Posts tagged positive parenting
What’s More Important: Nature or Nurture?
When Baby first arrives, most of us spend a lot of time just looking, thoughtfully, at our newborn and wondering “Who are you going to look like?” or more importantly, “Who are you going to act like?” We definitely spend a fair amount of time wondering and waiting for our babies to show us who they are. Let’s just say we let nature reveal itself.
It doesn’t take long before we start thinking more about our plans for Baby rather than Baby’s designs on us. We make plans for our personal contributions to Baby’s self-concept, social development, and learning. Some parents I have interviewed have very specific goals in mind for their infants (Brown University—Class of 2030!), while others are more general (good, kind, generous), or religious (at one with God, faithful to morals and ethics). (more…)
New Year’s Revolutions
A few years ago, I opened a book and out fell my New Year’s Resolutions from decades past. I looked at it and laughed. I was getting ready to write many of the same resolutions all over again. The funniest—because I have now deemed it impossible to achieve unless I was critically ill, was to “weigh an honest 115 pounds.” Those days are long gone; given up as a lie even on my driver’s license. All the other things on the list were similarly honorable aspirations, especially, “pay more attention to my husband.” He says he is still waiting for the “Year of THE MAN,” pointing to himself, of course.
My sister Shelley, the pragmatic type, laughed when I told her about my discovery. (more…)
Baby Comparisons: Infancy Is Not a Contest!
I attended a lecture last week that was very interesting. It was given by Michael Thompson, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist who has written several parenting books, including The Pressured Child, the main theme of the meeting. While Dr. Thompson is not an infant specialist, he made a closing remark that I think is relevant for parents at any stage: “Your child is on his or her own journey, not yours.” He urged parents to do two things:
- Let your children have a childhood.
- Don’t use your child’s life as a way of proving your own effectiveness as an adult.
“Easier said than done,” I thought. After all, parenthood is also a journey, and we are learning as we go.
Besides, new parents should get a reprieve for their ego-involvement during Baby’s first year or so of life; it is the parent’s responsibility to guide, protect, and yes, More >
Summertime Fun with Your Little One
Memorial Day is upon us, which means that summer is officially on our radar! When thinking of summer a few things come to mind: warmer weather, ‘longer’ days, barbeques, fireflies, and much more. But one of the best parts of summer is the fun in the sun you have with your little one! The pool and beach are all great activities, but here are some additional ideas to keep good times rolling all summer long!
Have a Picnic
Gather a basket together with yummy snacks, plenty of water and a bunch toys for the kids, and hit the road to a local park or lake! Don’t forget to bring a few blankets to set up your summer picnic grounds for the family. It’s a great opportunity to take some photos of baby enjoying the warmer weather and will give you mementos that will last forever!
Go to a County/State Fair
You may need a stroller, but taking More >
Celebrate Mother’s Day with These Fun Ideas
It’s that time of year again! Mother’s Day is right around the corner and it’s time to get into the spirit of the holiday. Celebrating moms is fun for the whole family, so why not make it extra special this year? Whether this is your first time celebrating Mother’s Day, you’re pregnant and anticipating the celebration, or if you’re a Mother’s Day veteran, check out these suggestions for a fun-filled day all for moms.
- Breakfast in Bed
Take the morning off and enjoy breakfast in bed. If this is something you enjoy, don’t be afraid to hint to your spouse and little ones that this would be a fun tradition to start in your family. Any time mom feels special is good for the soul of the family too!
- A Picture Frame
Moms can never have too many pictures of their pregnant belly or cute face of their little ones, right? Getting
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Tips for a Happy Baby
When you see your little one smile or hear their giggle, you can’t help but to smile and laugh along. Happiness is contagious and in honor of our Year of the Happy Baby, here are some great tips to keep you and your little one smiling from ear to ear!
Sleep
Make sure your little one gets enough sleep. It increases baby’s immune system, enabling them to fight off colds and bugs. In addition, a good night’s sleep allows your little one to enjoy the day more and helps fight off mid-day crankiness. Did you know babies need up to 18 hours of sleep a day?
Food
Healthy food equals healthy babies, and healthy babies are happy babies! Feed your little one nutritious formula or breast milk to help nurture their growth. Before feeding your little one, be sure to test the food’s temperature so you know it’s not too hot. Make mealtime fun by More >
