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A couple of ideas:
My mom used to lay my sisters and me on the kitchen counter and wash our hair. Perhaps that and a sponge bath?
Or, glow sticks in the bath tub with the lights out.
A popsicle bath, or some sort of special new bath toy? Our kids loved the ice cream dispenser until it broke.
I haven’t gotten to this stage with my kiddos yet, but I went to a Spanish immersion elementary school growing up so I can offer my perspective based on that experience.
I’d say I left 6th grade fluent in Spanish, after starting kindergarten at almost 6 years old. I could think/dream in Spanish, and instinctually knew proper grammar (most of the time) even if I couldn’t tell you the specific tense I was using. I imagine if I started 2-3 years earlier I maaaybe could have been a bit closer to being bilingual. That said, even though I don’t use Spanish in my day to day life today, I'm still relatively fluent (in my 30s).
Essentially, if you like the Montessori school because it's free and every day of the week I don't think that would have much of a negative impact on your kid's ability to pick up Spanish well. You could even look for some bilingual books to read together at home the next couple of years if you want them to get a bit of a head start (maybe cover numbers, colors, shapes, etc). Though honestly all those things should be covered at the immersion school pretty early on.
Overall, my suggestion is to go with what makes the most sense to you from a schedule and cost perspective and not worry about the Spanish aspect. Hope this helps!
We had a great run with The Secrets of Droon series - there were a bunch of digital copies available through Libby and our local library so we were able to borrow. They're 10 chapters, super quick pacing, and we usually could read one in 3 days or so. My son was 4 and loved them. He liked to talk about the characters and what they did after and would ask lots of questions about the imaginary creatures in the book so he could 'see them without his eyes'.
It also has about 1 small illustration per chapter which helped him visualize.
Would def recommend :)
That parenting style typology was developed in 1967. I think it needs an update based on the research success of parent management training (PMT). The basic principle of PMT is: “Research has shown that the most effective way to reduce problem behavior in children is to strengthen desirable behavior through positive reinforcement rather than trying to weaken undesirable behavior using aversive or negative processes.” –Dr. Sidney W. Bijou
So the parent has preferences for desirable over undesirable so I guess one can say that the parent has a boundary of sorts. But, in many common situations, the emphasis is on strengthening desirable behaviors, not on enforcing boundaries.
Board game ideas:
“Outfoxed”
“Pete the Cat & the Missing Cupcakes” board game
Schleich has a Bayala collection of mermaids and fairies that MAGNETICALLY ride on the back of unicorns.
So if your kiddos is into playing with figurines these are great quality.
Friends highly recommend this book: https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Child-Read-Lessons/dp/0671631985
My daughter also plays games on Homer and her ability to write some letters unassisted has been great. She also gets Haggerty lessons at Pre-K; we practice rhyming at home.
For when it's snowy, long mittens that go over the coat so snow doesn't get stuck between the cuff of the sleeve and the mitten. I got these from Amazon and they seemed good last winter.
Same idea. It was similar to this. Just search for toddler bed bumper https://www.amazon.ca/Toddler-Bedside-Portable-Machine-Washable/dp/B07QXNYFJJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=Bed+Bumper&qid=1665352574&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI0LjY5IiwicXNhIjoiNC4wNCIsInFzcCI6IjMuODIifQ%3D%3D&sr=8-5
Cleats will keep LO from slipping in the mud and will also project to others that you want him to do well in the sport. So if you can get him used or cheap cleats, you should. I think it's worth it, but I also played soccer myself for many years, so that is my opinion. The brand doesn't matter.
You should make small talk to other parents, especially if they make the effort to try to talk to you. You kids could end up being great friends, so you want to know who their parents are.
I wouldn't bring a heater, but I would dress warmly in layers, bring a blanket, thermos of coffee/tea for myself, gloves, hat, wool socks, boots.
Chair - my favorite one is the Kijaro. https://www.amazon.com/Kijaro-Portable-Camping-Sports-Chair/dp/B004C0RAC0/
This is the one we have. His favorites are the hot chocolate breath and the color breath:) link
It sounds like you’re doing a great job with prepping him for transitions. I would recommend trying a visual timer, like a sand timer or something that has a colored countdown on the face. That’s been working really well for my son.
This book has been fabulous for our curious 4 year old! Accurate without being graphic. Great pictures. Tells exactly what all the anatomical parts are and what they do for us. Mentions sex but not in a graphic way and I feel it’s very age appropriate. Well received and understood by my kiddo!
It's Not the Stork!: A Book About... https://www.amazon.com/dp/0763633313?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Yep, and you can take any bullying book and make it about biting too. Change the words to be “bite” instead of what’s written.
Our son really likes “we don’t eat our classmates” because it has a T-Rex.
I would love to know the answer to this, as I am a prosecutor and my 5 year old has so many questions. Lol.
This one isn’t about a trial court, but I think it’s cute and interesting about the law:
https://www.amazon.com/Marshall-Courthouse-Mouse-Supreme-Court/dp/0963768867
This one shows RBG at court a little:
And then a lot of courts are showing hearings and trials on YouTube now, since Covid. Like in Michigan, there is a virtual courtroom site and you can look at which courts are streaming in all of the different counties. My 5yo watched some of my last trial on YouTube! Risky because some trials can be obviously inappropriate, but if you’re watching with them to show them kind of what’s going on, that might be interesting.
I hope that jury duty is a good experience for you :)
I recently discovered these Unicorn horses made by Schleich
The coolest part is the rider is MAGNETIC.
Anything building- i wouldn’t get legos yet since your baby is so young & legos end up on the floor sometimes- but our kids love this wooden train set
Also, if your toddler needs some interaction, try playing games like restaurant where he goes back & forth getting stuff for you (the customer) or anything that requires him to fetch stuff while you sit. These toddler scavenger hunt cards are a hit too
I’ve bought 3 of these. One for each of my kids and one for my nephews. I recommend this clock to anyone that asks for sleep help.
We have the older version and it looks like they have updated the design recently, but I’m sure it works the same way as the older one.
My 3-year-old needed to be put under for an MRI and I wanted to prepare her for that experience. This book really helped us make that part not so scary, hope it can help you with that part too.
Also, be prepared for the wake up to be rough, she wasn't herself yet when they brought her back to me and she kept screaming for me to help her and trying to pull out her iv, I knew to expect it but it was so hard not being able to clam her down with the usual things that work.
My five year old has found this book/workbook to be really helpful. It’s recommended for ages 6 and up so would depend on your child’s maturity:
What to Do When You Worry Too... https://www.amazon.com/dp/1591473144?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Do you often point out when you're happy/excited/elated/eager/etc? Assuming this is just about his verbal identifying of emotions, heavily modeling that behavior yourself might help.
My son is younger, but he was like this. He would say "I'm frustrated and sad" or "I'm mad but I'm not sad" fairly frequently to express basically any negative emotion, but wouldn't give voice to his happy emotions despite clearly having them. After I started identifying my own happy emotions more, he did too.
Also, I'm pretty fond of the A Little SPOT of Emotion books set for emotional identification and regulation.
Secret Pizza Party: the narrator and a racoon steal a pizza to have a party while trying to avoid being bonked by brooms.
Secret Pizza Party https://www.amazon.com/dp/0803739478/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_2HD25JQE3TNQX04Z20BA
Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion: Fluffy McWhiskers is so cute just looking at her will cause someone to explode. She fails at every turn to ugly herself up. We like using it as an excuse to yell boom
If he likes sports, one of those sliding/levitating puck-like balls might be fun.
Limited-time deal: Hover Soccer Ball Boy Toys, Rechargeable Air Soccer Indoor Floating Soccer Ball with LED Light and Upgraded Foam Bumper Perfect Birthday Christmas Gifts for Kids Toddler Girls https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XMSDVZ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dl_V908S8JVAP1XY9JG09GY
Have you sat down your son during a calm time and asked him why he is behaving this way? He may need to learn coping skills for new feelings and emotions.
Try reading this book. bookThey have a solution based section on problematic situations. It has a ton of valuable information on effective communication and parenting techniques that are very helpful.
We use this one
Stohlquist Waterware Child PFD Life Jacket - Yellow + Blue, 30-50 lbs - Coast Guard Approved Life Vest for Kids, Support Collar, Grab Handle, Fully Adjustable with Quick Release Buckle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071VVGDNW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WHADBBEWANK14HNWRKA0
My digital poetry collection about Motherhood and Christmas is free Monday 5/9 – Friday 5/13 on Amazon
Here is description and a link:
Christmas Child: Poems about Christmas and Motherhood
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Child-Poems-about-Motherhood-ebook/dp/B09FFLZWZJ
Beautifully honest and comforting poems about motherhood, love and Christian faith. The longings of winter and the anticipation of the miracle of Christmas are gently connected with the beauty and closeness of the relationship of mother and child. Each of the poems in this collection has previously appeared in Ekstasis, Trouvialle Review, Time of Singing and other poetry magazines.
the night shift
every night
we become
master burpers, sooth sayers, rockers;
our prayers
go straight up
every night
we lose our breath, our pace
goes a little faster -
over excitement
while the sleep deficit is building up
every night ends
and daytime brings rest
baby turns back
into a sleeping angel
calmingly nursing on schedule
until the next night
Poetry is my special interest!!
My kids all liked “random snack trays” where I would just put a variety of different food items on a plate or cutting board and let them graze. I’d put some of their faves but also things that were unusual and they were less likely to ask for them (i.e. olives, celery, broccoli crowns). Also would suggest getting the book The Sneaky Chef. It shows you how to hide fruit and veggies in various kid-preferred foods like spaghetti, mac n cheese and pizza.
Maybe he will like underpants + inserts instead? Goodnites makes pretty good ones if he’s not soaking wet during night time.
Thats a good point too with the dangling! They also sell inflatable foot rests (so safe in an accident) that may help give her feet something to do
Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest Pillow for Travel, Kids/Adults Airplane Travel Pillow-Adjustable Height Cushions,for Kids to Sleep While Traveling,Suitable for Office, Home and Any Travel (1 Pack) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07K69DZWK/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_6W3T7GB00KJAF52B9ZZ8
Our kids have this and love it. We’ve also seen a significant increase in their grip strength and climbing confidence.
There’s these books by Lonely Planet that have lift-the-flaps and go into a lot of detail—this is the one about cities. Seems like they talk about zoning and how cities evolve. I think they also make simpler versions for younger kids. I have this equivalent one on airports my almost-4 year old and it’s just a little too much for him now.
It's rated ages 4+, but "It's Not the Stork" is a good book. It discussed body parts, where babies come from, and what are okay touches and not okay touches: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0763633313/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_dl_WNV760TESTSJTJ75BYCY
My kid has been daytime trained since 22 months, but is a deeeeeep sleeper and wets overnight about half the time. He definitely doesn't want to, and I think he really can't help it. He wears size 6 clothing. We double-stuff these and almost never have leaks. Three of them was enough for us, even last year when he was wet every morning, but it depends how often you do laundry. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0787ZJQHT/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_H6ZVNR7R32K4460BACBK
Get disposable ones, it’s so nice to not have to worry about washing them, and just throwing them out. These (Limited-time deal: Sheal 50PCS Disposable 4-Layer Kids Face Masks Protection Breathable Comfortable 5 Colors for Kids (3-5 Years) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08W38XTFS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dl_MC7A9V9QQBTR4MYKCG2K?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 ) are my favorite for my toddler. I have to tie little knots in the ear loops so it fits tighter, but they’ve been so much better than cloth ones.
Potty issues are the worst and I'm going through something similar with my 4 year old as well.
He's been potty trained since around 2 years old. We went on holidays during the last Christmas break and he became a withholding expert.
I don't wanna scare you but you need to get on this asap before things get even worse and you begin to learn words like "Encropresis".
Important note, all the begging, cajoling and/or frustration won't sway a poop withholder. You will be needing the patience of 10 dozen saints to work through this successfully.
Here's what is working for us:
A book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stool-Withholding-What-Child-Europe-ebook/dp/B00PY3U0IA/
A Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/209540745755798/
The book helped me understand some of the psychology of withholding kids. And the Facebook group helped with information from many more experienced parents. The group is mainly against a certain medication for constipation. BUT it has a ton of information about alternatives.
With patience and information, this phase will pass.
This was done over a virtual party, and for older kids so maybe won't work, but I had kids make Balloon animals (not twisting, but like this).
I provided paper pre-cut for feet, had other paper available for cutting whatever shapes, had dry erase makers and balloons. Maybe or preschoolers you don't want scissors though.
Another craft we did was fairy houses...I got $1 bird houses from teh craft store and some sets of those dot-art-paints and stickers and stick on gems, as well as glue. Kids could collect acorns, sticks, and leaves to create their fairy house. Bonus is this kinda acts like a party favor too. Some parents texted me that their kids carefully kept the fairy houses on their porch to invite their new fairy friends to live in
Yea I totally understand, we also have a 4 month old... Every second of extra help is worth its quantity in gold🥇so I see how picking him up early could be too much. Another thing we did because my son is also a non napper is we'd bring a special 'nap-kit' with fun fidget toys that keep him occupied during nap time. The teachers allowed it only at nap time while he was on his mat. I'll link a couple
Limited-time deal: Fidgets Toys Girl Boy Creative DIY Sensory Block Toy Set 24Pcs Dimple Fidget Packs Kids Adults Anxiety Stress Relief Sensory Toys Autistic Children ADHD Toddler Educational Building Block Toy(24pcs-P) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099RRNQ7V/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_dl_AAEG49JFTCXDEY8M8TA4 and this one Limited-time deal: LCD Writing Tablet Drawing Board, 8.5 Inch Colorful Electronic Drawing Tablet Kids Doodle Board Writing Pad for Kids and Adults at Home, School and Office with Lock Erase Button(Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R4148BT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_dl_W14FWZ4XS21BS0RP86KM
We use something similar, stand up urinal, suctioned to the wall. It has a spinning piece in the middle if you aim just right with a strong enough pee stream.
Frog Pee Training,Cute Potty Training Urinal for Boys with Funny Aiming Target,Green Urinals for Toddler Boy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VBKZ643/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EH15HHDHGC15PE1KK3G6
Game changer for us!
My 4 yo has been using this urinalfor peeing since he was ~3. Total game changer for us!
We have this seat PLUS a pee deflector
P-flector - The Urine Deflector That Prevents Potty Training Kids (and Adults) from Peeing Through The Gap Between The Toilet seat and Bowl. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HY57YYB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_9XKDE3WBX6QZMEWVCPA3
Ha, my dad did this when I was a kid! Mine didn't bleed, but swollen and bruised for a bit. I was looking away and looked at him too late.
I'm not sure how old I was, as I remember the incident itself, so maybe older than your daughter.
I remember it really fondly NOW as a time I can remember playing with my dad (he wasn't a really playful or emotionally connected man).
In the meantime, maybe invest in one of these soft frisbee rings.
There is a cute book about a girl needing to wear an eye patch that your daughter might enjoy.
Agreeing with others it is usually only a couple of hours a day so hopefully it can be done after school so you can monitor compliance. Less complicated than doing it at school but at this age, I wouldn't worry much about other kids' reactions. Some fun designs and the other kids will probably want a patch too!
Timex Children's Sleep Training Nightlight Alarm Clock works well for my little guy. He get up and dressed on his own now that he has an alarm. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094YM5SQZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VZPBM9C0QVFCZB46FMC2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you want sound and light and for him to stay in bed longer, you can set this to turn green at a time it is okay to get out of bed. There’s different kinds and models. It has simple white noise, and about 5 different color settings:
LittleHippo Mella Ready to Rise Children's Trainer, Alarm Clock, Night Light Sleep Sounds Machine (Arctic Blue), Standard https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078Z4KFDR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_Y50FBPN8GAP6EE8NEVDX?psc=1
After dealing with fancy white noise machines for awhile, we decided to search for simple, no wifi no app machines and we found one we love for $15. It turns on and off with a single button and has one knob for volume, one knob for adjusting frequency between white noise and brown noise. It's USB charged, meaning it can plug into any USB wall adapter or a power bank if the power goes out. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086TPTLPC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_75PW8YKMJWSBRJGNQ3EZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
So, no lights, but here's a white noise machine we love.
My son has been patching an hour or two a day since he was 2.5 (he's 3.5 now). The reusable cloth ones weren't recommended for us because it doesn't cover the entire eye, so they'll inadvertently try to see around the patch. The adhesive ones on Amazon are great, and they come in really cute designs. These are the ones we use, highly recommended.
One thing about the fun patches is that I wouldn't let her pick the patch every day, because with four designs she'll have a favorite one and once that one runs out it won't be as fun. I'd put them in a box or something and let her pick out a surprise one without looking. Ask me how I know this, haha.
As far as glasses, I've found the best deals at Glassesshop dot com. Also they didn't mention this at the time, but make sure to get your daughter's pupillary distance (PD) before going online to order glasses, as the prescription calls for it. You can ask for this at the opthalmologist or at an optometrist. Worst case scenario you can do it at home with a ruler, there are helpful YouTube videos.
My son got used to it pretty quickly, had some moments of resistance, but has been really good about it overall, especially for such a young guy. Your guys are going to do great 💖
The only time my kid will be quiet is when he has something in his mouth, or when screen is involved. This is not a great tip but these lollipops are my ear savers sometimes - Lolleez Organic Pops, they are organic with vitamins so I don’t feel too bad. I tell him he can only lick it and no biting so it takes much longer.
We have a safety first guide 65 for travel which has been nice.
Safety 1st Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat, Chambers https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00IP8AAZE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_TT3XRMV1D2DTKKQS0236?psc=1
My 4 year old loves number blocks and i got her this for Christmas. Not sure if this would work but there are activity cards included some of them have the patterns.
hand2mind Numberblocks MathLink Cubes 1-10 Activity Set, 30 Numberblocks Activities Linked to TV Episodes, 100 NumberBlocks Cubes, Numberblocks Toys, Math Cubes, Stem Toys, Homeschool Supplies https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08ZR65PLQ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_PCA8BJ15FEX64D0YG3N2?psc=1
Check this guy out:
Coogam Wooden Mosaic Puzzle, 370PCS Shape Pattern Blocks with 8 Colors, Pixel Board Game Montessori STEM Toys Gift for Kids Toddlers Boys Girls Ages 4 5 6 7 Years Old https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088H5Z3NH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_ZPZGZDDGX05W8WXM2AGE
The related products look cool too!
I haven't seen Numberblocks, so I could be way off base with this...
But that looks awfully a lot like Blokus
Mattel Games Blokus Game https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FBWBM3G/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_MCBAE3F9HXPSNVWN6AVW
Craftikit! It’s a very organized kit of 20 different crafts. My 3 year old got it for the holidays and he practically begs to work on one (or more) every day.
BMAG Magnetic Tiles, 3D Magnet Building Blocks for Kids Toddlers, Stacking Montessori Toys for Children, STEM Preschool Educational Learning Construction Toys for Boys Girls with 2 Cars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SGL78GM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PEZEEMH0MDVN27PP0YV1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Depends on your school -- my LOs Montessori school only uses adult sized toilets. No little pottys or potty inserts -- apparently other kids seem to be okay with that but it has been a real challenge for my LO. It's been one of the hardest parts of our potty training journey - LO easily potty trained on a little potty at 2.5, fully transitioned to potty insert by 3 (we like this one) . Took till 4 before he could pee on the big toilet without the insert because he's a smaller kid and felt really unstable on the big toilet, and still uses the insert for poop, so that definitely doesn't happen at school.
OAKI Rain & Trail Suit - Kid &Toddler - Girl & Boy One Piece Rain Jacket & Pant https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZYUJDJ0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_C0RCVMQBF7D2QCSWJH6W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Best one by far!
We just use electric candles in our bathroom for this reason. They come with a little remote to turn them on and off too. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C9ZLQJB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M4S0AS2TEP4JVRG3FTHB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Something like this? Changes colors and is on a timer.
Super Cute Cat Lamp, Silicone Kitty Lamp Night Light for Girls Bedroom, Birthday Gifts for Kids Baby Adults Portable Kawaii Nightlight Room Decor https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08TC1QYQX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9YJ9VEV03BHN92PK4QVS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I'm loving this Daniel Tiger activity book we got for Christmas. It is definitely beating the boredom and making me feel like an amazing parent and it's not hard at all.
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood: Let's Play Together!: 365 activities, games & projects for young children https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948174162/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_AWKTC01VQD418KCB19CJ
These "knock off" magnetic tiles are our favorite! We've tried all of them, and these are the best. We donated the others and got more of these - Jasonwell 65 PCS Magnetic Tiles Building Blocks Set for Boys Girls Preschool Educational Construction Kit Magnet Stacking Toys for Kids Toddlers Child https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WHX21D8/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_PIvBPQ6zg7xXk
Best toy by far! Pair them with some figurines that your kid likes and it's hours of entertainment. We literally use them every day.
The 2 biggest hits for my 3.5yo this Christmas we’re a Viking playmobil set and this game hammer thing that has light up ‘crystals’ that slot in the top.
We use an Omie insulated lunch box for our 4yr old. We’re able to put smaller ice packs in it to keep his food cold. It has one latch that is easy to open. Omie Box
Unless you live in NYC, this book probably doesn't apply to you, but it has a good overview of how to think about the schools you want to apply to, as well as general notes on educational philosophies.
We actually crashed and burned for both our kids with a academically orientated school ("The kids seem smart, let's put them into this school that talks about how the program is accelerated by a grade, etc.!"). The eldest had sort of undiagnosed ADHD which the school couldn't handle (plus a couple other things going on in terms of learning disabilities). The youngest was counselled out because of very strong emotional outbursts, in part because of the home dynamic with the eldest's issues and in part because the school was too "traditional" in terms of trying to get the kids onto pre-set schedules, etc. The oldest is in a special ed school now, and the youngest is doing well in a progressively orientated school. The both needed schools that addressed social-emotional needs before anything else. What we've realized is that the academics will probably come naturally to our kids, but social-emotional learning needs to be addressed.
I do lay with my boy until he falls asleep, I don't mind it since he has a twin bed, I'll probably keep doing it until he tells me not to, time goes too fast for me to want to rush that part, and I can look at my phone while I'm there because we like to lay "butt-to-butt" or facing away from each other with him on the inside against the wall.
He did have a long stretch of coming into our room. One thing we did that helped was pulling out my old maternity pillow and putting that on his bed. It's the big U shaped one, so he was surrounded by pillows on both sides.
After a while he didn't need it, but if you don't have something like that handy, the same company makes slightly cheaper kids version that might help if your kid is used to using you as a hot water bottle like mine does.
Another thing I found is that if his room is too cold, he wakes up at night. I got him flannel sheets for winter which helps keep him warm even if he kicks off most of his blankets. We also have a kids weighted blanket that we use sometimes.
Ive bought this S’well container because it has a separate internal container. I bought the glass ones so I can scoop food in to microwave while I’m adding boiling water to the metal container. It’s worked pretty well so far and my daughter’s enjoyed hot lunches during the cold season. I know there are other food thermos containers but I wanted to skip a step of heating the food and then scooping it into the thermos.
this one!
I haven't bought it yet, but I'm looking at this one. Looks a little advanced, but maybe it'll be something she can grow into.
Glad you love the Gruffalo. My daughter is obsessed with Room on the Broom so I'm thinking she'll love it.
We use a dry bag
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag, Ultra-Durable Roll-Top Dry Storage https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001Q3KKTQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_H7RPGPTN18NZ9VMVA3F1?psc=1
We pack an extra pair of clothes, wool base layers, 2 pairs of mittens, boots, water bottle, a rain suit, neck warmer, extra masks and lots of wool socks.
How about a puppet theater? Melissa & Doug make a tabletop onea tabletop one that’s on sale right now if they don’t have a lot of space.
Me Readers! Type “me reader” into Amazon, there are a ton. And a lot of them are discounted right now. Here’s one: https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Frozen-Reader-Electronic-Library/dp/1503700380/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?crid=2Q5NTUN9LMCI0&keywords=toddler+me+reader&qid=1637719330&qsid=130-7777179-8301269&sprefix=toddler+me+reader%2Caps%2C82&sr=8-9&s...
There’s a Me Reader with different characters and books that does that. It looks like a tablet. We got the Paw Patrol one last year for my youngest but they have general Nickelodeon, Disney/Pixar, etc.
Disney Classic - Lion King, Finding Nemo, Aladdin and more! - Me Reader Electronic Reader and 8 Sound Book Library - PI Kids https://www.amazon.com/dp/1450868711/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NNHRGQXN097YX1BRXB4E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Are you me? We have a 3.5 year old with the same problem. I got this plate on Amazon that makes eating into a game and it has encouraged her to try more foods at dinner. Genuine Fred DINNER WINNER Kids' Dinner Tray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I0VUMBI/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_82WJB1HW94WC3GWEYVGZ?psc=1
This is the one I got, holding up great and we fight over who gets to sit in it fairly often 😂
Giantex 14-Position Floor Folding Gaming Sofa Chair Lounger Folding Adjustable Sleeper Bed Couch Recliner, Purple https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FD2SXWT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_C1V6HGK7PR5BRFX11YT5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I can’t recommend this enough!! We travel a lot and this is perfect for our kids (5, 3). It blows up super quickly with the provided pump, is big enough for us to lay in too, and has held up to my kids being crazy jumping beans on it!
Jeowoqao Boy's Dress Up Costumes Set, Role Play Set 11-pcs Dress Up Trunk Pirate, Chef, Construction Worker, Policeman Costume Fit Kids Age from 3-6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F245W8V/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_74PZNTAF56ZJNXTFJDFK
I got these for my girls cuz I didn’t just want to get princess ones
When I had our baby, the best things people bought for my older daughter were these ‘water magic’ painting books (eg https://www.amazon.co.uk/Galt-Toys-Animals-Colouring-Children/dp/B000UFEGUK/ref=asc_df_B000UFEGUK/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309973034063&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15796492240790019813&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt... ) and Usborne sticker books with clothes where you dress the dolls. They were the absolute best at keeping her entertained and mess-free
My kid showed interests in globes so I got him this leapfrog magic adventures globe when it was on sale earlier this year. Not sure what else, all he ever asks for is Hot Wheels City but I let the family buy those because the are ubiquitous and affordable.
Honestly I'm bout ready to get rid of a lot of toys for Christmas....
We have 2 of these gates, and they are perfect for my 3 year old to open (which, is NOT what I wanted, but oh well). They're lightweight, we added the banister attachment for the top of the stairs, there's no bottom bar to trip over. They're also great for keeping dogs contained.
Note: they are probably cheaper elsewhere... we did NOT pay that much for them.
My daughter started opening this one herself around 2 1/2 years old. It works for the top of the stairs but doesn’t close automatically. Munchkin Easy Close
You start with recognizing letters (both upper and lower case) and learning the sounds the letters make. If she is interested in learning more I know folks who have really liked this method: https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Child-Read-Lessons/dp/0671631985
I started doing it with my 3.5 year old (this is on the early side) but she doesn’t want to do it yet. I’ll check again in a few months.
We use several different ones, but we like these for disposable ones:
WeCare Disposable Face Masks For Kids, 50 Tie Dye Masks, Individually Wrapped https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DGBFSGF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_H168YD9XCZZ6JAVYK47S - They are slightly big on my 3.5 year old, but we tie small knots at each end of the ear loop and that seems to do the trick.
We have a bunch of the older ones from Old Navy too (that you can adjust) but like others have said, it doesn’t seem they are selling those right now.
My almost 3yo wears these very reliably. They're very soft, adjustable and have a nose wire that doesn't dig in. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CCFQMPY/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_1HT0P67V39H3DZT8ZQT5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got the linked pants for my son to wear to “mud camp” (occupational therapy camp outdoors in the wet, wet woods.) he literally sat down in a puddle and stayed dry (sprayed with water repelling camp spray.)
Mountain Warehouse Pakka Kids Waterproof Rain Pants -For Boys & Girls Navy 5-6 Years https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MXPFPN2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_ySyC5iCFDzqbi
Munchkin Any Angle Click Lock Weighted Straw Cup, Blue/Green, 10oz, 2pk https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07895LCBX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TM1N7TS0T2N3XMQ6PEK7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My absolute fav!
My 3.5 year old is the same way. Used to eat tons of stuff, seems to be at the height of pickiness right now. Often has nothing for dinner but milk. Still growing and healthy. 🤷♀️
Pickiness at this age is super frustrating but also normal. Since he’s not underweight or sick from his eating habits there isn’t a medical problem here, he’s just picky. That’s good, because food acceptance is a long-term game and it’s not something that is solved right away, so since he is not sick you can take your time.
Have you heard of Ellyn Satter? She is widely acclaimed for how to teach children food acceptance over time. The core of it is the division of responsibility, where you as the parent pick the what, when, and where of food (you pick which foods are offered, you have a regular schedule of meals and snacks and don’t offer food outside those times) and the kid chooses whether and how much of those foods he or she will eat. Zero pressure from parents, the kid will eat what they want (or not). And that’s it. She recommends you choose at least one thing the kid has eaten before to offer as part of the meal, but no other catering to the kid and no making them or bribing them to eat. You may offer a food a dozen times or more before the kid will even try it, like I said you are playing the long game here.
Division of responsibility - https://www.ellynsatterinstitute.org/how-to-feed/the-division-of-responsibility-in-feeding/
Her book- https://www.amazon.com/Child-Mine-Feeding-Revised-Updated/dp/0923521518
The Willy Nilly books are very cute. He goes on adventures, not really bad behavior but like 'we made a go kart and willy wanted to try it out so he snuck into it", so I don't know if that counts.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0753HGVGW?ref\_=dbs\_dp\_rwt\_sb\_tpbk&binding=paperback
First off - congratulations for adding to the resources available for parents to get their children reading early.
I also know a self published author who just recently wrote a workbook to help teach young children the number line. I hope you don’t mind if I leave the link right here for parents that are looking at books for their children.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09538HDWW?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860
Definitely build a fence. I cherish my privacy and I would be very uncomfortable with this too. Get a padlock for the little gate in the meantime. A nice fence will also make your garden pop! As a fellow gardener :)
Talk to the parents... We were in a similar boat when it came to meltdowns about coming inside after neighbourhood play. We talked with my kiddos bf's mom about not letting our kids knock on each other's doors in case it's not a good time and prevent the meltdown by instead texting as parents to see if it's a good time. Sometimes me and my neighbour just don't feel like supervising outdoor play!
And when they do play, require the other parent to be there until/if you know the kids well enough to take on the task of supervising alone. We have a great countdown clock that we set when we want to end a play session so everyone can see when it's time to come in. My daughter is 3 too and responds soooo well to it! We also just had a baby and the timer helps take the pressure off of the real reason (baby needs a nap). But if he's on his phone all day I wouldn't let my kid play there unsupervised. Maybe others are more chill but not me haha. Good luck!
We got a clock!
LittleHippo Mella Ready to Rise Children's Sleep Trainer, Alarm Clock, Night Light and Sleep Sounds Machine (Tropical Teal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVYVRXW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4H1CXQBTJYNRAM4CYVRA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
When the clock shuts its eyes, it’s bedtime. In the morning, they can come out when it turns green. Yellow means quiet time in their room.
We bought this book for my son before he returned to daycare. He’s two so he doesn’t wear a mask at school, but he wears one when we go to the store and his teachers and all adults at his daycare wear masks. I felt like it did a good job addressing the fact that he might be nervous about seeing his friends for the first time after a long time, hand washing for 20 seconds, and waving instead of hugging friends. I agree that it’s probably best to curb the “bad germs” comments about other kids. We talk to my son about hand washing as it relates to going to the bathroom (“poop and pee have germs”), before eating meals, and just general hygiene, so it isn’t people who have germs necessarily. Talk to your pediatrician too for their insight. Ours was very helpful with this transition.
We have this one. We received it second-hand from a friend, and while we’ve never purposely made it wet, we’ve accidentally left it out in the rain deflated and my daughter jumped on it after the rain stopped. It’s held up great. She uses it all the time. It’s a little hard for her to climb into where there’s the split in the net, so she just climbs up the slide (she’s 39 inches tall). I’ve also gotten in it with her with no problems. I’d recommend this one if you could keep it in a garage or had a large space; it’s pretty loud and has a decent footprint.