Parenting

When your Family Gets Displaced

I know for me, whenever I am away from home for a period of time with or without the littles, I can get over the fact that I am on “vacation” and I resort back to the fact that I really want my own bed and own daily routine. Don’t get me wrong, I love to vacation and feel there is a place for it in any family. I am always grateful for the time away from the everyday norm. But, when you are displaced from your home based on circumstances that are not of your control, that gratefulness can go out the window. You can feel stressed and wonder when “normalcy” will creep back in.

By Mary Bockert, ago

Healthy Toddler Snacks

The thing about it is, I don’t have time to make gourmet meals daily and when I do, she doesn’t eat them anyways. So…what is a momma to do? I am a fan of meal prepping for myself, making meals ahead of time so that I can grab and go on those crazy days, saving me time and money. So I put that same concept into action for my toddler.

By Mary Bockert, ago

Daddy’s Little Girls

My favorite part of being a mommy is watching my husband be a daddy. Before having kiddos, we were pretty clear on how we wanted to raise our children, God willing. A strong faith background drove our thoughts on how we would approach parenting in general.

By Mary Bockert, ago

Teachable Moments

Having a 7.5 year old, a 5 year old and a 22 month old, I feel like we are at many stages of life all at once. We have one daughter in the beggining stages of second grade, one in preschool and one learning how to navigate life in a world full of words, pictures and movement. It’s a beautiful stage, a tiring stage and an unpredictable stage.

By Mary Bockert, ago

When Sickness Strikes the Household

It isn’t even that time of year, yet our household is battling strep throat like it may go out of business. First my middle child came down with it, now my oldest and I know it is just a matter of time before the baby is stricken with the fever and chills. Sickness with littles spreads like wildfire and it can be FRUSTRATING as a parent.

By Mary Bockert, ago

Bedtime Routine Tips for 2 Year Olds

I happen to have an almost 2 year old and when I hear that some mommas are having a difficult time nailing down a solid bedtime routine, well, I must speak up! Bedtime routines are really quite simple and when done correctly, can make bedtime actually pleasant for you and your little one.

By Mary Bockert, ago

Can You Teach Your Children Compassion?

GAH…My heart right here!
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This little one has a heart unlike anything I have ever seen in such a small little one. Tears well up in my eyes when I think about her heart for others and bringing joy to those around her…it FAR outweighs bringing joy to herself…ever. She thrives on giving and seeing others be blessed.

By Mary Bockert, ago

5 Fun “No Plan” Activities to do with your Toddler

I remember when I had my first child, I was always trying to fill the day with things to do. Down time was boring time for me so any time I had down time, I would look through the Toledo Parent, check out what the local libraries and parks were doing and reach out to friends for play dates. I enjoyed it but I’m not so sure my daughter appreciated all the running around all the time.

By Mary Bockert, ago