Sometimes You Need a Break

Grammy Bonnie and Grandson Robert Power Napping


Sometimes you just need a break. Whether a rest, a quiet time, or a nap, we all need to get our z-z-z-z's to function properly. Power napping can be a powerful tool.

 This was the night I had finished my holiday shopping with my daughter and everyone, including her son, was pretty pooped.

We stopped to get something to eat at Friendly's to celebrate and this is how Robert decided to do it. I decided it was a good idea and we got to share a little bonding time as well. The power of the human touch can work wonders, even miracles. Talking to your child in a soothing voice helps to calm emotions. Physical closeness and voice from the parent creates a sensory  'parent blanket' of touch and sound.

 When your child shows signs that he is ready to re-charge his batteries, plug in and see what he or she is trying to tell you. Then, stop what you're doing and join him. Remember, babies communicate by whining, crying, and body language, such as yawning and rubbing their eyes to let us know they are tired.  A tantrum can indicate a child is overtired and frustrated. Much of a baby's frustration comes from a communication language gap between parent and child.
Learning to tune in to your child's body language can be an effective tool for Mom and Baby. Sometimes all it takes is a little cat nap or a change of scenery to help everyone's energy level improve. That may be accomplished by walking, rocking, or cuddling together as you talk in low encouraging tones.

Being aware of a child's universal signs can be beneficial to mother and child. You  are also showing your baby that you are listening and you care about what she is trying to get across to you. Taking action right away strongly communicates a positive message to your child that you love him and care about what he or she is trying to tell you. Sometimes this involves a bit of trouble shooting, but keep trying and stay positive. Children at this age are egocentric, they are not out to give you a hard time, they are naturally focused on themsleves and that's the nature of a toddler. hang in there, communication gets better.
Some of the standard baby trouble possibilities to check... Hunger, diaper change needed, tired, bored, frustrated, sick.

Sleep, food, play, love...what else is there?

 Listen to your child and learn to communicate effectively while building a close bond with each other.

Good luck! Good Parenting!!

Bon :)