Mommy FTW

I am a full time stay at home mom with a 9 month old girl, and a 3 year old boy.  My son was always an epic napper.  I was spoiled, and nap time was my favorite time of day – I could get things done around the house, and even have the chance to relax for a few minutes of my ‘work day.’  I was worried about juggling it all when my daughter was born, but I knew I would have my son’s nap time as the glue that would hold my day together.

When my son started to drop his nap time (first he would skip one day a week.. then it was three…) it really started to stress me out.  We would have fights about it every day.  I would give him toys I got at yard sales when he napped, and take toys or privileges away when he didn’t.  We were all pretty miserable!  I decided to bring up the topic at my son’s 3 year check up with his pediatrician.

During our discussion of Cameron’s sleep I mentioned that sometimes Cam wakes up with what I called ‘night terrors’ – he is sort of awake, but a bit delirious, and usually inconsolable and screaming.  The pediatrician asked me when Cam went to bed, to which I answered, on days he naps around 10pm, and on days he doesn’t around 7:30.  She noted that those 10 days must be “long days” – you got that right!  And then she made what was to me, an earth shattering suggestion: drop nap time.  She said that night terrors are often linked to over tired children, and with Cam going to bed so late, he wasn’t getting the solid chunk of night sleep he needed.  She said, still give him “rest time” (quiet time in his room for an hour or so) – if he falls asleep, fine, but take the pressure off and don’t stress over it.

Here’s how I made it happen – For Cameron, rest time is from 2 – 3:15.  2 is also when his sister goes down for his nap – so for my sanity I like to have them be in their rooms at the same time.  The reason I picked 3:15 as the end time is because it is very easy for Cameron to see on his clock – both hands point to the same spot.  We have a great clock from IKEA that is perfect for this.  Cameron’s door knob used to have a ’safety cover’ which we got from Amazon that keeps him from being able to let himself out – we don’t need this any more as he is with the program and knows that he has to stay in his room for the designated time period – but you might want to try something like that initially.  Finally, we have a video monitor in Cam’s room (honestly we bought it for Violet but we get a lot more use out of it with Cameron!)  I use it to make sure he isn’t getting into too much trouble up there.  It has a PA system so I can talk to him if I need to.

Cameron is allowed to play with toys (nothing electronic) and read books.  For now, the system is working great – Cam generally doesn’t give too much of a fight about staying up there the whole time.  In the evening, my husband has an alarm on his iPhone that signals that it’s time to get in the bath and then go to bed.  Cameron is usually quite happy to start his relaxing routine!  I think if you are getting to the point of stressing over and fighting with your child about nap time, it might be time to try switching to a ‘rest time’ or quiet time in the room.  It revolutionized the evening routine at my house and I couldn’t be happier!

Over the holiday break Violet came down with her first ear infection.  It’s been a long time since anyone in the family has had one of these (thankfully) and I had to rely on my seemingly ancient experience to figure out what was going on!  I remember with Cameron’s first ear infection I asked his pediatrician how I could tell (or at least get a good idea) that his cold had taken a turn for the worse and become an infection.  Below is her advice, along with a few new tidbits that I pick up from Violet’s pediatrician.

My poor sick baby snuggles up to dad.

A cold virus usually runs its course over 7-10 days.  Try to note when your little one gets ill (I happened to call Violet’s pediatrician when she first got ill so I could see in my phone history when I made the call).  If your child has been sick longer than that, and maybe even seemed to be getting better but then takes a turn for the worse, you might be looking at an ear infection.

If your child has a fever, and they have had that long lingering cold then it’s not looking so good!  I know with Cameron I was nervous about taking his temperature rectally… it just seemed like it would be uncomfortable for him.  But I’ve gotten over my squeamishness with Violet and honestly, it doesn’t seem to bother her at all.  This will give you the most accurate temperature reading.

At this point I’d call your pediatrician and tell them what signs you’ve seen – they will ask you about the fever, so be sure you get that reading!  It’s pretty likely they will have you come in for a sick visit.

Your little one might be in a lot of pain from the possible infection, and is certainly uncomfortable from the fever.  I tend to give my little ones Advil (ibuprofen) rather than Tylenol (acetaminophen) because it lasts longer (6-8 hours vs 4 hours).  This is especially key in the night because it will hopefully help everyone get more rest.

Feeling much better and eating again!

Violet had a pretty rough time with this infection – her fever was up to 104 for a few evenings.  It took about 4 days on the antibiotics to get her back to herself – eating, drinking, and smiling again.  There was a time that we had to force feed her pedialyte because she wasn’t having any wet diapers.  The pediatrician suggested buying pedialyte frozen pops (in the baby isle) and cutting them into small chunks so Violet could feed herself the pieces, or just try sucking on the pop.  This didn’t really work for her – but maybe it will for you.  In theory it would be a lot more pleasant than squirting pedialyte into her mouth every 10 minutes!

Finally she recovered – we’ve got 2 days left on her 10 day antibiotic course (always be sure to complete the antibiotic course even if your child seems all better) and then we will head back to the pediatrician for an all-clear on her ears.

If your little one comes down with an ear infection – just get them to the doctor quickly, and give them as much TLC as you can while they are recovering.  It seems like a long road, but they will get there!  Good luck!

Since Cameron started preschool he has been really into art.  For his 3rd Birthday a few weeks ago he got a lot of gifts to encourage his new creative streak.  Here are some of my favorites (and his too!)

Check out the MALA Easel from IKEA.  It’s only $14.99 – a great bargain!  On one side is a chalkboard, the other is a whiteboard.  There is a tray for supplies, and a spot for a roll of paper which fits nicely over the blackboard side.  Also check out the other MALA items (markers, chalk, rolls of paper) which are all VERY affordable.

Cameron has the Melissa and Doug spill proof paint cups.  Yesterday all four of these actually fell on the ground completely upside down and not a drop of paint spilled out.  I kid you not!  It was amazing.

Cameron also has Crayola Washable Paints which are indeed, very washable, and things you can add to the paint (“Mixing Medium“) which make the paints glittery, pearly, or give them texture.  I got that idea from his preschool and it makes the paint extra special.   Be sure to get lots of paint brushes, and a mister clean magic eraser which is great at removing marker or crayon that might happen to get somewhere it’s not supposed to.

I have a new found love for the library now that I have kids.  We go all the time to pick up books I’ve requested (see my post on putting books on hold) as well as to browse the shelves for something new and excited.  So I was happy to hear about the Check it In Fine Forgiveness Campaign that the DC Public Libraries have in effect.  Here are the details:

Don't worry, the library still loves you. Bring it back!

The “Check It In” campaign is an effort to encourage DC Public Library cardholders who haven’t used the library in a while because of overdue, lost or damaged books or other library materials to return to the library.  The DC Public Library will forgive all fines and fees on any overdue, lost and damaged item.

The DC Public Library wants to get back as many overdue books as possible to benefit more District residents. The Library wants to also ensure we have your most up-to-date information so this is an opportunity for you to update your customer record with your new email address, phone number or mailing address.

How long is the campaign?
The 60-day campaign will run from Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 – Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012.

How does it work?
No matter how long you’ve had the book. No matter the condition of the CD. You can return them to any DC Public Library. No questions asked. And best of all NO FINES OR FEES charged. You lost it? No problem. Stop by your local library and we’ll forgive that too.  When returning your book, you must see a library staff person in order to clear your record of fines and fees.

What are you waiting for? Check it in and discover the joy of using your library again.

I remember as a child I lost a book and was so scared of paying the fines (my allowance was non-existent) that I never went to the library again.  It wasn’t until I came back to DC as and adult (with a new last name from my marriage – ha!) that I started using the library again.  Don’t let this happen to you!  The DC Public Libraries want to give you a clean slate.  Start your love affair with the library again!

For more information on where to find your local DC Public Library branch, check out their website.  Also be sure to read my post on placing books on hold (my favorite way to get the most out of the library) and check out what Cameron is reading if you need some inspiration!

Almost exactly two years ago, my older child Cameron came down with Roseola.  I’m not sure why, but this common illness which is caused by a virus usually appears in children age 6 months to 2 years in the spring and fall.  And given the number of google searches Mommy FTW is getting about roseola, I’d say there’s plenty of it going around!  So, I wanted to do a repost of some of the information I shared 2 years ago when Cameron got sick.

Roseola is sometimes called “baby measles” or the “sixth disease.” It is a form of herpes. Roseola is highly contagious, being spread through contact with saliva or being breathed on by another baby with roseola. If a child in your playgroup or in your little one’s daycare has roseola – you definitely want to be on the look out.  It usually starts with a sudden high fever with sometimes no other symptoms. During this phase of the illness just give your child ibuprofen to try and keep him comfortable. FYI – ibuprofen is a better choice than acetaminophen (tylenol) because it lasts longer, which means you have to administer it less often.  The fever will generally last about 3 days.  FYI – About 10 to 15 percent of children with roseola have a seizure. If this happens, your baby may become unconscious and jerk his arms, legs, or facial muscles for two or three minutes.

About a day after the fever subsides, you will see the telltale rash of roseola (see pictures below).  This might be the only clue that tells you what happened to your little one!  I didn’t figure out what was wrong with until I saw the rash and talked to some other moms in our playgroup.  The pieces of the puzzle came together and I knew what we were dealing with.   The rash isn’t itchy or uncomfortable, and contact with the rash itself doesn’t spread the illness. It’s usually seen on the trunk and neck, but it can extend to the arms, legs, and face. It lasts for about 24-48 hours.  Once you see the rash, the worst is over with.

There’s no specific treatment for roseola. Like most viral illnesses, roseola just needs to run its course. The most important thing you can do is make sure your baby rests and gets plenty of liquids.  Watch the fever and make sure it doesn’t get dangerously high, and be sure to let other moms or caregivers your child has contact with know so they can keep an eye on their little ones.

Here are some pictures of the rash Cameron had on his left and right legs. It looks a little scary but it didn’t last long!

Cameron's Right Leg - Roseola rash

Cameron's Left leg - Roseola rash

I did a post on the topic of trick or treating with your toddler last year, and it was pretty popular, so I am doing a repost since it’s that time of year again!  I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and fun Halloween!

Our pumpkins this year. Cameron's is the cat!

Choose a costume that is comfortable and don’t cover your child’s eyes. If your child is working on potty training, think about how easy it will be to remove for a bathroom break. If your child’s costume has a hat, try putting it on them a few times before the big day so they can warm up to it. Also, put it on your head to show them how cool it is.

Try and go visiting before your toddler’s bedtime. No one says you have to wait until dark to visit your neighbors in your Halloween costume. This will help avoid crankyness! I think we will head out after dinner, but before bath time.

If you are going to go around the neighborhood, bring a stroller or wagon. That way if they get tired of walking you have a back up plan that doesn’t involve you carrying them.

Take a flashlight with you if you are going out after dark. Also, Give your toddler something that is lit to hold. A flashlight, glow bracelet or necklace work great. You want others to see them coming

Make sure your toddler is wearing comfortable shoes – even if they don’t go with the costume!

If your child is potty trained, suggest they go to the bathroom before you go. If not, put on a fresh diaper.  (Even thought Cameron is mostly trained, I might try and get a diaper on him anyways to avoid any tricky situations).

Consider using a backpack as a goody bag. It’s easier to carry if things get heavy, and it keeps those little hands free to carry a flashlight.

Be sure to bring a bottle of water or your toddler’s sippy cup so that they can have a drink.

Take pictures before you go out trick or treating while everyone is well-rested, well fed, and happy.

I hope everyone has fun! Please feel free to post pictures of your little one in costume on our Facebook Fan Page!!  Cameron is going as Thomas the train – is anyone surprised?!

PS: if any readers live nn NW DC I hear that Brandywine St is closed to traffic between 46th and 47th streets from 5-8:30.  There will be a fire truck there around 6:30. That’s where we will be!

I’m pretty sure that Cameron breaks his crayons on purpose – hopefully your little one isn’t being so devilish!  But even so you most likely have a collection of broken crayons around because they so easily snap in little hands.  Recently on Baby Center I came across a great blog post with some creative ideas on what to do with them.  I wanted to share those, and then add some more that I found.  You can bet I will be trying some of these ideas!

Crayon Shavings + Wax Paper + Iron = Endless Possibilities!

I saw so many different iterations on this basic idea – pretty much your own imagine is the only limit!  But, here’s one specific idea that is a perfect fall craft for this time of year – Wax paper and Crayon fall leaves!  Check out this blog post for the super easy instructions.

Create some fall color!

I also saw people using the same idea to make Valentine’s day hearts, shamrocks for St. Patrick’s day, butterflies, pumpkins – you can do pretty much anything you want!

Be mine!

Chunky Crayons – perfect for little hands!

You can take your old broken crayons and melt them down to make some easy to hold chunky crayons.  I’d totally trying this one for Violet!  You can use pretty much any shape pan to create them – here’s a blog post that uses mini and regular sized muffin pans.

What a great idea! Especially for little hands.

You can mix any colors you want together – even add in glitter before you melt the crayons for a little extra sparkle.

Crayon Chip Wrapping Paper!

Want to make your gift look super special?  I love this idea – it’s such a great way to decorate a package.  Pick colors to go with whatever the occasion is!  Check out this blog post for the easy instructions.

Make your gift stand out with paper too pretty to rip up!

You can bet for Christmas this year my broken red and green crayons will be meeting a noble end!

Crayon Candles!

There are so many posts about doing this all over the web.  You can go wacky and mix lots of colors together, or you can seperate you colors into color families for a more solid colored candles.  Here’s one post about how to make candles from your broken crayons.

Possibly the most popular idea I found out there - candle crayons!

If you happen to have lots of empty baby food jars around (like me!) you can always make your candles in those!  More recycling!  Another simple idea for your baby food jars – fill them with water and some crayon shavings – it’s a cute mini snow globe!

Beautiful Melted Crayon Art!

This one isn’t really for broken crayons – you’d want to start with some perfect fresh ones I think.  But, it was just so beautiful and cheery I had to post it.  Check out this link on how to make this amazing melted crayon art.

This brought a smile to my face!

By the way, if you’re not feeling crafty enough to make this, then check out this Etsy seller that will make one for you!

If anyone else has more ideas, please share them.  I hope this gives you some inspiration on what to do with all those broken crayons!

The Hurricane is coming!  It’s time to batten down the hatches, and figure out what the heck to do with your kids!  Here’s a round up of my favorite rainy day activities in Washington DC if you need to get the little ones out of the house, most of them FREE!

Some ideas to beat the rainy day blues. Of course, there's always puddle stompin'!

Wilson Aquatic Center – The Aquatic Center is currently closed for it’s yearly “deep clean” but will re open Sunday, August 28th all refreshed.  Given that Sunday is supposed to be one of the more rainy days, this seems like great timing to me!  Check out my earlier post on the Wilson Aquatic Center to learn more about this fabulous, free spot.  It’s the perfect place to take your kiddos and really tire them out!

Rock Creek Park Nature Center – While not the most glamorous spot, it’s a great little gem for a rainy day.  There’s lots of things for your little explorer to look at and touch, and plenty of free parking.  Check out my earlier post on the Rock Creek Park Nature Center for more information.

The National Museum of Natural History – This museum has Dinosaurs, bugs, a huge Elephant, gems, and so much more.  Both my son and daughter loved being able to hold the bugs, and were amazed by the butterfly exhibit.  Check out the National Museum of Natural History website for more information on the current exhibits and hours.

National Museum of American History – If your little one loves trains, trucks, machines, and hands on activities don’t miss the Spark Lab!), then you definitely want to check out this Museum.  Check out the website for more information on exhibits and hours of operation.

National Air and Space Museum – There is something amazing about giant planes hanging indoors just a few feet away from you – even to an adult!  Air and Space is a guaranteed winner for kids.  Be sure to check out the How Flight Works exhibit which has lots of fun hands on activities.  Check the Air and Space website for more info.

Wisconsin Place Rec Center – This isn’t the most exciting outing, but if you are desperate to get your little on out of the house, this is a decent option.  Check out my previous post on the Rec Center to learn more.

Metro Train Ride – If your toddler loves trains as much as mine does, they might enjoy just a train ride on the Metro.  I know I’ve done this before!  Cameron really loves the “underground train.”  Seems silly…. but you never know what is exciting to a little one.  Kids under 4 ride free.

National Zoo – Yes, much of the Zoo is outside, but there are lots of indoor exhibits too.  Cameron’s favorites are the Bird House and Amazonia.  Check the Zoo website for more info on exhibits and hours.

Palisades Library – Did you know the Palisades library has a train table, and a whole floor devoted to the kids section?  It’s the best kids library I’ve ever encountered.  The library isn’t open Sunday, but it’s a good option for this Saturday (or any other rainy day!)  Check out the Palisades Library page on the DC Public Library website for more info.

Those of you who read Mommy For The Win regularly know that Cameron loves to read, and I try to encourage this by always getting him new books.  I’ve become a huge fan of the D.C. Public Library because really, who has the money to buy all these books!

When I first started going to the Library I would aimlessly search the shelves and pull out what seemed like it would interest Cameron.  Occasionally I would find something good, but it was hard to really get in there to look for specific things while wrangling a toddler and a newborn.  So, with the encouragement of the DCPL on twitter (@dcpl) I checked out the D.C. Public Library website, and learned how to place books on hold for pick up at whatever library I wanted.  It’s really easy – Here’s a step by step guide:

1)Figure out what book you want to check out – this can be the hardest part.  If you are short on inspiration, use Amazon.com to help you.  Today I started by typing in “Truck Book” to the search box.  One of the suggestions that came up was “Little Blue Truck” by Alice Schertle.  The reviews seemed good, so I thought I’d see if the Library had it.  (Honestly, I would say 8 out of 10 times they do have the book I am looking for!)  FYI, another great resource is the “Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought” suggestions box.  It’s full of other great ideas for similar books.  If your toddler has a favorite book, search for it and see what Amazon suggests in this area.  It’s really helpful!

Use this suggestions box to come up with ideas

2)Go to the D.C. Public Library website and search their online catalog.  The website is catalog.dclibrary.org – just type the title of the book (or if you have an author you like, you can try that as well) to find your book.

Search the online catalog

3)Place the book on hold.  Click on the book – when looking at the book information page you will see there is an option to “Place Hold” – this means that they will fetch the book for you (from any DC Library branch) and bring it to whichever Library branch you ask.  Yes.  THEY DELIVER IT!! If the book is checked out, they will get it for you once it is returned.  Usually it takes a few days if the book is not checked out.  They will email you when the book has arrived at your requested library.

Place your book on Hold - you can choose your pick up branch

4)Pick up your book.  Once you get your email, go and pick up your book – it will be there waiting for you under your name.  It’s so easy.  You will never aimlessly browse the Library again!

You can manage your holds and see what the status is as well.  If you decide you don’t want a book after all, you can cancel the hold.

Manage your Holds using the "My Requested Holds" button

Of course to do all this you need a library account.  If you don’t have one of those, sign up.  It’s quick, easy, and FREE!

Not in D.C.?  Don’t worry – I know other Libraries have a similar system.  Stop in to your local branch and ask them how to place a hold for a book and if they have an online catalog.  You will be so happy you did!

My husband and I are big fans of Chipotle, so I was super excited when I learned they had a kid’s menu…. and that Cameron loved eating their food!

Cameron is ready to dig in!

The kids meal comes on a super cute tray – you can get tacos or a quesadilla, it comes with beans, rice, a little bag of chips, and a drink (apple juice or milk).  Cameron likes the quesadilla – I get it with Carnitas (the shredded pork) because the chicken is a bit spicy for his taste.  It is extremely affordable (around 3$) and a heck of a lot more healthy than most fast food kid’s options.  So next time you go to Chipotle give the kid’s meal a try for the little one….  It’s a great option!