Sunflower Diaries

Apples. Fruit and vegetables. Anyone with a toddler “Fruits and Vegetables keep us alive, always remember to eat your five” (Peppa Pig: Super potato)

Encourage a healthy/ balanced diet. 

They only want chocolate. I refer to a day where I had to catch an early train and he had a battle feeding her. Do you want toast?- no! Coco pops? – no! Well what would you like in your breakfast bowl? I want chocolate! 

Bluey. This lovable dog and her friends seems to be a favourite in this household.

My daughter is Bluey obsessed. She even says her Nana loves it.

Comforters. Greatest thing especially for babies and toddlers. 

Dummy. Dare I utter these words.

If you can avoid it/ at least get rid of ahead of age 2 I would say do so. Hard to get rid of. She only uses at nights but even still I worry about her teeth. 

Energy. Eat well and drink plenty of water. Do not drink too much caffeine. You now need to sleep as well/ as often as you can. 

Friendships. Encourage them to play with other children and not be shy outside of nursery. We took a step forward this weekend and she played with a girl she was friends with. 

Goombas. Yes super Mario has brought us together. She loves playing video games (in moderation of course). One favourite is Goomba Island on Mario Party (Golden Goombas please!).

Hair. Encourage them to have independence to brush and style their hair. Our daughter wears too many bows but you embrace it. Gets you out of the house quicker for your train!

Ice lollies. Great for teething. Reduces dependence on other sugary snacks.

Joy. Find the joy in your play time together. Be creative. We like doing arts and crafts. Helps me unwind too!

Kites. Let’s go fly a kite. 

Love. Always show them love and they will grow to love and respect you. Never go to bed cross with each other.

Me my, mine … (fill in the blank). Encourage them to share especially if no other siblings. 

Muslins. You need many of these. Great for babies (feeding/ swaddling/ cooling down ) and toddlers (cold compresses/ vomit guards on the way to AandE). 

No. Most parents find it hard to say no. Set boundaries early (sleeping) and establish a routine. 

Oranges. Great source of vitamin C. 

Play. Play and laugh often. Outside play. 

Quiet time. We try to do this ahead of dinner, bath and bedtime. Puzzles and less exciting music works well. Until they decide I don’t want that anymore?! 

CBeebies Bedtime Stories are a great alternative.

Remember. Your child remembers everything you have promised. Keep your promises – even if it is washing their favourite dress. 

Rainbows – I love a nice rainbow.  A sign of hope.

Socks. You find odd socks everywhere. Great for puppet friends too. 

Tea. Have a mindful cup of tea when you can, you deserve it. It can be hard work. Everyday is a school day. 

Understand their needs. Makes a happier household. Listen and be supportive.

Victory! Celebrate the small wins together. Even if it’s as simple as they managed to tidy their room. Positive reinforcement goes  a long way! 

Wellies. Perfect for nature walks, outdoor adventures and jumping in puddles. Fun / cute wellies preferred, as it encourages them to wear them. 

X…marks the spot. Encourage role play and creativity through games like pirate ships, princesses and families. Also pop up pirate game – classic children’s toy (highly recommend). 

Yes. Remember to say yes to promote positivity. 

Zzzz. Make sure you get plenty of sleep. 

Be kind to yourself. It’s like a second career being a parent. I sometimes like going to work for a break, and an uninterrupted cup of tea/ coffee. Life’s simple pleasures!

In summary, 

#believeinyourself❤️  #loveyourbody and #bekind 🤗😊❤️‍🩹 

Take care of yourself and subscribe or follow me on Instagram – Joy_Kean86.