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How To Get Your Toddler To Eat Healthy Food

October 27, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

Let’s be real – if you keep a bowl of veggies and a slice of pizza in front of your toddler, he will most likely go for the pizza. Your child is growing and you definitely do not want his diet to consist of fast food and junk food. A nutritious and balanced diet composed of healthy food plays an important role in a child’s overall development. Vitamins, minerals, calcium, carbohydrates, proteins – your kid needs them all.

If your child is a picky eater and heavily prefers sugary treats over fresh vegetables and fruits, this list will come in handy. Here are some recommendations for you to get your toddler to eat healthy food!

Make food fun

Healthy food doesn’t have to be boring! Cut soft carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers or strawberries, bananas etc. and make funny faces with those slices. Vegetables & fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals to your child and it’s necessary to make it a part of your toddler’s meal time. Remember, eye-catching presentation goes a long way!

kids healthy food — image credit: Bubblejuice/pixabay

Sneak in some healthy food

Prepare a purée of certain vegetables that your toddler wouldn’t eat otherwise, and use it as a sauce. Make a dip made of beetroot or avocado and serve it to your unsuspecting child. You can also disguise a few vegetables inside a bowl of chicken soup!

Make healthier options for toddlers

If your child has very limited choices in terms of food, don’t worry, you can make healthier versions of them! Include bread and cereal in his diet that is made from whole grain. Bake potato chips instead of frying them. Make pasta, but include veggies and puréed vegetable sauces in them.

toddler-healthy-fruit — image credit: Jill111/Pixabay

Be a good role model for kids

Practice what you preach! Don’t expect your children to follow a healthy balanced diet if they see you munching on fatty foods. Be a good example – eat healthy, nutritious food and your child will follow your lead.

toddler-healthy-eating — image credit: tookapic/pixabay

Set a schedule

Your child might feel like snacking on something only because he is bored. Avoid this by setting a schedule of eating. If your toddler really likes to snack in between, give him some fresh fruits to nibble on occasionally.

Set limits

If your toddler craves for some unhealthy food or chocolates occasionally, don’t refuse him completely. Make your rules clear to your children and stick to them. A small cookie, candies are completely fine as long as they are eaten in moderation.

healthy-food-toddler — image credit: EdMontez/Pixabay

Be innovative

Children get bored very easily. Make it interesting every time by adding new veggies, fruits or by presenting it in a different way. As a parent, you have to be on your toes if you don’t want your toddler to get bored with healthy food!

Consult a doctor and decide on a good, balanced diet for your child. Kidshealth.org has a nutrition guide for toddlers that you can check out.

How To Help Your Toddler Welcome A New Baby

October 26, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

A new baby on the way is an exciting time for everyone. But how do you prepare your toddler for the change that’s coming? Try to tell your three-year-old that she’s getting a new brother or sister before you tell other family and friends. If her auntie asks her if she’s looking forward to the new baby, and you haven’t explained it to her yet, she may get a bit baffled. Here are 5 ways you can prepare your toddler for a new addition to the family!

1. Talk about the new baby daily until and after she arrives.

Explain that a new baby is being brought into the family because you have more love to share. Try this, “Daddy and I had you because we had lots of love to give. We are having/had your
sister because we found even more love to give. Do you think you’ll have love in your heart to give to your new baby sister?”

2. Include your toddler in your preparations.

Let him help you pack your bag for the hospital, clean the bottles, paint the nursery and put diapers away. Take a tour of the hospital or birthing center with your toddler in tow. Be sure to
sneak a peek at the new arrivals too.

3. Have your toddler pick out a gift just for the new baby.

Take a special trip to the store and have your toddler pick out a gift just for the new baby. Likewise, pick out a special gift from the baby for his big brother or sister. When your baby and toddler meet, have them give their gifts to each other.

4. Give your toddler a role.

Talk often about the fact that each member of the family is important in their own way and makes their own special contribution. The family needs each person for it to be whole.

5. Give a little extra love.

Emphasize the older child’s importance by going through his baby pictures and talking about what a wonderful baby he was, and what a wonderful boy he is now.

Image Credits: sathyatripodi, christianabella, sathyatripodi

What Does Your Baby’s Birth Month Mean?

October 25, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

The minute your baby is born, you begin to wonder what they will be like when they grow up. What kind of personality will they have? Will you be able to influence how they turn out? Can you do something about it? Read on to know about the personality of your baby on the basis of the baby’s birth month!

10 Ways To Raise Shy Kids

October 18, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

Every child is inherently different. Some children are extroverted and outgoing, while some others are shy and introverted. Every child has a distinct temperament. If your child is one of the shy ones, don’t be worried! It’s okay to have a shy child and there is nothing wrong with it. Researchers have found that inhibition is an important aspect of temperament that is partly hereditary. They also believe that some children are biologically born shy. So instead of trying to change the fact that your little one is shy, embrace it!

Here are 10 ways you can care for your introverted bundle of joy –

1. Let them know that you understand

Your child needs conversation and he will be most comfortable with his own parents. Make sure you keep talking to your child gently and let him know that you understand and care for him.

2. Ask questions

Ask your child if something or someone is bothering him, kindly. Do not interrogate your child in any way. Have patience and give him time to open up. He will respond positively to kindness.

3. Encourage outdoor play time

Your shy child doesn’t have to stay at home all the time. Let him be around other kids of the same age. Even if he doesn’t open up to the other kids easily, at least it will expose him to social settings which will eventually help him warm up to them.

4. Be Patient

Nothing is worse than pressurizing a shy child. Don’t rush him to do something. Give him time, even if he’s taking more time than the other kids. Take a deep breath and just be patient with your child. Use a calm and soothing voice to help your child.

5. Help them find their passion

Some kids can be very timid but can express themselves better through art. Maybe your child likes to draw or maybe your child loves to play the piano. Whatever it is, channel this interest of your shy child into a passion she will truly treasure forever. It will be a liberating experience for your child and bring great joy to her.

6. Motivate your child

Be their personal cheerleader. If your child is making an effort to do something out of his comfort zone, appreciate him and remind him that he’s doing great! “I know that this was difficult for you but you did it so well!” is a great way to uplift and inspire your child.

7. Don’t shame or humiliate them

Do not compare them to other children, especially with harsh words. Don’t put them on the spot. This can give your child anxiety and lower her confidence even further. Your child doesn’t choose to be introverted – this is just how she is.

8. Don’t force them

Don’t force them into any situation they clearly want to avoid. If they really don’t want to do something, don’t push them to do it. Interacting with other people can be stressful and emotionally draining for your child and sometimes it’s better to take a break.

9. Encourage them to express themselves

Your child might have a lot of ideas, questions, opinions, fears which she just doesn’t know how to express. Make it easier for her by encouraging her to ask you anything at all. Make it a routine so that she gradually gets comfortable with it. Answer these questions with attentiveness & positivity.

10. Be affectionate

Avoid calling your child ‘shy’ every time. You don’t need to put your child into a category. Be affectionate, sympathetic and loving to your kid. Snuggle and hug your little one every chance you get!

It is essential to know if your child is introverted by nature or has become reserved because of a specific event. If your child is going through something or if the shyness is severe, it is best to take her to a mental health professional who specializes in child care. Either way, keep loving your children just the way they are!

Image credits: LuidMilaKot , Ben_Kerckx , Unsplash

10 Easy Exercises For Your Child

October 14, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

Any form of physical activity or exercise is a must for every individual. Children are active little creatures and running all around the place comes naturally to them. Being agile right from an early age has health benefits which will be useful even when your child grows up.

Unfortunately, childhood obesity is the number 1 health concern in the United States according to heart.org. Childhood obesity, in turn, leads to other health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure. An overweight child can also suffer from low self-esteem and sadness, which is extremely worrying.

This can be prevented by maintaining a healthy balance of a good diet and sufficient physical activity for your child. ShapeAmerica.org has great guidelines for the exercise duration and requirements of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Remember, exercise doesn’t have to be boring!

Here are 10 fun and easy exercise ideas that your child can do easily : …

10 Strategies To Teach Your Toddler To Listen Better

October 12, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

A toddler begins to exhibit non-compliance at the age of two! Common behaviors during this stage are frequent use of the word “no,” difficulty sharing, claiming possessions as “mine”, picky eating, and throwing tantrums when they do not get their way. Below are a few strategies for minimizing non-compliance and increasing listening.

Top 10 Strategies To Teach Your Toddler To Listen Better Are:

1. Be genuine and sincere

Use phrases such as “I need you to” instead of “You need to” when you need your child to do something.

2. Use directives and questions rarely

Avoid firing questions or instructions to your child that they fail to respond to.

3. Be a good listener

Be a role model for good listening by showing that you are listening to your child by imitating and reflecting back what your child says.

4. Provide information

Give information in a non-demanding manner like “It is time to get changed” or “I’d like you to get changed,”, hoping that your child will consider the information and change their behavior.

5. Give choices with acceptable parameters

State all requests or directions as choices when you can. Instead of saying, “You need to get dressed now.” Try, “Do you want to put on your shirt or pants first?”

6. Reinforce your message

Along with verbal messages, give visual cues, physical cues, and demonstrations. Say, “Time for bed!” by flicking the light switch, laying a hand on baby’s shoulder and steering her toward her bed and pulling down the covers and patting the pillow.

7. Get down to the child’s level

Eye contact is important. Squat down or pick up your child, so you can look him in the eye and get his attention.

8. Practice friendly and a positive tone

Make use of positive terms that tell your child what to do (e.g., “Walk!”) instead of what not to do (e.g., “No running!”).

9. Give warnings

Practice giving advance notices before a big change will take place, especially if your toddler happily involved with toys or a friend.

10. Use appropriate language

Make use of positive terms that tell your child what to do (e.g., “Walk!”) instead of what not to do (e.g., “No running!”).

Image Credits: PublicDomainPictures, Kasman, ImagesBG

Checklist: Packing Your Baby’s Diaper Bag!

October 10, 2016 kidloLand Comments 0 Comment

A well-organized diaper-bag can save your day! But what items do you really need to stock in your bag? It mainly depends on how old your child is and for how long you’ll be out.
Explore the following checklist to stock items in the diaper-bag of your toddlers :

1. Diapers and wipes

Ensure that you carry diapers and wipes as you’ll need one diaper per hour and a few extra sometimes. Take a minimum of 10 wipes for diaper changes, sticky hands and dirty surfaces.

2. Disposable bags

Carry disposable bags for storing soiled diapers. Make sure that your child can’t get to them since plastic bags (including the biodegradable versions) pose a suffocation risk!

3. Thermometer

Carry a thermometer with you as it is a compact and discreet method of checking for fever.

4. Hand sanitizer and towel

Carry a hand sanitizer for cleaning your hands after changing diapers especially when there’s no time or place to wash them. Pack a towel to wipe your hands as well.

5. Bottles and sippy cup

Keep sippy cups and bottles handy to feed milk and water to your little one.

6. Extra outfit (including socks)

Take extra outfits as you never know when spit-up, drool, spills or poop explosions will necessitate a change of clothing.

7. Pacifier and bibs

Carry bibs and pacifiers as baby bibs are the best way to keep your baby’s clothes spit-up free. Pacifiers offer a temporary distraction and enable your baby to fall asleep easily.

8. Snacks

Fill the diaper bag with a jar of baby-food and spoon or finger foods depending on your baby’s age.

9. Favorite blanket

Carry a blanket to cover your baby or as a changing pad, nursing cover, bib, shade, or burp cloth.

10. Books or toys

Carry toys according to the outing and your baby’s age.

11. Sunscreen or a hat

Take sunscreen or a hat to protect your child from the sun.

12. Emergency contact numbers

Save the phone numbers of your family’s doctors in your cell phone and keep your health insurance cards in your wallet.

Image Credits: PublicDomainPictures, annca, Gadini, TaniaVdB, Counselling

7 Tips To Become An Ideal Parent

September 20, 2016 kidloLand

Parenting is both an art and a science. An ideal parent is the one who displays unconditional acceptance of what the child is. A parent’s relationship with his/her child has great
influence on child’s actions including child behavior problems. If your relationship with your child is not good, they’re not going to listen to you. See yourself how you relate to
other people. If you have a good relationship with them, you tend to trust them more, listen to their opinions, and agree with them. If you don’t like someone you just don’t
like, you will ignore their opinion.

7 Tips to become an ideal parent are:

1. Avoid harsh behavior

Don’t yell, be loud or vent your frustration on your kid. Convey your message in a soothing tone. Always remember to make a proper choice of words. Talk to them about their
mistakes and teach them not to repeat the mistakes again. There are many other ways to discipline a child, including ‘time out,’ which works better and does not involve
aggression.

2. Motivate and appreciate

If your child is less motivated, it can be a source of great worry, frustration, sometimes even despair and that’s where the trouble can begin. Convincing your children to do
things they don’t want to do can be too challenging. Also making them stop doing the things you don’t want them to do can be even trickier still. If your child experiences
failure, motivate him to try hard and leave a trail of positivity! Also appreciate your child for good work, which boosts confidence!

3. Parents should adapt and adjust with time

Keep a proper track of your child’s development. Your child is growing up. Consider how age is affecting the child’s behavior. Encourage question answer sessions and appreciate
their curiosity. Answer every question they ask you and are curious to know. A child’s curiosity knows no bounds! Get on track with them so that they travel ahead smoothly!
After all you play a vital role in the smooth life cycle of your kid.

4. Cultivate your child’s independence

Children may undergo some restrictions imposed by their parents which means that even if the child wants to do something, he cannot do because of the restrictions. This
creates a sense of self-control. When a parent encourages independence, it helps the child to develop a sense of self direction in which the child is free to explore and perform
things! Independence is a gift that a parent can give to their children. Cultivate independence by showing confidence in your children’s capabilities, teaching them that they
have control over their lives and giving them the freedom to make their own decisions.

5. Be steadfast with your child

There is nothing more powerful than believing in someone unconditionally. We often see parents nagging at their children and pushing them to be the perfect child. No doubt
they love their children, but this very act of trying to change someone gives out a strong signal of disbelief. Be steadfast when your child is being stubborn or just plain bossy.

6. Parents must respect their child

The best way to get respectful treatment from your child is to treat him respectfully. You should give your child the same courtesies you would give to anyone else. Speak to
your child politely. Respect his opinion. Pay attention when he is speaking to you. Treat him kindly. Try to please him when you can. Children treat others the way their parents
treat them. Your relationship with your child acts as the foundation for his relationships with others.

7. Show unconditional love

Unconditional love is love without requiring anything in return. Some powerful ways to show unconditional love to your children are by learning their language, serving them
unconditionally, learning to listen to them, being spontaneous etc.

Image credits: Public Domain Pictures VaniaRaposo mh-grafik Unsplash

Screen Time For Kids – 7 Ways To Mix Fun & Learning

September 16, 2016 kidloLand

‘Screen time for kids’ has been a topic of numerous discussions. Some people believe that little kids should be kept away from technology at all costs. On the other hand, an extensive survey, based on American children says that a large number of kids now have access to technology. Kids are known to grab an electronic device for leisure and it’s a win-win situation for parents if it also contains an educational value. Children are curious little creatures and it is vital to keep a check on what kind of content your child is looking at on the device screen.

Here are the best ways you can ensure your child’s screen time is his/her learning time as well:

1. Get some storytelling apps.

Stories fuel a child’s imagination and creativity. An educational app like Kidloland, that tells stories with cute animations is a great way to get the child thinking and develop a reading habit. You can also pause the stories to interact with your child and ask questions about what they learned from it. Consider downloading e-books for kids as well.

2. Choose colorful content.

It’s no surprise that colors, shapes and funny characters are very intriguing to a child. Download apps which provide such creative and eye-catching content where your kid can learn to identify and distinguish between different objects and classify them.

3. Make sure the app is interactive.

Visual content which is interactive is a great tool to keep your child on his/her toes! Ask them questions like ‘Can you tell me what he’s doing?’ or ‘What do you think will happen next?’ and watch as they reply with utmost excitement. This will help your child’s thinking, vocabulary and give a kick-start to his/her analytical skills at an early age.

4. Download gaming apps.

Find apps which will rack your child’s brain such as jigsaw puzzles, object sorting etc. Such fun gaming apps will make sure your child hones his/her intellectual abilities right from the beginning. Check if the games are safe and provide good graphics for the overall development of your child.

5. Enhance your child’s memory.

Memory games have been a staple in every kid’s learning process and technology just makes it even more fun for them. Find memory games which help your child visualize and remember animals, fruits, objects, names etc. easily. Don’t forget to engage and participate in a quiz session after the game ends.

6. Learn to draw.

Art is an important part of a child’s education. Encourage your children to express their ideas, thoughts, and feelings through apps which support drawings, no matter how imperfect their artworks are. Appreciate their effort and motivate them to think of more ideas.

7. Ensure that the screen time is fruitful.

Go through the app beforehand and check if it is actually beneficial and provides good quality information to your child. It is necessary to find excellent content online that is useful, gives good results and makes your kid’s early learning experience even better.

Screen time is crucial for children as it exposes them to a whole new world of creativity and imagination. On average, 15 to 20 minutes a day is a good duration for your child to play and learn on his/her favorite electronic device.

Image credits – lcr3cr, NadineDoerle