Parenting Tips

Parenting Tips

Outdoor Family Fun

During any season of the year there are many activities that families can enjoy together in “the great outdoors”. Outdoor time is very healthy for families – not only is everyone out in the sunshine and the fresh air, but it is a time to be together with out the common distractions of television, telephone, computer etc. This can be a time when the family members focus on doing something together. Often, parents ask “What can we plan to do with our 2 year old at the park or in the yard?” There are many activities that you can plan such as a simple picnic, visiting an event at a park (the Arts Festival for example where they have many activities for children), a pumpkin patch with fall activities, etc. However, by far the most valuable time outdoors with your family is the time you spend in unstructured relaxed activities.

Parenting Tips

Blocks: Versatile Learning

Young children naturally gravitate toward blocks at playtime, as blocks offer endless opportunities for creative exploration without predetermined rules. With blocks, children can pound, build, balance, count, design, and more. Through play, they develop language, math concepts, and problem-solving skills, while also learning cooperation over competition. Blocks provide valuable lessons in cause and effect, such as how structures can crash but still be fun. Whether engaging in cooperative building or individual exploration, blocks stimulate both creative and cognitive development, making them an ideal educational toy for children of all ages.

Parenting Tips

Summer Sun Safety and Fun

During summer, families should be aware of sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. To prevent sunburn, keep children indoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., or apply sunscreen (SPF 15+ for children over 6 months). Treat sunburn by applying a cool, wet cloth and keeping them in the shade. Heat exhaustion can be prevented by ensuring children stay hydrated and cool; if symptoms like muscle cramps or dizziness occur, give them fluids and let them rest in a cool place. Heat stroke, characterized by drowsiness, dry skin, or unconsciousness, is a medical emergency—call an ambulance and try to lower their body temperature with cool water, a fan, or ice packs.

Parenting Tips

Applying Screen

Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to any exposed skin, especially nose and neck and tops of ears if no hair covers them. If your child is at school (childcare) during the day, apply a long duration sunscreen at home in the morning before going to school. Notify the teachers that sunscreen has already been applied that day. Use a SPF of 15 or higher.
* Remember: Never apply sunscreen to children under the age of 6 months or expose them to direct sunlight.*
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