Today's tips come from Alexis Buckley who will be teaching our virtual Parenting Through the Toddler Years Series Starting next Tuesday evening!
SELF-CARE TIP:
A night time shower! After a long day supporting so many people taking even 10 minutes for yourself can be a game changer. Lock the door and announce to everyone that it is "Mommy Spa Time." Another pro tip I learned from a wise mama once: add essential oils to the shower floor and you'll have an aromatherapy experience. A little extra indulgence can go along way during this time. The dishes and laundry can wait 🙂
PARENTING TIP:
Try and continue with as "normal" of a routine as you can. Wake up, change into clothes, brush teeth, go for a socially distanced walk, etc. You can even just have your routine center around food: Breakfast, Snack, Lunch, Snack, Dinner. The routine does not have to be complicated or overly full (now is not the time to be the perfect Pinterest parent!) just keep it consistent!! Children thrive on routine, they are calmer and are less anxious when they know what to expect (aren't we all). Ever wonder why your child seems to follow along with the plan so much easier at school or daycare? You guessed it, the routine is the same and they know what to expect. An added bonus of keeping a clear consistent routine is you will know what to expect, no need to reinvent the wheel everyday, stick to what is working and if it's not change it.
NATURE SPOT:
Golden Gate Park Lindley Meadow
On a recent walk through the park my 4 year old, I found some amazing climbing trees perfect for beginning climbers!! The field is full of wide open grass and and the path itself feels like walking through a private forest. Remember when you are supporting your little climber resist the urge to use the blanket phrase "be careful." Be specific when you are helping your child be aware of their body, "how does your foot feel on the branch, is it wobbly or sturdy?" "Make sure you are finding spots your hands can hold on tight!"
INDOOR ACTIVITY:
Washing dishes! I don't know about you but my son often prefers "real" tasks to the games I try to invent for him. He loves to wash the dishes. (And there a lot more dishes with everyone at home!) Yesterday instead of trying to hurry through them myself I washed anything glass or sharp and then let him have at it. A trickle of water, sponge, brush, many dishes and he was happy for 20 minutes!!! Water play is so soothing for kids and incorporating a real grown-up task makes the activity twice as appealing.