Q: My son is not “work ready.” What can I do to help him? A: There is a specific set of skills that will help your son do well no matter what job he goes for. These include attending every day unless he’s sick, arriving on time, appearing clean and tidy, and listening to instructions … Read more
If your family has selected a hard-copy planner (or if you’re still considering this option), then this section is for you. You’ll design a location to keep your new planner and put in place the basic system that you’ll be using to organize your family’s schedule. Things You’ll Need Your new planner Nails and hammer, … Read more
Managing the internet How to ensure safe, effective use The internet invites your child into an arena of learning, friendships, and fun that can be rich and exciting. She can reach out to other children across the globe and interact in real time, peer into the world of others through YouTube, and share something of … Read more
Q: My child seems to want to be online all the time. Could she be addicted to the internet? A: Using the internet can become a compelling and time-consuming pastime for your child. The excitement of making new friends, online gaming, and creating then refining a new persona for herself can keep her online. While … Read more
In the next six months your toddler will be walking, and even running, more steadily, freeing her brain to focus on another vital skill: improving her ability to talk. A great deal of learning continues to take place through play and almost everything you do will offer potential for fun and ways to develop new … Read more
Perhaps the most important, but also most challenging, part of being a parent is finding personal time. You have taken on a role, a label, and a host of expectations about your behavior, your priorities, your choices, and the use of your time, that will transform your life and your vision of yourself. “As a … Read more
Bathing and washing How to clean your baby There are differing views on how to bathe and wash a baby, but the general opinion seems to be that less is more. Some say it is unnecessary to bathe your baby daily, others say if you want to, just use water and, if you want, pH-neutral … Read more
Holding your newborn New parents, particularly first-timers, sometimes worry about picking their baby up or carrying them properly. However, newborn babies are not as fragile as you think. Although of course you still need to be careful when handling your baby, it’s best to trust in your ability. The more you practice, the easier it … Read more
Q: Even though we have a toddler, I’m still scared I’ll drop the baby. Do other dads feel like this? A: This is a normal and natural feeling and affects the majority of all new dads (and many moms!). Babies seem to be such fragile little creatures, especially because of their size compared to you. … Read more
Ages, stages, and milestones What to expect Your newborn is prepared for the most rapid period of development in her life, and you’ll play a central role as caregiver and teacher. You’ll also witness her growing relationships, communication, and physical development. Below are some of the milestones you can expect her to reach in the … Read more
Q: I hate the thought of being in the hospital—how soon can I go home with my baby? A: In most maternity units, there is a degree of flexibility as to how long you remain in the hospital after the birth. If you want to stay for as brief a period as possible, talk to … Read more
Q: Everyone is giving me advice about my baby. How do I tell them nicely to back off? A: When you have a new baby it seems everyone is willing to offer advice, whether you want it or not. Even complete strangers will approach you to offer their suggestions for colic, crying, and all else … Read more
This time is an important transition for you and your baby. Whether she’s a slow starter or instant foodie, you’ll both take pleasure in the process of mastering self-feeding, introducing new tastes, and enjoying the world of food. Q: Can I wait longer than six months to introduce first foods? A: It may be tempting … Read more
Q: I think that my daughter’s friends are a bad influence. Can I forbid her from seeing them? A: Banning something usually makes it more attractive. Trying to ban friends is practically difficult and may well mean that the friendship becomes clandestine, making it deliciously exciting. The subterfuge will only distance your daughter from you … Read more
Your baby’s first spoonfuls are exciting milestone for both you and your baby. It’s only natural to approach weaning with some anxiety—there are lots of things to consider as your baby begins his journey on the road to independence, but it’s a process you’ll both enjoy. Q: How do I know if my baby is … Read more
A big priority for your toddler during months 18–24 will be multisensory development. Sights, sounds, smells, and textures all contribute to the hands-on experience that will develop memory and help children remember things far more effectively than simply by telling them. Your toddler’s brain will continue to develop during months 18–24 in much the same … Read more
Q: My daughter sees her father every other weekend, but wants to keep photos of him all over the house. I would rather she did not. A: Your daughter has come up with a way to keep her father present in her everyday life. Maintaining a strong relationship with both of you is known to … Read more
Over the next six months your toddler will start to replace her baby “babble” with real words to describe things. Her ability to understand what you say will improve much more quickly and you may be surprised to find how easily she follows basic instructions, too. “Your toddler may get frustrated at times. Imagine if … Read more
Weaning can sometimes be overwhelming for your baby, and he’ll take comfort in his regular milk feeds. What’s more, the nutrients in his milk will support his growth and development while he gets to grips with the whole new world of tastes and textures. Q: My baby doesn’t seem remotely interested in anything but milk—how … Read more
Every baby is different, both in the way they approach mealtimes and in their individual tastes. There is plenty to consider when you begin weaning, but try to relax as you introduce your little one to solid foods, and choose amongst these tried-and-tested solutions for the hurdles you might encounter. Q: Where is the best … Read more