QI have a 3-year old daughter who started talking early. She has always been easy to understand, and talks all the time. My son is 20 months old now and has started to say -some- words. He says "Mom," "Dad," etc., but does not speak at nearly the same level she did. Should I be concerned about his speech development?

First of all you can't compare the kids - it's not fair to them. If you are concerned about your son's speech - discuss it with your doctor at your next appointment or if that is to far off - call - it doesn't hurt to ask. Good luck!

It's hard to do when you have more than one child, but you have to work at not comparing them. It's not good for them and it will drive you batty. No two children are alike, and they all have their own ways of learning. Check with Moms that are the same age as your son. Is he doing the same things that they are? If you are still concerned, check with your doctor.

I love to display all of Little P's artwork. He works so hard on it and I'm always so proud of him! The problem was that in no time at all my refrigerator surface became covered! Art was being put on top of other art, some was sliding off the fridge ... it was not a pretty sight. So we created a "wall of wonder" in our playroom.

With Little P's help, we went through all the existing artwork on the fridge and using tacky putty, moved the artwork to the new Wall of Wonder location. When he brings new artwork home we put it right up! The location is great because it greets us on the way into our home and makes a nice time line to show his artistic progress.

We've found a lot of Little P's undesirable behavior has come from imitating other children. Either he's seen the behavior at playgroup, school, or out in the world. Other kids are doing it -- so shouldn't I? He tried biting during active play a few times and we told him not to, explaining it hurt. To prove our point, we had him bite himself. He didn't bite anymore after that.

My oldest bit me once and that was it - he was about 1.5 - 2 yrs old and I picked him up and he laid his head on my shoulder then for some unknown reason bit the back of my shoulder. YEOWZA - I calmly put him down and took his arm and bit - (gently - leaving no marks) but for emphasis and told him no biting. That was the last time he bit.

I am always looking for ways to encourage Little P to draw and express himself creatively. Like most children, his drawings have evolved from scribbles to forms that I can easily identify. It is so exciting to see these changes and I welcome all his artwork and display it on our "wall of wonder."

Nevermind that Taro Gomi is one of my favorite children's authors. These are great resources for getting kids to think creatively! Pages that let kids complete existing drawings by adding leaves to pre-drawn trees, or heavy things for pre-drawn cranes to lift! These books really work for me! A big thanks to Kids Craft Weekly for giving me the heads up on this.

Here are some drawings Little P did using this technique. The black lines were drawn by me (no comments on the realism please!). Click through to Flickr to see notes about what is in the drawings!

Summer's almost over, but there's still a few weeks left to squeeze in a vacation with your friends or family. Here is a list of fun things to do on vacation.

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I am not sure - that is why I am throwing this question out to the readers. My oldest is 11 going into 6th grade - there are a couple of kids in his class that have one - (that is definitely not a reason to get one) - is this the right age - help me out readers of the blog - what do you think??

I think the right age for this can vary depending on the child and the situation. There is a lot of buzz being created these days by the cell phone companies, targeting the "tween" set. IMO, you should get a phone only if it is necessary, not just to be trendy or simply to chat with his friends.

The #1 reason for getting a cell phone should be security. Ask yourself -- are you going to be dropping him off at events and he may need to call you to get a ride home? Are there times that you want to reach him and you can't without a cell phone? Do you feel like you want to keep track of where he is and can't without a phone? What is your school's policy on cell phones?

If you decide to get one, there are some cool parent-controlled phones available like TicTalk from Enforma and the Firefly. They let the parents control what the phone is used for. Don't become one of those parents that is clueless about what is being said, or texted, on the cell phone.

QI need advice on taking my 2-year old out to eat in restaurants. I am so nervous that she'll misbehave that I can't enjoy myself.

When Little P started to be more active in restaurants, I created a busy bag to keep him occupied at the table while we waited for our food to arrive. I used one of the bags I got from a makeup GWP and packed it with quiet toys like crayons, paper, mini cars, tops, etc. The variety of toys kept him from becoming bored and if the restaurant didn't have crayons it offered him something to do. I have since brought the busy bag into church as well and updated the toys to match his age!

I can totally relate to this one. I usually call ahead to get a table so the wait is not so long - then all you are waiting for is your meal. It's difficult to expect a 2 year old to wait 1/2 hour for a table and then to wait for a meal. Bring snacks or small toy that will amuse them. Got out to eat a little earlier say right at 5pm - instead of waiting until 6pm or later when you know it will be crowded and your 2 year old is probably ready for bed at that time. Be patient - we have all been there - Good Luck.

You can never be too safe around the water - it can make everyone's time at the beach or pool more fun if you follow some basic safety advice and avoid getting hurt or worse! Here are some basic tips to remember this summer:

There have been a few articles and interviews this past year about children failing in America's public school system. Why hasn't this raised an alarm bell of concern among parents? Today's children will be tomorrow's leaders. If we do not give them the tools they need to succeed in their jobs and lives upon graduation we have not adequately prepared them. Schools today don't get to make the decisions regarding your children's future -- so parents must take control and make sure schools are making the grade. Read more about this at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and via Newsweek.

I think the economy in general needs more press and the fact that interest rates just increased again for the 17th consecutive time. Make sure you check your credit card statements next month to see what kind of impact this has on you. The other story is gas/oil prices - something needs to be done about it. It's insane!!!

My oldest is going to the summer rec program and spending one week at boy scout camp. My youngest will be at the same daycare he has been at - she has a pool - what else could you ask for?

Little P is going to a mini-camp two mornings a week at his school to get ready for kindergarten in the fall. On non-camp days we'll be planning day trips to the lakes, local farms and zoos, and beaches according to what the weather brings us.

Q I've been reading a lot about Internet and online safety for kids. What are some sites that are safe for my kids to go to?

Parents need to make it a point to talk with their children about Internet safety the way you talk to them about strangers. After all, their safety is involved so it's important. NetSmartz has a lot of good information for parents and games for children to learn about Internet safety.

Q I met this guy I really like. We went out a few times, and both had a lot of fun. I thought he was really into me, but he hasn't called or texted (e-mailed). What should I do?

How was it left with him? did he say he would call or did you say you would call. You can call - if he doesnt answer or return your call then you have your answer that he doesnt want to go out anymore. Try - what's the worse that can happen?

Why are you wasting your time on this guy? If he doesn't want to put in the time up front to make you feel special, ask yourself what's he going to do in 1 year? 2 years? Girl ... kick him to the curb and look for someone who appreciates you. You're worth it!

Last week I watched a compelling segment on Oprah where they asked women across the US what was missing in their lives. They answered overwhelmingly "love for myself." So many women use work, family, and other excuses to put themselves on the back burner. Letting themselves go, or worse, doing harm to themselves in different ways. Take some time today to reflect on something you did well this week and take pride in it and honor yourself for your accomplishment! You deserve it.

Q My Mother makes me feel like Debra Barone from "Everyone Loves Raymond." She comes over to my house, and clean things that I just haven't had the time to get to, and says "Oh ... I cleaned the dishes for you." or "I watered your plants. I could see they needed it." It drives me crazy! She makes me feel so guilty for not getting to things. What should I do?

My mother does the same but not to the extreme on the show Raymond. It is just her way of helping me and at this point I will take any help I can get. Sometimes the comments get on my nerves - I usually go with the flow. Sometimes I will say something to her. Just remember your mom just wants to help - and sometimes this is the only way they know how.

I agree with Belle. I think Moms from an older generation tend to have their own style of "helping" their daughters and daughters-in-law. It seems like help to them but the comments can curdle the kindness. Instead of reacting to the comments, why not turn it into a joke and say something like "Thanks Mom -- I could swear that the laundry likes to play hide and seek with me. The problem is that I'm not always in the mood for finding it." It might make you both smile.

QI'm a mom, and to be honest, I have mixed feelings about Mother's Day. The preparation, entertaining family, etc always wears me out and by the end of the day I'm just glad it's over. What can I do differently to make this year special and fun?

Why not suggest going out to brunch or breakfast - just the Mom's that way you can visit with each other and no one has to bear the brunt of all the work... after all it is Mother's day - a day of rest and relaxation for ALL moms!! If they want to see the grandkid(s) they could certainly come over another day and have a visit.

I just read that one of the things that this generation of Moms has not mastered yet is the art of delegation. What better time to start practicing than on Mother's Day? Plan a simple menu, and let everyone in your family share in the preparation. Let someone who is good with the grill make the main course, and the kids can help with side dishes like salad. Your workload will be cut down a lot and you'll have more time to enjoy the day. Be sure to let someone else do the dishes!

We're always telling our kids how proud we are of them, and focusing on their strengths. Why don't we do the same for ourselves? Here's your chance each week to say something nice about yourself.

What have you done this week that you can be proud of? Did you lose weight? Get a promotion at work? Finish off a project at home? Help out a friend that needed an extra hand?

We'll be hosting the "Feel Good Fridays" each week. Post your thoughts on your blog, then come back here and drop a comment to let us know you're participating. Read the other messages and while you're here to see how other people are doing.

We'll select a featured "Feel Good" blog for the week and a small picture (capture) of that blog in our blog roll section for a week.

We're always telling our kids how proud we are of them, and focusing on their strengths. Why don't we do the same for ourselves? Here's your chance each week to say something nice about yourself.

What have you done this week that you can be proud of? Did you lose weight? Get a promotion at work? Finish off a project at home? Help out a friend that needed an extra hand?

We'll select a featured "Feel Good" blog for the week and a small picture (capture) of that blog in our blog roll section for a week.

Hello ... is this thing on? Testing ... 1 ... 2 ... 3. Just Kidding. I know someone out there has done something they are proud of this week! Don't be shy. Share your success with us so we can say "good job" too!

We're always telling our kids how proud we are of them, and focusing on their strengths. Why don't we do the same for ourselves? Here's your chance each week to say something nice about yourself.

What have you done this week that you can be proud of? Did you lose weight? Get a promotion at work? Finish off a project at home? Help out a friend that needed an extra hand?

We'll select a featured "Feel Good" blog for the week and a small picture (capture) of that blog in our blog roll section for a week.

A friend of mine asked me to watch her 2 children for a day this week. She had some legal meetings to attend with a family member, and I was glad to help out. I can imagine the stress and chaos of having two children in long (boring) meetings. That said, it was quite an eye opener moving from a family of one child to three *instantly.* The carseats ... the carpooling ... mealtime ... sharing! By the end of the day I was exhausted! Big snaps to all the Moms and Dads out there who manage it on a regular basis.

We're always telling our kids how proud we are of them, and focusing on their strengths. Why don't we do the same for ourselves? Here's your chance each week to say something nice about yourself.

What have you done this week that you can be proud of? Did you lose weight? Get a promotion at work? Finish off a project at home? Help out a friend that needed an extra hand?

We'll select a featured "Feel Good" blog for the week and a small picture (capture) of that blog in our blog roll section for a week.

These new videos have certainly caused a lot of controversy. What's it all about? To start, the videos are targeted at 1 to 3 olds and the American Academy of Pediatrics has advised against TV viewing for children under 2. The AAP did this because it is still unclear how TV viewing stimulates the brain at an early age. However, it is clear that positive interaction with adults and other people encourages healthy development in babies, so they would rather promote that "active" interaction. Here are the links to what the AAP recommends for TV viewing of toddlers and family viewing.

Yes there has been a lot of controversy over these videos. It has been all over the news and radio stations. I agree with Diva
everything in moderation. I have to admit that I did not adhere to the AAP warnings on TV for children under the age of 3 - HOWEVER I did not let them watch for long periods of time but they did watch some TV. In this case you need to do your research and do what is best for you and your child.

QI'm at the end of my rope. My son is 15 months old, and has begun to throw things at other children. I really need some advice because it has been going for a while and it is affecting our going to playgroups and being around other Moms with children.

The next time your son throws something, you need to make it absolutely clear that it not acceptable behavior. That may mean using a stern but firm voice and telling him "No throwing" and taking the toy (or object) that he threw away from him for a period of time. Children learn by testing their limits. They try out new behaviors and actions to see ... is this all right? Can I get away with this? If they are allowed to continue it they will. If they are corrected then they will understand that limit and move on to testing a new area. Prepare yourself. This is just the first of many normal phases he will go through!

They certainly are testing you at this age - in all sorts of ways. Be firm and tell them no throwing. Also taking the toy away like Diva said is good. Keep it simple - dont try to get into an explanation of why you took the toy away b/c the child will not understand. Good luck!

QI am having problems going out to stores with my preschooler. He throws major tantrums in the stores, yelling, kicking, and carrying on loudly when he doesn't get the toy or candy he wants. When I try to pick him up and carry him out he will do everything he can to make it difficult (and more embarrassing). He's very strong-willed. What do I do when this happens?

I have no magic answer here b/c my child has done this - many times. I make it a point to get down to his eye level before we go in the store and explain exactly what we are getting. I tell him he is not getting anything on this shopping trip. whatever you do be firm and if you are going to threaten - ie take away tv or early bed - FOLLOW THROUGH. To many times we don't do that and the kid gets a mixed message.
If this continues - try shopping at times when you know your child will not be tired - like early morning. I know its hard but it might just be easier in the store.

When your son throws a tantrum, I would explain to him in a firm but stern voice that that behavior is unacceptable. Then tell him what the consequence is going to be if he doesn't stop it -- you will leave the store and go directly home for an extended time-out period. If he doesn't stop, do whatever you have to do to follow through on the consequence. Pick him up and take him out of the store. If you are embarrassed, or inconvenienced, ask yourself which is worse - him continuing to act like that each time you go out or you walking out with him a few times so he'll stop?
When you get him home don't forget to have the time out! Remind him why you came home. He probably won't be happy about it, but the next time you tell him there's going to be a consequence, he'll know you mean business. Good luck!

QMy daughter is 5 and is a fussy eater. I have tried getting her to eat well balanced meals, but it is impossible. So now I just let her eat what she likes and I'm happy when she does eat something. The problem is that she doesn't drink milk, but she eats cheese, and yogurt. She loves chips, crackers, and salty snacks. I'm worried that she's not getting the vitamins she needs but I don't know what I can do?

The best thing you can do is continue to provide healthy meal choices and snack options for your daughter. I read once that for a child to decide if they like or don't like a food they have to try it 10 times or more. So don't give up after one try! Wait a week or so and try again. You may have a completely different reaction. I often say "You just forgot ... you really do like this." Also, as hard as it is, try not to compare her eating habits with those of other children. What works for her may not work for her friends -- that's okay. As long as she eating well her personal growth (as measured by he doctor) is normal she is doing fine.

I would first check with your pediatrician to see if he or she has suggestions and ask them about a children's vitamin.
I wouldn't force the issue - that could lead to food issues later in life. Perhaps you could try to let her plan a dinner one night of whatever she wants but the deal is she has to eat what you prepare the next night. Try chicken nuggets and serve carrots or another vegetable with it. Whatever you do try to make it fun.

QI have a 3 year old daughter and her nighttime antics have me nearly in tears. I have read and listened to all the advice that is out there and I have tried to establish some consistancy. TV is off in the evenings, stories are read every night, we sing her favorite bedtime song and sit and snuggle for a while.

That's where the frustration begins. I put her in her toddler bed, kiss her and say goodnight. She even says goodnight back as if she might listen. But almost as soon as I've left the room, she's up and out of bed.

I return her to her bed, she's up again. I return her to bed. She's up again. It's a pattern. After a while I just get frustrated and angry. I cuddle again, I give swats, I put her back in bed, I sit by the bed, door open, door shut - nothing seems to work. Finally I end up rocking her until she's so tired she just falls asleep. The entire process goes on for hours. What can I do to change it?

First of all don't give up. Been there done that. It may take a few nights or maybe even a week but it can be done. Keeping consistency and a schedule is very important for kids. Keep bedtime routine on a very strict schedule - tub, story bed. When my son was about your daughter's age he went through the same thing. Be firm - you can do this. I used a baby gate on his bedroom doorway and one night he cried for a long time and fell asleep by the gate. It stinks to see your child go through this but you need to establish the rules. They will learn. Good luck!!

It sounds like you are 80% of the way to a peaceful night. Your daughter has fallen into a pattern of going to sleep with you in the room, with you rocking her. Now you need to replace that with a new sleep cycle where she can fall asleep on her own. Instead of leaving right after storytime, why not stay with her in the dark room, on a chair, or on the floor, but not holding her. This will give her the security that you are there, but she will be in bed on her own. Each night you can slowly reduce the time you spend in the room until you leave right after her story. That way she gradually gets used to be alone -- not all at once. You've set some good habits by the bedtime routine, adding this extra step may help transition her through this phase.

QMy 4-year old was playing at the playgym with his 5-year old friend when the two children started pushing each other roughly. My son said the other boy started it, but his mother didn't reprimand him for his actions. My son is very honest, so I'm sure he wasn't to blame. I don't want to punish him for something that wasn't his fault. What should I do?

Both of the boys were involved in the situation, so both of them should be spoken to. There's no need to assess blame and make either one feel badly. If you talk to both children together neither one will feel singled out and blamed and you will have addressed the problem. Make the play rules clear and easy to understand. No pushing each other and no name calling. Treat each other as friends and play nicely. Next time they play together, you might want to remind them of the play rules -before- they start playing!

Should I worry?

Works for me - displaying artwork

What big teeth you have

Works for me - drawing pages for kids

Thirteen vacation activities

Cell phones for kids

Restaurant ruckus

Thirteen swimming safety tips

Call the press

School's out!

Internet safety for kids

Mixed signals

Feel Good Friday

Breaking the Barone syndrome

Mother's day ideas for a tired Mom

Feel good about yourself Friday

Feel good about yourself Friday

Feel good about yourself Friday

Feel good about yourself Friday

Sesame Baby Videos - good for babies?

My child is throwing things

Kicking and screaming

My daughter's meals are a disaster

Bedtime routine is tiring Mom out

Playground pushing