Today my 21 month old son jolted me into reality about how aware he is of EVERYTHING around him and how much he is taking in and learning, even if it’s something he rarely sees strangers doing on the street.
He picked up a cigarette butt off the ground, held it up to me and said, “Mommy?” and then made a puffing/blowing gesture.
I had no idea he could be this observant so soon. He truly is learning every second of every day. May this be (yet another) reminder to me that little eyes are watching my every move…
PS- I was actually more horrified that he knew what to do with a cigarette than the fact that he picked up the nasty cig butt off the ground!
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→
My son had his first popsicle recently and he’s hooked!
Of course buying them from a street cart that uses all organic ingredients isn’t always going to be possible, so it’s time for me to break out the recipes I used while I was pregnant and ROASTING in the NYC heat. Continue reading BPA-Free Popsicle Molds→
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!
and 
all children should have 3 types of play every single day.
