Use Your Resources

     If you're a parent (and you probably are if you are reading this blog), you've probably asked yourself at least some of these questions from time to time: Why does my child act the way they do? What can I do to help them develop? How do I handle that particular behavior? What sort of activities could or should I be doing with my child now that they are (certain age) old?

    This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to questions we have about our kids, isn't it? From development to behavior, to manners at the table to whining, all parents have one thing in common: we have significantly more questions than answers when it comes to making sense out of our children.

     While visits to the pediatrician can also be used as a time to ask these questions, often our concern is more with the child's health, sleep patterns, and immunizations than it is with behavior, sibling rivalry, or intellectual activities. Parents As Teachers is a resource that is made available to you through your local school district to provide research-based information, as well as much needed support.

     Did I mention this is a free service from birth to age 3? Yes, that's right. Absolutely free! Once you register, you will be given a Parent Educator who visits your house once a month to come and observe/interact with your child. My educator always comes with handouts regarding my child's age (how to encourage particular areas of growth, etc), an activity that she does with Ava (stringing fruit loops on a pipe cleaner, for instance), and provides me with feedback throughout her time with Ava. She does not come with a list of activities that Ava has to do. It is simply an opportunity to have someone come into my home to observe and interact with my child, while providing me with support and encouragement as a mom. It's a wonderful program to be a part of and I would highly recommend checking into your local Parents As Teachers group. What are you waiting for?