Socialization is the most over-used term in the parenting world-and early childhood education world-these days…and often the most misinterpreted. We stay-at-home moms are not depriving our children of proper socialization, we are actually providing the best form of it. The definition of socialization, from dictionary.reference.com is: … [Read more...]
Books on CD Recorded by You
My husband deployed for a year back when my oldest son was 6 months old. It was a job of mine to teach my son about his dad. Without the daily interactions of a parent and an infant, that memory of "dad" would not be established. It is a reality for families whose breadwinner travels a lot. Our solution was to do a few things to keep my husband present in our daily life and one … [Read more...]
DIY Sensory Bottles from Baby Bottles
{This activity was previously shared on the Infant Activities page in October 2011.} I was first introduced to DIY sensory bottles when I worked in a daycare center. These sensory toys are very easy to make, are great for older kids to help make, and can be made in a variety of sizes. If you do not drink bottled water, you can use baby bottles. I have both … [Read more...]
Bath Time Activities
I have heard from some parents that the less toys they have in the tub the better they like it, because they just want baths to be quick. I think giving kids some fun bath time activities can make bath time time that I get to sit for a bit. How often in your day do you get to take a load off while the kids stay busy? In my house the second I sit, my kids have some radar … [Read more...]
Crash Course in Child Development: Toddlers
We have made it through the sleepless nights of infancy, the milestones of crawling and first steps, and now, just as we have a nap schedule in place and a plan of attack for errands, the toddler stage begins! I know I needed a crash course in child development toddlers edition during the years of parenting toddlers. This was my least favorite age when I was taking care of … [Read more...]
Easy Dinner: Foil Packet Meal
Although meal time is not always stress-free in our house (reference the picky eaters posts), it is a time that we are all seated together, facing each other, without any distractions...except for the picky eaters! Make getting to the table together tonight simple with the easy dinner: foil packet meals. My husband learned this as a Boy Scout and shared it with me. Now make … [Read more...]
Moms Have Goals Too
When I say I am a stay-at-home mom, I get the feeling that people assume I have no skills. I remember sitting with some fellow military spouses before any of us had children. We were talking about our "work" experiences. Even though I and two other spouses had teaching experience, whenever I tried to add to the conversation the talking halted. I felt like I was being ushered … [Read more...]
7 Ways for Moms to Fit in Me Time
Me time does not always look like I picture it in my head. Quiet hours with a book and a warm cup of coffee just do not happen in my season of life with young children. Many moms tell me it’s hard to find time alone to get some 'me time'. It is hard to plan when we will get time kid-free. I had to utilize creative ways to fit in my 'me time' when I was learning how to find … [Read more...]
Christmas Kids Activities & Homemade Gift Ideas
There are many Christmas Kids Activities that can be turned into Homemade Gift Ideas. I enjoy watching the kids complete art and craft projects that allow their creativity to show. I put together a list of favorite Christmas kids activities and homemade gift ideas. These winter activities for kids are great learning activities and many can be turned into homemade gifts. … [Read more...]
Crash Course in Child Development: Infants
If you ask most Stay-at-Home Parents of infants, they search for activities to keep their infant entertained and learning. This crash course in child development: infants will help identify what your baby can do with you to keep growing and learning. In reality, A LOT of repetition is FANTASTIC for the brain development of your baby from birth to 18 months. Don't … [Read more...]
Personalized Songs that Teach
Try these two little songs to increase learning in those moments where you need a fill-in activity, are traveling in the car, or need to get your infant to lie still while you change her diaper. I started singing the first personalized song with my children when they were infants, and they have been able to spell their own names since before turning 3 years old. It can be … [Read more...]
First Aid and CPR for Babies and Children
Teachers and child care personnel must be certified in infant and child CPR. We as parents do not, but I like to have this posted as a reference. Just a simple, quick tip that could come in handy, and hopefully will never have to be used: Post the steps for CPR and Rescue Breathing in a couple of spots in your home. Included are basic first aid resources when you … [Read more...]
Exposure to Print: Make a Word Wall
This post contains affiliate links. Please view my disclosure. A word wall is an activity that I start when my children are toddlers. It is part of our homeschool preschool activities, and I know that it helps my children learn to read with confidence. Play does matter in the lives of young children, but we can also teach them along the way. A word wall is a great way to use … [Read more...]
1 Simple Tip to Reduce the Chaotic Clutter
If someone walked into my home today they would question whether I accomplished anything. When my house gets chaotic with clutter, I do not want to spend time in it. I judge my home by its cover-what I see makes me feel like it was a successful day or not. Often my "done list" is not long enough for my liking! There is a quick way to de-clutter, and get to feeling more … [Read more...]
Responsibility of Teachers Versus Parents
The lines between what is the responsibility of teachers and parents are blurred today. Children are being essentially raised by teachers. In child care the caregivers are called "teachers" and these are the adults a child in daycare full-time sees most of their days. Beyond that, teachers are receiving students who are not ready to learn. Teachers are limited in ways … [Read more...]