Spending time at the beach this summer? Yay! Me too…but when it’s time to pack up and go home, all that sunblock you slathered on your child is causing the sand to stick to his skin. Here’s a quick fix: Baby Powder*
Pour a little on the area where sand is sticking, and it will absorb any moisture causing the sand to easily brush off. It works like a charm!
*Remember to use a cornstarch based powder since talcum powder is carcinogenic, can lead to pneumonia and has been linked to asthma in children.
It’s summertime and most of us are spending more time outdoors. There are some places however that are way too hot for outdoor activities, so you’re planning to be inside for at least 2 months. Continue reading Detox Your Indoor Air→
So on those days where you feel like a terrible mother, or simply have no idea what else to do with your children, just do one of these things!
I find myself always trying to plan the perfect activity, attend group classes and make sure my toddler is not getting bored, when the reality is that simpler is probably better. He’d rather go outside and stare at bugs or run his fingers through the sand than go to a scheduled class of any kind ANY day of the week. And believe me- I’ve tried all of the classes from baby massage and developmental movements to music and dance.
The last time I shelled out $36 for a drop-in art class I vowed it would be my last. I tried for 18 months to get him to take part in a class, when getting some construction paper and finger paints out at home is all he really needs. Of course, if your child likes these things, then by all means take part! But I am speaking as much to myself as to other moms who have children with the same personality type…analyze your child and discover his or her unique “bent.” Don’t feel pressured to sign up for lessons or playgroups or force your child into activities you (I) think he should enjoy, when all he really wants to do is play outside. I’ve learned my lesson.
The Ant Detective...doesn't matter what else is going on- I must stop to look at BUGS!
Just thought you’d like to know how the 8 hour flight went with the new trick I learned…it couldn’t have gone better! He was an absolute prince. He only slept about 2 hours ( I knew the 3 hour nap was too much to ask for) but while he was awake he was very excited to open his new gifts one by one, and played with each for quite a long time.
I felt a little awkward when the guy in the seat next to me said, “another present?” as I pulled out his 3rd one..I hadn’t thought about how this might look to others. In that moment this feeling washed over me that I was really spoiling my child. But that only lasted for about 1 second as I saw the joy on his face and remembered my mantras of not worrying what others think about the way I parent, and especially not explaining myself or making excuses for my child. So I just smiled and said to him, “Hey- as long as he’s happy the rest of us will be too!” Little did he know that I had 5 more in my bag that we didn’t need! I’ll be saving those for our next flight.
and 
all children should have 3 types of play every single day.
