WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR CHILD:
FOUR THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
1. Your child is developing a distinct personality. The days of reading her mind or interpreting her cries are drawing to a close. She'll begin pointing to objects she wants and will be able to take your hand to lead you where she'd like to go. This is an amazing time in your child's development. You'll quickly learn what she likes and doesn't like, where she'd like to go and where she'd rather not visit. Enjoy watching her every move.
2. Your child can now understand simple rules. For months you've lived on your baby's schedule. Now that he has grown into an energetic toddler, he can understand simple rules. He's old enough now to learn, 'after lunch, it's naptime' and 'only two TV programmes before dinner'. It may be difficult to say no to such an adorable face, but remember that children, despite their protests, crave limits. Set reasonable boundaries and help your child start living within them. Make sure you can live with them, too, since the most important part of setting limits is sticking to them.
3. Your child is learning how to run and climb. A few months ago you thought it would never happen. You were convinced that you would always have to carry your little one wherever you wanted to go. Now, seemingly overnight, she wants to run on her own. She's also capable of climbing on, over and off every flat surface in the house. Climbing allows her to further develop basic motor skills while providing her with a new view of everything in the house. Watch out! Be sure to supervise her carefully and provide safe areas where she can climb.
4. Your child is becoming a budding artist. Have you noticed your little one trying to take every pen, pencil and marker out of your hand? Scribbling is sure to quickly become a favourite pastime. Gather lots of paper and non-toxic crayons, and watch the little artist at work. Set up a special gallery where he can show off his creations. (The fridge works well for this purpose.)
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YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH AND SAFETY
Protect your child against carbon-monoxide poisoning. You've installed smoke detectors throughout your home, but have you given a second thought to installing a carbon monoxide detector? Carbon monoxide gas is both odourless and colourless, but it can be deadly. Without proper detectors, there is no way to know of its presence. Protect your family now by installing detectors on all levels of your home.
Make television viewing safe for your children. There has been much debate about television's effects on children, which can range from eyestrain to exposure to violent images. But TV can also be a wonderful educational tool, and can provide a few minutes of much-needed entertainment and relaxation. Here's what you can do to limit the effects these images have on your children:
Temper your toddler's sweet tooth. There are many things that you can do to reduce sugar intake while satisfying your little one's sweet tooth. Fresh fruits are a wonderful alternative to desserts. Not only will your child be enjoying a sweet treat, she'll also be adding much-needed nutrients to her diet. Be creative and enjoy these foods with her. Don't ban sugar altogether, but do limit the number of desserts your child eats. Save sweet puddings for special occasions. You'll find yourself well on the way to a healthier diet.
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FUN ACTIVITIES
Use bath time as an entertaining way to calm your baby after a busy day. Help make the transition from playtime to bedtime fun. Run a warm bath, grab some bubbles, bath toys, soap and a big soft towel, and head for the bathroom. A few minutes later your baby will be relaxed, clean and dressed for bed. (You may be wet and in need of a comfortable change of clothes, too.) Once you've mopped up, head for the bedroom for a little snuggle time before turning out the lights. (Remember: Never leave your child unattended near any amount of water.)
Put on a 'puppet' show for your child. Create some simple finger puppets, capture his attention and narrate a story. Use these stories to teach simple lessons or act out one of his favourite books.
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SIMPLE WAYS TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Five Secrets to Being a Successful Single Mum
Single parenting is perhaps one of life's greatest challenges. Take a moment to get to know yourself better and cultivate five important traits to help you flourish as a single mother:
1. Wisdom. You don't need to know everything. Simply know how to put things in perspective.
2. Wit. Maintain your sense of humour.
3. Dignity. Take pride in who you are and the amazing job you've undertaken.
4. Confidence. Take care of yourself, respect yourself and cherish your self-assuredness.
5. Courage. Once you're confident with who and where you are, go out on a limb and try new things.
Most importantly, remember that motherhood is one of life's most important careers and is a wonderfully rewarding challenge. Keep up the good work.
Minimise the morning rush hour.
Take a few minutes to organise your morning routine so it's less rushed and frustrating. You'll save a great deal of time and get your day off to a wonderful start.