Many parents wait eagerly for those first words, for more fluid communication with their child, and for those early adorable phrases and mispronunciations. Along with that eagerness can come some concern. Is my child learning to speak and communicate at a typical pace? There are general guidelines that will help you to identify possible concerns, but remember to review your …
How to Encourage Your Young Child to Become an Enthusiastic Early Reader
Long after your child has abandoned truck racing and tea parties, one activity from their childhood will linger on into adulthood. Reading is an activity which will follow your child throughout her life, whether she’s a self-motivated bookworm who devours story after story as she grows older, or whether she uses reading as a tool which opens new doors to …
The “Why” Behind “Why” Questions and Tips for Answering Them
Why is the sky blue? Why can’t the cat talk? Why do I have to go to bed? If you have a toddler or preschooler, chances are that you are confronted with “why” questions throughout your day, in a variety of situations. These types of inquiries are a normal part of your young child’s development as she learns more about …
Three STEM Activities That Will Captivate Your Child
In order to complement the kind of STEM learning that your children are engaging in at childcare each week, you can acquire a few common supplies and conduct some experiments at home with your preschooler or toddler that will teach them some fascinating basics about science, technology, engineering, and math. These activities are sure to be both fun and educational. …
Building Positive Relationships with Your Child’s Teachers: 7 Ways to Feel Connected
Your child’s daycare providers are with them through thick and thin. When you leave your infant in the hands of a childcare provider, or kiss your toddler goodbye as he rushes off to greet his teachers, you’re participating in a collaborative relationship that is crucial to your child’s development and wellbeing. Building a great relationship with your child’s teachers will …
Making the Leap from Crib to Bed: 7 Tips for a Smooth Transition
When your toddler finally throws one leg over the side of her crib and hurls herself over the edge, running to greet you in the middle of the night, you’ll know that another milestone is upon you. Transitioning from an enclosed crib to a toddler rail, toddler bed, or twin, means a big upheaval for you and for your child. …
Create Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts with Your Young Child
If you host Thanksgiving at your home, you may think of new ways to enhance your guests’ experience each year. From new recipes to interesting décor, every host likes to innovate every once in a while. This year, get your young child in on the action by asking him to create Thanksgiving arts and crafts with you. Preschoolers and even …
Get Prepared for Daycare: What to Pack For Your Child
Enrolling your child in center-based care means a big change in your life and the life of your child! To make the transition easier, you’ll want to show up on the first day with all of the supplies your child will need on a daily basis to ensure his comfort, sense of security, and happiness. Two changes of clothes. Many …
Five Times When Ignoring Toddler or Preschooler Behavior is the Best Approach
You’ve had a long day. Your nerves are raw. And your child is insisting on pulling out all of the behaviors that grate on you the most. You may be tempted to snap or scold, but responding in a negative manner may only encourage them further. Try ignoring the behavior instead, to put a quick end to the following five …
Local, Kid-Friendly Outdoor Activities That Are Fun for Adults, Too!
As fun as days at the beach and afternoons at the playground can be, many families are in search of outdoor activities with a little something that sets them apart. Whether you love being on the water, enjoy more of an urban flourish, or enjoy some adventure, South Florida has plenty of activities for your entire family. Watersports are a …