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Winter's Affect on Toddlers
Date :
Wednesday, November 26 2008
Source:
DWS
Along with the chilly weather, winter brings unique challenges and stressors for young children. Days do not unfold naturally, and it is impossible to hit the pause button. Just as negative situations may generate stress, excitement, anticipation and changes in routines may also result in stress for young children. Because routines are so important to toddlers, do your best to stick with regular and predictable routines whenever possible, especially mealtimes and nap/bed times. Keep in mind that a toddler who is having a tantrum is usually a toddler who is very tired or over-stimulated from too much activity. Visits from friends and relatives and extra activities may be fun and exciting, but try to remain realistic and consider the following tips to restore calm!
- If your toddler has a special plate or cup, take it with you on trips to friends and relatives or to restaurants.
- If your toddler is used to sleeping with a night light, make sure you take it with you on overnight trips.
- While visiting friends and relatives, it may be easier to get your toddler to nap if you can find a quiet spot and rest with him for a few minutes.
- Depending on your toddler, it may be frightening to be surrounded by people that are well intentioned but unfamiliar. Help prepare your toddler for these situations by looking at pictures repeatedly and well in advance of the visit. (See this month’s My Picture Book activity.)
- When traveling, pack your toddler’s clothing for each day in separate plastic zipper bags. Dirty clothes are separated from clean ones, and washing clothes is a snap when you get home.
- Create a “waiting bag” for your toddler; include easily accessible snacks (especially animal snacks such as teddy grahams, animal crackers and goldfish), wipes, paper, crayons and some picture books. Also include a high protein snack like nuts or a granola bar for you.
- Take time during this busy season to find a sunny spot indoors and enjoy a picture book with your toddler.
Very Interesting - Date 12/9/2008
I have an almost 2 year old and he has been a little crabby lately. I just thought it was because he is entering terrible twos or something. This article is an eye-opener because it makes you realize there is more at stake when you go hang out with family and drink egg-nog. It means that overloading your child with extra stuff can cause undo stress. Thanks for the tip!