Raising a healthy infant

One  guide to parenting a healthy toddler is to put in place structures and boundaries. This hastens their development by adding to their confidence and security. To achieve this, parents need to follow the following tips:

Set a routine:  From early on, set a regular time for feeding, playing and sleeping that is suitable for your family set up. This works best for weaned babies as breastfed babies feed on demand about every 2 to 3 hours, making  it harder to follow a fixed routine. Stick to the routine unless the child is unwell.  Ensure the nanny or relatives stick to the schedule to  avoid disrupting the child’s patterns.

Avoid too many changes: Do not start  a new routine when going through a major change like moving house. Children handle change better when  it is introduced in small doses otherwise they get overwhelmed and may be resistant.

Be consistent:   a new thing may not be pleasant to a child. Toddlers crave order and may struggle with change but stick with it if it is ultimately good for them. A lack of structure causes a child fatigue and over-stimulation.

Enhance productivity:  structure allows children time to rest after a long day of activities. This is beneficial for parents as it allows for time for each other. Remember  that structure  is a plus for your baby  as it incorporates order and facilitates proper transition into society.

Family rituals: Rituals give children a sense of belonging and something to look forward to. One ritual is birthdays. Set times to eat, retreat and play together to build lasting memories. Even bath time can be a great way to bond with your child.

Invest in reading: Set reading times with your child when they are alert, well fed and not too tired. Read a story and pray before bedtime and you will be amazed at the impact.

Nature social skills:  allow your child time to connect with other children, be they your friends’  children or  take them to play centers.