Little Ones that get Left Behind

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Tips for easing the transition when older sibling go back to school.

Play school. Set up your own classroom and play school teaching simple lessons. 

Explain the changes. Prepare your little ones with a “story” about how school days will be a little different — but still fun and happy — once the older ones head off.

Create a “secret” leave-behind. Make a special card together with them to remind your older child how much their younger brother or sister loves them, and tuck it into your older child’s lunch bag or backpack. It will actually be a special treat for your toddler as well!

Do something special on the first day. After your older child heads to school, try to do something special with the younger one. Try a café for lunch ,visit a museum or organize a playdate. Whatever you do, make it special and enjoy each other’s company.

Practice the art of distraction. If all else fails, try your best to divert their attention away from missing his or her older siblings. Bake cookies together, put together a puzzle, go for a walk. Or just snuggle and take a nap together.

It’s hard for young children to know what to expect when one sibling goes to school. It certainly is an adjustment, no doubt. But, like anything else the changes will morph into a decidedly  familiar and comfortable new routine. Then before you know it, it’ll be time for summer vacation once again!

Some tips courtesy of Parenting Magazine on-line.

5 ways alleviate back to school anxiety

Back to school can be difficult for kids and parents. Here are five way to help alleviate back to school anxiety. 

1) Go shopping together - Even if you already have the items on hand, make a special trip to the store to pick up one or two things -- and make it a fun excursion for both of you.

2) Get the sleep schedule on track - Gradually get them back on schedule, moving up their bedtime by 15-30 minutes every few days. This way, when their first day of school rolls around, their internal body clocks will already be adjusted.

3) Create a special goodbye ritual - Whether it's a silly handshake or a simple call-and-response phrase like, "See ya later alligator/After a while crocodile," find something unique to do as you say your goodbyes.

4) Keep it short but sweet - Give them one last hug, take a deep breath, trust the teachers and walk away.

5) Celebrate at pick-up - At the end of the school day, make sure you are not late, tell them how proud you are and ask what's on the tap for tomorrow so you can keep the enthusiasm going.

Tips courtesy of Parenting Magazine on-line

Calico Critters Fun Day!

Calico Critters Party Aug 18, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM.  Come meet Mrs. Fisher Cat, WIN 15-25% Off Calico Critter purchases, Enjoy our Tea Party, Face Paintng & More!

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