| Toddler Time |
| Written by Leslie Christianson-Kellow | |
| Monday, 29 October 2007 | |
|
10 Activities That Will Help Your Toddler Feel Special While You Nurse Your New Baby Imagine how it must feel to be the centre of everyone’s world – mom, dad, granny and grandpa… only to have all of that change once your little brother or sister enters the picture.To a toddler, a new baby in the house brings about many changes to their routine. Among other things, a new baby might represent the loss of time spent doing things one on one with mom. From a toddler’s point of view, it may look like the new baby’s getting all of mom’s attention, even when you’re squeezing in some time spent reading or going to the park. The trick is to turn the tables on your sweet toddler and make them think it’s really all about them. When it’s time to nurse your baby, instead of announcing every time that the baby needs nursing (because we know you’re going to have baby glued to your breast for most of the first three months…!) try twisting the situation in your toddler’s favor. For instance, when the new baby is getting restless and will need to be nursed soon, turn to your toddler and say, “Baby says it’s time to get out your play dough” or, “ Baby says it’s time for a tea party.” While you nurse your baby, your toddler can play interactively with you or do some fun activities on their own, close by. Your toddler will start thinking that the new baby sister or brother definitely has their best interests in mind. The secret is to make these particular activities only available while you are nursing. In time, your toddler will be more likely to get involved in activities and play on their own while you nurse - if you make it fun and about them. Because, after all, in their little world, everything is about them! Activities to Keep Your Toddler Busy While You Nurse Your New Baby:1. Tea party Have a tea set, spoons, tablecloth, and packaged snacks ready for use. All you have to do is sit down and nurse. Your toddler can set the table and lay out the snacks. 2. ‘Dr. Toddler’Hey, your toddler can make a house call and you’re the patient! Nurse baby while your toddler gives you a check-up with their doctor kit. 3. ReadingNursing can be such a peaceful time. If you read, then both of your kids are benefiting! 4. Book tapesThe library has tons of these life savers! If you’re too tired to read, set your toddler up with a few book tapes.5. Play doughAh, the old standby. Ask your toddler to make you a fancy cake… or a loaded pizza… 6. Special toysA baby doll for your toddler or other special toys that just come out during nursing time. 7. Activity booksSticker books, paint with water book, coloring book. 8. HairdresserHaven’t had time to get to the hairstylist? Let your toddler brush your hair and adorn with easy-to-use clips. 9. Waitress/waiterOffer a pad of paper and crayon to your toddler and let them pretend to take your order at a restaurant. 10. PicnicUse a basket and play food (or real food) to spread out a feast on a blanket on the living room floor.
Leslie is studying to be an Education Assistant and is an advocate for early literacy. She has two young daughters whom she loves to pieces and apologizes profusely for having to practice her parenting skills on. |
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
