Kid Friendly Families

Jumping, jumping, jumping, bouncing, bouncing, bouncing

2009-11-28T03:28:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how toddlers just love to jump. Little tiny tots love to bounce in their jolly jumpers, older kids love to jump on beds and trampolines.
Their little faces shine with the sheer pleasure of jumping up and down in gay abandonment. They quickly learn how to push with their feet to jump and it doesn't take them long to learn how to stop the movement either. Controlling their efforts at jumping is one of the earliest things a fully fledged toddler can learn.
Did you consider how much you are contributing to your childs' health when you allow him to enjoy this activity safely?
Jumping and bouncing have many benefits for young children.
Firstly it improves his circulation thereby strengthening his heart muscles. This helps to contribute to good health in the future.
Secondly jumping and bouncing can strengthen legs and thighs. Certainly must help them as they grow and try out so many physical things later on.
Thirdly and most important in my book - it is FUN.
So go on mum provide this stimulation in whatever way you can. Just remember - safety first. If your little one loves to jump. You are helping him develop a strong heart and strong muscles while he just has fun.
For a little more on tthis topic you might like to check out

Parents Often Don’t Realize How Clever They Are.

Authoritarian Parenting - Blessing or Toxic?

2009-11-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Authoritarian parents. We have all met them and as a rule authoritarian parents genuinely love their children and want the best for them. At times though that feeling of love leads to the caring parent feeling that they must protect their offspring from harm and possible harm in many areas both real and imagined. That unfortunately can be where the right of the parent to be the authority in the home actually becomes toxic to the family.

Authoritarian parents in this instance often rule with a rod of iron with no leeway for the child to develop coping mechanisms of their own. The rule is the rule is the rule is the rule and no variation is permitted. They place huge lists of rules in the home to protect or teach. Some examples are:
Wake up time is 7:30a.m. not before and no later. This is often to teach structure and discipline in life. But who doesn't sometimes enjoy a lie in on holidays?
Homework must be done as soon as you arrive home - no shirking or delaying until later. The parent just probably wants the child to achieve to the best of his ability but it can cause resentment if he/she would like to play with friends or visitors for a while.
Chores must be accomplished by the method the parent uses when perhaps there are other ways to achieve the same goal. At times this is not so, but sometimes he may just have a great idea. However yielding to the suggestions of a child can sometimes appear threatening to the parent who fears losing control.
Authoritarian parents often require that a kid of say sixteen live by the same rules as he did when he was five. This often results in rage and family arguments ending with the teenager storming out and the parent feeling confused and helpless.
Unfortunately this type of parenting taken to this extent can only lead to the disaster I outlined. It is every parents' natural desire to protect their children. My thinking is that if we want to protect our children from all sorts of harm and influence on their behaviour, we need to teach them skills to cope with life and all the experiences it has to offer.
In the cases above rules are great but lets make sure we know when to bend them. It isn't wrong to teach self control (as in the principle of rising time); it isn't wrong to encourage our children to achieve academically (but there are times to say "off you go"), encouraging kids to do chores is certainly not wrong (but listen to ideas, assess them, and discuss the reasons for either accepting the idea or rejecting it) and most of all we all need to remember to adjust the boundaries for our children as they grow in age.
In short what we need to do is show respect to our children. They will respond to this in such a way as to show the same respect to us and will more than likely try harder in every respect. If you are an authoritarian parent may I encourage you to loosen up just a little and enjoy your children more. You will not be sorry.

The Magic of Kite Flying

2009-10-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

I've written about kites before but I can't resist doing it again.

We spend so much time talking about parenting styles and problematic behaviours that I thought it about time we just spent some time soaring away from it all.

Kites are often the answer to escaping from the world for a few short minutes or hours OR if you are really into it, a few fun days.

No matter how small or large, kites have a magic about them. A magic which seems to carry you away to places far above the world and all its woes.

That magical kite will dip and sway with the wind and stay afloat for as long as the gentle wind and the pull of the string allows. And with its gentle swooping and swaying, it seems that your own body relaxes and appears to become as weighless as the kite it holds.

As the body relaxes watching the kite, it seems the mind relaxes also. Try it and see. Walk away from a stressful situation and literally "go fly a kite." When you return the stressful situation will still be there but your mind should be clearer and more able to deal with it.

The magic of kite flying also frees you to dream again. As the kite soars above the world on a gentle breeze we can let our minds soar with it to dream dreams far beyond our reach. It is possible to build "castles in the air" and just for a short brief time reach for a higher goal.
Lets fill the air with flying fish and animals and have a good time.

For more practical information on kite flying head to weareforfun.wordpress.com

Possible Responses to Toxic Parenting

2009-10-22T01:09:00.000-07:00

We looked recently at toxic parents and some of the effects this type of parent can have on their children.

It was the purpose of that blog to look at the parent who finds himself or herself in that category. I believe that parents can fall into patterns which are the result of many things e.g. their own upbringing, various life experiences, wrong choices when faced with decisions to be made. What we often do not realize is that others (in this case our children), also bear the consequences of our choices.
What can an adult child do to stop the toxicity of their upbringing flowing on to their own family.

Step 1: Make a deliberate decision to stop it and stop it now.
Step 2: Seek counselling if this will help build resolve.
Step 3: If at all possible speak to the offending parent, reassure
them of your love and support.
Step 4: Also let them know that their behaviour has had a negative impact
on your life and that this will not be allowed to spill over into
your family.
Step 5: Ask them to seek counselling and help but also explain that you
will be forced to take action if the behaviour is not curbed.

Many times an adult who has endured this type of upbringing finds it necessary to divorce their parents in order to gain the freedom they need in order to live happy and fulfilled lives. This is a huge step and brings both positive and negative consequences. It is certainly an individual decision and not one to be taken lightly. If you possibly can I suggest you ask advice from those in a position to give it before taking such a radical step.

If you feel that your parenting style may be considered toxic, it is not too late. Your children may seem unruly or disrespectful but may simply be reacting. Help is available on the web. One such possible resource could be found below. It may or may not be what you are looking for:
www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/393260205

Toxic Parenting

2009-10-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

No one really wants to be a toxic parent do they?

The thought of the word conjures up pictures of great big yellow warning signs with "don't go here" written beneath them and images of the skull and crossbones above the wording. That is certainly not the image the majority of first time parents have when preparing to greet their little baby.

In fact we usually find ourselves reading everything we can about babies and parenting.

We actually resolve to be the parents sent from heaven. As a general rule we want to be like our own parents or better!

So what happens between the dream and the sometimes horrific reality? Why do some parents find themselves hurling abuse at their children, intimidating them, stealing their self worth or becoming indifferent to their needs? Why do some parents actually strike their children, hit out at them or even beat them until they are black and blue? Why do some even beat, rape or murder their own children? What could have gone wrong between conception and life?

Many times as parents we find ourselves turning into our own parents. We say and do the very things we grew up thinking we would never say or do to our own children. When all is said and done so many times we are the product of our upbringing. This can be the cause of our behaviour.

Sometimes addictions can also be the source of challenging parental behaviour. Alcohol or drug addiction can be so demanding that we find ourselves resenting the child because he/she is keeping us from getting that fix, or the cost of some genuine need for the child means there is no money for alcohol. At any rate the presence of a child means we are not free to answer the need of feeding that addiction. At times the sheer frustration of lifestyle is taken out on the child.
Sometimes sole parenting can be a factor also. The stress of working to support a family, of being both mother and father can cause physical and mental exhaustion which impacts on family life.

There are many factors which cause stress in our lives and so often the effects are passed on to our children. If you find that you are showing signs of becoming a toxic parent I beg you to get help now before this becomes a pattern.

If you are a parent with addiction problems there are many agencies willing to help you, one which springs to mind is Alcoholics Anonymous but many churches also offer help. If anger and resentment are becoming a problem please seek counselling. A quick check of your phone book will yield results for your area, while you are on the net why not "ask google"? Even you are unsure what to do why not ask a trusted friend who may be able to help. There is shame and guilt in hurting a child, but there is no shame in admitting you may need help.

While you are doing this I urge you to spend time with your precious little person. Giving them your time even just to colour in with them before tea will mean far more than any of us realize.

If you would like some suggestions on spending time with your children check out
http://weareforfun.com

Your Kids Need You

2009-09-25T04:21:00.000-07:00

It's time to act, your kids need you.

In so many ways kids are displaying anger and disrespect every day. Now this does not apply to all kids but go to your local shopping centre. You will find many school age children who are not at school, and who spend their days smoking and swearing until it is time to go home. Occasionally a physical fight will break out and may even involve security or police.

These kids seem angry and unhappy. Their lives are out of control, they seem to have no goals, no dreams, no standards. There seems to be no hope or joy in their lives. It would be a fairly strange parent who was not concerned at the way their children are living their lives.

It seems that we need to regain control. These kids need to know that they count and that they are loved and wanted. How do we do that you ask?

I suggest that we begin in the home. It is here that kids need to know that they belong and that they have some responsibility within the family. Putting things back into perspective may take time and patience. I will not attempt to do that here.

Perhaps the starting block for this would be just to listen to your teen. Set aside some quiet area, serve up some coke and ice cream and just listen. Your questions need to be open ones such as "how do you feel about . . ." and listen to the answer. I suggest that you keep the conversation at the conversational level. Even if you disagree with his/her opinion the purpose of this is to finally have a conversation with your teen. Then gently guide them to see your point of view.

Starting at this neutral level and accepting the answers to their questions even if you do present another view, does say "I value you and your opinion," People who feel accepted, who enjoy being with you, will eventually start changing their attitudes. It will be a long hard road but hey, your kids need you. It is at least worth a try.

For some other ideas to regain order in the home you might like to try this:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/393260205

Go for it mum and dad get your family back. Your kids need you!

A Home Without a Teddy Bear . . .

2009-09-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Who hasn't had at least one teddy bear in their lifetime? My mother received her first bear as an adult not long after her first grandchild was born. It was then that we found out that our mother did not receive toys as a child even at Christmas time. No wonder she went overboard and surrounded us with toys each year! Her bear joined the Pierott doll on her bed. She loved looking at them both daily.

Teddy bears are ageless. Young children and babies love them. Grandmas love them and so do grown men i suspect. Teddy bears appear in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours. Many people collect bears such as Steiff bears but there are other wonderful collector brands also. Personally my collection of bears does not hold these. I collect only bears which appeal to me, or that wonderful people have given me through the years. These bring back memories of places, events and special times in my life.

Teddy bears are faithful. When the world seemed to be closing in on us as children, when perhaps mum and dad where unavailable, who did we turn to? Our good, faithful teddy bear who was always there to listen to our woes and provide a soft furry body to cuddle and squeeze. Teddy didn't even mind our tears dripping on his warm body. Nor did he mind when as toddlers, we picked him up by the paw or arm and carried him around.

Teddy bears are a symbol of love. So many times ardent young lovers present their new love with a cuddly teddy as a symbol of their love. These bears are usually red or white - commonly colours associated with love. Personally I still like to receive these from my husband particularly if they are accompanied by chocolate. =)

There are total shops devoted entirely to teddy bears in all shapes and sizes. Teddy that sing and dance. Teddies that smell of lavender or rosemary. Teddies dressed in all sorts of clothes and designer gowns. Even teddies made of pottery or pewter.

With this in mind I believe that no home should be without at least one teddy bear. Come to think of it perhaps at least two so they won't be lonely. Everyone needs something to hug. You can buy a teddy almost anywhere today. One of my favourites can be found at www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/products. She is cute, nostalgic and just ought to live in most loungerooms I think.

A home without a teddy bear would seem to me to be a lonesome place indeed.

Do Children Rule the Purse Strings

2009-09-04T02:47:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that over the last few years advertising has been directed toward children?

I am not talking about toys particularly. Although this is very definitely the case. What I am thinking about though is almost anything from cars to telephones, to ipods, to fast foods and computers.

If we were to seriously think about this it would perhaps be true to say that kids rule the purse strings! Is it right or ethical for advertisers to conduct their campaigns in this way?

In many cases, particularly as Christmas grows closer, the child or young person sees something and they want it even though there is nothing wrong with what they have. Good advertising is geared to make you want to own something no matter what. The flaw here is that children are not yet wired to understand that they may not need or may not be able to afford to buy the product yet. All they know is that "everyone has one" and "I need to have one, or I won't have many friends." This is certainly not the intention of the advertiser but it happens none the less.

Advertising of this form also gives power to the child. When choosing a family car for instance the child will say something like "let's get a four wheel drive." When all you really need is a small sedan. Your wonderful smaller person will go on and on until quite often the larger car is bought because of the perceived social standing of the child. Suddenly so much of what we buy is dictated by the child who watches the advertisements on t.v. and sees them on the computer. Who rules the purse strings in the house now?

In the area of toys, games, mobile phones and the like, children rule supreme. They want (need) an ipod, a new mobile because a new one just came out and "Cindy" has one, a new computer because the programming is so much better and on and on it goes. He or she becomes almost insatiable in their demands and perceived needs.

I suggest we take back control of our families. I for one look at advertising in a totally different way. If the advertising is aimed directly at the child I mentally switch off. Toy shops can be the exception as it is sometimes nice to see what interests the younger generation and supply that need where possible. However in general I believe it is the parent who knows best what games and toys are suitable for their family. For the most part then, it is the adult who chooses and not the child.

Whether it is right or morally ethical to advertise in this way is probably debatable since kids do have money to spend these days. Perhaps it would be wiser though to help children learn to look at advertising in the correct light. We need to teach them how to wisely use their money and to set goals to earn more if they need it for more purchases. Teach them to make lists of all they things they need because they see it advertised, then list the benefits of having it, the cost of ownership of the item etc. That way they learn to set goals, budget their money and make wise choices. If children rule the purse strings lets teach them how to do it wisely!
GrandmaP

Benefits of Spy Gadgets in Childs Play

2009-08-27T17:50:00.000-07:00

Kids have many spy gadgets these days from listening devices that let them hear on the other side of a wall to tiny recording devices hidden on such things as key rings and pens.

These toys encourage the kids to imagine themselves as ace detectives who are hired to follow people who have committed various wrongdoings, or to prove the innocence of their hirer. Spy toys also encourage our children to imagine themselves as famous spies traveling all over the world to save their fellow man from total extinction at the hands of some inherently evil arch enemy.

Some may deplore the use of such toys believing that they encourage violence in children and these people do have a valid argument in some respect. However I also feel that such imaginative play helps to develop good attributes in children.

In order to fight wrongdoing we must first be able to define and understand what we are fighting against. Now I am not suggesting that we subject our children to a grilling on what they are fighting for. Such a method would take away the fun they are having. Is it wrong though to ask the children to tell you about the game they were playing today? Then it would be a normal part of conversation to ask what the enemy did or was going to do. Not only are you encouraging your child to think, you are also getting to know the child better and to understand his/her thinking patterns. This knowledge will help you to guide your child toward moral maturity as they grow.

Playing games in which they see themselves as rescuing their fellow man from various dangers and evils also encourages our children to care for others – especially those who perhaps are weaker in some way than ourselves. This type of play builds a caring mentality in our children. It encourages them to put the needs of others before their own wants and desires. Spy games of this sort build a strength of character which seems to be wanting in many ways today.

To top it off – the evil doer must always be brought to justice. This instills in children the premise that the judicial system deals with the results of crime. It is not up to the individual to dole out justice as he/she sees fit. An understanding of this concept will help them grow into responsible citizens with a sense of the worth of all individuals in society.

A by product of all this is the fact that our children also subconsciously learn the correct, socially responsible way to use such tools without breaking into the privacy of friends and family.

Spy gadgets are great toys for kids. Most toy stores do have a range. For a look online you can go to www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/grandmas-latest-and-best-deals-and-offers.

Spy pens and the like may not be for everyone but I wish all parents well as you work to provide the right tools to help your children grow into mature, responsible adults.

Teaching with the Moses Reversible Doll

2009-08-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself whiling away the time by telling silly stories to your children? People often do this on long trips and the stories get more and more outlandish and silly as they get longer. Stories like this often end up with everyone rolling around laughing. Personally I tend to write silly stories when waiting for something on a chat line. It amuses me and often makes the problem a little easier to bear.

Story telling is an art that should not be allowed to die out. Using teaching aids when telling a story even at home makes the story so much more vibrant and easy to remember. We use these aids such as flannelgraph, picture books, video etc to make sure that the listener understands the point we are trying to make in our story.

Recently I have found it relatively easy to use reversible dolls in this way. They are a cool resource because once the story is told the children can also use the doll to tell the same story themselves. They are also easy to pop into a bag on the way out the door and then can be used at any given time e.g. while waiting for a bus or on the train. Below is my attempt at using a Moses doll to tell his story in a nutshell:

Some suggested questions if you are actually teaching using this doll. You can always vary the questions to suit the doll you are using of course.

What does the crown remind you of? (She was a princess)
What does the blue colour on her dress remind you of? (The water)
What do these flowers remind you of? (The reeds)
What does this stick remind you of? (Parting the sea)
What do these grey things remind you of? (The stones God gave Moses)
What was written on the stones? (Gods' special rules)

You can purchase reversible dolls in most larger specialised toy retailers or you can get them here:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/312738205

Visions of Sugar Plums

2009-08-08T04:10:00.000-07:00

We have all heard the saying "visions of sugar plums dancing in her head" at some time or another. I think it means that someone was daydreaming.
My visions are not of "sugar plums" but of kites. Kite flying seems to be such a fun thing to do. Most of the time you would not realize that it was exercise in any form.
There are so many kites available now. Butterflies, dragons, soccer uniforms (it is true I tell you), planes, birds to name a few. There are even a few different pirate ships which are kites. They are brilliant. Forget the kids, I want this one:

Exercise is Not a Four Letter Word

2009-08-01T01:14:00.000-07:00

Well as I promised this blog is here to show that exercise is not a four letter word and is therefore not something to be avoided. Rather we need to embrace it and make it a habitual part of our lives. Honestly though how do we add yet another thing to our daily routine and still find time for the kids? I have come up with three easy ways to accomplish this. It will mean changes to our routine but will not demand more time.

No 1. Go for a push bike ride with the family - its a no brainer right? Instead of watching the kids ride their bikes on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon why not hop on yours and go with them? You will get the exercise you need and the kids will love being with you. You might even shock them when they realize that you can actually ride a bike. They might even enjoy giving you a race. The added side benefit, exercise aside, is that you can check on their road safety skills at the same time.

No 2. Go fly a kite. I have often been told to do this LOL. Seriously though this is a great family fun thing to do and it gives exercise as well. Just getting the kite up at all can be a physical feat on its own and can require lots of running. Not to mention chasing the string if it gets too high as the kids hold it. Kite flying is fun because it is possible for physically handicapped people to take part also. You can make your own kite, buy one at almost any toy store or you can get one here if you like:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/373424215

No 3 Try some old fashioned but ever popular games at home. Hopscotch is still great fun. The kids can beat me at this one. Jumping on one foot is proving a little more difficult these days. Try it yourself, the worst that can happen is that someone gets a laugh!
What about egg and spoon and sack races every one enjoys them and it can be a real family bonding time. In this area there is also the trampoline and the totem tennis set. All great fun and great exercise too.

So there you have it. Hope you enjoy putting any of these into practice or thinking up your own ideas.

How to Delay your new exercise programme for at least 3 weeks

2009-07-27T03:09:00.000-07:00

I am over hearing all about exercise and how good it is for you. So join me in a tongue in cheek look at a new phenomenom I am going to start, its called "exercise avoidance." All teddy bears and couch potatoes will understand I am sure.
This is a three week plan for delaying the inevitable. Lets see . . .

Week One - Make the Decision to Start a Family Exercise Programme
You should be commended for even thinking about it! Now you need to embark on a serious fact finding mission. Should we invest in a home gym? How much can we afford to pay for one? What is the best equipment to put in the gym? Will it be versatile enough for the whole family to use? Have we got enough room for exercise equipment? How can we organize things so that we get the best results from using it?

Week Two - Go Shopping
You are going to need the key card for this. After all if we are going to exercise then we need to look the part. Everyone in the family will be taking part in this exercise programme so everyone will need the right outfit. Choose carefully here because all the outfits will need to last a while.
To please everyone will take at least a week if you are anything like the shopper I am.

Week Three - Plan the Programme
Any exercise regime takes planning and there will be a lot of planning in this one. Each member of the family needs to have their own individual programme and a way to chart it. More decisions here - will the exercise be done on an individual basis whenever each family member has time, or will this programme be family oriented and done at certain times during the week when the family is together? You might need quite some time to work all this out. Whatever you decide make sure that the family discusses their progress together over a meal or coffee or whatever suits. After all the whole family will benefit when you start!
What do you think of my "exercise avoidance scheme"? It ought to work for three weeks at least. Look out for the next blog in a few days. It will show us that "exercise is not a four letter word!"

If you want to start researching for home gym equipment try this:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/grandmas-latest-and-best-deals-and-offers
To your continued good health,
GrandmaP

Four Practical Steps to De-stressing at Home

2009-07-21T01:24:00.000-07:00

Happy parents make happy homes.

While the statement might be true the reality is that it is sometimes hard to do!

The phone rings, the baby wakes up and screams, the doorbell rings and little Johny spills drink all over the carpet and it all happens at once just as your partner arrives home. At times like this it is not easy to be happy. What we want to do is hand over the home to the poor unfortunate partner who pulls up in the driveway and hide in the bedroom with a good book. Not a solution that is usually possible - certainly not on a regular basis anyway.

So, I propose a few more practical steps to de-stress a stressful situation at home:

Try not to answer the phone if it rings when baby wakes. Most of us have some sort of message taking device on the phone and anyway if it is urgent believe me they will call back. Apart from natural curiosity you will feel a little less stressed.
Answer the door or whoever it is will keep ringing and drive you nuts. Either usher them in and ask them to wait while you get the baby or leave them waiting at the door with a polite explanation. Almost everyone is happy to put a babys needs before their own.
As for little Johnny - an accident is an accident. With all that noise he probably got a fright! Ask him to get a cloth and clean it up. He can't make matters much worse (I hope) and at least he is trying to help.
And that partner that just arrived home? Well meeting him at the door and asking for a cuddle can't hurt can it? That way it might be noticed that you are feeling a little frazzled and in need of loving. There might even be an offer of help if things go well!

So there you have it four very simple steps to sorting out a nerve frazzling but all too common home situation. These pointers seem all too simple but at times of sudden stress it is all too easy to overlook them. Handling these unexpected "mintie moments" in a positive way should make for happy parents and happy homes in one area at least.

Can Adults Play Too?

2009-07-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

As adults it is our great delight to buy our children the toys that will please them or benefit them. Preferably we would like our purchases to do both.

Lately I have been wondering about adults and when we find time to play. It seems that often parents are working. When they do get home there are always so many things to do. Meals to cook, houses to clean, washing and ironing to be done. All of that without getting the kids to their various activities throughout the week and on the weekend.

Studies have shown that it is important for adults to take tactile breaks whenever we can. In our busy lifestyles we neglect sensory input and replace it with computers and television sets. If we work in offices it is a little difficult sometimes even to find grass to sit on in our lunch hour. Yet we need some sort of grounding.

Have you ever felt that your mind is elsewhere while you sit at your office desk? I know I experience this many times over in a given week, and I work from home. One suggestion I have recently been considering is the use of office toys.

When I take a mini break and finger a toy while mulling over the problem it seems the solution comes so much more easily. So my suggestion is that yes, adults can play too. We can't take an hour off work to go to the park but we can stop for a minute here and there during our day and play.

Taking these short, thinking breaks, will make us happier workers and happier workers are more productive workers. Well, in my opinion (for what that is worth) they are! If you are on the look out for an office toy you might like to check this out:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/345300203
Have a great day!

Exercise - an adventure

2009-07-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

There are times when it seems that we do not see what can be right in front of us. My parents used to say that "we can't see the wood for the trees." I am sure that they were more right than they knew.
Our modern way of life causes concern for our younger generation in many respects. We wonder about the sedentary lifestyles that our children lead. We try to encourage them to exercise and join sporting groups but more often than not they would rather play sport with a nintendo or play station at home.
Increased time spent at school and at home with home work means an even more sedentary lifestyle. Relaxation often means time on the computer chatting with friends or surfing the net. If not the computer then it is likely to be the television set and as parents we are as guilty of this as they are.
Easy access to take away foods and other foods high in saturated fats etc leads to weight gain and the possibility of diabetes at younger and younger ages.
Fresh air, good diet and exercise will certainly help to increase our childrens' chances of longer and happier lives.
So how do we encourage this exercise? Certainly not by calling it "exercise". The very thought of that word tires most children out. But what about making exercise a happening event. I suggest we make exercise an adventure.
Start by leaving books about star tennis players, golfers etc where they can be seen. Perhaps bring home some d.v.ds along the same lines and have you SEEN what kids can do with skateboards, surfboards and the new street boards? Kids skilled in these areas are nothing short of awesome. Accomplishing what they accomplish calls for fitness and stamina.
They do it voluntarily because they love their sport.
Cool. Perhaps investing in outdoor equipment is not such a bad idea. Some suggestions:
bikes, balls, cricket sets, badminton sets, golf clubs, streetboards. Hey even going outside with an armful of balloons can be fun!
If you are stuck for an idea why not check this out:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/345300203
Thanks for your company.

Parents, Providers, Puzzles

2009-06-29T00:45:00.000-07:00

It is a very puzzling thing when we think about the role of parents and providers and what they teach children through using puzzles. Sometimes I don't think that we parents give ourselves credit where it is due. We purchase puzzles for our children but do we really understand what we are teaching as they use them?
This matter of puzzles and their use is worth puzzling through, I think! So, what is the parents' role in helping our children master the skill necessary to complete a puzzle? Do we simply purchase a puzzle, plonk it on the floor next to junior and wonder why he does not attempt to do it? My grandparent mind has been puzzled in this respect for some time and here are some of the puzzles I have solved for myself:
Puzzle One: Do parents and providers encourage puzzle playing?
The answer is YES. It is our role to provide a puzzle suitable to our childs' age and ability. In this area we must also take into account the physical limitations of our children be that due to chronological development or physical impairment.
Puzzle Two: Should parents and providers choose puzzles which match the childrens' interest?
Again the answer is "yes". A child who loves animals is more likely to attempt an animal puzzle than she is to attempt one that pictures the Eiffel Tower.
Puzzle Three: Do we attempt to help them do the puzzle?
"Yes" again! It would not be wrong to show them how to turn the puzzle around and around in order to fit the right piece into the right place. They also need to learn how to position the pieces. Some of our children may have limited physical movement and will need help in placing pieces. It is not wrong to help but we must remember not to take over and "help" by finishing the puzzle for them. No one ever really mastered a skill totally just by watching someone else demonstrate it. Our aim is to enable the child to accomplish something new and satisfying NOT to display our own skills.
One thing did not take much puzzling through though! As we see our child achieve in the mastery of different levels, as they develop confidence in sensing the outcome of their puzzle, it is our great joy to encourage them on the way. Each new piece that is added can be rewarded by praise. The total finished product should be admired and the little person who completed the puzzle with or without help should be heaped with praise for their efforts. Perhaps I should have titled this post "Parents, Providers, Puzzles and Praise." After all who can get enough of that?
Anyway, if you would like to get your hands on a puzzle or two and get started with your own puzzling why not try this site?
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/345300203

Break the Cycle

2009-06-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

Jigsaw puzzles are comprised of individual pieces which when combined together correctly (with a little work) make a wonderful picture.

Families bear a similarity to jigsaws don't you think? We are a group of people who live in the same house yet increasingly live individual lives. Parents work something like eight hours a day plus anything up to a one and half hour commute each way. That makes for one tired parent! Kids have school, music lessons, sport, youth group. Some families may attend church together (not a bad thing) but it does not promote family time while sitting in a pew.

So how do we break the cycle of individualism? How do we even start to put the individual pieces of our family together in order to make that beautiful picture of our particular home?

We could start with that similarity I spoke of earlier. We could start putting the jigsaw of our family together by using jigsaw puzzles themselves. Jigsaws can provide positive family therapy and you can begin using them for no or low cost. A quick search of the internet will provide some free jigsaw puzzles but if you have younger children you might also like to look at the site below for some great puzzles:
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/345300203
These are funtastic puzzles available at the moment.

Once you have your puzzle then place it in an easily accessible place and start putting it together yourself. After a while the others will be attracted to what you are doing and will begin to join in the activity even if only for a few moments. Jigsaws are addictive so it won't be long before you find your pamily discussing the appropriate places for certain pieces and the basis for breaking the cycle in your family has begun. Of course if you have little children it is as easy as purchasing your puzzle and sitting with them to do it. Either way it is great fun.

So why not start breaking the cycle today? Go have some fun with a jigsaw!

Fun and Frivolity

2009-06-10T00:14:00.000-07:00

Amid all the stress which todays' society holds, the political correctness, the social correctness, financial insecurity, fear of job loss and all that that creates. I am still convinced that there must be time for a little fun and frivolity in our lives.
Often our children equate fun with expense. They like to visit theme parks (who doesn't?), go to the movies or game shops etc. These are all great things to do but cost money so most of us have to limit these to certain times and special events like birthdays, holidays and the like.
I am more and more becoming convinced that many of todays toys tend to be isolationist in their use. How many people can really play on the playstation, x box and nintendo type games. There is a limit while others watch. These are COOL games and we have them in our family.
When we are out together we like to take advantage of any impromptu thing we find in shopping centres like this:

We haven't got the equipment or stamina to pull this off in our home. We can still have a full scale, no holds barred family time at home. The younger children love to clap, jump and move to almost any music. They are no strangers to fun and frivolity in life. That is a good thing when I can't play a note. Music belongs in everyones' life I think. Follow this link for a little more fun with music:
weareforfun

Let the Good Times Roll. . .

2009-05-27T04:45:00.000-07:00

I have been looking over last weeks blog and have been giving much thought to all these challenges for which there is seemingly no quick fix. Lots of ideas and plans come to mind but sometimes we really overlook the obvious.
Where is the joy and music in life? When do we laugh, when do we dance, when do we just sing for no reason except the pure joy of life? What happened to "dance like no-one is watching, sing like no-one is listening, laugh like you've never laughed before and love like there will be no tomorrow?" Doom and gloom is everywhere. Teenage problems, global warming, wars, nuclear fears, fires, floods and so on are valid causes for concern. We do our best to cope with all this but hey LETS HAVE SOME FUN!
Lets put some music back in our lives and a spring in our step. Lets just take some time out and just enjoy our children. It seems to me that enjoying our partner and our children and grandchildren for that matter is a great way to communicate not with words but with something deeper and more meaningful. Perhaps they will all catch the love, warmth and sheer celebration of a few minutes of just plain living.
Go on do it! Let the good times roll. Put on a cd or a dvd and dance and prance around the room with gay abandon. Once the kids get over the initial shock of seeing you dance for no real reason. They will probably roll around the floor laughing. After that they might just dance with you. How fun would that be?
We do need to take life seriously but there is also surely a few minutes in each day when we can just have fun. There are lots of ways to start off an impromptu dance party at home. As I said cds, dvds will put instant music into life, so will musical instruments like guitars, drums, flutes and pianos just to name a few. There is a great little keyboard to be found at this site, so if you are thinking about getting something small and fun. Why not try this?
http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/page/345300203
Let your kids know you love them without saying a word. Just let the good times roll...

Where are your Kids?

2009-05-21T03:27:00.001-07:00

The actions of teenagers and younger in our area are of great concern to me and to all thinking and caring people everywhere.
In our area, as in so many others, kids as young as fourteen are roaming the street at late hours of the night drinking, smoking and I shudder to think what else. One parent I know was shocked to find that her child was not tucked up in bed as she thought. It just did not occur to her that there was any need to check! She is not the only one. Where are your kids tonight?
Our teens and pre-teens for that matter have to navigate a world we scarecely dream exists. Schoolyard bullying is rife, drugs and alcohol are freely available (they do not need to look far), morality is at an all time low. Need I go on? I could, because these things barely scratch the surface of the world our children live in. Also of real concern is the growing number of street kids.
Some might ask where are the parents? What are they doing? This type of questioning is valid but I wonder if it will really help these very unhappy and confused young people. The call must not be to look for who is to blame but it must be a call to action to help solve the problems so endemic in their society.
If we are to have a hope of fixing the problem in the short term, I suggest we start to listen to our kids. I mean really listen, not to the evergrowing list of things they want but to the confusion and fear surrounding their world.
More on this in coming blogs. But for now do you know, where are your kids tonight?

Five Steps to Reading to a Highly Energetic Child

2009-05-13T00:49:00.000-07:00

I believe it is possible to read to highly energetic children, it just takes a little work and preparation.

Step One: Choose a place to read.
This should be a quiet place with plenty of room if possible.
It should also be free from distractions e.g. the lounge room with the tv off.

Step Two: Choose a book.
When using this method I suggest a book with plenty of pictures and a good story line.
Try to find one with a repetitive word which appears at least once or twice on every page. Choose a different word for a different book. This is crucial if you want reading to be fun.

Step Three: Choose an activity to associate with the word.
For example each time you hear the word “nana” jump up and run to the table, come straight back and sit down to listen to the story.
Make sure that the activity is within your childs' physical ability and that it is an activity he or she would enjoy doing again and again. Choose a silly activity if you like. Anything is fine if it leads to enjoyable reading with your energetic kid.

Step Four: Ask him to come and sit down with you as you produce the book.
Oh and smile, we want to have fun. Then begin in a quiet, soft voice to read the book. At first you may need to prompt him to action by repeating the word each time it appears. He will soon get the idea and enjoy the activity associated with the book. Always stop as the word appears as if expecting an action. Sometimes plan to stop before the word so he can anticipate what come next e.g. “and then . . . (pause) NANA” and watch him go.

Step Five: Finish reading
Thank your little fellow for letting you have such a fun time with him.

I know that some children seem to have almost no attention span and you are unsure of where this may go. This method can be adapted in many ways for example you could decide that a time limit of five minutes will be the best for your little person. Another method might be to read only one or two pages a day. It doesn't really matter. However short the reading time remember to thank your child for spending time with you and having fun.
The aim of the game is to make reading fun for your highly energetic and active kid. If the “fun” aspect seems to be overtaking the reading and it is difficult to get your particular highly energetic child to return to the story, I suggest you slowly stand up and put the book away. If he promises to be still tell him that you are very sad that you can't continue now but you will try again tomorrow or whatever time is convenient to you.
Generally speaking most energetic kids respond to this and you will see the length of time he sits increasing and the number of pages you read growing. Before you know it your little wiggly worm is asking you to read to him. At this point you might even decide to put in:

Step Six: Decrease the number of times the word appears in a book.
This will increase his listening skills and his attention span but that is another blog entirely!
Seem it is possible to read to highly energetic kids. I hope you try this game and that you have fun with it. For more ideas on reading to children I suggest you go to:
http://weareforfun.wordpress.com/

2009-05-06T11:01:00.002-07:00

2009-05-06T11:01:00.001-07:00

2009-05-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

Do Books Interest Toddlers?

2009-05-06T03:25:00.000-07:00

It is an interesting question don't you think? After all toddlers don't really understand every word we way so what can they possibly interest them here?

Well for one thing they learn to listen. When we read books to them they feel secure as they cuddle up to listen to the story - short as it may be. They listen eagerly for each familiar word as we read the same story for the umpteenth time. Listening is the first step in learning the art of communication and good conversation skills. So read to your little person you are placing great groundwork into their future lives, in my opinion anyway!

But books are not all about reading. They are primarily about learning in many and varied forms. Toddlers like to have vinyl books to put in the bath and they really enjoy playing with them there. Tactile children love to feel the different textures of touch and feel books. Some kids really get a buzz out of pressing the noise button on their books. I have even found these particular books particularly great with children who have limited body movement, they seem to delight in pushing buttons. Even babies like to have books to "read". These mostly have doors to open or zippers to pull.

When a child learns to turn a particular page to get a required response he has learned not only to turn a page but also to figure out what he wants and then how to get it. Wow, he has learned the very basic steps to goal setting - recognizing what you want (e.g. sound) and turning to the required page.

So my answer, is yes, even toddlers are interested in books and can learn much from them. There are many cloth books which are suitable for giving to children. To find one such book why not go to:

http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/product/st15

The Questions Children Ask Grandparents

2009-04-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

Grandma what was it like in the olden days? Grandpa did you have cars when you were little?

These and many more like them beg to be answered and we love the happy little grimy faced person who climbed on our lap to ask them.

The answers to the questions children ask their grandparents provide a living link to family. They provide deep roots which help to stabilize identity. In todays society so many things change and parental figures come and go but grandma is always grandma and grandpa is always grandpa.

To us these wonderful little people are the pride and joy of our lives. From the time they enter the world we delight in their growth and in their antics. Watching them brings back memories of their mother or father and the things they did.

The questions that children ask us, their grandparents dig deeper though! They lead us back to our own past and the pleasure of our own childhood memories. We answer their questions and they run off to play but we are left with long ago forgotten friends and games and adventures long forgotten. What a delight.

The questions children ask grandparents are a golden thread which binds them to the past and to us. They should never be taken lightly but answered honestly always and with humour whenever possible.

If these questions children ask grandparents are so important in their lives why don't we try to answer them in a more keepable form? Scrapbooking provides a great opportunity to do just that both for our children and grandchildren. Diaries also help to give them snapshots into the past.

There are many other ways to answer these questions children often ask grandparents. For one site which offers a great book with just the right questions for you to fill in and answer go to:

http://www.grandmastoyshop.com.au/books