My nose has always been exceptional in picking out different scents. It’s a sense I rely on quite a bit since my vision isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be...(sigh) BABIES, too, have a pretty well-developed sense of smell. In fact they’ve been, right from the get-go (ie, in utero), exposed to smells. You’ve probably been impressed with the realization at just how quickly babies learn to differentiate, and prefer, certain … [Read more...]
To Nap or Not To Nap: When & How
The topic: Nap time. Specifically when to be nap free. So I did an (unscientific) poll to find out when kiddos give up taking a nap. The results showed my children were on the early side, stopping before 2. The consensus was somewhere between 2-4 years of age. Mr Teacher Karen napped consistently throughout his kindergarten years and many parents posted comments that their older children napped well into their 3rd, 4th and 5th years too. It’s been too … [Read more...]
PEPS–A Family Affair
When I am invited to speak at a PEPS group I look forward to it for many reasons. I’m very happy to be able to share the importance of PLAY, and its many benefits, of course, with new parents. I love to give them PLAY-based learning activities they can do with their babies. And, I like to take every opportunity to emphasize the importance of immersing babies in language right from the start. But the BEST thing about speaking at a PEPS group? In a word: BABIES! I am over-the-moon thrilled to see … [Read more...]
We’re Going to Grandma’s! A Checklist for Grandmas
Grandmas have always been special to me. I remember when I was young going to grandma's. It was always a fantastic time, made even more so since I had cousins around! Fast forward a few decades. Oh alright, many many decades! If you’re like me, the prospect of having your own grandchildren visit has you walking on clouds of anticipation, especially if they’re visiting from out of town. I firmly believe in supporting my (adult) children in whatever career path they’ve chosen. Even if that … [Read more...]
Babies’ Laughter: Music to My Ears
Babies' laughter--there's just nothing sweeter to hear! I would go so far as to say no one can resist breaking into a huge smile, if not joining right in with them! LAUGHING is a way babies interact with family members. I recently read an article that shed light on just how much more information we can glean from babies' laughter! In the article Peek-a-Boo: A Window on Baby's Brain laughter is shown to been an effective tool at pinpointing stages in the way a baby's minds is growing … [Read more...]