Why a Consistent Sleep Schedule is Key

Consistency in a child’s bedtime routine works wonders. Just like how we adults rely on our routines to function, kids do, too. Setting a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate their body clock, making bedtime smoother. Once they know it’s time to settle down, it becomes easier for them to relax into sleep mode.

So, what does a consistent sleep schedule look like? Here are a few things to try:

• Set a fixed bedtime: It doesn’t have to be super early, but pick a time and stick to it—even on weekends.
• Avoid big variations: If you allow them to stay up later on weekends, try to keep it within 30-60 minutes of their usual bedtime.
• Morning matters too: Waking up at the same time every day is just as important as when they go to bed.

Kids need structure, and this regularity will eventually help their body recognize when it’s time to sleep.

Crafting a Bedtime Routine and Sleep Schedule That Works for Your Kids

Here’s the thing—bedtime routines don’t have to be fancy or take forever. They just need to be calm, predictable, and comforting. And if your child is having trouble falling asleep, a solid routine can make all the difference. Here’s what I’ve found to work, both personally and from speaking with other parents:

1. A Warm Bath: This is a game-changer. Not only does a bath help your child unwind, but the change in body temperature afterward helps signal that it’s time for bed.
2. Pajama Time: Let them pick out their pajamas. Kids love making choices, and it gives them a sense of control (a big plus if your child tends to fight bedtime).
3. Dim the Lights: Lower the lighting in your home about 30 minutes before bedtime. This mimics the natural transition to darkness, telling your child’s body it’s time to produce melatonin, the sleep hormone.
4. Read a Story: Pick a soothing book, something gentle and not too stimulating. If they’re old enough, let them choose the book for an extra bit of excitement.
5. Cuddles and Comfort: A hug, a favorite stuffed animal, or just sitting beside them for a minute or two can help them feel safe and ready to fall asleep.

Remember, bedtime routines are about bonding and relaxation, not perfection. Don’t stress if it doesn’t go smoothly every night!

Dealing with Bedtime Resistance with Kids

Okay, let’s talk about the “I’m not tired” struggle. Sound familiar? Maybe your child is wide-eyed and wired, even though you know they need the sleep. Trust me, every parent has faced this at some point.

Here are some things that can help:

• Give Choices: Kids love having control, so offer two acceptable bedtime choices. “Do you want to brush your teeth first or put on your PJs?” This helps them feel empowered without delaying the process.
• Stick to the Plan: When kids ask for “just one more book” or say they’re thirsty, acknowledge their feelings but gently remind them it’s time for bed. A small sip of water is fine, followed by, “I know you’d love another story, but let’s rest now.” This shows understanding while maintaining the routine.
• Bedtime Pass: For older kids, consider introducing a “bedtime pass” that grants them one extra request—like a hug, a story, or a trip to the bathroom. This way, they feel heard and valued. Once they use their pass, gently remind them that it’s time to settle down for the night. This approach helps ease anxiety and promotes a smoother bedtime routine without feeling too restrictive.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment for Your Kids

Sometimes, it’s not the routine that’s the problem—it’s the environment. Creating the right setting can make a world of difference in how quickly your child falls asleep.

Here’s how to make their room more sleep-friendly:

• Cool and Comfortable: A slightly cool room (between 60-67°F) is ideal for sleep.
• Block Out Light: If your child needs a nightlight, opt for a soft, warm-colored light. Consider blackout curtains if outside lights are an issue.
• Minimize Noise: White noise machines or soothing nature sounds can block out household noises.
• Limit Electronics: This is a big one. Keep TVs, tablets, and phones out of the bedroom, and avoid screen time for at least an hour before bed.

The goal is to make their room a peaceful, cozy space that signals “sleep” and not “play” or “watch TV.”

What If They Keep Waking Up at Night?

You’ve nailed the routine, the room is perfect, but your child is still waking up in the middle of the night. This can be incredibly frustrating, but there are ways to handle it.

1. Check Their Environment: Is their room still dark and quiet? If they fell asleep with a nightlight, make sure it’s still on. The key is for their environment to be the same when they wake as it was when they fell asleep.
2. Stay Calm and Consistent: When your child wakes up, don’t make it a big deal. Gently remind them that it’s still time to sleep and guide them back to bed.
3. Avoid Engaging Too Much: Try not to start long conversations or give in to requests for a snack. Keep interactions brief and soothing.

Is It Time to Seek Help for Your Kids Who Struggle to Sleep?

If you’ve tried everything and your child is still struggling to fall or stay asleep, it might be time to reach out to a pediatrician. Issues like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome can disrupt sleep and may require medical attention.

Bedtime doesn’t have to be a nightly struggle. With the right sleep schedule, a calming routine, and a few tweaks to your child’s environment, you’ll both be getting more sleep in no time. Be patient with yourself (and your child)—these things take time to develop, but the payoff is worth it. You’ve got this!

Here are some tips and top questions sleep consultants get from parents.

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Here are the top picks for the kiddos who love to carry everything to school:

1. JanSport SuperBreak Backpack 
   

JanSport has been a trusted brand for ages, and their SuperBreak Backpack is a classic choice. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it ideal for kids who like to fill their bags to the brim. With a roomy main compartment and a handy front utility pocket, there’s plenty of space for all their essentials. Plus, it comes in a range of fun colors and patterns to suit every personality!

Pros:

• Lightweight with durable construction.
• Spacious main compartment.
• Available in a variety of colors.
• No mesh bottle pockets that catch up on tings and rip.

  Cons:

• The straps have limited padding, which can make it tiring to wear for longer periods.
• The lack of specialized compartments may make organization a tad difficult.

2. L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack 
   
   L.L.Bean has been an epitome of quality and adventure for generations. Their Deluxe Book Pack is tough as nails, with reinforced stitching and weather resistant fabric that can handle all the antics your little one gets up to. They have plenty of pockets for organizing the kids’ goodies, and cushioned shoulder straps for added comfort. These backpacks are extremely durable, so they could serve as a good investment for multiple summers.

   Pros:

• Reinforced stitching for durability.
• Water resistant fabric.
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organization.
• Water bottle pocket can hold up 12-to-14-ounce kids water bottles.

  Cons:

• The backpacks do not have a sternum strap, so its important to ensure that the size is correct for your child. A bigger size might feel bulky to the child.

3. Skip Hop Zoo Big Kids Backpack If you’re looking for something a little more playful, the Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpack is sure to delight your little one. With adorable animal designs and kid-friendly features like a mesh side pocket for their water bottle and a front pouch for snacks, this backpack is as functional as it is cute. Plus, it’s perfectly sized for preschoolers and young elementary schoolers.

   Pros:

• Attractive designs that kids love.
• Front pouch for snacks and small items.
• The size is perfect for preschoolers and young elementary students.
• Have sturdy zippers and adjustable straps.
• Reasonably priced.

  Cons:

• Mesh water bottle pockets that can get stuck on things and rip.
• The sleek design may compromise on storage a little more than our other picks.

4. Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Youth Backpack 
   
   For a trendy option that doesn’t compromise on functionality, check out the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Youth Backpack. It has a sleek design with modern features like a padded sleeve, which can be perfect for your older kiddos. They have a range of designs to choose from and have great storage for kids who want to carry a bit more gear.

   Pros:

• Spacious compartments without being bulky.
• Padded laptop sleeve.
• Adjustable shoulder straps for customized fit.
• Good quality zippers that can endure rough use.

Cons:

• Might be a little bulky for preschoolers or kids who do not typically carry laptops.
• Younger kiddos might find the designs less attractive.

5. Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack 
   
   Last but certainly not least, we have the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack. It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your little artist to make it their own! With its customizable options and sturdy construction, it’s a favorite among parents and kids alike. And with padded straps and plenty of pockets, it’s as practical as it is pretty! The also make adaptive backpacks designed for kids with disabilities.

   Pros:

• Perfect for little designers who want their favorite characters (Toy Story, Paw Patrol, Disney Princesses), or unique features (glow in the dark, shimmery, etc).
• Offers five size options, including one of a rolling bag.
• Spacious and sturdy.
• Many compartments to help keep things organized.

  Cons:

• The backpacks may seem a little childish for older kids.
• Laptop sleeve is not padded, so kids who carry laptops may need added protection.
• Mesh water bottle pockets may be vulnerable to catching on something.
• Customizable feature makes delivery time long (besides, there are labels and tags for that!)
• High cost due to customization.

So, there you have it, a roundup of backpacks that’ll turn your little one’s adventures into epic quests filled with excitement, imagination, and endless possibilities. No matter which backpacks you choose, you can be confident that your little one will be ready for any adventure that comes their way. And with convenient shipping options available for both the US and Canada, you can have their new backpack delivered in time. Strap in and get ready to watch them soar!

Happy packing!

The post Top Backpack Picks for Kids Who Love to Carry Everything to School! appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Fun ways to ease the transition back to school

1. Create a Countdown Calendar with a Twist: Sure, countdown calendars are nothing new, but how about adding a fun twist? Instead of just marking the days until school starts, why not make each day a mini celebration? Have a themed movie night, a backyard campout, or a DIY spa day.Not only will this keep the kids excited, but it’ll also make the transition feel less daunting for everyone involved. These activities will also help spark conversations about going back to school, and your child might want to share what they are anxious or excited about. These will give you cues to help them navigate their emotions better.
2. Embrace the Power of Play: Who says learning can’t be fun? Take advantage of those last precious days of summer by incorporating educational games and activities into your routine.Whether it’s a scavenger hunt at the park to brush up on nature knowledge or a cooking class to teach math and science skills, finding playful ways to learn will keep those young minds engaged and ready to tackle the school year ahead. Brushing up on these skills will also make your child feel more confident in getting back to their new grade.
3. Host a Back-to-School Bash: Why wait until the first day of school to reconnect with friends and classmates? Throw a back-to-school bash for your kids and their friends to reignite those social bonds and get everyone excited about the upcoming year.It could be as simple as a game of tug of war in the backyard, or a hoola-hooping competition. Meeting their school friends before school starts definitely makes the children excited to get back to school.
4. Involve the Kids in Back-to-School Prep: Transitioning from lazy summer days to the structured routine of school can be a shock to the system for kids. Get them involved in the back-to-school prep to help ease the transition. Let them pick out their own school supplies, plan their outfits for the first week, and pack their own lunches.Let them pick out their own name labels, not only does this give them a task to get excited, but they’re also learning to organize themselves, a when they pick their own labels, they have a greater sense of ownership and responsibility for their things.
   If you have kindergartners, it would be helpful to have them use their new lunchboxes and water bottles at home so that they do not feel overwhelmed when using it for the first time in class.
5. Start a Family Book Club: Reading is a great way to escape the back-to-school jitters and get lost in new worlds. Kickstart a family book club where everyone picks a book to read together and then meets to discuss it over snacks and hot cocoa.Not only does this encourage a love of reading, but it also provides a cozy way to bond as a family before the hustle and bustle of the school year begins. You can look up your nearest local library for interesting books on starting school.
6. Set Intentions, Not Resolutions: Instead of making lofty resolutions that are bound to fizzle out by October, encourage your family to set intentions for the new school year.Whether it’s practicing kindness, staying organized, or prioritizing self-care, setting intentions helps to create a positive mindset and fosters personal growth throughout the year. Plus, it’s a great way to reinforce the idea that every day is a fresh start.
7. Create a “No-Stress” Morning Routine for back to school: Mornings can be chaotic enough without adding the stress of back-to-school madness into the mix. Take some time to create a “no-stress” morning routine that sets everyone up for success.Whether it’s laying out clothes the night before, prepping breakfast ahead of time, or incorporating mindfulness exercises into your morning routine, finding ways to start the day off on the right foot will make the transition to school days that much smoother.
8. Celebrate the Little Victories: As the first day of school draws near, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of preparation. But don’t forget to take a moment to celebrate the little victories along the way. Whether it’s mastering a new skill, conquering a fear, or simply making it through a hectic day with a smile, every small win deserves to be celebrated. After all, it’s the journey, not just the destination, that truly matters.

So, there you have it, my fellow parents! With these strategies, you will be ready to tackle the transition from summer to school with confidence and ease. Remember, it’s all about finding joy in the journey and making memories along the way. Here’s to a smooth sailing school year ahead! For more back to school content, check out our Back-to-School Hub for parents.

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As a mom, I understand the importance of finding quality educational tools that ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning in our little ones. Here are the best educational apps out there, both free and paid, tailored to different age groups, from the early years of kindergarten to the advanced stages of middle and high school.

Kindergarten/Grade One: Embarking on the ABCs of Learning

For our youngest learners, educational apps should be like gentle guides, leading them through the wonders of early education while nurturing their budding curiosity and creativity.

Best Free Educational Apps for kids:

1. ABCmouse – Let your child explore a magical world of learning with ABCmouse, where they can dive into subjects like math, reading, and art through interactive activities and games.
2. PBS Kids Games – Delightful characters like Elmo and Curious George accompany your child on educational adventures, teaching early literacy and numeracy skills through fun-filled games and activities.
3. Endless Alphabet – With its whimsical animations and engaging puzzles, Endless Alphabet introduces young minds to letters and vocabulary in a playful and interactive way, laying the foundation for future literacy skills.

Best Paid Educational Apps for Kids:

1. Montessori Preschool – Inspired by the Montessori method, this app provides hands-on activities to promote learning in areas such as math, language, and practical life skills, fostering independence and curiosity in young learners.
2. Sago Mini World – Bursting with vibrant colors and imaginative play, Sago Mini World offers a collection of games designed to spark creativity and problem-solving skills in preschoolers, encouraging them to explore and imagine.
3. Reading Eggs – Watch as your early reader blossoms with Reading Eggs, where engaging activities and lessons help children develop phonics skills and improve reading fluency in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Grade Two to Six: Apps for Building Skills and Confidence

As children progress through elementary school, educational apps should act as companions, guiding them through the challenges of academic growth while keeping the learning journey exciting and rewarding.

Free Apps for building confidence in kids

1. Khan Academy Kids – Tailored to your child’s pace and level, Khan Academy Kids offers personalized learning experiences in math, reading, and social-emotional skills, empowering them to learn and grow at their own speed.
2. Duolingo – Turn language learning into a playful adventure with Duolingo, where colorful lessons and interactive exercises make mastering a new language feel like a fun challenge rather than a chore.
3. ScratchJr – Introduce your child to the basics of coding with ScratchJr, where they can create their own interactive stories and games using simple coding blocks, fostering creativity and computational thinking skills.

Paid Apps for building confidence in kids

1. Prodigy – Transform math practice into an epic quest with Prodigy, where engaging gameplay and adaptive learning technology motivate children to conquer mathematical concepts while embarking on exciting adventures in a fantasy world.
2. Toca Life World – Enter a world of endless possibilities with Toca Life World, where imaginative play and storytelling come to life in a vibrant digital playground filled with characters, places, and surprises waiting to be discovered.
3. Osmo Genius Kit – Blending digital gameplay with hands-on learning, Osmo Genius Kit offers a multisensory approach to education, with activities that cover a range of subjects, from math and art to problem-solving and critical thinking.

Grade Six and Beyond: Apps Exploring Advanced Concepts

For older children, educational apps should serve as mentors, guiding them through complex subjects and challenging them to think critically and creatively.

Free Apps grade 6 +

1. Google Classroom – Simplify virtual learning with Google Classroom, a platform that streamlines communication and assignment management, allowing students to stay organized and focused on their studies.
2. Quizlet – Mastering new concepts is a breeze with Quizlet, where flashcards, quizzes, and games make studying vocabulary and topics in any subject more engaging and effective.
3. TED-Ed – Ignite a passion for learning with TED-Ed, where captivating educational videos and thought-provoking lessons inspire curiosity and critical thinking in students of all ages.

Paid Apps for Grade 6 +

1. IXL – Personalized learning paths and detailed explanations make IXL a valuable resource for middle and high school students seeking comprehensive practice in math, language arts, science, and social studies, helping them build confidence and achieve academic success.
2. Codecademy – Dive into the world of coding with Codecademy, where interactive lessons and projects teach programming languages like Python, HTML, and JavaScript, empowering students to become creators in the digital age.
3. Duolingo Plus – Enhance the language learning experience with Duolingo Plus, offering ad-free lessons and offline access to a wealth of content designed to help students master new languages with ease and confidence.

To sum it up, educational apps are like little helpers in our pockets, making learning an exciting adventure for our kids. They’re like secret weapons, sparking curiosity, fueling creativity, and giving our children the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond.

Whether your little one is just starting out or spreading their wings into more advanced topics, these apps have got your back! So why not dive in and explore? With so many options out there, there’s bound to be something that’ll light up your kiddo’s eyes and make learning feel like playtime. Let’s unleash the power of educational apps and watch our tech-savvy kids soar to new heights! Looking for our top tv recommendations, check these out!

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While the idea of moving seemed exciting sometimes, most of the time, leaving your parents, your home, your friends, and the life we had built together seemed daunting. After all, we do need our village to survive. Would we be able to create a new village in the new country? Would our children get to know about our traditions and roots? All these questions never left our minds when we came to Canada.

Two years down, I think we have been on the right path in building our new home, making our own family traditions, and adapting to the change while keeping our roots intact. Here are a few tips to help immigrant families transition while keeping old traditions.

Sharing stories from home

One way to keep your roots strong is by sharing stories from your home country. Very often, we sit down as a family and talk about your culture, traditions, and the history of your homeland. I asked my friend to send in some books from home that I could read at bedtime. The girls find them very amusing and have lots of questions about them. This often sparks conversations about my husband and my personal childhood experiences. It makes them understand where they come from and value differences.

Making traditional meals together

Back home, like any culture, we had special food for special occasions. I started making those for them to recreate some of my core childhood memories that I still carry with myself. Just like the smell of a particular cuisine reminds you of a special occasion, I try to create that for my daughters here. It is delightful to watch them cherish it and own it.

Celebrating cultural holidays together

As a family, we make sure to make a big deal out of the cultural/religious holidays that we celebrate back home. The best thing about Canada’s diverse culture is that we can get decorations similar to back home easily. A night before the holiday, we decorate our home, we dress up, and celebrate as a family just the way we used to.

Speaking the native language at home

When we moved here, we made sure to speak in our native language at home. This keeps them connected to their roots and helps them not feel alienated when we speak to friends or family back home. They love listening to songs and watching movies about them. One day, my daughter came very excited from school because they played a well-known song from our home country at her school’s cultural day. I remember her feeling so proud of her identity. A bonus is that it helps them stay connected with their grandparents back home.

Visiting back home

Now that Covid restrictions are over, planning a trip back home has become easier. Since we came here, we have been able to make one trip back home, it really helped in refreshing my children’s memory about it. While they loved meeting family, and experiencing their traditions firsthand, it also made them value what we have created here more. We got to eat our favorite local street food and had a wholesome time.

Staying connected

The hardest part of moving to a new country is the fear of missing out on what is happening back home. All I wanted was to be there for my best friend on her wedding, and with my family on my grandfather’s death. I mourned my children not being able to be there on some of the most special occasions back home. However, in this digital age, talking to our loved ones back home and staying connected with them on video calls and texts has been the biggest support. It helps making the miles long distance feel less far.

In the end, the tough times make us realize how strong and resilient we are. While embarking on a new journey, keeping a piece of your home with you through these little traditions keeps us grounded. Moving away from home might feel overwhelming, however, gradually, we learn to make a new home for our family to call their haven. Just like the roots of the trees, our own roots help our family grow and thrive in our new home.

The post Immigrant Families: Balancing Old Traditions with New Beginnings appeared first on The Mabelhood.

What is gentle parenting?

• It is backed by research, leaning towards authoritative parenting.
• It draws a clear boundary with your children that is helpful for their safety and well-being.
• It involves resolving conflicts together by discussing the reason behind the set rules and boundaries.
• It looks beyond punishments and consequences of bad behaviour and focuses more on the reason why the child is behaving a particular way.

What is permissive parenting?

• Permissive parents have extremely low expectations from their children. They believe that their child is incapable of making better choices.
• Permissive parenting gives all the control to the child and has inconsistent boundaries with them.
• Parents do not impose any structure or schedule to their child’s life.
• The emphasis is on the freedom of the child over their responsibility.

Let us investigate how both parenting styles differ from each other by looking at two scenarios and how each parenting method would deal with it.

Situation 1:
[A four-year-old is scribbling on the walls.]

Reaction:
A permissive parent would ask the child not to scribble on the wall, but if the child shows resistance, the parent will clean up the mess themselves.

A gentle parent would acknowledge that scribbling on the wall may be fun; however, it is not allowed in their family. The parent would ask the child to clean it up, offering help if needed. The parent would consistently show the child that they must use paper for coloring. They can also get creative by sticking a chart paper on the child’s room wall, where they can scribble and color.  This would let the child know that the parent understands their feeling and curiosity; however, they need to follow their family rules.

Situation 2:
[An eight-year-old is refusing to eat what is cooked for dinner.]

Reaction:
A permissive parent would empathize with the child and fix them a plate that the child wants to eat.

A gentle parent would acknowledge that their child might not like what is cooked that night, however, will not offer to replace the food. They would tell the child to eat as much as they feel like, but what is on the table is what they get.

How does each style of parenting affect the children, according to most research?

Effects of permissive parenting on children:

• Under the permissive style of parenting, children generally tend to struggle more with making decisions. This is because they have hardly been exposed to guidelines or rules, which help develop problem-solving skills.
• As adults, they struggle to create a balanced lifestyle for themselves. When there is no structure and routine in their childhood, they find it difficult to balance their daily routine as adults.
• They tend to get stressed easily when presented with difficult situations. This is because they have been used to getting their way during childhood.
• They hold a high self-esteem and sense of self-worth.

Effects of gentle parenting on children:

• Studies have shown that children who grow with the gentle parenting method have reduced childhood anxiety. This is because of the consistent support, empathy, and encouragement given to them by their parents.
• Children develop healthier adult relationships as they mirror their own relationships with their parents. Since the children have grown up being respected, they give due respect to others. They also have a good judgement of relationships that are not healthy.
• Children turn out to be more empathetic, high-achieving, and emotionally aware adults.
• They maintain a strong bond with their parents, with healthy boundaries from both ends.

While gentle parenting seems to be the more popular and effective parenting style, according to research, it is not easy. It can be especially hard for those parents who have not been raised by this parenting style. Every parent’s natural response to different child-related situations is to repeat patterns from their own childhood. In these situations, pausing and reflecting on your reaction is helpful. Ask yourself:

• Is my reaction a trigger response to my childhood?
• Is it an auto-pilot response?
• If you were in your child’s place, how would you want your parents to respond?

Practicing self-awareness is key to gentle and respectful parenting. There is no right or wrong way to parent, and it is completely understandable when parents feel overwhelmed with all the information. There are many days when we, as parents, do not react in an ideal way. However, if we practice self-awareness, we will know that it is maybe time to take a few minutes for ourselves. In the end, every parent knows how to parent their child the best.

Here’s a great read on Retro Parenting Advice that still hold up today!

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What are night terrors? 

Night terrors occur when the child is in non-REM sleep. This is when they are transitioning from a deep stage of sleep to a lighter stage. It can be stressful for parents to experience their child struggling with night terrors. While one in six children usually experience them, every child may react to them differently. Night terrors are often confused with nightmares. Your child may be having night terrors if they:

• Wake up abruptly at night, usually within three hours of sleep.
• Wake up sweaty, with a rapid heart rate and breathing heavily.
• Appear to be unresponsive when spoken to, even though their eyes are open.
• Thrash around aggressively.
• May start sleepwalking.
• Calm down and go back to sleep eventually.
• Have no memory of the episode of their night terror in the morning.

Night terrors usually peak in children between the ages of three to six years. While it is a scary and exhausting experience for the parents, it is usually not known to cause any long-term psychological problems to the child. Most kids grow out of it after some time. And there are ways for helping your child with night terrors.

What causes night terrors in toddlers?

• A change in the child’s bedtime routine. It can also occur if you are travelling, and the child is sleeping in an unfamiliar space.
• Lack of sleep and overtiredness is one of the major reasons why kids may experience night terrors.
• If the child is going through a stressful change in their life. A few examples of this can be starting a new school, changing houses, or a loss of a loved one.
• It can be a reaction to a new medicine such as a cold medication.
• A loud noise can startle the child and trigger the night terror.
• The consumption of too much caffeine can also trigger an episode of night terror in toddlers.

How can parents help their child cope with their night terror episodes?

• It is natural for parents to get stressed and feel helpless watching their child look frightened at night. However, the best thing parents can do for their child at that time is to remain calm and wait it out. It is best to not try to wake the child up during an episode of their night terror. Only intervene if the child’s safety is at risk. Usually, the kids settle down in a few minutes and go back to sleep.
• Parents can reduce the risk of their child hurting themselves when they are thrashing away during an episode of night terror by eliminating any sharp objects around the room, especially any clutter around the bed that they might trip over.
• Trying to find out if the child is stressed about anything would help finding the root cause of the night terrors. Is the child starting a new class? Is there a new baby coming in the house? Is a grandparent or loved one sick? Talking about their feelings would help them release their stress. Parents can then guide them how to cope with that stress or discomfort. Reading a book related to the issue, or watching a relevant video together would validate their feelings and make them feel secure.
• Keeping a track of all the times the child experiences night terrors can be helpful for parents in figuring out the trigger. Does it happen when the child has a little more screen time close to bedtime? Does the child experience night terrors more often when his bedtime is delayed? If there is a pattern of a particular time that the child wakes up, a parent can plan to wake the child a few minutes before that time and offer a glass of water. This usually interrupts the state of sleep in which the night terror occurs.
• White noise is known to help children sleep better. Having a white noise machine in the child’s bedroom throughout the night would prevent the child from getting startled with any sudden noise.
• Having a consistent and calm bedtime routine promotes a more peaceful sleep time for children. Dim lights, a warm bath, a comforting story, and some soft toys to cuddle the child, all play a role in calming their nervous system before the fall asleep.

If parents feel that the child is having prolonged episodes of night terrors, even after trying out everything, it is best to consult the child’s pediatrician. In some cases, doctors may advise medication. However, parents can take comfort in the fact that this phase too, shall pass.

For more sleep help, A Sleep Consultant’s Real Answers to Parents’ Top 10 Sleep Questions

The post Tips to Help Your Kids Manage Their Night Terrors appeared first on The Mabelhood.

If you are wondering whether your child is ready for this transition, it would help if you asked yourself:

• Is my child consistently trying to climb out of the crib?
• Is the crib getting too small or tight for my child?
• Is my child showing interest in a big kid bed?
• Do I need the crib for a new sibling?

  If you answered yes to these, it may be time to transition to a big bed!

Check out these five tips that can help make the process easier for both you and your child:  

1. Start preparing earlier. It is always a good idea to keep the child involved in the whole move process. Children find comfort in knowing what to expect. It would be helpful to start talking to your child about how sleeping in a big kid’s bed would feel. Shortlist the beds you like and let your child browse them and decide which one to buy. Picking out their favorite character’s bedsheet and pillowcases can excite the child to sleep in it. Picking up a date for the big move would also build excitement and prepare them for it.
2. Keep the bedtime routine the same as before. When your child is about to experience a big change, it is always helpful that all the other factors of their routine remain the same. It would make the whole process a little less overwhelming for them. Whether it is story time before bed, their usual night light, or the stuffy they sleep with, the child would find comfort in all those familiar things. Making a big deal out of their big move would make them feel proud of themselves for achieving this milestone.
3. Keep a water bottle close to the bed for nighttime waking. Kids wake up a lot during the night for water, a scratchy throat, or simply some comfort sips. Having a water bottle nearby would help them stay in their room in case they need a drink. It also helps them stay in their room for longer in the morning when they wake up and want to just independently play in their room.
4. Be prepared for your child rolling over at night. During the initial days when the child is getting used to their new bed, they might roll over during the night. For this reason, lower toddler beds are more useful. Having some floor cushions beside the bed would lessen the impact of the fall. It is okay if you find them sleeping on the floor the next morning. They will eventually get the hang of it. Child proofing the kids’ room would help in ensuring that the child remains safe in case he rolls over. Having a video and sound monitor in the room is a great help for parents to keep a track of their child.
5. Start the bedtime earlier than their usual time. For at least a month, it would be helpful to start their bedtime routine and getting them in bed around half an hour earlier than their usual bedtime. This is because the child might want to play in their room a bit or take longer to fall asleep initially. This would help avoid morning crankiness due to lack of sleep.

Moving to a toddler bed gives the child a sense of freedom. Letting them explore their room and their toys inside their room during bedtime and after they wake up in the morning would help encourage them to play independently. Gradually, they will find their way around, and start sleeping without getting distracted. Know that you will get through this too, like always! The key is to be consistent. Happy transitioning, you got this!

For A Sleep Consultant’s Answers to Parents’ Top 10 Sleep Questions check this out!

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Having two toddlers of my own, I used to find my kitchen closet full of different kinds of bottles, struggling to find the perfect one for each of them individually. While many of the bottles were brutally rejected by them, we eventually found a good fit for their respective needs. To help other moms going through a similar struggle, here are 5 things to consider when choosing a water bottle for kids this summer.

The Opening and Closing Style of the Lid: 

Bottles come with different ways to open the lid, and you would not want your child to avoid drinking water because opening it is a struggle for them. My younger daughter has low muscle tone and struggles a little with her fine motor skills, so I noticed that bottles with a bigger, softer and clickable push button to open the lid of the bottle works better for her.  

Bottles that require her to pull down the lever result in her getting frustrated. Something like the Thermos Funtainer Bottle works better for her than something like the Yeti Rambler Jr., only for this reason.

The Thermos Funtainer is easy to use, as she can easily close it when she is done. It produces a snapping sound upon closing that signals her that it’s securely closed to avoid leaking in her bag.   

The Material of the Bottle: 

My elder daughter, who is six years old, prefers using the Yeti over Thermos because she likes her drinks very cold. The Yeti bottles have double-walled vacuum insulation that helps keep the water cold throughout the day.  

The sturdy material has been working for us well because my daughter tends to drop her bottle a lot and has even cracked some when dropped hard. The Yeti Rambler Jr., however, has withstood many great falls without so much as a scratch!

Straw/ Sport Top/Wide-Mouthed:

My daughters’ pediatrician recommended encouraging her to use the straw to help her with her oral muscles. Therefore, she is much more comfortable now with drinking from straw bottles, over sport tops or wide-mouthed bottles. 

The water from the wide-mouthed bottle almost always spills on her while drinking, so a straw has always worked better for us. While choosing a bottle for your child, make sure that you check that they are comfortable with the kind of top it has. Some bottles require the child to pull on the straw very hard for the bottle to extract water, which can result in frustration, so that a wide-mouthed bottle might suit them better, like the CamelBak Chute Mag. However, these types of bottles only work well for children comfortable with water flow from the wide mouth.  

It is also important to check the material of the bottle’s straw before purchasing it. Some kids mindlessly chew on the silicone or plastic straw and can completely bite it off. The hard spout, therefore, worked better for this. 

The Size and Weight of the Bottle: 

As parents, we often think that the more water, the better! However, bigger bottles are often difficult to carry for children. They are difficult to attach to the side of their bag, resulting in them tripping over (I’ve seen it happen many times!) 

Finding a lightweight bottle with an optimum amount of water is a struggle. However, if you have a child who drinks a lot of water throughout the day, it is worth checking out the Takeya Actives Kids Insulated water bottle. The stainless-steel bottle comes in 12- and 14-ounce sizes, which is a little more than what most other water bottles hold and is also easy to manage by the children. 

How Easy It Is To Clean The Bottles:

A significant thing to look out for when purchasing a water bottle for your child is how easy it is to keep it clean. Bottles such as the Yeti Rambler Jr., Camelbak Eddy Kids Bottle and Thermos Funtainer Bottle are dishwasher safe, and their parts can easily be pulled apart to clean them. 

However, the Takeya Actives Kids water bottle is not dishwasher safe, so this might be a pain for some families.  

With so many options and various products available in the market, choosing the right bottle for your child can get overwhelming. 

However, keeping their personality and habits in mind while shopping will help reduce the risk of picking up the wrong one and avoid costly repurchases. It also helps to make your child practice drinking from the bottle at home so they are comfortable with it when they have to use it alone. Every child has different needs, and you will surely be able to find the one that checks off all their requirements.  

Don’t forget to label all your water bottles! Mabel’s Labels are all waterproof and dishwasher safe. They’ll help avoid lost bottles and the repurchases you’ve worked so hard to avoid. Plus, they come in several shapes, sizes and designs to suit your kids! 

Are you prepping for summer camp season? Check out this list of everything you’ll need! 

The post 5 things to consider when choosing a water bottle for kids. appeared first on The Mabelhood.

In my opinion, millennials carry a heavier parenting burden than the previous generation because they are the first generation trying to break the cycle. We are the first generation that must deal with an abundance of information about how to raise children, making us question how we were raised and form our individualized parenting style.

We are the generation of social media. We are more self-aware and realize the importance of mental health and how our children’s formative years will impact their future relationships. Therefore, comparing our parenting style with our parents’ is natural. However, our children are growing up in a very different time than ours, and consequently, we feel we have no choice but to make some different choices.

What makes our jobs as parents harder is that we will often find that our first natural reaction to our child’s meltdown might exactly be the same as what our parents’ reaction to our meltdown had been. However, the cycle breakers would continue trying to reevaluate their reactions in their head and deal with them differently.

When I see my daughters, I see so much of myself in them. I also see how they are so much more. When I hear my six-year-old telling me how she feels irritated and anxious when I keep asking her to hurry up during school mornings, my instant reaction is to tell her to deal with it and do better because we need to reach the school on time. However, with practice and more self-awareness, I realize that it is refreshing to see my child understanding and expressing her emotions better than I ever could at that age. So, I reevaluate my reaction in my head, validate her feelings by telling her how I would feel the same in her situation, and discuss how we can try waking up a few minutes earlier next time so that our mornings do not feel rushed.

A therapist once gave me a tip, which has helped me immensely in trying to raise my children differently from our parent’s generation. She told me that our reactions to our children are often triggered by our childhood, which comes out when we become parents. For example, do you find yourself getting upset when your child screams? If yes, think about how your parent reacted to you or your siblings when they screamed. Were you punished or scolded for raising your voice? Think about how you as a child felt when your parents reacted that way. This exercise has helped me discover my childhood traumas and view situations from a different perspective.

Breaking the cycle that has been running for generations is hard work, and stressful. I applaud every parent that is trying every day to raise more empathetic, authentic, inclusive, opinionated, and self-loving kids. There is no right way to parent, and no childhood can be perfect. What matters at the end of the day is your connection with your child and how loved they feel for being exactly how they are. You are doing an amazing job, and your children are lucky to have you.

Click here for ways grandparents can have a positive effect on child development.

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