mommywood.com
 
from the cradle to college

Tip of the Week Archive

 Allergy Tips                                                                           
If your child has dust mite allergies but can't bear to part with their
favorite stuffed animal, you can either run it through the dryer for
30 minutes or put it in a plastic bag and stick it in the freezer
overnight.   This will kill any dust mites on the toy.

Beauty Tips                                                                            

Make a splash this summer donning a new 'do! Consider going short or
adding some highlights
to look extra stylish while having fun in the sun.

 Consumer Tips                                                                       

This holiday season stock up on simple craft supplies that your
kids can manage alone.  Keep them in a separate place and pull
them out when you're ready to wrap gifts or address cards.  This
will keep your kids entertained and they will have a project to
give as a gift.

 Family Time Tips                                                                    

Play BINGO!  Not only is playing a game a great way to spend time
together,  but it also helps your child learn their numbers - particularly
double digits.  You can have small prizes for the winner to encourage
them to finish the game.


Holiday Tips                                                                          
Start a tradition in your home by giving the same item every year
such as robe or slippers.

If you missed sending out a holiday card, it's not too late!  Take a
family photo and send it out the first week of February updating your
family news and wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day.    

Organization Tips                                                                   
Now that your child has a new set of favorite toys it's s a great time
to have them choose a few old ones to give away to charity.  Make
sure they are in good condition.                   

It's time for Spring Cleaning!  Have your  kids gather toys and clothes
they don't need anymore and hold a yard sale. Let them price items
and make change - they'll get a little business lesson and you'll get a
cleaner home.

Now that the school year is coming to an end, it's a perfect time to gather up all of
your child's favorite art work and star papers and start on a scrapbook.  It's a
fun summer project for them to help you with, creating a great time for bonding
and building self esteem as they see how much they progressed
throughout the year!


Clear out some useful closet space by going through your child's
games and puzzles and weeding out the ones with missing pieces
or that your little one has outgrown.

Party Tips                                                                            
Gather your guests for a group picture at cake time.  When
it's time to send out Thank Yous, print postcards with the
picture and write your note on the back.  This is a great way
to save on postage and also leaves your guests with a memento
of the party! 

This Thanksgiving have everyone write one thing they are
thankful for and put the paper under their plates. During
dinner, take turns going around the table and sharing.  Younger
children might need help writing and reading their choice, but be
sure to include them anyway.


 Safety Tips                                                                       

Be sure to always have your keys in your hand when you
head to your car.  Don't dilly dally in parking lots, get in,

strap your kids in and leave. - Monica Persons  video


At the beach, be sure to keep your eyes on your little ones
as they dig in the sand.  Children can easily become buried
under a pile of sand.  video
                     -  Derek Doler, Ventura County Lifeguard

Program the phone number for Poison Control into your
cellphone in case your child accidentally ingests a toxic
product. Make sure any caregivers do the same.

 Time Management Tips                                                       

If you're feeling like you need a little time to yourself, consider
getting up 45 minutes before the kids do, so you can enjoy a
little "me" time.


 Toddler / Preschooler Tips                                                         

To help your child keep their room clean, organize it in a kid-

friendly way and then make a photo chart for them to follow
at clean up time.  This will give them a real sense of
accomplishment and before you know it, they won't even
need the chart to remember where things go.  Make sure to
praise their work - even if it's not perfect!
                                             

Once your toddler starts potty training, start carrying a potty
in your car.  It will help avoid accidents and make your life
much easier when you don't have to run around looking for
a bathroom.  Don't forget the toilet paper, which you can
keep in a plastic freezer bag.

To make potty training more fun, pour a few drops
of food coloring or children's paint into the toilet
and see what color it turns into when your toddler
"goes!"          
             - from a very creative preschool teacher