Separation anxiety happens with many kids. From infants to toddlers and beyond, learn how to deal with separation anxiety in children. My then 18-month-old son wanted to be with me... and only me. Little that his dad or caregiver did could pry him away from me without tears. "Where's that kid who would 'go to anyone'?" I wondered. Separation anxiety proved difficult for everybody. My toddler was unhappy being away from me. Other adults felt shunned despite wanting to help. And I felt exhausted and frustrated at being the object of his attachment. Thankfully we were able to move beyond … [Read more...]
3 Reasons Your Child Doesn’t Have to Hug Everyone
It might seem polite to have kids hug others, even family and friends, but here are 3 reasons your child doesn't have to hug everyone. At a recent family gathering, my brother-in-law wanted a hug from my toddler, but my son was in no mood. I didn't force him to hug everyone or apologize for his shyness. Instead, I said, "Looks like you don't want to hug right now. Maybe later?" "Later," my toddler agreed. My brother-in-law requested a high-five instead, which my son much preferred. In my family, you hug everyone, especially adults. We have huge gatherings with aunts, uncles and … [Read more...]
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your Child’s Emotions
How often do we reassure our kids by saying "It's okay"? We try to make them feel better, but don't ignore children's emotions — here's why. "Let's go to the beach!" I suggested to my toddler on a recent day off. The weather had finally started warming up, and I wanted to sit on the sand and hear the waves slapping back and forth. I packed up our blanket and toys, slathered on some sunscreen and headed out. But once I set my toddler down on the sand on his bare feet, he cried, "Want to carry up!" He didn't want to stand on the sand. Irritated, I carried my 30-plus pound toddler and a … [Read more...]
Is It Okay to Tell My Son He’s Handsome?
Do you tell your son he's handsome? Here's why I don't tell my son he's handsome and stay away from complimenting his looks. I think my two-year-old looks stunning. I can look at his face and fall in love each time. Being his mom gives me automatic permission to be over-the-top biased. I can brag about him to everyone, except... I don't. I not only refrain from telling others how handsome he is, I don't tell him, either. I'll call him cutie-pie but usually say it when he does something cute (like when he makes jokes). Not when he looks cute. Even for the times when he takes my breath … [Read more...]
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