indicator of how they actually live. Some things could be skewed for ratings, photos can be airbrushed, and we don't see how they live behind closed doors. Kids need to know that behind all the glamor, stars are just people, like you and me. Your tween likely looks up to you. Just as your tween may look up to older siblings and friends, he also may look up to you. Obviously, your tween cannot do everything that you do. However, that may not stop her from wanting to. You can allow your tween to participate in certain things with you and let him know why he cannot do the others. For instance, let him wear your clothes if they fit. Take him to work on "Take Your Kids to Work Day". Have Mom and Daughter or Dad and Son days. At the same time, encourage your tween to be himself as well. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image (C) Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Is your tween constantly trying to boss around younger siblings, even at times questioning your own methods? Kids between the ages of 8 and 12 are going through huge transitions and this is a very possible scenario in households with more than one child. When my tween has moments like this, I stop and think what could be the root of the problem. One important point to remember is that most kids will test parents in this way at least once. It doesn't mean you are doing anything wrong. Like any other issue that arises, it gives you a chance to reevaluate things and change them as necessary.
Your tween wants to be like you. It's possible that your tween is bossing the younger kids around because you've been a great example. She may look up to you and simply be mimicking your own behavior. This can be a sign that you have been a good example that she wants to follow. At this age, the parent should still be supervising, but the tween can be given some extra responsibilities. Allow your tween to facilitate activities and look out for the welfare of her brothers and sisters. But do not allow her to discipline them. Your tween has too much responsibility. Having extra responsibility can sometimes be a good thing, as it prepares tweens for babysitting in the future and just life in general. But it also can be a bad thing if your tween is overstepping your boundaries. It's perfectly fine to allow your tween some growing room. But don't let him take it so far that he believes his siblings have to listen to his every word. If you catch your tween trying to boss around brothers and sisters in matters where he shouldn't be, you need to act immediately to rectify it early. Your tween knows she is older. Trying to take charge can just be a natural instinct as a child grows older. It is particularly present in tweens with younger siblings. This is just the natural order of things. If the manner in which your tween outranks siblings is not significant, there is probably no need for concern. It can actually be good for kids to have an extra reminder for simple things. But if you see your tween take advantage, explain to her when it is and is not appropriate to correct siblings. She's practicing for the future. Your tween may have natural parental instincts and is acting them out on siblings. There is nothing wrong with this, so long as it isn't hurting anyone or overstepping boundaries. This is how kids learn to be good parents when they grow up. Use this as an opportunity to teach your tween about proper parenting techniques, within reason. Helping with dinner, reading to the younger kids, helping feed the baby, preventing fellow siblings from arguing, and similar activities are great ways for your tween to participate. Just be sure she knows that certain decisions are still up to you. Take a look at your own habits. Many times, it will just be a natural part of growing up. But sometimes tweens will act this way because of the behavior of the parents. If you let your tween take over one too many times, she will start acting like she's the parent. Instinct takes over and it can be hard to break this habit once it starts. Ideally, you can catch it before it gets out of hand. Otherwise, it will take some work to let your tween know what her true responsibilities are and are not. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network |
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Lyn Lomasi is founder and owner of the Brand Shamans network. She is your brand healing, soul healing, marketing & content superhero to the rescue! Running a network of websites, tackling deadlines single-handedly, and coaching fellow writers, brands, & entrepreneurs to be thought leaders is her top priority.
While rescuing civilians from boring content and brands, this awesomely crazy family conquers the world, managing Intent-sive Nature while going on Upstream Parenting adventures & lessons, sometimes in an RV. They strive to cuddle with lions and giraffes. Until then, they settle for rescue dogs and cats. By supporting us, you support a single parent, healer, and minority small business that donates to and/or stands for several causes, including homeless pets, homeless people, trans youth, equality, helping starving artists, and more! A portion of all proceeds from our all-inclusive store, Intent-sive Nature goes toward worthy causes. For guidance in the world of freelance writing or for advice on her specialty topics, Ask Lyn. Archives
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