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Can confirm, wagons are the bee's knees with my toddler and you can haul around all the accoutrements of a day out. Folding wagons are amazing. Easy to store and transport. I can take to toddler to go pick up takeout in our neighborhood with little fuss and even less carrying. Only downside is navigating small spaces is nigh impossible and the turning radius is that of a pregnant whale.
Yay! You should check out this book. It's super fun to read and there's a recipe in the back with instructions for adults and instructions for kids to help the adults. Highly recommend.
Bee-Bim Bop! https://smile.amazon.com/dp/0547076711/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_GH8AQ1MSAQNV4PRGS5KP
And if you like it try this one too
Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao https://smile.amazon.com/dp/153441133X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_N6TF3P94W7M4WC0G300V
We have this thing. It comes with a bag so you can fold it up and keep it isolated from other things. It's actually super awesome and stable
Put a post-it note on the flush sensor.
100% understand the noise though--my older kid hates the hand dryers and despite being a huge cling-on, he started standing outside the bathroom at 3 if I had to go and he didn't because it was just so noisy.
IMHO the best child proofing are the ones they are physically unable to access, so locks or deadbolts that are way above their height even if they are standing on a chair.
E.g. 2-Pack Child Proof Deluxe Top Door Lock https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MXBLOSG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lUxpCbXCRJZJ2
And for detecting when door is opened, these kind of sensors are cheap and easy to install and use, if you remember to disable / enable when necessary.
E.g. Door Window Alarm 2 Pack Noopel Home Security Wireless Magnetic Sensor Burglar Anti-Theft 120DB Alarm with Batteries Included - DIY Easy To Install (2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BVSMDNP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3VxpCbCR9TRG6
I know right?! I’m 21 weeks pregnant and when I saw the commercial I was like “oh most certainly not ever happening.” I guess someone at Hasboro is evil. Edit: Did I mention said toys are animatronic little spiders? ��
Hey!!! Every park in Disney has kid friendly/family friendly, quiet Baby Centers - fine for toddlers too. Need a nap? Need to sit in A/C for a bit? Need a lower stimulation area or more attention for going potty? Bam. Baby Care Center
Edit: it doesn’t solve your whole problem but they may have a step stool in there or: portable potty from oxo for $21
My two favorites have been:
Brain Rules for Baby by John Medina
How Toddlers Thrive by Tovah P. Klein
​
I listened to both via audiobook, narrated by the authors.
Medina is a neuroscientist and totally geeks out about the long term studies and advice that can be pulled based on observable and repeatable outcomes.
Klein runs a research facility that doubles as a daycare/preschool connected with a university that studies early childhood behaviors.
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Both are clearly experts in their field, and their advice is rather similar, but both bring a fun perspective. They're both parents as well, and very clearly love their kids as well as put their money where their mouth is!
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The company Haba has lots of cute games for little ones. We just got First Orchard and it’s fantastic for our 2 year old. The pieces are high quality, and it’s easy for us to get through a game in a few minutes. She gets to work on throwing the die, color matching, and taking turns. Plus it’s cooperative so the group wins or loses together. Highly recommended!
I learned this the hard way: swim diapers only hold in poop. Once the kid is out of the water, change them into regular diapers unless you want them peeing on towels, chairs, your lap, etc.
Your kid will not be in the water for 2-3 hours, so you will just change them as soon as they get out of the water. Don't overthink it. :)
We got reusable swim diapers. They're awesome. I like the iPlay brand.
Hey there! I’m a play therapist and I highly recommend reading this book ( a terrible thing happened ) with your son and having a gentle conversation about how you’re here to help him talk about the bad thing that happened. This book is very vague about the ‘terrible thing’ that happened and shows how Sherman tried a few ways to deal with it. The vagueness helps kids be able to connect it to whatever bad happened to them and apply it. You don’t have to go into details about what happened to your son, just explore the story and establish that you and your hubby (and anyone else you approve of) are safe people to talk to and who can help him. As adults we expect kids to know this, but sometimes we have to be explicit. And I know at 2.5 it’s hard for him to articulate what happened and how he feels, but he can definitely learn to turn to you when his emotions get too big to handle.
Allow me to be a nerd for a moment: trauma responses happen because we don’t process those memories as ‘memories’. They get trapped as real, current events. Especially for kids who don’t have fully developed memory processes. So this means that when something reminds your son of the scary event, he can feel like he’s reliving it all over again. That’s terrifying! So as parents the best thing we can do is establish coping skills (deep breathing, lemon squeezes) that are age appropriate and model them for the kiddo when they’re reliving things. Practice with him in calm moments so that he can do it with you in scary moments.
This stuff is so hard because they’re so small and can’t talk or process things like adults can. But you absolutely can help him and get your sweet baby back! A play therapist in your area will be able to do some coaching and in vivo help with you guys!
I see you and know exactly how you feel. I can't tell you how many times I desperately wanted to just sit my kid in front of a screen at that age, but alas - the attention span of a gnat! And throw a pandemic on top of everything? Yeah, we're all at the end of our ropes.
Is daycare an option for you? That would certainly help during the week. I'm not sure what I would have done without it. As far as the mess goes, Consider also putting down a small tarp or plastic sheeting under the.high chair to minimize clean up. They make pretty ones, but this is similar to what we used: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GPIMEY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_IekdGbC4G862J. Pouches and smocks (example: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HPQTB2A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_PjkdGbYX9HDY5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) were my go-to for a lot of meals which helped minimize the mess, too.
And while the "hard" changes as your kid gets older, this, too, shall pass. So hang in there.
There are two apps.
The first is PBS Kids, which only has a couple of episodes of Daniel Tiger (that is free) there is also a PBS Kids Channel for $4.99 and that has all the episodes through Season 11. It has been a godsend for us because the channel also has Daniel Tiger "Movies" that are 2 hours long and are essentially 4-5 episodes all linked together.
We have been enjoying the channel and knowing that PBS is getting supported too feels better.
I personally will not get a large trampoline, ever. It increases your liability on your homeowners insurance, as well as the premium. My realtor also told us that trampolines tend to detract from the appeal of a house if it's put on the market. They are also incredibly unsafe, and I've personally witnessed two friends and one family member break limbs and chip teeth from these things.
However...
I like these little ones - much safer, can be used indoors, smaller/store-able, cheaper.
I’m a big fan of these no mess crayola coloring books, the kind with markers that only show up on the special paper. Regular crayons and a coloring book are awesome, too.
I also hoard the little toys you get in fast food kid meals in my purse and whip them out one at a time.
Just back from long-distance trip with 21-month-old boy -- several planes, trains, automobiles -- and this tiny thing was WOW: Portable Toilet for Kids, Reusable Foldable Toilet for Toddler (Amazon link)
No touching nasty public toilet, ever. No public toilet at all? No prob. I couldn't believe how well it worked. And worked especially well for a boy, even without a splash guard.
this is one we have https://www.amazon.com/Poke-Dot-MacDonalds-Poke-able-Poppin/dp/160169024X there's all different categories though
What I found recommended was to start working with scissors at 2. You can find scissors that only cut paper, or there are scissors that pop back open on their own, so your kiddo only has to work on squeezing at first. We have this and these for my kiddo. The second ones are only used with really close supervision. You can also search for "spring scissors" and find other ones that hold themselves open.
My son is almost 3 and now we put him in an adult sized bed with a little pillow wall when traveling. When he was at that weird in between like you are describing, we took this pack n play mattress and laid it on the floor. It’s extremely light and folds up into a carrier, so easy to travel with. https://www.amazon.com/Milliard-Mattress-Conveniently-Folds-Bonus/dp/B01KGH4RWI
The Aveeno Baby Nighttime Balm (not the lotion, the nighttime balm specifically) was an absolute lifesaver when my son has really bad ezcema when he was younger. My mom even uses it herself now.
I originally thought it was better to go with super soft fabric ones, but I’ve learned the stiffer ones actually stay up on my 2 year olds tiny nose better. I finally tried these after hearing a lot of recs and they are awesome. They actually stay in the right spot on her face and she loves them. I will say she does chew on them still but I just bring a bunch of extras when we’re out and swap when they get too wet.
My husband uses something like this bike seat .
My daughter is about to be two and used it all of last summer, and has a few times this spring. She will ask for “bike rides” and loves going on them.
We got ours has a hand me down and sometimes I will see them on buy sell trade sites as well.
Happy biking!
I think the rubber scrubby ones are for gums, when they get a good amount of teeth that's when you move to a brush. But, I'm sure something is better than nothing.
I just found my favorite toothbrush for my 2 year old on amazon. I use flouride free training toothpaste because my LO still swallows a good bit of it.
I’ve seen this book recommended in a few similar threads. I haven’t bought it for my son yet, but it’s in our wishlist...
My Body Belongs to Me from My Head to My Toes https://www.amazon.com/dp/1626363455/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0y.yAb35HQ6D1
Big recommendation for this folding potty seat. Folds up into my backpack and I don't have to worry about a dirty (or wet...bleh!) toilet seat. I've also heard that some people bring Post-Its to cover the automatic flush sensor if that scares your child too.
Yes! We had the same issue around 2.5yo. Got the Daniel Tiger Visits the Doctor book and the Melissa and Doug Dr’s coat that comes with some doctor’s instruments.
It’s incredible - between both these things, and the DT episode on tv, he now complies with the doctor’s check up.
Daniel Visits the Doctor (Daniel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/1481417347?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Melissa & Doug Personalized Doctor Role Play Costume Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J402NRK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y8uNCb7VT8W58
We’re in Minnesota and spend time outside everyday in the winter if it’s above 10 degrees. A neck warmer goes a long way (if your kid will wear it) because snow down the back of your jacket is the worst! Also, a hat that comes down over the ears with flaps vs a beanie or regular knit hat makes a big difference because otherwise I’m constantly pulling it down. I’m also a huge fan of SnowStoppers (https://www.amazon.com/SnowStoppers-Nylon-Waterproof-Colorful-Mittens/dp/B004D2EC7S/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2ZL5ZENMAHFU0&dchild=1&keywords=snowstoppers+kids+waterproof+mittens&qid=1633879683&sprefix=snowstoppers&sr=8-3) which are kids’ mittens that go further up the arm, though I’m sure there are other similar brands. It’s also helpful to have a drying rack by your door (in your mud room or wherever you come inside) because kids have so much stuff that we run out of drying room. We have a folding one that we can tuck out of the way when we’re not using it. Lastly, make sure you’re bundled up too, I always think I won’t be getting snowy but I always do!
We put this on our front door to keep the toddler from opening it on her own. It's been working well, though it can be a bit sticky at times for the adults if you're not familiar with how to work it.
We own this one: https://www.amazon.com/Mirari-Wake-Alarm-Clock-Night-Light/dp/B00EAHSBV4
Upside: 'green means go' is a mantra that our 2 year old gets.
Downside: it only stays green for 30 mins, so if your LO sleeps in, and misses the green window, you're all SOL.
Depending on the airline, they may or may not offer early family boarding. Ask the gate agent when you get to the gate - sometimes, even if they don't offer family boarding, they'll tell you to go ahead with the preboarding people, or beckon you to go ahead after they board first class.
Your diaper bag does NOT count as a carryon item. It's a freebie. Shove everything you can into it.
Bring all the snacks and all the toys. Anything that can keep the three-year-old occupied. Hell, buy NEW toys and books for the trip.
Pack some Purell wipes or Wet Ones. The tray tables are the dirtiest things on the plane.
Get some of those sippy cup leashes (like https://smile.amazon.com/PBnJ-Baby-SippyPal-Holder-Chevron/dp/B01F1F7E2K) and adjust them on the plane so that they are short enough to keep a sippy from hitting the floor.
You may be able to tucker the three year old out at the airport... or s/he may get tired, but be too excited about the plane to fall asleep, and end up hella cranky.
When you're on the plane, you should obviously and visibly try to calm your kids if they fuss. People don't like fussy kids, but people hate parents who don't try to manage their fussy kids.
Finally, and I'm 85% kidding, Benadryl.
I can't help you with the running and jumping.. but I just bought the most excellent sunscreen applicatorsunscreen applicator and it makes putting on sunscreen so much easier
I was gifted this back massager. It's been nice to occasionally sit down in the evening and get pampered for 10 minutes. Parenting has been hard on my back!
A robot vacuum has been really helpful for us, but it is an expensive buy and while it was a great gift for me, not everyone gets excited about vacuums.
I have the vent screwed to the floor, so he can't pull it up and it's covered with his mattress, so he forgets that it's even there.
I store all of his clothes in the closet. There's an end table in his room next to the closet door that holds a night light and a small space heater and a floor lamp next to that. Those things are surrounded by an extended baby gate. It wraps about it all, so he can't get to any of it. Instead of using the long gate to keep him in somewhere, I used it to keep him out of stuff I don't want him messing with, like his closet, light, etc.
In the rest of the room, he has his bed and toy box. There is no other furniture besides the end table inside area sectioned off by the baby gate. I also have a camera on the wall that gives me a total view of his room so I can watch what he's doing.
I sleep very soundly knowing he can't get out of his room as of right now.
As far as the changing table, I've never used one, because I consider it unnecessary and a waste of space when I can just as easily change him on my sofa or somewhere else in the house on a washable incontinency pad like this: https://www.amazon.com/RMS-Washable-Reusable-Incontinence-Underpads/dp/B01MUEVH9X/
We got the Simplisafe system from Amazon. You can choose if you pay for monitoring or not, and it has door sensors that will make a sound every time the door is opened, whether the system is armed or not. I really appreciate knowing when the door is opened!
We got this timer and tell ours "when the blue is gone we are leaving/quiet time is over/its dinner time etc. So far it's been helpful!
Kidzlane Wooden My Body Puzzle for Toddlers & Kids - 29 Piece Girls Anatomy Play Set Ages 3+ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YSVHXL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1QKeGbK7V8KMZ
This is the one she has, they make a boy version as well. I know Melissa and Doug have a pretty cool one, too. If your kid is a bit older I know there is a 3D one with gooey parts that come out my niece likes.
Edit to say this is very much a basic intro to anatomy for toddlers.
Toddleroo by North States - We use it to partition our living room. Our 3 yr is tall enough to wear 5t tops and pants, but he stays on his side.
I’ve seen it at Buy Buy Baby, so you might be able to use a coupon.
Toddleroo by North States Superyard 6 Panel Baby Play Yard/Barrier with Wall Mount Kit: Create a safe play area or extra wide baby gate anywhere. 38.5" - 201" wide, 18.5 ft. enclosure (26" tall, Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JGDGG23/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8DE5N3FMN8YX87VSCWW9
This is something we used. Also, when our 3 1/2 year old hits us now we tell him we can't be around someone who wants to hurt us and we leave the room. Baby gates are great for creating that space.
Hands Are Not for Hitting (Board Book) (Best Behavior Series) https://www.amazon.com/dp/157542200X/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_HSZH2EGQRBPP7BJYJD8E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We're not in the clear yet, though, as our kid is still pretty damn mean. At least he doesn't hit us as much as he used to :/
May I introduce you to this
It does 6 cherries at once! It works for small plums to :) Sorry I can't do the fancy link lol
We make a 200 ppm sanatizing solution from bleach and distilled water.
We got some test strips to test the strength of the final solution. Just to be certain. Got those off of Amazon.
This solution is great on food contact surfaces once dry.
It's also incredibly cheap.
1 gallon distilled water plus 2.5 teaspoons of bleach (sodium hypochlorite)
Distilled is best as water with minerals can neutralize the bleach.
I buy these black socks from amazon. They have lasted forever!
Zaples Baby Non Slip Grip Ankle Socks with Non Skid Soles for Infants Toddlers Kids Boys Girls https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N2M1V8N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WleuFbYWXY5JH
Disney+ lets you download stuff too! I just downloaded a bunch of stuff to an old iPad, left it plugged in, and put it in airplane mode so my 2-year old could watch stuff on our recent road trip. I also bought her something called “the quiet book” from Amazon and she was a little young to be able to do everything but it occupied her! I also made a box of new toys and every time she got bored, I just whipped out something new.
Mine was going through this a couple months ago and I was so desperate that I just started driving her around town until she slept. But I don’t have a little baby either so not sure if this could work for you but it was just a phase for about 2 or 3 weeks (didn’t drive every day just the days I felt she really was tired) and then she started sleeping later in the mornings so her patterns changed.
Ours will literally not sleep anywhere besides her crib or the car so I just tried it out and we got through it. Most of the books I’ve read say that earlier bed times are best for overtired kids because being overtired starts a vicious cycle of being hyper snd unable to sleep. It’s all so confusing. But maybe if you’re able to drive her around after lunch and see if she’s able to conk out and go from there. But I’d still recommend earlier bedtime since she’s in a sleep deficit.
For reference here’s the book I’m referring to: Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, 4th Edition: A Step-by-Step Program for a Good Night's Sleep https://www.amazon.com/dp/0553394800/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FHFTFPNC2VVCC78AMKPR
I have to use a thin sleep sack with my son. (Amazon doesn’t have a 12-36 month one in stock right now now but they probably will soon). My son was able to climb out of the crib at 11 months before he could walk using his bare feet to walk up the slats. The sleep sack has been able to contain him since that day...for now. He’s 19 months.
This is a more affordable version of the Hatch light. Basically explain to B3 that he cannot get out of bed (unless it’s to use the restroom) until the light is a certain color. You can change this from your phone, I’m not sure if you can program it like the hatch but this method worked for me! So lay him down for nap and tell him “you have to try and sleep until the light turns xxx”
iFongsh Night Light, RGB LED Night Light Bluetooth with APP Control, Smart Lamp Color Changing Dimmable with Motion Sensor for Kids and Adults, Suitable for Party, Living Room, Camping, Dinner https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099DJPB5Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Z1KE71HNFJTMRQMEWTBX
Just a thought, some companies make little plastic frames of sorts that go under the mask to keep it off your mouth. Maybe you could find one for kids!
Cool Protection Stand - 3D Mask Bracket - Face Mask Inner Support Frame - Plastic Bracket - More Space for Comfortable Breathing Protect Lipstick Washable Reusable https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B088CT535G/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_JTXHFVT7NW3Z9P8WGTXZ
Not the original commenter, but someone somewhere in this subreddit recommended this one I bought that just arrived today
My 15 month old also loves the vacuum, so I think he will go berserk when he sees this
There is a thing I put in the door so they can’t shut it all the way. The one I found looks like a panda.
Door Pinch Guard and Door Slam Stopper 6pk. Use Safety Door Guard Made of Soft Foam to Keep Door Open. Serves As a Door Protector for Kids by Arcleer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CMJS8D5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M7M3SPETSHHDEBX2BT2F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
One of my favorite fall/winter layers is rain pants there are lots of different brands but Jan and jul have been my favorite. They have come in handy more times than I can count. Camping, hiking, playing in snow or just in the backyard when it’s raining. I love them!
We have something similar to this for our sliding door. My 3 year old son was letting himself out all the time and this has held up for the last year or so.
Also, you could install an alarm/alert that goes off if the door is opened. Kids are smart and eventually they will learn to pull a chair over and unlatch a chain or take the safer lock off.
Sliding Glass Door Child Lock - OKEFAN 4 Pack Baby Safety Slide Window Locks for Kids Proof Patio Closet Doors No Drilling Tools Needed (Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TQJVQG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_C4D1NEE8YHCFYD39GFCA
Watercolors! I found this really great set of watercolors on Amazon, they are so vibrant—way better than the kind I remember as a kid and it comes with the brush with the water inside. SO easy to pull out and clean up. It’s been a lifesaver for me as I paint myself and really want my two year old to enjoy it with me but pulling out and cleaning up the other paints takes forever and she’s over it in 15 minutes
Watercolor Paint Set, Taotree 48-Color Watercolors Cake & a Brush a Refillable Water Brush Pen, Portable Water Colors Paints Set for Kids Children Students Adults Beginner Artists Painting Supplies https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JHM3YSR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TQMHEX99PTSR3XXFW6C5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
“Oh no! Your tower fell over. That’s so frustrating! The fun thing about blocks is that you can build them over and over again! Can you put it back together or should we play something different?” Empathize! Something that is not is a big deal to us feels like a big deal to them. It sounds like you’re being supportive, it just takes time. How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen has helped me a lot.
Tents? You can buy small collapsible tents and tunnels to set up. My kids love them, and they collapse to store behind a bookcase when not in use.
Edit:
This is the set we have: https://www.amazon.com/Playz-Playhouse-Tunnel-Basketball-Toddlers/dp/B073PT4MH7/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=kids+tent+tunnel+indoor&qid=1605534776&sprefix=kids+tent+tunnel&sr=8-6
I don't have experience with this yet, as my baby just turned 1, but I just finished reading the book "How to Talk so Little Kids will Listen" Link to Amazon it seems like it might help you here. I think the advice from that book would be, acknowledge her feelings by saying something like, "you hate getting ready for bed. wouldn't it be fun if you were a giraffe, that only had to sleep 30 minutes a day!?" And hopefully acknowledging her feelings will get some more insight into why she doesn't actually want to fall asleep or get ready for the day. Sorry if that doesn't help much, but i 100% recommend the book!
i'm sorry things are so stressful! hopefully you'll find something that works to calm her down soon! and good luck with your new work routine!
Yes, this!
This is how we got our toddler to be ok with the carseat. “When we drive, we all sit it our chairs, with the seatbealt on, because it keeps us safe. Cars can break or have an accident and then our seats keep us safe and we don’t have big ouchy-ouchy’s”. I said this in frustration, because I was running late. And to my utter suprise, our almost 2 y o toddler listened to it fully and climbed into the seat herself. And it has worked ever since pretty well. I found an explaination that worked for her.
I haven’t found a suitable wording to explain why we change nappies, but I have ordered Germ Theory for Babies book. My kid gladly washes her hands, because that’s something I do too. But I feel that with the diaper, we can’t be rolemodels, show her how we do if. Unless we start showing and explaining her how we change our underwear?
We had luck with having our girl wear swim goggles to keep water out of her eyes, also using a bottle like the one linked below to rinse has been a total game changer for us!
Perineal Lavette Irrigation Bottle, (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B9N9RQH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2SGDS2DYFN9EYHA41905
Been reading this book: How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide to Life with Children Ages 2-7 (The How To Talk Series) https://www.amazon.com/dp/150113163X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VMH1M9S2X2WNDTHA1Q9N
It’s really helped a lot with my own patience and understanding of how their little minds work. But I’m with you, it’s so infuriating because I’m a very punctual person with anxiety lol. I read one time that a mom would let her kid sleep in their school clothes so that it was one less thing to fight over in the morning. But yeah, they of course don’t understand our time schedules and need to be somewhere so perhaps visuals could help or timers. A reward system could help a lot too. Good luck!
Great comment! Always within an arms reach and please familiarize yourself with the signs of drowning! (Former lifeguard & swim instructor)
We just bought an infant PFD on Amazon for our 18 month old for a recent stay at a resort with beachfront access. I allowed him to be in the pool or water without it if an adult was within arms reach, but I'm so glad we had an approved vest. I'm not a fan of other flotation devices.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FT9W399/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_6ENG8ZJRG3RZA9NAR2FP?psc=1
This thing made it a lot easier. I call it his waterfall hat and he plays with the water as it goes over the hat. I spent some time wearing it around the house and talking about how cool it was before we tried it in the bath, and it took a few times before he really took to it, but hair washing is much easier now.
I really like our shade shelter - we have this one and like it! It’s nice to nestle all our stuff into and great to retreat to if it’s too hot, sunny or windy.
https://www.amazon.com/Lightspeed-Outdoors-Shelter-Clip-Up-Privacy/dp/B087TB4GTG
ECR4Kids - ELR-12683 SoftZone... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GAAGCWS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I bought this one and my 15 month old loves them like crazy. They are always climbing on them or moving them around.
Our little one has a binky but he also likes to hold one to fiddle with. Maybe you can look for a small super soft stuffed animal or taggie style toy that keeps her hands occupied? You could start to block your face with it and then maybe eventually she will prefer it.
https://www.amazon.com/G-Tree-Baby-Comfort-Blanket-Taggy/dp/B07JPG2LDY
Green toys makes some good trucks. My son’s favorites are the dump truck and the recycling truck. Many times they go on amazon lightening sale and you can get them for 40% off.
Had to dig back in my Amazon order history - wow 2018 lol! But I did find them - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073RYQ223/ Edit - we still have all four of these undies and are currently on round 2 - using them with my 3 year old for overnight protection - so they hold up!
I carried one of these in my purse or diaper bag for public bathrooms when my daughter was first potty training https://www.amazon.com/Folding-Travel-Toilets-Non-Slip-Suction/dp/B07MTRHDXZ if I forgot it I did the sit on the seat and put her on in front of me trick, and we still keep one of these in the car https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Tot-2-Potty-Travel/dp/B0771FFJ22/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3O8D4IYE26MRQ&keywords=oxo+travel+potty&qid=1649353962&s=baby-products&sprefix=oxo+tra%2Cbaby-products%2C47&sr=1-4 that we have used in the car or the playground. She's only 3 and she already is fine on normal toilets, I just lift her on. It was a short timeframe where she was wobbly on big toilets.
We have this travel potty. It has a bag that it folds up into and you can either put it on a big potty or use it on its own with the bags that go in it, that way your toddler can just sit easily with their feet on the ground. We keep it in the car or diaper bag at all times, comes in super handy on long trips or at parks, our toddler loves it.
Basically every public toilet, I help hold my toddler up as she sits with on the front or sideways on the edge (depending on the shape / her corresponding most stable position). Its super awkward but functional, NBD for pee but poop is funny as I can feel her whole body tense up trying to go.
It WOULD be awesome if they'd install something like these without the lid:
https://www.amazon.com/Elongated-Toilet-Training-Anti-bacterial-Plastic/dp/B07FR384L6
I do this too!
We do have a portable seat too from this toilet - fits in my backpack. Summer Infant Potty
I've got this and it folds nicely, fits in my diaper bag (and purse) and doesn't weigh it down.
We use this: Folding Travel Potty Seat for Boys and Girls, Fits Round & Oval Toilets, Non-Slip Suction Cups, Includes Free Travel Bag - Jool Baby Products https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MTRHDXZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1F01N0S295KK4E217NCR - It folds up incredibly small and I take it everywhere.
We also have these: Toilet Seat Covers Disposable - 20 Pack - Waterproof, Ideal for Kids and Adults – Extra Large, Individually Wrapped for Travel, Toddlers Potty Training in Public Restrooms (Dinosaurs, 20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085LNWCS4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6ZBCZNSK4PRNQJMGGPJV - which are awesome. I put one on before the potty seat because germs, and it works great.
My kid likes to use every public restroom so we’ve had to figure out the best way to be prepared.
Try “Stop.” And then “Dangerous” or something specific to what the risk is. Also fwiw power outlets aren’t very dangerous. Especially for just fingers. Unless we’re talking the breakers?
There are also some awesome locks you can put on the outside of things. We use some on cabinets and one on the oven, etc. we like either the sliders where one side is fixed and the other end reaches over and attaches, and you slide a little lever to pop it off. Or thesemunchkin lock that you pinch.
I agree that the daycare may be looking for what you are doing so my response is geared toward stuff we try.
My 2yr old also is not a fan of transitions. One idea that is working on occasion for us is a countdown visual timer. So I'll tell him when the red's all gone we will stop and do the next activity. We also warn for most transitions so he has a bit of heads up. (3 more times then done, last one, etc).
Time Timer 8 inch Visual Timer -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FBJCRMD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Of course he's still a toddler and sometimes he's just not ready to stop and can't communicate it effectively and gets really big emotions!
Honestly our little guy wasn't really interested in a tablet or screen until he was around 3. As others here have suggested, new cheap little toys, coloring books and kid friendly snacks. Start training LO now on keeping a mask on and being ok with you having one on.
Consider getting an airplane child harness. Littles are already used to this sort of strapdown from their car seats. Airplane seatbelts aren't secure enough and there's nothing like the deathstare from the flight attendant or other passengers when a two year old just melts down because they think they can go anywhere.
But the later evening flight was also one of our tricks. 1mg of melatonin, a 8pm flight, a pillow from home and out like a light went the tot. He's become quite a traveler as he's gotten older; we fly from east coast of the US to mountain west a few times a year. Roughest moments were in the terminal when he was 2.5. He would just BOLT off, usually for a door that would trigger an alarm.
Good Luck!
All of the “never touch a...” books are pretty big with my little guy.
Also, these intro to philosophy baby books are so cool and my friend wrote them.
Is she old enough to understand the green light clock. It turns green when it is late enough to get out of bed. Here
I have this that always stays in the car whenever we go anywhere, or gets thrown in the bottom of the stroller. Skip Hop Pronto Changing Pad, Triangles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SKL8M0Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P6KMGSG6JX01X64KYAQN If we aren’t far from the car, I’ll leave it there while we play or do stuff. No point to dragging it along. Anything else (snacks, sunscreen, etc.), I’ll just throw in my purse.
The child proof door knob covers will put a stop to that if they work on your door..
Try goodnights! They come in much bigger sizes. If it makes you feel any better around that age my daughter was also sometimes peeing through and sometimes waking up bone dry and then six months later it just clicked and she told me she wanted to wear underwear at night and very rarely has accidents now and no more diapers (yay!). I thought for sure we would be in something overnight longer.
Just make sure if you install anything with wires, make sure they can't get to it by using a wire organizer and a cover. So they can't get electrocuted or get wrapped up in it.
Yeah we definitely had unintelligible sounds too. We did a hearing test and one ear wasn’t great but they said it shouldn’t cause language delay. No one recommended speech therapy. But it never hurts to try if someone does suggest it.
We got these flash cards and worked on Identifying the simpler words like car, keys, dog etc. I think that really helped. I got the idea from this video that I found helpful.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L61QFSR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My kid seems to love it.
I was recommended this for my child - seems pretty straightforward but I've been putting off the purchase because I don't totally understand it. It has good reviews!
What kind of sheet are you using in it? I bought this one which is fitted/quilted and ended up giving him a little extra padding. Bonus when he moves he doesnt hear the crinkling of the mattress so it doesnt wake him up.
My little one enjoys those fidget popper things (and honestly, so do I lol). This is what we have: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X3DDDS5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_YQJEMRJHTQN7RYVJE2YC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This book was a life saver: https://www.amazon.com/Crap-Potty-Training-Everything-Parenting/dp/1501122983/ref=nodl_.
I potty trained my son at 18 months (which is around the age she recommends) with no signs of “being ready”. I simply wanted to try before he went to daycare. the author does have a chapter on what to do for older kids and provides a lot of trouble shooting help. Everyone told me it would be harder to potty train my son because he was a boy, but I found it easier because on day 3 we had to go on a 5 hour car ride. I simply opened a jar in a car, had him go there and closed the lid without having to stop to find a bathroom every hour.
Before you buy a potty or try anything on your own, I recommend reading this book. I was hesitant at first because I didn’t like the name but my son was fully potty trained in 4 days. When he started day care at 20 months, the teachers didn’t believe me that he was potty trained and later admitted they were very surprised that he didn’t have accidents and would tell them when he needed to go. Good luck.
I think my husband feels a bit threatened by Bandit. That dog does such a great job of interacting with his kids, even when he's tired, and I think my husband feels just slightly called out. haha. Good.
Father's day gifts this year are inspiried by Bluey. The boys will be getting him:
- Lay Down Daddy Games: 25 easy to do activities with the kids when you just don't feel like getting up.
- Car/Train map shirt - get a back massage while kids play cars
I also got him a bluetooth outdoor speaker for the backyard, so it's not all subliminal messaging about playing with the kids. But, honestly, those car back massages can be pretty great when the cars have big rubber wheels!
Sending a box of boxes of wine!
Big Little Feeling Instagram helped us dealing with big emotions.
Also (our kid is 19 months) she is crying or clingy when she wants to participate or help. We went through 2 weeks with her dad cooking breakfast one handed because the toddler wouldn’t stop crying and wanted to be held. She has calmed down once we started giving her some tasks. Like stirring the porridge or adding a bit salt to it. Making her part of the food prep team has made her super calm and happy. The idea for it came from this book
I use a powder sunscreen with a brush applicator for quick sun trips and keep it in my diaper bag. I use regular sunscreen if we are gonna be at the pool or something all day. Something like this.. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RRFG7CN/ref=cm_sw_r_sm_apa_glt_fabc_YBQY8JTW36QVNFQW8TRT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes it is special for babies. Link
Here you go!
Scrubber: OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub and Tile Scrubber https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9X4WCE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8VJTEZR32F0ZV0B3YPV9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Also, splurge for the ice cream in the reds helmet! It’s a cute souvenir from the game that they can take home and be reminded of their fun time at the game each time they have ice cream!
Also, most stadiums will allow you to bring your own snacks if you have little ones and I recommend goldfish, bonus points if you put it in those cups that slow them down.
Munchkin Snack Catcher, 2 Pack, Blue/Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GKZNWTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NABNVV260N3D44H7TDWK
Yes, we do! We bought ours about 5 years ago before having kids. I really like having a projector and I'd find it really hard to go back to a regular tv.
Our projector is ceiling mounted using this contraption, so it's not easy to look directly at the bulb. You have to be up at the screen and turned around to look directly at it. Im not actually sure if the toddler can see it from her height. It has not been an issue for us.
Our screen is also ceiling mounted. We pull it down when we are ready to watch tv and put it up when not in use. It's really, really nice to not have to worry about a kid throwing things near the tv or constantly clicking buttons.
My son is about 2.5 and loves cutting up paper with safety scissors. I get a few sheets of paper, such as a few pages from a coloring book or draw some lines and curves on blank paper. Set an empty dish bin (Dollar store) or plastic platter to contain the cut up paper bits. I sit him in his booster seat at the table and he snips away happily for half an hour or more while I sit at the table and relax (not really).
It is low prep, low mess.
I was going to suggest this!
CUTE STONE Play Kitchen Sink Toys,Electric Dishwasher Playing Toy with Running Water,Upgraded Automatic Faucets and Color Changing Accessories, Role Play Sink Set Gifts for Kids Boys Girls Toddlers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08F9NLTSK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_HE1CDD9XSCH8W83TDS1Z?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Comes in other colors too if you prefer.
Making “treats” a regular part of meals and treating them neutrally, not making a big deal about it or saying “you have to eat x before you have y” can really help. I follow @feedinglittles on Instagram and they talk a lot about intuitive eating and how kids are actually really great self regulators when given the chance, and certain types of foods aren’t seen as “off limits.” It’s the perceived scarcity of the food that makes your brain feel like you need to binge it because you don’t know when you’ll have it again.
Megan (one half of Feeding Littles and a registered dietitian) struggled with disordered eating (obsessed with “healthy” foods) and through her studies and learning under the authors of this book, she began to untangle her warped relationship with food.
I personally didn’t/don’t feel like I struggle with diet culture etc, mainly because my mother never made comments about her own weight or that of mine or my sisters. My family didn’t do any diets growing up, etc. I never realized what a gift that was until college when I had friends who were dreading “freshman 15” and similar comments from their mothers while home for break. Even with that background, I’ve been learning so much about intuitive eating and been making changes in the way we talk about food around our daughter through @feedinglittles. I’m ESPECIALLY on guard about it around my husband’s family, where all women in the family are constantly talking about how “bad” they are for eating xx or how “I’ve been really good this week, I can have some y” and everyone is always yo-yo dieting and the first comment out of someone’s mouth to greet you is about how much weight you’ve lost. It’s bad.
Anyway, hope that’s helpful to you!
Omgosh yes! Check this out: Aqua Magic Doodle Mat Kids... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XP3RL3Q?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You fill the “markers” and “paint brushes” with water and as the mat gets wet, it changes color so it looks like they’re painting or drawing. As it dries, the “paint” disappears. So easy. No cleanup!
I'm going to give a possible "unpopular opinion":
>I obviously don’t expect anyone else to childproof their homes for us
Why not?
I'm not saying that your in-laws need to mount their tv to the wall or buy baby gates. But I think it's very reasonable to ask people to keep dishes out of reach or charge their phones in a bedroom with a closed door. Those fire pokers? "Hey MIL, do you mind if spouse takes these to the garage for the moment. We'll bring them back before we leave. Just would like to move them for because Toddler wants to learn jousting."
You're in someone else's home so it might not be a good idea to completely rearrange the furniture, but I don't think it's unreasonable to a ask if you can make a few changes to make your life easier.
And maybe for next time: we bring outlet covers and this travel gate with us when we stay somewhere overnight. Its proven to be very useful, even at family's houses.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VZ3PTPM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_hy21aAPJd7X13
I really love this hat I found on Amazon. It stays on really well and has great coverage, and it still fits this summer!!