Parenting with RIE® gives me much to be thankful for

Parenting with RIE® gives me much to be thankful for

I don’t panic anymore because I know that when children are testing limits they aren’t out to get me.  They aren’t searching for my weaknesses, they’re searching for their boundaries.  I can be calm because I don’t feel I have to fix every emotional outburst or stop every cry. I can accept their emotions and support them in whatever way I can.  I am at peace because I know I will make mistakes and that my children will be okay — not only that but it gives me a chance to model for them how to apologize or make amends.  I have time to take care of things in my life, because my children can play on their own and be quite happy.
 

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Come see the newly remodled Center and enjoy a free parent/infant class

Come see the newly remodled Center and enjoy a free parent/infant class

We finally finished the remodel at the Tot Center at Kirk o' the Valley; new floors, painted walls, everything is clean and fresh.  So we will be starting up with our parent/infant classes again.  There is still room in both the toddler and the infant class.  If you or someone you know is interested in joining a parent/infant class please come check us out this Saturday, July 15th, 2015.  All classes are FREE this Saturday.

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How to help your child get ready for their first day of school.

How to help your child get ready for their first day of school.

In a few weeks I will be sending my third child to kindergarten. I have what I expect is a pretty common reaction. "How can this be happening so soon?"  This first day of school is full of both anxiety and excitement, -- both for me and my child. Having been through this twice before, and with many of the lessons I've learned by studying RIE for all these years in mind, here is my plan and my advice, if you’re child is starting Kindergarten or pre-school this year.

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What to do about a Jack in the Box at bed time?

What to do about a Jack in the Box at bed time?

I had a little Jack in the Box.  A child who gets out of bed every two minutes.  This is challenging and helping children find their way to good sleep habits can be frustrating, but hopefully these  pointers can help. You may very well find that an extra 30 minutes of calm conviction, on occasion, may help build a foundation of healthy sleep habits that could last a lifetime.

 

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Why I Let My Toddler Struggle

Why I Let My Toddler Struggle


If I am always rushing to solve my toddler’s problems, then when do I decide to stop solving problems for her?  When do I change the rules and tell her it’s time to start developing her own problem solving skills?  I’d rather her start develop her problem-solving skills right away -- and for her to gain the self-confidence that results from overcoming her challenges.  If I knew I could fix my children’s problems their whole lives long, I probably would.  But since I can’t, I let my toddler struggle.  I’m there for her, not to solve her problems, but to watch and support her failures, and her triumphs.  

 

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How to Change a Diaper and Why it Matters How We Do It.

How to Change a Diaper and Why it Matters How We Do It.

I have probably changed more than 20,000 diapers in the last ten years.  I’m not claiming that’s any record, but I think it’s enough to say I am, at the least, experienced.  I have some thoughts about diapering that might help to change it from an unpleasant task to -- believe it or not -- a very lovely time spent with your child.

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