Tag Archive for: Milestones

As a parent, it can be concerning when your child doesn’t seem interested in playing with friends. You may wonder if there’s something wrong with them or if you’re doing something wrong. Friendship and social interaction are vital aspects of life, and you want your child to enjoy the company of other kiddos. 

The truth is, there are many reasons why a shy child may have a harder time making friends. Some of these reasons are perfectly standard, while others may be a sign of a more serious situation.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common reasons why children don’t want to play with friends, as well as some tips on how to encourage positive social behaviors.

Why a Child Doesn’t Want to Play With Friends

If your child doesn’t want to play with friends, it’s important to first understand why. Once you know the reason, you can start to take steps to encourage positive social behaviors. With your support, your child can learn the skills they need to make friends and start living a happy and fulfilling social life.

Lack of Connection

One of the most common reasons why children don’t want to play with friends is simply because they don’t feel connected to them. This could be because they have different interests, values, or personalities. You don’t want to become friends with everyone you meet, and neither will your child. 

Consider introducing your kid to other children with similar interests. Does your child love soccer? A soccer camp is a great place to start. Is your child fascinated by space? Then a trip to the local family-friendly science center could be beneficial. 

Low Self-Confidence

Another common reason why children don’t want to play with friends is because they have low self-confidence. They may be afraid of being rejected or ridiculed, so they avoid social situations altogether. Remember, confidence is a trait that can be encouraged and built up over time. If your child struggles with low self-esteem, now is a great time to start combating that with engineered success experiences. 

Limited Socialization Experience

Children who have limited socialization experience may be less likely to play with friends. When children haven’t had a chance to build relationships with others their own age, they may not immediately start socializing in a new setting.

You may just need to give your child time to learn and get comfortable. Slowly introduce more and more social settings until they become pros.

Cognitive/Behavioral Differences

In some cases, a child’s reluctance to play with friends may be due to cognitive or behavioral differences. For example, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have difficulty understanding social cues or interacting with other children in a typical way. Cues that your child may have a behavioral difference include difficulty maintaining eye contact, disinterested body language, and lack of communication skills. 

These disorders are common, and many diagnosed children develop helpful mechanisms that allow them to socialize and make friends. 

How to Encourage Positive Social Behaviors

If you’re concerned about your child’s lack of interest in playing with friends, there are a few things you can do to encourage positive social behaviors.

Encouragement

One of the most important things you can do is to encourage your child to play with friends. Let them know that you think having friends is great fun and that you’re there to support them.

Monitored Practice

You can also help your child practice social skills in a safe and controlled environment. This could involve setting up playdates with other children you know and trust or joining a playgroup or club.

Specialist Intervention

In some cases, your child may benefit from specialist intervention. A therapist or counselor can help your child understand social cues, develop social skills, and overcome any anxiety or fear they may have about interacting with other children. 

A child psychologist, psychiatrist, or even medical doctor can help diagnose your child with a disorder and get them any treatment they may need. 

A Premier Educational Center

Child learning centers like after school programs, preschools, and early education daycares all offer a unique opportunity. They are safe spaces designed to encourage and facilitate healthy friendships in children. Not every education center does this as effectively, so look for a facility that hires experienced teachers and offers plenty of enrichment and opportunities for play. 

Proper Socialization With Cadence Education

Looking for a premier educational center that can help your child with their social skills? Cadence Education is a leading provider of social skills training for children, providing top educational experiences, social activities, and motor development opportunities.

Cadence Education’s programs are designed to help children develop the social skills they need to succeed in school, at home, and in their community. Their programs are delivered by experienced and certified professionals and offer a variety of services to meet the individual needs of each child.

Contact Cadence Education today to get started. 

There’s so much going on for a two-year-old child who’s absorbing every bit of information around them while relishing the joys of independence. At this age, parents can expect to encounter big feelings and a lot of talking and movement. For those just figuring out parenting themselves — or even the most experienced ones — setting a daily routine can help rein in those sudden emotional outbursts and make days a bit more predictable. 

This guide discusses tips on creating a two year old’s schedule, and how partnering with a daycare can help make things so much easier. 

Why Structure is Important for 2 Year Olds

How essential is a schedule for toddlers? Small children who have routines tend to feel more stable, secure, and trusting of their parents and caregivers. Because toddlers are still developing a deeper grasp of the events around them, a schedule can also help them understand what is expected of them, so they can behave accordingly. 

Setting a daily schedule for a two-year-old child brings many benefits for both the child and the parent or caregiver, including:

Stable body clock

A consistent routine can help children and their bodies get accustomed to daily basics, such as eating healthy and full meals, taking naps and sleeping well at night, enjoying outdoor time and play, following a regular potty time, and staying relaxed and calm during down times. 

Social, cognitive, and emotional development

Routines that are predictable, have the right transition cues, and offer enough room for flexibility can help reduce tantrums and other challenging behaviors. Children with routines are often more engaged with the people around them and their environment and respond more positively in case changes happen. 

Established expectations

Schedules teach small children to expect certain activities for the day, so there’s less of a power struggle when, for example, toys need to be packed away for nap time or when it’s time for a bath. It’s also good for the busy parent or caregiver because a routine serves as a reminder of important tasks, like ensuring the child takes their vitamins, doesn’t miss a daycare activity, or doesn’t run out of milk and healthy snacks. A schedule creates a calmer household, reducing anxiety and stress for both the child and the parent. 

Stable learning environment

Everyday routines offer plenty of teaching moments for two year olds. For instance, you can teach young children to brush their teeth before sleeping or wash their hands before eating. Each activity on the schedule is also an opportunity to chat and ask questions/provide answers to help them develop academically and build strong communication skills. 

Sample Daily Schedule for 2 Year Olds

Parents benefit a lot from enrolling their little kids to daycare. The kind of structure that experienced early learning providers create helps busy caregivers get on with their work day while ensuring that children also develop the right way. If you are considering enrolling your child in daycare, here’s an example of a schedule your two-year-old child may have. 

Morning

  • 9:00 AM – Arrival and breakfast time. Children are greeted by their teachers as they arrive and can play quietly while waiting for their friends to come.
  • 9:00 AM to 9:15 AM – Time for a healthy snack to start the day right.
  • 9:15 AM to 9:30 AM – Circle time. Start the day as a group and talk about what’s in store for the day. You can sing songs, share stories, or read a book out loud.
  • 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM – Fun activities. Depending on the plan for the day, toddlers can explore and play on their own or engage in a teacher-led group activity. 
  • 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM – Outdoor play. 
  • 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM – Lunch break. Kids together learn to wash their hands, set tables, and prepare to have lunch.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM – Quiet time. Most children will take a nap, while others enjoy their time quietly by playing on their own or looking at books. 
  • 2:00 PM to 2:10 PM – Snack time. 
  • 2:10 PM to 2:50 PM – Activity time. Similar to the morning activity hour, kids can engage in theme-based, teacher-led activities or explore on their own.
  • 2:50 PM to 3:20 PM – Outdoor play. This can be a solo or group activity, depending on what the teacher has planned for the afternoon.
  • 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM – Group time. Children come together before the day ends for another group session. 
  • 4:00 PM onwards – Pick up time. 

What if we haven’t enrolled in daycare yet?

No worries! If you haven’t enrolled in daycare yet and are looking for a schedule you can adopt for your two-year-old child at home, the sample schedule can also work, with some modifications depending on your available resources. Most stay-at-home parents devote a certain space in their home for toddler learning and activities and then just take their little ones out to the yard or the nearby park for outdoor time. 

The activities don’t have to be fancy, as what’s really important to the schedule is a predictable structure and your involvement as caregiver and educator. But if you have the opportunity to enroll at a daycare near you, that would be most beneficial for both you and your little one. 

Build an Effective Schedule For Your 2 Year Old with Cadence Education

Cadence Education’s toddler care program is tailored to the developmental needs of two-year-old children, offering a fun and loving environment that is as nurturing as home. Activities spark creativity and confidence by allowing children unique opportunities for self-expression, alongside academic nurturing to prepare them for kindergarten. Contact us today to learn more about our flexible part-time and full-time daycare programs.

 

Find Your School

 

Without a well-developed language and vocabulary, it’s difficult to communicate our needs and moods to others.

The same goes for babies and toddlers. Crying, whining, and fussiness are all ways babies and toddlers tell their caregivers what they need or feel using the only language they know: sounds. 

Unfortunately, though, these sounds can cause parental sleeplessness, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms may compound with career or relationship stressors.

From 2019 to 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that among parents who have children under the age of 3, the unemployment rate doubled from 4.1% to 8%. This is, no doubt, because families needed to keep their children at home due to the pandemic.

But why do babies cry in their sleep? How can I soothe an infant or toddler crying in its sleep? How can I take care of myself as a parent of a constantly crying baby or toddler? We answer the whys and provide the hows below.

Why Do Some Babies and Toddlers Cry in Their Sleep?

For a newborn, it may take three to six months to get into a regular sleep pattern because they are accustomed to sleeping during the day in the womb. 

Toddlers might be on a more regular sleep schedule. However, some children experience night terrors that bring distress and cause them to lose sleep and get fussy.

What Parents of Babies Can Do

Do babies have different types of cries? Research says no. But scientists were able to standardize the definition of colic as a rule of threes.

  1. The baby is healthy and well-fed.
  2. The crying lasts for more than three hours a day.
  3. The crying happens more than three days a week.

Most infants reach their crying peak at around one or two months of age, but this usually subsides by the time the baby is three months old.

Beyond three months is when the colic is of concern to the baby’s pediatrician. 

What Parents of Toddlers Can Do

For toddlers, two-year-old sleep regression is common due to sensory overload and night terrors. Toddlers learn with their senses, and their brains are firing off millions upon millions more neurons than the adult brain. With brain activity on hyperdrive, many toddlers become prone to having night terrors. 

Trying to answer the question ”Why do babies cry in their sleep?” as a new parent takes trial and error. You can start by going through this check-list of questions when a baby won’t stop crying:

  • Is the baby hungry? Newborns eat frequently. A pacifier might also help.
  • Is the diaper wet or dirty?
  • Is the room too hot or too cold? Perhaps the baby is underdressed or overdressed.
  • Is the baby overstimulated? Dim the lights, and play soothing music.
  • Is the baby sick? Take the baby’s temperature. 
  • Is the baby lonely or afraid? Hold and rock the baby.

In the meantime, here are some tips to soothe a crying baby or toddler crying in sleep.

How Do You Put a Baby To Sleep?

Baby care specialists and moms recommend these tips to put a baby to sleep.

  • Use a blanket to swaddle the baby.
  • Sing or hum to the baby.
  • Use a swing, rocking chair, or your body movements.
  • Motion helps babies fall asleep. Go for a ride in the car or stroller.
  • Give the baby a warm and relaxing bath.
  • Use a sound machine or another kind of white noise equipment.

Now that your little one is — hopefully — asleep, here are ways to take care of yourself during this phase of your child’s life.

Do’s and Don’ts for Parents Dealing With Sleep Concerns in Children

It is incredibly debilitating for new parents to have a colicky baby for three months. Parents might develop conditions such as postpartum syndrome, insomnia, and fatigue. To help struggling parents cope, here are some do’s and don’ts of parenting a child with sleep problems:

Do: Take care of yourself, so you can care for the baby.

Do: Create a support system of friends and family for respite.

Do: Keep your child’s pediatrician informed of any changes, improvements, or digressions.

Don’t: Don’t panic. Babies and toddlers crying in sleep are more common than you think during the first three months.

Don’t: Wait too long to consult with your doctor about the state of your mental health. If you feel fatigued or disoriented, it’s best to speak to a professional who can help. 

See Your Little Ones Adjust and Thrive With Cadence Education

Dealing with a baby or toddler who frequently cries in their sleep is, no doubt, stressful. But you can take comfort in knowing that help is available when you need to take a break and focus on caring for yourself. 

With that said, when it’s time to choose a daycare for your toddler, consider a provider that truly cares about your and your child’s well-being. Cadence Education has trained teaching professionals who are equipped with all the skills and resources needed to help your baby or toddler acclimate into a new environment and succeed. In this way, your child grows in a positive learning environment that’s an extension of your loving home, eventually helping to reduce sleep issues. Contact Cadence Education to find a school near you.

As the new school year rolls around, you may be looking into what preschool to send your child to. You’ll be researching programs and investigating requirements to see where your child will best fit. One of these requirements may be a preschool potty training policy. That’s right — the time has finally come to make sure your child is potty trained and ready for this new chapter of life. Read on to learn more about preschool potty training policies and tips for potty training your child.

Preschool Potty Training Requirements

So, does a child have to be potty trained for preschool? The answer depends on the program your child is enrolled in.

In general, most programs for children ages three and up will require that your child be potty trained before starting. Programs for younger children often won’t require potty training and will provide information regarding how they assist in the potty training process.

The best course of action is to contact the specific school your child will be attending to verify their preschool potty training policy.

Tips for Potty Training Your Child

As preschool nears, potty training your child may be on your list of preparations for the transition into the school environment. But how do you potty train your child?

There are a few tips and tricks you can follow to train your child and get them ready to meet preschool potty training policies. Keep reading to learn what these tips are and how to prepare for this new stage in your child’s life.

Meet with the Teacher

Preschool teachers are often equipped with the knowledge and experience that can help you with potty training your child. If your child is attending a preschool that does not have a potty training requirement, you may be able to enlist the assistance of the teacher with potty training. It can also be helpful to check in with your child’s teacher about potty training progress and ensure they’re on the right track.

Pack Extra Diapers

In the situation that your child is enrolled in a preschool without a potty training policy, you’ll want to pack additional diapers in their bag. This way, your child will be prepared with all the supplies they need in the instance of an accident and won’t need to sit in the discomfort of their dirty diaper all day.

Create a Schedule

As you potty train your child, try to stick to a routine schedule. It may be beneficial to have your child try and use the bathroom after each meal since this may best match the bathroom breaks at preschool as well. As your child becomes more familiar with this routine, it will make using the bathroom more comfortable over time.

Use a Reward System

Negative reinforcement to potty training often leads to more accidents and a decreased motivation to continue training. Instead, consider implementing a reward system that encourages your child each time they successfully use the bathroom on their own.

Stay Patient

Children are great at picking up on parental emotions, so staying patient is essential to reducing your child’s discomfort and stress. Keep a positive mindset and try not to react negatively if an accident occurs as it can be discouraging for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should you start potty training your child?
On average, children are ready to begin potty training between 18 and 24 months. However, some children may need more time before they feel comfortable potty training. It’s important not to rush your child into this new chapter of life as the added pressure can delay training.

What are the signs your child is ready for potty training?
Some of the major signs that your child may be ready for potty training include mimicking bathroom behaviors of others in the household and hiding to use the bathroom. Your child may also begin sitting on the potty for extended periods of time.

What should you do if your child is upset with potty training?
The first step is to not force your child to use the bathroom. Forcing them to try and potty train will likely increase their discomfort and make them less interested in training. Be patient and do what you can to ease your child’s fears. Try using a positive reward system to encourage bathroom usage.

When should you switch from diapers to underwear?
Once your child begins showing discomfort with their diapers, it may be time to switch to underwear. It may be beneficial to start with purchasing the underwear and introducing them to your child as an option. Let them lead the transition slowly so they feel comfortable switching from their normal snug-fit diapers to regular underwear.

How should you respond to accidents?
Reacting negatively can discourage your child from wanting to continue with potty training. Instead, be patient and comfort your child. Accidents are bound to happen during the potty training process, but going back to the basics and offering encouragement can help reduce those accidents.

Access Helpful Resources with Cadence Education

As you navigate potty training, don’t be afraid to lean on your child’s preschool for additional assistance. Toddler care programs like the ones offered at Cadence Education have trained professionals ready to help you and your child through the potty training process. Our school also offers additional resources to help your potty training days run smoothly.

Contact Cadence Education today or find a school near you to learn more about our preschool potty training policies and program options!

Is your baby staring at people, objects, or seemingly nothing at all?

Perhaps you’ve thought it was weird that your baby won’t look away from a stranger’s face. Or perhaps a little creepy that your baby stares at one corner of your room all the time, like s/he sees something you don’t.

There is a perfectly good reason why your little one is staring so much! In fact, it’s a sign his/her brain is developing well!

So why do babies stare? Here’s the answer!

Why Do Babies Stare at You?

You’re Beautiful

A study done by a group of university professors showed that babies often stare at people because they think they are attractive.

In the study, babies were shown two pictures: one of a person considered beautiful and one of an individual who wasn’t considered attractive. Instinctually, the babies were drawn to the beautiful faces.

It has nothing to do with society’s standards of beauty. Instead, it showed that even infants are drawn to people they found interesting to look at.

So if you catch a baby staring at you, it just may be because s/he thinks there’s something special about the way you look.

You’re Different

Do you have eyeglasses? A beard? Purple hair?

Remember that babies are new to the world. They are still learning about the world around them.

A baby might be staring at you because you have a feature s/he has never seen before! You could be fascinating to the little one.

Why do Babies Stare at Objects?

It’s Moving

Babies’ eyes are drawn to movement. That’s why they might be staring at your spinning ceiling fan or that toy you animatedly play with to make your baby smile.

In contrast, if your baby turns away from moving objects, it’s probably because s/he is processing a lot at the moment and needs to regroup.

If you are playing with your baby and s/he looks away from the moving object you are playing with, don’t force his/her attention back on the toy. Give your baby some time to regroup.

There are Contrasting Colors

Babies’ eyes are drawn to stark contrasts. If there are two contrasting colors side by side, your baby’s eyes will probably be drawn to it. It may even be something as simple as where a piece of furniture meets a wall. That may be why your baby is staring at what looks like nothing. S/He is still learning about the world, so even simple things can fascinate your infant.

Why Do Babies Stare into Space?

Their Little Brains are Developing

Just in the first ninety days of a baby’s life, their brains will grow by 64%! This means your baby is making many new connections and understanding lots of new things. Thus, if your baby is staring into space, it’s probably because s/he’s working overtime on developing his/her mind.

Some parents worry if their baby is staring at seemingly nothing. Nonetheless, it may be a sign of their brain working extra hard!

It’s All About Development

The main reason babies stare is that their brains are developing and growing at an exponential rate. In fact, the more you play with your baby and engage with him/her, the better his/her brain will develop.