Helping Our Children With Stress
By Lisa Belkin
Every year the American Psychological Association takes our emotional temperature with its report titled Stress in America. This year, for the first time, children were also asked about their stress levels. The conclusion? Not only are our kids feeling it, we parents aren’t noticing.
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/11/05/helping-our-children-with-stress/?scp=7&sq=children&st=cse
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
LEGO Kids Fest in Hartford November 20-22
Coming to Hartford, Connecticut November 20-22, the LEGO KidsFest will be an energetic 3-day show filled with interactive, creative and educational activities for the whole family.
http://www.legokidsfest.com/index.htm
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
http://www.legokidsfest.com/index.htm
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Suggestions for Introducing the New Nanny to Your Children
I read this article from nanny.com and there are some good suggestions about easing the transition to choosing a new or first time nanny.
Introducing a New Nanny? Seven Steps for Ensuring a Smooth Transition
Introducing your child to a new nanny, whether this is your child’s first nanny or the new nanny will be taking the place of a previous caregiver, can be stressful for everyone involved. Even with the best planning, there are sure to be unexpected bumps along the road, but a little preparation goes a long way towards smoothing the transition. Following are seven suggestions that may help:
1. Acknowledge your child’s attachment to his previous caregiver: If your child had a strong bond with his or her previous nanny, understand that in order to bond with a new nanny, your child must come to terms with the loss of the previous caregiver. Explain the reasons for the transition. Acknowledge your child’s feelings toward his beloved nanny, and if possible, continue to maintain contact with her.
2. Keep your child in the loop: If your child is old enough, get her “buy in” on the new nanny by involving her in the selection process. Ask her what she loved most about the previous nanny, and look for candidates with those qualities. If appropriate, involve your child in interview process and ask for her opinions. Explain why you are choosing the candidate you ultimately select.
3. Give the new nanny a helping hand: Give her as much information as possible about your child. Let her know what your child valued most in his relationship with the previous nanny, and provide as much information as possible about your child’s likes, dislikes, fears, interests, favorite activities, and daily schedule.
4. Be consistent: Help your new nanny to maintain a consistent structure and set of expectations for your child. Children feel most secure and comfortable when they are held to a consistent standard of behavior, regardless of who is in charge. Be clear with the nanny about your child’s schedule for meals and naptimes, and your expectation that the schedule will be followed as closely as possible. Make sure the new nanny understands what foods are permissible for meals and which are saved for occasional treats, and the limits your family enforces on time spent watching television or using the computer.
5. Spend time together: Ease the transition by inviting the new nanny to visit and play a few times before she officially starts work. Not only will this help your child to get acquainted with the new nanny, but your child will develop trust in the nanny if she sees that you trust the nanny, too. Make sure you communicate this trust verbally and through your body language towards the nanny. Try visiting a few of your child’s favorite places together, or participating in a few of her favorite at-home activities.
6. Consider adjusting the schedule if needed: For some young children, maintaining a consistent daily schedule can help smooth transitions. Some children find it confusing to be in a nanny’s care occasionally – say three times a week for a full day – and are happier going for shorter periods Monday through Friday. If your work schedule permits it, you might want to consider shifting your hours if your child is having trouble adjusting to an inconsistent daily schedule.
7. Know how to say “goodbye”: Make “goodbyes” easier by finding the right time and place to say them. It may be easier for some children to say “goodbye” if they are outside, or getting ready to go for a walk, as this may give them a sense that they are the one leaving for a fun activity. Just make sure your child understands that you are leaving, too, either by getting into your car or being dressed for an outing, so that he’s not disappointed when he returns home to find you gone. Make goodbyes quick, and let your child know when you’ll be home.
http://www.nanny.com/newsletter_oct-09.php
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Introducing a New Nanny? Seven Steps for Ensuring a Smooth Transition
Introducing your child to a new nanny, whether this is your child’s first nanny or the new nanny will be taking the place of a previous caregiver, can be stressful for everyone involved. Even with the best planning, there are sure to be unexpected bumps along the road, but a little preparation goes a long way towards smoothing the transition. Following are seven suggestions that may help:
1. Acknowledge your child’s attachment to his previous caregiver: If your child had a strong bond with his or her previous nanny, understand that in order to bond with a new nanny, your child must come to terms with the loss of the previous caregiver. Explain the reasons for the transition. Acknowledge your child’s feelings toward his beloved nanny, and if possible, continue to maintain contact with her.
2. Keep your child in the loop: If your child is old enough, get her “buy in” on the new nanny by involving her in the selection process. Ask her what she loved most about the previous nanny, and look for candidates with those qualities. If appropriate, involve your child in interview process and ask for her opinions. Explain why you are choosing the candidate you ultimately select.
3. Give the new nanny a helping hand: Give her as much information as possible about your child. Let her know what your child valued most in his relationship with the previous nanny, and provide as much information as possible about your child’s likes, dislikes, fears, interests, favorite activities, and daily schedule.
4. Be consistent: Help your new nanny to maintain a consistent structure and set of expectations for your child. Children feel most secure and comfortable when they are held to a consistent standard of behavior, regardless of who is in charge. Be clear with the nanny about your child’s schedule for meals and naptimes, and your expectation that the schedule will be followed as closely as possible. Make sure the new nanny understands what foods are permissible for meals and which are saved for occasional treats, and the limits your family enforces on time spent watching television or using the computer.
5. Spend time together: Ease the transition by inviting the new nanny to visit and play a few times before she officially starts work. Not only will this help your child to get acquainted with the new nanny, but your child will develop trust in the nanny if she sees that you trust the nanny, too. Make sure you communicate this trust verbally and through your body language towards the nanny. Try visiting a few of your child’s favorite places together, or participating in a few of her favorite at-home activities.
6. Consider adjusting the schedule if needed: For some young children, maintaining a consistent daily schedule can help smooth transitions. Some children find it confusing to be in a nanny’s care occasionally – say three times a week for a full day – and are happier going for shorter periods Monday through Friday. If your work schedule permits it, you might want to consider shifting your hours if your child is having trouble adjusting to an inconsistent daily schedule.
7. Know how to say “goodbye”: Make “goodbyes” easier by finding the right time and place to say them. It may be easier for some children to say “goodbye” if they are outside, or getting ready to go for a walk, as this may give them a sense that they are the one leaving for a fun activity. Just make sure your child understands that you are leaving, too, either by getting into your car or being dressed for an outing, so that he’s not disappointed when he returns home to find you gone. Make goodbyes quick, and let your child know when you’ll be home.
http://www.nanny.com/newsletter_oct-09.php
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Advice for Dealing with Defiant Kindergartners
Defiance: Why it happens and what to do about it
by Karen Miles Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
Why kindergartners defy their parents
http://www.babycenter.com/0_defiance-why-it-happens-and-what-to-do-about-it_66564.bc
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
by Karen Miles Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
Why kindergartners defy their parents
http://www.babycenter.com/0_defiance-why-it-happens-and-what-to-do-about-it_66564.bc
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
When a Parent’s ‘I Love You’ Means ‘Do as I Say’
This article explores new research about "conditional parenting". I found it interesting and wanted to share it.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/15/health/15mind.html?em
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/15/health/15mind.html?em
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Children's Museums & Other Attractions for Family Fun in Connecticut
A list of local museums, performance arts centers and other attractions for the children in the Fairfield County and surrounding areas in CT. You may also want your nanny to visit some of these attractions with your children. Enjoy!
MUSEUMS/ATTRACTIONS
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, CT (860) 231-2824 http://www.thechildrensmuseumct.org/ A one-of-a-kind science and nature museum providing rich learning experiences through hands-on exhibits, over 100 live animals, digital planetarium shows, science demonstrations and a variety of educational programs. We feature the only science-based preschool in CT and the Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton.
COCO KEY WATER RESORT Holiday Inn, 3580 East Main St., Waterbury, CT (203) 706-1000 http://www.cocokeywaterresort.com/ A real Key Water adventure. From the thrilling Shark Slam, Gator Gush and Barracuda Blast water slides, to the Coral Reef Cavern activity pool, Dip in Theatre, Coconut Grove adventure river, Palm Grotto indoor/outdoor spa, Parrot Perch’s interactive play island, Pizza Hut Express and snack bar, there is something for everyone!
THE DISCOVERY MUSEUM 4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT (203) 372-3521 http://www.discoverymuseum.org/ A hands-on, brains-on interactive museum for kids of all ages, located on the Fairfield/Bridgeport border. The museum offers exciting exhibits, thrilling planetarium shows, the Challenger Learning Center, the area’s only CineMuse High Definition Theatre and the Kids at Work preschool activity area.
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT (203) 852-0700 http://www.maritimeaquarium.org/ Families will have a great time while learning about the vital natural resource just off our shore. Explore at your own pace. Thirty-four exhibits featuring more than 1,200 marine animals of 259 species. A Touch Tank and nose-to-nose interactions bring close encounters with our friends of the sea. Movies at IMAX Theater as well.
MATTATUCK MUSEUM ARTS & HISTORY CENTER 144 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT (203) 753-0381 http://www.mattatuckmuseum.org/ The museum brings the past, present and future together through exhibits and collections showcasing the history of the region and art of Connecticut. View great works by American Masters, experience the “you-were-there” history of the Waterbury region and explore the 10,000 buttons on display.
NATURE'S ART & DINOSAUR CROSSING 1650 Route 85, Oakdale, CT (860) 443-4367 http://www.thedinosaurplace.com/ A day of prehistoric fun awaits at Nature’s Art, aka the Dinosaur Place. Indoors enjoy hands-on science and nature activities such as mining for gemstones and excavating a dinosaur skeleton. Outdoors encounter more than 25 life-sized dinosaurs set amid walking trails, romp in Monty’s Playground and enjoy ice cream.
QUASSY AMUSEMENT PARK Middlebury, CT 1-800-FOR-PARKhttp://www.quassy.com/ Affordable family fun close to home. Rides, “Saturation Station” water play area, entertainment, food, arcade, special events.
SHORE LINE TROLLEY MUSEUM 17 River Street, East Haven, CT (203) 467-6927 http://www.bera.org/ Savor the atmosphere of the trolley era. Ride the historic Branford Electric Railway, the oldest continually operating suburban trolley in the United States. Anational historic site. Days of operation: Memorial Day to Labor Day, Daily. Hours:10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sat. & Sun. in May, Sept., Oct. Abbreviated schedule in Nov. & Dec.
STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT (203) 899-0606 http://www.steppingstonesmuseum.org/ Join the crew and discover building basics with Stepping Stones' newest exhibit, Build It! Help finish a two-story home under construction. Children can build walls, apply siding and decorate with carpet squares and wallpaper. Learn about the building process and take a sneak peak at Stepping Stones' expansion plans for 2010.
PERFORMANCE ARTS
EDGERTON CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS 5151 Park Avenue, Fairfield, CT (203) 371-7908 http://www.edgertoncenter.org/ The Edgerton Center, a 776-seat theatre located on Sacred Heart University’s Fairfield campus, is dedicated to presenting professional family theatre, with an educational emphasis, to Connecticut’s younger audiences.
PLAYHOUSE ON THE GREEN 177 State Street, Bridgeport, CT (203) 333-3666 http://www.playhouseonthegreen.org/ The Playhouse presents Project Broadway, a summer theater program for children in gr. 1-8. Work as a team with professional artists to create a Broadway style musical! Weeklong programs in July & Aug. Project Broadway @ Night for gr. 9-12 is a five-week program, which will result in a production of Romeo and Juliet!
QUICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS Fairfield University(203) 254-4010http://www.quickcenter.com/ Presenting the finest in family-oriented events, including plays and musicals, children's summer theatre camps, and interactive workshops. Ask about special group discounts and free birthday parties.
RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE80 East Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT (203) 438-5795 http://www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/ Features live events and first run movies for children and adults alike. The Children’s Series features nine exciting performances one Saturday per month through May. For information call the box office at 203-438-5795.
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
XL CENTER & WOLF PACK
1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CThttp://www.hartfordciviccenter.com/
www.hartfordwolfpack.com
Home to the AHL Hartford Wolf Pack, and host to a wide array of family shows, concerts & sporting events. Box Office Info Line: 860-727-8010; Event tickets (Ticketmaster): 860-525-4500; Hartford Wolf Pack tickets & Birthday Parties: 860-548-2000; Hartford Wolf Pack Kid’s Club: 860-246-7825.
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
MUSEUMS/ATTRACTIONS
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, CT (860) 231-2824 http://www.thechildrensmuseumct.org/ A one-of-a-kind science and nature museum providing rich learning experiences through hands-on exhibits, over 100 live animals, digital planetarium shows, science demonstrations and a variety of educational programs. We feature the only science-based preschool in CT and the Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton.
COCO KEY WATER RESORT Holiday Inn, 3580 East Main St., Waterbury, CT (203) 706-1000 http://www.cocokeywaterresort.com/ A real Key Water adventure. From the thrilling Shark Slam, Gator Gush and Barracuda Blast water slides, to the Coral Reef Cavern activity pool, Dip in Theatre, Coconut Grove adventure river, Palm Grotto indoor/outdoor spa, Parrot Perch’s interactive play island, Pizza Hut Express and snack bar, there is something for everyone!
THE DISCOVERY MUSEUM 4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT (203) 372-3521 http://www.discoverymuseum.org/ A hands-on, brains-on interactive museum for kids of all ages, located on the Fairfield/Bridgeport border. The museum offers exciting exhibits, thrilling planetarium shows, the Challenger Learning Center, the area’s only CineMuse High Definition Theatre and the Kids at Work preschool activity area.
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT (203) 852-0700 http://www.maritimeaquarium.org/ Families will have a great time while learning about the vital natural resource just off our shore. Explore at your own pace. Thirty-four exhibits featuring more than 1,200 marine animals of 259 species. A Touch Tank and nose-to-nose interactions bring close encounters with our friends of the sea. Movies at IMAX Theater as well.
MATTATUCK MUSEUM ARTS & HISTORY CENTER 144 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT (203) 753-0381 http://www.mattatuckmuseum.org/ The museum brings the past, present and future together through exhibits and collections showcasing the history of the region and art of Connecticut. View great works by American Masters, experience the “you-were-there” history of the Waterbury region and explore the 10,000 buttons on display.
NATURE'S ART & DINOSAUR CROSSING 1650 Route 85, Oakdale, CT (860) 443-4367 http://www.thedinosaurplace.com/ A day of prehistoric fun awaits at Nature’s Art, aka the Dinosaur Place. Indoors enjoy hands-on science and nature activities such as mining for gemstones and excavating a dinosaur skeleton. Outdoors encounter more than 25 life-sized dinosaurs set amid walking trails, romp in Monty’s Playground and enjoy ice cream.
QUASSY AMUSEMENT PARK Middlebury, CT 1-800-FOR-PARKhttp://www.quassy.com/ Affordable family fun close to home. Rides, “Saturation Station” water play area, entertainment, food, arcade, special events.
SHORE LINE TROLLEY MUSEUM 17 River Street, East Haven, CT (203) 467-6927 http://www.bera.org/ Savor the atmosphere of the trolley era. Ride the historic Branford Electric Railway, the oldest continually operating suburban trolley in the United States. Anational historic site. Days of operation: Memorial Day to Labor Day, Daily. Hours:10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sat. & Sun. in May, Sept., Oct. Abbreviated schedule in Nov. & Dec.
STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT (203) 899-0606 http://www.steppingstonesmuseum.org/ Join the crew and discover building basics with Stepping Stones' newest exhibit, Build It! Help finish a two-story home under construction. Children can build walls, apply siding and decorate with carpet squares and wallpaper. Learn about the building process and take a sneak peak at Stepping Stones' expansion plans for 2010.
PERFORMANCE ARTS
EDGERTON CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS 5151 Park Avenue, Fairfield, CT (203) 371-7908 http://www.edgertoncenter.org/ The Edgerton Center, a 776-seat theatre located on Sacred Heart University’s Fairfield campus, is dedicated to presenting professional family theatre, with an educational emphasis, to Connecticut’s younger audiences.
PLAYHOUSE ON THE GREEN 177 State Street, Bridgeport, CT (203) 333-3666 http://www.playhouseonthegreen.org/ The Playhouse presents Project Broadway, a summer theater program for children in gr. 1-8. Work as a team with professional artists to create a Broadway style musical! Weeklong programs in July & Aug. Project Broadway @ Night for gr. 9-12 is a five-week program, which will result in a production of Romeo and Juliet!
QUICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS Fairfield University(203) 254-4010http://www.quickcenter.com/ Presenting the finest in family-oriented events, including plays and musicals, children's summer theatre camps, and interactive workshops. Ask about special group discounts and free birthday parties.
RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE80 East Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT (203) 438-5795 http://www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/ Features live events and first run movies for children and adults alike. The Children’s Series features nine exciting performances one Saturday per month through May. For information call the box office at 203-438-5795.
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
XL CENTER & WOLF PACK
1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CThttp://www.hartfordciviccenter.com/
www.hartfordwolfpack.com
Home to the AHL Hartford Wolf Pack, and host to a wide array of family shows, concerts & sporting events. Box Office Info Line: 860-727-8010; Event tickets (Ticketmaster): 860-525-4500; Hartford Wolf Pack tickets & Birthday Parties: 860-548-2000; Hartford Wolf Pack Kid’s Club: 860-246-7825.
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
Monday, August 31, 2009
Can Chamomile Soothe a Colicky Baby?
Really? The Claim: Chamomile Can Soothe a Colicky Baby.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/01/health/01real.html?ref=science
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/01/health/01real.html?ref=science
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency
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