Milestonesforlife

It helps to know how children learn when trying to teach them something. Children learn primarily one of three ways…

- By example

- By repetition

- Through Play

This brings us back to our fundamental parenting concept, your children are watching you whether you realize it or not. “Do as I say” and “not as I do” just doesn’t work well with a pre-schooler. You are the role model for your children which is why many issues such as alcohol use, drug use and smoking are passed down through each generation. 

Try turning difficult tasks into play like “sharing” or  ”taking turns”.  Once your little one enters the first grade, repetition especially on schoolwork (math, spelling words) will serve as a key learning tool.

I hear many parents say my child is misbehaving or my child isn’t listening. My first response back is “Have you taught them what is expected?”

We get so busy in our lives that we fail to take the time to teach our children what is expected. As an example, we need to teach them how to behave in public places such as restaurants. We need to teach them how to whisper in church. We can’t be annoyed at our children if we haven’t taught them proper behavior first.  

Wouldn’t it be nice if they just learned how to tie their shoes on their own? or if they learned to ”potty train” on their own? It’s doesn’t happen that way.

They are looking at you for their model of behavior. ”Walk the walk” you want your children to follow.  

Most cavities in children occur on the biting surfaces of teeth. Sealants, which are clear or shaded plastic coatings that protect the grooves on the biting surface, can eliminate these cavities.

As long as the sealant is in place, there is virtually a 100 percent chance of no decay. They can last as long as 10 years (avg duration 4 yrs) and have been around for 25 years. When they wear out, you put new ones on!

Now why didn’t my dentist tell me about that? Ask your dentist today!

Facts: Only 50% of children (ages 0-12) are Cavity-free in America.

A common mistake new parents make with their children is “asking” their child to do something vs “telling” their child to do something. You see, the problem lies with the fact that regardless of how the child answers the question, you still want them to complete the task.

Mark’s Monday Milestone: Tell…Don’t ASK! As a result of positive commands, you will be setting expectations appropriately and not ending up in a battle of ”No” vs ”because I said so”

Helpful Tips: Tell them what to do…vs what not to do.

For example,,,Walk,,,vs Stop Running,,,,Whisper,,vs Stop talking

Also, use the tone of your voice to encourage immediate results. Your first command might be in your speaking voice (warning),,next command (should be louder and intent). Ensure you have your childs attention first before talking and avoid yelling from another room in the house.

Enjoy!