Toddlers & Preschoolers

A Desperate Mom Wanted To Know What To Do
When your kids wake up too early, it can be a real challenge to get them back to bed. But what if you’re not sure what to do? You’re not alone. Many parents struggle with their little ones’ sleep patterns, and it can be overwhelming. That’s why we asked our community of parents to share their top tips and tricks for surviving the pre-dawn wake-ups.

The Unconventional Family Travel Rules

After making so many mistakes on family vacations, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works and what doesn’t. Here are my 10 “unconventional” family travel rules that have saved our sanity:

• Pack Light: Don’t overpack, it’s just extra stress.
• Be Flexible: Things won’t always go as planned, so roll with it.
• Take Breaks: Kids (and adults) need downtime to recharge.
• Make Time for Fun: Don’t forget to have fun!

The Bare Minimum Dad

A dad showed us what he does while his wife is at work, and let’s just say it’s impressive. He’s set the bar high for all of us dads out there. Here are some takeaways from his daily routine:

• Prioritize: Focus on what’s important, and delegate the rest.
• Be Present: Spend quality time with your kids, even if it’s just a few minutes a day.
• Communicate: Keep your partner in the loop, and make sure everyone is on the same page.

The Toddler Nap Schedule

When it comes to holidays, weddings, and birthdays, is a napping toddler an excuse to skip? We asked a mom to weigh in on this topic, and here’s what she had to say:

• Be Flexible: Don’t stress if your toddler won’t nap, just adapt your plans.
• Create a Routine: Establish a consistent nap schedule, even on special days.
• Communicate: Let your guests know what to expect, and make arrangements accordingly.

The Head Start List

Trump sent Head Start a list of 200 words to stop using to describe their programming. The list included words like “accessible,” “diverse,” ‘DEI,” “inclusive,” and “Black.” Here are some takeaways from this list:

• Be Honest: Use language that accurately reflects your program’s goals and values.
• Avoid Jargon: Use simple, clear language that everyone can understand.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the real-world impact of your program, rather than just its features.

The Miserable Seatmate

Podcaster parents admitted to making a seatmate’s life “miserable” after he refused to switch seats with them. And they were laughing while retelling this story! Here are some takeaways from this experience:

• Respect Boundaries: Don’t push someone to do something they’re not comfortable with.
• Be Considerate: Think about how your actions might affect others.
• Apologize: If you’ve made someone uncomfortable, apologize and make amends.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

This woman wants to know if she’s in the wrong for barring her sister’s family from coming to Thanksgiving. Her entire family has hand, foot, and mouth disease. Here are some takeaways from this situation:

• Prioritize Health: Don’t put your loved ones’ health at risk by exposing them to illness.
• Communicate: Let your family know why you’re making this decision, and try to find a compromise.
• Be Understanding: Recognize that everyone has different priorities and boundaries.

Praise 100 Times a Day

Kids need to be praised 100 times a day for parents to see behavioral changes, says doctor and parent coach. And that number quadruples if you have a neurodivergent kiddo. Here are some takeaways from this advice:

• Be Consistent: Praise your child regularly, and in a consistent way.
• Be Specific: Praise your child for specific behaviors, rather than just generic praise.
• Focus on Effort: Praise your child for their effort, rather than just their results.

iPad Kids

This dad says that parents of “iPad kids” are “borderline abusive” in a viral TikTok. He shared his take after seeing a family on screens at a local McDonald’s. Here are some takeaways from this perspective:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules around screen time, and enforce them consistently.
• Prioritize Interactions: Make time for face-to-face interactions with your child, and prioritize their social and emotional needs.
• Be Mindful: Recognize the potential impact of excessive screen time on your child’s development and well-being.

By following these expert tips and tricks, you can survive the chaos of parenting toddlers and preschoolers and thrive as a family. Remember to be flexible, communicate regularly, and prioritize your child’s health and well-being.