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Browsing Tag: kids
As a mother, I definitely get stuck in a rut sometimes. There I am, trying to get something done and then it happens. My kid is bored. And even though we have toys and other things around, she just can’t find something to keep her occupied. Of course all of the things I’m suggesting are not things she wants to do. None of the old standbys like coloring will work. Then I realize that I need to come up with some new activities. It can be a little overwhelming, but here are the places where I look for new activities for kids.
Pros: Lets be honest, Pinterest is definitely a place I look for new ideas. I can find some really good activities there and most of them are easily put together. It is also great because I can search for something specific I’d like.
Cons: But sometimes the projects are not things I can do at home or without buying a ton of supplies. And sometimes I click on it and it doesn’t bring me to the right page.
Library
Pros: The library is a great place to look for activities. I can find books my child will like along with books I’d like to check out that have activities. Sometimes libraries even have a lending program for small toys or activities.
Cons: You have to leave home. And really, sometimes that just doesn’t cut it. Also, you may be limited by the size of your library. My local library is tiny. I can order things from the other libraries in the system, but again I have to wait.
Thrift Stores/Garage Sales
Pros: You can find nice, quality things for cheap at thrift stores and garage sales. I’ve found great toys, puzzles, and books there that have given me great ideas. You know you’ll be able to find at least one of those great 90’s books that have a ton of activities listed.
Cons: Once again, you have to leave home. You also aren’t guaranteed that the toy is in good shape or that the puzzle has all of the pieces.
So where else do you look for new activities?
As a teacher, I have a front row seat to children misbehaving. Most of the time, I am in no way judging other parents. Kids get tired, they get sick, they have a bad day and they throw a fit or decide not to listen. It happens. But one thing that does bother me is when a kid doesn’t listen and you can tell this isn’t a one-off or a bad day. It is something that consistently happens.
I’ll give you a hint: as someone who works with kids, we can tell the difference. We can tell when a parent is embarrassed and just trying to get their kid out without losing their cool. We can also tell when a parent lets their kid have total control over everything.
(Make sure you check out my post of tips for dealing with stubborn toddlers. These can come in super helpful when dealing with a non-listening toddler! You should also check out my ebook about how to give a toddler choices. Giving a toddler choices can help significantly cut down on tantrums. )
Let me tell you something: That doesn’t have to be the case. You can take back control by getting your child to listen, specifically when you are out and about. I’m not talking about blind obedience. I’m not saying your child will listen 100% of the time. I’m just saying your child needs to understand that you are the adult and what you say goes. Here are five ways to get your child to listen.
