Two blankets, a jumper and a few toys were all it took to keep Jude laughing and playing on a very rainy Wednesday morning. Under this make-shift tent we played several rounds of peek-a-boo, sang every finger-play song I could remember, and Jude had some pretty interesting conversations with his farm animals while feeding them their imaginary breakfast. Although this activity was the highlight of his day, we did manage to squeeze in some time with play dough, crayoning, reading, and of course pulling out every toy in Jude's room, just to be sure everything still worked!
Please share anything you enjoy doing with your grandkids on a rainy-day!
Always something to do,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
How to Build a Blanket Tent
Ten Rainy-Day Games for Children
Rainy-Day Activities for Toddlers
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Can You See What I See? Toyland Express Winner
Learn more about "Toyland Express" at:
Toyland Express/The Scholastic Store
Best regards,
Bubbie and Jude
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Contest Winner
Congratulations to Bobbi for winning Grandbabies101, Midnight Lullaby contest.
And thanks to everyone who entered to win.
Our Bailey Book give-a-way is still open for entry through October 7th! Scholastic is giving away (3) hardcover books! It's easy to enter. Just leave me a comment saying you'd like to win. That's it!
Best regards,
Bubbie
And thanks to everyone who entered to win.
Our Bailey Book give-a-way is still open for entry through October 7th! Scholastic is giving away (3) hardcover books! It's easy to enter. Just leave me a comment saying you'd like to win. That's it!
Best regards,
Bubbie
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Listening to Children
Sometimes things just have a way of working themselves out, if you let them...and we did! All of us grown-ups watched in awe as Remy quietly sat down next to Jude, in the middle of his upset, and simply listened to his rant. Of course, we were clueless as to his explanation, but Remy understood every last word. (Or so, she acted like she did.) All I can tell you is 'it worked,' and after a cute exchange of funny faces, they were back at play.
Magical moments,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share with us your listening practices!
Related Articles:
Listening Skills Activities
Listening to Children
Magical moments,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share with us your listening practices!
Related Articles:
Listening Skills Activities
Listening to Children
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Infants and toddlers Making Music
Jamming with Jude is cheap, and requires no musical background or ability! Simply turn over a few buckets, pitchers or flat-surfaced objects, grab something to bang with, and sit yourself down. (Jude's first choice for sitting was the dog, but he quickly found out that dogs like to move to the beat of a drum, too!)
Since I wasn't too terribly coordinated to drum, Jude handed me two wooden blocks for clapping to his tapping, which worked out great!
Please share some of your musical meetings with your grandbabies!
Making music,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
5 Musical Instruments to Make at Home
Introducing Toddlers to Music
Infants and Toddlers Making Music
Since I wasn't too terribly coordinated to drum, Jude handed me two wooden blocks for clapping to his tapping, which worked out great!
Please share some of your musical meetings with your grandbabies!
Making music,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
5 Musical Instruments to Make at Home
Introducing Toddlers to Music
Infants and Toddlers Making Music
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Grocery Shopping with the Kidlets!
Taking the little ones shopping for groceries doesn't have to be a problem, especially if you follow the rules:
1. Shop at off-hours (2 a.m. to 5 a.m.)
2. Let children buy whatever they want.
3. Allow children to eat whatever they want as you shop.
All joking aside, here are a few tips that worked for me:
- Before shopping everyone was fed, went to the bathroom and already napped.
- I organized my shopping list clustering items on same aisles together (best I could).
- Tried to shop at less busy times.
- Had the kids help find items on grocery list.
- Brought or bought a healthy snack for kids to eat while paying, to avoid the candy temptation at check-out.
How about sharing some favorites that worked for you?
Keeping it fun,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
Grocery Shopping With Toddlers
Simple Grocery Shopping Games
1. Shop at off-hours (2 a.m. to 5 a.m.)
2. Let children buy whatever they want.
3. Allow children to eat whatever they want as you shop.
All joking aside, here are a few tips that worked for me:
- Before shopping everyone was fed, went to the bathroom and already napped.
- I organized my shopping list clustering items on same aisles together (best I could).
- Tried to shop at less busy times.
- Had the kids help find items on grocery list.
- Brought or bought a healthy snack for kids to eat while paying, to avoid the candy temptation at check-out.
How about sharing some favorites that worked for you?
Keeping it fun,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
Grocery Shopping With Toddlers
Simple Grocery Shopping Games
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Sesame Street in 2011
Jude has a captivated audience today, as he sits down and discusses his 'play plans' with some Sesame Street characters. Although Jude did do all the talking, his friends remained attentive and with broad smiles throughout their five minute chat. They seemed to understand what Jude was saying much better than myself. I've got to start coming to more of these meetings!
With some 'googling' I've discovered that Sesame Street has been on the air entertaining and teaching our children since 1969. Over the past year I've had the most fun reconnecting with some of my favorite Sesame Street segments through YouTube. (Oh, Jude likes them too!)
Below, if interested, you can watch a short video on "The History of Sesame Street:
With some 'googling' I've discovered that Sesame Street has been on the air entertaining and teaching our children since 1969. Over the past year I've had the most fun reconnecting with some of my favorite Sesame Street segments through YouTube. (Oh, Jude likes them too!)
Below, if interested, you can watch a short video on "The History of Sesame Street:
P.S. Which children's show(s) holds your grandchild's attention today?
Keep them learning,
Bubbie and Jude
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Bubbles/Helping to Improve Language Development
"Language is a complex set of behaviors. It involves much more than learning words and their meaning. A child needs to have the psycho-motor skills to be ready to learn languages. Playing with bubbles encourages a variety of opportunities to coordinate breathing and movements with the mouth and tongue."
Who knew? And we thought we were just having fun! What an added bonus to know we're contributing to our little-one's language skills. It is pretty amazing to see how quickly the youngest and newest kids on the block figure out, after just a few tries, how to blow a bubble!
(Biggest Bubble Blown This Day went to Jude!)
Ta Dah,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share ways you've found to help promote language with your grand kids and/or kids?
Related Articles:
Blowing Bubbles (Watch the video...adorable!)
Playing With Bubbles
Bubbles to Improve Language Development
Bubbles For Learning (Terrific for older kids)
Who knew? And we thought we were just having fun! What an added bonus to know we're contributing to our little-one's language skills. It is pretty amazing to see how quickly the youngest and newest kids on the block figure out, after just a few tries, how to blow a bubble!
(Biggest Bubble Blown This Day went to Jude!)
Ta Dah,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share ways you've found to help promote language with your grand kids and/or kids?
Related Articles:
Blowing Bubbles (Watch the video...adorable!)
Playing With Bubbles
Bubbles to Improve Language Development
Bubbles For Learning (Terrific for older kids)
Back To Sleep
Love from one curious grandmom, always wanting to know, "What's new?"
Bubbie
Related Article:
Flattened Head(Positional Plagiocephaly)
Babies with Flat Heads on the Rise
How to Correct Positional Plagiocephaly
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Fun in the Pool
Scenario: You're in the pool, having a great time...playing with your turtle float, playing with your scoops and hoops, when suddenly out of nowhere you notice this dark hand on the cement slab, staring you in the face...and this hand, just so happens to be controlled by your own hand!
Question: What should you do?
Solution: Fortunately, this was happening to Jude and he figured he'd play along with the joke, so he poured some water on it for a bit, then walked away hoping it would too...and it did!
Keeping cool,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any advice for 'pool play' with the grandkids?
Related Articles:
Pool Safety
Do Swimming Lessons Keep Children Safe in the Water?
Question: What should you do?
Solution: Fortunately, this was happening to Jude and he figured he'd play along with the joke, so he poured some water on it for a bit, then walked away hoping it would too...and it did!
Keeping cool,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any advice for 'pool play' with the grandkids?
Related Articles:
Pool Safety
Do Swimming Lessons Keep Children Safe in the Water?
Labels:
climbing toys,
float,
pool,
sippy cups,
teachers,
turtle,
water
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
BAILEY/A Book Give-A-Way Contest
Baily is an irresistibly, lovable creation by Harry Bliss; a New York Times best selling illustrator, an award-winning cartoonist and cover artist for the New Yorker magazine. After reading this book with several delighted kindergardeners, I'm confident that Bailey will entertain all who get to spend the day with him!
If you have or know a little one who loves books and lives to giggle, be sure to enter this give-a-way contest. Scholastic Press will send three (3) lucky winners a hardcover copy of Bailey. (Please find contest rules at the bottom of this page. Entering is as easy as submitting a comment with a method of contact. That's all there is to it!)
Contest ended October 7th, 2011/11:59 p.m. (PST)
Bailey
by Harry Bliss
ages 4-8
If you have or know a little one who loves books and lives to giggle, be sure to enter this give-a-way contest. Scholastic Press will send three (3) lucky winners a hardcover copy of Bailey. (Please find contest rules at the bottom of this page. Entering is as easy as submitting a comment with a method of contact. That's all there is to it!)
Contest ended October 7th, 2011/11:59 p.m. (PST)
by Harry Bliss
ages 4-8
Meet Bailey, a dog who surprises and charms his fellow human classmates with his irrepressible antics.
Follow Bailey the dog as he gets ready and goes to school. Should he wear the red or blue collar? Both are so fashionable! Will he be late? That squirrel is a distraction! And what about Bailey's homework? Would you believe he ate it? That is what dogs do, after all.
In this funny new book from the best-selling children's illustrator Harry Bliss, school proves to be an unexpected place for Bailey to do all sorts of things he loves: reading, fetching, painting, digging, singing — and making friends!
Related Link:
Bailey/The Scholastic Store
Official Giveaway Rules:
1. Entry Instructions. Submit a comment explaining why you would like to win, by clicking on the "comment" link at the bottom of this page , with a method of *contact (ex. E-mail address), so I can reach you should you win.
Or
Send an email to shnoozleland@aol.com with a method of *contact (ex. E-mail address). Be sure to write on the SUBJECT line which Giveaway contest you are entering.
7. Taxes. All Federal, State, and Local taxes associated with the receipt of any prize are the sole responsibility of the winner.
8. Disclaimers. The featured product(s) on this blog were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or public relations company representing the product/creator. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by anyone.
In this funny new book from the best-selling children's illustrator Harry Bliss, school proves to be an unexpected place for Bailey to do all sorts of things he loves: reading, fetching, painting, digging, singing — and making friends!
Related Link:
Bailey/The Scholastic Store
Official Giveaway Rules:
1. Entry Instructions. Submit a comment explaining why you would like to win, by clicking on the "comment" link at the bottom of this page , with a method of *contact (ex. E-mail address), so I can reach you should you win.
Or
Send an email to shnoozleland@aol.com with a method of *contact (ex. E-mail address). Be sure to write on the SUBJECT line which Giveaway contest you are entering.
*A valid method of contact is necessary to enter Giveaway contest.
2. Entries Per Person. Entries are limited to one (1) entry per person, per E-mail address, during the Giveaway period, regardless of method of entry. Entries generated by script, macro or other automated means are void.
3. Giveaway Period: The Giveaway entry date begins at 9 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (“PST”) the day of the post. The Giveaway closing date ends as of 11:59 p.m. PST on the date indicated in the post. Winners will be selected from eligible entries properly submitted during the Giveaway Period.
4. Winner Selection. A prize number will be assigned to your entry upon receipt of your entry. A winning number will be generated using Random.org on or shortly after the Giveaway closing date. If your Prize Number matches the Winning Number, and you meet the eligibility requirements and otherwise comply with these Official Giveaway Rules, you win the prize.
5. Winner Notification. Three winners will be notified within three (3) days after the Giveaway Closing Date and will be posted once the prize is claimed by the chosen winners.
6. Claiming Your Prize. Winners must respond to: www.grandbabies101.blogspot.com or www.shnoozleland.com within seven (7) days of notification or forfeit the prize, in which case an alternate winner will be selected.
8. Disclaimers. The featured product(s) on this blog were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or public relations company representing the product/creator. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by anyone.
This blog will make every effort to deliver prizes or have prizes delivered to winner. However unlikely the scenario may be; this blog and its author are not responsible for giveaway prizes that are lost in transit or damaged. This blog is also not responsible if a sponsor/company does not send prize(s). Blog author will communicate with said company(s) several times, in an effort to resolve issue. The owner of this blog is also not responsible or liable for ANY allergic reaction, accident, or injury caused by a product that has been featured, reviewed or given away on this blog.
All GIVEAWAYS are open to US Residents Only
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Lazy, Hazy Days of Summer
We're approaching those last few days of August, and we all seem to be slowing down a bit...even the kids! If I could have squeezed my body onto one of those teeny, molded seats, I would have joined Jude on this lazy, hazy, hot and humid day. Prior to this picture, these toddlers had already worn out all the playground equipment, sang, danced and jumped to all the latest toddler tunes that we could remember before filling their bellies with sweet, juicy watermelon. Looks like they're enjoying a much deserved rest, wouldn't you agree?
Relax and enjoy the end of our warm, weather season,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share an easy 'great-for-summer snack or drink' for the kids!
Related Article:
Nick Jr. Summer Treats for the Kids
Relax and enjoy the end of our warm, weather season,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share an easy 'great-for-summer snack or drink' for the kids!
Related Article:
Nick Jr. Summer Treats for the Kids
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
The Element of Surprise
When I cranked the knob to get old Jack to pop out of his box, it was never as surprising or funny until Jude mastered it himself! Now I find myself laughing just as hard as Jude as he jumps as high as Jack, each and every time he gets to the "pop goes the weasel" part. Although we both know what's coming up, it still cracks us up! This is a toy that's been around, some say since the 1500's, but seems to continue to entertain, even the grandparents among us.
P.S. Let us know some vintage toys that you've found your grandkids to still appreciate and enjoy!
Keep 'em laughing,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Article:
Jack-In-The-Box Toy
P.S. Let us know some vintage toys that you've found your grandkids to still appreciate and enjoy!
Keep 'em laughing,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Article:
Jack-In-The-Box Toy
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Grandparents Day!
Question: What's a hug worth from a grandbaby?
Answer: More than money can buy...and we officially get to cash in on those hugs on September 11th this year, 2011. You see, The United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day in 1978. This special day to honor grandparents was initiated by a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade. (A grandmother of 40!)
Some especially great activities can be found on the site:
Grandparentsday.com
Have you hugged a kid today?
Love,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share your suggestions for fun things to do with the grandkids!
Answer: More than money can buy...and we officially get to cash in on those hugs on September 11th this year, 2011. You see, The United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day in 1978. This special day to honor grandparents was initiated by a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade. (A grandmother of 40!)
Some especially great activities can be found on the site:
Grandparentsday.com
Have you hugged a kid today?
Love,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share your suggestions for fun things to do with the grandkids!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Kids and Weddings
It was a gorgeous day for a wedding and Jude was anxiously waiting to be seated while discussing the ceremony program. Being the youngest to be invited, Jude demonstrated his ability to stay perfectly quiet during the ceremony, and later brought down the house with his dance moves on the ballroom floor. It was a great time for all with loving family and friends to help share in the uniting and celebrating of the newly married couple!
Wonderful memories will follow for all!
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Share with us your good or not-so-good wedding celebrations with the kids!
Related Articles:
Wedding Clothes for Children
Inviting Kids to Weddings
Wonderful memories will follow for all!
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Share with us your good or not-so-good wedding celebrations with the kids!
Related Articles:
Wedding Clothes for Children
Inviting Kids to Weddings
Friday, August 12, 2011
Fast Food Playgrounds Are Not As Clean As You Think
A few days ago I decided to take my grandson to a fast food restaurant for a lunch and play-date. With his "kid's meal" in one hand, and Jude's hand in my other, I found a great spot, close to the playground, to set down his food for feasting. Not able to hold back from the fun, Jude took off as I chased behind him and found myself climbing up and through the tubular maze, ending with a twisty slide back down to 'start.' It was all good fun, but far from clean! I did not expect to see big pockets of animal droppings all along the way. Needless to say I had to take a very disappointed toddler away before we had a chance to eat or go around a second time! I drove him home and back to our favorite park by his house. We got to have our lunch, play-date in a clean playground. I've learned my lesson! 1. Be sure to check out the playground area before allowing the children to play. 2. Dorothy was right...there's no place like home!
P.S. I did call the restaurant to let them know the unsanitary conditions of their children's play equipment.
P.S.S. Please share ideas and/or experiences similar to mine. Always looking to make the world cleaner and safer for our little ones!
Learning as we go,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Article:
Fast Food Play Places Are Not As Clean As You Think!
P.S. I did call the restaurant to let them know the unsanitary conditions of their children's play equipment.
P.S.S. Please share ideas and/or experiences similar to mine. Always looking to make the world cleaner and safer for our little ones!
Learning as we go,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Article:
Fast Food Play Places Are Not As Clean As You Think!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Tactile Play
So there was this stick. This was no ordinary stick. This stick was found by Jude and became his magical find for the day. Where ever Jude went, so went this stick. And sharing was out of the question! After all, sticks like this one are not easy to find, especially when you live in a neighborhood filled with gardeners ready to clean-up and remove precious treasures such as this, before they hit the ground!
Sticks, flowers, bushes and other natural materials are starting to catch Jude's eye and sense of touch. We brought this stick over to the sand for some drawing fun and it lasted for a good ten minutes before it chipped away into a 2 inch stub, which was actually perfect for digging out that little pebble stuck under some dry brush!
Exploring nature in a safe and fun way,
Bubbie and Jude
Any tips on nature outings you'd like to share?
Related Article:
What Are Tactile Materials
Sticks, flowers, bushes and other natural materials are starting to catch Jude's eye and sense of touch. We brought this stick over to the sand for some drawing fun and it lasted for a good ten minutes before it chipped away into a 2 inch stub, which was actually perfect for digging out that little pebble stuck under some dry brush!
Exploring nature in a safe and fun way,
Bubbie and Jude
Any tips on nature outings you'd like to share?
Related Article:
What Are Tactile Materials
Monday, August 1, 2011
Cooperative Play
"It takes a village," or in "Jude's World" it takes five toddlers and a water fountain to fill a bucket.
It's great fun to watch these cuties' work together towards a common goal. Remy held the bucket, Jude kept the water flowing, Ella carried the bucket back to their play spot while Arden and Allisa cheered them all on! Of course, the process of filling the bucket was the fun part. Once the bucket was filled and placed back where they wanted it, one of the sweeties conveniently knocked the bucket down and they had to start all over again! Ain't life grand?
Fun in the sun,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have you any solutions for keeping our kids learning and playing together?
Related Articles:
Tips On Helping Children Learn To Cooperate
Teaching Your Child To Play With Others
It's great fun to watch these cuties' work together towards a common goal. Remy held the bucket, Jude kept the water flowing, Ella carried the bucket back to their play spot while Arden and Allisa cheered them all on! Of course, the process of filling the bucket was the fun part. Once the bucket was filled and placed back where they wanted it, one of the sweeties conveniently knocked the bucket down and they had to start all over again! Ain't life grand?
Fun in the sun,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have you any solutions for keeping our kids learning and playing together?
Related Articles:
Tips On Helping Children Learn To Cooperate
Teaching Your Child To Play With Others
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Katie, Katie, Lovely Lady!
Jude is tickled pink about his new cousin, Katie! She has no idea the things that Jude has in store for her. Like, how to hold a peach when you're trying to suck out the juice, where to hide when you don't want anyone to know you're pooping in your diaper, and of course, jumping on the bed then plopping on a mound of pillows! He's not yet aware that this lovely baby Katie is only one week old and still needing a little R & R before his games begin. I think this boy is going to do just fine with his first cousin, and I'm sure we'll soon see Katie teaching Jude a thing or two!
I'd love to hear your ideas on helping toddlers feel comfortable around newborns!
Best wishes from a very happy, new,
Bubbie and cousin Jude!
Related Article:
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Sharing Toddlers
"Share"..."Don't push"..."Take turns" are just a few of the phrases you'll hear from the grownups when our little playmates get together for their play dates. It's getting a bit easier with kids they're familiar with, but as soon as a newbie comes along, we're clearing our throats for more words of encouragement. A bucket of water with heavy duty paintbrushes (*all the same size, of course) seems to be the easiest activity for sharing right now...especially with the warm weather drying us off before we get too wet!
P.S. *I bought a bag of 10 brushes at Lakeshore Learning Supplies. Check teacher's supply stores for tons of great learning tools.
(Besides using the brushes for tracing our shadows, hands, feet and drawing, we also dip small plastic cars in the water to make car tracks on the ground!)
Let me know if you have any suggestions for helping kids learn to share!
Best,
Bubbie and Jude
Teaching Your Toddler To Share
P.S. *I bought a bag of 10 brushes at Lakeshore Learning Supplies. Check teacher's supply stores for tons of great learning tools.
(Besides using the brushes for tracing our shadows, hands, feet and drawing, we also dip small plastic cars in the water to make car tracks on the ground!)
Let me know if you have any suggestions for helping kids learn to share!
Best,
Bubbie and Jude
Teaching Your Toddler To Share
Labels:
don't push,
play dates,
playmates,
share,
take turns
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Hydrating Toddlers
The days are getting hotter and Jude is playing harder. Fortunately, Jude likes to take water breaks, so I've always got a cuppy filled with cool water waiting for him in his car-mobile. Another favorite rehydrator of his are grapes and watermelon pieces at snack time! To protect this little guy during the summer months, I also keep him lathered in sunscreen and look for shady spots to play. The only issue is the old hat trick...if I could only get him to keep one on his head! Any and all suggestions are welcome and appreciated!
Happy summer months,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
How Much Water Should My Toddler Drink Everyday
Summer Fun and Fitness
How Much Water Should Your Child Be Drinking
Happy summer months,
Bubbie and Jude
Related Articles:
How Much Water Should My Toddler Drink Everyday
Summer Fun and Fitness
How Much Water Should Your Child Be Drinking
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Kids Helping Kids
Jude enjoyed being helped, as much as his friend enjoyed helping! The grown-ups all applauded and whooped it up, which caused the children to look for more ways to help one another. Modeling and encouraging kindness certainly pays off for everyone!
Respectfully yours,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What methods have you used to teach your grandkids and/or kids kindness and caring?
Related Article:
It's Always Cool To Be Kind
Respectfully yours,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What methods have you used to teach your grandkids and/or kids kindness and caring?
Related Article:
It's Always Cool To Be Kind
Friday, June 24, 2011
Seesaws and other Playground Fun
Not only is this playground seesaw a four-seater, but it's spring won't allow anyone to be dropped to the ground, like when I was a kidlet! What a great improvement! It took us several tries as kids to figure out that you always wanted your turn with someone lighter than yourself. I can still feel the "thud" when I would hit the ground unexpectedly, and my "supposed" friend would take off to play on something else...like the swings. Well, that was Jude's next stop after the seesaw and then the slides, and then the climbing toy...and then, and then, this bubbie was ready for the sleeping toy!
Happy playing,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What's your grandchild's favorite playground toy?
Happy playing,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What's your grandchild's favorite playground toy?
Monday, June 20, 2011
Ordinary Household Items for Learning and Discovery
As long as there's a house full of stuff, you can never run out of fun for the kids!
A few slightly damp sponges were all it took to keep this toddler amused and busy for quite some time. Jude started out cleaning the surface of the table, and soon discovered the joy of wiping over and around walls, chairs and toys. Good thing the dog wasn't around, or he would have gotten the "once over," too!
Keeping it interesting,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any play suggestions using ordinary household items?
Related Article:
Ordinary Materials to Support Discovery and Learning
A few slightly damp sponges were all it took to keep this toddler amused and busy for quite some time. Jude started out cleaning the surface of the table, and soon discovered the joy of wiping over and around walls, chairs and toys. Good thing the dog wasn't around, or he would have gotten the "once over," too!
Keeping it interesting,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any play suggestions using ordinary household items?
Related Article:
Ordinary Materials to Support Discovery and Learning
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Dining Out With The Kids
Want some exercise in portion control and pushing the old heartbeat up a notch or two? Just go out to eat with a toddler! In no time at all you'll be racing out of your favorite restaurant having finished only half your meal. This works every time! You might even get a little extra jogging in if your munchkin is slick enough to Houdini it out of the high chair, and go for their "meet and greet the diners" run. So put on your sneakers, come semi-hungry and let the games begin!
Laughing all the way,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any great "eating out" restaurant tips with the little ones?
Related Article:
How To Get Kids To Behave In A Restaurant
Laughing all the way,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any great "eating out" restaurant tips with the little ones?
Related Article:
How To Get Kids To Behave In A Restaurant
Labels:
dining,
eating,
exercise,
portion control,
restaurant,
tips
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Toddler Playgroups
Jude and I began going to the park months ago as a way of stretching our legs and enjoying the clean, fresh air. We never expected to end up with a great playgroup! On any given day we can have as few as 4 children and as many as 20! Socializing consists of sharing healthy treats for snack time, gathering the kids for circle games, and if time allows breaking out the bubbles and wands, blankets for coloring or big brushes for water painting. The kids play hard and are ready for lunch and a nap by the time we get them home, which makes for a very happy grown-up!
Keep 'em laughing,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Please share your (grandkids or kids) playgroup experiences!
Related Articles:
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Laughter Does a Body Good!
What's so funny? All I said was, "Peek-a-boo!" while popping out from under a mound of pillows. This game elicited squealing, giggling and some hardy laughs for more than 20 minutes!
"Experts say a well-developed sense of humor can boost a person's immune system, contribute to a more optimistic outlook on life, and increase self-esteem."
Jude and I are finding lots of times to laugh, whether it's pushing him in his cardboard box around his room, playing with Jude's Jack-in-the box or giving him surprised looks when my hat falls off of my head.
"What's more, research shows that a sense of humor is learned, not inherited. "
Well, we are having a great time learning how to have a sense of humor. Fortunately, his parents love to laugh and have always shared this with Jude, so I have no doubt that this little honey will end up with a considerably boosted immune system!
Keep 'em smiling,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What makes your grandkids laugh?
Related Article:
What's funny to a toddler?
"Experts say a well-developed sense of humor can boost a person's immune system, contribute to a more optimistic outlook on life, and increase self-esteem."
Jude and I are finding lots of times to laugh, whether it's pushing him in his cardboard box around his room, playing with Jude's Jack-in-the box or giving him surprised looks when my hat falls off of my head.
"What's more, research shows that a sense of humor is learned, not inherited. "
Well, we are having a great time learning how to have a sense of humor. Fortunately, his parents love to laugh and have always shared this with Jude, so I have no doubt that this little honey will end up with a considerably boosted immune system!
Keep 'em smiling,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. What makes your grandkids laugh?
Related Article:
What's funny to a toddler?
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Learning The Alphabet
"Most children begin recognizing some letters between the ages of 2 and 3 and can identify most letters between 4 and 5. This means that you can start teaching your child the alphabet when he's around 2 — but don't expect full mastery for some time."
Jude's playing with magnetic letters has become a learning experience for me, too! First he figured out they can stick, followed by the discovery that some letters match, and I believe he's now trying to figure out how to line them up to make patterns. Learning the letters will come, there's just so many other things that this toddler needs to explore first!
Best,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have any good tips on teaching the ABC's?
Related Articles:10 Ways To teach the Alphabet
Suggestions for Learning the Alphabet
Should I Teach the Alphabet before Kindergarden
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Educational Toys
The advertisement read, "This ingenious, fun-to-use phone lets children hear themselves talk…so kids can really focus on every sound they say! Perfect for exploring letter sounds, phoneme blending, sound manipulation and more, the molded plastic phone is sized just for kids, with a lightweight, easy-grip handle." Obviously I had to buy this right away for my grandson. I couldn't wait to watch the surprised expression on his face as he'd hear himself talk. What the copy on the package should have added was, "...and just in case your children prefer puzzles, expect them to try to fit every toy they have into the fun-to-use phone's openings and build from there!" I must admit, I spent a lot of time listening to myself talk into this ingenious invention while Jude slept. It will be fun and educational once he's ready!
Happy learning,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. I'd love to hear about some educational toys you've found worthwhile buying for the kids! Thanks!
Related article:
Unique and Creative Toys for Kids
Happy learning,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. I'd love to hear about some educational toys you've found worthwhile buying for the kids! Thanks!
Related article:
Unique and Creative Toys for Kids
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Cardboard Boxes Stir The Imagination
It all started with an empty Pampers box. Darn that last diaper! I simply couldn't resist introducing Jude to "the empty box." I knew it would be love at first site. The first thing Jude did was to climb in for a ride. As the designated driver, I had the honor of pulling this precious cargo from room to room while he repeatedly asked for more! After I pooped out, Jude filled it with balls, and drove it around himself for a while. We've got lots more to do with this great toy as we break her in! Old favorites never die!
Here's to fun,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How about sharing some of your great ideas for box play?
Related Article:
Fun With Cardboard Boxes
Here's to fun,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How about sharing some of your great ideas for box play?
Related Article:
Fun With Cardboard Boxes
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Problem Solving
Going through a dog door is no easy task, as I learned watching Jude deal with the problem. His first decision was to assess the height and width of the opening from the outside. Once he convinced himself that he could fit, he proceeded to push his way in, with no hands, of course. Looking back at his accomplishment gave him great satisfaction, and that I believe is why he had to try it ten more times! Poor dog, had to wait his turn!
"Nothing can take the place of persistence." (Calvin Coolidge)
"It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with my problems longer." (Albert Einstein)
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How do your grandchildren deal with their problems?
Related Article:
Problem Solving In Action
"Nothing can take the place of persistence." (Calvin Coolidge)
"It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with my problems longer." (Albert Einstein)
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How do your grandchildren deal with their problems?
Related Article:
Problem Solving In Action
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Music Does A Body Good
"Research shows that kids who are actively involved in music (who play it or sing it regularly):
Music does a body good,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have you any experiences to share regarding children and music?
Related Article:
Introducing Toddlers to Music
Benefits of Music
- do better in reading and math when they start school
- are better able to focus and control their bodies
- play better with others and have higher self-esteem"
Music does a body good,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have you any experiences to share regarding children and music?
Related Article:
Introducing Toddlers to Music
Benefits of Music
Friday, April 22, 2011
Easter Egg Hunt
When I was a teen we used to play, "How many kids can squish into a Volkswagon Beetle at one time?" Today as a grandmom the game of the day was, "How many toddlers can we get to sit still long enough, to snap one picture?" I'm proud to announce that it only took six adults, and many clicks on two cameras to come up with this miraculous shot! Not bad though, if you consider the amount of treats these sweeties just finished off during and after their Egg Hunt.
Nap time for all!
Happy Easter,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have any cute pics of your cuties? Send them in. Happy to show them off! (Send jpg's to shnoozleland@aol.com)
P.S.S. Any tips on picture taking (toddlers)?
Related Articles:
Plastic Easter Eggs and Ideas For Toddlers
Toddlers Easter Egg Party
15 Non-Candy Easter Egg Fillers
Nap time for all!
Happy Easter,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Have any cute pics of your cuties? Send them in. Happy to show them off! (Send jpg's to shnoozleland@aol.com)
P.S.S. Any tips on picture taking (toddlers)?
Related Articles:
Plastic Easter Eggs and Ideas For Toddlers
Toddlers Easter Egg Party
15 Non-Candy Easter Egg Fillers
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Good Times With Toddlers
I've enjoyed watching Jude play with his maze for months, but he's now taken it to an exciting new level. Ladies and Gentleman, we now have sound! (This must be what audiences felt like when "talkies" were introduced.) He's stepped into the world of make-believe. As he moves the threaded, wooden pieces along the loop-d-loop wired paths, he changes his sounds as his adventures unfold in his imagination.
Can't wait to see and hear what tomorrow will bring!
Toddlers are too cute,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How do you, or have you had fun with your toddler?
Related Article:
Good Times With Toddlers
Can't wait to see and hear what tomorrow will bring!
Toddlers are too cute,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. How do you, or have you had fun with your toddler?
Related Article:
Good Times With Toddlers
Monday, April 11, 2011
Birthday Parties!
There's not a whole lot that can top a "bounce house" for a two year old's birthday party. (Not in Jude's mind, anyway.) As long as you have a big enough back yard, or a park to set them up in...you are good to go! These outdoor playgyms are incredibly fun for the kids, as well as the few brave adults pulled in by their apprehensive toddlers. Closest thing to this that I got to do as a kid was to bounce on the sofa or bed. And we didn't have the encouragement of our parents standing by, cheering us on. It was more like, "if I catch you jumping on that sofa one more time.........!"(you know the rest). Ahh, the good "new" days!
Happy Birthday, Jude!
Love,
Bubbie
P.S. What have your grandkids most enjoyed doing for their birthday parties?
Related Articles:
Labels:
bed,
birthday parties,
bounce house,
cheering,
jumping,
kids,
sofa
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Wooden Puzzles
I think I love wooden puzzles as much as Jude does! He can sit quietly with them for at least ten minutes now. Not only do they help develop cognitive learning and fine motor skills, but they don't require batteries. No batteries! I can actually hear us talk during this play. There's no repetitive noises! I'm not running around trying to pull batteries out of another toy, just to replace it in the "no longer able to play" toy. Wooden puzzles are the best!
Quiet play rules,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any suggestions for your favorite wooden puzzles for our little ones?
Related Article:
Guide On Choosing Toddler Puzzle
Quiet play rules,
Bubbie and Jude
P.S. Any suggestions for your favorite wooden puzzles for our little ones?
Related Article:
Guide On Choosing Toddler Puzzle
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