Raising or taking care of children can be stressful. As parents or caregivers, we can feel stressed when we're worried about paying the rent or worried about a sick family member or when our child is having a tantrum. We may try to protect our child from the stress we're feeling, but children are very sensitive to our emotional states. If we are feeling stressed, most likely our child is also feeling that stress. They might not know why you are stressed or why they feel stressed, but they feel the stress. This doesn’t mean you need to share every detail with your child about what is stressing you out, but it does give you a chance to tell them you are feeling stressed and to show them what you do to feel better and calmer.   Manage your stress first The best way to help your child manage their stress or other big feelings is for you to manage your stress or big feelings first. Have you ever been on a plane or watched a movie where the flight attendants remind caregivers … [Read more...]

In times of crisis and calm, babies rely on an accurate Census. On National Baby Day—May 2—join us as we remind families to count all babies and young children in the 2020 Census. Excerpted from Count All Kids census initiative led by ZERO to THREE Haven't taken the census yet? It's quick (5 minutes or less) and confidential. Click to take online at https://my2020census.gov/ or by phone, call (844) 330-2020.   Why is taking the census so important?  The 2020 Census will help decide how much money communities will get for schools, child care and early learning, health insurance and medical care, early intervention and home visiting programs, food assistance, foster care, housing assistance, and public transportation. As the government responds to health and economic crises like COVID-19, an accurate Census also ensures that babies and families are included in emergency plans. Young children are historically undercounted in the Census. In 2010, we … [Read more...]

Messy sensory-play is important for young children, giving them endless ways to develop and learn. It helps them to develop and improve their gross and fine motor skills, coordination, and concentration. Little ones use all their senses to discover and explore their environment, and develop their imagination, creative thinking, and ability to problem solve and experiment with solutions. Soft-as-a-Cloud Play-Dough Ingredients 2 cups cornstarch1 cup inexpensive hair conditioner1 or 2 drops liquid food coloring (optional) Instructions Place cornstarch in a large bowl.Mix in the hair conditioner with your hands.Tip: Scented conditioner will stay on your hands, so choose a scent you and your kids really enjoy---or opt for scent-free.As it comes together, it will be pliable and very, very smooth.If desired, add a drop or two of food coloring. Remember: Food coloring may discolor skin; it's nontoxic and will wash off soon, but be mindful of how much you use.Store in … [Read more...]

It might sound silly . . . but self-hugs have very real benefits! Hugging increases levels of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which positively affect your health. A 20-second hug reduces the harmful physical effects of stress, including its impact on your blood pressure and heart rate. A 10-second hug a day may fight infections, boost your immune system, ease depression, and lessen fatigue. Wrapping your arms around yourself sends a strong message to your body and your brain: I’ve got you, I love you, and you are okay. Hugging yourself is a quick and free act of self-care. … [Read more...]

First and foremost, staying home equals staying safe. But fresh air, sunshine, and activity can make a world of difference during this time of "physical" isolation---for your mental and physical health. There are things, however, that you MUST think about during this precautionary period---for your safety and the safety of others. Below find tips from Lauren Sauer, director of critical event preparedness and response at Johns Hopkins Medicine. See original article. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms at all, stay home.Walk in the least-populated places possible. Instead of walking in areas where groups of people tend to congregate (e.g., parks, beaches), walk in your own neighborhood or on trails. If a trail is too busy, skip it!"Look ahead" and pace yourself, so you can work out how to keep a 6-foot distance between yourselves and others. On narrow walkways, step off the path (keeping that 6 feet) and allow the other person to pass before continuing on. If walking your dog, do … [Read more...]