Archive for Cindy Nelson: Contributing Writer

ScienceDaily (May 6, 2009) — A new study demonstrates that the use of a consistent bedtime routine contributes to improvements in multiple aspects of infant and toddler sleep, bedtime behavior and maternal mood.

Results indicate that the establishment of a nightly bedtime routine produced significant reductions in problematic sleep behaviors for infants and toddlers. Improvements were seen in latency and sleep onset and in the number and duration of night wakings. Toddlers were less likely to call out to their parents or get out of their crib/bed during the night. Sleep continuity increased and there was a significant decrease in the number of mothers who rated their child’s sleep as problematic. Maternal mood also significantly improved.

So my husband and I are blessed to have a pool in our backyard. Naturally, we spend as much time as we can in the water. But with a five-month-old baby, it’s not that simple anymore. While she’s definitely a water baby and loves the bath, taking Charlotte to the pool is a real adventure. Since she can’t sit up by herself yet, water wings aren’t an option. My husband and I usually take turns holding her. While that is certainly the safest way for her to enjoy the water, it can get tiring.

Did You Know?

• As kids get older, they tend to slip into poor health habits. While 35 percent of sixth-graders say it’s very much like them to take good care of their bodies (such as by eating healthy foods and exercising regularly), only 23 percent of twelfth-graders say this.
• Part of helping kids take care of themselves is showing them that it’s important. Unfortunately, only 30 percent of young people surveyed by Search Institute say their parents and other adults model positive, responsible behavior. Kids watch us in all areas of life, including our health habits!

If your child panics at the sight of her own blood, keep a red washcloth handy for nosebleeds and cuts. The color of the washcloth will hide the blood. The less blood your child sees, the calmer she’ll be.

Source: LifeTips.com

When kids are physically active, their bodies can do the things they want and need them to do. Why? Because regular exercise provides these benefits:

strong muscles and bones
weight control
decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes
better sleep
a better outlook on life
Healthy, physically active kids also are more likely to be academically motivated, alert, and successful. And physical competence builds self-esteem at every age. Be active yourself and support your kids’ interests. If you start this early enough, they’ll come to regard activity as a normal — and fun — part of your family’s everyday routine.

Toddlers and young children can be notoriously finicky eaters and can be especially rigid when being told to try something new.  Try getting your little one to help you in the preparation of meals.  This allows kids to take ownership of the meal and they are far more likely to eat everything on their plate if they feel that they have had “input” into the meal and are proud of what they have accomplished by helping you.