Your child hops off the school bus, you walk him inside, and he immediately races in front of the TV to play video games. It may be easier at times to let him enjoy his PlayStation so you can get other tasks done, but the monumental long-term benefits of reading to and with your child are critical.  As National Reading Day approaches on March 3rd, we are reminded about the value of reading in developing your child’s creativity and intelligence.  At the same time, reading with your children daily is a major way to build a strong connection with them. All parents can benefit from learning about why reading is integral for a child. Here is why replacing his remote control with a book can truly change your child’s life.

Understanding of language. Research has shown that the most important thing a parent can do to help their child learn and understand language is to read to them. Have them repeat certain words and phrases back as you read aloud. It helps them gain a stronger grasp of pronunciation, rhythm of speech, and builds self-confidence in their speaking voice.

Good quality one-on-one time with your child. When you read to or with your child, you are in close proximity building a bond and strengthening the friendship and love between the two of you. You touch your child more, give your child more affection, share more nonverbal communication, and you are creating memories that will stay with them into adulthood.

It opens the lines of communication. Whether it simply starts a conversation with a child that is difficult to relate to, or it allows you to tackle some of the tougher topics involved in the stages of growing up, reading together opens those lines and gets the conversation flowing. When you read together, you become a safe person to ask questions to and get advice from, and your child will look to you as a leader and example to follow.

It keeps you in touch with your children. When your kids are young, you will choose the books, but as they grow old enough, let them decide what you read to them. The stories may be simple and you may have read them a million times, but letting your child chose will allow you to stay tuned into subjects that they like, and not to mention what they are reading. You will have more to relate to and a better idea of their interests and what is going on in their life. It can help you connect with them on a different level as you learn more about what inspires them as an individual.

Reading aloud helps develop a child’s imagination. With no television to look at, and no words to struggle through, your children have nothing to do but listen and let their imagination flow. Having creativity makes for a moldable adult whom can fit in all social situations and excel in any industry he or she chooses a career in.

They will know you care. Yes, your child will learn to read earlier, have a stronger vocabulary and become a better writer if they read more, but they will also know that they are loved and cared for by an attentive parent. Their self-esteem and confidence will grow, you will have a stronger bond with them, and they will feel safe and loved. All of these outcomes will shape them to be strong and capable adults with positive outlooks and bright futures.

Happy Reading!

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddy & Co., delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the Daddy & Co. blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post The Importance of Reading With Your Kids appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

There’s nothing better than smiling and laughing with the family, but it’s sometimes easier said than done. With seven kids of my own, I know it can be difficult to ensure everyone has fun everyday, so I’ve created a list of tips that’ll ensure families can have more fun together!

Laugh and Sing: Families can have more fun together by laughing and singing.  When it starts to get out of hand in the kitchen or the car, I often start making up words to tunes the kids are familiar with, all of sudden they start laughing and we get a change of pace. They find it very funny when I sing the wrong words to popular songs. Any time you can do something goofy to make your family laugh or smile – I say go for it! Don’t take yourself too seriously, and take advantage of every opportunity to smile.

Play More: We have more fun together as a family when my wife and I actively participate in playtime with the kids. We get down on the floor, ride bikes together, climb up the slide and go back down, etc.  If you want to have more fun as a family, participate and become part of the show, not just a parent watching on the sidelines. Your kids will love to see that you’re not afraid to get dirty or act silly, and you’ll all have lots of fun playing together.

Be Prepared: Families can have more fun by being prepared for anything and everything. Pack your diaper bag (or Daddy Diaper Pack) with essentials and extras – just in case. Determine how many diapers you’ll need for a specific number of hours then add two more.  Download the movie on the iPad that you can turn on when your child is approaching meltdown mode. Being prepared will allow families to have more fun together because there will be less to complain about (i.e., nobody will be chilly if you stay out after the sun goes down because you packed jackets in advance) and parents will have less to worry about.

Go with the Flow: Don’t get stressed when plans change – go with the flow and stay flexible. The journey through parenthood can be bumpy, and parents have to learn to accept sudden changes and make the most of them. If you get stressed about a change in plans, chances are your children will follow suit. If you remain calm and are determined to have fun with your family, however, they’ll likely act in the same manner.

I know it’s not always easy to be a parent, so take it day by day, remain calm, smile more and play a lot – you can do it!

Happy parenting!

Sincerely,

Daddy Nickell

The post Families Can Have More Fun appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

1. Get a Book: There are plenty of waterproof books that are bath time friendly. Books can help solidify a bath time routine while remaining fun and unique – who doesn’t love a floating, waterproof book? I suggest Scrubba Dub Dub with Daddy Duck; this sweet book is an easy read and the illustrations will bring the singsong-like words to life. http://www.daddyscrubs.com/all-products/bookstore/children-s-books/scrubba-dub-dub-with-daddy-duck-bath-book.html

2. Make Bath Paint: Bath paint can easily be made with shaving cream and food coloring yet is such a fun activity. Kids will love “painting” the walls of the tub with the shaving cream paint, and it cleans up easily, too. Learn more about shaving cream paint at The Imagination Tree Blog: http://theimaginationtree.com/2012/02/shaving-cream-bath-paint.html

3. Choose Cups, Spoons and Strainers: Many kitchen and cooking utensils can make bathtime extra fun. Grab items such as: spoons, plastic measuring cups, a strainer, a ladle, new sponges and anything else you think might be fun and let your child play and learn as they fill the items up with water and poor the water out again and again.

4. It’s All About the Bubbles: Who doesn’t love a good bubble bath? Pick up some extra sudsy kid-friendly bubble bath of your choosing and add some bubbles to your child’s next bath. Bubbles allow for plenty of fun, and with so many soothing scents to choose from they may even help your child wind down for the evening.

There are lots of easy ways to make bath time even more fun for kids!

Happy parenting!

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents. Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddy & Co., delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the Daddy & Co. blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Easy Ways to Make Bathtime Fun appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

When my wife Katy and I got married, building a life that was safe and healthy to raise a family was of the utmost important to us.  Living green has been a lifelong practice that really flourished as our family grew.  Our number one priority has been to raise a happy family and create a healthy environment for us, as well as, our surrounding community of Manhattan Beach, CA.

We are often asked, “What can I do to live a green lifestyle?”  The answer is simple, if everyone would make small changes in their everyday lives, it could make a significant impact on the strain for resources in their local communities.  Katy and I have compiled a list of some simple ways we all can contribute to making a smaller footprint.

1.  Reduce Water Consumption– There are several ways families can reduce their water consumption.

• Take showers instead of baths. Newer higher efficiency showerheads provide good water pressure and use less water than filling a bath tub.
• Shorten Shower time. Less time in the shower saves up to 5 gallons of water per minute you cut from shower time.
• Use high efficiency toilets. Over the past several years manufacturers have worked to make toilets more water efficient and bacteria-resistant which makes them easier to clean.
• Xeriscape – Be thoughtful in your landscaping choices. Utilize plants and grasses that are drought tolerant. Reduce water consumption and garden maintenance simultaneously.
• Plant trees for shade. Not only will the shade help reduce cooling costs, it will also increase property values when the trees mature.

2.  Use Natural Cleaning Products– Natural cleaning products are readily available at most super markets. They clean, disinfect and deodorize the same way conventional cleaning products do without harmful chemicals. Read labels before you purchase, natural ingredients include baking soda, borax, cornstarch, lemon juice, mineral oil, vinegar and washing soda. If you choose to make your own, add essential oils for fragrance.

3.  Maximize Solar Power– Consider installing solar panels to heat and cool your home. Solar panels will reduce energy levels and benefit your entire community by reducing energy consumption at the local power plant.

4.  Preserve Air Quality– Use eco-friendly paints the next time you update a room in your house. Eco-friendly paints have very low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and come in a wide array of colors.

5.  Reduce Utility Consumption– Upgrade to a high quality air filtering system. By providing better air ventilation and exhaust in your home you will have cleaner air to breathe while reducing strain your community’s electric and gas consumption.

6.  Buy Natural and Organic Products– When making purchases for furniture and bedding choose organic products made from sustainable materials like unbleached wool, bamboo, or natural plant fibers. Using eco-friendly furniture is an excellent way to detox your home. Organic mattresses made from wool or natural latex and have been shown to reduce allergens in the air.

7.  Use Re-usable Containers– Rather than using foil or plastic wrap; try using re-usable storage containers for leftovers or lunches. Consider taking a coffee mug to work instead of using Styrofoam cups. Not only will you save money, you will also reduce items that sit in a landfill for years decomposing.

8.  Eat Clean– More processing equals less nutrient density in foods. Focus on buying fresh organic fruits and vegetables. Reduce the amount of processed foods in your diet. Eating clean will improve your health and cut down on landfill items by cutting out cans, glass and plastics in your trash.

9.  Conduct an Energy Audit– Discover where you have leaks and plug them up. Inefficient windows and doors can cost a lot in utility bills in the winter. If you still feel drafts, hire a professional auditor through the Department of Energy’s Energy Saver site. They can make excellent recommendations to make your home weather tight.

10.  Recycle– Most major cities offer free recycling as part of weekly trash removal programs. Take advantage of the service and sort through glass, plastic, aluminum and paper. Quarterly go through closets and drawers and find clothes the kids have outgrown or that you simply don’t wear anymore and donate to a thrift store or homeless shelter. Items that are gently used can benefit others in your community.

Living a green lifestyle is a conscious choice we made for our family, and we can attest to the fact that the benefits far outweigh the planning it takes.  We would like to encourage you to join us in adopting a green lifestyle for your family.  You will be amazed at the difference it will make in your lives and in your local community.

Good luck and happy parenting!

Daddy Nickell

The Nickells’ practice what they preach as they are in the process of building an eco- friendly home that is on track to receive Platinum LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddy & Co., delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the Daddy & Co. blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post 10 Tips for Greener Living appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Between smart phones and computers people aren’t required to interact face-to-face all the time anymore. And in my opinion, you need the face-to-face interactions to develop empathy for others and to, in turn, build and develop proper manners and etiquette.

We should be working with our children to instill these values, encouraging them to spend less time on their computers, smart phones and gaming devices and to spend more time engaging with one another and learning how to kindly treat people within our society – peers and elders alike.  Each and every generation is raised with a differing set of values. I was raised in the 60’s and 70’s, and my dad taught me these basic manners and etiquette. I still think about these 10 ideals today, and I have, in turn, tried hard to teach them to my own children.

1. Call the neighbors “Mr. and Mrs.”: This etiquette stretches beyond the neighborhood and applies to any and every adult encountered. It’s about respect, and I believe in teaching my children to respect their elders.

2. Be chivalrous: Chivalry isn’t dead. We should teach our children to be chivalrous and to conduct themselves with honor and dignity while being courteous to the people around them.

3. Say grace before dinner: I was raised in a Christian home, and my dad always said grace before we ate dinner. The lesson in this is to be appreciative for the things you have.

4. Honesty is the best policy: It may not always be easier to tell the truth, but it’ll always be better in the long run. Our children should know that lying won’t get them anywhere, and that it’s always better to be honest.

5. Say excuse me after sneezing, burping or farting: The human body doesn’t always have the best sense of timing, but a sincere, “excuse me,” will make up for that.

6. Say please and thank you: Sometimes we put please and thank you on the back-burner, so it’s important to remind ourselves to use these polite words all the time – especially when you are trying to set a good example and teach manners and etiquette to your children.

7. Say “sir” and “ma’am” whenever possible: It’s the polite and respectful thing to do. It might feel old-fashioned, but the elders in your child’s life will really appreciate that simple gesture.

8. Be generous to others: When you have enough to share – share! Being generous is a wonderful part of life, and it’s imperative we teach our children to be able to share.

9. Live by your word: Teach the importance of following-through and to live by your word. It’s an essential part of life, and it’s a lesson children can begin to learn at a young age.

10. Treat others the way you’d like to be treated: Of course, the golden rule made the list. It’s as simple as that; the golden rule will teach children to be polite, empathetic and caring.

These 10 basic rules of etiquette need to continue to be taught to our new generations. Getting back to the basics and revisiting the very root of etiquette will ensure we see a new, positive and thoughtful generation in the future.

Happy parenting! 

Sincerely, 

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Etiquette and Raising Children appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

My mom and dad are the force of reconciliation in our family.  I am not saying we squabble, or fight as siblings even after 50 years of life, but my parents keep us together with celebration, tradition and the importance of family. Today they are in their 80’s, and love to have “the family” over to their house for holidays, dinner, and conversation.  Because of this they have instilled an inherent quality in not only my brother and sister, but our spouses, and our kids (nieces and nephews), as well. 

When I was growing up, I remember going to “Family Reunions” in the Midwest, where everyone at the park, or the house was a relative.  I could never believe how many uncles, aunts, and cousins I had.  It seemed like a natural bond of love and caring that was unconditionally given by all.  It felt like a fraternity, or special club that I belonged to simply because I was part of the family.  I saw places where my dad used to play when he was a child, I saw the church my parents were married in and I slept in the basement of my granny’s house in the summer where my mom was raised.

So, why does it take holidays to bring the family together?  There are plenty of movies, and TV shows about the family getting together for holiday celebrations, from the dysfunctional, to the new loves, to the aging and dying.  For me, any of those shows can bring a tear to my eye, and smile to my cheek.

I believe in tradition, and celebration of family.  If it takes a holiday to get it done, then that is OK with me.  I can only thank my mom and dad for bringing us all together, teaching us about the importance of family, and instilling in us the desire to continue these traditions for our families and the generations to follow.

If you are reading this, and you were not raised in a family of tradition, holidays, and celebration, or you missed out for one reason or another, it is never too late to reignite the fire within.  Teach those around you, and start a fresh journey no matter what stage of life you are residing.

Happy Holidays! 

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Holidays are About Celebration, Tradition and Family appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The holidays are a great time to get kids involved with family activities, such as, gift shopping, decorating and helping with a meal. It builds excitement and allows them to be a part of something bigger than just their presents.  As a father to 7, I’ve learned how to incorporate the kids in our holiday festivities over the years. Here are a few ideas to share with your family:

1. Let them make some of the decisions. If you have decorations that don’t have set spots, or are trying to decide between two stockings, let your child make the decision. They will feel invested and excited about their input.

2. Don’t stress about where they put things. You can go back and change it later if you really need to. Give your children general instructions (the breakable ornaments go on top of the tree, the soft ornaments on the bottom) and let them have at it. You can rearrange and spread out the clumps after they are in bed.

3. If you are a list maker, let them make the list on the computer. I guarantee you will have the prettiest list in town. While shopping, give them the list and the pen and let them cross off items as you get them.

4. Let them make some of the easier food: Jello, mashing potatoes, Christmas cookies, and breads. These are all good things that children can do.

5. Have them help set the table. Find an example of proper table setting on your iPad and let your children set the table. They just need a picture to follow.

6. If gift shopping, ask your child for their input. “Do you think grandma would like this?” or “Which doll do you think Janie would like best?”  Having them help select gifts makes them proud, as well.

7. Craft Time! If you are doing things and need them engaged in something else, give them a craft to do to help you. Make a countdown to Christmas paper chain, Thanksgiving “turkey” hands of thankfulness, napkin holders, place cards, holiday cards for grandma and grandpa.

8. Make it fun. Sing songs while you bake, play music while you decorate, dress like each other and grab a special lunch while shopping. If you are having fun and not stressed, your child will have fun as well.

Good luck and Have a Happy Holiday!

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents. Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Tips for Engaging Children in Holiday Planning appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

As a father of seven, I’ve had my fair share of holiday shopping with kids.  It’s never an easy thing, but during the holidays it’s a lot more difficult.  This time of year, you need to be extra careful and pay extra close attention.  The stores are busy and you’re likely trying to manage extra baggage such as coats and shopping bags plus the kids.

Here are a few tips for staying safe when holiday shopping with kids and babies:

1. Use a cart or stroller whenever possible. Contained children are the easiest to manage.  A stroller also gives you a place to stash your purchases.

2. Supervise bathroom visits. It’s very easy to get separated or have a stranger approach your child in a busy public bathroom.

3. Select oversized fitting rooms and bring your children inside with you.

5. Malls and parking lots are extra busy and dangerous during the holidays. Be sure to hold your child’s hand in parking lots and watch out for drivers who are not looking for pedestrians.

6. Remind your children not talk to strangers.

7. Make sure your child knows they must not act in an ill-mannered way by knocking things off the shelves or breaking anything. Also discourage them from going under the clothing racks as it’s dangerous and easy to lose them.

8. Wear your baby in a carrier, if possible, as you will be hands-free while knowing your little one is in a safe place.

9. Dress your children up in identical and easily noticeable clothing, such as tie-dye or bright colored t-shirts. In the event that your little one runs off, you will be able to show the security guards exactly what outfit he or she is wearing by referencing your other child’s outfit. 

10. Put a sticker on each child’s shirt listing your name and cell phone number in the event you get separated.  Have an “action plan” in place for what they are supposed to do if you get separated such as going into a store and asking a salesperson for help, finding the courtesy counter, finding a security guard, etc.).

11. Establish these rules in a quiet place ahead of time, so that your child knows what is expected of him once you’re inside the busy stores.

12. Shopping is not a lot of fun for little ones.  If you’re asking for their cooperation and patience, offer up a small reward if they are good such as a hot chocolate afterwards or visiting Santa. 

Good luck & happy parenting!        

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping with Kids appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Peer pressure can start at a young age and often begins simply and seemingly harmless, but it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Parents need to work with their young children to teach them ways in which they can resist peer pressure.

With seven kids of my own, I’ve dealt with my fair share of it and I’ve also discovered several great ways to handle it.

Be Yourself: Children often succumb to peer pressure because they’re afraid to say no or to be themselves. We need to teach children that’s it’s perfectly okay to be different; we all don’t need to fit into one mold. When a child is comfortable in their own skin they’ll be more prepared to resist peer pressure. It’s not easy to teach a child that it’s okay to be different or to go against the grain, and it’s really a lesson that you’ll have to continue to teach as your child grows and encounters new difficulties and life experiences. Make sure your child knows you think the world of them and that you’re proud to be their parent; building them up will instill confidence, which will help them understand that they don’t need to change who they are to “fit in” or “be cool”.

Reflect Often: Another important lesson parents need to teach children is to be reflective and to not make rash or rushed decisions. A reflective child will be less likely to be peer pressured into doing something risky or irresponsible, because they’ll take the time to weigh the pros and cons and seriously think about the best option or decision. Start young by discussing aloud with your child pros and cons of various and everyday activities, so they get into the habit of thinking things through. Instilling a sense of reflection can do wonders when it comes to helping children resist peer pressure.

Set a Good Example: I say it all the time, and I’ll say it again now: your kids are watching and learning from your every move. If you’re peer pressured into doing something you didn’t necessarily want to do they’ll be watching you and learning that it’s okay to succumb to peer pressure. Set a strong example, be a good role model and show your children that saying no in the face of peer pressure is perfectly acceptable.

Communicate: Solid communication between parent and child is extremely important. A relationship rich in communication will allow a parent to better understand their child. Furthermore, a child will likely be more open about any peer pressures they may be facing if they’re given the opportunity to express themselves freely and safely. The parent will then be able to step in and give their child techniques to resist peer pressure.

Teaching ways to resist peer pressure should begin at a young age and continue on through childhood. Start small and don’t give up!

Happy parenting!

Sincerely,

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Teaching Kids to Resist Peer Pressure appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

As a seasoned traveler and dad to 7, I know how stressful it can be to fly with toddlers. Don’t get caught up in the stress this year, follow these tried and true tips for ensuring easy travel with your toddlers this winter and beyond.  

Planning Ahead for Toddlers:

• Buy some books about flying in a plane so that your child will understand the whole concept. You might also buy a toy plane that you can talk about with your toddler. Discuss the people who work on the plane, where you enter the plane, where you sit on a plane, etc. The goal here is to get children used to the idea of flying.
• Get a backpack or special travel bag that is just for the toddler, and beginning a few weeks in advance discuss how the child can help pack their bag.  Talk about what items they’d like to bring with them to play with on the plane.
• Discuss with your child all the steps that come with flying on an airplane, such as: the ride to airport, checking bags, going through TSA, waiting to board, getting on the plane, looking out the window, etc. Then they’ll know what to expect when you arrive at the airport on travel day.

Plan in 15 Minutes: 

Estimate the time and length of the trip from beginning to end and make plans in 15 minute increments.  For instance, if you’re planning for a 5 hour flight you’ll know:

• The first 30 minutes your toddlers will be excited as they will have just boarded the plane; they’ll be looking out the window, watching the activity, seeing other planes, and watching luggage being loaded. Then you have the exciting take off to look forward to, too.
• Once the plane passes through the clouds, the show is over for the child and it’ll be time to start to calculate how to entertain your toddler for the remaining 4.5 hours left in the flight.
• You’ll want about 16 different 15-minute activities with some backups in mind, too, that will keep your toddler entertained throughout a long flight. My suggestions include the following:
• Start with a book – while they are still excited to fly.
• Bring a favorite toy – doll or action figure.
• Play dough is always a good item to have on-hand.
• Scotch tape can actually be quite entertaining.
• Don’t forget to factor in snack time – bring a good assortment.
• You can add 15 minutes for a trip to the bathroom or a diaper change.
• Get out of your seats (if the seatbelt sign is off) and walk around the plane.
• Coloring book and crayons are definite staples.
• Change seats with each other to get a fresh view of the surroundings.
• Talk to the seat neighbors if they’re friendly.
• Bring some toy-cars, or play items that allow for imaginary play.
• Bring some magnetic blocks, or other creative building toys

What to Expect as the Parent:

• You might want your child to nap on the plane, but you need to be prepared because that won’t always happen.   
• Parents should remain calm, and listen to the child’s excitements and fears.
• Make each activity last as long as possible. Take a diaper change, for example, walk slowly and explore on the way there and on the way back.
• Don’t rely on the airplane for a meal. Pack plenty of food for your child.
• Do not even think about yourself; consider yourself lucky if you get to glance at a magazine or close your eyes for a few seconds.
• Try to avoid taking out your computer unless your child is napping.
• Always have a “Def Con 5” item at your fingertips. What I call the Def Con 5 item is a toy you can pull out when your child is reaching melt down mode, and you still have 30 minutes trapped inside a plane.
• I try to keep the iPad hidden as a last resort, and not as a first choice item. I’ve used the iPad as a reward or something to look forward to.

Consider Your Toddler’s Health:

• Upon takeoff and landing, children under 3 have trouble clearing their ear pressure. You can help by ensuring they over-exaggerate yawning, drink lots of water, or chew on some goldfish.
• If you’re able to, I suggest wiping down your airplane area with cleaning cloths. Wipe down the trays, arm rests, front and back of seats, window shades, etc. to protect your child from harmful germs.
• Have your toddler wash his or her hands after going through TSA.
• If the child is under 2, I recommend bringing a car seat that they’re already used to and comfortable in.
• If you are going to bring an iPad make sure you also pack a pair of headphones that are comfortable and easy for the child to use.

The bottom line is the more relaxed and prepared you are, the easier it is for the child to learn to fly.  The more you fly, the more comfortable everyone will become.

Good luck and happy parenting!

Sincerely,

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Tips for Flying with Toddlers appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.