Tricks of the Trade

[5 Little Monkeys]

My trick of the trade is encourage independence as much as possible, kids can do so much if you give them a chance (also makes my day easier!). I am working right now on getting my potty trained 2 year olds to properly wipe themselves after peeing, washing hands independently at the bathroom sink and also getting dressed and undressed for outside by themselves. I am also using my wagon and stroller as little as possible, teaching them how to safely cross the street and walk on the side walk - my crew is all over 2 years old and we are on a quiet street so this is possible.

This is why I shake my head when the parents show up at the end of the day and these independent kids all of a sudden can't do anything for themselves.

Most of my kids leave right at closing time and sometimes I think the parents are in such a rush to get out so I can start my evening off (which is really nice!) that they tend to do things for their child that they can do for them self!

[AmandaKDT]

Most of my kids leave right at closing time and sometimes I think the parents are in such a rush to get out so I can start my evening off (which is really nice!) that they tend to do things for their child that they can do for them self!

I am meaning a 5 year old that all of a sudden can't put on their own boots or carry their own backpack.

[flowerchild]

I am meaning a 5 year old that all of a sudden can't put on their own boots or carry their own backpack.

This drives me up the wall! Especially when they have a huge whiny fit to get their parents to do it and then their parents just give in and do it. Meanwhile, during the day they do it all for themselves lickety-split with no issues.