Find me where the wild things are. Your toddler's pearly white are adorable... until they're locked on your arm flesh. Naughty behaviors like biting and hitting can be tough to deal with. Remember that this is a phase, and with some loving firmness from you, your tot will be on his way to a biting free existence. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. For teaching your little one what his teeth are meant for, check out Teeth are Not For Biting by Elizabeth Verdick.
Don't ever lose your sense of wonder. To a child, the most "ordinary" things are magical—an ant walking on the sidewalk, the first snowfall of the season, a bird flying in the sky—and if you think about, it IS all pretty amazing. Take some time to join them as they marvel at these little miracles. And pretty soon, you'll believe in the magic too. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Magnatiles inspire hours of creative play for kids and parents!
Grow through what you go through. If you ever wonder how such a little person can have such big (and loud) feelings, you are not alone. It's so hard, but also so normal. Instead of thinking to yourself "she's giving me a hard time," try "she's having a hard time"—the little switch can help you bring your stress level down a bit. Hang in there, mama. You've got this. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. For the really hard moments, check out Motherly's bundle of Mama Meditations.
My mini me is awesome. Those little eyes are ALWAYS on you ?—1. You are gorgeous, and 2. You are her biggest role model. As your little human watches you be a good human, she is learning so much about how to become an awesome member of society. Pretty powerful stuff, mama. P.S. Try play that requires lots of "pleases" and "thank yous," like a tea party with Green Toys Tea Set.
I'm just winging it. Motherhood, eyeliner, everything. Let's face we it—moms today are under a lot of pressure. Whether inflicted by social media or ourselves, we spend so much time trying to be "perfect." But here's the thing—to your child, you already are. All he wants is your attention and love, and you're already an expert at that. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. I Love You Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt gives us all the feels about all the ways we love our littles.
Let's all go back to bed. You've spent all day taking care of your toddler. It's been fun, but let's be honest—mama needs a break. Perfecting your bedtime routine is so important. It'll help settle your tot in for the rest they need, and help YOU settle into the couch for your necessary Netflix and Chill time. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Couch time is made so much better by comfy leggings. Check out our faves!
Toddler=sunshine mixed with a little hurricane. Anyone else feel like their houseplants are sometimes better listeners than their toddlers? Those moments can be so, so hard. We hear you mama (even if you kiddo doesn't seem to). We promise that you're getting through to them. Just keep on' keepin' on. You've got this. XO, TeamMotherly
“Playing dress up starts at age 5 and never truly ends"—Kate Spade. When it comes to raising independent kids, scientists have learned that it's all about attachment. So go ahead and give them that extra cuddling and doting when they need it. You're setting them up for success, and making your mama soul happy while you're at it. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Speaking of cuddling, wrap you and your toddler up in love and softness in this gorgeous sweater from Ingrid + Isabel.
