The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block 2-Book Bundle pdfdrive com

Tips for Special Time:
• Don’t do it right before naps or bedtime. It’s too fun and
exciting.
• Don’t think of special time as a replacement for time you
currently spend together. It’s a bite-size time-in that’s offered
in addition to the usual attention you give.
• Don’t punish your child by taking away special time. In fact,
special time can be a big help to get you and your toddler back
on track if the two of you are having a rough day.
• Don’t allow interruptions. Turn off your beeper and the phone
if possible.
“Rituals” Make Routines Even More Fun
You can make routines even more fun by adding some little rituals
to them. Rituals are small but very specific actions that add a dash
of extra sparkle to your routines (like ornaments on a Christmas
tree).
Here are a few rituals you might try:
• Bedtime: Sing a special song each night at bedtime.
• Dinner: Ring a bell or chime before you say grace.
• Car ride: Play the same song every time you enter the car.
• Opening the garage: Let your child say a “magic word” before
you press the remote. (“Open sesame!”)
• Getting dressed: Each night, put out the next day’s clothes in

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the shape of a person.
A Daily Routine Your Kid Can Cuddle: Loveys
Linus has his blanket; Calvin has his tiger, Hobbes; Christopher Robin
loves his teddy, Winnie-the-Pooh; and your child probably has his own
lovey. Think of a lovey as a little “routine” your child can cuddle every
day.
I’ve seen kids cling to diapers, silk scarves, wigs, and all sorts of toys.
For years, my little patient Alex was “hooked” on sleeping with his
Captain Hook’s hook!
To some parents, cuddlies seem “babyish.” But actually they are
stepping-stones to maturity and independence. They help kids deal with
stress (illness, trips, scary situations, etc.). And they give kids the
courage to take baby steps from their moms and dads into the great big
world. (That’s why they’re called “transitional objects.”)