I always tell my patients that a happy parent makes a happy toddler, if only it were so easy. However, there are many ways to ensure you and your child’s well being. But also bear in mind that a half-day with a happy, relaxed parent may be better for your toddler than a full day with a tired, stressed out one.
If your child is at nursery then he or she should be well on the way to learning good social skills; this can also be done at home but it’s hard work and some things are learnt best with one’s peers. Ad hoc music and gym classes are great for development but by the time your toddler is about two years old, your child could benefit from having his or her own independent social time; this can be a big but important step for your whole family. Nursery and home care are not the only two options, there is a third way: play groups. At play groups children learn through both structured and unstructured play and topics include maths, language, science, IT, personal and social development, creativity, art and physical development.
Most areas have one and they are usually open for a couple of hours in the morning. Drop off your toddler and you’ll have some spare time to do with as you will: shopping, housework, errands, work or maybe, just maybe, have a lie-in! My local play group used to give me just enough time to run daily clinic sessions. I used to drop my daughter off at 9am run down the road to work and am still be back in time to pick up the little one for lunch and an afternoon together. It is the perfect, affordable solution for part time workers as well as full time parents.
If you do decide to enroll your child in a local play group there is usually a settling in period; this can be made easier for you both by taking some Aconite 30c. For a few days before going, give your toddler one tablet twice a day and then 2 – 3 times a day for a week once he or she has started the group. This should help with any fears or feelings of uncertainty. Children who suffer with separation issues may benefit from a daily dose of Pulsatilla 30c for a week. You may also want to consider giving a good quality multi vitamin such as ‘Animal Parade’ or ‘Kinder Vital’ daily start a week or two before the toddler starts the group and then continue to help boost your child’s immunity. Play groups and nurseries are the first step towards “proper school” and will build your child’s confidence and independence, moving them positively onward on their journey in life.
