Reader Question: Gentle Ways to End Toddler Pacifier Use

by on October 17, 2011
in parenting · 36 Comments

The following was written by editor Kara Fleck.

Recently I received a question from a reader looking for some help.

Maria asks, “My 3yo uses a pacifier at nap and nighttime, and occasionally when she’s feeling extra-vulnerable. It never comes downstairs from the bedroom, though.  For dental reasons, she needs to stop. I want to respect her ability to come to this in her own time and way, but I fear she will not do so on her own.

I am looking for readers to share personal experiences of how they helped older toddlers stop pacifier use.  Thanks.”

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Simple As That: Journaling Big Feelings

by on October 14, 2011
in character · 13 Comments

childwriting

As parents, we know that the source of much frustration for children is an inability to communicate what they are feeling – particularly when those feelings are big and scary or upsetting.  A few months ago, we discussed some peaceful and positive solutions for anger and hitting.

Several weeks later, a friend of mine emailed me to share with me an unexpected and powerful outlet for these big feelings: journaling.

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Kid Friendly Meal Using Pumpkin 3-Ways

by on October 12, 2011
in food and nutrition · 19 Comments

The following is by contributor Christen Babb.

 

Pumpkins inspire me. They are truly one of nature’s blank canvasses.

Pumpkins are best known for their ability to be carved into a myriad of artistic masterpieces, decorating the doorsteps of homes across America. However, this ever-versatile gourd can also play the starring role in both savory and sweet foods – from soups and raviolis to pies and even ice-cream!

Since I grew up not celebrating Halloween, I tend to associate pumpkins with the latter: food.  Not only are they extremely versatile in recipes, their nutritional value is often underestimated. Known as a “superfood“, pumpkins pack a punch of  B-vitamins alongside their  mellow,  inviting,  and quintessentially American  flavor.

Using pumpkin as my inspiration , I’m bringing you a nutritious and delicious pumpkin-packed meal:  Healthy Chicken Bites (with Pumpkin!) + Cheesy Pumpkin Polenta Fries + Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars

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Get to Know Emily Carter

by on October 10, 2011
in showcase · 1 Comment

Friends, in the time since this post was set for publication, Emily and her family have received some devastating news. We grieve with Emily, Patrick, and Miles and lift them up in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

The following post is an interview with long-time Simple Kids contributor Emily Carter, of the Pilot’s Wife.  I thought that Simple Kids readers would enjoy getting to know her a little better.

You’ve been a writer for Simple Kids for some time now, but I know that you also keep another blog, The Pilot’s Wife.  Can you tell me a bit about yourself and the blog?

Thanks Kara!  Well, I’m married to a pilot (of course) and we have an almost-3-year-old, Miles, with another baby due in early March.  We do a lot of traveling and a lot of moving! I’m an elementary teacher by trade, but I’m taking this year off as we have some big changes ahead.  My husband accepted a job with the Air National Guard recently and we’ll be going to training for that in the next few months. Read more about us here.

 

What inspired you to start The Pilot’s Wife?

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Weekend Links

by on October 9, 2011
in showcase · 1 Comment
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