With your toddler growing and learning rapidly, it is time to create a room to foster all of this. Selecting a theme for your toddler’s room can be quite a challenge. Luckily, there are a number of toddler room themes that can freshen up your toddler’s bedroom. Below are some clever ideas you can choose from.

Toddler Room Theme # 1: Underwater

An under the sea themed bedroom is one of the most popular toddler room themes for both boys and girls. First, paint the bedroom walls blue and you can add ocean waves, bubbles, corals and fishes in different colors, sizes and shapes. If you are wary about drawing the walls, you can try using removable wall decals or stickers. Use shower stick-ons for the windows, plastic shower curtains with fish or other under the sea designs as curtains and a plastic bathmat for the rug in front of your toddler’s drawing table. Carry on the theme with bedding that has fish or mermaids on them.

Toddler Room Theme # 2: Princess

Every little girl dreams of becoming a princess right? Why not make your little girl’s dream come true with a princess themed bedroom. Pick pastel-colored paint for the walls such as pink, yellow, purple and light blue. You can use a sponge to paint the wall to achieve a splash effect. Or, take a wall and add a mural that reflects a castle or any symbol associated with princesses. Look for a bed with a castle headboard or choose a bedcover that display your toddler’s favorite princess character. Do not forget to complete the look with dainty accessories such as laced curtains, decorative lamps and posters in glass frames.

Toddler Room Theme # 3: Race Car

Race car is another popular toddler room theme for little boys. You can have the wall painted with a race car track or in a subdued red color. Look for a toddler bed formed like a race car. Decorate the room with race car flags, checkered curtains or use hubcaps and other fun car accessories.

Toddler Room Theme # 4: The Wild Side

A safari-themed room is quite easy to pull off. You can paint the walls with tiger or zebra stripes or paint one wall with this pattern and the other walls with a complementing color. Drape some mosquito netting from the ceiling or over your little one’s bed to achieve that safari vibe. Select stuffed animal versions of your toddler’s favorite jungle animals and decorate the ceiling with glow-in-the-dark stars. Go to your local craft store and purchase some leafy vines and vividly colored flowers and drape them near the ceiling or around the windows and door.

Toddler Room Theme # 5: Artistic

If your toddler is the creative type or shows an interest in books and letters, try making your toddler’s bedroom into a nest of learning. Pick one wall to leave open and free. On the lower half of the wall, set up a dry erase board. Not only will it encourage your little one to draw on it over and over again but a dry erase board is also an ideal place to hang up his work of art. You may also install a cork board to add more artistic feel to an artsy themed room. But do make sure that the pushpins are high enough that your toddler cannot reach them. Add a few bookshelves and let your creative munchkin build a library of favorite do-it-yourself crafts, coloring books, picture books, etc. Place a small drawing table and a chair in the corner or in the middle of the room so your little one has his own den to keep busy with crayons, markers and paints. A comfy armchair and a reading light are also great additions to finish off your toddler’s artistic themed room.

Toddler Room Theme # 6: Superhero

Superheroes are also one of the most favored toddler room themes. You can either have the walls painted with superheroes or paint them with bright colors that will match your toddler’s superhero themed room decors. Choose bedspreads and blankets that display your toddler’s favorite superhero, line up his action figures, superhero toys and books. You can also hang a cape and some masks on his bedpost or wall.

Toddler bedrooms are a fun way for parents to show their children how much they love them. When choosing a theme for your toddler’s bedroom, make sure you ask your toddler’s opinion to make decorating a success.

Whether your toddler is in the backyard, park or at the beach, wearing sunscreen all year round is a must. Here is a round-up of the best sunscreen for toddlers.

Aveeno Baby Sunblock SPF 55

At the top of the list of the best sunscreen for toddlers is Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection SPF 55. This is a great sunscreen from the manufacturer of one of the best loved children’s products. It has UVA and UVB protection and active photo barrier complex which offers better and long-lasting sun protection. It is easy to apply and gentle on your toddler’s delicate skin. It is fragrance-free and water-resistant so it will not wear from sand, sweat or water. Plus, it has colloidal oatmeal to keep your toddler’s skin from losing its natural moisture which is great for toddlers with dry skin. You can buy this sunscreen at your local drugstores for $9.25 for a 4.5 ounce sized bottle.

Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Mineral Kids

Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Mineral Kids is also of one of the best sunscreen for toddlers. This is a natural, budge-free sunscreen with a broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection of SPF 30. It is waterproof (40 minutes), paraben-free and made of chemical-free sunscreen ingredients. This sunscreen is lightweight and fast absorbing. It contains grape seed oil and vitamin E offering antioxidant protection and aloe vera, jojoba oil and sunflower seed oil to keep a toddler’s skin soft and moisturized. Visit the Alba Botanica website if you want to purchase one (costs $10.99).

Badger SPF Sunscreen For Face and Body

Badger sunscreen is one of the safest sunscreen for toddlers on the market. It has a natural, hydrating and soothing way to protect your toddler’s skin from sun damage without causing irritation or leaving your toddler’s skin oily. It contains essential oils such as jojoba oil, cocoa butter, shea butter and lime oil which leave a light and pleasing fragrance. This also offers UVA and UVB protection and is water-resistant. You can buy one for $10.99 from pharmacies and grocery stores.

California Baby Water-resistant Hypoallergenic Sunscreen SPF30+

California Baby is also considered one of the best sunscreen for toddlers. It provides utmost protection for the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers. This formula is specifically formulated for young skin and will shield it from the harmful rays of the sun. It is water-resistant, chemical and PABA free, non-comedogenic and non-staining. It is a treat to put on, smells great and comes in a very cute packaging. It is a 2.9 ounce sized bottle (for $22.98) making it very handy – you can stick it in your pocket or stash it in your purse.

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion SPF 50

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion SPF 50 is a 100% mineral based sunscreen. It is perfect for toddlers because it ensures optimal defense from the sun with its extra broad spectrum (long and short UVA and UVB rays) as it contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It is hypoallergenic so toddlers with very sensitive skin can use them. It is free of fragrance, sweat and water-resistant and has no chemical filters. Plus, it is easy to apply on skin and leaves a soft feeling. In addition, it is very affordable as it only costs $8.98.

Soleo Organics Sunscreen SPF 30+

Included in the list of the best sunscreen for toddlers is Soleo’s Organic Sunscreen SPF 30+. It is chemical free and is highly effective against sun damage. Made from all-natural ingredients, Soleo Organics Sunscreen SPF 30+ is ideal not just for young children but for the whole family as well. It uses the revolutionary micronized zinc technology to supply broad sun protection without leaving your toddler’s skin white. This brand is pricier (costs $22) but with the benefits and protection it offers your toddler’s skin, every dollar you spend is worth it.

Kiss My Face Sport Clear Spray Spritz

If you have a little athlete or a toddler who loves to spend almost all of his time outdoors, Kiss My Face Sport Clear Spray Spritz is your toddler’s perfect companion. It is quick-drying and sweat-resistant so it will not run into your toddler’s eyes and sting. It leaves a light coconut scent so your little one can stay sweet-smelling amidst the sweat. It is available in an 8 ounce sized bottle for $16.99.

Protecting your toddler’s skin is truly a must. These brands of sunscreen for toddlers are tried and tested by the experts and parents so they are guaranteed safe for the little ones.

What are some ways to teach leadership to children? Leadership is a skill that can be taught to children sans the pressure and guided through the process at their own pace. Developing leadership skills in children begins at home. The following are simple steps on how parents can develop leadership skills in children.

Hone Your Toddler’s Communication Skills

Good leaders are good communicators, and this can be achieved by teaching your toddler early. Work on your toddler’s reading and speaking. You can do this by reading something to your toddler and then asking him to narrate the story back to you. If he knows how to read, ask your little one to read you a book. Hold conversations with your toddler. Ask him anything under the sun – how his day was, what he did, his thoughts about the movie you watched together, events, etc. In addition, teach your toddler to talk in a calm and courteous manner and to listen carefully when someone is talking.

Promote Independence

Allow your toddler to do things for himself. If he says he can do it, let him do it. Give your toddler responsibilities by giving him age-appropriate chores such as setting up the table, making his bed and sorting clothes. Even if you might have to redo them, at least you are giving your child an opportunity to flourish. Also, encourage independent play. This is an excellent way to encourage your toddler to look for ways to entertain himself instead of providing him a solution.

Encourage Your Toddler To Volunteer

One effective way to develop leadership skills in children is to train your toddler to volunteer. You can encourage this by letting your toddler make decisions. For instance, he can take part in deciding what to eat for dinner, help plan a weekend trip or choose new sheets and linens for his bed.
Furthermore, why not do community service together. Visit soup kitchens, animal shelters and homeless shelters. Or, why not organize an outreach program or a garage sale and donate your earnings to charity. These experiences will help empower your toddler and teach him how to have a positive impact on others.

Hone Your Toddler’s Talents

Another very good way to instil leadership skills in children is to nurture their talents and interests. If your toddler loves to play basketball or likes playing the piano, enroll him in a class. Pursuing something he is passionate about will make him feel comfortable and later take on a leadership role.

Increase Social Interaction

The best way to practice leadership skills in children is through exposure. Organize play dates with other moms in your neighbourhood. Let him spend more time in the playground. Sign him up for art or singing lessons. By surrounding your toddler with people, you are giving him an opportunity not just to lead but to learn teamwork.

Let Your Toddler Express Himself

Encourage your toddler to express himself. When a child is free to voice out his thoughts, ideas and opinions, he feels more confident. You can help by encouraging him to speak out. But, do not disregard angry outbursts or impose silence. Instead, recommend alternative ways of self-expression. Learning how to speak tactfully and assertively are two traits of becoming a good leader.

Give Praise

When your little one accomplishes something, do not forget to praise it whether it is getting a high score in his assignment, learning how to tie his own shoes or writing cleanly or reading faster. You might say, “I am so proud of you that you know how to tie your shoelaces without any help!”. In your toddler’s young age, small steps mean a lot and he will feel good with his achievements. When he feels good, he builds up his self-esteem which is essential to developing leadership skills.

Teach By Example

Keep in mind that whatever parents do, children follow. Your toddler is your best imitator so whatever you say or do, he will surely mimic. Be the type of leader you want your toddler to be by being your toddler’s role model. Be involved. Help others. Volunteer. Take initiatives in everyday life. Explain to your toddler what you are doing and the reason why you are doing it.

Being a leader is not something innate, it has to be taught and nurtured. Every child has the potential to develop leadership skills. Hence, it is imperative for parents to develop leadership skills in children to guarantee them a brighter future.

Whooping cough is a very common childhood disease. Also known as pertussis, this disease affects the upper respiratory tract and is very contagious. It starts with cold-like symptoms such as mild fever and coughing that becomes more pronounced with frequent coughing fits especially at night. When not treated at once, this can cause severe damage and can be life-threatening. For this reason, it is very important for every parent to know the treatment for whooping cough in children. Here are some tried and tested tips from the experts.

Consult With Your Pediatrician

The first thing parents should do when treating whopping cough in children is to consult with a pediatrician. Whooping cough is a bacterial infection; therefore, it can be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics can also prevent the infection from spreading. The doctor can prescribe you one which your toddler will have to take for two weeks. In addition, your pediatrician may also suction mucus from the respiratory system and give extra oxygen.

Get Plenty of Rest

At home, see to it that your little one gets plenty of rest. Let your toddler rest in bed and avoid letting him play physically demanding activities. Adequate rest will help your toddler boost up his immune system. To keep your little one from getting bored, do quiet activities such as listening to music, reading a book, drawing or completing a jigsaw puzzle.

Hydrate, Hydrate

Another very effective treatment for whooping cough in children is water. Whooping cough can cause a toddler to get dehydrated; hence, it is very important that you make sure your toddler is getting enough liquid in his body to replenish the lost fluids. Water, oral rehydration solution, soups, fresh fruit juice and tea are great sources of fluids that also provide nutrients.

Use A Cool Mist Humidifier

Run a cool mist vaporizer or humidifier in your home, especially in your toddler’s bedroom. A cool mist humidifier can treat whooping cough in children as it helps loosen up respiratory emissions and relieve irritated lungs and nasal passages to help with your little one’s breathing and ease his discomfort.

Offer Small Meals

A toddler with whooping cough will have a poor appetite and may vomit because of the coughing. So, feed your toddler smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Smaller meals are easier to digest than heavier meals. For instance, instead of feeding your toddler three regular meals, switch to six smaller meals.

Avoid The Irritants

Keep your sick toddler from irritants that could aggravate his condition. You can do this by cleaning your home frequently. Sterilize your toddler’s clothes, linens and toys. Make hand washing a habit not just for your toddler but for you and the rest of your family as well. Avoid exposing your toddler to people, especially those who are also sick. In addition, see to it your toddler is not exposed to tobacco smoke, aerosol sprays, fireplaces and other substances that can irritate his respiratory tract.

Give Your Toddler Pain Relievers

If your toddler has symptoms such as fever and sore throat, medications such as children’s acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) and ibuprofen (e.g. Motrin) can be effective in relieving your toddler’s uneasiness. But, do make sure you ask for your pediatrician’s go signal first as well as the recommended dosage before giving them to your toddler.

Never give your toddler aspirin or cough suppressants. Aspirin can cause Reye’s syndrome – a rare but lethal disease and suppressants can hamper your toddler’s ability to heal.

Use Nose Drops

If your toddler’s nasal passageway is blocked due to mucus, you can use a nose drop to clear the passageway to help your toddler breathe more comfortably. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist what nose drop your toddler can use.

Go To The Hospital

If the above methods for treating whooping cough in children are ineffective, then your little one may need to be admitted in the hospital. Toddlers are more likely to get hospitalized because they are at a greater risk of incurring complications such as pneumonia, sinusitis and lung collapse. Your toddler will be observed and thoroughly examined. Intravenous (IV) fluids may also be given to prevent dehydration.

With the appropriate treatment, you can make sure that your toddler recuperates quickly from his bout of whooping cough. Also, if your toddler has not been vaccinated, then it would be best to make an appointment with your toddler’s pediatrician so your precious once can be immunized with the whooping cough vaccine.

The cold season is a time for viruses to spread which causes colds and flu in children. However, it can also cause frostbite in children. Frostbite can be very painful and uncomfortable for toddlers. Thus, it is very important for parents to know about frostbite in children. Here is a guide that will help you learn the causes, signs, treatment and prevention of frostbite in children.

What causes frostbite in children?

Frostbite in children is basically caused by exposure to very low temperature which exposes certain areas of the body such as the ears, nose, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes to extreme cold which can become frozen. This is because the skin and the body tissue beneath freezes. A toddler’s skin becomes very cold, then numb, hard and pallid. Toddlers are more at risk of incurring frostbite because of their sudden drops in body temperatures when in the outdoors.

What are the signs and symptoms?

The following are some common signs and symptoms of frostbite in children:

Skin Discoloration

The most common indication that a toddler has frostbite is when the skin exposed to extreme cold turns red and inflamed. If the skin is exposed for a long period of time, it will then appear to be white or purplish in color (looks like a bruise).

Skin Cracks or Has Blisters

A part of the skin that has been frostbitten feels odd when you touch it. Some toddlers may experience cracking and blistering which can be very discomforting. The skin can also appear shiny and puffy or flaky and hard to touch.

Strange Skin Sensations

A toddler with frostbite might feel a burning or prickling sensation. As the frostbite exacerbates, the toddler might feel numbness and the pain might subside but this just actually means that the frostbite is aggravating.

Speech and Dexterity Problems

Another sign of frostbite in children is when a toddler has trouble speaking due to the loss of body heat. You may also notice a toddler having difficulty with his dexterity.

How is frostbite in children treated?

If you notice that one or more of these symptoms are experienced by your toddler, then it is very essential that you follow these tips for treating frostbite in children.

Warm The Body

Warm the body as soon as possible without placing heat directly on the affected areas. Do not touch your toddler’s affected skin. Instead, move your toddler to a warm location. Remove his wet clothing and dress your toddler in dry and warm clothes. Wrapping his body with a blanket can also help.

Seek Medical Help

Immediate medical attention is necessary as your toddler is at risk of infection or permanent tissue damage. The doctor will be able to prescribe good recommendations for treating your toddler’s frostbite (e.g. applying topical creams or skin grafting for severe cases). The doctor will also check for hypothermia (extreme low body temperature).

Re-warm Affected Areas Gradually

For superficial or minor cases of frostbite, what you need to do is to re-warm the affected parts slowly. You can gently tuck your toddler’s hands under your armpits. Applying warm compress also helps. You can also immerse your toddler’s fingers and toes in lukewarm (not hot) water – about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Giving your toddler something warm to drink such as milk, tea, water or soup can also provide comfort.

A word of advice: Never rub your toddler’s fingers or use a heating device (e.g. hairdryer) to warm the affected areas as this will only increase the damage in the skin tissue.

How can frostbite be prevented?

Supervise Your Toddler Outdoors

Letting your toddler play during cold weather is perfectly fine. But, do make sure to keep the time he spends outside short, say 15 to 20 minutes. Make it a point to check his face, ears, fingers and toe every so often so you can check for signs of frostbite.

Dress Your Toddler For The Weather

Another way to prevent frostbite in children is to dress toddlers appropriately. Meaning, you have to make sure you dress your little one in layers. Have your toddler wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, jacket, scarf, hat, mittens, socks and well-fitting boots.

Keep Your Toddler Dry

See to it your toddler stays dry outdoors. Whenever he gets wet, remove wet clothes at once because moisture draws off heat from the skin.

Always be vigilant during cold, windy days. Wind makes the skin lose heat faster, which enhances your toddler’s risk of frostbite.

Nothing is more painful than having a child who was once close to you become so distant because of the deliberate negative influence of an ex-spouse. This is a very difficult challenge any parent can face but thankfully, there are steps that can be taken on how to stop parental alienation.

What Is Parental Alienation?

Parental Alienation (PA), also known as Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS) is a disorder wherein a child rejects a parent the child once loved. This is often common to children with parents who are in the middle of a divorce or involved in a custody battle. Parental alienation is a form of brainwashing wherein one parent consciously causes a child to turn against the other parent.
Parental alienation can lead to the child hating, disrespecting, being apathetic and refusing to see the other parent which can completely abolish parent-child relationship.

How Can You Stop Parental Alienation?

Stop Trying To Rationalize

One common method on how to stop parental alienation is to reason with the child, with the alienating parent or both. However, this method is usually ineffective. Why? Rationalizing with the child or the alienating parent will only force the other parent to try harder and will most likely result to confrontations, making the situation worse than it already is. You might become so frustrated with your toddler’s indifference that you will lose your temper. When you lose your temper, there is a bigger possibility that the alienating parent will seek court orders and accuse you of child abuse.

Remain Calm

Keeping one’s calm is one of the most important tips on how to stop parental alienation. Try your best to keep a level head and stay in control even if you are about to explode or when you feel you have been wronged.

Be Present

Disappearing may be the easiest route to take when a child is so difficult to get through to. However, it is very essential that you remain by your toddler’s side even if your toddler refuses you. Be present and follow the visitation schedule to a T.

Continue Being A Parent

Another way how to stop parental alienation is to keep being a parent to the toddler. Be consistent and affectionate. Make sure you are firm in your expectations of your toddler. Do not give in or overlook your toddler’s inappropriate behaviour just because you feel pressured.

Bond With Your Toddler

Focus on having fun with your toddler instead of talking about the situation or convincing your toddler to change his mind. Read books and play together. Look at family photo albums or reminisce the good times. Eat at your toddler’s favorite restaurant. Do things you both enjoyed doing together to help your toddler remember the memories the two of you have made. Most importantly, let your toddler know you love him very much.

Do Not Say Anything Negative About The Alienating Parent

You may be angry with the alienating parent, but never say anything bad about the other parent especially when your toddler is around. Continue treating the alienating parent with respect or at least be civil even if you are provoked. This is an effective way to show to your toddler that you do not wish your toddler and the other parent harm.

Avoid Blaming Your Toddler

It is okay to reprimand your toddler’s bad behaviour but never blame your toddler for what is happening. Keep in mind that it is not your toddler’s fault. The problem is between you and the alienating parent. Keep the issue between you and the other parent. Your toddler is the worst victim of parental alienation and is most likely to incur long-term emotional damage.

Do Not Be Intimidated

Do not feel frightened with the alienating parent. This limits the power the alienating parent has. When you show you are intimidated with the alienating parent, the more the parent is stimulated to bully and terrorize you.

Stop Negotiating

In addition, do not negotiate with the alienating parent. Alienating parents are not interested in any form of settlement since they will not consider any compromises.

Find Therapy For Your Toddler

You can also seek therapy for your toddler to stop parental alienation. Getting expert help is a very effective method to help your child gain support during this trying time.

Parental alienation is a terrible and hurting experience for any parent. It gives no guarantee that your efforts will be successful but you should never give up in making your child feel loved.

Without a doubt, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast can benefit a toddler in a lot of ways. It can boost a toddler’s immune system, improve his mood and increase attention span. Plus, making breakfast a part of a toddler’s daily routine paves the way for healthy eating habits and a fit body. Check out these popular easy breakfast recipes for children that are sure to entice your toddler to open his mouth and fill his tummy.

Rainbow Pancakes

What You Will Need:

•    Pancake mix
•    Food coloring or pureed fruits and vegetables (try blackberry, mango, raspberry or carrots) to make different colors
•    Non-stick cooking spray
•    Maple or chocolate syrup
•    Whipped cream topping (optional)

Procedure:

•    Prepare pancake batter by following the instructions on the box.
•    Separate the pancake batter into small bowls (depending on how many your toddler wants to eat).
•    Mix food coloring or pureed fruits and vegetables to make colored batter.
•    Preheat pan on medium-low heat.
•    Spritz cooking spray on the frying pan to keep the pancakes from sticking.
•    Pour the bowl of colored pancake batter into the pan and cook until ready to flip.
•    Cook on the other side for another minute and place on the plate.
•    Continue cooking the rest of the colored batter and stack them.

Sunrise Parfait

What You Will Need:

•    ½ cup cereal or granola
•    1 cup mixed berries (sliced)
•    1 cup sugar-free vanilla yogurt

Procedure:

•    Layer the sliced mixed berries, yogurt and cereal in a cup or bowl.
•    Serve right away and enjoy.

Breakfast Burrito

What You Will Need:

•    2 eggs
•    Red, yellow or green peppers (minced)
•    Bacon or sausage
•    Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
•    Whole-grain tortilla
•    Salt
•    Pepper

Procedure:

•    In a pan, cook the bacon or sausage over medium heat.
•    Place the cooked bacon or sausage in a paper towel to drain the excess fat and set aside.
•    Crack the eggs and add the minced peppers. Use a whisk to beat the eggs over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
•    Lay tortilla on a plate and spoon equal amounts of the scrambled egg and shredded cheese and place the bacon on top.
•    Fold or roll the tortilla from the bottom.

Breakfast Mini Pizzas

What You Will Need:

•    1 large egg (beaten)
•    2 tablespoons prepared marinara sauce
•    2 tablespoons grated Italian cheese blend
•    2 slices pepperoni
•    1 whole-wheat English muffin (divided and toasted)

Procedure:

•    Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
•    Spray non-stick cooking spray to a small skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
•    Add egg and whisk for 1 to 2 minutes.
•    Spread marinara sauce on English muffin halves. Top with scrambled egg, cheese and pepperoni.
•    Place muffins in the oven for 3 minutes or until cheese has melted.

Framed Eggs

What You Will Need:
•    Egg
•    Wheat bread
•    Butter or margarine
•    Cookie cutters

Procedure:

•    Cut a shape in the middle of the bread using a cookie cutter.
•    Melt butter or margarine over low heat and spread both sides of the bread with the mixture.
•    Place bread in pan and fill the hole with a beaten egg.
•    Turn bread and egg over and cook for 3 minutes.

Bagel Gone Bananas

What You Will Need:

•    1 whole-wheat bagel (toasted and cut into half)
•    2 tablespoons nut butter (peanut, cashew or almond)
•    1 small, sliced banana
•    1 teaspoon honey
•    Pinch of salt

Procedure:

•    Mix nut butter, honey and salt in a small bowl.
•    Divide the mixture among bagel halves and top with banana slices.

Kraz (Spinach and Cheese Egg dish)

What You Will Need:

•    10 oz. chopped spinach
•    6 eggs
•    2 pints cottage cheese
•    1/2 lb. Cheddar cheese (grated)
•    1 cup melted butter
•    5 tablespoons flour

Procedure:

•    Cook and drain spinach according to package instructions.
•    Combine butter and flour.
•    In a separate bowl, mix eggs and add cottage cheese, melted butter, cheddar cheese and cooked spinach.
•    Place in baking dish and cook at 350 degrees for an hour.

Preparing breakfast for your toddler is as easy as pie. All it needs is a little creativity. With these healthy and easy breakfast recipes for children, you can give your toddler a boost in the morning sans the fuss.

One of the most important characteristics you can nurture in your child is optimism. Raising an optimistic child teaches a toddler to be capable in overcoming challenges much better than a toddler who is filled with pessimism. Here are some tips on how you can raise an optimistic child.

Set A Positive Example

The first step to raising an optimistic child is to become an optimist yourself. Keep in mind that you are your toddler’s role model – your toddler will mimic whatever you say and do. Sure, the world may not be a bed of roses but never let your struggles and complaints get the best of you. Make a decision to focus more on the positive – the things that make you laugh or things that would excite your little one. When you attain success, give yourself credit for a job well done. When facing hurdles, look for the silver lining rather than feel depressed.

Help Your Toddler Deal With His Thoughts

In order to raise an optimistic child, you have to help your toddler recognize his thoughts. Ask your toddler how he is feeling and what he is thinking. Listen attentively. For instance, if he got a low score in his Math subject, ask him what he felt and thought at that time. Then, help your toddler cope with frustrations and hurts. This teaches your toddler not to exaggerate things and put things in perspective.

Keep Your Toddler Busy

All too often, toddlers complain that they are bored. Such boredom can make a toddler dreary and too weak to let life in. Hence, it is very important to discourage boredom. Keep your little one busy and entertained by encouraging him to do various fun activities. Play games. Read a book. Doodle. Go out. Allow your toddler to spend more time in the playground or do whatever he wants to do (as long as he is safe). An optimistic child knows how to find ways to make himself happy, thus making life more interesting.

Encourage Success

Help your toddler experience success at an early age. Instead of doing things for your toddler, let your little one do things for himself. Give your toddler responsibilities at home such as putting his toys away, setting the table, sorting socks, etc. By doing these things, your toddler is achieving success which helps develop self-esteem and optimism.

Give Praise

It is very essential for a parent to acknowledge a toddler’s success. For instance, if he got a high score in his homework, say, “You did so well on your homework. I am proud of you!” or “You are such a hard worker, baby!”. Giving a child credit for his own accomplishments will make him feel good and think good thoughts.

Make Room For Mistakes

Raising an optimistic child means allowing the child to make mistakes. If your toddler wants to try out something new, encourage him to do it. If your toddler succeeds, then very good. But if he fails, persuade your toddler to try again. Explain to your toddler that people make mistakes and help him gauge what he can do so he can do better next time. Remember not to use negative labels or compare your toddler to others when he makes mistakes as this can permanently impact (in a negative way) his outlook in life.

Help Your Toddler Look For The Bright Side

For you to raise an optimistic child, you have to help your little one see the good in every bad situation. For instance, if he is unable to play outside because it is raining, play indoor games or make hot chocolate together instead. By working on the problem together, your toddler is able to understand that while things may not always go the way he wants it to be, there is still hope.

Show Your Toddler Affection

Make it a point to show your precious one you love him. Kiss, say loving words, give hugs and pats on the back and cuddle from time to time. Spend some one-on-one time every day. Studies show that children who are shown plenty of affection at a young age are able to self-soothe, a very important skill parents need to teach their children for them to successfully raise an optimistic child.

An optimistic child is full of energy, promise and brimming with happiness in spite of adversities. Helping your toddler become an optimist will make your little one believe that life is good and help him grow into a successful individual.