Toddler Tools: 3 Simple ways to turn No! into Yes!

January 19, 2012

Toddler Tools: 3 Simple ways to turn No! into Yes!

I am always hungry for smart tips and advice from other moms on things that work to make their daily life run a little more smoothly. With that in mind, I wanted to share 3 inexpensive items that have been helping us avoid major battles at meals, bath time and bed time lately.

1.DINNER TIME: The funny face plate!

Remember those magnetic wooly face toys from our childhood? This plate is like that but with your child’s meals! I love using this plate to make Everly’s dinner look entertaining and appetizing. She has been much more willing to eat veggies or proteins that normally go untouched if I disguise them as a beard and fluffy eye brows on the funny face plate. I found this one on a discount website but a similar version is available here!

2. BATH TIME: Glo-sticks in the bathtub! I originally saw this idea on Pinterest and thought it was brilliant. I’ve found packs of glosticks at Target for $1, so we try to stock up! If Everly ever refuses to take a bath, we just flip off the lights, toss a few in, and she’ll beg us to get in. Works every time!

3. BED TIME The Star turtle! This little guy was a present from Santa and he has been an AWESOME addition to Everly’s bedtime routine. We recently transitioned her into her big girl bed and turning on the Star turtle at bedtime has made her excited to crawl beneath the covers each night. She also loves changing the star colors from green to purple to orange and I like that it has a timer that turns it off after she falls asleep. He provides a sense of comfort and entertainment once we leave the room. We’re really loving this little guy!

Do you have any tools that aid in your daily routine with your toddler? We’re learning that adding a silly song or dance to almost anything we do makes Everly a more willing participant. It’s all about keeping them engaged and curious! Share your secrets and successes!

Love,