December 2011 - Urban Infant

Surviving Toddlerhood

30 Dec

As I face the last few months of toddlerhood with my third daughter, I know she will be my last toddler. With each child it got easier and more fun, and I think it was because I had more experience. I was also less concerned about a tantrum, a treat or a skipped nap by the time I got to the third kid. I don’t stress as much about eating, phases, sleep and those types of things.

All that said, navigating life with a toddler-in-tow has its challenges.

1 | Communication is Key. Communication, for me, is about managing expectations. Toddlers understand WAY MORE than they let on. This isn’t a manipulative thing, make no mistake, they just simply can’t always communicate with you in the way that you’ll understand them, but you can communicate to them in ways they’ll understand you. Talk in short sentences with clear expectations outlined. You can be sure that if you tell her you will take her to the play area in the mall later and you don’t follow through (because you didn’t think she understood you anyway), she may throw a tantrum. Communicate to her and presume that she is understanding you.

2 | Use Distraction. My girls fight amongst themselves all the time. The older ones get angry the toddler takes their toys and things, and they try to yank it out of her hands and oh boy, here come the crocodile tears. I tell my big girls to just give her something else that she can have in exchange, and she’ll happily pass you back your item. It works every time!

3 | Pick your battles. It’snot worth sticking to your guns if your two and half year old doesn’t want to wear the red socks today. He may have a favourite pair of pajamas he wants to wear every single night. Who cares! Wash them during the day – these types of ‘fights’ with a two year old are simply not worth your energy.

4 | Let go of the Frustration. I know it’s frustrating when they won’t go down for a nap. You had your heart set on some serious quiet time, your magazine all picked out, your to-do list or your blog post ready to be written. You depend on naptime for your sanity. I get it. Bedtime? Same thing. Put that baby gate up, let them play, don’t stress. These phases are tough and feel endless when you’re inside them, but they do pass. Then you’ll be on to the next lovely phase! One of the things we do when she won’t nap and I really needed her to, is put on her favourite show, Max & Ruby. We sit on the couch together, and I make her a chocolate milk. I might have my laptop on my lap (ok, always), but she’s resting and I’m getting stuff done. It’s all good.

I have to say, I have enjoyed this last toddlerhood much more than my previous two daughers’. It’s not because she’s easier (perhaps a little), but I’m definitely more laid back about all of it. Her non-eating phase (still happening) does bother me some days, but I look at my 8-yr old who was JUST AS picky, and now she eats almost everything we do. So I think it just gets easier if you can relax a little and take it all in day by day.

___

by Connie Peters, mom to three beautiful girls and co-publisher Urban Infant Inc. & Modern Mama Inc. founder.

· Filed Under: Toddler

The Modern Baby Room

27 Dec

Do you want to create a modern baby room – something that is full of style and isn’t your typical “blue or pink?”

Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful room for your baby that also has a lot of style:

Try Pale Lilac, Instead Of Pink – I think a pale lilac is uber-feminine and fragile/dainty without being the standard requisite pink.

Grey Is The New Neutral – Greys look sophisticated and “intelligent” to me. They are a beautifully soft, chic alternative to cream or tan in a neutral kids room. And bold colors look fantastic on a sea of grey.

Go With An Inky Blue – I think inky, violet-blue is a rich alternative to standard navy. It’s impossible for that color to look saccharine. It is serene and full of power at the same time. An inky room, with all soft pastels and frothy textures layered in, is like the baby room version of a power suit with a soft silk blouse underneath!

Make A Statement- I always like to choose one truly spectacular centerpiece for a space. That could be a great textile, a pillow, a family heirloom or toy. Its your “wow” moment. Every room can benefit from a “wow” moment and it has to be something you and your child LOVE.

Add Some Artwork – Adding a piece of artwork is a very simple and easy way to transform a room. Choose the biggest piece you can afford for the scale of the room, and you won’t have to do much else, as far as decorating goes.

Finish With A Personal Touch – Your finishing touch should be something personal. Add a family photo or a piece with your child’s name or initials.

Stephanie Corfee is an artist and designer who creates intricate, vibrant artwork from her home studio in Pennsylvania. You can find tutorials, see new work, and get more advice from Stephanie on her blog at: http://stephaniecorfee.com/. You can also find her on Facebook here, http://www.facebook.com/stephaniecorfeeartist, and on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/#!/stephaniecorfee

Night Time Must-Haves

22 Dec

There are many things out on the market to help children with sleep time routines. Although not all of them will work for you, there are some great products out there that just might help.

First is a great product that acts as a night-light and has a wonderfully calming effect on your child – the cloud b (www.cloudb.com) Twilight Ladybug or Twilight Turtle will help your child overcome their fear of the dark and will help relax them enough to fall asleep.

For soothing sounds that will help to block out the nighttime distracting noises and mimic sounds that have been familiar since the womb, the cloud b Gentle Giraffe or the Sleep Sheep are perfect for sleepy time. Each comes with four soothing sounds and two sleep-timer options to help your child fall asleep. You may appreciate this so much that you will need to buy the “On the Go” versions.

Yet another cloud b product (yes, we love cloud b) that we highly recommend is the Mimicking Monkey. Not only does this monkey play 3 different sounds (for fun and sleep) you are also able to record your own message along with each sound. Familiar sounds and voices will help your child a more, peaceful and deep sleep. Hearing a familiar voice may also help your child get over separation anxiety, which may also help with “sleepovers”.

For older children that need help with bed times and wake up times the Gro Company (www.gro.co.uk) has developed the Gro-clock. The concept is very simple – you set the clock for sleep time and wake up times and the clock will display stars for when the child must sleep and a sun appears when it time for the child to wake. The clock also comes with a great story to help explain the clock to your child. This could be a life-saver if you have a little one that likes to wake at the crack of dawn.

Sleep sacks are great for the child that is a fitful sleeper. A sleep sack will ensure that your child always has their blankets on, especially on those cold winter nights. Two great companies that we recommend for a great sleep sack are the Gro Company (Grobags) and the locally owned company – Sleep Huggers Sleep Sacks (www.sleephuggers.com)

Now if all else fails there is always the relief that other parents are going through the same thing as you, so sit back and read – “Go the F**k to Sleep” by Adam Mansbach (www.amazon.ca/Go-F-Sleep-Adam-Mansbach/dp/1617750255) This book is NOT a bedtime story for your kids, it is a book for you to relate to and have a chuckle over, and believe me, you will.

Sweet dreams!!

Written by Jackie from Urban Chickadee, www.urbanchickadee.com

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Baby, sleep, Toddler

The Best Things in Life aren’t Things

19 Dec

If “The best things in life aren’t things” as the plaque (ironically, another “thing”) on my desk reminds me, then why do I have so many things? Why do my children have so many things and why do I continue to buy things? I’m sure I’m not alone in asking these questions. Especially at this time of year when we are more inclined to buy “things”.

I must admit to feeling somewhat conflicted when trying to discourage myself, and others, from buying things. I know that buying and selling is what makes the world turn. If things weren’t bought, then lots of people would suffer, least of all the receiver.

Nevertheless, it’s a good idea from time to time to take stock of what we have and what we really need.

I often hear parents talk about how unappreciative they feel their children are and how little time they spend with an item before tossing it aside and looking for something new and exciting to keep their attention. Often it’s the latest technological gadget. Sometimes it’s the most up to date piece in the fashion world. Sorry parents, but I think we have ourselves to blame for that. Our children don’t come into this world wanting for anything other than our love and attention. It’s up to us to put the brakes on some times, to live with the consequences of saying no. It’s up to us to help our children learn the value of what they have by modelling this ourselves.

How about:

Re evaluate the wish list idea. Wish lists should be just that. Wishes. Some wishes come true and others don’t. If you don’t want to discard it completely, maybe pick one item from it and let your children know this in advance. If your children are used to getting every one of their wishes met, then there is bound to be disappointment if and when they don’t. So, be careful about setting a precedent.

Take everything out of drawers and cupboards at least once a year. This need not all take place over one weekend but can be divided up throughout the year. Ask yourselves whether you’ve actually used each item or piece of clothing over the past six months. If not, consider donating it to a friend or charity. This can also be somewhat of a treasure hunt. Most of us have so much that we find items we don’t even remember owning.

Keep your home organized. This reduces the chance of replicating items. For example, if you have all your erasers and pencils in one drawer of the house, you’ll know when you’ve run out and when its time to buy more. If they’re scattered throughout the house, you may be tempted to buy another pack of pencils rather than scour the house for stray items.

Model delaying gratification. If your children see you buying on impulse, then they will be more inclined to do the same. This is not to say that you should never buy something you hadn’t planned on, but this should be more the exception than the rule. If an item can wait, then model saving for it or waiting a period of time before re visiting whether you really want, or need, it.

Rather than buying “things” for one another’s birthdays, holidays or special occasions, think of something creative that will enrich that persons life with a special memory or experience rather. You may decide as a family that instead of spending money on expensive items that no one really needs, that you’d rather invest that money in a family vacation where you can take lots of pictures that will last you a lifetime.

Instead of buying another mug, box of chocolates or scarf for your child’ teacher or relative, consider making a donation to a charity in his or her name. Or if you’d prefer, purchase a gift certificate towards an experience – dinner and a movie, for example.

I guess it’s time for me to take my own good advice!

Sara Dimerman is registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and provides counselling to individuals, couples and families. She is the author of two parenting books, ‘Am I A Normal Parent?’ and ‘Character Is the Key’ and is one of North America’s leading parenting experts. Listen to advice from Sara and her colleagues by searching “helpmesara” on iTunes. Find out more at www.helpmesara.com

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Potty Training Thoughts & Tips

15 Dec

Although there is a lot of information suggesting North American children are not ready for potty training until age 2-3, it is interesting to note that millions of babies in other areas of the world are potty trained by age 1[1]. In fact, in the past when cloth diapers were predominantly used in Canada and the USA, the age for potty training was earlier than was is considered the “norm” now. For parents looking to potty train early (ie. before 2 years old), there is information and support out there. I’ve trained both my children around the 19/20 month mark and some tips I’ve found useful include:

Observation. Learning your child’s patterns helps you to help him/her know when it’s time to go. With my daughter, once I had her out of diapers I quickly learned she was a much more frequent pee-er than I had thought. After learning that she pees about every 1/2 hour, I set a timer for myself so that I could give her the opportunity to use the potty before it was too late.
Let them learn from you. Children watch and repeat much of what we do. I’ve always had an “open door” policy to our washroom. Also, during diaper changes etc. I’ve always talked about pee & poop, with the conversation shifting focus to the toilet once potty training was starting.
Using cloth diaper, cloth training pants, and/or underwear. With all these options, the child learns the feeling of wetness. Disposable diapers create a “false environment” where the child does not learn the consequence for his/her body elimination. Plus, pull-on trainers and underwear are easier to get off quickly when you’ve got to get your child on the potty fast! Waterproof cloth training pants are ideal in homes with carpet, or once you start going out as the interior still allows the child to feel wetness, but the waterproof exterior provides a little more protection should an accident occur.
Consider going commando. Allowing your child to be diaper/underwear free while potty training allows for very quick access to the potty. If opting to try this method be sure to stick to your child like glue and keep the potty close. I used this method with my son and he learned to use the potty in 2-3 days! BabyLegs (leg warmers) paired with a shirt will keep your child comfortable even without pants while providing easy and quick access when it’s time to use the potty.
Be prepared. Ensure you have several activities near the potty to encourage your child to spend a little more time on the potty. Many people use books, songs or rhymes when their child is on the potty. I even had a small wooden table/desk made that could be pulled up to the potty to then allow my daughter to colour, use play dough, blocks, toy cars etc. A great tip especially for kids that want to get up and go.
Rewards? Simple verbal praise goes a long way! Clapping, hugging, high-fives, and congratulating your child have strong effects and positive results. Some people also may choose to use rewards such as stickers or other “treats.”
Attitude. The determination of the primary caregiver plays a big role in the success of potty training. Even though potty training can be challenging and even frustrating at times, staying positive and sticking with it usually ends in success. Remember, it’s a teaching & learning process for all involved.

Written by Andrea Harmatiuk, Co-Owner of Little Tree Hugger, www.littletreehugger.ca

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toilet_training

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Helping Couples Find Time for Me and We – Ten Tips

12 Dec

Finding me and we time can be difficult, but not impossible. When figuring out how to create opportunities to spend time as a couple and time alone with adult friends, be aware of what most couples argue about and then learn how to overcome these arguments by reading my ten tips below:

1. The “it’s not fair” syndrome. Couples most commonly argue about who gets more time out. One may feel jealous or resentful that “he gets to go out with his friends while I’m at home continuing to do laundry and put the kids to bed.” Although you may feel angry or abandoned, try not to take his wanting to go out alone personally. It’s not usually a reflection of how he feels about you but is more about his needing some space to let go of his usual responsibilities. The trick to negotiating time apart is to understand one another’s personal needs and feelings (“confined,” “abandoned” or “overwhelmed” for example), then to try to accommodate each other without feeling that the arrangement is lopsided. Even if you don’t want to leave the house, perhaps even having time alone to take a bubble bath while your partner puts the kids to bed might feel more fair.

2. Neither gets time out. Sometimes, life is so hectic with work and kids and other responsibilities, that neither person gets time out. It’s equally as important (if not more) for couples to find time to devote towards one another as it is for each to find time alone. So, make sure that you talk about how to make this happen. Some couples enjoy taking turns at planning date nights. Sometimes it’s easier to arrange to be together at the same time and day each week – even day time hours are good for dating.

3. Different expectations. Couples also commonly argue about how much social time each should spend apart. Each person’s expectations may be different. Usually these are not discussed before living together or getting married. So, whereas one person may believe that she should have the freedom to plan time away from her spouse or children whenever she chooses, her partner may feel that two nights out in a row is excessive. Understanding and acknowledging each other’s expectations and then compromising is important. Be sensitive to your partner’s concerns and be realistic about the lifestyle changes that need to be made once you take on the responsibility of being part of a couple or having children.

4. Places off limit. Couples argue about where their partners should spend time with their friends. She might be fine with him hanging out at a friend’s home with a group of guys and playing poker but not okay with him hanging out with that same group of friends at a bar. He might be fine with her going out for coffee with a friend but not okay with her going away on vacation with a group of girls. Discuss the reasons for each other’s reservations, listen closely and consider the rationale behind each argument. It’s true that venturing into certain places where singles generally convene can be a recipe for trouble. So, think about the consequences to your relationship if you continue to choose to go to places that your partner feels strongly against.

5. Negative peer influences. Couples sometimes argue about who their partners should have time out with. She may prefer that he hang out with his married friends as opposed to his single mates. He may prefer that she not hang out with a particular friend who puts him down. Consider each other’s points of view and work at reassuring your partner that you will not be unduly influenced by your peers. Help him or her feel that you are on the same team.

6. Accessibility. Couples sometimes argue about how accessible each should be to the other when apart. She may be angry that his cell phone’s answering machine picks up after one ring and he may be angry that she leaves her cell phone at home when she goes out. It’s best if your partner feels that he or she can reach you even when you are apart, especially in case of an emergency. Make sure your cell phone is on vibrate so that even if you can’t hear the ringing, you’ll know that you are needed. Of course, each needs to be respectful of the other’s need for time away and shouldn’t be calling just to check up or in.

7. Weekends are sacred. Some couples decide on specific nights of the week for his and her nights out. There are some couples who include weekends as part of this equation, but my recommendation is that in most cases, weekends should be reserved for time together as a couple or time with family.

8. Be conscious of time and state. You’re likely to create conflict if you stumble in, inebriated, at one in the morning. It is also less likely that your partner will be inclined to encourage you to take time for yourself too soon. Be responsible and respectful of each other and talk about boundaries that you both feel comfortable working within.

9. People transition differently. Some have a more difficult time transitioning from a single, carefree independent lifestyle to that of having to ‘answer’ to another person (“don’t treat me like a child” syndrome). Others may be more accepting of the responsibilities and changes that go along with becoming a couple. If you accept that everyone is different, you may be more understanding of the position that your partner is coming from.

10. Time apart can be healthy. Time apart can better your time together. If you are able to negotiate an amount of time that feels right for each of you and come to an agreement about where, when, how and with whom to spend that time apart, then when you come together, you may feel more connected and appreciate one another more.

Written by Sara Dimerman. Sara Dimerman is registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and provides counselling to individuals, couples and families out of the Parent Education Resource Centre in Thornhill, Ontario. Sara is a nationally recognized relationship and parenting expert and is the author of two books, Am I A Normal Parent? and Character Is the Key. Visit her website at www.helpmesara.com

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Relationships

Holiday’s and Sleep

8 Dec

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! It is also one of the most exhausting times too. There is so much to do, many places to be, and family and friends to visit. How do we fit in our little one’s need for naps and a good night’s sleep?

A well-rested little one can handle variations in his schedule and will just ‘roll’ with little changes without disruptions to his sleep. Here are some tips to help you through the season and the bigger disruptions to his regular routine.

1) Travelling during nap time (if they will sleep in the car) will help fit in a little bit of sleep.

2) Packing light is never an option so be prepared with regular items that your child finds comforting and part of his regular routine: blankets, your sheets because of the familiar scent, a special lovey, books, night light with extra bulb, a white noise machine (or radio tuned between stations), and a playpen or even a crib. If you find you are regularly visiting the same place throughout the year and/or have family that also visits and has a little one – perhaps investing in a second crib is worthwhile. Another option for frequent travellers is to use the same playpen all of the time; it will be one more thing that is the same.

3) Having a base ‘camp’ is a great way to enable you to establish a predictable routine during your vacation. Instead of jumping place to place to fit all of the visiting in; you can pick one house to ‘camp’ at and have all of the visiting done here. You can pick one family’s home for this visit and the other family for next visit. Everyone is much happier visiting with well-rested children and the visits can be longer because you aren’t packing up to get back before bedtime. You will also be avoiding the struggle of getting him settled at a new home each time you move.

4) Staying in the same room? You can have a little family meeting with your little one(s) and explain that “at Grandma’s house we can sleep together because it is a special visit but when we go home you will be back in your room”; of course you will need to remind them of this when you return home. You would be surprised how much little ones do understand! Remember that choosing to use old sleep crutches, such as rocking or nursing to sleep, on a holiday will be OK as long as, once you are back home, you are prepared for a couple of nights of his refusal to go back to the regular routine. Consistency, as always, will be key.

5) We all want to avoid disrupting everyone else’s sleep wherever we are staying. Try very hard to establish a good bedtime and be consistent with your responses throughout the night. Predictability and consistency will help everyone (usually the first night is the test and then the remainder of the holiday will go smoother).

6) You always need to follow your little one’s sleepy cues; vacation or not. Your best chance to get him to sleep is when you follow his sleep windows. You know what happens if you don’t – that second wind hits! An over-tired, fussy child is difficult to deal with and you want to avoid adding stress to yourself. Once your little angel is sleeping it is time for you to relax and enjoy yourself too.

7) Accept help and give yourself a break. Family understands – most of the time

Written by Heather Plante – a certified Gentle Sleep Coach; mentored by Kim West, LCSW-C – The Sleep Lady®, Heather is the owner of Soothing Angels - www.SoothingAngels.ca

Photo courtesy of Heather Wagner Photography, www.heatherwagnerphotography.com

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Baby, Holiday Season, sleep, travel

Rolling Right Along

7 Dec

Rolling is a milestone that is bound to excite your baby as much as it excites you. Rolling allows your baby to transition from a world that moves around him to one he moves through! But remember not to rush your baby. Rolling takes about 3 months to master. When this natural progression is followed your baby will not only learn the coordination skills needed to roll safely with control, but also strengthen and support core muscles and spine development.

Between 3-4 months:

- Help you baby develop neck strength through tummy time. Your baby can

turn his head from side to side while lying in prone position. He has the

ability to lift head and chest (bringing head to midline) while using his

forearms or hands for support.

- Your baby will bring her knees to chest and her hands to knees so her upper

and lower body are symmetrical and roll to her side. Her upper and lower

body will remain symmetrical in this side lying position

Activities:

What’s that sound?

With your baby on his tummy, move behind him so you are hidden from his sight.

Move to one side, sitting or laying down, still slightly behind him. Using your voice

make funny sounds, sing a song, or shake a rattle. This should cause him to turn his

head in the direction of the sound. When he finds you, praise him for a few minutes

with your voice and touch. Repeat the game again being sure to do both the left and

right side.

The Grand Old Duke of York

Lie on your stomach or sit in front of your baby while he lays looking at you. Using a

instrument, rattle, puppet, scarf, or other toy sing the poem below. Be sure to move

the object enough so he cannot just track it with his eyes, but also must move his

head.

“The Grand Old Duke of York, (Shake rattle or toy in front of baby)

He had ten thousand men,

He marched them to the top of the hill, (Shake rattle or toy moving up)

And he marched them down again. (Shake rattle or toy moving down)

And when they re up, they re up. (Shake rattle or toy moving up)

And when they re down, they re down. (Shake rattle or toy moving down)

And when they re only half way up. (Shake rattle or toy in front of baby)

They’re neither up nor down.

He marched them to the left. (Shake rattle or toy to the left)

He marched them to the right. (Shake rattle or toy to the right)

He marched them all around this town. (Shake rattle or toy in front of baby)

He march them out of sight! (Hide rattle or toy behind your back)”

Humpty Dumpty

Get down on all 4 over top of your baby. As you say the poem rock side to side. Fall

to one side of your baby and continue with poem, encouraging baby to roll onto her

side to continue to engage with you.

“Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall (over top of baby swaying side to side)

Humpty Dumpty had a great fall (fall to one side of baby laying on your side)

All the king s horses and all the king s men, couldn t put Humpty together again (lay

on your side and continue with poem)”

Body Parts Poems with Props

Try singing a body parts song (such as Head, Shoulder, Knees, Toes or Toe Knee

Chest Nut) with your baby on her back. Instead of using your hands add the

stimulation of a scarf, puppet, or other toy that will encourage baby to reach and

bring attention to her to knees. Once she has her hands on her knees move the prop

to one side encouraging her turn her head and body will follow.

Around 5 months:

- Your baby will continue to work on upper and lower body symmetry.

Symmetrical push patterns are initiated when your baby pushes with both

his hands or both his feet. Towards the end of 5 months your baby may push

his upper body up with both his hands and find he can slide backwards. Bare

hands and feet and smooth surfaces allow his to travel with more ease.

- This month your baby will discover his body sides can work together (same

arm as foot). This movement pattern is a foundational step for rolling and

belly crawling.

- Your baby will also explore body sides through sideVtoVside weight transfer

and lateral reaching movements. At first she will look like a swimmer while

in prone position, extending one arm in front and then another, keeping her

lower body grounded. She will incorporate the lower body as well. As she

reaches with her right arm, notice that her right leg extends behind her. Her

left leg and arm tuck in towards herself as her weight shifts to the left and

keeps her grounded to the floor. With her weight transferred to the left side

observe how much more range of motion and freedom her right side

experiences.

- Your baby will begin to apply this asymmetrical body side alignment in her

side laying position. As she rolls to the right, her right arm and leg will flex,

providing her with balance in order to reach and explore with her left side.

- Once he has mastered balancing in the side lying position, your baby will

begin working on lateral head righting (lifting her head off the ground),

causing spine to flex laterally It is this head lifting pattern that starts

developing your baby s ability to roll from back to stomach.

Activities:

Gentle Tug of War/Row row row your Boat

While your baby is in side lying position engage her with a light soft toy or scarf.

Watch as your baby reaches for the scarf, extending her top arm and leg while the

other side grounds her to the floor. Once she seems to have found her balance bring

the prop close enough for her to grasp. Then gently tug on the prop providing a

slight shift in balance. How does your baby react?

Once she seems very comfortable sing Row, row, row your Boat while gently pulling

and releasing the prop providing a dynamic balance experience.

“Row, row, row, your boat

Gently down the stream.

Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily

Life is but a dream!”

Mirrors

A large mirror that reaches the floor can provide your baby with a friendly reflection

that reacts when he does. While lying on his side your baby may reach towards the

reflection, wave his arms in excitement, and babble to he friendly face that babbles

back. Sit or lay behind your baby so he has a chance to interact with you as well.

What’s that sound?

Now that your baby is working on lateral head righting try playing this game again,

offering slightly more challenge to match her new skills and strength. While your

baby is in side laying position, move behind her by her head. Make a noise, sing a

song, play an instrument. Watch as your baby responds by lifting her head and

twisting her body to track the source of the sound.

Around 6 months:

- At 6 months your baby will add an “airplane fly” or full spinal extension to

her movement patterns in the prone position, lifting both the arms and legs

off the floor, as her core muscles engage and strengthen providing greater

support for her spine.

- That your baby has mastered all foundational movements and has spent time

developing muscular strength. He will now begin to add this spinal extension

to his side lying, head righting, giving him the control he needs to completely

roll from back to front. Once this has been mastered, he will work on rolling

from front to back using the same patterns.

Magic Carpet Rides

Lay your baby on her front on top of a sturdy sheet or receiving blanket. Holding

two corners of the blanket gentle pull your baby along a smooth surfaced floor

(kitchen floors work very well). To maintain her balance your baby may extend into

the airplane position. Start by moving her in straight pathways. Once she is

comfortable with this game and has increased her core stability, expand into curved

and zigzag pathways, always moving at a gentle, slow pace.

Video’s to help illustrate!

Tummy Time Tips

Progression of a Roll

Tummy Time Play using Scarves and Rhymes

Written by Jessica Baudin-Griffin B. Ed. , owner and artistic director of J’Adore Dance. As a developmental dance educator she believes anyone and everyone can dance! Jessica’s blog ( www.intellidance.ca ) was voted second place in Alberta’s Top 10 Mama Bloggers – Page 18 in our Fall issue!

***Giveaway*** From J’Adore Dance & UI! Comment on this blog (your email address does not show publicly) and you will be entered to win a set of 3 Peek A boo scarves!! The draw will be done December 14th!

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Baby, Development, Tummy Time, Uncategorized

Baby Moons

2 Dec

With the cold weather here to stay and the wind blowing we thought we’d share one of our favorite articles from one of our previous issues. A very good reason to go somewhere sunny! – UI Team

You’re pregnant and excited. This is a great time in your life for you and your partner! But you’re also used to packing up and getting away whenever you want … impending mommydom could mean the end of such freedoms and luxuries. Sounds like a babymoon is in order!

A “babymoon” is one last trip before two become three. It’s an idea that is being embraced by more and more couples. This is a time to take advantage of being pampered and enjoy bonding together before baby arrives. A growing number of resorts are catering to expecting mommas and their partners. Packages often include massages, candlelit dinners and relaxation all around to enjoy before your world gets a new bundle of excitement. If you will be traveling out of country, make sure to check with your OB/Gyn first to get the OK.

Travel during your second trimester, avoid long flights, be vigilant about what you eat and drink, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if need be. If you choose to stay close to home, you can make a fun day of it by turning off the phones, heading to a spa together, and then add something fun like belly casting to your agenda. Just make sure that the whole day is really about the two of you. There are a number of websites out there catering, specifically, to potential babymooners like you! Check out www.babymoonfinder.com for some great info, and then contact your travel agent so you can get packing! Congratulations!

From Pg 18 • winter 2011
Written by Darci Huhn, Independent Travel Consultant with Expedia Cruiseshipcenters Sherwood Park. dhuhn@cruiseshipcenters.com

Photos Courtesty of Sammy Tavarez | www.JMonetstudios.com

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