How to Help Your Children Communicate Better

The Importance of Effective Communication

Knowing how to communicate effectively is an important skill, and can help someone have a more successful, easier life. For young children, though, communication may not come naturally. Learning communication skills early in life gives kids an advantage, and as parents, we can help them develop these vital skills.

Helping Your Children Communicate Better

The first step in helping a child learn to communicate well is to make sure there are no barriers standing in the way. If you notice that your child is struggling, discuss it with your pediatrician to rule out any difficulties with speech or hearing, or issues like autism spectrum conditions or language barriers. Once any barriers to communication have been resolved, there are some simple steps you can take to boost your child’s communication skills.

• Talk to the child. This is one of the easiest ways to encourage communication, and you can start before the child is verbal. As you and your little one navigate the world, narrate what is happening, describing the scenery and whatever you are doing. Later, keep the conversation going, being careful to create an atmosphere of open conversation, where the children can say whatever they want to say.
• Encourage listening. Listening is just as important as talking, and perhaps more important, so this is something you will want to impress upon your child. The best way to do this is to be a good listener yourself.
• Encourage literacy skills. Developing strong reading and writing skills can vastly improve your child’s ability to communicate. This is another easy thing to work on with your children, by reading and writing with them from an early age.

Effectively Communicating with Your Children

To teach your children how to effectively communicate, you need to model effective communication skills. Communication can be verbal, and this is not just the words we say but also the way we say them. It can also be nonverbal, and this includes things like facial expressions, eye contact, hand gestures, physical touch, and personal space. You can sharpen these skills and better communicate with your children with some practice.

• Practice active listening to help your children feel heard. To show you are listening, use encouraging and affirming gestures, nodding and smiling. Get on the same eye level as your children and ask questions to encourage them to give more details and improve their own communication skills.
• Reflective listening shows children you care about what they are saying. Mirror what the child is saying, repeating the child’s statement with different words, giving your child space to express emotions in a judgement-free zone.
• Use clear and specific language. Be kind, to set a positive example, and do not use derogatory words. The conversations you have with your children should make them feel safe, loved, and respected.
• Avoid bribing your children with rewards. Instead, set clear and realistic expectation, praise good behavior, and calmly use consequences to encourage better behavior.
• Talk about feelings to help develop emotional intelligence. Listen to your children when they express their feelings verbally, considering their point of view and responding with empathy rather than judgement. When a child is expressing feelings in a nonverbal way, help put those feelings into words, to improve communication.
• Catch your children doing the right thing. Notice specific actions and give praise, to help build a child’s confidence and helps them identify the behaviors you want.
• Connect in light-hearted ways. Parenting is serious, but having fun with your children is important. Have light-hearted conversations, and find ways to relate to your children, paying attention to their interests and sharing jokes. Be careful to laugh with your child, but never at your child.
• Focus on behavior when you need to correct your child. When you are upset, avoid criticizing your child as a person, instead directing your comments at the behavior. Instead of saying “You are messy” say “I don’t like it when you leave your things on the floor of your room.”
• Set a good example. You are your children’s first teacher, and your actions are at least as important as your instruction.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Likes to Help Families Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Things to Consider When Looking for Daycare

Putting Your Little One into Daycare

It can be unsettling to leave your new baby in the hands of other people, but for most families, two incomes are a necessity. That means both parents must return to work, and someone must watch the baby. There are plenty of options available, from Grandma to nannies to babysitters, but the most common option in the U.S. is daycare. More affordable than a nanny and more reliable than a grandparent- no offense intended, Grandma! – daycare is the practical solution for many families.

Advantages of Daycare

Daycare can happen at a daycare center or at someone’s home, and it offers many benefits, both for the parents and the child. In a good daycare center, children get plenty of supervised socialization, under the watchful eye of nurturing, qualified caregivers. Daycare centers are reliable, open on a set schedule, and typically provide care from infancy through toddlerhood, and sometimes even into the elementary school years. They have set schedules and policies, and follow specific caregiver to child ratios, depending on age.

Drawbacks of Daycare

While daycare is comparatively inexpensive, it can still add up. If you have multiple children, a nanny may be a more cost-effective solution. Another drawback is that babies who attend daycare are exposed to more germs than those who stay home or with a family member, so you can expect your child to get sick more often. Of course, there is a theory that this strengthens the immune system and makes them less likely to contract illnesses in later childhood, but that is not always the case. Additionally, when your child gets sick, it increases your likelihood of catching the same illness, resulting in missed work. And while daycare centers have pretty reliable hours, they tend to run on the local school schedule and may be closed on holidays.

Comparing In-Home Daycare to a Center

Daycare centers are licensed by the state, and have different groups for different ages, much like a school. By contrast, in-home daycare is, as the name implies, run in someone’s home. Typically, an in-home daycare provider has children at home and is taking in other people’s children to facilitate being a stay at home parent. Some states require in-home providers to be licensed, but not all, so pay attention to your state’s laws while considering your options. And while daycare centers have a staff of trained and licensed providers, in-home daycare doesn’t require training. In a home, children are typically not separated by age, and there is often not a defined child-to-caregiver ration. What’s more, if an in-home caregiver gets sick, you will need to find your own backup, but because daycare centers have a full staff, there is always a sub at the ready. Still, many parents prefer in-home daycare, because there are fewer children, and that can mean fewer illnesses and more one-on-one attention.

Choosing the Right Daycare for Your Child

So, how do you determine which daycare is right for your child? Start by doing some research. Because many high-quality daycares have waiting lists, it is wise to start this process before the baby is born. Get recommendations from people you know, including friends, family members, and your pediatrician. Check the daycare’s accreditation, hours, and references, and if something seems “off”, cross it off your list. Visit the center in person to see if it meets your expectations, and pay attention to things like interactions between caregivers and children, sanitation practices, and safety measures. Before you make your final decision, drop by unannounced in the middle of the day to see how it truly operates, when no one is expecting you.  Finally, ask questions, to make sure it is the right fit for your family. These questions can include things like:

• What is your childcare philosophy?
• What is your child-to-caregiver ratio?
• How much experience/training do your caregivers have?
• Are the children always separated by age/developmental stage?
• What is your policy on illness?
• How do you handle problems like a defiant child or a baby who won’t stop crying?
• What is the daily schedule?
• Do you provide food, or do the parents bring it in?
• How involved are the parents?
• How do you handle parent communication?
• Do the children leave the center at any time?
• Are there cameras in the center to allow parents to observe?
• How do you handle security?

Come up with other questions, based on your concerns, and make sure the daycare you choose can answer them appropriately. Then, once you’ve enrolled your child, be sure to keep communication flowing, so that you and your child’s caregivers can have a cooperative relationship that is beneficial to all of you.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Loves Helping Families Grow and Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How Fighting with Your Partner in Front of Your Kids Can Impact Them

The Reality of Fighting with Your Partner

No matter how healthy the relationship, two people living together are eventually going to have disagreements. Parents are no exception, and the occasional squabble is to be expected. Fighting between parents becomes problematic, though, when it escalates into heightened conflict. Research indicates that high conflict parental relationships can have a negative impact on the children. Do you know how to handle your disputes in a way that is healthy for your family?

How Fighting Affects You

Whether you are physically fighting or just having a heated argument, it takes a toll on your body. Because of the well-documented fight or flight response that all humans have, your body will have certain physical reactions. Because your body will need more oxygen, your breathing rate will increase, and you may feel like you are choking or suffocating, or you may experience chest tightness and pain. The blood supply to your head may decrease, making you feel dizzy and lightheaded, and it may even blur your vision. You may experience dry mouth, nausea, and diarrhea because of increased digestive activity, and your large muscle groups may tense up, causing you to feel exhausted, with aches and pains. You might even tremble or shake.

How Your Fights Affect Your Children

When parents fight in front of their children, it negatively affects the children, too. It increases their stress hormones, disrupts the way they process emotions, hampers their cognitive performance, and increases their risk of depression. Seeing their parents fight makes children feel insecure and concerned about the stability of their family, and it can damage the relationship between the parents and children. Frequent or intense fighting creates a frightening stressful environment, and it can interfere with their normal, healthy development. Worse, parental conflict can cause long-term mental health effects. Children whose parents fight often may experience decreased cognitive performance in the long term and can limit their ability to form healthy relationships. It can lead to behavioral problems like increased aggression and delinquency and has even been linked to issues like eating disorders, substance use, and a negative outlook on life. There is extensive research to show that a high-conflict environment in childhood can lead to a host of problems in adulthood.

Mitigating the Impact of Conflict

So, what can you do to create a safe home environment for your children? People have disagreements, but it is important to manage your disputes in a way that is healthy for all involved. Start by trying not to fight in front of the children. If you find that a discussion is beginning to get heated, take a time out to regroup. Model effective problem solving strategies, and refrain from destructive practices like name-calling, insults, threats of leaving, physical aggression, giving the silent treatment, or just giving in. Rather, talk to your partner in a calm moment and agree to certain ground rules, like taking turns to talk, validating each other’s feelings and point of view, and being respectful and courteous. If you do argue in front of the children, talk about it with them. Reassure them that it is not their fault, and it is not an indication of bigger problems. Let them know you are still a strong family, and that people can love each other, even if they disagree. If you feel like you cannot control your disagreements and remain respectful, seek counseling to help you resolve your differences and find productive solutions.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Wants to Help Families Grow and Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Everything You Need to Know About Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Making Sense of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Often called “crib death,” sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a devastating issue affecting families all over the world. This tragic and mysterious phenomenon occurs with an otherwise healthy baby unexpectedly and suddenly dies, typically during sleep. While SIDS is rare, it is still one of the top causes of death for infants under a year old. Because research is ongoing, we now have insight into the factors that can reduce or increase the risk of SIDS, and steps parents and caregivers can take to create a safer sleeping environment. Here, we look at SIDS, its potential causes, and how you can help reduce the risk for your baby.

SIDS: An Overview

SIDS typically occurs in babies less than a year old, who seem healthy, and it happens while they are sleeping. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed that SIDS could be caused by problems with the part of the infant’s brain that controls breathing and waking from sleep. Most of the time, no explanation can be found for the child’s death, but researchers have determined some factors that put babies at a higher risk of crib death. It is known that babies who sleep on their stomachs are 12.9 times more likely to die of SIDs than those who sleep on their backs. Why does sleep position make such a big difference? Babies sleeping on their stomachs are more likely to rebreathe exhaled air, leading to lower oxygen levels and a buildup of carbon dioxide, which can potentially cause suffocation. Additionally, babies sleeping on their stomachs sleep deeper, for longer stretches, are more likely to overheat, and may experience sudden drops in blood pressure. It all adds up to a higher risk of SIDS.

Why Does SIDS Happen?

It used to be thought that SIDS affected healthy babies at random, but the theory on that has changed. Now, researchers believe that multiple risk factors combine to cause a baby to die from SIDS. Even if a baby seems perfectly healthy, there may be underlying factors that put them at risk. The condition is not completely understood, but we are beginning to understand what raises the risk. In some babies, the part of the brain that is supposed to counteract dangerous breathing conditions is underdeveloped. There may also be a connection between SIDS and low levels of a particular enzyme, or the presence of certain genes. While these underlying problems do not mean the baby absolutely will die of SIDS, they can combine with other risk factors to cause a dangerous situation. While previous theories have been floated, linking SIDS to vomiting, choking, illness, or immunizations, these have been disproven.

What Are the Risk Factors for SIDS

Many of the known risk factors for SIDS can be avoided, so it is important for parents to understand them, to avoid as many as possible. In addition to stomach sleeping risk factors include:

• Brain defects
• Respiratory infections
• Low birth weight
• Premature birth, or multiples
• Family history of SIDS
• Race (the risk is twice as high for African American and Native American babies)
• Gender (males are at higher risk than females)
• A mother under 20 years of age
• Overheating
• Co-sleeping
• Unsafe or old crib
• Too-soft bedding or objects in the crib
• Using a sleep positioner or wedge
• Secondhand smoke
• The use of drugs or alcohol during pregnancy

Reducing Your Baby’s Risk of SIDS

Because the cause of SIDS is not known, the condition is not preventable. However, you can reduce your baby’s risk by being proactive. Babies should always sleep on their backs, rather than their stomachs or sides. Using a pacifier can also reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS, but make sure not to use a cord or attach the pacifier to the baby’s clothing, bedding, or a stuffed animal. Babies who sleep in the same room as their parents are at lower risk, so keep your baby close, but don’t co-sleep. Don’t let your baby get overheated, and don’t allow napping in the car seat, stroller, swing, or carrier for any longer than necessary. Stop swaddling when the baby begins to roll over, because that can increase the risk of suffocation. Put your baby to bed on a firm, flat crib mattress with a fitted sheet and no other bedding, soft toys, or stuffed animals until the first birthday. Get your baby vaccinated, and breastfeed if you can, for at least six months.

Support for Families Affected by SIDS

Losing a baby to SIDS is devastating. Aside from the pain of losing your little one, SIDS takes an emotional toll, particularly as it is mandatory in SIDS death for an investigation and autopsy to be performed. Losing a baby this way can strain the relationship between the parents and impact any other children in the family, as well. It is vital to get support, whether from a support group or through counseling, to help you cope with this loss.

Start Your Healthy, Happy Family with Center for Vasectomy Reversal

Bringing healthy babies safely into the world is a passion for Center for Vasectomy Reversal. That is why we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Introduce Your Child to a New Sibling

Introducing a New Sibling

Is there anything more special than the bond between siblings? When siblings have a good relationship, it can result in a lifelong friendship and invaluable support. Get your children’s friendship off to the right start with these tips from Center for Vasectomy Reversal on how to introduce your child to a new sibling.

Getting Ready for Baby

Telling your child about the impending arrival of a sibling should happen well before the baby is born. As a rule of thumb, it is good to tell your older child about the baby as soon as mom begins to show. In some cases, if there is morning sickness that might worry the child, for example, it might be wise to announce the news earlier. If your family is adopting or using a surrogate, it is also wise to start the conversation early. The more time your child has to adjust to the idea, the better. When you talk about the new little brother or sister, talk about the good things about having a new baby, but also let your child know that babies need a lot of help in the beginning. Talk about how much fun it will be to have a younger sibling, without overselling. Talk about what life will be like with a new baby, and help your child feel a sense of ownership when it comes to the new little one. Encourage your child to talk to your baby bump, feel when the baby kicks, and think about what it will mean to be an older sibling. It can be helpful to read age-appropriate books about babies and birth, or look into a sibling birth class at the hospital.

Making Plans for the Birth

If your older child will need to change rooms to make space for the new baby, make sure you make this transition well in advance of the birth. The same applies to any other major transitions, like potty training or moving from a crib to a bed. Make arrangements for your older child’s care while you are in the hospital, but try to arrange a visit with the new baby as quickly as possible, while you are still in the hospital. Let the child meet his or her new sibling with the baby in the bassinet, to avoid any feelings of jealousy because the baby is being held by mom or dad. Consider getting a small gift for your older child “from the baby” to make that first meeting as warm as possible. Manage your expectations about your child’s reaction; some children will be enthusiastic, and others will be unimpressed. Arrange for one parent to spend some special one on one time with your older child right after this first meeting.

The Homecoming

Once you bring the new baby home, you will need to give your older child some assistance in adjusting to the changes. As much as is possible, let the older sibling help care for the new little family member. “Helping” will mean different things, depending on the age of the older child, but you can find something for your child to do, whether it’s entertaining the baby during a diaper change, helping to push the stroller, or helping to dress or bathe the baby. If your child is not interested in helping, do not force it. Remember, bonding is a natural process and will happen gradually. Try to set aside time each day to spend with your older child, but keep the daily routine as normal as possible, including school or daycare if that’s the norm.

Helping to Manage Feelings

Sometimes, children don’t take to being an older sibling easily. Your older child may struggle with his or her new role in the family. Encourage conversation about the new baby, and be patient. If your child acts out or seems to regress, understand that this may be a way of seeking attention. Offer reassurance of your child’s special place in the family. Adjusting to the new normal may take some time, and if you are having trouble helping your child, consider asking your pediatrician for advice.

Start Your Family with Help from Center for Vasectomy Reversal

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Preparing Your Kids for Preschool

The weeks leading up to the first day of preschool are filled with emotions. You may be wondering if your child is ready. You may even be wondering if you’re ready. The best way to ensure that this transition goes smoothly is to be prepared. What steps must you take to prepare for this next step? Here are some tips that will make this adjustment go smoothly.

Visit the School
Most preschools are willing to take you on a tour of their facility before the first day. Call or email the school to set up an appointment and bring your little one on a little tour of the school. You will likely be able to meet the teacher and the principal. You’ll also typically be able to bring your child into a classroom and have a mini practice run during which you can sit at a desk and look around the room. This will give you both an idea of what life will be like for your little one at school.

Practicing Separating from Your Child
One of the most challenging steps in beginning preschool is separating from your child. This may be as challenging for you as it is for them. This can be even more challenging for families who don’t spend much time apart. As your child approaches preschool, it’s time to start. Step one is to try having a relative or sitter stay with them at home. Step two will be leaving them with a relative or sitter at a location that is not your home. This is a safe and easy way to practice separation and will likely make the big first day of preschool a little easier on you both.

Read to Your Child
While preschool is not highly focused on the “academic” side of learning, reading to your child is still very important. If you haven’t started already, get into a habit of reading to them daily. This will help grow your child’s attention span and promote emergent literacy at the same time.

Take a Toddler Class
From music to mini gym, there are numerous opportunities for you and your child to attend a toddler class together. You and your little one will enjoy learning together, and it will also give your child the opportunity to listen to a teacher and understand what it’s like to be part of a class.

Get Your Child Excited for School
You’re your child’s biggest fan, so cheer them on. Talk up the preschool experience so they are excited for the first day. Let them walk around the house with a backpack and a lunchbox. Play “school” so that they know how important and exciting this transition can be.

Conclusion
Remember that preschool’s primary function is not so much the “academic” side of learning. Rather, children will work on social-emotional adaptation, executive function, fine motor, and gross motor skills. It’s a beautiful first step into independence and autonomy. So good luck, parents! It’s going to be an incredible journey!

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
In the Gulf Coast area, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is your answer for vasectomy reversal. We know each situation is unique and want to hear your story. We will thoughtfully discuss options to carefully tailor our services to your needs. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

How to Navigate an Overstimulated Child

We’ve all been there. Out of nowhere, your child is overstimulated, and it seems like there’s no way out. Whether you’re in a public place, leaving a babysitter’s house, or just hanging out at home, once you’ve crossed into the territory of an overstimulated child, it feels like it will never end. There’s hope. Here are some effective strategies that will help you navigate having an overstimulated child.

What is Overstimulation?
When a child receives too much input, they can reach a state of overstimulation. The source of overstimulation can vary from child to child, but some sources may be:

• Too much screen time
• A change in their environment
• Large crowds
• Loud music
• Bright or flashing lights
• Dietary Stimulation
  -this can include caffeine, sugar, or food dye

What are some Symptoms of Overstimulation?
Just as the source of overstimulation can vary from child to child, the symptoms vary and are on a broad spectrum. While some children act out as a result of overstimulation, others retreat. Here are some common symptoms of overstimulation.

• Temper Tantrums and Meltdowns
  Some children react strongly to overstimulation, which can result in tantrums, mood swings, and meltdowns.
• Hyperactivity
  Hyperactivity is a frequent symptom of overstimulation. Children will adapt to their environment; as challenging as this can be, it is a natural response.
• Avoidance and Withdrawal
  Some children shut down when they’re overstimulated.
• Irritability
  Some children become easily angered or grumpy when they are overstimulated.
• Issues or Difficulty Concentrating
  It can be extremely difficult to concentrate when overstimulated. This is true for anyone, but children’s nervous systems are still developing, so they can become much more easily overstimulated.

What To Do?
Don’t panic. A few simple steps to navigating the overstimulated space include:

• Remove the Stimulation
  Whether you scoop up your child and take them out of the theatre or turn off the TV, reducing the level of stimulation they’re receiving is crucial.
• Move the Child to a Peaceful Quiet Environment
  Quiet is key. It’s unlikely a child will calm in a noisy environment.
• Comfort the Child
  Holding, rocking, or providing a stuffed animal are all great ways to bring comfort to the child.
• Food or Drink
  Sometimes, offering a healthy snack or a drink will do the trick.
• Offer a Quiet Activity
  Getting the brain to switch gears can be challenging, but offering the child a new activity can help.
• Deep Breathing
  We used to tell my child to sniff the flower and blow out the candle. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. This provides much-needed oxygen to the brain and can help to soothe the child.

Conclusion
Working through an episode of overstimulation can be challenging, but practicing these steps should help you and your child smoothly transition back to a normal, calm headspace.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
The Center for Vasectomy Reversal is located on the beautiful Gulf Coast. We are available to answer any questions you might have about vasectomy reversal, procedures, and the path to parenthood. We will discuss the best options with you to find what you need for a successful journey to becoming a parent. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

Should you manage your children’s screen time?

Parents watching kids while they’re on their tablet.

The Omnipresence of Screens

Everywhere we go, everything we do in our modern lives, screens are ubiquitous. Computers, televisions, tablets, and smartphones are everywhere, and most of us spend hours of our days staring at screens. We’ve long known this is not healthy for growing brains but, for most parents, the pandemic derailed our efforts to keep screentime under control. Having gotten into the habit of bigger kids doing school online and little kids being entertained with tablets, limiting screentime has become a vague and complicated effort. It is time, though to retake control and manage our children’s screen time.

What’s So Bad About Screen Time?

Really, what’s the big deal? After all, modern technology has many benefits, often delivered through screens! Screens provide educational opportunities to kids, help them learn about current events, expose them to new information, and allow them to connect with friends and family members. They can collaborate with other students on school assignments and projects, and find support when they need it by accessing online support networks. However, despite these benefits, screen time poses definite risks to children and adolescents. Too much screen time can hinder the development of a child’s brain, because children need human interaction and experiences in nature. Children who have too much screen time may not build the language, cognitive, and social skills they need to succeed in life. To develop these skills, they need to read, practice problem-solving in the natural environment, engage in artistic pursuits, and interact with their peers and adults. Spending too much time in front of screens negatively affects a child’s attention span and ability to regulate emotions. What’s more, children who are continually entertained by screens miss out on the benefits of boredom. Being bored provides kids with opportunities to be creative, develop self-sufficiency, and learn to solve their own problems. Screen time can limit children’s physical activity and disrupt their sleep, leading to compromised physical health. Worse, unrestricted access to screens opens opportunities for children to be exposed to content that is inappropriate for their age level and, in some cases, unsafe.

How Much is Too Much?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the following guidelines apply to daily screen time for children.

• No screen time for children under 6 months.
• No screen time for kids 18 to 24 months, unless they are video chatting or co-playing with parents.
• One hour or less of screentime for kids aged two to five, and that hour should be high-quality, educational content.
• Over six, personal time limits should be established to ensure that kids get the right amount of exercise, sleep, and time for other activities. In general, there should be no more than two hours of non-educational screen time in any given day.

How to Make it Happen

Let’s face it, limiting screen time is hard. If your children are used to having free rein in this area, you are going to get some resistance when you try to set limits. Here are some tips that might help you accomplish this herculean task.

• Put your own screens down. If you are consistently scrolling or binge-watching, it’s going to be hard to convince your kids not to follow suit. Make a point to engage in other activities, either as a family or on your own, including reading, hobbies, and being active. Establish “screen-free” times, when everyone in the family puts away their devices.
• Keep screens out of the hands of little ones. You can delay the screen addiction by keeping screens away from young children as long as possible. This can be tough, because there’s a temptation to use screens to entertain them in tricky situations, but it’s best to avoid the electronic babysitter.
• Be clear and firm with screen time rules. Even if you are getting pushback- (and you’re likely to get pushback)- remain consistent in asserting and enforcing screen time limits. Make sure everyone, including both parents, grandparents, babysitters, and anyone else who will be in charge at some point, is clear on the rules.
• Make screen alternatives fun! Play with your kids! Go to the park or just go outside and play with sidewalk chalk or bubbles. Play hide and seek, read books together, or draw silly pictures. Play board games, do arts and crafts, put together puzzles, or teach your kids a new skill, like photography or gardening. Build pillow forts, create indoor obstacle courses, or have a dance party. You can also tuck a few toys and games away to introduce as something new during screen-free time. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but just a few ideas to get you thinking about all the screen-free ways you can interact with your children, or get them doing something fun on their own.
• Remember, it’s all about balance. Screens themselves are not inherently good or bad. Use them wisely, to help kids learn new things, or to give them something to work towards, as they earn screen time by doing chores or accomplishing goals. Aim to create a healthy balance for all members of your family, so that everyone can be happier and healthier.

Support for Your Family as it Grows

Balance is an important part of growing as a family. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people grow their happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Tips for Step Parenting

Step dad hanging out with step son.

Blending a Family

After the loss of a spouse, through death or divorce, finding a new partner is exciting! Just as exciting, but more cause for anxiety, is the blending of two different lives. Being a parent is challenging; being a stepparent is even more difficult. Even if you weren’t warring with the established and widespread “evil stepparent” tropes, you would still be stepping into an intimate role with a young person who may not be inclined to accept you unconditionally. Fortunately, there are some guidelines you can follow as a stepparent to help create a positive and healthy relationship between you and your stepchildren.

Tips for Step Parenting

• Ease into a relationship. Even if you feel thrown into the role of parent, remember that you are not the primary parent, and shouldn’t pretend to be. Never forget that your partner and stepchild have a bond that was formed long before you came on the scene. This doesn’t mean you will never play an important role in the child’s life, as an important parental figure, but it does mean that you should refrain from coming on too strong, instead letting the child set the pace for getting to know each other. Most of the time, if you are patient, showing interest in them while giving them time to warm up to you, children will give you a chance.
• Don’t try to be the cool parent. It’s not a competition. You’re not competing with your partner and, more importantly, you’re not competing with the ex. Don’t let your insecurity or ego cause you to overstep and try to ingratiate yourself with the children, making them want or need you more than the original parent. Children see through this sort of thing, and it will cause conflicts between the adults.
• Don’t let existing familial bonds make you feel threatened. You and your partner are creating a new family, but the old family had a history before you came into the picture. Accept this, integrating the past into the present by asking occasional questions in an interested way. Move forward, while respecting what came before, without trying to upstage it. Additionally, encourage your stepchild to spend one-on-one time with each of their biological parents. This sends a message that you are not in competition, and you just want everyone to be truly happy.
• Prioritize the needs of the child. We all have big feelings sometimes, but as a parent, it’s important that you focus on the children’s feelings rather than your own. Aim for selflessness in your interactions, setting high standards for your own coping skills. This doesn’t mean that your emotional needs are not important, but it’s up to you to make sure they are met in appropriate ways. Take time for yourself, to socialize, exercise, and generally practice self-care, and when you are interacting with the child it will be easier to put your emotions on the back burner. Don’t take it personally if your stepchild doesn’t seem to be taking to you. Remember that the child needs to mourn the loss of the original family.
• Know how to respond to hostility. Will your stepchild yell at you that you are not his or her real parent? It is incredibly likely. Knowing this, take the time to prepare your response. Don’t try to argue, but acknowledge the truth of the statement. Tell the children that while you are not their biological parent, you are a stepparent who loves them. Responding to hostility with a calm, loving response is a great way to defuse it. If it doesn’t? Take a deep breath and move on.
• Get on the same page with the other parents. This means discussing parenting techniques, methods, and philosophies with your spouse, but it also means addressing these things with the other biological parent. When all the parents are in accord on how things should be done, it makes parenting easier for everyone.
• Talk it out. Regularly touch base with each other as a family, setting aside family time in which everyone can share how they’re feeling. Ask the kids to be honest, sharing positive and negative feedback, so that you can make your family stronger and better.
• Create routines to build strong family bonds. Spend one-on-one time with your stepchild, doing something together once or twice a week. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, it can be something as simple as cooking together, as long as you have time to share, listen, and bond. Establish routines as a family, too, like game night, special celebrations on birthdays and minor holidays, and regular family meals. Time together can help the family bond and become more united.
• Keep your expectations in check. You are unlikely to step into a child’s life and immediately have a strong bond, and you can’t force it by trying too hard. By the same token, you are not likely to be accepted as an authority figure if you over-discipline to try to establish your authority. Take it easy, avoid overstepping your bounds, and keep your expectations realistic. It’s ok, you will eventually develop a relationship, and you can have a happy, healthy, blended family.

Growing into a Family, Together

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people grow their happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Understanding Your Newborn’s Language

Father talking to his newborn baby.

Communicating with Your Newborn

Babies cry, everyone knows that. What you might not realize until you become a parent, though, is that different cries mean different things. Because it’s an ability they’re born with, babies use crying to communicate their needs, and part of your job is to try to figure out exactly what those needs may be. Don’t worry! In any new relationship, it takes a while to get to know the person and understand his or her style of communication. It’s no different with your new little one, and you will get the hang of it before you know it.

What Does Baby Need?

Babies cry because they are hungry, need a diaper change, are uncomfortable, or are in pain. They also cry when they’re overwhelmed by all the stimuli in this brand-new world, so be a little bit patient when you are trying to figure out the issue. Paying attention to other signals, like facial expressions and body movements, can help you get to know your baby better and understand what he or she is trying to say. Some people also find it helpful to begin teaching baby sign language around six months old, just to provide another communication tool.

Connecting with Your Baby

As you try to determine what your little one is communicating, use it as an opportunity to bond. Don’t just communicate when little one is fussy, either. Watch how your baby responds to your voice, your touch, and your body language. Talk to your baby as much as you can, while you are playing, during diaper changes and feedings, and when you are just relaxing and getting to know each other. Talking to babies is important, because it makes them feel safe and helps them develop language skills. Always respond to your baby’s cries, to offer reassurance as well as comfort. Knowing that you will meet their needs helps babies grow into secure people.

When Will Your Baby Talk?

Of course, communication becomes easier when children learn to talk. This will happen in stages, as baby begins to babble and coo, then make sounds that sound like words, before they actually begin to engage in coherent speech. They understand earlier than they can talk, though, and most babies know what the word “no” means by about six months of age. You can reasonably expect your child to say his or her first work around the first birthday.

Should I Be Worried?

Like every other element of a baby’s development, speech evolves differently for different babies. If your little one isn’t hitting every milestone “by the book,” don’t be alarmed. However, talk to your doctor if your baby won’t stop crying, or the crying seems strange, or it is accompanied by other signs that something could be wrong. If your baby doesn’t react to loud sounds by five months of age or isn’t making different sounds by that time, talk to your pediatrician. It may not be anything to worry about, but it’s always good to make sure everything is proceeding normally as you learn to communicate with your baby.

Happy Families Start at Center for Vasectomy Reversal

Communication is the key to any successful relationship, and learning to communicate with your children is a big part of building a happy family! At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people grow their happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.