CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS:What children need by way of a nutritious snack differs from what is recommended for adults. Foods children graze on will often set the stage for what they'll choose as snacks later in life. Small portions of pizza, tiny sandwiches, crackers, dry breakfast cereal all make good snacks. Also, bite-size pieces of meat, poultry and fruit are good finger foods for this age group. Talk to your child every day and take time to really listen and observe. Learn as many details as you can about your child's activities and feelings.MY WORD: Children are the glue that holds all of us together.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS:Place your child's playpen in the family room (or any area close to the kitchen) is indispensable when having to put the baby down for a few minutes. It also keeps the pets away from the baby. Play develops interest and talent in solving problems just because they exist. During play, children setup and solve problems independent of adult praise and approval, they find pleasure in completing the task by themselves.Every child wants to know more. A growing, active mind is in constant search of new adventure, more knowledge.MY WORD:You add something to your child's knowledge just by being there.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: The pre-school years are an important time to help your child establish good eating habits, since you can control your child's diet successfully. At this age, many children need to eat snacks or "mini-meals". They cannot always eat enough food at mealtimes to get all the nutrients and energy they need. Help your child choose sensible snacks- foods that don't promote tooth decay. Books make waiting easier for everyone. Don't leave home without one, they certainly make life more enjoyable. MY WORD: Libraries are a wonderful source of materials for children. It's good for them to know they can go there and help themselves to adventures for no cost.

CAREABOUTKIDS

PARENTS: Children learn from watching other siblings or TV shows. However, parents should not expect educational TV programs to do all the work. Research shows that a child gains the most from television when a parent is involved and shares the experience. For example, the parent helps by explaining what the child doesn't understand and by talking about issues raised in the program. MY WORD: Almost all learning in the early years of a child's life involves the parent.