On the day we send our children off to preschool, we struggle with the reality that they are still so young, yet this is their first step to independence. Having lived through that first step (was it harder for us or them?) we have watched them grow and become more and more independent along the way. Yet, they are still little ones and rely on us for so much. Our children started this move toward independence long before preschool. At Parenting Power we always remind ourselves that, even when they are very little and don’t have control over much, children can and do control what goes in and what comes out! With so many of our clients asking us about eating and mealtime struggles, we decided to pass on some “Tools to Use” about eating.

Potty training does not come easy with every toddler. Some toddlers need little incentives to make them finally go on the potty. Start out easy then progress each week until the potty training is official. Moms, first you need to make a chart with each day of the month. Let the toddler help you design the chart so you can begin the talking process about the potty. Then you will need to buy some special stickers the toddler likes or cartoon characters they are into.

“Plop. Plop. Fizz. Fizz. Oh, what a relief it is.”

—Old Potty Training Song

Many moms are not experiencing relief when their stubborn child resists potty training all together. With the laundry piling up and the cost of pull-ups eating away at the weekly budget, it's no wonder many parents feel like they're ready to flush those unsuccessful potty training techniques down the toilet! I receive at least one email a week from a mom in the parenting “deep end” asking for suggestions in this area.

Children's Ornament Dough Recipe
Are you looking for a new way to help your children learn “hands-on” the letters of the alphabet? Would your child like to make a gift for a relative? Are you looking for a project for a rainy day? Creating play dough letters and ornaments is a fun way for your child to do all these things.

Most children enjoy helping in the preparations of their lunches and snacks. Choose meals that the children can help with and everybody has a great time. As you prepare the food together you can also take the time to teach colors, numbers, and nutritional importance.