5 Reasons Why Parents Enjoy Audio Books

Audiobooks are a great way for parents to help their children improve their reading skills, expand their vocabulary, and entertain them. They provide the opportunity to hear fluent reading with a bit of flair, help their child associate reading with pleasure, and teach them to visualize a story by using their imagination rather than pictures. They are also a great way to rest your voice and get them to sleep after reading a bedtime story. Some of my children's favorite books are The Story of Charlotte's Web, Jamie Lee Curtis's personal collection, and "Tell me about the night I was born."

A quick test! With the press of a button, how can you do the following:

Can you help your children improve their reading skills?

Expand their vocabulary?

Can you help them sit quietly (and willingly!)? and entertain them as well?

Simply listen to audiobooks!

That's correct. Listening to books on tape, Mom and Dad, provides all of these advantages and more.

Did you know that your children's intelluctual capacity will be greater than their reading ability for a significant portion of their childhood? That is, they can understand material that they would be unable to read when it is read aloud to them. Isn't it fascinating?

My kids enjoy audiobooks, and I appreciate that they do. As a homeschooling mother of four children, I read aloud frequently. Audiobooks allow me to rest my voice.

When you're in the car running errands, you can listen to books on tape. Naptime and bedtime are also popular times to read a story. (And if your kids are anything like mine, you tire out long before they do, so books on tape are a lifesaver for getting them to sleep after you've read them a bedtime story!)

Listening to audio books improves your child's ability to listen, which is critical for academic success.

Audio books also provide your child with the opportunity to hear fluent reading with a bit of flair... many of them are read by the author or professional actors.

If your child is having difficulty reading, audio books help your child associate reading with pleasure...which is critical if your child is to develop a lifelong love of reading!

Audio books teach your child to visualize a story by using their imagination rather than pictures (watching television, on the other hand, trains the brain to be lazy and rely on images).

Why not put your child on the fast track to reading success by simply pressing the play button? Here are some of my children's favorite books to get you started:

The Story of Charlotte's Web (read by the Author, E.B. White)

Jamie Lee Curtis's personal collection (And I dare you not to cry while listening to "Tell me about the night I was born!"

Parenting Suggestions to Encourage Your Child to Exercise

The most important details are that 30% of U.S. adults 20 and older are obese, and that the proportion of young people who are overweight has more than tripled since 1980. In a world where walking is limited, school P.E. programs are being cut, and cars, elevators, and buses eliminate our natural opportunity to exercise, we must make a concerted effort to incorporate physical activity into our and our children's daily lives. Exercise can take many forms and can be a lot of fun, and with a little imagination, parents can incorporate some enjoyable physical activity into their parenting style. 

Parents must prioritize spending quality time with their children through physical activity. Toys and equipment that encourage them to be active while having fun should be provided, such as bikes, scooters, hockey sticks, and baseball bats. Encourage them to find sports and activities that will boost their self-esteem, and deactivate screen time during designated times. By modeling a healthy lifestyle, parents can help their children develop lifelong habits and attitudes toward exercise and physical activity.

Was it easier to be a parent forty years ago?

As a new millennium mom, I fantasize about parenting in a world where streets are safe and parents can let their children run freely through the neighborhood, their bodies naturally challenged by play.

Instead, before the slam of the car door fades and the backpack falls to the floor, the TV is turned on, and the last few hours of daylight are lost in a haze of video games and overly processed snack foods.

Even the most concerned, well-meaning parent can find themselves helpless in the face of marketing genius and instant gratification. Exercise and carrot sticks are up against Xboxes, SpongeBob, and potato chips.

The evidence is all around us. Too many North Americans' health is jeopardized due to unhealthy lifestyles, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity)

According to the most recent National Center for Health Statistics data, 30 percent of U.S. adults 20 and older – or more than 60 million people – are obese. According to the CDC, the proportion of young people who are overweight has more than tripled since 1980.

Why should I be concerned because my children are not obese?

Are your children normal? You're doing a great job as a parent. However, in a world where walking is limited, school P.E. programs are being cut, and cars, elevators, and buses eliminate our natural opportunity to exercise, we must make a concerted effort to incorporate physical activity into our and our children's daily lives.

Despite all of the benefits of physical activity, the majority of Americans are sedentary. (www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/contributing factors.htm). Inactive children are more likely to grow up to be inactive adults. (www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4596)

So, as parents, how can we get our children to move?

"Every day, children and adolescents should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity," according to the American Heart Association.

The good news is that exercise can take many forms and can be a lot of fun! With a little imagination, you can easily incorporate some enjoyable physical activity into your parenting style.

1. Show the way

You must lead by example. Children, particularly younger children, naturally mimic their parents. So, take care of your own health and make physical activity a priority in your life.

2. Carry it out together

In today's hectic world, we must prioritize spending quality time with our children. What better way to bond than through physical activity? Parents must play with their children because they cannot be left alone in the neighborhood.

3. Make it enjoyable.

Play some music and get up and dance. Tag is a game. The roller blade. Basically, just have fun. Toys and equipment that encourage them to be active while having fun should be provided.

Bikes, scooters, hockey sticks, and baseball bats will keep your children active and moving. Ride-on toys that get preschool children moving, such as pedal cars, big wheels, and tricycles, are always a good parenting choice.

4. Encourage them

Encouragement and support can be used to create positive reinforcements. Assist them in locating sports and activities that will boost their self-esteem. Attend their sporting events and show them that you care whether they win or lose.

5. Deactivate it

Of course, we need to limit the amount of time our children spend watching TV and playing video games. However, make certain that you do so in a positive manner. If they are upset because you just turned off their favorite show, they may not be enthusiastic about going rollerblading with you.

Allow screen time during designated times, preferably after homework and physical activity, such as in the evenings or on Saturday mornings when tired parents may need a few extra minutes of sleep.

Including more physical activity in your family's routine will make you all feel better and allow you to spend more time together. Most importantly, by modeling a healthy lifestyle, you will help your children develop lifelong habits and attitudes toward exercise and physical activity.

5 Questions Every Parent Should Ask When Potty Training Their Child

When potty training a toddler, it is important to be prepared for the difficult transition from diapers to potty. To do this, parents should ask themselves three questions: is the child prepared, do we need a toilet seat, and are we prepared mentally for the transition. If the child is not ready, wait a few weeks and try again. If they are, transition to a potty seat insert that fits on your regular toilet, removing the need for potty cleanup. A potty doll is not required for potty training, but it can be a useful tool during the pre-potty training phase.

It can be used to demonstrate what should happen on the doll and allow the child to warm up to the concept. Rewards can include stickers, candy, or a tracking chart. Simple rewards can be an effective potty training tool, but they are not required as long as you convey to your child that you are proud of him. Take a few minutes to answer these potty training questions for yourself and then go over them with your spouse to make sure you're all on the same page before you begin potty training.

If you're thinking about starting to potty train your toddler, there are a few questions you should ask yourself first. Being well prepared for the difficult transition from diapers to potty is one of the best things you can do to make this as easy on your child as possible.

1. Is My Child Prepared?

You want to start potty training at the appropriate age. When your child becomes more interested in you going to the potty, tells you right away when the diaper is wet, or pulls on it and appears uncomfortable with it, he or she is ready. If your child does not appear to be ready despite the signs, wait a few weeks and try again.

2. Am I Prepared?

It is equally important that you are prepared as your child is. Prepare yourself mentally for your child's diaper-to-potty transition. You will require a great deal of patience and understanding. There will be resentment, tears, and the occasional mishap. Prepare for this so that you can remain calm and supportive of your child.

3. Do We Need A Toilet Seat?

A regular toilet can be frightening to a child. Your child will have to hold on to avoid falling in because the seat is quite large. Furthermore, "things" vanish in there when you flash, which can be a frightening thought for your child. Initially, many children prefer to use a potty chair. After a few weeks, you should be able to transition to a potty seat insert that fits on your regular toilet, removing the need for potty cleanup.

4. Do We Need A Potty Doll?

A potty doll is not required for potty training, but it can be a useful tool. A potty doll pees like a real child and typically comes with diapers, panties, and a potty chair. The doll can be extremely helpful during the pre-potty training phase, when you are introducing your child to the concept of using the potty instead of the diaper. You can demonstrate what should happen on the doll and allow your child to warm up to the concept by playing with the doll in the same way. When you're ready, place the doll right next to your child on the potty.

5. Should Potty Training Reward Be Used?

Before you begin potty training, you should decide whether you will use rewards to encourage your child or simply make him feel good about his accomplishments by being his cheerleader. Simple potty training rewards can include stickers, candy such as jellybeans or M&M's, or a tracking chart for larger rewards (i.e. If you use the potty for an entire week without accident, you get a small toy). Simple rewards can be an effective potty training tool, but they are not required as long as you convey to your child that you are proud of him.

Take a few minutes to answer these potty training questions for yourself, and then go over them with your spouse to make sure you're all on the same page before you begin potty training your child. It will assist you in providing your child with a clear picture of what you are both attempting to accomplish and will reduce any confusion.

5 Love Languages and Those Who Help at Home

The most important details in this text are that it is important to recognize the help that family members provide to the household and to express appreciation in a way that they recognize it. It is also important to determine the primary love language of each family member and to conduct research on them to determine their primary love language. If you express your appreciation in one of the four secondary love languages that rank below your husband's primary love language, he may not feel fully appreciated and may gradually reduce his input over time. 

The most important details in this text are that each individual has a unique love language that they use to express gratitude, gifts, words of affirmation, quality time, and acts of service. To help a family member or friend who is feeling unappreciated, take an inventory to determine their primary love language and try to show them three small doses of love in THEIR preferred love language. After 20 days, send them an email and tell them about the differences that resulted from their giving love in the way they needed it.

Work done around a house or apartment has to be some of the least appreciated work ever created. Whether it's weekend yard work, plumbing emergencies, or daily dishes and errands, we often overlook the help that our spouse and children provide on a regular basis.

Part of the reason that being at home is so exhausting for some is that the ongoing work of maintaining a regular life is hardly regarded as special.

We never forget to express our gratitude for trips to Hawaii or Prague (gift love-language).

We are giddy with delight after a full-body massage (touch love-language).

We cherish all of our one-on-one conversations (quality time love-language).

But what about charitable contributions? Do we recognize them? .................... on occasion.

When someone in your household consistently contributes to the household's survival, be sure to thank them. The trick is to express your appreciation/love in such a way that they recognize it.

Determine the primary love language of each family member who contributes to the smooth operation of your household. Then show them your love by speaking to them in that language. Assume your husband mows the lawn and fixes electrical problems around the house. He irons, walks the dog, changes the baby in the middle of the night, and hand waxes your car after every wash. Now, he is clearly expressing his love for you and your family through the language of gifts of service.

Does this imply that you must return the favor in order for him to feel loved? Sometimes. In some cases, being catered to or waited on will make him feel loved and appreciated. He may, however, have grown up watching his father do those things and simply believes that is how to show love. This is one way he contributes, but it does not demonstrate that it is his love language.

Conduct research on him. Determine his PRIMARY love language so that when he contributes to the household in any way, you will know how to express your gratitude appropriately.

I bring this up because if you express your appreciation in one of the four secondary love languages that rank below your husband's primary love language, he may not feel fully appreciated. He may eventually feel taken advantage of, and he may gradually reduce his input in this manner over time. So, if you want the assistance to continue, be sure to express your gratitude in HIS primary language.

For example, if "Tomprimary "'s language is touch, then hugs, kisses, and caresses would be appropriate ways to express gratitude.

If "Tomprimary "'s language is gifts, perhaps a new golf club or video game would be a nice way to say Thank You.

If "Tomprimary "'s love language is words of affirmation, be sure to praise him both during and after his service.

If "Tom" values quality time, go somewhere alone to hang out and spend time together, or put the kids to bed early so you can cuddle and talk.

Finally, if "Tom" values love primarily through the giving and receiving of acts of service, find ways to contribute to his life through acts of service—pick up dry cleaning, wash his car, have dinner ready, get the house and kids cleaned before he gets home, and so on.

As I've previously stated to several of you.... We speak five distinct languages.

It is not enough to choose one and tell everyone in the house.

If your child is a "touch" child and you primarily use words of affirmation to show love... Most likely, they are not feeling ALL of the love you are attempting to express. A simple hug or toe-touching while watching a video would go a long way for that "touch" kid.

Every individual is distinct. And as a result, they create their own world. It is possible to show someone a LOT of love while they complain that they are not loved at all / or not enough. This is a simple and heartbreaking truth. The reason for this is that they register love primarily in a love language that you do not use to reciprocate.

So let's get that fixed!!

If you have a family member or a friend who is feeling unappreciated, take an inventory to determine their primary love language.

Then, for 20 days, try to show them three small doses of love in THEIR preferred love language.

After 20 days, send me an email and tell me about all the differences that resulted from your giving love in the way they needed it.

Until the next time

5 Excellent Ways to Improve Your Children's Conscience

Developing a strong conscience in children is important for their moral and ethical growth. Here are five excellent ways to improve your children's conscience:

Lead by example: Children learn by example, so it's important for parents to model the behaviors and values that they hope to see in their children. This includes honesty, empathy, and responsibility.

Encourage empathy: Teach your children to put themselves in others' shoes and to consider how their actions might impact others. This can help them develop a sense of compassion and understanding.

Provide clear expectations and consequences: Children need to understand what is expected of them and what will happen if they don't meet those expectations. Be clear and consistent with your rules and consequences.

Foster independence: Encouraging children to make decisions for themselves and to be responsible for their actions can help them develop a strong sense of right and wrong.

Encourage open communication: Encourage your children to talk to you about their feelings, thoughts, and actions. Listen to their perspectives and help them understand why certain behaviors are right or wrong.

By taking these steps, parents can help their children develop a strong sense of morality and a well-formed conscience, which will serve them well throughout their lives.

It's also important to remember that every child is unique and may develop a conscience at their own pace. Additionally, children are exposed to a variety of influences in their lives, including peers, media, and cultural norms. As a result, it's important for parents to continue to guide and support their children as they navigate the complexities of ethical decision-making.

In addition to the steps listed above, parents can also engage their children in activities and discussions that encourage moral development. For example, parents can encourage their children to participate in volunteer work, or to read and discuss books that deal with ethical dilemmas.

Finally, it's important to recognize that a strong conscience is a lifelong journey. Parents should continue to support and guide their children as they grow and mature, helping them to understand and make ethical decisions that are in line with their values and beliefs.

Curiosity is a way of life for children. They learn a lot in life, are naturally gifted with intuition, and are open to everything they come across.

Everything appears to be of interest to them. That is why they are curious about so many things. It is, indeed, a sign of progress.

Parents must assist their children in developing their conscience, which will be an excellent means of gaining spiritual experiences. They will learn about self-esteem and moral values as a result of these.

Of course, parents want their children to be aware of and familiar with positive values in life. So, as parents, what can you do? Here are five things you can do to improve their conscience:

• Set a good example. What you say and do on a daily basis reflects your worldview. If you say nice things to your children, they will do the same. Children are excellent imitators. It is critical that you say and do nice things at all times and in all places.

• Pay attention when they speak. Sometimes your children will ask you questions that seem ridiculous to adults, such as "Mom, where does the sun sleep when it gets dark?" Listen to them and respond seriously, "The sun never sleeps. It is visible in other parts of the world." Children will feel respected by their parents if they listen.

• Display joy. Show and share your joy, positive energy, and thoughts with the children. If you're happy, they will be as well. This teaches the children that life can be enjoyable.

• Expose them to nature. Tell them that everything that happens in the world is interconnected and has a purpose. Water, for example, is required to irrigate plants, and plants provide food for other living creatures.

• Be adaptable in your rules. Children should be taught what they should and should not do. However, keep an eye on their development. There will come a time when they will be able to decide what they want to do. Children will remain cheerful and expressive if you are flexible with your rules.

Those five suggestions are actually quite simple to implement. Simply imagine yourself as your children's parents and friends.

Remember that children are excellent imitators. If you do or say something bad, there's a good chance they'll do or say the same thing.

Parenting Styles

Parenting is a unique process that each parent does in their own way. There are four general parenting styles: authoritarian, lenient, authoritarian, and passive. Authoritarian parents rule solely on the basis of authority, while lenient parents tolerate immature and childlike behavior. Passive parents are more involved and emotionally close to their children, while authoritarian parents are a hybrid of the two. Passive parenting is difficult due to immaturity, work, or other factors, and grandparents, older siblings, babysitters, or the children themselves typically raise these children.

Every grandmother and grandfather will tell you amusing stories about their children when they were young. And for every amusing and touching story they have, they will be able to tell you another about adversity. Parenting is something that each parent does in their own unique way. The four general parenting styles are as follows.

Authoritarian parents rule solely on the basis of authority. Children are given commands that they must obey regardless of the circumstances. If these instructions are not followed, harsh punishment will be meted out. These parents do not value their children's opinions. In fact, it is punishable by death. The children are usually quiet and unhappy. They fear their parents more than they love them. Male children struggle with anger, and female children struggle with adversity as a result of their highly structured lives in which nothing ever changes.

Indulgent parents are often described as lenient. They tolerate immature and childlike behavior. These parents expect their children to learn from their mistakes and to be self-sufficient in most situations. These parents are democratic and allow their children to provide feedback on issues. They will listen to both sides of an argument and usually reach an agreement. Indulgent parents avoid confrontation with their children at all costs, but they are more involved and emotionally close to them.

Authoritarian parents are a hybrid of the two previously mentioned parenting styles. They represent a happy medium. While they expect proper behavior from their children, they also welcome feedback and questions about specific issues. They can demand things from their children, but they can also respond to what their children say, ask, and request. These children are the happiest, most confident, and self-assured of all the parenting styles mentioned. Being a purely authoritative parent is extremely difficult.

Passive parenting entails being completely uninvolved. Due to immaturity, work, or other factors, these parents may never return home. Grandparents, older siblings, babysitters, or the children themselves typically raise these children. There is absolutely no parental involvement.

We wish you a lot of happy stories!

5 Baby Shower Gifts Mom Will Appreciate

5 Baby Shower Gifts Mom Will Appreciate: Diapers, diapers, and diapers some more, diaper cakes, dressing gowns, blankets, socks, and burp cloths, and more. These gifts are ideal for those who are out shopping or have a gift registry, as they are typically available in newborn or 3 month sizes and unlikely to be useful after a few weeks. Pampering items for Mom, savings bonds, gift cards, check cards, and clothing are all options for parents-to-be. Savings bonds are an excellent way to invest in their child's future, while clothing can help parents get a head start on their baby's future.

With the pregnancy bug in the water system, you are almost certain to know someone who is expecting a child, even if you are not expecting one yourself. Shopping equals pregnant women. Here are 5 gifts that any mother will undoubtedly appreciate. The baby shower gift ideas are ideal for those who are out shopping or for moms who have a gift registry.

1. Diapers, diapers, and diapers some more. That's a rather uninteresting gift, but it's a much-needed one. I don't know any mom who will complain about having too many diapers at home with a newborn. You have to dress up diapers a little to make them look nice. Diaper cakes are available at a variety of gift shops. Some contain as many as 150 diapers, as well as booties, bibs, and a plethora of other baby necessities, all in the form of an adorable cake.

2. Dressing gowns, blankets, socks, and burp cloths. They're probably going to get a lot of these. However, these gifts are typically available in newborn or 3 month sizes, and after a few weeks, they are unlikely to be useful. If you buy them in larger sizes, they make an excellent gift. Mom still has brand new gifts for the baby to enjoy after a few months.

3. Pampering items for Mom. The last few weeks of pregnancy are extremely uncomfortable for Mom. Allow Mom to be pampered as well. Mom's 15 minutes of fame are over once the baby is born.

Savings bonds are a type of savings bond. A savings bond is an excellent way to invest in your child's future. While everyone else is thinking about the present, you are planning for the future. It may also help parents get a head start on their baby's future if they haven't already.

5. Gift cards. A gift certificate is always a safe bet. Mom and Dad get to choose what they want, and you satisfy them. Where the registry is set up is the obvious choice for a gift certificate. If they do not have a registry, consider their favorite supermarket (formula, diapers) or baby store. A check card gift certificate is another option for a gift certificate. It functions similarly to a credit card and can be used anywhere.

Tip: I don't recommend purchasing clothing unless the parents-to-be have requested it. They've probably already gone shopping and couldn't pass up those tiny adorable outfits.

4 Tips for Taking Great Baby Photos Even If You're Not a Pro

4 Tips for Taking Great Baby Photos Even If You're Not a ProWhen my daughter Layla was born, I couldn't put the camera down. The cashier at the photo developing shop informed me that new parents accounted for a sizable portion of their business. However, many parents' lack of photography skills can lead to photographs that are too dark, too bright, blurry, out of focus, uncentered, and so on. To fix these issues, follow these four tips: stand directly over babies on their backs, shoot straight down, lay a solid-colored baby blanket on the floor in a bright, sunny room, and show a variety of emotions. Take pictures of your child at all stages of their emotional development to document their growth.

Turn bath time into picture time, and if you're going to use a disposable camera, get a good one. My preferred disposable camera is the Kodak Max HQ, which is one of the more expensive disposable cameras on the market but has superior quality. You can usually find them for a low price on eBay and popular retailers such as Target and Wal-Mart.

When my daughter Layla was born, I couldn't put the camera down. And apparently I wasn't alone. The cashier at the photo developing shop informed me that new parents accounted for a sizable portion of their business.

We can't help ourselves! Babies are such lovely creatures that you want to capture every new movement and every fleeting smile. (Even if it is attached to a stinky gas bubble!)

However, many parents' lack of photography skills can result in photographs that are too dark, too bright, blurry, out of focus, uncentered, and so on. Maybe this describes you.

If this is the case, don't worry about it. These issues are easily remedied. By following these four tips, you can quickly transform an album full of blunders...

1) When photographing babies on their backs, stand directly over them and shoot straight down.

I used to lay a solid-colored baby blanket on the floor in a bright, sunny room. When I was ready to photograph Layla, I would place her on the blanket and adjust it around her, taking care not to place her directly in the sunlight. Then I'd get down on my knees over her, aim straight down, and snap.

This technique will allow you to properly center the camera and get some great close-up shots. Natural sunlight will often provide just enough light to keep your image from being too dark or too bright.

2) Show a variety of emotions.

Babies who smile are adorable. However, so are crying babies, pouting babies, messy babies, and sleeping babies.

Take pictures of your child at all stages of his or her emotional development. You'll be astounded at how stunning they are in non-traditional photo opportunities.

3) Turn bath time into picture time.

While some babies dislike water, the vast majority do. In the bath tub, they frequently become very expressive, laughing, cooing, and splashing. Bath time is often a great opportunity to get a few precious shots of your child.

I've used the bathtub to document Layla's growth over the last two years. I take a few close-up pictures of her in the bathtub every couple of months. The best one is then chosen and placed in a special section of the photo album.

It's truly amazing to see how her expression changes with each new photograph.

4) If you're going to use a disposable camera, get a good one.

Before Layla, I bought three dirt cheap disposable cameras. When we first brought her home, these were the photos we used for the first week.

I was sorely disappointed! The images deteriorated horribly. And as a new mommy with raging hormones, you can imagine how sad this made me. Those cuddly little moments will never be repeated.

But I did learn a valuable lesson. What you pay for is what you get.

My preferred disposable camera is now the Kodak Max HQ. It's one of the more expensive disposable cameras on the market. However, the quality is superior to other disposables I've used.

You can usually find them for a low price on eBay. Popular retailers such as Target and Wal-Mart frequently have sales on them.

4 Building Blocks for a Lifetime Relationship with Your Daughter

Mothers and daughters have a special bond, as they share many characteristics. Mothers strive for their daughters to be strong, independent, caring, and giving. To build a lifetime relationship with their daughter, it is important to use these four building blocks: trust, love, credibility, and actions. Trust is the first block, as it is a divinely bestowed right. Love is unconditional and that you will be there for her no matter what. It is never too late to start, as each new day brings renewal, forgiveness, and a positive step toward rebuilding. 

Establishing trust between a mother and her daughter involves five steps: honesty, openness, follow-up, consequences, and privilege. Communication is the foundation of effective communication between two people, and these abilities are mostly taught through language. The small steps/small rewards process is a step toward independence, and the mother must emphasize trust as one of the most valuable aspects of their shared relationship. 

The most important details in this text are that communication is not about getting through, but about logical reasoning and being open to understanding another person. It is important to spend as little time as possible talking, and to spend a significant amount of time listening. Effective listening allows you to gain insight into your daughter's life, and to create environments of opportunity for her to meet her new friends. Additionally, it is important to remember that communication can be a "two-way street" or a single command, and that YOU, as the parent, are always in command. Letting go is an ongoing process that we all go through.

Knowing when to let your daughter find her own path and when to take her hand and guide her is important. Being present for your daughter while letting go gives her the strength she needs to stand on her own. Learning how to improve your relationship with your daughter is one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself. From holding a beautiful baby girl in your arms to the turbulent adolescence, the age of independence and self-discovery, to witnessing her gain total confident independence, your reward is knowing that your parenting job has now turned into a fruit of friendship.

Mothers and daughters, like all generations, have a special bond. Though one is not quite a woman and the other, in many ways, is no longer a girl, they share many characteristics. Little girls want to grow up quickly, and their mothers want to reclaim their youth. Mothers understand the importance of being a good role model for their daughters.

So, with the best of intentions, mothers and daughters embark on their lives' journeys. Every mother wishes for her daughter to grow up to be strong, independent, caring, and giving. A mother's dream is to enjoy the fruits of her labor...to know that her daughter is happy, confident, and kind to everyone. 

There will be many detours and roadblocks along the way, but you can overcome them by using these four building blocks to obtain and maintain a lifetime relationship with your daughter! You will not only enjoy a close unique friendship with your daughter as a result of your efforts in developing this relationship now, but you will also pass on to her the wonderful gift of future strong relationships with her own children. What could be more important or rewarding than that? It's not much, but it's right at the top!

Building blocks are the foundation of life. Relationships are based on the same principles. Given the right tools, you can make yours strong enough to withstand life's ups and downs. A solid foundation provides the anchors needed to withstand any storm. It is never too late to start. Each new day brings renewal, forgiveness, and a positive step toward rebuilding.

TRUST IS THE FIRST BLOCK. Any relationship cannot survive without trust! Trust is frequently misunderstood as a given. A divinely bestowed right! Your daughter has grown to trust YOU as a loving mother. She knows you'll pick her up when you say you'll pick her up. She understands that YOU love and provide for her. Your daughter also understands that your love is unconditional and that you will be there for her no matter what. She may yell at you, but she TRUSTS you above all. Recognize that through your words, credibility, and actions, YOU have earned her trust.

How does she feel about earning trust? Each young lady must realize that TRUST must be earned. You earned her trust in the same way! Why do we sometimes feel the need to bestow attributes on our children that they should not have? Our daughters must understand that trust takes time. The small steps/small rewards process is a step toward independence. They must accept responsibility for earning and protecting your trust as one of the most valuable aspects of your shared relationship. It becomes significant when you, as her mother, emphasize it.

Establishing trust between a mother and her daughter involves five steps. Each is vital and carefully guarded. They are as follows: HONESTY, AWARENESS, FOLLOW-UP, CONSEQUENCE, and finally, PRIVILEGE. Knowing each of these steps and how to apply them to a working relationship is critical to maintaining a loving relationship.

BLOCK NUMBER TWO...COMMUNICATION. When our children are born, we seem to be so tuned in to their needs. We understand the distinction between a hungry cry and a mad cry. We notice a slight mood shift and worry for hours that a cold is on its way. We teach our little girls to talk as they grow older. When they say "ball" and "Mama," we clap and repeat the sounds. We're overjoyed that our little girls are on their way. We attend to all of their needs and kiss them goodnight softly and quietly.

Just because we teach language as a collection of "sounds" does not imply that we teach communication. Webster defines communication as: an act of transmitting OR an exchange of information or opinions. Consider the phrase "an act of transmitting," which can refer to giving orders, commands, and/or instructions. Of course, this is necessary at times. It means we mean what we say and do what we say! There will be no questions or debate. At times, this mode of communication is certainly acceptable and appropriate. Taking the other side of the definition, "an exchange of information," we understand this to be a type of investigation into another person's opinion, thoughts, and logic. This is also very important. In fact, this is the foundation of effective communication between two people.

When does it begin? As our girls reach the age of two, they begin to develop communication skills. These abilities are mostly taught through our physical reactions rather than our verbal abilities.

Physical reactions include how we say things, the tone of our voices, and how we move our bodies. It's not about getting through; it's about logical reasoning and being open to understanding another person. Because your daughter has already developed trust in you, she will embrace your communication skills if they are delivered in a way that supports her best interests without jeopardizing her own desires. 

YOU, as the parent, are always in command. YOU simply require the tools to assist in educating your daughter on the ways of the world. With these tools and exercises, you can begin to lay the groundwork for an open-minded, free exchange of information while maintaining your position of authority. Keep in mind that communication can be a "two-way street" or a single command. Your decision, your authority.

EFFECTIVE LISTENING IS BLOCK #3. Now that we've defined communication, I implore you... Spend as little time as possible talking. Teach through actions as well! How? It's simple.. (once you understand how). Spend a significant amount of time listening!!! Effective listening allows you to gain insight into your daughter's life. You can learn a lot by simply listening and observing. Listening includes not only what your daughter says, but also what others say. This includes her friends, teachers, enemies, and anyone else with whom she has contact. I'm not suggesting that you spy or have "reports back". Simply listening will teach you more than you can imagine. 

Listening is an acquired skill. What you want to do is create environments of opportunity. As an example... Car pools are unpleasant, to be sure, but when you pick up a group of her friends, keep the music low and don't talk - just listen! The girls will be open with their conversation, and you will be able to interpret not only the quality of her friendships, but also the group's collective views. This can be very useful in future conversations with your daughter. 

It's also a great way for her to meet her new friends! If you are more informed, your subtle suggestions will have a greater impact...remember what you learned about communication... Because your daughter has already developed trust in you, she will embrace your communication skills if they are delivered in a way that supports her best interests without jeopardizing her own desires. YOU, as the parent, are always in command.

BLOCK #4...LEAVING. Letting go is an ongoing process that we all go through. When, how much, and how much is enough? Knowing when to let your daughter find her own path and when to take her hand and guide her. There will be times when your heart breaks for her, when you want to take her pain, her place, her path - but they will learn the same lessons we have. We recognize that we cannot (and should not) always protect her from everything. 

When we reflect on our own lives, some of the most painful situations taught us the most powerful life lessons. Whether that was empathy and compassion for others, or our ability to forgive and move on; whatever crisis we face we have a choice - We can choose to be "bitter or better". It's a decision. Being present for your daughter while letting go gives her the strength she needs to stand on her own. 

We grow through pain, and we become whole through growth. There are times when there are no words, when silence and solidarity speak louder than any great speech. If you have built on the previous three blocks, letting go will be a natural love process. There is no fear where there is love. Your goal has been met: you now have a solid foundation for a lifelong, healthy relationship with your daughter.

Being present entails being present as a friend, a parent, a role model, and a mother. The best gift you can give yourself and your daughter today is to learn how to build and enjoy a mother/daughter relationship. This is a gift that can be passed down through generations, growing stronger and deeper each time.

Learning how to improve your relationship with your daughter is one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself. The building blocks can point you in the right direction. From holding a beautiful baby girl in your arms, to the turbulent adolescence, the age of independence and self-discovery, to witnessing her gain total confident independence. Your reward is knowing that your parenting job has now turned into a fruit of friendship.

4 Baby Care Tips Every Parent Should Be Aware Of

4 Baby Care Tips Every Parent Should Be Aware Of. Newborns do not come with an instruction manual, so here are a few baby care tips to be aware of. Caesarian section is usually performed to make birth safer for you or your baby. Circumcision may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and virtually eliminate penile cancer.New parents face a slew of problems and issues that they are expected to understand and address right away. Unfortunately, newborns do not come with an instruction manual, so here are a few topics to be aware of.

Bathing your child: Only give your baby sponge baths until her umbilical cord falls off one to two weeks after birth. To dry the umbilical stump, use a cotton ball or cotton swab dampened with alcohol, or follow your pediatrician's instructions. After the stump has been removed, you can bathe him in a sink or shallow tub.

Caesarian section: A caesarian section is usually performed to make birth safer for you or your baby. C-sections can be performed for a variety of reasons, such as stalled labor, complicated labor, problems with the baby that may make delivery difficult, or other issues. You are still a mother with a beautiful new blessing whether you deliver vaginally or by caesarian section.

Circumcision: Many doctors agree that circumcision may have some benefits, but it may not be absolutely necessary. It may help to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and virtually eliminates the risk of penile cancer. Circumcision has no long-term emotional consequences for your child.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): SIDS has been the subject of numerous studies. Although the cause of SIDS has not been definitively determined, there have been some correlations established between SIDS and the following:

Male babies are more likely than females to die from SIDS.

It is more likely due to prematurity.

Minority children are more likely to be affected than non-minority children.

It kills more children of young, single mothers.

Children who live in a household with one or more smokers are more vulnerable.

Some people believe that sleeping with your baby reduces the risk of SIDS, but the American Academy of Pediatrics disagrees, claiming that babies who co-sleep have a higher risk of SIDS.

Most pediatricians recommend that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. The reason for this is hotly debated among health professionals. Consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.

Parenting Tip: 7 Activities to Supplement Computer Games and Unleash Your Child's Creativity

Parenting Tip: 7 Activities to Supplement Computer Games and Unleash Your Child's Creativity. Many parents are concerned about the impact of computer games on their child's development. Here are seven ways to supplement computer games to encourage your child's creative development. Children can create character profiles and make up their own stories based on characters from their favorite computer games. It might be fun for your child to put himself in the shoes of some of the characters. This is a good way to help a child develop empathy.

Some kids are kinesthetic learners, and can make 3D models of computer game characters out of clay or papier mâché. You can create your own computer games using hundreds of software tools. Tools include "The 3D Gamemaker,"* for example, which allows you to create games by pointing and clicking. You can scan in your own images, record your own personal sound effects, and import your own 3D models.

Even if we enjoy playing them, many parents are concerned about the impact of computer games on their child's development. We are concerned that allowing our children to play computer games for more than an hour per day will turn them into antisocial, obese couch potatoes. We believe that reading to our children or reading child stories to them would be preferable. However, computer games are here to stay, so why not use them instead of fighting them? This article explains how you can allow your child to play computer games while also encouraging the development of their creativity.

Many parents are concerned about computer games because, unlike reading a child story, they do not require a great deal of imagination. Here are seven ways to supplement computer games to encourage your child's creative development:

#1 Create character profiles

Characters can be found in some computer games. These characters are already well-known and developed thanks to the Harry Potter games. Other games, on the other hand, may have more "shallow" characters. This is an excellent opportunity for your child to further develop the characters. They can create a character profile by imagining who their family is, where they come from, where they go/went to school, what hobbies they enjoy, how they feel, and so on. Your child can then draw or sketch the character and scenes from their life, past, present, and future. Finally, your child can create profiles for the characters' friends, family, pets, colleagues, droids, and so on.

#2 Make storyboards.

When you think about it, many computer games are simply interactive stories. As a result, your child can make up their own stories based on the characters from their favorite computer games. Consider this an extension of the computer game. You could even pretend to be a member of the computer game company, working on a new version of the computer game.

There are several approaches you can take depending on your preferences and those of your child. You can write a script, draw cartoon-style illustrations, draw illustrated scenes (pictures), or draw pictures with text.

#3 Keep a Diary

It might be fun for your child to put himself in the shoes of some of the characters. This is also a good way to help a child develop empathy. Write a diary for your child as if they were one of the characters.

#4 Create a Virtual World

My son has created his own virtual world. He's made detailed maps, descriptions of all the creatures, plants (over 100 in total, all fully illustrated), and lands in it, as well as a complete history of this fictitious world. Your child can design a virtual world that is an extension of an existing computer game or something entirely new.

#5 What's for Dinner?

If your child enjoys cooking, why not create some special recipes based on what people eat in the virtual world of the computer game? What is their favorite dish? What is the country's national dish? These "recipes" could be made from real, edible foods or from non-edible materials (make sure your child does not consume the latter!).

#6 Get Your Hands On

Some kids are kinesthetic learners, which means they learn by doing. If your child is one of these, they can make 3D models of computer game characters out of clay or papier mâché. Life-sized models can even be built in your garden or backyard. You can, for example, carve a character out of an old tree stump or log.

#7: Design Your Own Computer Game

What could be more creative in the world of computer games than creating your own game? Computer game companies go through a process similar to some of the steps described here when creating a game, so you might be able to use the results of your fun work to create an actual computer game.

You can create your own games using hundreds or thousands of software tools. However, unless you're a "techie," you should probably use one that doesn't require any programming or advanced computer skills.

Software tools like "The 3D Gamemaker,"* for example, enable you to create games by simply pointing and clicking. The 3D Gamemaker includes a scene, sound, and 3D object library that you can use to create your own games. To make your game more unique, you can scan in your own images, record your own personal sound effects, and import your own 3D models.

The Multi-Choice Creation System (MuCeS) allows you to create Multichoice adventures in which the game player selects one of several options based on what she believes will be best for a given situation.

These are just two examples of the many possibilities. The point is, you don't have to be a "rocket scientist" to make your own computer games. Consider how excited your children will be to design their own games. Computer gaming will never be the same again!

Conclusion

Some parents believe that computer games have a "unhealthy" influence on their children, but when combined with some of the "offline" child story creation activities described here, you will not only unleash your child's creative genius, but you will also have a lot of fun doing it.

* Please keep in mind that I have not (yet) used any of the software described here. The products mentioned are only provided as examples.