Toddler

  • The Pitfalls and Dangers of Common Vaccines

    In the 1980s, the U.S. government decided to change the Mandatory Childhood Vaccine Schedule by intensely increasing the number of vaccines an infant and toddler should receive before the age of three. Back then, no one fully understood the implications of this until autism cases began springing up in large numbers.

  • Checking Babysitter References: Approaches, Questions, and Answers

    Even if you're considering a babysitter who is applying for her first sitting job, you should ask each candidate for references before you turn over your house keys and precious little handfuls.

  • Creative Kids Make Gifts

    Give kids just basic craft supplies and they discover, all by themselves, an endless joy of creating something new out of almost nothing. Creativity is such an important pleasure for children and for all of us. Read "Creative Kids Make Gifts" to learn more.

  • Sleeping Arrangements

    As hard as it may be to imagine, there exists a rather basic parenting issue that regularly generates even more controversy than circumcision or the disposable-versus-cloth diapers-debate: whether or not to have your child sleep in the same bed as you and your partner. Read "Sleeping Arrangements" to learn more.

  • Potty Trained or Parent Trained?

    Children consistently prove to us that ultimately their bodies are within their control. We can lead them to a potty but we really can't make them go. Read "Potty Trained or Parent Trained?" to learn more.

  • Word "No's" In The Positive

    Wording limits in the positive meets many goals of parenting: It increases the child's self-esteem, increases the parent's confidence, decreases the need for discipline or punishment, improves communication skills, increases cooperation, and teaches children self-control and how to practice power in positive ways. Learn how.

  • Bedtime Routines

    Most parents know the basic "5 B's" of bedtime routines: bath, brush teeth, bathroom, books, and bed. To prevent bedtime struggles and delays, it is always helpful to offer choices about these basic steps. Read "Bedtime Routines" to learn more.

  • Coping With a Demanding Child

    Occasionally children test limits in their attempts to separate from their parents as individuals, with preferences and ideas of their own. Parents should not, however, excuse such behavior as only a passing stage. Read "Coping With a Demanding Child" to learn more.

  • Bedtime Routines

    Most parents know the basic "5 B's" of bedtime routines: bath, brush teeth, bathroom, books, and bed. Our family, however, has invented many other fun (but not too physical) games that we've added to these basics. Because we frequently make bedtime fun, our children don't resist bedtime. Here are just a few games we've made up:

  • Potty Trained or Parent Trained?

    Children consistently prove to us that ultimately their bodies are within their control. We can lead them to a potty but we really can't make them go. So the choice is yours. How much time, attention, effort, and emotion do you want to invest in this? your choice is whether to give encouragement or try to control the child.

  • A Babysitter for Toddlers

    If the question is "Can I leave my toddler with our twelve-year-old daughter?" the answer is No! Babysitting has not received the attention it truly deserves. Remember, you are entrusting your child's life with this person.

  • Evenflo Triumph Advance LX Convertible Car Seat

    • Evenflo Triumph Advance LX Convertible Car Seat

    Convertible car seat by Evenflo - highly rated for ease of use, comfort, and safety!

    I wouldn't use this with a newborn since I wouldn't be comfortable with the amount of recline (not that much).

    For my newborn, I went with an actual infant seat. But I really like this seat a lot. The harness is easy to do/undo, but hard enough for little hands to have difficulty I think (mine's not old enough or quite strong enough to really try yet).

    Rating: 
    5
    Product Link: 
    Evenflo Triumph Advance LX Convertible Car Seat

  • Starting Solid Foods

    Pediatric societies around the world recommend exclusive breastfeeding to about six months. Most babies do fine with exclusive breastfeeding to six months of age or even a little longer. You should start your baby on solids when s/he shows signs of being ready for solids, not by the calendar.

  • Potty Trained or Parent Trained?

    Children consistently prove to us that ultimately their bodies are within their control. We can lead them to a potty but we really can't make them go. Read "Potty Trained or Parent Trained?" to learn more.

  • The Job Corps: Getting Kids to Pitch in with Chores

    I have a confession to make. My kids do a lot more work around the house than I ever did as a kid. For some reason, my parents let me get well into my teen years before introducing me to that mysterious appliance known as a washing machine.

  • Already Fighting with 13-month-old Daughter

    QUESTION

    Dear Dr. Laura,
    My daughter and I have a loving relationship where I believe the vast majority of her needs have been met. She is a real blessing to me, and generally very sweet; however I am growing exhausted by a certain defiant behavior she has recently developed.

  • 10 Tips to Prepare Your Child for a New Sibling

    It's obvious that the less displaced your older child feels by the new baby, the less jealousy she'll suffer. One way for her to feel secure in her role in the family is invite her to join the "home team" along with the parents.

  • Eighteen Month Old Reaction to New Baby

    QUESTION

    Hi Dr. Laura,
    I have an adorable eighteen month old boy. A month ago I had my second little boy. My eighteen month old has always had the sweetest most easy going temperament. He was so fun loving and easy to take care of. After the baby was born he had no negative reactions.

    Now, a month later, he has undergone a complete personality change. He is cranky most of the day and just spends a lot of time whining and crying.

    Interestingly enough, he seems to like the baby. He likes to look at him and hold him.

  • Avoid Kids' Blood Sugar "Spike and Crash", Recipes

    Looking for some healthy alternatives to cookies; some quick and healthy breakfast cookies to eat on-the-go. Missy Lapine Chase, the Sneaky Chef, has recipe ideas for you:

  • Jogging, Dogs and Baby Strollers

    It's a beautiful day and you've decided to try out your new jogging stroller with baby and dog in tow. Before your baby came along, you and your furry friend logged countless miles jogging around the neighborhood.

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