So, you are ready for your grand adventure… your first trip as a family. Whether by land, sea, or air, just the thought of traveling with young children can be daunting! Rest assured, with a little pre-planning your traveling nightmares will disappear!

Here are some simple tips that can make traveling with young children easier:

1. Expect the Unexpected: Always have extra snacks, drinks, formula, milk, diapers, comfort objects, and a few changes of clothes on hand. Cars break down, flights get delayed, and boats don’t always dock.  Having a few essentials on hand will make wait times go by much smoother.
2. Plan for the Potty: If your child is in diapers, bring a lot of them! Children tend to eat and drink more while traveling, so be prepared. Remember your travel changing pad and wipes. If your child is potty training, or already trained, you must also be prepared. If you are on a plane, the bathroom becomes the most fun place on earth. It’s the reason the child is able to get out of their seat! Be prepared that they will ask you to use the potty over and over again. After the child has gone to the potty, and you know that he doesn’t have to go, don’t bring him back again right away. When he starts asking to go, ask him if he would like to go for a walk, instead. Chances are they will then ease up on the “potty fun.”  If you’re on a road trip, carry a travel potty with you. Bathrooms are not always clean or convenient.  Travel potties are not only inexpensive, but they are a fast and easy option for children on the road. For children who are in the beginning stages of potty training, play it by ear. Children often don’t want to use new bathrooms when they are first learning, so have a few extra diapers, and don’t stress about it. Even if the child does not use the potty on vacation, you can get right back on track when you get home.
3. Have your magic bag on hand: “What is the magic bag?” you ask. It’s the bag that has fun activities your child enjoys! Pick toys or games that will keep your child busy. Crayons, coloring books, water pens, CD’s, DVD’s, story books, play dough- anything is game. The rule of thumb is to pick things that are easy to clean up, don’t make a huge mess, will distract your child, and will keep them occupied. Have a few of these items in your “magic bag”, but only introduce one at a time. When the child is bored, remove that item, and move on to the next! The “magic bag” can be your savior!
4. Be prepared: Always have a medicine bag with items such as Tylenol, Motrin, travel thermometer, prescriptions your child takes, bug spray, sun block, baby wash, first aid kit with Neosporin, and some anti-itch ointment. These things can be expensive to purchase, so being prepared will not only save you financially, it will set your mind at ease.
5. Keep Child-Friendly In Mind: Think about what time of day works best for your family when traveling. Some people choose to travel at night so their children will sleep through most of the trip, while others choose early morning travel in an attempt to avoid delays or traffic.  Also, try to find child-friendly airlines or rest stops. Children traveling by car need frequent breaks to get out some energy. Google your destinations to find rest stops with parks or fields to run in. If traveling by air, call and plan ahead. Request seating together and toward the back of the plane where there may be empty seats available. This will give your child the space they need to travel in comfort.

The first plane trip I took with my sons, our flight was delayed 4 hours and we were not allowed to disembark.  Being stuck in a plane with a 3 year old and an infant isn’t much fun. The first road trip I took with my son I learned the hard way he had motion sickness. Life is full of surprises, and what I took away from both of these experiences were memories. Regardless of the travel chaos, we still had fabulous vacations, and now I have stories to tell. The key to traveling with children is to stay calm, laugh when things get hectic, and do the best you can. Remember they are only little once, so cherish it, and enjoy your vacation!

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By: eLearners.com

Photo Courtesy limaoscarjuliet

As the school year closes, parents often think about what’s next for their children. For many, that next step is Nursery School, 2 day Toddler classes, or Step Up Classes. This can be a nerve wracking decision as you wonder, is my child ready? How will my young child, who has never been left, cope? What should I do?

The first thing to know is that separation is a normal process that every child goes through. Children express their anxiety about being away from their parents and caregivers in many different ways. Some cry, cling, act out in class and at home, or separate well initially, and then cry a few weeks later. Adults going through separation from their children may be anxious, nervous, and even cry when they leave that very first day. Parents do not like to see their children upset, and this can often illicit responses in you, that you didn’t even know you were capable of.

Remember, this is a normal and important part of development. Children need to learn that it is alright to be away from their parents, and they are safe in other environments. Children also need to understand how to self-soothe. This is something that we work on during the time when they are infants, and keep working on throughout the child’s life. Once a child has learned to trust their teachers, and have understood that they are in a safe environment, they will begin to adjust to whatever classroom environment you have chosen for them.

This leads to the question of what class is right for my child? This is a very personal choice. No one knows your child better than you, and every child is different. As a mother of two boys who both started school at the age of two, their separation was night and day. My oldest son, Logan, cried for two months straight. I wish there had been a Step Up program for him, as I believe it would have been less traumatic for him. Step Up and 2 day Toddler classes, offered by Early Childhood, allow children to slowly separate in the classroom. The class meets two or three days a week, depending on the age of the child. Parents enter the classroom and help their children feel safe in their new environment. As the semester progresses, the teachers give advance notice when the next “Step Up” towards separation will take place.  Parents and caregivers slowly work their way out of the classroom. Though parents and caregivers remain right outside the classrooms, the children inside the classrooms begin to rely on the teachers to tend to their needs.

Kyle, my youngest child, would not have needed a slow separation. On the first day of school, he walked right in, waved good bye, and never looked back. He has always been my adventurous child, and though I was nervous from my past experience, I knew that he would be okay. This is not to say that Kyle did not show separation anxiety in his own way. He acted out a little, and even spoke about not wanting to go to school. In the end, though it was a much smoother transition and the right choice for him. Nursery school offers a learning experience for a longer period of time depending on the program you choose. It is beneficial for parents who are in need of consistent care, and is a truly valuable experience for any child whose parent feels they are ready.

After you make the choice that is right for your child, the question becomes, how do you cope with your own anxiety?  Here are some simple tips:

1. Ask! Teachers want you to be comfortable, so ask as many questions as you need to! It makes their job easier when you feel at ease!
2. Communicate! Let them know what you fears are, what’s going on with your child, and what your expectations are. If you are an open book, you’ll feel better and the teachers will have a better understanding of your child.
3. Trust! If you trust the teachers in your child’s class, so will your children! Remember you have done your research and made a wise choice.  Now, with your help, your teacher will be able to earn your child’s trust. So be positive and stay focused, that trust will soon be built.
4. Time! Remember, building trust takes time. Some children take a day, others take two months. This is a normal part of development.  Allow your child some time to adjust to their new surroundings.
5. Conference! If time has passed and your child seems inconsolable, work with your teachers to come up with a plan. If a teacher feels your child is not ready, they will let you know.
6. Plan! Remember this is as hard on you as it is on them. Have a plan for those first days of school. After your quick goodbye, plan to meet a friend, or do something that will keep you occupied. It is extremely hard to leave your child crying. So even if you plan to remain outside the classroom, bring an ipod, or something that will keep you busy. Planning ahead will help you remain calm.

Separation anxiety is something everyone goes through. Even as adults we tend to feel anxiety in new situations and when we meet new people. Children react the same way in those situations.  Understanding that separation anxiety is normal will help you meet the needs of your child.  Remember you are not alone and your child is not the only one going through this! Reach out to administrators, teachers, and other parents. They are your best source to listen, and even give some helpful tips. Remember, whether your choice is Nursery, Step Up, or Two Day Toddlers, when separation time arrives,  your child will be fine, and so will you!

Photo Courtesy limaoscarjuliet

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Here are some quick shopping tips when prices are high and the budget is low

For Infants, Babies and Toddlers:

Please remember toddlers have no concept of price and what they want! You could give them a shopping bag and they would play for hours! It does not make you any less of a parent because they own no leap frog toys! Try sticking with old fashioned toys like shape rings, wooden clocks, spinning wheels, board books, large puzzles, shape sorters, anything that has cause and effect sounds or lights!

For Preschool and School age Children:

Science experiments, Leggos, Kineks, Cars, Trucks, Planes, Barbies, dolls, are all reasonably priced. Does she really need Barbies Dream house when you can afford a cheaper doll house but place 4 barbies in it? Same with the fellas. They don’t need the super duper Monster truck for $150 dollars when you can get 40 hot wheels for  $10. Remember at the preschool age children will love whatever you give them.

As they get older children will want Nintendo DSI, IPODS, WII, PS3, cell phones,  and expensive video games. My answer to this is simple. If this is what they really want, go for it with someone else. Some parents split the cost with grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles. This way the child gets their big  gift and the people that were looking to buy them presents have helped with the cost. Another idea is to let the child know(if they are older)  that you will give them a gift card for half and they can save up their allowance by doing odd jobs to help make up the other half.  Another solution is to only buy one gift for the child and make it the big purchase. Please note that just because a child wants a gift doesn’t mean they should get it. Does an 8 year old need an Ipod Touch or  would it be better to get a child a much cheaper MP3 that  won’t hurt you so much when it gets lost or stolen! Does he need a DSi or could you find a Gameboy or a Leapster that would cost half the price? These are the questions to ask yourself.

No one is saying to deprive your children of toys this holiday season. Just keep in mind that your children’s love comes from how you treat them, not what you buy for them….happy holidays!

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• Game systems such as V Tech, Hooked on Phonics, L-MAX and leap pads by Leapster are wonderful educational gifts. They promote learning and still have a”video game appeal” that is non violent and fun. Children can learn to write, count, create art, and even do mathematics. These systems also usually provides age levels on the game boxes to help parents choose whats right for them.
• A wonderful and timeless gift are Legos or building blocks. Legos are great because they provide a sensory experience, enhance fine motor development, and most importantly utilize a child’s imagination skills. Lego’s come in all different styles now (pirate ships, dinosaurs etc) so whatever your nursery schooler is in to can be built! Building blocks are fun and allow for toddlers to understand the concept of logic and to practice patience!
• Classic board games such as Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, and Hungry Hippos can make wonderful gifts. Not only do they promote learning but they allow for parents to have an opportunity to spend quality time with their child. Whether you are playing a logic skill came such as “Memory” or working on your fine motor skills with “Ants In Your Pants,” you both will have hours of fun to look ahead to!
• Another great gift idea that is relatively inexpensive are small caged animals. No I don’t mean the fuzzy animals that poop and smell all the time. A hermit crab or a fish can provide hours of fun with minimal effort. Your child will love looking at his new sea creature and can even learn responsibility while helping to feed the new family pet. This is especially great for toddlers who may become sick frequently or have allergy issues because they are hairless pets that still need care. The great thing about buying goldfish are that even of they pass, they can be easily replaces and require little maintenance.

These ideas can really help your family have a Merry Christmas! Santa’s bag can still be full of fun items that you are certain will be safe for your toddlers and nursery school age kids!

Here are some articles which might make this years search for toddler gifts a bit easier:

The Cool Mom Picks Safer Toy Guide 2007

Toy Hazard Recalls from US Consumer Product Safety Commission

Find toy recalls with – Recalls.gov

In Search of Safety: A Mom’s 8-Step Guide to Toy Selection and Everyday Use

Choosing Safe Toys

Before You Buy A Toy For Your Child – Toy Safety Checklist

Healthy Toys Resource

Photo courtesy Lee Cullivan

10. Every child throws tantrums. This is a normal part of life. There is no terrible 2’s or 3’s, all children go through phases and it’s normal. I know parents who will tell you that their child is going through the terrible 16’s!

9. Your child WILL learn! So what if Suzie knows how to read and your child doesn’t. Each child learns at his own pace. When he is ready he will work with you and learn, so don’t push it!

8. Every child needs to make a mess. A 4 year old is just that, a 4 year old. Don’t get upset over every mess you see. This is part of the learning process and part of the fun! Remember messes most often means that your child was attempting to do something on his own, and that is progress.

7. Every child needs to be babied once in awhile. No I am not telling you to break out the bottle for your four year old, but every once in awhile your child may ask you to help them dress or put on their shoes. Yes they know how to do it, but every once in awhile they want the security of knowing that you are willing to still help them. Why not do it?

6. They won’t be children forever. Treasure those moments and relax. They will not be drawing on the walls at 16 and dropping milk all over the floor. Remember relax and stay calm!

5. Your child needs memories. When they are older it will be too late. You want your child to remember all the great times he had growing up. Remember this, on their death bed no one ever says they wish they had worked more.

4. Every child needs a caregiver. Even if it’s that ten minutes of story time or chatting at bath time your child craves your attention and interaction. The more you give the more you get. They would much rather be with you then in front of a television.

3. Your child will eat. I know the doctor always tells you that, but its true so don’t worry. Unless your child has a serious medical problem, they won’t let themselves starve. The more you make meal time a battle the less they will want to eat.

2. You are your child’s role model. If you curse, yell, or give attitude, so will your child. Remember your child will want to be like you.

Photo courtesy Pixdaus.com

1. Your child is not perfect. Thinking like this sets you both up for failure. Understand your child’s imperfections because you will then have an accurate picture of your child. You will be able to accept feedback and help your child grow into a wonderful human being. Remember, accepting weakness does not mean you are negating strengths. What it does mean is that you understand the life that you are nurturing. Remember only ostriches should keep their head in the sand.

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• Have Your Child Make Something. Nothing is more heartwarming than a child who crafts something for his dad. If he is younger art projects are great! If he is older he can make something that your husband is into: a birdhouse for nature lovers, design a tool box for a fit it man, or even a picture frame. Whatever it is, dad will love it!
• Plan an Outing! Most dads love to do something with their children! Do something fun! Plan a day at the park, a fishing trip, or a day at a baseball game. This is a great way for your child to bond! They will have a great time and father’s day will create memories!
• Food is Still the Way to Any Mans Heart. Have your child cook him a meal and go on a picnic (indoors if it’s raining). The effort will be appreciated and your child learns the importance of doing something special for daddy.
• A Picture Can Convey Your Love. Have a photo framed or placed on a mug for your happy daddy. Seeing his children on a mug or in a frame on his desk at work will make him smile every day.
• Sports Art Paintings – An unusual gift I just stumbled upon, and a great way to replace that painting of dogs playing poker thats hanging over the fireplace. I gaurentee he does not have one of these yet! Edgar Brown’s passionate paintings are magical, check out his latest on Eli Manning .
• Modern Skin-Care Products Made for Men – The "metro sexual " movement is not reaching some of our extremely masculine hold-outs. Check out BeyondBeautyBasics and Mens Health for more info.

So if you are tired of giving a tie or some cologne then try something different! Your husband or father will leave feeling love and appreciated!

Image via Wikipedia

1. Talk your kids teachers with like they are your friends! If they love you, your kids will almost definately get better attention. Also, they deserve it because they are caring for our precious children. Even if you are upset with them, speaking with courtesy and respect can often solve problems easily.

Above all else, remember that teacher’s are not God’s. They do not see all, hear all, or know all. Sometimes they make mistakes, and sometimes they forget things. Remembering they are human and treating them with continued respect is the key to a successful relationship with any classroom teacher.

Here are some resources about taking to teachers:

How Can I Talk to My Child’s Teacher? from the National Education Association

How to Talk to Your Child’s Teacher by By Lela Davidson

Talking to Your Child’s Preschool Teacher from KidsHealth.org

How To Talk To Your Kid’s Teacher by Kate Lawler

Talking to Your Child’s Teacher or Caregiver from the Illinois Early Learning

Talking to Your Child’s Teacher About Standardized Tests from KidSource.com

So your child loves to be social and chats with everyone on the street and you think it’s a wonderful thing…most of the time. There is that uncomfortable moment though where you notice that your 3 year old is giving out all of his personal information. How do we teach our child not to talk to strangers? This is a simple yet difficult topic to cover because we want our children to be social yet we need them to be a bit fearful. Here are a few simple tips that may help:

*Explain to your child what a stranger is. Tell them that a stranger is someone that you don’t know. Let them know that when a grown up is not around they should not talk or take anything from people they don’t know.

*Let your child know that there are nice and not-so-nice people in the world. Its okay to let your child know that not everyone wants to be their friend. As a matter of fact, its imperative that children understand this concept for their safety.

*You are not going to be able to stop a pre schooler from saying what everything, but you can control who they say it to. Use your internal radar! When you are out with your child and see someone approaching to talk to them, if they give off a strange vibe, walk away. Trust your instincts. Just because someone wants to speak or touch your child doesn’t mean they should. You are the best defense against strangers, You can smile and politely walk away,

*Check out John Walsh ’s How do I teach my child not to talk to strangers. It has many useful tips and is pretty kid friendly. Also check out your local book stores and find books! The Big Bad Wolf is a great example of a stranger that your child may understand.

In this scary world we live it is vitally important to protect your child. Help your child stay social but safe!

More info on keeping kids safe:

Kids & Strangers: not-for-profit, family safety DVD project that shows, parents and children how to avoid child molestation

Teaching Children to Avoid "Stranger Danger"

Top Five Ways to Protect Your Children Against Strangers

Strangers and Other Dangers from McGruff

Ask John Walsh: How Do I Teach My Child About Strangers?