Personal identity is vital to one’s success in life.  It identifies who you are as a human being.  It will guide you as to the choices you make in life.  This development began as soon as you were born. And the same will be for your child. The words you choose to describe your newborn sets the stage for how they will view themselves in the future. I realize that sounds silly since they can’t understand you.  But they can feel the energy and vibe you are expelling onto them. As they grow into the toddler years, they will begin to differentiate themselves from others. In toda ..read more

It’s the beginning of the holiday season and my grandchildren are already anticipating opening their gifts!  The retail stores don’t make it any easier since they’ve made sure to put all of the favorite toys up front and center. But birthday parties also happen during the holiday seasons and then it becomes a battle of finding an even more unique birthday gift for kids that will outrank their holiday gifts. I just love how excited kids get for their special day! Don’t you? Although I have plenty of time, I have begun to research what new unique birthday gifts for kids are popular.  A ..read more

I have written numerous blogs and why reading to toddlers is a great activity filled with lots of benefits: Develops listening skills Expands their vocabulary Creates bonding opportunities Helps develop concentration Teaches life lessons and social development Finding the time to read isn’t always easy, especially if you have more than one child.  Bedtime is usually the best time to snuggle and curl up for some reading with your child.  If you have already introduced bedtime reading to your toddler, then these words are very familiar to you, “One more story, PLEASE!” So, answer the ..read more

Last month I was blessed with the joy of becoming a grammy for the 3rd time!  Like having multiple children, each time is unique and special.  He is absolutely the cutest.  His big brothers (3 ½ and 2 ½) are so excited.  Now, this may change when he begins to crawl. But that’s a topic for another blog.  ? Even though I’m a preschool teacher and it hasn’t been that long since my other two were born, I always like to refresh myself on the subject of baby’s first year development.  So, I thought I’d share what I’ve found with you. The first thing that comes to mind i ..read more

We spend a minimum of 12 years in school to prepare for life as a grown-up. But most of us are not prepared for parenthood, be it by pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption.  As soon as my husband and I found out that the roles of mommy and daddy were in our future, I began reading books for expecting parents as often as I could. But before I share with you a list of reads for every expecting parent, I want to offer some tips I’ve gathered over the years from personal experience. Only you care that your house isn’t spotless.  Giving your child the attention they need is far more important ..read more

I remember looking for just the right stroller when my sons were born.  So many choices!  Then 29 years later, I began looking for the best stroller to use as a grammy.  Again, so many choices! I’ve done some research for the top strollers of 2021.  Hopefully, it will help you make the right decision. I have even included a list of the best lightweight strollers for grandparents. Best Overall Stroller Baby Jogger City Mini GT2, known for its price and performance UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller and Bassinet, grows with your family. Graco Modes Click Connect Stroller, good from ..read more

First, let me start by saying, I am a mom. grammy, and preschool teacher.  I can share my personal experience with you.  BUT…if you have any major concerns about your child’s development, the best person to ask would be your pediatrician.  Remember, no question is a bad question.  When my first born was around 4 years old, I knew that something was different.  I often wondered, “Is my toddler normal?”  I would give him a direction and he couldn’t follow it.  As he got a little older, I would tell him the answer to something he asked me about, and later he wou ..read more

Besides being the publisher of Fairytale Baby Books, I am a teacher.  And I love watching my preschool students learn skills through fun activities, which brings me to baking with kids as the perfect way to introduce them to a number of skill sets: Math Following directions Organization Improves motor skills Increases vocabulary Importance of cleaning up Patience Hand-eye coordination When it comes to baking, there are loads of easy recipes for kids (Some don’t even require the baking!).  Look these over and pick a few of your favorites.  Just make sure you have all the ingred ..read more

You’ve played outside all day.  Your little ones are hot, tired and need a break.  So, grab a cool drink or maybe a popsicle, and pick some books to read while everyone relaxes.  We often keep toys in every nook and cranny of our home.  But most of us keep children’s books on a shelf in the child’s room.  My experience as a preschool teacher is that kids gravitate to whatever is easiest to grab.  So, place a few baskets of books next to those toys.  Then your little one(s) might pick up a book, instead. Offering a few book baskets is a great way to introduce ..read more