Kids will always want something each Christmas and mostly this is pointed towards electronic gadgets and toys. But one hindrance is the fact that not all parents may be able to sustain such a want, having to buckle down and save some bucks for their families to survive.

Making kids understand that such a debacle is something that is beyond their control is hard to do. At their age, they still don’t know what it means to earn and get steady income. But there are some kids who could be enticed to try out the things that they see and this includes instances where you get rid of the old by selling old toys and saving up to buy new ones.

In a sense, this is hitting two birds with one stone. You are getting rid of old stuff that normally stay hidden in your closet and also start to learn how to earn a decent buck. To many earning is the best part but at some point they will understand that getting rid of old toys that may soon find their way to the garbage can, is a golden way of learning to turn trash into gold.

These straitened times have brought out a different kind of holiday spirit in children like Faith: the entrepreneurial spirit of Christmas presents. As many parents cut back on holiday spending this year, their children are figuring out ways to get the money to buy what they really want. They are asking their parents to post ads online to sell their old stuff or to hawk it on eBay. Some are showing up with used gadgets, toys and game consoles at malls and fast-food chains where people congregate.

(Source) The Wall Street Journal

Jewellery for kids are considered acceptable gifts, whether is precious jewellery or trendy accessories. These are great to give out during birthdays, graduations and Christmas. There are, however, a few considerations when planning on gifting jewellery to children.

One of it is to consider how age appropriate the jewellery is. For really younger kids who may still have the tendency to put everything in their mouths, charm bracelets, beaded accessories, or necklaces with lockets are instantly a no-no. There are, however, some baubles and bracelets that should look good and safe on toddlers and smaller children. Kids between the ages of 7-10 may enjoy something very colorful or have the trademark of their favorite characters. Older children may like something really trendy and hip, such as a fashionable childrens necklace made of cool materials, with fancy styles and bright, girly colors.

Take into account the materials used to create the jewellery. Some could be made of nickel and metal, as these are of low cost and, therefore, not much of a loss in case the kids become careless with it. But do consider if the material has lead in it, as this is potentially fatal to them. Kids may also have the tendency to get rashes and allergy from some accessories, so adults are supposed to take note of this. If there is a label, check for content first before buying. Or better yet ask the store about where the piece was made and what materials were used.

If you are giving children fine jewellery, teach them to be responsible for it and also advise them on how to take good care of something precious. Fine jewellery, in fact, must only be worn during special occasions, so do let the child know that this is the deal.

Gifting jewellery and accessories actually teaches these young girls to take care of their personal items better. It’s good training and at the same time a wonderful gift…because what girl doesn’t love jewellery?

Does your toddler love to twist and shout whenever he hears music playing? Be glad! it’s a step in the right direction. Your little one may seem to have only recently caught the dancing bug, but in fact he’s been perfecting those moves for well over a year. Even when you held up your 6-month-old so he could stand stand on your lap, he was probably practicing some rhythmic knee bends. And After a few months after your child took his first unassisted steps, he most likely began to saunter or sway his body from side to side whenever he heard music playing.

The rocking and reeling is an obvious sign of your toddler improving physical activities but don’t overlook all the incredible mental work that also goes into gettin’ joggy with it. When your child dances, messages are quickly sent ot the brains about the body’s orientation inspace. The brain then tells the body exactly how to respond, in which direction your  child’s eyes ought to be pointed, how she should use her arms and brace her legs in order to maintain her sense of balance, and so forth.

You can incorporate dancing into your child’s playtime. Make space so your child can move about freely and safely. Don’t be shy, join in on the fun, even if you have two left feet. Don’t be afraid to get up close and personal. Let your child dance on your feet, and bop around together. Remember that kids love when their parents act silly. It can be a big relief not to feel like someone is always in charge. Happy dancing this Christmas season!

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Nurturing your child’s sense of humor is no joking matter. Laughing loud is a healthy way for her to manage life’s little stresses. Now that Christmas is just around the corner, find a way to make your child laugh, I think it’s the best gift that you can give her.

Nothing is too corny for a toddler, but here’s what typically makes 1-year-olds laugh:

* The ridiculous.- by now, your child has developed a routine and knows what to expect from her world. When you do something out of the ordinary (without frightening her) she may find it humorous. Utterly inane acts, such as wearing your toddler’s pants on your head while changing her diaper, are likely to spark giggles. Those pants, she now knows, belong on her legs, not on your head. Don’t be afraid to silly acts and funny faces.

* The predictable surprise – Babies and toddlers spend many months mastering the idea of object permanence: The concept that things and people exist even when they’re out of sight. Games like peekaboo reinforce the notion of how the world works. Your child knows that you’re hiding behind the chair, and when you confirm her suspicions by jumping out playfully, she’ll be delighted and express that feeling with laughter.

Nurturing your child’s emerging capacity of humor is like presenting her with a lifelong gift. Laughter is a mechanism for pleasure and a powerful tool for coping with life’s difficult moments. So make every effort to make your child laugh, it’s all worth it. Happy laughing!

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Christmas is one of the most awaited time of the year. This is the season that you can have fun with your family without thinking of your work. This is also the time that we go to the mall with our family and buy gifts for friends and relatives. All the excitement makes you lose track of your child in the hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers. The following are no-panic rules that will help you find your child quickly:

Speak up! – Don’t waste your time searching store aisles yourself – alert security immediately or go the information counter for them to announce that your child is missing. You can also teach your child to find a safe adult (such as cashier, guard or a mother with kids) and say, “can you help me find my mom”

Remind your child to stay in the area – Tell your child before you go the mall that she should never leave the store, go out to the parking lot by herself or with someone that she doesn’t know.

Teach names and numbers.- Help your child memorize your address and phone number or you can place a card with your information written on it inside her pocket.

 Carry a photo. – Keep your child’s picture in your wallet or purse. Note his height and weight on the back, and update often. If you’re consistent on reminding your child of all the rules, it will be easy for her to do it. Happy shopping!

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