Crib to Bed Transition: Making it Safe & Smooth
As a Mother, I am quite aware of all the stressful milestones that take place during the toddler and pre-school years. One of these stressful times happens to be transitioning from a crib to a big boy or girl bed. There are several tips and tricks that you can use to make this transition go smoothly and safely for both you and your child.
It can sometimes be difficult to determine when your child is ready to leave the crib. With this decision it is important that you follow the child’s lead. A sure sign is if your child can actually climb out of their crib. This can pose the risk for injury to your child. At young ages, children often do not have the coordination and stability to climb safely, not to mention the risk of falling several feet to the floor.
Children usually transition from their crib to a bed between the ages of 18 months and 36 months according to experts. If they are not climbing out of the crib yet, there is no need to rush it. Dr. Laura Jana, a general pediatrician in Denver, Colorado, and one of Dr. Spock’s experts says “there is no definitive answer to the question of when a child should be switched from a crib to a bed. Each family’s situation is different, and in many ways this issue really boils down to a matter of opinion.” One thing to consider is that the longer a child stays in a crib, the more attached they may become to it and transitioning to a bed may be more difficult.
There are a variety of things that you can try to make it easier on everyone involved. Once you’ve determined that it is time to abandon the crib, set a time-frame for the transition period. The reason for doing this is that it is often easier for the child if they see a bed set up in their room for a couple days while they continue to go to sleep in their own crib. This allows them to mentally adjust to it.
The type of bed that you transition them into is strictly a personal preference. Many choose to place a mattress on the floor initially so that there aren’t any accidental falls from the bed that are from too high up. There are thousands of different styles of beds available today from toddler beds to twin beds and larger. You can find themed beds, beds shaped like cars, canopy beds, etc…The list is endless. Keep in mind that the fancier the bed, the more costly it will probably be, also considering how many years they will be in this particular bed.
Allow them to help create their own space. Take them shopping for the bedding and accessories. Let them choose one special item that they can sleep with each night such as a new teddy bear or other soft cuddly item. Toddler size pillows are usually a better and safer choice than standard size pillows as they are more proportionate to the child’s smaller body. These ideas will comfort them while they try to adjust to their new sleeping arrangement.
Again, safety is always a priority. Be sure to have a means for keeping your child from falling out of the bed such as a bed rail. If the child’s bedside is up against a wall, another great safety item is the Bed Bumper for Big Kids. This will help to prevent nighttime bumps and boo-boos while your child tosses and turns in their sleep, creating a barrier between your child and their wall.
Gradually begin to let them nap in the new bed during the day if they are still taking naps. This is also a great way to actually be awake while they “react” to their new sleeping quarters. After several successful naps, begin getting excited with them about how big they are now. Let them help you disassemble the crib and remove it from the bedroom. Make the whole experience exciting and happy.
To prevent wandering around the house, a gate can be used to segregate them from the rest of the house, either by putting it in their doorway or by putting it in a hallway so that they can only access your room or their own room. Be sure that all precautions are taken with regards to child proofing your home.
It is very important that you are patient and give it time. If you are relaxed and loving during the whole process, your child will do fine and you will all sleep very well.
To sum it all up:
• The bedroom and home should be completely child proofed.
• Make their sleep area fun and interesting, allowing them to choose some décor.
• Make sure there are comforting items in the room; nightlights, stuffed animals.
• Reasonable transition period with new bed in room while child is still in crib.
• Start by having them sleep in the new bed during nap times.
• Be sure to segregate them from other areas of home by use of gate.
• Give it time.
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Rae Lynn Glispin is owner of Kidz Comfort, offering great sleep solutions for children and encouraging a calm and soothing bedtime routine. First to create the Bed Bumper for Big Kids, she expanded her product line to include comforting and stylish items for every child. Visit http://www.kidzcomfort.com for more information. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rae_Glispin |
Why Children Lie and What You can do About it
One time or another, all children lie. It’s just a fact.
What made me research this topic is that my 5-year old son began kicking it up a notch with the lies. I can easily understand why he is lying about certain things, but what was more curious to me is how did he actually learn to lie.
Is it a trait that humans are born with? Or, is it something they actually get exposed to and learn to do from others.
Susan Epstein, Parent Coach at ParentingPowers.com says “Children lie for a number of reasons.”
Susan adds “The most common reason is for fear of getting in trouble and disappointing parents or feeling shame. They took something they shouldn’t have. The parent finds out and gets angry. Best response: ” What you did is wrong..but we all make mistakes. Please don’t do this again.” In other words…if you don’t shame your child but correct the behavior instead it isn’t scary or humiliating when they do make a mistake and lie about it. Children also lie because they want something very badly. For instance, “I went to Disney Land” from a 5 year old…could mean “I wish very much I could go to Disney Land.” The best response a parent could say would be: “I know you wish you had gone”…in other words teach the child the difference between wish and truth.”
Children are not Naturally Deceitful
As stated above by Parent Coach, Susan Epstein, “The most common reason is fear of getting in trouble and disappointing parents or feeling shame.” Creating excessive fear in a child may actually reinforce their desire to lie rather than solve the problem. To avoid this issue, create an environment where your child feels comfortable telling the truth. Make sure your expectations are not unrealistically high for their age.
Dr. Benjamin Spock says that “When a child lies regularly, it may mean that she is under too much pressure of some kind.” As a parent, your job is to work with others that are close to your child such as their teacher, to find out what is wrong. Begin by saying something like “You don’t have to lie to me. Tell me what the trouble is and we’ll see what we can do.” Your child may not even know the answer to this question right away, but be patient and it will pay off in the end.
Is Lying Related to the Intelligence of Your Child?
More recent studies show that lying is related to intelligence. Lying demands both cognitive development and social skills that honesty simply doesn’t require. If your child is already starting to tell little white lies at a very early age, such as by the time they are 2 or 3, it could actually mean that your child is very intelligent.
By the age of 4 most children will have lied to avoid punishment of some kind. Many books and other resources will even advise that you should just let the lies go at this age because they will grow out of it. The opposite is actually true…the truth is they’ll grow into it if allowed. Make sure you are explaining why it is important to tell the truth and not lie.
As they age, not only will they lie to avoid punishment, but also to increase their “power”, their sense of control, and as a way of getting more attention. Many older children will actually make up stories about who they’ve met or things they’ve done, just so others will be impressed by them.
When Should You be Concerned About Your Child Lying
If your child has a sudden dramatic increase in lying, it can be a danger sign of other more serious concerns. Excessive lying is often a symptom of other underlying issues.
Children who don’t feel good about themselves often lie much more. We should be trying to determine what the issue may be without expressing anger at the dishonesty. It is important to make sure our children don’t have low self-esteem. Low self-esteem can be the root of many other future concerns.
Another reason that children begin to increase their dishonesty is because their parents may be too intrusive. As children get older, their desire for privacy also increases. They maintain privacy, individuality and control by controlling the amount of information that they share with their parents. Too much “where were you”, “what did you do”, “who were you with” will eventually lead to dishonesty.
Children often react by lying when they know or sense that there is an issue in the family. If parents are fighting, divorcing or if there are other issues within their family, this may be the way they vie for attention and work at getting the fighting parties to work together again.
Acting out can be a cry for help.
Conclusion
Children may lie at all different ages and for all different reasons. Do your research and pay attention so that their lying is not a red flag for more concern. Get involved, but do not smother them. You may even make your family bond stronger.
How do You Teach Disability Awareness to Your Children?
March is actually DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH, and I have come to learn about an organization that truly should be in the spotlight…
The CVS Caremark Charitable Trust and CVS Caremark’s “All Kids Can”
They have created this organization to support children with disabilities by raising awareness in our own communities, including our schools, about the importance of inclusion. They partner with other organizations to help children with disabilities learn, play and succeed.
I am very proud of the fact that my own community supports these types of organizations and has programs set up to raise awareness. My 4-year old’s preschool has a Muscular Dystrophy Hop-athon where they teach the kids about disabilities and ways to help out. My 5-year old’s kindergarten class also has a program in their school where they teach the children about autism so that they understand it better and can make choices to help these kids feel included.
In our own home, we talk about how everyone is different in some way and that is what makes life so fun and interesting. We all have different hair, skin, bodies, personalities…and if not for that, it would be way too boring. My children are also fortunate enough to be exposed to people in power chairs, which initially can be a bit intimidating for a small child, but they no longer think it is any “different” and understand that some people’s legs just don’t work the same as ours.
Learn more about the CVS Caremark organizations by visiting http://www.cvscaremarkallkidscan.com/.
Please share your story of how you teach disability awareness in your own homes. This is an important topic and should be discussed. Have you had an uncomfortable moment with your child when they first came upon some one with a disability?
Final Giveaway #11
Our final giveaway is a doozy! I almost hate to give this away. But, as promised…..
Our final winner will be receiving a Box-Set of 5 CD’s titled “Tired of Nagging? Get Your Kids to Cooperate.“ Compliments of Susan P. Epstein, LCSW, Parent Life Coach. Check out her other products at parentingpowers.com. This is more than a $400 Value!
I am glad I am not the only one who has questions and concerns about my children’s behavior. The winner of this final giveaway, as determined by Random.org, is Reiza!
Congratulations Reiza!
Please come back and visit soon for more interesting posts and comments from lots of interesting people.
2009 New Year Giveaway #11
We’re up to our 11th and FINAL giveaway!
But first…
Congratulations to the winner of our most recent After Holiday Giveaway!
Thank you for all the great replies to our last contest question about your special Valentine celebrations. Our 10th Giveaway Winner is Jean D. who will be receiving A $15 Gift Certificate to Chicks & Cubs, compliments of Cynthia from www.chicksandcubs.com. 
Ok, now to the next and FINAL giveaway…This Box-Set of 5 CD’s titled “Tired of Nagging? Get Your Kids to Cooperate.“ Compliments of Susan P. Epstein, LCSW, Parent Life Coach. Check out her other products at parentingpowers.com. This is more than a $400 Value! You cannot miss out on this one!
My thought of the day: As you may or may not know from previous posts, I have two boys…a 4-year old and a 5-year old. They are polar opposites in most ways. One is high-maintenance, one is laid back. One is artistic, one is more about wrestling and rough-housing. One loves competitive sports, the other hates playing against people because he will risk losing. We’ve had a lot of challenges over the past 5+ years, and I know we have many many more to come. There are a couple phases that have been extremely difficult for us, causing us to actually research the answers to our questions. One was that our first born had tons of sleep issues…always crying, never falling asleep unless he was being held and rocked (although, in hindsight, I’m certain we created this issue). The second biggest issue we’ve had so far is the tantrums. If there is a Guinness Book record for longest and loudest temper tantrum, I am certain that my 5-year old would have won!
This leads to my next question…
Whether you have kids or not, I would love to hear what your issues or questions have been? If you have kids, what were your biggest challenges? If you don’t have kids, but spend time with some one else’s kids, you must have things you’d like to vent about. Just post it here.
If you have a Twitter account, and you want additional entries, just re-tweet and comment here about it.
The deadline for giveaway #11 entry is 11:59pm EST, Thursday February 12th, 2009. To review the rules of our giveaway, please CLICK HERE.
How to Choose Books For Children
By Heidi Rosenberg
When purchasing books for the lovely children in our lives the highest priority should be to seek out books with meaningful content. Try to avoid poor quality and commercialism.
Go back in time when my generation (children of the 70’s) and older were growing up. Almost all the books were good quality books, with great content. I am sure you still remember some to this day. In the 80’s two things happened, big publishing houses and mass retailers! Because of this profit margins became the driving force for the production of books. All of a sudden books became based on TV cartoons, video games and general commercialism.
So getting back to the question, how do you choose good quality books for children when there are so many books out there?
1. Seek out books that you remember from your childhood. (House that Jack built, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Hen, Three Billy Goats Gruff and many more)
2. Look for new books that will build on important values for your family. There are lots of new great books out there.
3. Avoid books that will take the child back to the television or computer.
4. Give your child good quality books.
5. Read to your child and enjoy good quality time together. Books with music CDs are a great way to enjoy a story (you should see our house when my 3 year old has her playgroup, its so much fun)
Barefoot Books, a small independent company that started in 1993 by two working mothers, Nancy Traversy and Tessa Strickland has the vision and goals to publish and share books, gifts and arts that promote children’s love for learning, independence of the spirit, multiculturalism and protection of the environment. Barefoot Books products include award-winning books, music cds and colorful artworks that appeal to children and all children at heart.
About the Author
Written by Heidi Rosenberg I became an independent stallholder for Barefoot Books in September 2008. I have two young children and we love reading together. Being an independent stallholder has given me the opportunity to stay home with my children but still earn a little bit of spending money. We love the books; they have such great artwork and fantastic stories and many of the books have facts for the reader in the back.
My Website
Barefoot Childrens books Winter sale ends Feb 2nd
‘What are you thankful for?’ CONTEST WINNER
Our Thanksgiving Contest has come to an end! It was a very nice and easy first contest for me to run. We used Random.org to pick the winner.
Cynthia Powell is the winner of our very first contest giveaway. Cynthia owns Chicks & Cubs, a great place to find unique baby keepsakes including baby shoe bronzing, as well as an enormous amount of child safety products.
It is so nice to meet other Moms and learn about them and their families. I highly recommend visiting Cynthia’s site and be sure to visit her Loot4Mama Giveaway.
Cynthia will be able to shop at Kidz Comfort and pick out her free toddler size travel pillow.
Please be sure to visit us often. We will be launching a much larger giveaway in the next few days. We were fortunate enough to receive quite a few great gift items to giveaway! STAY TUNED.
Take Back Your Parenting Power Today!
Is this your family?
We have a great interview for you today! We were fortunate enough to interview Parent Coach, Susan Epstein. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Parent Coach and has so much to offer parents.
Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself, both personally and professionally.
A: I graduated from Clark University in Worcester, MA in 1980, where I earned a B.A. degree in Sociology and Spanish with a minor in Psychology. I worked for the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children until moving to California in 1984, where I pursued my M.S.W. from the University of California at Berkeley School of Social Welfare. I am a certified Brief Strategic Family Therapist and trained with the Family Therapy Institute, at the University of Miami. I completed training in 2003 with the internationally accredited Coaches Training Institute. Bilingual in English/Spanish, has enabled me to work with different cultures throughout my career.
Q: How did you become interested in this profession?
A: I had worked as a clinical social worker since 1980. It bothered me that our training was focused on client’s pathologies rather than on their strengths. I felt that there had to be a better more positive way to help families help themselves without splitting everyone up and seeing them in therapy. In 2002, I hired my own life coach to see what that would be like. The experience was eye opening and life changing. Coaching seemed like a great fit. I was able to take what I knew and had studied and transfer it into a career that helps parents move forward and immediately feel successful.
Q: Is there some one that inspired you to do what you do?
A: My inspiration comes from many people who I have worked with over the years. Some were teachers, mentors and even clients. From the age of 16, when I read my first “self help books” Born to Win and I’m Okay You’re Okay. I knew that psychology was my field.
Q: When and why did you start your Parenting Powers Blog?
A: I started Parenting Powers in March 2007. I had been parent coaching and had a local private practice. I wanted to reach a wider audience and help parents through my writing, speaking and teaching.
Q: What is it that you have to share with other Parents?
A: You are trying too hard. Parents use way too much energy, too many words, too many mixed messages. Simplify, simplify, simplify!
Q: Can you give us an idea of the types of topics that you cover in your blog?
A: Respect, How to Parent Calmly, How to Motivate kids to cooperate, Homework issues, Divorce, Death and other losses and much more.
Q: How can interested people learn more about you and your work?
A: Go to http://parentingpowers.com/ and sign up for my free special report, How to Take Back Your Parenting Power.
You can also take a look at my books, dvds and audio cds by clicking HERE.
Tees to Please!
Visit Main Squeeze Tees Today!
I have come across a fantastic site! Here is an excerpt from their About Us page:
Every couple goes through the process of getting familiar with each other. At some point you get to a place where you know what your partner will say before they say it. Or you think something at the very moment your partner speaks it.
MainSqueezeTees is about those responses, actions, playful antics, that you come to know and appreciate or maybe tolerate about your partner. Read More…
Really, if you have a great sense of humor and you are in one of those relationships, you have got to visit this site! MainSqueezeTees.com
Enjoy!
raelynn @ Kidz Comfort
Kid Friendly Recipes Needed!
Hello everyone! Like many of you, I have a couple very picky eaters at home. One is 4 and one is 5. I have some suggestions on how to make things a bit more interesting for the kids and easier for the Mommy and Daddy. You can read my full article at EZineArticles.com.
In addition to this, I am in the process of creating an E-Book on the topic, including lots of fun recipes. I would love some additions to my E-Book from all of you out there! If you have a great recipe that you want to share with the world, please let me know and I will add it to my E-Book along with a little info about you, your family and/or your business. You can’t beat a FREE Plug for you or your business! Also, if you have a very funny family story to share, send that along as well. We’d love to include some humor.
Just send your recipe, story and the info you would like to be included to raelynn@kidzcomfort.com and I’ll let you know if we will be including it.
Thanks and Sleep Well!
raelynn @ Kidz Comfort
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