More Than a Mommy

Terrible Twos…or Should I Say Ones!

Our third daughter’s personality is larger than life and lights up a room. She knows what she wants and lets you know what that is. She can be loud and, at times, demanding. In fact, we are going through a stage right now where everything she wants better be delivered or there is a tantrum lurking around the corner. If she would have been my first, this whole parenting gig would have been a bit intimidating. And that, my friends, is why I write this blog. This is for the first-time parents who have that strong-willed child and have NO CLUE what to do.

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

End of Summer Activities to do With Your Child

As the summer months start to wind down and summer is coming to a close, the bucket list of ideas is starting to dwindle and the pressure of the start of school is setting in. I get it. I try to squeeze anything out of every second of the day…knowing it will soon come to an end. As the time draws near for school shopping and getting back into a routine, here are a few more ideas to entertain the kids these last few weeks.

By Mary Bockert, ago

577 Foundation in Perrysburg, Ohio

I’m always looking for a place to take my kids where there are endless exploring opportunities, a place to use your imagination and a place where the environment changes each time you go. 577 Foundation in Perrysburg, Ohio is just that. Anywhere from the used book sale to the fossil pile, there is endless fun Monday through Sunday 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

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

Behavior Management System That Truly Works

Our family is blessed with three young girls who are a pleasure to be around and raise. My husband and I are truly blessed. As a family, we have fun together, we laugh together, and we enjoy spending time together. That being said, we also have three girls who can get on each others nerves. When summer hit for our oldest, it was evident that we needed a system set into place to make the transition into a new “norm” a bit easier and consistent when it came to everyone getting along. Being a former teacher, I am well aware that routines and consistency are key to success. Sure I could “wing it,” but why not set the girls up for success this summer.

By Mary Bockert, ago