The Toddler Personality – A Multifacted Gem

Have you ever simply sat back and watched as your toddler interacted with other people? I had several opportunities to do that today, and I really enjoyed it. From the moment that they are born, our children reveal to us a little bit more each day about who they are. Spending time around other people enables your toddler to show you different facets of his personality than he does when he’s at home with you. For example, I took Dylan to story time at our local library this morning. Two of his friends were there too, and they all love … Continue reading

Dylan Meets A Toad

Yesterday, Dylan had an encounter of the toad kind. He has always been captivated by animals and he gets very excited when he sees animals in our yard. Every time he sees a chipmunk, bird, butterfly, or other critter he runs towards it and says “Ninin hold?” Ninin is the way that he pronounces his name, and he so wants to hold every animal he sees. I have often explained that the animals run away from him because they do not know that he is a nice boy. I don’t have the heart to tell him that the animals are … Continue reading

Fresh Ideas For Outdoor Play

Even the most outdoorsy kids sometimes need suggestions for new ways to enjoy being outside. The next time boredom strikes when you are playing outside with your toddler, suggest one of these fun activities. You may just discover a new favorite outdoor activity. Sometimes, the best way to mix things up outside is to do things outdoors that you would normally do indoors. If it is lunch time, why not spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the lawn. Reading is another great indoor activity that can easily be enjoyed outdoors. If your child enjoys having tea parties … Continue reading

Mama’s Got The Bedtime Blues

Many parents of toddlers have trouble with bedtime. Bedtime battles come and go throughout toddlerhood, and it can be the most trying time of day. By a certain time in the evening, you are ready for your toddler to go to bed – especially if he or she did not take a nap earlier in the day. Dylan has been pretty good about bedtime for the last month or so. I start to set the stage for bedtime by having dinner on the table by seven each night – or as close to seven as possible. If Dylan did not … Continue reading