Have you ever yelled at your kids and then felt guilty about it later? We’ve all done it. Our kid repeatedly does the same thing we asked them not to do over and over, so we snap. We see our kids’ eyes bulge and swell with tears. We see the fear. They cower and run away. Even though we might feel guilty, they’ve stopped doing what we ask them to do. So maybe yelling does work, we think. But, then our toddlers are back to throwing their toys the next day. And because we don’t know what else to do, we yell. But, in this blog, you are going to learn how printable checklists can actually help you reduce yelling. When you have the right strategies and tools at your hand, you won’t need to resort to yelling and the next time your kids irk you to no end. You can say goodbye to screaming at your kids because you’ll know exactly what to do. ​ 
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 3x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge, children's book, Henry's Hiccups, and parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram at @laurenbarrettwrites, and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum.
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Are you a new mom runner who wants to give running a stab? You have the cutest Hoka shoes. You purchased a matching running top and bottom? You bought a brand new running watch. You are all ready to go. There’s just one problem…
What do you do with your kid?
How do you get a nice, solid run in while having a kid in tow who doesn’t scream and dispute your steady flow?
As a mom who has been running with her son for over three years, I have quite a bit of experience with how to run with a kid. I’ve developed some foolproof ways to get kids to enjoy going on a run with you.
After doing your best to prepare your kid for the run ahead, I have 5 ways newbie mom runners can take their kids along for a run.
But first…
The Best Jogging Strollers…
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# 1 Scavenger Hunt
To get my son excited about the run ahead, I implement a scavenger hunt. I’ll say something like this ahead of time…
“Ohh, I’m excited. We are going on a run. You’re going to be in a stroller. What are we going to find on our run? Can you think of some things?”
Then, we will rattle off all the things we might see…
I’m all about simplicity, so this is all I do, but if you want to get fancy, you can print off or doodle a list with pictures of all the things your kids can find. Then, they can check them off as they find them on the run.
While I’m running, I’ll check in from time to time to see what my son has found. I make sure I exhibit exuberance and toll out praise [link] for each item he finds to keep him interested and engaged.
“Ohhh! You found a mailbox. That’s so cool! Way to go.”
Kids love to feel important and that they have a job. Doing a scavenger hunt makes them feel like a vital member of your run.
“Ohh, I’m excited. We are going on a run. You’re going to be in a stroller. What are we going to find on our run? Can you think of some things?”
Then, we will rattle off all the things we might see…
- Mailboxes
- Dogs
- Birds
- Flowers
- Airplanes
I’m all about simplicity, so this is all I do, but if you want to get fancy, you can print off or doodle a list with pictures of all the things your kids can find. Then, they can check them off as they find them on the run.
While I’m running, I’ll check in from time to time to see what my son has found. I make sure I exhibit exuberance and toll out praise [link] for each item he finds to keep him interested and engaged.
“Ohhh! You found a mailbox. That’s so cool! Way to go.”
Kids love to feel important and that they have a job. Doing a scavenger hunt makes them feel like a vital member of your run.
# 2 End at Playground
I like to start and end a lot of my runs at playgrounds. It gives my child an incentive to complete the run with me.
I use First/Then statements to set up the playground.
“First, we will run. Then, we will go to the playground.”
I keep reminding my son about the playground during the run to get him excited. “Ohh, I just remembered that after the run we will then go to the playground. I’m so excited!”
You don’t always have to end at the playground. My son loves creek play, so we run on a lot of trails that afterwards lead to time playing in the dirt, sand, or water.
I use First/Then statements to set up the playground.
“First, we will run. Then, we will go to the playground.”
I keep reminding my son about the playground during the run to get him excited. “Ohh, I just remembered that after the run we will then go to the playground. I’m so excited!”
You don’t always have to end at the playground. My son loves creek play, so we run on a lot of trails that afterwards lead to time playing in the dirt, sand, or water.
# 3 Have Some Toys in the Stroller
Set your child up for success with a little grab bag of toys. My son likes to take his toy cars for rides.
But colorful doodling tablets, aqua doodles, and any other doodle type thing makes for a great toy to have along for the ride.
A quick note about giving kids screens while in a stroller, I’m a big proponent that a kid needs to learn to be bored and not entertained 24/7. Time in the stroller is a good way for them to learn about the world around them instead of being distracted.
BUT….
If screens keep your kid quiet and help you get in your run, and your run makes you a better person and mom then by all means USE.THE.SCREENS.GUILTFREE. It won’t ruin them.
Looking to wean your kids from screens, start here
But colorful doodling tablets, aqua doodles, and any other doodle type thing makes for a great toy to have along for the ride.
A quick note about giving kids screens while in a stroller, I’m a big proponent that a kid needs to learn to be bored and not entertained 24/7. Time in the stroller is a good way for them to learn about the world around them instead of being distracted.
BUT….
If screens keep your kid quiet and help you get in your run, and your run makes you a better person and mom then by all means USE.THE.SCREENS.GUILTFREE. It won’t ruin them.
Looking to wean your kids from screens, start here
# 4 Take a Bike Along
Not a fast runner or a long distance runner? Take a bike along with you and go to a flat trail. Run while your kid bikes. I’ve done this before.
I’ll run a teeny bit ahead of him, turn around to meet him again, and repeat.
This doesn’t work if you want to go more than 2-3 miles. Your child, especially a younger one, will wear out. But, I have done this practice, and it does work.
I’ll run a teeny bit ahead of him, turn around to meet him again, and repeat.
This doesn’t work if you want to go more than 2-3 miles. Your child, especially a younger one, will wear out. But, I have done this practice, and it does work.
# 5 Give a Choice
It’s easy to want to bribe your child into getting into the stroller, but I advise against this. You can read why here.
Beth of Days With Grey offers this advice on her Instagram.
Beth says this, which I love, “Do what you enjoy with your kids by your side. It may look different, but we can make it work by giving choices.”
Beth of Days With Grey offers this advice on her Instagram.
- Stick with your plan → you are going to go on your run.
- Validate your kid’s feelings if they don’t want to go with you. → “I understand you don’t want to run right now, but this is important to me.”
- Offer your kid a choice with something that is a yes for you and win for him. → “Grab a lollipop or your chips, and I’ll meet you in the garage to hop in the stroller.”
Beth says this, which I love, “Do what you enjoy with your kids by your side. It may look different, but we can make it work by giving choices.”
Running (or exercising) will look different with your kids, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. We just need to adapt and be a little bit flexible.
And as always, go back to your greenlight strategies to get your kids more likely to agree (or at least not whine so much) about going for a run with you.
Learn how to implement these strategies with my parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life’s Hard Parenting Moments. Try it for free here.
And as always, go back to your greenlight strategies to get your kids more likely to agree (or at least not whine so much) about going for a run with you.
Learn how to implement these strategies with my parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life’s Hard Parenting Moments. Try it for free here.
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 3x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge, children's book, Henry's Hiccups, and parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram at @laurenbarrettwrites, and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum.
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Were you a runner before you had kids? Or maybe you are a new mom looking to get into running?
Either one you are in the right place.
As a competitive runner before I had kids, it was shocking how much running changed for me once I had my son and became a mom for the first time.
I had to let go of the idea that running was going to look the same as it once did, at least for this season of my life.
But, I also knew that running is important to me. It grounds me. It’s my stress reliever. It’s my free therapy. It’s my time to think and decompress. It’s my exercise. Running makes me a better mom and an overall better human.
So, with all that being true, I knew that I had to continue running. For the sake of my physical and mental health.
But, how do you get started with running as a new mom when life looks so much different now?
I have 8 tips to help you out.
Either one you are in the right place.
As a competitive runner before I had kids, it was shocking how much running changed for me once I had my son and became a mom for the first time.
I had to let go of the idea that running was going to look the same as it once did, at least for this season of my life.
But, I also knew that running is important to me. It grounds me. It’s my stress reliever. It’s my free therapy. It’s my time to think and decompress. It’s my exercise. Running makes me a better mom and an overall better human.
So, with all that being true, I knew that I had to continue running. For the sake of my physical and mental health.
But, how do you get started with running as a new mom when life looks so much different now?
I have 8 tips to help you out.
1. Just Start
The hardest part to committing to get back into running is the starting process. So I say pick a day to start and just start.
Mark this day on your calendar with a big X. Put it in your planner. Set a reminder on your phone. Tell your family.
And then just make like Nike and just do it.
Mark this day on your calendar with a big X. Put it in your planner. Set a reminder on your phone. Tell your family.
And then just make like Nike and just do it.
2. Start Small
But start small. If you try to go out and run the same amount of time and distance that you used to, you’ll get burnt out and are more likely to fail.
When I say start small, I literally mean start small. Like go out and run for 1 minute. That’s it. You’ll be able to cross it off. You’ll be able to say that you did it and accomplished something.
Anyone can run for a minute. This small win will make you more likely to go out and do it again because you know that you can.
So, the next day go out and do 2 minutes. The next day, 3 minutes and so on. Just adding one minute more a day won’t seem so daunting.
Also, don’t run every day. It will be too much at first. I recommend 3-4 times a week. Even now, I only do 5 days a week.
You did it!
When I say start small, I literally mean start small. Like go out and run for 1 minute. That’s it. You’ll be able to cross it off. You’ll be able to say that you did it and accomplished something.
Anyone can run for a minute. This small win will make you more likely to go out and do it again because you know that you can.
So, the next day go out and do 2 minutes. The next day, 3 minutes and so on. Just adding one minute more a day won’t seem so daunting.
Also, don’t run every day. It will be too much at first. I recommend 3-4 times a week. Even now, I only do 5 days a week.
You did it!
3. Make Running Routine
Try to run at the same time each day, so your kids and family know what to expect - whether you’re running with them in a stroller, leaving them behind with a spouse, or having them tag along with you on a bike.
A routine will also help you. If you mark it on your calendar everyday and schedule things around it since running will be a non negotiable and rigid, you’ll be more likely to get it done.
A routine will also help you. If you mark it on your calendar everyday and schedule things around it since running will be a non negotiable and rigid, you’ll be more likely to get it done.
4. Stretch
You may be wondering how stretching will help you get started running, but it will. Here’s why…if you stretch after you run, you won’t be so sore the next day. If you aren’t so sore the next day, you will want to run again.
So stretch before and after. Trust me. Your body will thank you.
So stretch before and after. Trust me. Your body will thank you.
5. Have a Script
Talk to your kids about how you are going on a run beforehand. Be upfront and honest with them, especially if they are at the toddler age, but even when they are still babies to help them understand from a young age and to get yourself in the habit of feeling good about going on a run.
“Running is very good for my mind. It helps me be calmer, not yell, and think better. It’s kind of how you feel better after watching your favorite show or playing your favorite game.”
Stick to the script and then just go.
“Running is very good for my mind. It helps me be calmer, not yell, and think better. It’s kind of how you feel better after watching your favorite show or playing your favorite game.”
Stick to the script and then just go.
6. Just Leave
In the same vein as our tip up above, you are going to be honest with why you are going on a run. Then, you are just going to leave. You aren’t going to ask for your children’s permission to go on a run. “Can Mommy go on a run?” N.O.P.E.
If you already set up this run with the family, you’re not going to stick around to placate protests and whines telling you to stay. Or to soothe a baby that might be crying for you (unless he’s hungry and needs you).
You’ve already done your job. Your job is to prepare your kids, show empathy for their feelings, and validate them. Your job is not to fix how they will feel or react to your going on a run.
When you come back, thank your child for playing independently while you did something very important to you.
If you already set up this run with the family, you’re not going to stick around to placate protests and whines telling you to stay. Or to soothe a baby that might be crying for you (unless he’s hungry and needs you).
You’ve already done your job. Your job is to prepare your kids, show empathy for their feelings, and validate them. Your job is not to fix how they will feel or react to your going on a run.
When you come back, thank your child for playing independently while you did something very important to you.
7. Tell Them a Story
Kids like stories. They can relate to them. Tell a story about a Mommy who went on a run and then had all these magical powers because she went. She could play so much. She laughed a lot. She had SO MUCH energy. She was unstoppable.
8. Try Fair Play
Having trouble finding time to go on a run? Try Fair Play. Fair Play is a system that helps partners with kids divide up the household responsibilities in a way that is fair. It allows space for each partner to find time to engage in self-care and exercise.
Everyone in the relationship deserves and needs this card. Work with your partner to carve out your times.
Everyone in the relationship deserves and needs this card. Work with your partner to carve out your times.
With these tips, you, new mom runners, can get started on your running journey. Pretty soon you’ll be running (and drinking) at all the brewery run clubs in your area and making all kinds of running friends.
Who knows you may even sign up for a race!
Want more actionable tips to deal with life’s hard parenting moments? Try Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life’s Hard Parenting Moments.
Try before you buy for free today.
Who knows you may even sign up for a race!
Want more actionable tips to deal with life’s hard parenting moments? Try Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life’s Hard Parenting Moments.
Try before you buy for free today.
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 3x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge, children's book, Henry's Hiccups, and parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram at @laurenbarrettwrites, and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum.
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Exciting news! I wrote, copyrighted and published a parenting guide, Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments, and it is available.
This is my latest passion project that I’ve been working on for almost a year.
What is Now What?
- A 180 page PDF parenting guide to life’s hard moments with your kids.
- Helps you build a checklist of what strategies work for you and your family, so you can access them anytime.
- Now What? recognizes that every kid is different and not every strategy works all the time.
- Here's a sneak peak of what you will find in Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments
*Module 1: My Child Won’t Listen (Greenlight Behavior). Now What?
*Module 2: My Child Is Whining (Yellow Light Behavior). Now What?
*Module 3: My Child is Hitting, Kicking, Biting, Throwing (Redlight Behavior). Now What?
*Module 4: My Child Won’t Go to Bed. Now What?
*Module 5: My Child is in the Middle of a Tantrum. Now What?
*Module 6: My Child Won’t Eat. Now What?
*Module 7: My Child is Scared/Anxious. Now What?
*Module 8: My Child Prefers One Parent. Now What?
*Module 9: My Child Gives Up Easily. Now What?
*Module 10: My Child Won’t Play Independently. Now What?
*Bonus Module: Some Thoughts on Screen Time
What Do You Get?
- 10 Modules with strategies
- Videos for each strategy
- Descriptions of each strategy
- Scripts
- Action steps
- Printable Checklists
- Links to expert sources
Who is this for?
Parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers of kids ages 1-7, but the ideal age is parents with kids ages 1-4 years old.
But I strongly recommend parents with babies ages birth to 1 to get it in order to get a head start.
But I strongly recommend parents with babies ages birth to 1 to get it in order to get a head start.
What is the Price?
$49.99.
Why Did I Create This?
I remember when I first had Henry, and it was sometimes hard to remember what to do when emotions were high.
So I wrote down the strategies that worked and the next time I had a similar moment, I would run down the list until I found what worked.
That’s what I want for you!
- Crying
- Overwhelmed
- Frustrated
- Loud noises
- Lack of sleep
So I wrote down the strategies that worked and the next time I had a similar moment, I would run down the list until I found what worked.
That’s what I want for you!
- To choose from 70+ strategies in an user friendly PDF guide
- Test and try what works
- Write it down and print it out
- Access it anytime that you have a hard moment.
FAQs
1. I'm pretty busy. Will I have time to do this course?
Of course! I've designed this handbook for busy parents in mind because I'm a busy mom myself. You can take each module at a time. The strategies are short. The videos are short. Use the strategy for a few days. If it works, write it down. Bam you're on your way to success. Also remember these strategies will actually save you time.
2. What if not all the strategies work?
They won't! And that's not because you're doing anything wrong. All kids are different. All moms are different. All families are different. Not every strategy will work 100% of the time. THE PURPOSE IS TO MAKE A CHECKLIST OF WHAT WORKS FOR YOU BY CHOOSING FROM OVER THE 70 STRATEGIES I OFFER. Some of the strategies in the modules I have used and now I don't. Some of the strategies I have used, stopped using, and now use again. Some of the strategies I have used consistently. Try them out, give them a chance, and if they don't work, don't add them to your list. Maybe you can revisit them later. Maybe you won't.
3. Okay, but how much time will I have to actually spend doing the course?
The course is self-paced, with about 30 minutes worth of content per module So, I’d say, schedule about 3-4 max. A small price to pay to build save you time in the long run and to build confident, calm families.
4. What ages is this for?
Ages 1-7. BUT I highly recommend buying even if you have a kid under 1, so you can be prepared. And hey, some of these strategies even work for tweens and teens.
5. Why should I be a member of the Insider's Scoop?
You get weekly emails that explore aspects of parenting. You can ask questions. You'll be part of a small community and won't get lost in the shuffle.
Of course! I've designed this handbook for busy parents in mind because I'm a busy mom myself. You can take each module at a time. The strategies are short. The videos are short. Use the strategy for a few days. If it works, write it down. Bam you're on your way to success. Also remember these strategies will actually save you time.
2. What if not all the strategies work?
They won't! And that's not because you're doing anything wrong. All kids are different. All moms are different. All families are different. Not every strategy will work 100% of the time. THE PURPOSE IS TO MAKE A CHECKLIST OF WHAT WORKS FOR YOU BY CHOOSING FROM OVER THE 70 STRATEGIES I OFFER. Some of the strategies in the modules I have used and now I don't. Some of the strategies I have used, stopped using, and now use again. Some of the strategies I have used consistently. Try them out, give them a chance, and if they don't work, don't add them to your list. Maybe you can revisit them later. Maybe you won't.
3. Okay, but how much time will I have to actually spend doing the course?
The course is self-paced, with about 30 minutes worth of content per module So, I’d say, schedule about 3-4 max. A small price to pay to build save you time in the long run and to build confident, calm families.
4. What ages is this for?
Ages 1-7. BUT I highly recommend buying even if you have a kid under 1, so you can be prepared. And hey, some of these strategies even work for tweens and teens.
5. Why should I be a member of the Insider's Scoop?
You get weekly emails that explore aspects of parenting. You can ask questions. You'll be part of a small community and won't get lost in the shuffle.
Testimonials
Here are what other parents and teachers are saying about Now What? Parenting Guide:
"Module 4- the Sleep module I learned the most from- I feel the strategies in this module were on point and give guidance on what the parent needs to do to set up a successful sleep environment. It did not focus on what the child needs to do. Because we can't control a child's behavior, only our own. so the focus needs to be on what WE can do rather than on how we can control others."
"I really learned a lot from the module discussing green light choice. As a mom and a teacher these strategies would be used several times throughout the day!"
" From toddlers to lower elementary students would gain a lot from this guide."
"Early childhood centers and elementary teachers would benefit from this guide."
"As an early childhood provider I found this course informative and useful. I would recommend this course to my colleagues as well as fellow parents."
"The guide was so easy to follow."
"I actually enjoyed all of the modules and gained valuable information."
"The Checklist format was useful, and focusing on the idea that some will work for your child and some won't, so choose those you want to use, and try them for two weeks. Also the idea of having it written down somewhere to help in the moment they are needed is great."
"Module 4- the Sleep module I learned the most from- I feel the strategies in this module were on point and give guidance on what the parent needs to do to set up a successful sleep environment. It did not focus on what the child needs to do. Because we can't control a child's behavior, only our own. so the focus needs to be on what WE can do rather than on how we can control others."
"I really learned a lot from the module discussing green light choice. As a mom and a teacher these strategies would be used several times throughout the day!"
" From toddlers to lower elementary students would gain a lot from this guide."
"Early childhood centers and elementary teachers would benefit from this guide."
"As an early childhood provider I found this course informative and useful. I would recommend this course to my colleagues as well as fellow parents."
"The guide was so easy to follow."
"I actually enjoyed all of the modules and gained valuable information."
"The Checklist format was useful, and focusing on the idea that some will work for your child and some won't, so choose those you want to use, and try them for two weeks. Also the idea of having it written down somewhere to help in the moment they are needed is great."
Try for Free First
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 3x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge, children's book, Henry's Hiccups, and parenting guide Now What? Mindful Checklists for Life's Hard Parenting Moments, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram at @Lauren Barrett, and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum.
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I was pleasantly surprised with Minneapolis in the state of 10,000 lakes. Minneapolis sure did have a lot of lakes itself.
I tagged along for my husband's on-sight work trip to Minneapolis from a Monday to a Thursday. While most of his days were full of meetings and networking with his coworkers, I had ample time to take full advantage of the city and explore on my own. Here's what I did and what I liked...
I tagged along for my husband's on-sight work trip to Minneapolis from a Monday to a Thursday. While most of his days were full of meetings and networking with his coworkers, I had ample time to take full advantage of the city and explore on my own. Here's what I did and what I liked...
The Logistics
- We flew from RDU Airport to MSP Airport and arrived to Minneapolis around 1:00 local time.
- We took a quick 15 minute Uber to The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton located in the heart of downtown.
- We stayed in Minneapolis for 3 nights and roughly 4 days
Day 1
After checking into the hotel and unpacking, we ventured into the indoor shopping plaza with an outdoor feel located attached to our hotel for some lunch.
Lunch was Sotti, a Mediterranean style fast-food restaurant and it was delicious for being fast foodish.
We spent the remaining hours before dinner relaxing and getting ready.
A shuttle picked us up around 6:00 to take us to Birch's on the Lake, a gastropub and brewery specializing in seafood and New American fare, located just right out of the city on Long Lake.
Dinner here was really the highlight of the day. My husband's company had arranged for an all-inclusive, already paid for four course meal with an open bar.
Appetizers and drinks started the cocktail hour portion of the night and then we were led into the dining area for a seated family style meal of salads, fried chicken, ribs, risotti, mashed potatoes, and an option of cheesecake or chocolate cake for dessert. After dinner, we drank some more on the patio outside and watched the sun set over the lake.
Dinner at Birch's was really quite the event and highly recommend putting this restaurant on your list of places to dine in Minneapolis.
I went to bed as soon as I arrived back to the hotel, for I was really stuffed.
Lunch was Sotti, a Mediterranean style fast-food restaurant and it was delicious for being fast foodish.
We spent the remaining hours before dinner relaxing and getting ready.
A shuttle picked us up around 6:00 to take us to Birch's on the Lake, a gastropub and brewery specializing in seafood and New American fare, located just right out of the city on Long Lake.
Dinner here was really the highlight of the day. My husband's company had arranged for an all-inclusive, already paid for four course meal with an open bar.
Appetizers and drinks started the cocktail hour portion of the night and then we were led into the dining area for a seated family style meal of salads, fried chicken, ribs, risotti, mashed potatoes, and an option of cheesecake or chocolate cake for dessert. After dinner, we drank some more on the patio outside and watched the sun set over the lake.
Dinner at Birch's was really quite the event and highly recommend putting this restaurant on your list of places to dine in Minneapolis.
I went to bed as soon as I arrived back to the hotel, for I was really stuffed.
Day 2
I woke up early to make the most of my day entirely alone and up to my discretion.
Breakfast was at People's Organic, located in the attached mall. I got the steel cut oats, and it was all right.
After a quick trip to Target to get some supplies for the day, I headed a few blocks away to catch the metro.
*A quick note about the metro. It was pretty easy to navigate. I purchased a ticket for $2 to be able to ride unlimitedly for two hours, but I never had to show my ticket. On the way to my destination, there were no problems. On the way back, I felt uncomfortable, not necessarily unsafe per say, but highly uncomfortable. A lot of what I assume were homeless or drug addicts were onboard with some questionable behavior, including one guy leering at me. Being the only woman onboard, I was ready to get off. But overall, the metro is a cheap and easy way to get around.*
I took the metro to Minnehaha Park. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I took a walk to Minnehaha Falls, rented a quad bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and rode it around the park for an hour, and finally ended my time at the park by eating lunch hand drinking a beer at Sea Salt Eatery, located inside the park.
After a quick pitstop back to the hotel, I changed into my bathing suit and headed by Uber to Lake Harriet where I ordered ice cream from Pickles and sunbathed on one of the lake's two beaches.
My last adventure for the day was dinner and beer at Pryes Brewing Company located near the Mississippi River in the Warehouse District. I ordered the Riverside beer and the goat cheese pizza, both which were delicious and refreshing.
After a jammed packed day, which I mostly spent entirely alone, I went to bed early.
Breakfast was at People's Organic, located in the attached mall. I got the steel cut oats, and it was all right.
After a quick trip to Target to get some supplies for the day, I headed a few blocks away to catch the metro.
*A quick note about the metro. It was pretty easy to navigate. I purchased a ticket for $2 to be able to ride unlimitedly for two hours, but I never had to show my ticket. On the way to my destination, there were no problems. On the way back, I felt uncomfortable, not necessarily unsafe per say, but highly uncomfortable. A lot of what I assume were homeless or drug addicts were onboard with some questionable behavior, including one guy leering at me. Being the only woman onboard, I was ready to get off. But overall, the metro is a cheap and easy way to get around.*
I took the metro to Minnehaha Park. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I took a walk to Minnehaha Falls, rented a quad bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and rode it around the park for an hour, and finally ended my time at the park by eating lunch hand drinking a beer at Sea Salt Eatery, located inside the park.
After a quick pitstop back to the hotel, I changed into my bathing suit and headed by Uber to Lake Harriet where I ordered ice cream from Pickles and sunbathed on one of the lake's two beaches.
My last adventure for the day was dinner and beer at Pryes Brewing Company located near the Mississippi River in the Warehouse District. I ordered the Riverside beer and the goat cheese pizza, both which were delicious and refreshing.
After a jammed packed day, which I mostly spent entirely alone, I went to bed early.
Day 3
I woke early again to do a run near the Mississippi River by Mill Ruins Park and across the Stone Arch Bridge. I had an avocado, egg, and tomato toast for breakfast at Dunn Brothers Coffee.
Afterwards, I rented a bike from Nice Ride. Nice Rides are located all throughout the city. All you do is download the app, scan the barcode on the bike, grab and go, and return to any location throughout town. I rode the bike all along the path by the river and it was a really enjoyable ride. I had the bike for about an hour, and the entire trip cost me $8.25.
I had a quick shower and then wandered down to Target Field for a Twins day game at 12:10. James was able to meet me at 1, and we had another MLB ballfield down. I had delicious street tacos for lunch at the ballpark. The game was pretty uneventful, but we liked the stadium.
After the game, James had more work events to attend to, so I made my way to Caribou Coffee to read and have a few snacks.
For dinner that night, plus ones were able to attend dinner. We had an outside dinner at Owamni by the Sioux Chef, a restaurant specializing in Indigenous cuisine. The restaurant was located near where I ran and biked earlier in the day and featured views of the river. The food was beyond good. Again, we had an open bar and a multi-course meal of bison meatballs, gazpacho soup, and some type of potato and trout dishes. 5 stars for me.
We hung out by the hotel bar afterwards and then called it a night.
Afterwards, I rented a bike from Nice Ride. Nice Rides are located all throughout the city. All you do is download the app, scan the barcode on the bike, grab and go, and return to any location throughout town. I rode the bike all along the path by the river and it was a really enjoyable ride. I had the bike for about an hour, and the entire trip cost me $8.25.
I had a quick shower and then wandered down to Target Field for a Twins day game at 12:10. James was able to meet me at 1, and we had another MLB ballfield down. I had delicious street tacos for lunch at the ballpark. The game was pretty uneventful, but we liked the stadium.
After the game, James had more work events to attend to, so I made my way to Caribou Coffee to read and have a few snacks.
For dinner that night, plus ones were able to attend dinner. We had an outside dinner at Owamni by the Sioux Chef, a restaurant specializing in Indigenous cuisine. The restaurant was located near where I ran and biked earlier in the day and featured views of the river. The food was beyond good. Again, we had an open bar and a multi-course meal of bison meatballs, gazpacho soup, and some type of potato and trout dishes. 5 stars for me.
We hung out by the hotel bar afterwards and then called it a night.
Day 4
We were technically checking at 11, but we had the whole day until our flight. I started out with an early run and then a bagel breakfast at People's Organic again.
We showered, packed up our luggage and Ubered to the Mall of America in Bloomington, near the airport. If you aren't into shopping, the Mall of America is still a sight to see. There's a whole mini theme park plus an aquarium, comedy club, escape room, Crayola Factory, and many more novelty exhibits and shops. We ended up eating lunch at Crave, and then I got two of the best cookies I've ever had at Baking Betty's. They were goat cheese and jam and a sea salt nutella. You can order online, and I'm thinking of doing that.
We headed to the airport, thus ending our trip to Minneapolis.
We showered, packed up our luggage and Ubered to the Mall of America in Bloomington, near the airport. If you aren't into shopping, the Mall of America is still a sight to see. There's a whole mini theme park plus an aquarium, comedy club, escape room, Crayola Factory, and many more novelty exhibits and shops. We ended up eating lunch at Crave, and then I got two of the best cookies I've ever had at Baking Betty's. They were goat cheese and jam and a sea salt nutella. You can order online, and I'm thinking of doing that.
We headed to the airport, thus ending our trip to Minneapolis.
Overall
I really enjoyed Minneapolis. The city is easy to get around, whether you are taking public transportation, renting a bike, or walking. The weather was pretty nice in the summer. The food was good. And there was plenty to do.
If I had more time, I would have visited Lake of the Isles and rented a kayak with Paddle Share, a unique concept of simply reserving a kayak and then grabbing it from a locker. I also would have loved to explore more of northern Minnesota and visited one of its bigger lakes.
Overall, Minneapolis gets an A.
If I had more time, I would have visited Lake of the Isles and rented a kayak with Paddle Share, a unique concept of simply reserving a kayak and then grabbing it from a locker. I also would have loved to explore more of northern Minnesota and visited one of its bigger lakes.
Overall, Minneapolis gets an A.
| | Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum. |
Toddler tantrums are inevitable. I have talked about this before.
And there are lot of strategies out there on how to handle tantrums, but did you know that there are different stages to a toddler's tantrum and not every strategy works at every stage?
In today's blog, I'll break down each stage of a toddler tantrum and what you should do at each stage. You'll be on your way to calmly handling any toddler tantrum even when they pitch a fit for wanting to eat with the green plate instead of the red plate even though at first you did give them the green plate, but they said they wanted the red plate.
And there are lot of strategies out there on how to handle tantrums, but did you know that there are different stages to a toddler's tantrum and not every strategy works at every stage?
In today's blog, I'll break down each stage of a toddler tantrum and what you should do at each stage. You'll be on your way to calmly handling any toddler tantrum even when they pitch a fit for wanting to eat with the green plate instead of the red plate even though at first you did give them the green plate, but they said they wanted the red plate.
Stages of a Tantrum
Like any good book, a toddler's tantrum follows the same elements of a plot.
First, we have the BEGINNING or EXPOSITION. This is when the reason for the tantrum is introduced. Now, sometimes the tantrum can end before it even started.
Maybe on this particular day they are able to handle it. Maybe you prepped for this kind of thing, and your toddler takes it in stride. That's great! Although this tantrum would make for a very short and boring story, we are thrilled as parents that a toddler was able to happily and healthily move on.
Second, we have the RISING ACTION. The reason for the tantrum is introduced and now our toddler is starting to process what just happened. There might be some reasoning, begging, whining, pouting, stomping, crying, but it isn't all out, although it is ramping up to be.
Again, a tantrum might be stopped somewhere along the line of the rising action.
But, if it is not, we are lead to the CLIMAX of a toddler's tantrum. This is the point where our toddler's brain is totally dysregulated. They can't think clearly. They can't reason. They might not even be able to form sentences. This is an all out meltdown.
Finally, our toddler is going to start to calm down in the FALLING ACTION. This can take a while depending on the intensity of the climax. Again, in this stage they might try to reason with you or beg you. They, might have also gotten all their emotions out and be completely depleted.
Lastly, they will reach a RESOLUTION where they are back to their normal selves and they are able to move on with life.
So, now that we know the 5 stages of a toddler's tantrum what do we do during each stage.
THE BEGINNING OF A TANTRUM
Some common reasons for a tantrum are the following:
- Hunger
- Holding a boundary
- Something unexpected
- Lack of attention
- Wants something
- Frustration
- Transition
- Tiredness
To help a toddler healthily handle those reasons, I like to use a lot of GREENLIGHT STRATEGIES throughout my day.
While greenlight strategies will never totally reduce the number of tantrums a toddler has, they will help reduce them.
Also, remember this. All kids have tantrums. You are not a bad parent if your toddler is having a tantrum. Tantrums are healthy. They are your toddler's way of saying he needs help and this is an opportunity to help him.
But how do we help?
THE RISING ACTION
During the very beginning of the rising action, you want to CALM YOURSELF FIRST. If you aren't calm, you aren't in control. Your toddler is. And toddler's do not like it when they are in control. They really don't.
The second thing to do is HOLD BOUNDARIES. If boundaries aren't held, the tantrum is over and your toddler realizes he can cry harder and longer to get what he wants for next time.
Third, you are going to VALIDATE FEELINGS, VALIDATE THE MAGNITUDE OF THOSE FEELINGS, and use the magic phrase "YOU DIDN'T WANT THAT TO HAPPEN."
If the tantrum is still ramping up, you can try strategies such as MAGIC BREATHS - where you both model how to breath and help your toddler take deep breaths. You can use SIGN LANGUAGE to help your toddler calm down. You can also become a BROADCASTER.
Hopefully, those strategies work, but if not, you've reached the CLIMAX.
THE CLIMAX
Dun, dun, dun. You've reached the CLIMAX. Sit back and enjoy with some popcorn because one of the best strategies is to LET IT RIDE.
The CLIMAX isn't the time for trying to ask questions or reasoning or lecturing. Nothing is totally computing and making sense in your toddler's brain.
The best thing to do is just be there. Reassure your toddlers that they are safe, you are here for them, you love them. Nothing is worse for them than feeling like Mommy and Daddy can't handle their emotions.
If my son lets me, I hold him during this time. I MODEL DEEP BREATHS - I don't ask him to though. I might continue using SIGN LANGUAGE or BECOMING A BROADCASTER. But mostly, I just hold and rock him and repeat my own mantra if I'm having a hard time with the tantrum.
I wish you the best and remember your toddler isn't doing this to be bad.
THE FALLING ACTION
Much like in the RISING ACTION, we are going to apply the same strategies but work a little backward. I really like to do some REDIRECTION or CONNECTION WITH HUMOR during this stage.
And, continue to hold those boundaries because our toddlers might try to ask again for something you said No to.
THE RESOLUTION
Our toddlers are back to normal. Now, is the time to teach, repair, scaffold, lecture in a calm, nice way without any guilt or shame.
For every family, this can look differently. The strategies listed above are some of my favorites. They are GREENLIGHT STRATEGIES. We use these strategies to help our kids learn what to do the next time the same problem that caused the tantrum arises.
We are setting ourselves and our toddler up for success!
For every family, this can look differently. The strategies listed above are some of my favorites. They are GREENLIGHT STRATEGIES. We use these strategies to help our kids learn what to do the next time the same problem that caused the tantrum arises.
We are setting ourselves and our toddler up for success!
NOW WHAT?
Not sure what some of those strategies are above or how to apply them?
In my Module: My Child Is In the Middle of a Tantrum. Now What? I break down each strategy with a description and video. I also provide scripts on what you can say. Get it for free here. Or sign up below
In my Module: My Child Is In the Middle of a Tantrum. Now What? I break down each strategy with a description and video. I also provide scripts on what you can say. Get it for free here. Or sign up below
You can also take a deeper dive into Greenlight Strategies and more in my parenting guide: NOW WHAT? MINDFUL CHECKLISTS FOR LIFE'S HARD PARENTING MOMENTS.
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free guide on what to do during the middle of a tantrum.
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Country Roads Take Me Home....
West Virginia is my home state and it really is a beautiful state. It has a lot to offer.
In my quest to visit all of the National Parks in the US, I knew New River Gorge National Park, America's newest national park, had to be on the top of my list.
This summer of July '22 I made that happen. With my mom, dad, aunt, cousin, and two kids, including my own, we traveled to New River Gorge National Park and experienced some breathtaking views, thrilling rapids, fresh mountain air, and the best activities to do with kids there.
It is truly so important to take kids outside and into nature.
Read on for 5 of the best activities to do with kids while visiting this park.
West Virginia is my home state and it really is a beautiful state. It has a lot to offer.
In my quest to visit all of the National Parks in the US, I knew New River Gorge National Park, America's newest national park, had to be on the top of my list.
This summer of July '22 I made that happen. With my mom, dad, aunt, cousin, and two kids, including my own, we traveled to New River Gorge National Park and experienced some breathtaking views, thrilling rapids, fresh mountain air, and the best activities to do with kids there.
It is truly so important to take kids outside and into nature.
Read on for 5 of the best activities to do with kids while visiting this park.
#1. Stay at Adventures on the Gorge
Adventures on the Gorge is a mecca for kids. You don't ever have to leave the resort and already it has some of the best activities for kids.
We stayed in one of the cabins called Lost Paddle. It has a master bedroom with a king sized bed and bathroom. Upstairs in the loft area has two double beds, a pull out chair (perfect for a small kid), and a bathroom. The living room has a pull out couch and some nice sitting chairs. Plus there is a fully stocked kitchen. Outside has a hot tub on the deck and a fire pit and grill down below.
The cabin alone was fun for kids by doing activities like playing in the hot tub, digging in the mud, and making a fire to roast s'mores.
But the rest of the resort was the best.
For starters, the pool, Canyon Falls, is right on the rim of the New River Gorge with incredible views of the New River Gorge Bridge.
The 3,000 square foot pool has a kiddie splash area, waterfalls, and an upper and lower pool with a huge surrounding deck and a snack bar. You could spend a whole day there.
The rest of the resort has four other dining options: Sweet Java Falls, a coffee and pastry shop; Chetty's Pub, a restaurant with burgers, beers, and wings; Smokey's on the Gorge, more of an upscale restaurant with premiere seating on the deck with spectacular views; and Rendezvous River Lodge which you can rent out.
In addition to dining, there are family activities such as disc golfing, aerial activities (zipline and tree treks), paintball, and a playground that our little kids loved.
Adventures on the Gorge definitely tops the list as the number one place to stay and explore with kids.
We stayed in one of the cabins called Lost Paddle. It has a master bedroom with a king sized bed and bathroom. Upstairs in the loft area has two double beds, a pull out chair (perfect for a small kid), and a bathroom. The living room has a pull out couch and some nice sitting chairs. Plus there is a fully stocked kitchen. Outside has a hot tub on the deck and a fire pit and grill down below.
The cabin alone was fun for kids by doing activities like playing in the hot tub, digging in the mud, and making a fire to roast s'mores.
But the rest of the resort was the best.
For starters, the pool, Canyon Falls, is right on the rim of the New River Gorge with incredible views of the New River Gorge Bridge.
The 3,000 square foot pool has a kiddie splash area, waterfalls, and an upper and lower pool with a huge surrounding deck and a snack bar. You could spend a whole day there.
The rest of the resort has four other dining options: Sweet Java Falls, a coffee and pastry shop; Chetty's Pub, a restaurant with burgers, beers, and wings; Smokey's on the Gorge, more of an upscale restaurant with premiere seating on the deck with spectacular views; and Rendezvous River Lodge which you can rent out.
In addition to dining, there are family activities such as disc golfing, aerial activities (zipline and tree treks), paintball, and a playground that our little kids loved.
Adventures on the Gorge definitely tops the list as the number one place to stay and explore with kids.
#2 Go on a Hike
Get off the mainland and take your kids on a hike for an activity.
Adventures on the Gorge had an easy path that went around the resort that my son loved being "the leader" on.
Want to go on a hike with a more scenic views of the gorge? Try Endless Wall Trail or Long Point Trail. Both are around 3 miles which is the threshold for little kids.
The hike up the Endless Wall Trail is easy for kids to navigate, but once you get to the top, there are steep drop offs if you want to take in the view. If you are nervous about this, either keep the kids on the main trail with another person and then switch as both of you look out the vista or strap them into a backpack.
However, if you stay on the main trail, there are no steep cliffs.
Adventures on the Gorge had an easy path that went around the resort that my son loved being "the leader" on.
Want to go on a hike with a more scenic views of the gorge? Try Endless Wall Trail or Long Point Trail. Both are around 3 miles which is the threshold for little kids.
The hike up the Endless Wall Trail is easy for kids to navigate, but once you get to the top, there are steep drop offs if you want to take in the view. If you are nervous about this, either keep the kids on the main trail with another person and then switch as both of you look out the vista or strap them into a backpack.
However, if you stay on the main trail, there are no steep cliffs.
#3 See Waterfalls
There are about 9 total waterfalls in the whole park, but we only went to one, and it was such as great activity to do with little kids.
We went to Cathedral Falls which is right off the road.
Kids can literally play in the shallow waters before the falls all day. My son had a blast turning over and piling rocks. Such a good sensory activity.
We went to Cathedral Falls which is right off the road.
Kids can literally play in the shallow waters before the falls all day. My son had a blast turning over and piling rocks. Such a good sensory activity.
#4 Go Rafting
Okay, so little kids might not be able to do this. Most trips you have to be 12+.
But this was too good not to do. Keep the little kids at the pool with a designated scaredy cat and sign up for this trip.
We did the 1/2 day run on the New River and had a blast. We booked through Adventures on the Gorge.
There will be 8 people + a guide in one raft, and we probably went through 8 or more Class III rapids. The tour guides were funny, and we got beer on the bus ride back.
If you're adventurous, do this! But also my 61 year old Mom did it (no offense, Mom), so it isn't too strenuous.
But this was too good not to do. Keep the little kids at the pool with a designated scaredy cat and sign up for this trip.
We did the 1/2 day run on the New River and had a blast. We booked through Adventures on the Gorge.
There will be 8 people + a guide in one raft, and we probably went through 8 or more Class III rapids. The tour guides were funny, and we got beer on the bus ride back.
If you're adventurous, do this! But also my 61 year old Mom did it (no offense, Mom), so it isn't too strenuous.
#5 Swim in the Lakes
We didn't do this one, but if we had an extra day, we would have.
Head on over to Summersville Lake where you can swim, boat, fish, or rent kayaks.
A great day trip for little kids.
Head on over to Summersville Lake where you can swim, boat, fish, or rent kayaks.
A great day trip for little kids.
Overall, I have three takeaways about New River Gorge National Park.
1.) Don't sleep on West Virginia. It's beautiful. The people are great.
2.) Take your little kids out in nature.
3.) The New River Gorge National Park has lots of great activities for little kids.
1.) Don't sleep on West Virginia. It's beautiful. The people are great.
2.) Take your little kids out in nature.
3.) The New River Gorge National Park has lots of great activities for little kids.
| | Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free parenting checklists. |
Having lived in the Triangle area for almost 11 years now (Raleigh and Garner), I’ve visited a fair share of parks in Wake County, and in the last 3 years I’ve really ramped up our visits.
My son was born in 2019. The Pandemic hit in 2020. I’m also a teacher. So we’ve used those times when everything was shut down and the summer to explore all the Greenways and parks in Wake County. As an outdoor mom myself, I really want my son to be an outdoor kid.
I’ve gathered my list of the 11 best parks for Triangle area families to explore. I’ll list the parks and what they have to offer. The list is in no particular order.
My son was born in 2019. The Pandemic hit in 2020. I’m also a teacher. So we’ve used those times when everything was shut down and the summer to explore all the Greenways and parks in Wake County. As an outdoor mom myself, I really want my son to be an outdoor kid.
I’ve gathered my list of the 11 best parks for Triangle area families to explore. I’ll list the parks and what they have to offer. The list is in no particular order.
1. Marla Dorrel Park - Cary, NC
I know I said that I didn’t put these parks in any order, but this might take the number one playground in the Triangle area.
That’s because it has one key word: shade. Almost the entire park is covered in shade which makes it perfect on a hot summer’s day.
Also, the park is conveniently located next to one of Cary’s many Greenways, so if you wanted to take a walk too, you could. It connects to another playground, MacDonalds Woods Park, too.
On the weekdays, this park doesn’t get crowded at all. In fact, we’ve almost had the park to ourselves a couple of times. My son played in the park’s gigantic sandbox, and I read a book. It was perfect.
The playground is divided into three big sections and every section is great in my opinion. One section seems to be for smaller children. The middle section is more for older kids even though my son (3) enjoys this section when it isn’t crowded. The last section seems to be for kids of all ages. This section has the sandbox, swings, and a very accessible musical playset.
There is also a section with a little hill with a dragon feature in it and a green space for kids to run around.
The park also features:
That’s because it has one key word: shade. Almost the entire park is covered in shade which makes it perfect on a hot summer’s day.
Also, the park is conveniently located next to one of Cary’s many Greenways, so if you wanted to take a walk too, you could. It connects to another playground, MacDonalds Woods Park, too.
On the weekdays, this park doesn’t get crowded at all. In fact, we’ve almost had the park to ourselves a couple of times. My son played in the park’s gigantic sandbox, and I read a book. It was perfect.
The playground is divided into three big sections and every section is great in my opinion. One section seems to be for smaller children. The middle section is more for older kids even though my son (3) enjoys this section when it isn’t crowded. The last section seems to be for kids of all ages. This section has the sandbox, swings, and a very accessible musical playset.
There is also a section with a little hill with a dragon feature in it and a green space for kids to run around.
The park also features:
- A basketball court
- Skate park
- Picnic shelter with restrooms
- Multiple picnic tables
- Public art
- Misting garden (LOVE THIS!)
2. Jack Smith Park - Cary, NC
I really like this park for its splash pad, but the overall park does lack shade (Can you tell shade is important to us? Haha).
The splash pad gets turned on mid-May and is free to the public. The splash pad does have tables with umbrellas and a large wall with an overhang for parents to hang out. Restrooms and changing areas/showers are nearby.
The rest of the park features a playground with slides, swings, climbing areas, and those animal seesaw things.
There are also picnic shelters, a dog park, a climbing wall, greenways throughout the park, and public art on display such as the whirligigs, and Suffolk sheep grazing in the fields.
The splash pad can get crowded, so go early to claim your table.
The splash pad gets turned on mid-May and is free to the public. The splash pad does have tables with umbrellas and a large wall with an overhang for parents to hang out. Restrooms and changing areas/showers are nearby.
The rest of the park features a playground with slides, swings, climbing areas, and those animal seesaw things.
There are also picnic shelters, a dog park, a climbing wall, greenways throughout the park, and public art on display such as the whirligigs, and Suffolk sheep grazing in the fields.
The splash pad can get crowded, so go early to claim your table.
3. John Chavis Memorial Park - Raleigh, NC
Newly renovated Chavis Park, for short, is really nice. It’s just what a downtown city park needed.
The views of downtown are great.
My one complaint is that there is very little shade, and it can get HOT in the summer.
The park is centered around the community center which has programs and classes and has a gym, second floor track, and fitness center. The community center opens up into a nice outdoor terrace that overlooks the downtown, the water feature, and playground. Visitors can lounge in the many chairs and tables located throughout the balcony. Again, shade is limited.
Go down the stairs and you get to the water feature. This water feature reminds me of something you would see in downtown NYC. Water basically squirts from the ground to create different size fountains. Kids have fun running through it.
The playground has rubber safety surfacing. The playground includes areas for ages 2 to 5 years and 5 to 12 years, and several features are inviting for teenagers and adults. The playground has adult exercise equipment, a skywalk climbing feature, and nature play elements.
The rest of the sprawling park has an outdoor track, the Historic Allan Herschell Carousel (look up hours because it’s often closed), baseball fields, multipurpose fields, and many places to rent out (meeting rooms, fields, reception hall, picnic shelters, and more).
The views of downtown are great.
My one complaint is that there is very little shade, and it can get HOT in the summer.
The park is centered around the community center which has programs and classes and has a gym, second floor track, and fitness center. The community center opens up into a nice outdoor terrace that overlooks the downtown, the water feature, and playground. Visitors can lounge in the many chairs and tables located throughout the balcony. Again, shade is limited.
Go down the stairs and you get to the water feature. This water feature reminds me of something you would see in downtown NYC. Water basically squirts from the ground to create different size fountains. Kids have fun running through it.
The playground has rubber safety surfacing. The playground includes areas for ages 2 to 5 years and 5 to 12 years, and several features are inviting for teenagers and adults. The playground has adult exercise equipment, a skywalk climbing feature, and nature play elements.
The rest of the sprawling park has an outdoor track, the Historic Allan Herschell Carousel (look up hours because it’s often closed), baseball fields, multipurpose fields, and many places to rent out (meeting rooms, fields, reception hall, picnic shelters, and more).
4. Pullen Park - Raleigh, NC
This might be my son’s favorite park, and it really is a gem. My only complaint is that it can get really, really crowded, which means that you have to keep a close eye on your kids at the playground.
Pullen Park is dubbed an amusement park and looks like one as you walk in. You can really make a day out of this park by renting a pedal boat, riding the carousel, riding the train, and riding the little mini boats that go in a circle. Stop for lunch at the cafe. And then stroll over the bridges and walk alongside the pond and view Japanese inspired trees, resting at the many benches or picnic areas
There are four areas to the playground:
Pullen Park is dubbed an amusement park and looks like one as you walk in. You can really make a day out of this park by renting a pedal boat, riding the carousel, riding the train, and riding the little mini boats that go in a circle. Stop for lunch at the cafe. And then stroll over the bridges and walk alongside the pond and view Japanese inspired trees, resting at the many benches or picnic areas
There are four areas to the playground:
- Swing Area: (All ages) 10 traditional belt swings for all ages, 1 preschool full-bucket seat swing, 1 accessible molded bucket swing, and 1 tire swing
- School Age Climb and Slide: (5-12 years old) 2 universally accessible slides, 6 climbing opportunities, 1 see-saw, and 1 shade structure
- Sand Play: (2-12 years old) 2 sand diggers, 1 accessible sand digger, 2 shade structures, 1 playhouse, Music making equipment and stage, and 1 accessible spring platform
- Preschool Playground: (2-5 years old) Enclosed by a positive barrier of fence and vegetation, 3 slides,1 preschool full-bucket seat swing,1 accessible molded bucket swing, 1 see-saw, stepping stones, and 2 shade structures
- Tennis courts
- Athletic fields
- Arts Center
- Theatre in the Park
- Shelters and Rentals
- Stage and event lawn
- Aquatic Center
5. Lake Benson Park - Garner, NC
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We really like this park. Although it is very closeby to our house, I still would probably visit if not.
The park has three separate playgrounds and a gigantic field where you can catch people playing flag football, frisbee, or tag on a nice day.
There is a trail that runs throughout the whole park. Some of it is paved and the other is not and in the woods. Some of the trails connect to another park, White Deer Park, which makes the list too.
There are shelters for rent and a place where you can rent kayaks or motorized boats which we have done twice and enjoyed. My only wish was that the park had a little beach where we could have docked the boats or my son to have played in the sand.
However, the park does have some good community events such as the Easter and 4th of July events.
The park has three separate playgrounds and a gigantic field where you can catch people playing flag football, frisbee, or tag on a nice day.
There is a trail that runs throughout the whole park. Some of it is paved and the other is not and in the woods. Some of the trails connect to another park, White Deer Park, which makes the list too.
There are shelters for rent and a place where you can rent kayaks or motorized boats which we have done twice and enjoyed. My only wish was that the park had a little beach where we could have docked the boats or my son to have played in the sand.
However, the park does have some good community events such as the Easter and 4th of July events.
6. Lake Crabtree Park - Raleigh, NC
This park is close to being at the top of my favorites. It has everything my son loves - a beach near the lake, trails, and a playground.
It has a lot of things I love too - hiking/walking trails, boat rentals, and I even took my SUP out on the lake.
Other features include:
It has a lot of things I love too - hiking/walking trails, boat rentals, and I even took my SUP out on the lake.
Other features include:
- Gardens
- Open play areas
- Picnic shelters
- Restrooms
- Fishing
- Educational programs
- Bicycling/mountain biking trails
- Bike skills area
- Boating
- Volleyball
7. Peach Road Park - Raleigh, NC
This park is severely underrated, and I doubt many people in the Triangle Area know about it. While it is a humble neighborhood park, which was located right next to my old neighborhood, and doesn’t have the features of the much larger parks we already talked about, it still is a nice little gem.
For starters, it isn’t crowded. Secondly, if you are like me and try to take your kids to diverse parks in order for your kids to play with and see kids of different races, this park is located in a mostly Latinx community and has a cultural center with classes and programs.
The park also has three courts: basketball court, handball court, and futsal pitch (a fast-paced variant of soccer). It also has a multipurpose field.
There are two playground sections. One is for kids ages 2-5 and the other is for ages 5-12. I believe there is a sand pit.
While the kids play, parents can utilize the adult fitness stations.
Lastly, there are some really cool artwork and murals throughout the park.
Don’t sleep on this park.
For starters, it isn’t crowded. Secondly, if you are like me and try to take your kids to diverse parks in order for your kids to play with and see kids of different races, this park is located in a mostly Latinx community and has a cultural center with classes and programs.
The park also has three courts: basketball court, handball court, and futsal pitch (a fast-paced variant of soccer). It also has a multipurpose field.
There are two playground sections. One is for kids ages 2-5 and the other is for ages 5-12. I believe there is a sand pit.
While the kids play, parents can utilize the adult fitness stations.
Lastly, there are some really cool artwork and murals throughout the park.
Don’t sleep on this park.
8. Buffaloe Road Athletic Park - Raleigh, NC
While the playground isn’t the main feature of this park and really isn’t anything special, I like this park for its unique indoor water aquatic center. It has three waterslides, a lazy river, lap lanes, and a wading splash pad area for little kids. It really isn’t that expensive to get in either.
Other than that, the park has lots of baseball fields, a dog park, and an outdoor track.
Plus, it’s conveniently located next to a number of Greenway access points.
Other than that, the park has lots of baseball fields, a dog park, and an outdoor track.
Plus, it’s conveniently located next to a number of Greenway access points.
9. Millbrook Exchange Park - Raleigh, NC
This park has a lot to offer: community center with gymnasium, fitness center, programs and class; tennis courts; dog park; shelters; basketball courts; playground; and baseball and softball fields.
But why we love the park is mainly for its pool. There is an indoor section opened year round where my son took swimming lessons once. Then, the outdoor part is a wading pool and sprayground that is opened seasonally. In the summer, you can bounce back and forth from the indoor, big pool to the outdoor wading pool.
But why we love the park is mainly for its pool. There is an indoor section opened year round where my son took swimming lessons once. Then, the outdoor part is a wading pool and sprayground that is opened seasonally. In the summer, you can bounce back and forth from the indoor, big pool to the outdoor wading pool.
10. Laurel Hills Park - Sassafras All Children’s Playground - Raleigh, NC
Laurel Hills Park has a community center with gym, dance studio, classes and more plus numerous shelters, fields, and courts.
But the main attraction is the Sassafras All Children’s Playground, the creme de la creme of playgrounds.
Taken straight from its description…
The 3.5-acre site includes a playground for children of all abilities and provides a variety of play experiences. The new playground increases the available activity area considerably. In addition to conventional play equipment such as swings and slides, the playground also features unique elements including basketball court with adjustable hoop height, accessible elevated decking, and a pair of 50-foot-long zip-lines.
Warning: It does get crowded.
But the main attraction is the Sassafras All Children’s Playground, the creme de la creme of playgrounds.
Taken straight from its description…
The 3.5-acre site includes a playground for children of all abilities and provides a variety of play experiences. The new playground increases the available activity area considerably. In addition to conventional play equipment such as swings and slides, the playground also features unique elements including basketball court with adjustable hoop height, accessible elevated decking, and a pair of 50-foot-long zip-lines.
Warning: It does get crowded.
11. Knightdale Station - Knightdale, NC
Go for the Splash Pad. Stay for the cute barnyard playground.
I love the Splash Pad. It’s conveniently enclosed, so you don’t have to worry about little kids wandering away. There was a shaded spot for me to sit and watch my son play. I brought snacks and we had a great time.
The playground was cute and had some unique features.
We didn’t explore much else of this park, but you don’t really have to.
I love the Splash Pad. It’s conveniently enclosed, so you don’t have to worry about little kids wandering away. There was a shaded spot for me to sit and watch my son play. I brought snacks and we had a great time.
The playground was cute and had some unique features.
We didn’t explore much else of this park, but you don’t really have to.
Honorable mention - White Deer Park - Garner, NC
This is a sleepy little park located across from much busier park, Lake Benson.
But this park has a natural playground and an actual playground plus a nature center and Greenway trails.
I think this park is great if you’re looking for kids to connect with nature.
But this park has a natural playground and an actual playground plus a nature center and Greenway trails.
I think this park is great if you’re looking for kids to connect with nature.
I hope this list inspires you to get out and enjoy all the parks and recreation the Triangle Area has to offer. They are great places for families to explore. Have fun!
Read More - Why I love Raleigh
Read More - Why I love Raleigh
| | Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free parenting checklists. |
Do you feel completely overwhelmed at the prospect of potty training your kid? Especially potty training boys?
I’m sure you heard that potty training boys is more difficult than potty training girls and how to potty train a boy or how to start potty training a boy might be a recurring question you’re asking yourself right now.
Potty training is a rite of passage for parents. It is a frequent search in Google with over 63 million results.
And I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be so daunting as the internet or other people make it out to seem. Sure, at times it isn’t easy and can be, frankly, downright hard, but it doesn’t have to be impossible and such a terrible experience.
Take it from me. I potty trained my son and lived to write about it.
In this blog, you’ll get a 7 month guide on how I started potty training my son at 2 years old. You’ll get information on the best potty training supplies to buy, the process I used to get my son to go to the bathroom, mistakes I made, tips that worked, and information on pooping.
Let’s dive right in.
Lauren Barrett Writes is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.
Month 1
*If you don’t want to take this month by month, you can take it week by week*
Potty training for me started long before I even put my son on the potty. I wanted to go into it with a solid plan of action and research on my side.
So month 1, I simply read a potty training book and mapped out my plan.
For me, I follow The Mom Psychologist on Instagram and really resonate with her parenting style. When I learned that she had written a book, The First-Time Parent’s Guide to Potty Training, I jumped right on it and bought it.
After reading it, I had a good idea of how potty training implementation would go, and I charted my steps for each month.
For you, you might consider other books, courses, or articles. Either way, use Month 1 to have the knowledge of what you’re going to do.
It’s good to do the research, so you can learn if your kids are physiologically and physically ready to use the bathroom.
Potty training for me started long before I even put my son on the potty. I wanted to go into it with a solid plan of action and research on my side.
So month 1, I simply read a potty training book and mapped out my plan.
For me, I follow The Mom Psychologist on Instagram and really resonate with her parenting style. When I learned that she had written a book, The First-Time Parent’s Guide to Potty Training, I jumped right on it and bought it.
After reading it, I had a good idea of how potty training implementation would go, and I charted my steps for each month.
For you, you might consider other books, courses, or articles. Either way, use Month 1 to have the knowledge of what you’re going to do.
It’s good to do the research, so you can learn if your kids are physiologically and physically ready to use the bathroom.
Month 2
This month was all about introducing the potty to my son. I put a kids potty in my son’s room, and I would reference it.
I wouldn’t make him sit on it. I would just talk about it or casually bring it up.
“Oh, look there is a potty. That’s where you pee and poop.”
You do nothing more this month.
I wouldn’t make him sit on it. I would just talk about it or casually bring it up.
“Oh, look there is a potty. That’s where you pee and poop.”
You do nothing more this month.
Month 3
The focus of this month was reading books related to potty training. I went to the library and scoured the shelves for any and all books on potty training and body parts.
We would read the books, talk about going to the bathroom, and continue to point out the potty in his room.
Again, I never forced my son to sit on the potty. I let him take the reins when it came to that.
We would read the books, talk about going to the bathroom, and continue to point out the potty in his room.
Again, I never forced my son to sit on the potty. I let him take the reins when it came to that.
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Month 4
This month, we added in videos of potty training. We watched cartoons, songs, and real life clips on YouTube of potty training.
We continued to talk about potty training when it came up in everyday conversation. Like when I or my husband had to use the bathroom.
Once again, the potty remained in my son’s room, and he always had the invitation to use it if he liked.
We continued to talk about potty training when it came up in everyday conversation. Like when I or my husband had to use the bathroom.
Once again, the potty remained in my son’s room, and he always had the invitation to use it if he liked.
Month 5
We were getting closer to the actual days of potty training, but we still weren’t ready yet. During this month, we role-played and helped my son build his confidence with potty training.
I used his stuffed animals and acted like they had to use the bathroom. I acted out the steps of going to the potty by having them get the potty feeling, go to the bathroom, pull down their pants, and go! I used water and raisins to act as pee and poop.
We did lots of role-playing this month to prepare my son for his turn to use the bathroom.
I used his stuffed animals and acted like they had to use the bathroom. I acted out the steps of going to the potty by having them get the potty feeling, go to the bathroom, pull down their pants, and go! I used water and raisins to act as pee and poop.
We did lots of role-playing this month to prepare my son for his turn to use the bathroom.
Month 6
This month was the month that we prepared for the Big Day.
Some key points that we talked about this month:
Some key points that we talked about this month:
- Only you know when you have to use the bathroom.
- How to recognize the feeling of having to go.
- What the Big Day would be like and what we would do.
- Signs associated with potty training to help make the process easier.
Month 7
During this month you want to gather your supplies, which I will list below, and pick three days where you and your partner/spouse do not have a lot of obligations and one of you, if not both, can stay at home for most of the day.
Now, you can feel confident that your son is ready to learn to use the potty!
Now, you can feel confident that your son is ready to learn to use the potty!
Supplies
Before the Big 3 Days gather your supplies…
- Stand alone mini potty
- Seat reducer
- Flushable wipes
- Step stool
- Waterproof mat for the carpet
- Portable potty for car rides
- Easy to remove clothes
- Reward chart
- Reward treat
- Food coloring
- Rubber ducky
- Lots of liquids and foods high in fiber
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The Big Three Days
The day has arrived and your child (and you) might be feeling a ton of emotions. That’s okay!
Validate their feelings and then get started.
Validate their feelings and then get started.
Day 1
On this day, your child goes completely naked from the waist down and you’re not going to leave the house.
Soooo….I suggest you set up some premade activities or be okay with some extra screen time because potty training can make for an endless day.
That’s also why it is nice to have a partner involved in this process today, so the two of you can take turns taking breaks because, trust me, you’re going to need them.
The rules of this day are simple:
Soooo….I suggest you set up some premade activities or be okay with some extra screen time because potty training can make for an endless day.
That’s also why it is nice to have a partner involved in this process today, so the two of you can take turns taking breaks because, trust me, you’re going to need them.
The rules of this day are simple:
- Instruct your child that when they get the “potty feeling” to go on the potty. Make sure the potty is easily accessible.
- When your son goes on the potty, give him a treat right away.
- If they start going on the floor, try to catch them midway and carry them over to the potty. If they finish their peering on the potty, give them a treat right away.
- If they go on the floor, do not yell or shame. Tell them that it’s okay but remind them that the peeing and pooping are for the potty.
- Load them up with liquids and fruits and fiber to give them plenty of opportunities to use the potty.
- Use the gossiping strategy at the end of the day.
- *Extra* Give them a certificate for completing Day 1.
Day 2
This day is exactly the same as Day 1, but you’ll do a 15-20 minute excursion outside. Maybe to the playground or to take a walk around the block.
Day 3
Day 3 is the same as Day 2, but you’re going to add in a longer outside excursion AND you are going to put underwear and loose fitting pants on your boy.
Pro Tips for Potty Training
Here are my best tips for potty training boys (and girls):
1. Put food coloring in the potty
Show your son that you’re putting food coloring in the potty and use this script…
“Look, I put a red drop in the potty. Turn your pee red! Look, your pee is red! What color do you want to make your pee next time?”
2. The Diaper Steps for Peeing and Pooping
If you have kids who scream for their diapers (mine did for pooping), try the diaper steps.
Do each step for about 3-7 days before removing onto the next step. Always, talk to them about the next step before doing it.
“Ohh! Tomorrow, we’re going to cut a hole in your diaper. You’ll pee through the hole in your diaper. So fun! How do you feel about that?”
3. The Rubber Ducky Trick
Okay, this is kind of gross, but it worked. We would put a plastic rubber ducky in the potty and tell my son to make him float in the “water.”
Giving kids a goal that they feel proud of makes them feel confident to continue.
4. Reward Charts
I’ll be honest, reward charts can be tiring because you have to be super consistent, but they can work.
I actually used them later on in the potty training process. My son had mastered the art of going to the potty, but he was still having accidents here and there and wasn’t pooping consistently on the potty.
So, what I did was write down the steps I wanted him to accomplish:
For each one he did, he got a star and so many stars equaled a prize/treat/reward that we determined together.
You can cater this to your experience however you want.
Maybe for you, your son gets a star on his chart (or a sticker or a checkmark on his hand) every time he just pees on the potty. So many stars at the end of the day equals a prize.
Increase the criteria as your child improves → He has to get more stars per day or a prize comes every other day instead of everyday.
Finally, gradually reduce how often you give a reward until you aren’t handing them out anymore.
5. On and Off
This was kind of a mistake we made. I highly suggest the potty be an on and off thing instead of a lingering on kind of thing.
I wouldn’t place your child on the potty and instruct him to sit there until he goes. We really want our kids to recognize when they have to go and then go and be done with it.
That’s why I recommend no screens or books or games or sitting there holding their hands.
Forcing them to go or sit on the potty for too long will create a negative association with the potty and generally lead to more resistance.
6. No more diapers or pull-ups
Once your kids are developmentally ready to use the potty, do not go back to diapers, pull-ups or anything that looks or feels like a diaper except for nighttime and naps.
Kids need consistency and going back to diapers or pull-ups will be confusing.
Stick to underwear even if the accidents are annoying in the short term. It will be better in the long run.
Here are some thicker underwear that cause less of a mess.
. 7. Character Underwear
Buy your child his favorite character underwear - Paw Patrol, Batman, Mickey Mouse - and instruct him not to get Chase (insert character here) wet. “Help keep them dry.”
1. Put food coloring in the potty
Show your son that you’re putting food coloring in the potty and use this script…
“Look, I put a red drop in the potty. Turn your pee red! Look, your pee is red! What color do you want to make your pee next time?”
2. The Diaper Steps for Peeing and Pooping
If you have kids who scream for their diapers (mine did for pooping), try the diaper steps.
- Step 1: They can wear their diapers, but they have to be in the bathroom.
- Step 2: They can wear their diapers, but they have to sit on the potty.
- Step 3: They can wear their diapers, but there is a hole in the diaper.
- Step 4: No diaper!
Do each step for about 3-7 days before removing onto the next step. Always, talk to them about the next step before doing it.
“Ohh! Tomorrow, we’re going to cut a hole in your diaper. You’ll pee through the hole in your diaper. So fun! How do you feel about that?”
3. The Rubber Ducky Trick
Okay, this is kind of gross, but it worked. We would put a plastic rubber ducky in the potty and tell my son to make him float in the “water.”
Giving kids a goal that they feel proud of makes them feel confident to continue.
4. Reward Charts
I’ll be honest, reward charts can be tiring because you have to be super consistent, but they can work.
I actually used them later on in the potty training process. My son had mastered the art of going to the potty, but he was still having accidents here and there and wasn’t pooping consistently on the potty.
So, what I did was write down the steps I wanted him to accomplish:
- Pull down your pants on his own.
- Pee.
- Pull up pants on his own.
- Flush.
- Wash Hands.
- Poop in the potty.
For each one he did, he got a star and so many stars equaled a prize/treat/reward that we determined together.
You can cater this to your experience however you want.
Maybe for you, your son gets a star on his chart (or a sticker or a checkmark on his hand) every time he just pees on the potty. So many stars at the end of the day equals a prize.
Increase the criteria as your child improves → He has to get more stars per day or a prize comes every other day instead of everyday.
Finally, gradually reduce how often you give a reward until you aren’t handing them out anymore.
5. On and Off
This was kind of a mistake we made. I highly suggest the potty be an on and off thing instead of a lingering on kind of thing.
I wouldn’t place your child on the potty and instruct him to sit there until he goes. We really want our kids to recognize when they have to go and then go and be done with it.
That’s why I recommend no screens or books or games or sitting there holding their hands.
Forcing them to go or sit on the potty for too long will create a negative association with the potty and generally lead to more resistance.
6. No more diapers or pull-ups
Once your kids are developmentally ready to use the potty, do not go back to diapers, pull-ups or anything that looks or feels like a diaper except for nighttime and naps.
Kids need consistency and going back to diapers or pull-ups will be confusing.
Stick to underwear even if the accidents are annoying in the short term. It will be better in the long run.
Here are some thicker underwear that cause less of a mess.
. 7. Character Underwear
Buy your child his favorite character underwear - Paw Patrol, Batman, Mickey Mouse - and instruct him not to get Chase (insert character here) wet. “Help keep them dry.”
Mistakes I Made With Potty Training
Everyone makes mistakes. Here are mine…
My son was very scared to poop. He would hold it so badly that he became very constipated. At first, we tried to force him to go which was pretty traumatizing for him and made his constipation worse. We wouldn’t do this again. Instead we would do the Diaper Steps in the first place, which ended up working for us later on.
The timing was slightly off, especially with getting him to poop. I started the Big 3 Days in August since I am a teacher and off for the summer.
However, shortly after those Big 3 Days, I went back to work, we sold our house, moved into our son’s grandparents’ house, and then 2 months later moved into our new house.
The timing will never be perfect, but he had to undergo a lot of transitions that can make potty training difficult.
Try to avoid potty training when it closely coincides with a big transition like a new baby or moving.
My son was very scared to poop. He would hold it so badly that he became very constipated. At first, we tried to force him to go which was pretty traumatizing for him and made his constipation worse. We wouldn’t do this again. Instead we would do the Diaper Steps in the first place, which ended up working for us later on.
The timing was slightly off, especially with getting him to poop. I started the Big 3 Days in August since I am a teacher and off for the summer.
However, shortly after those Big 3 Days, I went back to work, we sold our house, moved into our son’s grandparents’ house, and then 2 months later moved into our new house.
The timing will never be perfect, but he had to undergo a lot of transitions that can make potty training difficult.
Try to avoid potty training when it closely coincides with a big transition like a new baby or moving.
Success!
Hopefully with this guide and tips, you’re successfully on your way to potty training. Remember your son will continue to have accidents. They won’t be perfect.
They might get caught up in playing and forget to go or go through some regressions.
Be gentle with them.
If you are still having extreme problems, check in with your doctor to see if they are developmentally ready.
But other than that, praise them and yourself for all your hard efforts.
And check out my course Now What? for strategies for some of life’s other difficult parenting moments.
They might get caught up in playing and forget to go or go through some regressions.
Be gentle with them.
If you are still having extreme problems, check in with your doctor to see if they are developmentally ready.
But other than that, praise them and yourself for all your hard efforts.
And check out my course Now What? for strategies for some of life’s other difficult parenting moments.
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Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free parenting checklists.
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It’s no surprise that society likes to joke about the tired mom.
TV shows play homage to her by having her mistakenly leave the house in her pajamas, robe, and slippers. Mom buns is now a common phrase. And we’ve all seen memes or pictures of a mom with huge bags under her eyes as she juggles the laundry, her kids pulling her in different directions, and trying to talk on the phone.
But a tired mom is no laughing matter. Sleep deprivation has serious side effects.
Difficulties with sleep and insomnia can linger far after the newborn phase. The tired mom, so weary from the day, collapses on her bed, and the next thing she knows she is unable to fall asleep. It’s frustrating.
I know because I’ve been there. I struggled with insomnia and sleep anxiety for many months. The rest of my house lay asleep peacefully while I tossed and turned with sheer panic.
It’s awful, and if you’re going through this, you’re not alone, and I have some tips for you.
*Update: I wrote this blog before I got real help for my insomnia. Read here for more accurate help when it comes to insomnia.
*DISCLAIMER: The information and advice in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical, mental health, legal, or other professions. Call your medical or mental health professional, or 911, for all emergencies. Lauren Barrett is not liable for any advice or information provided in this blog.
TV shows play homage to her by having her mistakenly leave the house in her pajamas, robe, and slippers. Mom buns is now a common phrase. And we’ve all seen memes or pictures of a mom with huge bags under her eyes as she juggles the laundry, her kids pulling her in different directions, and trying to talk on the phone.
But a tired mom is no laughing matter. Sleep deprivation has serious side effects.
Difficulties with sleep and insomnia can linger far after the newborn phase. The tired mom, so weary from the day, collapses on her bed, and the next thing she knows she is unable to fall asleep. It’s frustrating.
I know because I’ve been there. I struggled with insomnia and sleep anxiety for many months. The rest of my house lay asleep peacefully while I tossed and turned with sheer panic.
It’s awful, and if you’re going through this, you’re not alone, and I have some tips for you.
*Update: I wrote this blog before I got real help for my insomnia. Read here for more accurate help when it comes to insomnia.
*DISCLAIMER: The information and advice in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical, mental health, legal, or other professions. Call your medical or mental health professional, or 911, for all emergencies. Lauren Barrett is not liable for any advice or information provided in this blog.
#1 Don’t Eat After 8PM.
When we put our head down on the pillow, we don’t want to have to worry about anything other than sleeping. Eating after 8PM can lead to digestive issues that can disrupt our sleeping.
When I was having trouble with sleep, I didn’t want any external factors to get in the way, so I eliminated eating after 8PM.
When I was having trouble with sleep, I didn’t want any external factors to get in the way, so I eliminated eating after 8PM.
#2 Limit Drinking
Despite the classic stereotypes of tired moms “needing” wine to unwind before bed, I learned that drinking alcohol up to four hours before bed can mess with one’s sleep.
If I did happen to drink, I would limit myself to one glass. Tired moms, there are plenty of other ways to unwind before bed. Don’t let society fool you into thinking that drinking is one of them.
The best thing for an overwhelmed, stressed out mom is sleep. Let’s not jeopardize it by drinking.
If I did happen to drink, I would limit myself to one glass. Tired moms, there are plenty of other ways to unwind before bed. Don’t let society fool you into thinking that drinking is one of them.
The best thing for an overwhelmed, stressed out mom is sleep. Let’s not jeopardize it by drinking.
#3 Set the Mood
Sleep hygiene is so important for adults and kids too. Just like it’s hard for me to go to sleep right after exercising or being on my phone for a while, I can’t be expected to go to bed after watching a stimulating TV show or vigorously texting.
That’s why it is so important to set the mood in order to eliminate bedtime struggles.
Setting the mood can look like this:
By setting the mood, we are preparing ourselves for sleep and getting ourselves to feel tired.
Even if I find myself getting home late or doing something stimulating later in the evening than normal, I have to take at least a half hour to an hour to unwind out of bed and bedroom.
Tired moms need that time to be by themselves and have some peace and quiet after the chaos and noise of the day.
That’s why it is so important to set the mood in order to eliminate bedtime struggles.
Setting the mood can look like this:
- Dimming all the lights at least a half hour before bed.
- Shutting off the TV right before bedtime.
- Lowering the temperature.
- Switching on a calming music from the sound machine.
- Speaking in softer, hushed voices.
- Lowering the volume on all sounds.
- Take a warm shower.
By setting the mood, we are preparing ourselves for sleep and getting ourselves to feel tired.
Even if I find myself getting home late or doing something stimulating later in the evening than normal, I have to take at least a half hour to an hour to unwind out of bed and bedroom.
Tired moms need that time to be by themselves and have some peace and quiet after the chaos and noise of the day.
#4 Avoid Screens after 9PM
There is a big reason why turning off screens after 9PM is the first thing on my list for my Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge. Seeing as sleep is one of, if not the, most important things we can do for our bodies, we need to make sure our bodies are ready for sleep when we go to lie down.
Screens, especially the blue light from our phones and I-pads, can mess with proper sleep. I find that after scrolling social media or going down a rabbit hole on Wikipedia or texting away with a friend, I have a harder time going to sleep.
That is why I turn on Do Not Disturb for 9:00 PM-6:00 AM. I like to have at least an hour away from my phone before bed.
Does this mean that I never check my phone? No. I just don’t engage in any activity that has me staring at it for too long.
As for TV screens, I like to turn off the TV about a half hour before I go to sleep.
Screens, especially the blue light from our phones and I-pads, can mess with proper sleep. I find that after scrolling social media or going down a rabbit hole on Wikipedia or texting away with a friend, I have a harder time going to sleep.
That is why I turn on Do Not Disturb for 9:00 PM-6:00 AM. I like to have at least an hour away from my phone before bed.
Does this mean that I never check my phone? No. I just don’t engage in any activity that has me staring at it for too long.
As for TV screens, I like to turn off the TV about a half hour before I go to sleep.
#5 Take Melatonin
I think the research on melatonin can be a little vague at times, but I still like to take 1-2 before bed even if only to serve as a placebo effect.
I chew these about a half hour before bed and let them work their magic.
I chew these about a half hour before bed and let them work their magic.
#6 The Bedroom is for Sleeping
I’ve started to spend less time in my bedroom and my bed is only for sleeping and well…
Research has shown that the more time spent in our bedtime the more sleep difficulties we’ll have later in the night.
So Moms, get out of your bedrooms. There is no wonder that houses are starting to put more real estate value on outdoor spaces instead of bedrooms.
After moving into our new house, we even have said that the bedroom will be the last room in the house we make over simply because we hardly spend time there.
Research has shown that the more time spent in our bedtime the more sleep difficulties we’ll have later in the night.
So Moms, get out of your bedrooms. There is no wonder that houses are starting to put more real estate value on outdoor spaces instead of bedrooms.
After moving into our new house, we even have said that the bedroom will be the last room in the house we make over simply because we hardly spend time there.
#7 Find the Good and Take Deep Breaths
A large part surrounding my difficulties sleeping was because I was so anxious about not sleeping. I would be tired, but as soon as I got into bed, I would start worrying and wondering if I would be able to sleep. The more I worried and wondered, the more I couldn’t sleep. It was a vicious cycle.
For that reason, I had to develop some mindful thinking and meditative practice for bed. For me, that was slowing down my breathing and taking a few deep breaths while I used a strategy called Finding the Good.
I would go through my day and pick out all the good things that happened. I would also ruminate on the good things of the future. Our minds have been trained to quickly go to all that can go wrong and all the negatives that happened that we have to really work to find the good.
For that reason, I had to develop some mindful thinking and meditative practice for bed. For me, that was slowing down my breathing and taking a few deep breaths while I used a strategy called Finding the Good.
I would go through my day and pick out all the good things that happened. I would also ruminate on the good things of the future. Our minds have been trained to quickly go to all that can go wrong and all the negatives that happened that we have to really work to find the good.
#8 Take Up Reading or Another Hobby Before Bed
Instead of being on screens before bed, which we know can disrupt sleep, Moms should find some hobby they could do before bed that helps take their minds off any anxiety they have.
Dooms scrolling on phones is a thing that unfortunately, I myself along with other moms have gotten caught up in.
Instead I have started reading before bed.
Other hobbies can be: scrapbooking, writing, knitting, sewing, yoga, and meditating.
Dooms scrolling on phones is a thing that unfortunately, I myself along with other moms have gotten caught up in.
Instead I have started reading before bed.
Other hobbies can be: scrapbooking, writing, knitting, sewing, yoga, and meditating.
#9 Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule
There is no such thing as “catching up on sleep”. Because of that, I try to wake up and go to bed roughly at the same time every night of the week, including weekends.
Your body will become used to this schedule and, in turn, be more likely to have good quality sleep.
I know, as a mom, that after the kids go to bed we only have very little precious time to a.) straighten up the house; b.) spend time with our spouse; and c.) spend time alone in “me time.” Because we want to do all that, we might fight to stay awake. This is called Revenge Bedtime Procrastination and women and college students are most affected by it.
Experts don’t recommend that moms do this because not getting enough sleep for the next day will leave moms trapped in a stressed out cycle.
Instead go to bed at consistent times and follow my bedtime tips to help the nighttime routine go smoother without so much stalling from your kids and divide those household duties with your spouse by using Fair Play And finally, don’t be afraid to do chores and cleaning while your kids are awake and give them responsibilities of chores to do.
Your body will become used to this schedule and, in turn, be more likely to have good quality sleep.
I know, as a mom, that after the kids go to bed we only have very little precious time to a.) straighten up the house; b.) spend time with our spouse; and c.) spend time alone in “me time.” Because we want to do all that, we might fight to stay awake. This is called Revenge Bedtime Procrastination and women and college students are most affected by it.
Experts don’t recommend that moms do this because not getting enough sleep for the next day will leave moms trapped in a stressed out cycle.
Instead go to bed at consistent times and follow my bedtime tips to help the nighttime routine go smoother without so much stalling from your kids and divide those household duties with your spouse by using Fair Play And finally, don’t be afraid to do chores and cleaning while your kids are awake and give them responsibilities of chores to do.
#10 Ask Your Doctor for a Pill
If you are like me, my insomnia got so bad that I had to ask my doctor for a pill. I hadn’t slept in 48 hours (turns out I was being overmedicated for my autoimmune disease - but that is a different story).
The pill worked wonders. I ended up gradually weaning myself off the pills, (That should be the purpose of most pills that alter your mind chemically) [LINK] but just knowing that I had the pills just in case helped me fall asleep faster and better.
Sometimes we need that kickstart to help us sleep. And I knew that once I started getting a few decent nights of sleep, my overall physical and mental health would improve drastically. And it did.
But have a plan to gradually get yourself off the pill by using other holistic sleeping strategies.
The pill worked wonders. I ended up gradually weaning myself off the pills, (That should be the purpose of most pills that alter your mind chemically) [LINK] but just knowing that I had the pills just in case helped me fall asleep faster and better.
Sometimes we need that kickstart to help us sleep. And I knew that once I started getting a few decent nights of sleep, my overall physical and mental health would improve drastically. And it did.
But have a plan to gradually get yourself off the pill by using other holistic sleeping strategies.
Whether you’re in the throes of sleep deprivations or just a tired mom who could use a little more sleep, I hope these tips help.
I really have empathy for people who are having trouble sleeping, and I say a prayer each night for all of you.
Allowing yourself to get enough sleep is one of the most selfless acts of love you can do for yourself and the people around you. When I get enough sleep, I’m a better mom, wife, teacher, and overall person.
Happy sleeping! Hope this post wasn’t a snooze fest.
I really have empathy for people who are having trouble sleeping, and I say a prayer each night for all of you.
Allowing yourself to get enough sleep is one of the most selfless acts of love you can do for yourself and the people around you. When I get enough sleep, I’m a better mom, wife, teacher, and overall person.
Happy sleeping! Hope this post wasn’t a snooze fest.
| | Lauren Barrett is a multi-passionate mom working to help all parents become their best selves and build positive relationships with their kids through mindful parenting. She has a degree in deaf education and a Master’s in Reading Education. She is a high school teacher of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing by day, a cross country coach by the afternoon, a writer/author by her son's nap times, and a full time mom to an amazing toddler. Lauren is a 2x author of the Add One-A-Day 30 Day Challenge and children's book, Henry's Hiccups, a blogger at Lauren Barrett Writes, and has been published on sites like A Fine Parent, Pregnant Chicken, Pop Sugar, Her View From Home, and Scary Mommy. She loves her faith, running, visiting MLB stadiums with her husband, chocolate, scrapbooking, pretending she would actually do well on the Amazing Race, re-watching The Office, listening to Bobby Bones, and helping out all moms. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, James, and son, Henry. Follow her on Instagram and get her free parenting checklists. |
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