It's another great milestone in your toddler's development when he is learning to talk. This is a real fun and exciting stage for any parent as you can now start communicating with your toddler using real words. Here are some helpful ways to improve your toddler's speech and communication skills. Each toddler learns at his or her own speed, rate and time. Keep in mind some toddlers are late talkers and it doesn't mean they're developmentally slow or less intelligent than another toddler who can string two words together at 18 months old. They may also use real words and babble at the same time. There's nothing to worry about as this is normal. Your toddler will pick up new words very quickly even when you don't think they're listening so it's important for you, your spouse and any older siblings to filter what they say around a toddler who's learning to talk. Even if your little one isn't talking yet, he will understand simple instructions like "Find a book for Mommy to read to … [Read more...]
Do you make these 8 Mistakes with Your Teenager?
We have all heard horrible stories about out of control teenagers--or even other Moms complaining about the "teenage years". I have also heard the "we choose our battles" phrase far too much. Honestly, the only way to raise a teenager is HANDS ON. Parents must be involved in what is going on in their children's lives. We can never assume that they will always make the right choice or that they have outgrown the need for parental input. My oldest daughter is 18 and a fabulous young woman. I am honored to be her Mother. From my experience raising a teenager, I have seen a few mistakes that many well intentioned parents make--without even realizing it! 8 Mistakes Many Parents Make with their Teenagers 1. Lack of Communication. It is vital that parents communicate with their children. Teenagers are no exception--if anything, it is even MORE important to keep the lines of communication open. We should be asking them how their day was, what's wrong, how are you doing, how can I pray for … [Read more...]
Stuck On Stuck
Contemporary Christian singer, Michael W. Smith, has a beautiful new album out called, Wonder. In a poignant song entitled, “One More Time”, a particular verse hung in the air for me as I listened. “Forget what lies behind you, Heaven walks beside you.” And to take it further on my own if I may, “Heaven walks beside you…and paves the way before you.” How liberating would it be for us, in the midst of suffering, to begin and end each day believing and feeling Christ’s Heavenly presence walking right beside us? Would that be enough to keep us centered in the present moment, and enable our hearts to leave behind painful memories of our past and see hope on the horizon? How I wish all of us as married couples facing challenges, despair, resentments, hurt and fear would allow God’s Grace to shower us as Heaven walks beside us. So many relationships begin a slow fade, fall into a tailspin and ultimately stall where the rubber meets the road. A husband and wife become stuck on … [Read more...]
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