My Baby and More Parent Coaching and Educational Services Because Kids don't come with Instructions!
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2. Peace of Mind: How many times has “duty called”, yet you did not know how you were going to manage
your packages and your toddler in a germ filled public restroom stall? You could wait until you get home or
pull out your carrier and be "relieved" that your drive home is comfortable instead of hurried. With your
hands free to get down to business, and when you are wearing your toddler, they are not able to pick up
dirty toilet paper off the bathroom floor or play with the germy lock in the stall. Yes, this sounds extreme, but
desperate times call for desperate measures!
3. Cure the “Clingies”: Toddlerhood is a bewildering time in a child’s life. Throughout their day they
struggle between being a baby and being a big kid. When it all gets to be too much and they need to
recharge, they tend to latch on to us like static cling. One of the best ways to cure the “clingies” is to wear
your toddler for an extended period of time during the day. This extra closeness, nurturing, and security will
refuel your child, and truly encourage him to be more confident and independent.
4. Taming Tantrums: Another side effect of this bewildering time called “Toddlerhood” is the dreaded
tantrum. They always seem to rear their ugly heads just as you enter the department or grocery store. Even
Dr. Sears, in his article, "13 Ways to Encourage Toddler Good Behavior”, recommends you “Use wisdom
when shopping” and “Take your babysling along”. When a child feels tired or overwhelmed they are prone to
having meltdowns. Even in the chaotic environment of a shopping center, when you wear your toddler, they
can rest, and feel secure and relaxed, which always tames the tantrum beast.
These are only some of the many benefits of wearing an “older baby”. For me, the best benefit of all, was
when I was recently wearing my “don’t-you-even-think-of-putting-me-down-let-alone-stop-bouncing-me"
newborn. My two year old came up to me and said, “Up, Mama! Please!” If I was not a babywearing Mama, I
would never have been able to hold (on my back) and rock my “high needs” newborn, while still getting
necessary cuddle time with my toddler. Yes, I was wearing them both- but that topic is for another article!
About the Author - Mother, early childhood educator, parent counselor, and author, Colleen Newman is degreed in Early Childhood Education
and Psychology. She spent several years teaching preschoolers before the birth of her first child. As a new mother, Newman enjoyed
breastfeeding and taking care of her son so much that she decided that she wanted to share her love for children and her natural parenting
finesse with other parents. My Baby and More Parent Coaching and Educational Services, a home-based business started by Newman, was
created in 2005. My Baby and More provides parents with the education and support of positive parenting and natural parenting methods such
as breastfeeding, babywearing, and attachment parenting through one-on-one phone, email, in-home and office consultations, seminars, and
classes. Newman is also a Breastfeeding Counselor for WIC and holds a certificate as a Certified Happiest Baby Educator from Dr. Harvey
Karp’s Happiest Baby Program. Her work has been featured in several publications including the Woman to Woman Virtual Online Magazine as
the Education Columnist, Healthy Kids Snacks.com, and The Parent Station.com as their Parenting Expert. Newman loves spending time with
her husband, John, while they have fun raising their two children, Wes (3) and Claire (1).
© Copyright 2005 My Baby and More All Rights Reserved.
Babywearing, Not Just For Babies By: Colleen Newman
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Babywearing has been around for hundreds of years, but it is only now making its
way into "mainstream" households across the United States. Carrier choices have
gone from the standard backpacks and Baby Bjorn’s, to the more stylish and
versatile Ring Slings, Mei Tais, Pouches, and more! When we think of
babywearing, we envision tiny little nurslings snuggled up in a fetal position close
to their Mama or Daddy’s heart; but Babywearing is not just for babies.
Our amazing little babies quickly grow into curious and rambunctious toddlers. The
next thing you know they are running away from you; touching and exploring their
world around them with fervor and enthusiasm. This is an exciting time in both a
parent and child’s life, but sometimes a little respite is in order. Here are just a few
of the many benefits to “wearing” your toddler:
"Wearing Two" Colleen with her infant and toddler.
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1. Safety First: When you put your child in a carrier you know exactly where she
is. Getting from the car, through the parking lot, and into a store suddenly
becomes a safe and pleasant experience. Instead of struggling to hold her hand or
prevent her from wriggling away, she is close to you and safe in your arms. Instead
of worrying that an unsuspecting driver may not see your little one dart across the
parking lot, you can calmly walk towards the store as you talk about the colors of
the cars that pass you by.
Disclaimer: All material provided at MyBabyandMore.com is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult with your Healthcare Provider if you have any questions and before applying any recommendations found on this site.
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© Copyright 2006 My Baby and More. All Rights Reserved.