Search Results for: encouragement
5 Ways to Make a Potty Training Chart
One of the most popular tools to use during potty training–besides the potty itself–is a potty training chart. A potty training chart provides a concrete way for you and your child to track potty training progress. You will want to create a chart that reflects your specific goals and methods for potty training. Post the chart near the potty for easy reference.
Life Interrupted
By Guest Blogger Melanie Kramer I must admit, writing this Blog post was cathartic, liberating and at the same time overcast with a shadow of somberness. The last six years have been a struggle coming to terms with my decision to give up a painting career that I loved dearly, to stay home and raise my children. And as I reflect back today, I cant help but think, Was this the best decision for me? For my kids? Why do I feel like I am on the road to nowhere?
How to a Potty Train a Toddler
Potty training a toddler requires patience and consistency. Factors that will influence potty training success should be considered before the process begins. The age of the toddler is one small part of the process. Toddlers reach potty training readiness at different ages, so other factors may be more important. Your toddler’s maturity level, interest in using the potty, physical development, ability to stay dry and ability to follow directions contribute to the success of toilet training. Follow your toddler’s lead, paying close attention to his reactions to your guidance.
List of Fun Exercises for Kids
Kids are naturally active and do not need much encouragement to get up and move. Keep them interested in physical activity with fun exercises that are also appropriate for their physical skill level, intellectual level and maturity level. Encourage exercises which involve movement, balance, coordination and teamwork. Running, walking and bike riding are exercises which kids learn early and are not quickly (if ever) outgrown. Other exercises including jumping rope or playing hopscotch will be abandoned by older children who want to be seen as mature and not as babies. All children can learn how to do sit-ups and push-ups, to build strength and stamina. Keep these activities as warm up exercises for older children, and encourage them to increase their stamina by adding more repetitions.
Social & Emotional Development in Preschoolers
Preschoolers are a whirlwind of energy and imagination. One minute she can impress you with her cooperative behavior only to frustrate you the next by having a meltdown at the mall. The social and emotional development of 3- and 4-year-olds transitioning from toddlers into school-age children is as important as her cognitive and physical development. According to a survey of kindergarten teachers by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the most important factors in school readiness are health, communication skills, enthusiasm/curiosity, turn-taking and attention span. The National Scientific Council on the Developing Child states that the core features of emotional development include the ability to identify and express his own feelings properly as well as empathize with others. The tendency for parents and preschool teachers to push the basics (ABC’s, counting, shapes, colors) can sometimes cause socio-emotional skills to be overlooked.