“The uncertainty of parenting can bring up feelings in us that range from frustration to terror” – Brene Brown
Parenting can feel like riding a roller coaster of emotions – and as your baby seeks more independence this can lead to moments of frustration for you both. You’ll find information about your baby’s growing autonomy in the app, along with suggestions to support you both as your baby becomes a toddler. But sometimes just thinking about how you view your baby’s actions can help reduce frustration.
Why ‘unconditional positive regard’ could be a good place to start (we’ll explain!)
Try this to help your baby learn how to get dressed and undressed
Some babies will sit still while you dress them (we haven’t met many of those babies – apparently, they do exist!). But as they develop more awareness of themselves and have experienced getting dressed a lot, your baby might be eager to help. At times this can be a source of frustration for them and you – they want to do things for themselves but don’t quite have the physical and cognitive skills to get dressed without help. And sometimes you just need them to be dressed quickly so you can go out!
We think we know what will help: backwards chaining and forwards chaining. Doesn't sound like it has anything to do with getting dressed, we know, but stick with us and we’ll explain!
Five things to do with a teddy bear
Teddy bears are one of the classic children’s toys that will never go out of style. Many children have a favourite bear that is by their side from the early days. As well as providing comfort, teddy bears can be lots of fun to play with!
Teddy bear’s picnic
Handy tips for dealing with separation anxiety
You may have experienced signs of separation anxiety from your baby. They might be upset and clingy when it's time to leave you; this struggle to say goodbye and separate is because of the close bond you've formed. Separation anxiety is a completely normal part of the journey of being a parent, but it doesn’t make it less upsetting or tricky to deal with. These three key tips should help.
This book is a classic for a reason, Each Peach Pear Plum, by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
The intricate and magical illustrations will capture the imaginations of both young and old, while the rhymes and repeated refrains will keep your child desperate to turn the page.
Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is a classic picture book. It is short, simple and sweet and makes the perfect bedtime story. Its beautiful illustrations are great for your baby who is beginning to focus on images on the page, observing the shapes, colours and details that interest them.
Foods to inspire your baby's senses
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunity for your baby to explore a variety of sights, smells, textures and flavours. If you are stuck in a rut with mealtimes, here are a few foods that you could try as part of meals or snacks.
Sweet potato
Everyday objects that can be used for building and construction
When it comes to building and construction, sometimes you can skip buying expensive toys and reach for some real-life objects instead that are just as fun.
Cups
Be patient with yourself – parenting is a learning experience
The pressure to be a perfect parent comes from many directions. It can be easy to think that you have to be an instant expert on everything to do with your baby, but each day of parenthood is an opportunity to learn and grow.
On those days when you’re feeling critical of your parenting skills, here are a few tips to reassure you.
Book recommendation: The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did by Philippa Perry.
Whether you’re interested in how to support your child’s feelings and emotions, curious about how your upbringing shaped who you are today, or want to support others with their parenting journey, this book is must-read.
Essentially, it’s about developing trusting and meaningful relationships with your children by supporting them through their feelings, behaviours and emotions.
