Reading Readiness

Your precious little one will problably be sitting in the high chair for meals from around 6 months of age.

At the end of each meal have a short "reading" time. Simply wipe down the tray and give your child a board or plastic book.

Yes, at first your child will eat it, turn it round and round, or throw it on the floor.

However, if you also read at this time, your child will begin to mimic your model. Have the microwave or other timer signal when reading time is over.

If you are calm and consistent, you can have 10 - 20 minutes of silent reading time at the end of each meal by the time your child is two years old.

You will also be developing in your child a life long love of reading, and have teens who adore books.

Choosey Choices

Jimmy gets up as soon as he awakes. He watches TV, wanders through the house, asks (and receives) cornflakes after mum serves weetbix, watches TV, wanders inside and out, watches TV, throws a few things in the toilet, watches TV, plays with mums make-up, watches TV, and asks (and receives) triangle sandwiches for lunch after mum serves square sandwiches. Then mum says it is nap time. What does Jimmy say?

Jonny gets up at 7 am when a song plays. He eats the weetbix he is served for breakfast, he plays in his room until his music tape stops, then watches TV at the usual daily time, then enjoys special play with mum, then has outside time until he is asked to come inside for the square sandwiches (he did ask for triangles but was politely refused). Then mum says it is nap time. What does Jonny say?

Someone is in charge in your house.
Is it you or your toddler?
Who does your toddler think is in charge in your house?
If you are having huge 'battles' in your toddlers day,
ask yourself - who is making the choices all day every day?