Parenting Now Blog

Toddlers, by nature, are sweet and kind, but they don't always have the words or skills to work through their big feelings and emotions. They don't yet have the words to express their feelings or needs in order to get what they want in a socially acceptable way. They have not yet learned to regulate ...

Going shopping can be a fun activity for the entire family, but with toddlers and preschoolers in tow, shopping can have its fair share of challenging moments. But there are ways to make shopping trips a little easier on yourself and more fun for both you and your child. First, it is helpful to plan ...

With the weather warming up, we start to see new insects flying and crawling around. They all have an important part to play in our world around us. Here are some fun crafts to do with your wobbler and toddler that are bug-tastic! Paper Plate Bee Materials Paper plate Yellow and black construction paper Googly ...

Many kids can benefit from participating in daily or weekly chores. It helps you out, it helps care for the home, and some studies even link early childhood chores to later success in adulthood, pointing to strengthened adult relationships and successful careers. The key is knowing what chores are appropriate for your child's age group, ...

With Mother's Day just around the corner, here are some fun craft ideas to make for the moms in your life. Love Handprint Sign Materials White cardstock or canvas Round-tipped paint brush, preferably one with a flat head. Mom's favorite color of paint and white paint. Paper plate Newspaper or wrapping paper Baby wipes Instructions ...

Spring is the perfect time of year to get out into nature. Here are some fun games and crafts you can do with your toddler outside.  Crayon Rubbing and Guessing Game Materials   Crayons with the paper wrapping removed   Lightweight paper or newsprint   Items you can use to make rubbings: leaves, grass, flowers, ...

    April is Child Abuse Prevention Month - a time to raise awareness and make meaningful connections with children and families in our community.  According to the 2020 Lane County Data Card from Our Children Oregon, in 2019, 17.5 children per 1,000 were victims of abuse or neglect. The Oregon Child Abuse Prevalence Study ...

Separation challenges from parents and caregivers can start at an early age in children. It can begin in infancy and last for some time. Some children experience separation anxiety before preschool or kindergarten or when starting a new daycare. In most cases, separation challenges are developmentally appropriate. As a parent, you are their touchstone. Your ...

With Earth Day just around the corner, here are some fun Earth Day-inspired crafts for you and your toddler to enjoy together.  Earth Day Rocks: Materials: Rocks Water-based blue and green paint Paint dish Painter's tape Water (Optional) Clear acrylic spray Instructions: First, you need to find your rocks. You can go on a walk ...

  Interrupting is a very normal stage in child development. Being able to teach your child how to get your attention in a matter that is respectful and age appropriate takes some time. There will be learning from both parents and children during this time. But with practice and patience you can teach your preschooler ...

Life changes significantly when we have children, and it's not uncommon for parents (especially those with newborns and infants) to feel social isolation. Between feedings, swaddling, and diaper changes to the busy toddler years of potty training, tower building, and imaginative play, weeks to months can fly by without us parents interacting with another adult. ...

Parenting Now has named United Way of Lane County's Noreen J. Dunnells as its 2023 Minalee Saks Champion of Children. Noreen will be honored at Parenting Now's A Night of Hope Auction & Gala on March 3. This honor is given to community members who go above and beyond to enrich the lives of children ...