Play and learning are very closely linked throughout the toddler years, and your child will love nothing more than to have your involvement. The hours you spend playing with him are never wasted time; he is learning from you all the time and needs as much attention as you can manage to give. “Overseeing toddlers … Read more
Some little ones seem to be born with a sweet tooth, no matter how scrupulously savory their weaning menu has been! Sweets and treats do have a place in your toddler’s healthy, balanced diet, but it’s important to get the balance right. Q: My toddler has a sweet tooth. How can I satisfy her with … Read more
Don’t be surprised if your newly independent toddler stomps his foot and demands his own way. Fussy eating is a hallmark of the toddler years; it’s best to relax and let it run its course. Persevere and continue to offer new foods confidently and positively. Q: If my toddler flatly refuses a food over and … Read more
She had always longed for a mother that she could have a heart-to-heart talk. Instead, her mother kept her down. In the end, she had to make a choice. Growing up, my friends liked to stay the night at my house. My mother would bake crumpets and listen to their stories about the boys. My … Read more
More than four million families in the United States have at least one student enrolled in college. If you have a highschooler who is interested in pursuing higher education, then finding the right college is a major decision that requires a lot of time and is deserving of some special attention when it comes to … Read more
One to three years What to expect at each stage Over the next two years, your toddler will strive to be increasingly independent. He will become more mobile, learn about his environment, himself and other people, and develop speech and language skills. Be prepared—your child will start to have opinions and want to do things … Read more
1.4. Measuring cups and scales In addition to the common items used for measuring (e.g., measuring cups and spoons), I strongly recommend purchasing a kitchen scale. You can pour ingredients directly into a mixing bowl by weight, skipping the need for measuring cups. You will obtain better accuracy when measuring by weight. Dry ingredients such … Read more
note Some teenagers will have a natural talent for organizing and scheduling and won’t need much help. Other teens will need to be guided step-by-step. Explaining the Basics You’ll probably have more success focusing your teenager’s attention on time management if you keep the discussion as short as possible. Concentrate on the basics: Outline goals. … Read more
Q: My child can’t do half the things other parents say their children can. What am I doing wrong? A: It is worrying to hear other parents talk about how far ahead their children are—particularly if your own child appears to be slower to develop in some areas. It is important to remember, though, that … Read more
1.2. Cutting boards Most cutting boards are made of either hardwoods, such as maple or walnut, or plastics like nylon or polyethylene. Regardless of which type you get, look for ones that are at least 12″ × 18″ / 30 cm × 45 cm. Bigger is better, as long as the board fits in your … Read more
It’s no old wives’ tale; chicken soup really can help beat colds and flu symptoms. But rather than open a tin, make a bowl of our ultimate bug banisher at home Chicken is bursting with protein, which is the building block of infection-fighting immune cells. It’s also high in iron, which reduces the risk of … Read more
2.2.2.4. Unitaskers I know, I know…unitaskers. Some unitaskers are worth making space for, though, because of how well they perform their particular tasks. Box grater. A simple box grater for grating vegetables, cheese, and butter (for cutting into pastry dough) can save a lot of time. Sure, you can use a food processor with a … Read more
Q: Food seems to go flying everywhere when my daughter eats. Is this bad behavior? A: Your daughter is naturally curious about how food looks, tastes, and feels. She’s making a mess because it’s a hit-or-miss process figuring out how to feed herself, and she’s exploring the sensation of food in her hands and mouth. … Read more
Months 36–48 may be more peaceful than the previous year, as your child gradually leaves toddlerhood behind. During the months ahead, she will start to want to please you more, rather than just wanting to meet her own needs, but the year will present its own distinct challenges. “There is nothing like having a three-year-old … Read more
2. Standard Kitchen Equipment There is a balance between having the right tool for the right job and having too much stuff on hand. When looking at a potential kitchen tool, consider if you can do the task it’s intended for with a tool you already have, and whether the new gizmo is a multitasker … Read more
Q: Our son keeps biting the other children at day care. Why is he doing this? A: Day care is a fun but challenging place. Your son is learning to master new skills, and he has to share toys, games, time, and attention from staff, all of which can lead to feelings of frustration. The … Read more
“He’s growing up, but however independent he may seem, he needs you now more than ever.” Wanting to achieve You may notice your toddler has a new determination to try and succeed—give him the freedom to learn, and praise all his efforts Self-sufficient He’s more independent and can Do more precise tasks, but accept that … Read more
In a quandary? Ask Zest’s self expert, Emma Kenny. As psychologist, counsellor and life coach, no dilemma is beyond her repair. “Tell your sister you’ll only attend if she invites him. If she says no, don’t go. She’ll get the message.” ‘My family exclude my partner and it’s putting a strain on our relationship. We’ve … Read more
Cheese and Ham Pit-zas Pitas make a nice crisp base for pizzas—or pit-zas! Try my tomato sauce on page 183 or use a good-quality store-bought sauce. If you only have large pitas, then warm and split one as described in the recipe, and just use one half. Another good pizza base is a split toasted … Read more
Robert! C’est Bonhomme! The young mother is truly excited to see Bonhomme, the massive, smiley-faced white mascot of Carnaval, Quebec City’s winter carnival, step out of his special bus by the outdoor skating rink at Place D’Youville. Bonhomme waves to crush of tiny fans trying to touch him, and, in his signature move, lifts his … Read more