Potty Training

I have experienced that the key to potty training is consistency....not on the child's behalf because they surely will consistently pee and boo boo! But on behalf of the parents and caregivers. I have a conversation with my children about the where we are supposed to use the bathroom and how much diapers and pull ups are putting a dent in my pocket! But really I take a week to let them wear real underwear during the day and the feel your potty indicating pull ups at night. I established a routine of taking them to the bathroom every hour on the hour, not asking them if they had to go. I left them on the potty for 5 minutes each time. Sometimes running the sink water urges and reminds them they need to go. They may have accidents in their clothes but remain committed to cleaning the floor and changing their clothes....this stage won't last forever in the grand scheme of things. Patience and consistency are key!

Rap About Motherhood

I was introduced to this ironically funny link and I wanted to share it with you! Click Motherhood Rap and let me know how accurate you think it is!

Sleeping in their own bed

How do you get your child to sleep in their own bed? That's a great question that I too am exploring answers to. Some say:

1. Let the baby cry in the crib and after a few nights, they will get adjusted to falling asleep on their own. But who wants to hear that crying all night long, especially if the baby shares a room with a sibling!

2. If the child gets out of their bed on their own, meet them before they get to your room, take them by the hand and lead them back to their room without talking to them.

Do you have any suggestions? What has worked for you? What options are you exploring?

SHARE!

Engaging Toddler Games

Is it a rainy day or too hot or cold to go outside? Here are some fun and interactive games to play with your toddler.

1. Red Light, Green Light

2. Duck, Duck, Goose

3. Freeze Game

4. What Time is it Mister Fox

5. Ring Around the Roses

If these games have tired you out, then try:

1. This LIttle Piggy

2. Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes

3. The Wheels on the Bus

What to pack in the hospital bag?

Mommy and Daddy need to BOTH be prepared with an overnight hospital bag. But also remember that you aren't typically staying longer than 2-3 days. But remember the essentials to make sure that you are comfortable and prepared. Here is a short essentials list for the parents-to-be:

1. insurance card

2. birthing plan

3. iPod with 3 playlists (meditation, motivation, push-it)

4. water bottle with straw

5. baby arrival call list

6. personal pj/robe/warm socks/house shoes

7. going home clothes

8. hygiene personals

9. baby's first coming home outfit

10. car seat

"Natural" Child Birthing

Well, some opt for the meds and others don't. Whatever your choice, please ensure that you are educated. Many do not know that an epidural is a "cocktail" of drugs. Any concoction of drugs on hand is used to create the ultimate pain reliever. Whereas, experiencing childbirth without meds is a short-lived rewarding experience. There is a bond and connection with your child that is inexplicable. The mother is also able to "feel" the baby to aid in pushing out the baby quicker. The "labor pains" are over before you know it and you are having another child all over again.

I would highly recommend a Bradley Natural Birthing Class and teacher. For recommendations in the Washington, DC area, comment on this post.

Share your natural birthing experience!

The "mini" pill

Well, if you think that nursing will "preserve" you from conceiving again... please check with your doctor. And I'm positive that they will recommend that you start the "mini" pill at the beginning of your baby's 6th month. Beware of the SMALL side effect of weight gain that the doctor doesn't really emphasize. I say that it's a SMALL side effect, knowing first hand that it will make you BIG. The mini pill only contains progesterone which drastically increases your appetite. So although you are burning calories by nursing, you are gaining them back quicker with the mini pill appetite enhancer! So just be aware of this and try to eat in moderation.

Just a little bit of first hand knowledge!