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Potty TrainingFeatured

December 1, 2024
19

Every child is unique, and unique in the way they develop their skills and knowledge. Many children show that they are ready to potty train between 18 and 24 months. There are different ways to potty train children. The success of potty training will depend on physical, developmental and behavioral milestones, not age. However, others may not be ready until age 3. There is no rush, if you start too early, potty training may be delayed and that is where many parents get impatient.

To identify if your little one is ready to potty train, you can use the following key questions:

  • Can he walk and sit in the toilet?
  • Can he pull his pants down and pull them back up?
  • Can he stay dry for two hours?
  • Can he understand and follow basic directions?
  • Can he communicate when he needs to go to the bathroom?
  • Does he seem interested in using the toilet or big boy underwear?

If most of the answers are yes, your child may be ready. If not, he or she may want to wait, especially if there are other major changes, such as a move or the arrival of a new sibling.

Adult preparation is also vital. You should set aside your enthusiasm and allow your child’s motivation to direct the process. Try not to equate the success or difficulty of potty training with your child’s intelligence or stubbornness. Also, keep in mind that accidents are inevitable, and punishment has no role in the process. Plan potty training for when you have quality time to devote to the process and the energy to be consistent.

When it’s time to start potty training:

  • Choose your words. Decide what words you’re going to use for your child’s bodily fluids. Avoid negative words, such as dirty or stinky.
  • Prepare the equipment. Place a potty chair in the bathroom or, at first, wherever your child is spending most of his or her time. Encourage your child to sit on the potty with clothes on to start.
  • Make sure your child’s feet rest on the floor or stool. Use simple, positive terms to talk about the toilet. You could dump the contents of a soiled diaper into the potty and toilet to show your purpose. Have your child flush the toilet.
  • Schedule potty breaks. Have your child sit on the potty or toilet without a diaper for a few minutes at two-hour intervals, as well as first thing in the morning and right after naps. For boys, it’s often best to master sitting urination and then move on to standing after bowel training is complete. Many parents are alarmed when their potty-trained child is sitting up to do #1 – this is seen a lot with single moms because it’s what the child watches at home, and it’s okay – it’s just natural.

Stay with your child and read a book together or play with a toy while he or she is sitting. Allow your child to get up if he or she wants to. Even if your child just sits there, praise him or her for trying and remind him or her that he or she can try again later. Bring the potty with you when you are out and about with your child.

  • Use a watch. Time the intervals when your child is using the toilet – this will help with regular use, preventing accidents.
  • Go to the toilet quickly! When you notice signs that your child might need to go, such as squirming, squatting, or holding on to the genital area, respond quickly. Help your child become familiar with these signs by stopping what you are doing and going to the toilet. Praise your child for telling you when he or she needs to go. Keep your child in loose, easy-to-remove clothing.
  • Explain hygiene. Teach girls to spread their legs and wipe carefully from front to back to prevent germs from the rectum from reaching the vagina or bladder. Make sure your child washes his or her hands afterwards.
  • Ditch the diapers. Once potty training begins, replace diapers with cloth underwear. Remember that training pads have the same texture as diapers, so they could cause confusion.

After a couple of weeks of successful potty breaks and staying dry during the day, celebrate the transition. Let your child go back to diapers if he or she can’t stay dry. Consider using a sticker or star chart as positive reinforcement. If your child resists using the potty or toilet or isn’t getting the hang of it within a few weeks, take a break. Chances are, he or she isn’t ready yet. Pushing your child when he or she isn’t ready can lead to a frustrating power struggle. Try again in a few months.

Nighttime potty training

Naptime and bedtime training often take longer to achieve success. Most children can stay dry through the night between the ages of 5 and 7. In the meantime, wear disposable training pants and mattress covers when your child is sleeping.

  • How to deal with accidents?
    • Stay calm. Don’t punish or embarrass your child. You can say: You forgot this time, but next time go to the bathroom first.
    • Be prepared. Have a change of underwear and clothes on hand, especially at school or daycare.
  • When to seek assistance?
    • If your child seems ready for potty training but is having difficulty, talk to your pediatrician. He or she can provide guidance and check to see if there are any other problems affecting the potty-training process.

Reference:

Baby and Toddler Health. 2021. https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/potty-training/art-20045230

Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.

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Viral Illnesses in Children: What to Expect and How to Protect Your Family This Fall/WinterFeatured

December 1, 2024
24

In Wisconsin, like many other cities, has seen an increase in respiratory viral infections among young children, especially with viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Health officials have noted elevated levels of respiratory disease activity based on data from emergency room visits, lab tests, and hospitalizations. It is important to follow prevention strategies, such as staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and considering wearing masks in crowded settings (Wisconsin Department of Health Service).

RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms in most people, but can cause more severe illnesses in young children, especially those younger than six months. Symptoms of RSV include nasal congestion, cough, fever, and in some cases difficulty breathing. Parents should watch for signs such as difficulty breathing, dehydration (such as few wet diapers), and changes in their children’s interaction and alertness to decide when to seek medical care.

Influenza is also on the rise in the region, primarily affecting children and young adults. Vaccination is recommended for everyone over six months of age, as the vaccine takes about two weeks to offer full protection.

Prevention

• Vaccines: Make sure all family members over six months of age are up to date on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness.

• Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid Crowds: Limit time in crowded places, especially during seasons of high incidence of respiratory viruses.

• Use Masks: Consider wearing masks in closed, crowded spaces, especially if you have an infant or young child who cannot yet be vaccinated.

Common Symptoms of Viral Infections

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, fever, decreased energy, and in some cases, difficulty breathing.

• Influenza: Symptoms include fever, body aches, cough, nasal congestion, and in some children, vomiting and diarrhea.

• COVID-19: Like other respiratory viruses, it can cause fever, cough, nasal congestion, and in some cases, breathing difficulty.

When to Seek Medical Care

• Difficulty Breathing: If you notice your child is breathing faster, shallowly, or with a lot of effort (like skin sucking in between the ribs), seek immediate medical care.

• Inadequate Hydration: Children should have at least three wet diapers in 24 hours. If they are drinking less or showing signs of dehydration, see a doctor.

• Behavior Changes: If your child is less alert, not interacting, or showing fewer periods of play and activity, it is important to take him or her to a specialist.

Home Care

• Provide rest and keep your child well hydrated.

• Use fever and pain medications appropriate for children, but never give aspirin.

• Keep your child home and away from others to avoid spreading the illness.

How to Help Prevent the Spread

• Stay home if you or your child is sick.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or your elbow.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and tables.

For detailed and up-to-date information on viral illnesses in children, especially during the fall, you can consult the following reliable websites:

1. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): The CDC provides up-to-date information on viral infections such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Their website offers prevention guidelines, symptoms, and specific recommendations for parents and caregivers.

2. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP offers resources on children’s health, including specific information on viral illnesses in young children and recommendations for the fall and winter season.

3. Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic provides information on symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical care for various viral infections affecting children.

4. Wisconsin Department of Health Services: This site offers information specific to Wisconsin residents, including public health alerts and resources on respiratory illnesses and prevention.

Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.

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The Value of DiversityFeatured

December 1, 2024
24

How can we talk to young children about differences and the importance of diversity?

From an early age, children begin to form their own ideas about the world and the people in it. It is essential to take advantage of these early years to sow the seeds of respect and tolerance. The exact age to start these conversations depends on each child’s development, but it is usually between 5 and 8 years old, when they are beginning to develop a greater awareness of themselves and others. Let’s start at home. Being aware of and respecting differences within the family is the first step. In preschool and daycare, we can teach children in simple and fun ways about diversity and inclusion. If we start from a young age, we will foster more tolerant and open-minded children.

Going deeper with activities

A practical activity is to help the child recognize themselves. We can use mirrors, books with different skin tones (such as “The skin you live in”), and materials such as construction paper, paints, and scissors. By creating self-portraits, children can express their opinions and share them with others. In addition, we can invite children to describe their feelings when looking in the mirror or creating their self-portrait. This personal reflection will help them better understand their own identity and value their unique characteristics.

Connecting with the real world

Diversity is an important topic and respect for others is essential. We must promote it in all areas, from education to work. Although it may seem difficult to teach this to young children, it is crucial to address topics such as different cultures and inclusion to create a fairer and more equitable world. We can relate these concepts to everyday examples, such as the diversity of foods we try, the different languages ​​spoken around us or the different ways of celebrating holidays.

Benefits of teaching diversity

We live in an increasingly globalized and diverse world, so teaching children to live with different people is essential for their future. When we teach about diversity, we develop empathy, reduce prejudices, prepare the child for the future and help raise self-esteem. The differences of others are accepted, acceptance is encouraged, and stereotypes are diminished. Everyone feels valued and accepted in their individuality, cultivating a social environment of healthy integration.

Long-term benefits

Diversity is an important issue and respect for others is essential. We must promote it in all areas, from education to work. Although it may seem difficult to teach this to young children, it is crucial to address issues such as different cultures and inclusion to create a fairer and more equitable world. This has a positive impact on the economy and sustainable development. By teaching children to value diversity, we are preparing for future citizens who are more empathetic, tolerant and capable of building meaningful relationships with people from different backgrounds.

Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.

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