This past week I read up on some books I had been meaning to read-one being Toddlerwise. I know Babywise has a lot of controversy, but some of it really worked for us. I am not saying we followed it directly and I'm not saying any book is going to give me answers, but between Mack throwing objects in the air and Avery trying to grow as a two year old we needed something.
This book gave me great ideas! We have started a new schedule with Avery and Mack so that I can give Lincoln the time he needs as well. I also think this will make life easier when I leave them to go to work. Before, Avery would get up about 7:30 and come downstairs to watch some T.V. and Mack would sleep in until 9:30 or so...
But now:
6:30-7:00 Lincoln eats and has one on one time with me.
8:00 is time to get up and put our P.J's in the hamper to start our day! Then it's downstairs for breakfast at the table (this used to happen closer to 10:00.) I am able to get Lincoln back down for a morning nap by this time.
8:30 is free play time in the living room while I clean up breakfast and then it's on the ground with them!
9:00 is craft time at the table. They both sit in their high chairs (or at the island) to participate in some kind of activity. This might be cooking, drawing, or anything I have on the shelves.
9:30-10:30 is outside time or movement upstairs. I feed Lincoln around this time.
10:30-11:00 is independent time in their rooms while sitting on a blanket. Avery loves this time and Mack is beginning to enjoy it (in small amounts). This is a time I can get some stuff done upstairs while they play. Lincoln also goes back to sleep.
11:00 is more free play
11:30 is time to watch a little T.V. while I prepare lunch
12:00 is time to eat!
12:30 we spread a blanket out and they read books until it's time for naps. I then have time to feed Lincoln again.
1:00-4:00 Everybody naps (on a good day)
4:00 they both have a drink and play upstairs or if it's nice we are back outside. I feed Lincoln again!
5:00 craft time!
5:30 continue crafts or watch a little T.V while dinner is made. Here is when we hope Lincoln sleeps.
Then baths and bedtime by 8:00. (plus three more feedings with Lincoln until the morning)
This has only been implemented a few times-mostly when I am by myself with all three. Granted there are days we have people over, Little Gyms, Library or go to a friends house so this schedule doesn't exist. Weekends are also a different story-they get to stay in their P.J's which Avery LOVES!
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| Making Smoothies |
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| Rice Crispy Treats |
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| Free Drawing |
So who needs a schedule?!?
As you have read, schedules are my life! I totally get it and understand. Have you ever heard of Mom's Notes? They are by Carla Link and her husband and they basically take the Wise-series and break it down in to the how-tos. They have this great lecture on "Structuring your Child's Day" and another good one I thought was "Toddler Training." Like you, I don't do or agree with everything, but there is still some useful information.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the advice! It seems to be all trial and error and what works best for our family. I am just waiting for the day I can get some sleep-I really think that will help.
DeleteGood job Beth! You sound like you are doing so well - and I completely agree that when you have a "schedule" to follow, things just feel better. It's never too early to add a little "chore" into your day too :) This could seriously consist of just giving the kids a spray bottle and rag - my kids get a kick out of wiping the window down or even wiping off doorknobs. It's pretty fun and funny :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Lindsey! That is a good idea-they love the wipes and will clean off highchairs. Hope you are well!
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