In today's tech-savvy world, screens are everywhere - from smartphones and tablets to computers and televisions. For parents of toddlers, navigating the complexities of screen time can be a daunting task. How much is too much? What are the potential risks and benefits? How can we strike a balance between allowing our children to explore technology and ensuring they engage in other important activities for their development? Let's delve into the digital dilemma of screen time for toddlers.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for toddlers aged 18 months to 2 years to high-quality programming, with a maximum of one hour per day. For children aged 2 to 5 years, screen time should be limited to one hour per day of high-quality programming, with caregivers co-viewing and engaging with their child. These guidelines are based on research that suggests excessive screen time during early childhood may have negative effects on development, including delays in language and social skills.
So how can parents navigate screen time responsibly for their toddlers? One important aspect to consider is content. Not all screen time is created equal, and it is crucial to prioritize high-quality, educational programming that is age-appropriate and engaging. Look for programs that promote learning, stimulate creativity, and encourage social interaction.
Another key factor to consider is the context in which screen time is used. Co-viewing with your child and engaging in discussions about what they are watching can enhance the learning experience and foster meaningful interactions. Setting limits and boundaries around screen time, such as designated "screen-free" zones and times, can also help establish a healthy balance.
It is also important to consider the potential risks of excessive screen time, such as sedentary behavior, disrupted sleep patterns, and reduced time for hands-on exploration and social interaction. Encouraging physical activity, outdoor play, and interactive play with toys and books can help offset the negative effects of screen time.
As with any aspect of parenting, it is essential to trust your instincts and know your child's unique needs and preferences. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. By being mindful of the amount and quality of screen time your child is exposed to, and by fostering a well-rounded environment that includes a variety of stimulating activities, you can help your toddler navigate the digital world in a healthy and balanced way.

​As caregivers, educators, or parents, we are all too familiar with unexpected behaviors that can disrupt routines and cause distress. From tantrums and meltdowns to attention-seeking behaviors, dealing with these challenging moments can be overwhelming and draining. But what if there was a simple yet effective strategy that could help address these unexpected behaviors in a positive and proactive way? Enter planned ignoring. Planned ignoring is a deliberate strategy that involves purposefully ignoring certain unwanted behaviors in order to reduce their frequency or intensity. While it may seem counterintuitive to turn a blind eye to disruptive behavior, planned ignoring can be a powerful tool for shaping positive behavior and promoting positive attention-seeking strategies. One of the key principles of planned ignoring is to withhold attention or reactions to behaviors that are attention-seeking or otherwise reinforcing for the individual. By not engaging with the behavior, the individual receives the message that the behavior is not effective in achieving the desired outcome, and may be more inclined to try alternative, more positive strategies for gaining attention or meeting their needs. It is important to note that planned ignoring should be used selectively and with care. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be appropriate for all situations or individuals. Before implementing planned ignoring, it is essential to consider factors such as safety, individual needs, and the underlying reasons for the behavior. When using planned ignoring, it is important to have a clear plan in place. This may involve setting specific criteria for when and how to implement the strategy, as well as identifying alternative, more positive behaviors to reinforce. Consistency and follow-through are also key components of effective planned ignoring. It is also important to remember that planned ignoring should be used in conjunction with other positive behavior support strategies and interventions. In some cases, a more comprehensive approach may be necessary to address underlying sensory, emotional, or other needs contributing to the behavior.  Planned ignoring can be a valuable strategy for addressing unexpected behaviors in a proactive and positive way. By understanding the principles of planned ignoring and implementing it thoughtfully and consistently, caregivers and educators can help promote positive behavior and support the development of more adaptive coping strategies.
check out my workshop on becoming a Sensory Detective

Reflecting upon our most recent family vacation, I will acknowledge that traveling with a toddler can be challenging especially long flights.  While on vacation, we were asked why we bring our toddler.  Selfishly I love to travel and when we had our daughter, I did not want to compromise and I wanted that part of my life to continue.  However, I have seen the benefits that traveling to new and distant places can have on her growth and development.

Traveling with kids can be an enriching and unforgettable experience for the whole family. While it may come with its challenges, the benefits far outweigh the obstacles. From fostering a sense of curiosity and adventure to creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds, here are some of the wonderful advantages of hitting the road with your little ones:
​
1. Cultural Immersion and Education:Traveling provides children with valuable opportunities to learn about different cultures, languages, and traditions firsthand. Exploring new destinations exposes them to diverse ways of life, broadening their perspectives and fostering cultural sensitivity from an early age.

2. Learning Through Experience:Traveling is an immersive form of education that goes beyond the classroom. Children can touch, see, smell, taste, and hear the world around them, engaging their senses and igniting their curiosity. Whether it's discovering ancient ruins, tasting local cuisine, or interacting with wildlife, each experience becomes a valuable lesson.

3. Building Confidence and Independence:Navigating unfamiliar environments and situations helps children develop confidence and independence. From ordering food in a foreign language to finding their way around a new city, each small achievement boosts their self-esteem and resilience, empowering them to tackle challenges with courage.

4. Creating Lasting Memories:Family vacations create cherished memories that last a lifetime. From building sandcastles on the beach to watching the sunset over majestic mountains, these shared experiences create a bond that strengthens family ties and provides a treasure trove of stories to reminisce about for years to come.

5. Quality Family Time:Traveling allows families to escape the distractions of everyday life and spend quality time together. Whether it's playing games during a long car ride, sharing meals around a table, or exploring new destinations hand in hand, these shared experiences deepen connections and create a sense of belonging.

6. Promoting Adaptability and Resilience:Traveling often involves navigating unexpected challenges, such as flight delays, language barriers, or changes in itinerary. These experiences teach children the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving, skills that are invaluable in an ever-changing world.

7. Encouraging Environmental Stewardship:Experiencing the natural beauty of different landscapes inspires a love and appreciation for the environment. Whether it's snorkeling in coral reefs, hiking through national parks, or visiting conservation centers, children develop a sense of responsibility towards protecting our planet for future generations.

8. Creating Global Citizens:By exposing children to diverse cultures and perspectives, traveling fosters empathy, tolerance, and understanding. It instills a sense of global citizenship, encouraging children to become compassionate and respectful members of a multicultural world.

Conclusion:Traveling with kids is more than just a vacation—it's a transformative journey filled with discovery, learning, and growth. From expanding their horizons to strengthening family bonds, the benefits of exploring the world together are immeasurable. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let the joyous journey begin!

And when you return, getting back on a sleep schedule is imperative.
Shout out to Milk & Honey who plans our family friendly trips

Engaging children in the kitchen is a fantastic way to promote a variety of skills, including fine and gross motor skills, sensory exploration, math concepts, and an appreciation for healthy eating. Here are some cooking activities that you can do with children to make the kitchen a fun and educational space:

Simple No-Bake Recipes:

• Start with no-bake recipes like fruit salads, yogurt parfaits, or energy bites. These recipes are easy, safe, and allow children to practice measuring and mixing.

Make-Your-Own Pizza Night:

• Provide a variety of toppings and let each child create their own pizza. This activity encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and decision-making.

Cookie Decorating:

• Bake a batch of cookies and set up a decorating station with different colored icing, sprinkles, and edible decorations. This promotes creativity and fine motor coordination.

Vegetable and Fruit Kabobs:

• Let children create their own kabobs using colorful fruits and vegetables. This activity enhances fine motor skills and introduces healthy eating habits.

Pasta Art:

• Cook different types of pasta and let children create artwork by gluing the pasta onto paper. This combines a cooking element with a creative art project.

Homemade Trail Mix:

• Provide a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and other snacks. Let children mix and match ingredients to create their own personalized trail mix. This activity teaches about portioning and healthy snacking.

Cooking Shapes:

• Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from sandwiches, fruits, or pancakes. This activity enhances fine motor skills and introduces basic shapes.

Homemade Playdough:

• Make playdough from scratch using a simple recipe. Children can participate in measuring and mixing while also enjoying sensory play.

Kitchen Science Experiments:

• Conduct simple kitchen science experiments, such as watching bread rise, observing vegetables change color when cooked, or exploring the effects of mixing different ingredients.

Counting and Measuring:

• Involve children in measuring ingredients, counting the number of scoops, or sorting items. This integrates math concepts into cooking activities.

Herb Garden:

• Plant herbs in small pots and let children take care of them. They can use these herbs in recipes, and caring for plants teaches responsibility.

Kitchen Cleanup:

• Teach children the importance of cleaning up after cooking. This includes washing dishes, wiping surfaces, and putting away ingredients. It instills a sense of responsibility and organization.

​
Always ensure that cooking activities are age-appropriate, and supervise children closely, especially around hot surfaces and sharp tools. Cooking together not only provides valuable life skills but also creates lasting memories and fosters a love for food and creativity in the kitchen.

Introducing a straw to your baby can be an exciting and beneficial step in their development, as it encourages different oral motor skills and aids in the transition to sippy cups and regular cups. Typically, you can start introducing a straw around 6 to 9 months of age, but every baby is unique, and it's essential to observe their readiness for this skill. Here are some guidelines on when and how to introduce a straw, along with activities to promote straw drinking:

When to Introduce a Straw:

1. Around 6-9 Months: Start offering a straw to your baby when they begin to show an interest in holding objects and bringing them to their mouths.
2. Signs of Readiness: Look for signs that your baby is ready for straw drinking, such as good head control, ability to sit with support, and showing interest in reaching for objects.

10 Activities to Promote Straw Drinking
​
Straw Introduction:

• Begin by using a soft, flexible straw for easier manipulation. You can find baby-friendly straw cups designed for this purpose.
• Allow your baby to explore the straw with their hands and mouth before introducing liquids.

Piping liquids:

• Fill the straw with a small amount of breast milk, formula, or water.  Hold your finger on one end of the straw.
• Gently place the straw in your baby's mouth and encourage them to suck. Initially, you may need to gently squeeze the liquid into their mouth to help them understand the concept.

Use a Straw Cup:

• Transition to a straw cup designed for infants. Look for cups with spill-proof straw designs to minimize mess.
• Hold the cup for your baby initially, gradually encouraging them to hold it themselves.

Temperature Considerations:

• Ensure the liquid is at a suitable temperature, not too hot or too cold, to make the experience comfortable for your baby.

Model Straw Drinking:

• Demonstrate straw drinking by taking sips from a straw cup yourself. Babies often learn by watching and imitating.

Gradual Progression:

• Begin with a small amount of liquid and gradually increase as your baby becomes more comfortable with straw drinking.

Positive Reinforcement:

• Celebrate and praise your baby when they successfully take sips from the straw. Positive reinforcement creates a positive association with the new skill.

Experiment with Flavors:

• Introduce different flavors to make straw drinking more interesting. You can try diluted fruit juices (if age-appropriate) or flavored water.

Honey Bear Feeders:

• This is a specialize cup that facilitates straw drinking.  You squeeze the cup and the liquid is piped into the straw.  Follow the link at the end of the blog for more information and where to find them.

Sensory-Friendly Valentine's Day Cards:
​
​Provide various textures and materials for creating Valentine's Day cards. Include items like fabric, stickers, buttons, or textured paper to cater to different sensory preferences.

Sensory Bins with a Valentine's Twist:

​Create a Valentine-themed sensory bin with materials that appeal to different senses. Include items like heart-shaped beads, scented playdough, or textured fabrics.

Valentine's Day Sensory Bottles:

​Create sensory bottles filled with materials like glitter, heart-shaped confetti, or colored water. These bottles provide visual and tactile stimulation.

Encouraging crawling over scooting involves creating an environment that stimulates a baby's curiosity and motivates them to explore through crawling movements. Here are some tips to promote crawling:
1. Interactive Crawling Tunnels:

• Set up soft, baby-friendly crawling tunnels. Place toys at the end of the tunnel to entice your baby to crawl through. This creates an engaging and stimulating environment for movement.

2. Crawling Races:

• Create a fun crawling race by placing toys or desirable objects a short distance away. Encourage your baby to crawl towards these items, turning it into a playful and motivating activity.

3. Encourage Cross-Crawling Movements:

• Support your baby in a crawling position and encourage them to move one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously. This cross-crawling movement helps develop coordination and balance.

4. Incorporate Music:

• Play lively music and move to the beat with your baby. The rhythmic sounds can motivate them to crawl and explore the space around them.

5. Crawl Together:

• Get down on the floor and crawl alongside your baby. Having you as a crawling companion can inspire them to imitate your movements and encourage independent crawling.

6. Use Textured Mats:

• Place textured mats or blankets on the floor. The tactile stimulation can encourage babies to explore and move around, promoting crawling over sitting.

7. Crawling Through Limbo:

• Set up a makeshift limbo bar using a soft object such as a scarf or a cushion. Encourage your baby to crawl under the bar, adding an element of challenge and excitement.

8. Rolling Ball Play:

• Roll a soft ball just out of your baby's reach and encourage them to crawl towards it. The visual and tactile appeal of the ball can motivate crawling movements.

9.  Practice Stairs

• With close supervision, let your baby explore climbing stairs.  It is not possible to scoot upstairs and climbing stairs mimics crawling on the floor.

10.  Mirror Crawling Play:

• Place a large, baby-safe mirror horizontally on the floor. This encourages your baby to crawl towards their reflection, combining visual stimulation with the desire for exploration

While both scooting and crawling are ways for babies to explore their environment and develop mobility, there are certain advantages to promoting crawling over scooting. Crawling is considered a crucial developmental milestone that offers a range of physical, cognitive, and sensory benefits. Here are some reasons why encouraging crawling is often preferred:
1. Physical Development:

• Muscle Strength: Crawling engages a variety of muscle groups, including the core, arms, and legs. This helps in building strength, coordination, and motor skills.
• Balance and Coordination: Crawling involves coordinating movements on both sides of the body, promoting better balance and coordination.

2. Cognitive Development:

• Spatial Awareness: Crawling allows babies to explore their surroundings in a three-dimensional way, enhancing spatial awareness and perception.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Crawling involves navigating around obstacles, encouraging problem-solving skills as babies learn to maneuver through their environment.

3. Sensory Development:

• Tactile Exploration: Crawling encourages tactile exploration as babies use their hands and fingers to touch different surfaces.
• Visual Stimulation: Crawling provides opportunities for visual exploration as babies move through various spaces, promoting visual tracking and depth perception.

4. Independence and Confidence:

• Independence: Crawling is a more independent form of movement that allows babies to explore freely without relying on being carried or scooting.
• Confidence Building: Successfully crawling and exploring the environment contributes to a baby's sense of confidence and autonomy.

5. Speech and Language Development:

• Integration with Speech: The cross-lateral movements involved in crawling are linked to the development of language skills. Crawling helps integrate both hemispheres of the brain, potentially supporting later speech and language development.

6. Social Interaction:

• Interacting with Peers: Crawling facilitates interaction with peers during playdates and baby groups, fostering social skills and the ability to engage with others.

7. Preventing Developmental Delays:

• Motor Skill Milestone: Crawling is considered a motor skill milestone, and it may be a concern if a baby consistently avoids crawling or other developmental stages.

8. Preventing Asymmetrical Movement Patterns:

• Encouraging Symmetry: Crawling encourages a symmetrical movement pattern, helping prevent the development of asymmetries or favoring one side of the body.

While scooting is a natural and sometimes preferred method of movement for certain babies, especially those who find it more efficient, it's beneficial to provide opportunities for crawling to ensure a well-rounded and comprehensive development. If you have concerns about your baby's motor development, it's always advisable to consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric developmental specialist for personalized guidance.

Introducing solid foods to a baby is an exciting and important milestone in their development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends introducing solid foods around 6 months of age, as this is when most babies are developmentally ready. However, every baby is unique, and it's crucial to watch for signs of readiness before starting solids. Here's a step-by-step guide on how and when to introduce solid foods to your baby:
Signs of Readiness:

1. Head Control:
   
   • Your baby should be able to hold their head steady and sit upright with support.
2. Loss of Tongue Thrust Reflex:
   
   • Babies typically have a natural reflex that pushes food out of their mouths with their tongues. When this reflex diminishes, it's a sign that they may be ready for solids.
3. Interest in Food:
   
   • If your baby shows interest in what you're eating, reaches for food, or opens their mouth when you offer a spoon, they may be ready for solids.
4. Ability to Chew:
   
   • Your baby should have the ability to move food to the back of their mouth and swallow.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start with Single-Ingredient Purees:
   
   • Begin with single-ingredient, iron-rich purees such as rice cereal, oatmeal, or pureed fruits and vegetables. Start with a small amount (a teaspoon or so) and gradually increase.
2. Introduce New Foods One at a Time:
   
   • Wait a few days before introducing a new food. This helps you identify any potential allergies or sensitivities.
3. Gradual Texture Progression:
   
   • Progress from smooth purees to mashed, lumpy textures as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating. This helps develop their chewing and swallowing skills.
4. Offer Iron-Rich Foods:
   
   • Iron is essential for a baby's development. Introduce iron-rich foods such as pureed meats, poultry, and iron-fortified cereals.
5. Include a Variety of Foods:
   
   • Introduce a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins to provide a well-rounded diet and expose your baby to different flavors and textures.
6. Responsive Feeding:
   
   • Pay attention to your baby's hunger and fullness cues. Let them guide how much they eat during each feeding.
7. Use a Soft Spoon:
   
   • Choose a soft, rubber-tipped spoon for feeding to protect your baby's gums and emerging teeth.
8. Gradual Transition to Finger Foods:
   
   • As your baby becomes more adept at eating, introduce soft finger foods such as small pieces of ripe fruits, cooked vegetables, and soft cheeses.
9. Avoid Certain Foods:
   
   • Avoid introducing honey before the age of one due to the risk of botulism. Also, avoid foods that are choking hazards, such as whole grapes, nuts, and hard candies.
10. Stay Patient and Responsive:
    
    • It may take time for your baby to adjust to eating solid foods. Be patient and responsive to their cues, and make mealtimes a positive and enjoyable experience.
11. Continue Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding:
    
    • Solid foods are complementary to breast milk or formula until at least the age of 1. Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding alongside the introduction of solids.

Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods to ensure that your baby is developmentally ready and to address any specific concerns or recommendations based on your baby's health and individual needs.