This family’s sweet dog is going viral on TikTok for lending her paws to help take care of newborn twins
Most parents probably wish they had an extra pair of hands to help out when taking care of a newborn—let alone newborn twins!—but this lucky family ended up with an extra set of paws. A new dad is going viral on TikTok for documenting how his dog, Lucy, has become a “guardian angel” helping take care of his newborn twin daughters.
In one video, Josh Rheaume, who goes by @uhohtwins on TikTok, can be seen changing one of the twins and getting her dressed—while Lucy stands by and waits for her chance to help. It comes when Rheaume needs items that are out of reach. Every time he needs something—a diaper, a pair of socks—he asks Lucy to get it for him, and she does.
Another video shows Rheaume and Lucy taking advantage of some sweet, sweet time when the twins are napping—and finally getting some chores done. Lucy moves around the house to pick up laundry and place it in a basket, then helps load it into the washer and dryer.
“We learned pretty quickly that what we had to do was include her in as much as we could,” Rheaume told Today.com about helping Lucy adjust to her new life as a big sister. “With all the tricks that I had trained Lucy over the years, we figured that we could put them into action.”
Teaching Lucy to fetch items started out as a party trick, when Rheaume would have his four-legged companion grab beers for himself and his friends.
He added, “The thing about Lucy (is) she has very good item recognition and word association. (It’s) something that’s kind of imprinted in her brain.”
Now that Lucy is one of the most famous dogs on the internet, Rheaume said that anyone who wants to train their dog like Lucy should use “patience and positive reinforcement.”
“A bond is really important, being close to your dog first and foremost. They want to do well for us,” he said. “Give them the patience they need and, you know, reinforcing that positivity once they’re able to achieve what you want them to achieve.”
Whether you’re wanting your pet to show off party tricks or just to listen to you sometimes, training is an important part of every pet owner’s journey! While you may be able to do some training at home, your veterinarian or local dog trainer can offer up personalized tips for your pet. To get advice on everything from sit and stay to housebreaking, we’ve teamed up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition and veterinarian Dr. Kristin Wuellner. Keep reading to see Dr. Wuellner’s answers to our user-submitted questions:
Every family’s pet journey looks a little different, but one thing remains the same: We all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy. Hill’s provides science-backed nutrition for every age, size and need and makes it easier to support your pet’s needs. See how Hill’s science-backed nutrition can give your best friend their best life.
There are so many housebreaking instructions out there. What do you suggest is best for training a 6-month-old puppy? I'd like to crate train.
Six months of age is the perfect time to start puppy obedience and training classes! Research reputable trainers and classes in your area for your puppy to attend. Crate training can be highly beneficial for many pets and pet owners, but remaining consistent and using positive reinforcement is key. Talk to your veterinarian about who they recommend in your area.
My lab is great at following commands until there's another dog around. Any suggestions to keep his attention?
In my personal experience, most Labs are food motivated. Using a small treat for grabbing and rewarding their attention can go a long way!
How do I train a kitten to use a litter box?
I'm constantly amazed by how quickly kittens learn to use a litter box! Be sure to introduce the box upon arrival into your home and set them into it right after meals and nap time. Positive reinforcement after a successful litter box use can be either a treat or extra TLC from you (or both!). Remember, cats prefer clean litter boxes so make sure you're scooping daily and cleaning the entire box whenever you change the litter.
How long does it take to housebreak a puppy?
Every puppy is unique and on their own schedule. However, you can help your puppy along by consistently recognizing their cues to go outside and using positive reinforcement after a successful potty break!
Mischievous meerkats? Most definitely. Territorial tigers? Totally. Slithering snakes? Sssssertainly. There’s no better place to turn your own wild animals loose than within the spacious grounds of the Los Angeles Zoo that is home to more than 2,100 mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles representing more than 270 different species, of which more than 58 are endangered. And while the zoo is a wonderful place to explore and observe, you can make your visit even better with our in-the-know tips on everything from which exhibits to see and where to get the best eats. Who knows, maybe your kids will soon be leading zoo tours of their very own!
What’s New at the Los Angeles Zoo
Jamie Pham for Los Angeles Zoo
If you haven't visited the Los Angeles Zoo recently, there's been some new animals added to the 133 acre park.
Two new chimpanzees: 22-year-old, Pu’iwa and 8-year-old, Mshindi have arrived and while they are still getting integrated, guests can catch a peek of them in the penthouse habitat which can be viewed from the perimeter of the Safari Shuttle.
And this past April, Masai giraffes, Zainbu and Phillip, welcomed a healthy male calf that stands 6 ft. and 7in. tall—the tallest calf in LA Zoo history! Visitors are invited to view the new calf bonding with mom and dad along with the rest of the giraffe herd, weather permitting.
Jennifer O'Brien
Everyone has their favorite animals they’re dying to see and when interests vary between kids, it can feel daunting to make everyone happy. Our recommendation is to create a list of the highest priority animals that each member of your pack wants to visit. If the animal is not out when you stop by, ask a nearby volunteer or docent when the animals may out and about again—they are also full of great info about the animals.
Here’s an itinerary that has worked for us and will help make the most of your time at the zoo.
1. Take a quick peek at Reggie the Alligator sunning himself on his favorite rock.
2. Say hi to the pretty-in-pink flamingos as you walk past—make sure to hold your nose cause they are stinky!
3. Then slither over to the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles). Housed in two, side-by-side buildings, these 49 beautifully themed exhibits feature snakes, scorpions, tarantulas, lizards, frogs, salamanders and other creepy crawlies are sure to knock the scales off of your tiny tadpoles. For those who are looking for a bigger reptile fix, head to the Australia section and drop in on the world’s largest lizard at the Komodo Dragon exhibit.
4. From there, swing over to the Wasserman Family Thai Pavilion at the Elephants of Asia habitat to check out the zoo’s 7,000-pound pachyderms in action. The exhibit features four spectacular viewing areas to watch beloved elephants: Billy, Tina, Jewel and Shaunzi. In addition to the large demonstration yard and stunning waterfall, zookeepers hide treats throughout the habitat for elephants to discover.
5. After you stop for lunch, we recommend heading over to the gorilla habitat. The shady seats by the window are a lovely spot to digest and kids can spend lots of time watching the gentle giants lumber, eat and play. Much like your own young, the juvenile gorillas get pretty feisty after lunch making them even more fun to observe (and relate to).
Insider Tip: For a few extra bucks, you might want to take the Safari Shuttle to the top of the zoo and then walk back toward the entrance, which is mostly downhill. When you get to the top, stop by the Neil Papiano Play Park—because no matter how much you want to check out the animals, your child’s favorite spot is bound to be the playground (where they can go wild and you can have a moment of zen).
As you begin your descent downhill, swing by the Rainforest of the Americas. This two-story Amazonian stilt house serves as an impressive gateway to this multi-species jungle adventure. Here you'll see all sorts of rainforest creatures like howler monkeys, jaguars, otters and stingrays.
Insider Tip: If you're here on the weekend, before heading home, catch a ride on the the Tom Mankewicz Conservation Carousel. It is a does make for a perfect ending to your zoo adventure. Tickets are $3 per ride.
If you opt to bring food from home, our favorite picnic spot is on the shaded steps in front of the chimpanzee exhibit. Watch the chimps do their thing in a habitat Jane Goodall would be proud, while refueling for the rest of your day.
The Neil Papiano Play Park also has picnic tables and restrooms, making it a convenient eating spot, but be forewarned that this place is busiest from noon to 1 p.m. Next to the play area is an edible garden where volunteers grow certain plants as special treats for the animals such as roses, figs, and beets. Catnip grown in this very space provides hours of play for the Zoo’s resident cat population (hey, tigers just want to have fun!).
If bringing your own food isn’t your thing, there are plenty of places throughout the zoo to purchase lunch and special treats. Check out the newly opened Bean Sprouts Cafe—a kid-friendly dining option that specializes in healthy foods for kids and adults including pizza, smoothies, and sandwiches as well as "Imaginibbles," a signature line of themed, hand-held foods designed to make eating healthy fun.
The Zoo Grill is also a safe bet with some pretty darn delicious chicken tender baskets, hot and cold sandwiches and a decent variety of healthy kids' meals. Or if you want something with more of an upscale feel, check out the gourmet salad and sandwich options at Reggie’s Bistro at the front of the zoo.
And don't forget dessert! The churro sundae with chocolate sauce and whipping cream from the Churro Factory will give everyone the energy kick they need to get through the day.
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go to the LA Zoo
Advance online reservations are required, and walk-up tickets are not recommended or guaranteed.
Last entry to the zoo is 3:45 p.m.
Pack sunscreen, water, snacks, camera, baby wipes and hand sanitizer.
Don’t feel like lugging a stroller? Rent one at the zoo for $10 (double strollers are $14).
Here’s the buzz on bees—they love sweet treats like cotton candy and snow cones so keep an eye out. Also, leave sugary drinks at home.
Need cash? There’s an ATM located at the front of the zoo, just past the International Marketplace.
Small coolers and picnic baskets are welcome on zoo grounds. However, glassware and small plastic items such as straws and cup lids are not.
The LA Zoo is completely wheelchair accessible. From large print maps and wheelchairs for rent to service dogs and guided tours, kids with special needs will be well accommodated!
The LA Zoo Has Received KultureCity's Sensory Inclusion Certificate This mean the LA Zoo supports and provides an enhanced experience for Angelenos with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other sensory needs. According to the Zoo, "If you need support, head to the International Marketplace where you'll find sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads, available to all guests who may benefit from their use. And prior to visiting the Zoo, families can download the free KultureCity App from the App or Google Play Stores where they can view what sensory features are available at the Zoo and where they can access them. Also, on the app, is the Social Story, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying a day at the L.A. Zoo. Guests interested in knowing more about the new sensory inclusive experience at the L.A. Zoo should visit the Zoo’s website."
The Best Time to Go to the Los Angeles Zoo
If it jives with your schedule, try to hit up the zoo during the week right after they open when most families are at school or work. Obviously, weekends seem easier for visits, but they’re a total “zoo” people wise.
The earlier in the day you can go, the better as the animals are more active in the mornings, and parking is plentiful! You’ll also get a jump on the heat and avoid those mid-afternoon meltdowns (yours and your kiddos’). Animals start to go inside for the night at 4 p.m., so be sure to allow enough time to see everything before then.
Another great time to visit? Chilly or overcast days often mean that you'll have the zoo all to yourself and you're likely to see animals that hide out on warmer, sunnier days.
Insider Tip: The cycad garden at the front of the zoo contains some of the world’s oldest plant species—so valuable that they contain GPS chips to prevent theft. In fact, these are the exact plants that dinosaurs ate! Be sure to point these incredible specimens out to your little herbivores on the way out of (or into) the zoo.
Good to Know: Want to take your zoo experience on the road? The Los Angeles Zoo sometimes offers travel packages to visit far-flung places where the zoo is making a difference in global wildlife and habitat conservation. Currently on the docket? A 13-day wildlife safari to Botswana. For more information, contact Melissa Grossenbacher at: MGrossenbacher@lazoo.org.
Currently Closed Due to COVID-19
As of press time, some of the LA Zoo attractions remain closed due to COVID-19. Out of abundance of caution for the animals, zoo staff and guests, the following activities and exhibits are closed, but please keep checking the LA Zoo website for further updates and possible re-openings.
Muriel’s Ranch Contact Yard
Angela Collier World of Birds Theater & Show
Talks & Presentations
Giraffe Feedings
Flamingo Mingle
Treetops Terrace
California Condor Rescue Zone
Face Painting
Caricature Artists
Australia House
Various Roundhouses (please refer to signage at those locations for specifics)
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Cost: Ticket prices run $22 for adults (ages 13 – 61), $17 for children (ages 2 – 12) and infants (ages 0-23 months) are free.
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden
5333 Zoo Dr.
Online: lazoo.org
Classes for babies and toddlers can solve one of the biggest parenting hurdles: getting out of the house! Read on for a bunch of local classes for little ones in San Diego county. Whether your little learner is a mover and shaker, budding artist, future scientist, nature enthusiast or anyone in between, there is a class that will spark their interest and keep them both curious and happily entertained.
Calling all nature enthusiasts! The Native School is a 100% place-based, outdoor forest school offering preschool and kindergarten classes in North County San Diego. The school is founded on the Scandinavian forest school model and the belief that a child’s strong connection to the earth is essential to their well-being. Influenced by European approaches to early learning, the teachers act as facilitators, while the natural classroom environment also acts as an educator. Students gain hands on experience, while meeting school readiness standards for math, language, literacy and science. The school also strongly emphasizes a connection to the student's social and emotional well-being. Set in the many "living laboratories" of North County, classrooms rotate and are coordinated with enrolled families. It's a truly unique and special learning experience for curious minds.
Good to know: Learn more about and register for summer sessions today.
2292 Faraday Ave. Carlsbad, CA 92008 760-452-8182 Online: thenativeschool.com
For wee ones just walking, but not quite talking, sign language is a great way to learn. Classes are fun and interactive with reading, songs and playtime to help you and your little one learn sign language. Even more, there are tips and tricks about incorporating signing outside of class. Did we mention toddlers meet new friends who inspire learning? A definite bonus! If you want to check it out before signing up for a class, attend a library storytime for free. You'll find the current schedule online.
Cost: From $185/child for 8 open-air classes; online options available
If you have a budding scientist in your house, then the Young Scientist Program at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center may just be the thing for you. This four-week program is designed to help mini science lovers (and an accompanying parent or caregiver) check out the scientific wonders of the world. Sessions are currently held online and include an hour-long exploration into Earth checking out water, plants, seeds, rocks and landforms. There’s also an adventure into astronomy investigating planets, moons, stars and rockets; a mighty meteorologist breakdown where you will learn about measuring weather. Lastly, there’s a cool kids chemistry lesson with radical reactions, states of matters and mixtures. The program is best suited to mini Einsteins, ages 3-5 years old.
Cost: $75/session for members, $85/session for non-members Hours: Thurs. or Sat., 11 a.m.
Spending time with your toddler can be a walk in the park, literally. Your kiddo will love classes like mud play or bubble time. Even more, you'll love that it's at your local park. Led by a group leader these classes encourage meeting friends, exploring nature and just plain old fun. Their play-based learning curriculum adapts to all the different skills that kids are developing and practicing. Classes available in various locations throughout San Diego. Find one near you!
Put a little om in your next outing with your budding yogi with a class at this kid-friendly yoga studio. Classes for tots warm up with an art project, continue with yoga poses, songs and movement. Students enrolled receive their own art & yoga bundles to use for class each week. Materials are not shared among other students and are stored at the studio for your child to use each week. Your tot leaves happy, calm and full. The studio also offers birthday parties and special camps at select locations.
Cost: Introductory class, $20
Locations: Flower Hill Promenade, Mission Hills and Liberty Station Online: ifiwasabirdyoga.com
The ChIMES program by the San Diego Youth Symphony is playing your little one's tune! ChIMES (Childhood Introduction to Music Education, with Smiles) is designed for kids from infants to age 5. Classes provide meaningful music-making experiences that encourage family bonding, at-home learning and pave the way for future musical development. These interactive classes develop motor and aural skills by incorporating singing, movement, rhythm activities, hands-on instrument play and lots of fun. Classes often feature guest musicians and families might learn about the French Horn one week (and get up close to touch it and see how it works) and the next week they might watch a young violinist or cellist come in to demonstrate their instrument and play a few tunes.
Our favorite part? Babies are welcome! Although this program welcomes all young kids up to age 5, it's extremely popular with the “baby crowd.” ChIMES is one of the only music classes around that allows and encourages participation from families with very young babies. It offers a great way for new moms to get out, bond with their baby and meet other parents.
Dates: Sessions run throughout the year, please see the full schedule online.
Eager to see your sporty tot out on the field again? Soccer Shots is a high-energy program that introduces children to fundamental soccer principles, such as using your feet, dribbling and the basic rules of the game. Groups are broken out by age, but whether you're in the Minis (ages 2-3), the Classics (ages 3-5), or the Primers (ages 5-8), you know that your little Christiano Rinaldo or Mia Hamn is going to have fun through games, songs and positive reinforcement.
Good to know: Soccer Shots also offers backyard camp for your select group. Find the need-to-know info here.
As adults, we know music has the ability to transform our mood, break us out of a funk and just add an extra dose of pure joy to our lives. For babies and toddlers, play combined with music does all of that and more. It has the ability to help develop processing of both music and new speech sounds. Creating music, and the human interaction that accompanies music-making, involves multi-sensory activities that grow and foster strong brain growth and healthy interaction between young children and their caregivers. Luckily, there are plenty of places in San Diego County for kiddos to bounce to the beat. Whether it's an outdoor class at Liberty Station or a Mommy-and-Me class at Blossom Music Tree, there are plenty of options for your budding Bach. Try one of these local music schools to get your baby in the groove.
Blossom Music Tree Outdoor classes not available at Cottonwood Creek Park 95 N. Vulcan Ave. Encinitas, CA 92024 Online: blossommt.com/SummerOutdoor.html
Do you have a little engineer at home who thrives when they get to use science to build and create? The San Diego Air & Space Museum offers a hands-on STEM enrichment program that helps children build school-ready skills by encouraging communication and problem solving. In their latest Astronaut Challenge, kids get to find out if they have what it takes to survive on the moon. They'll learn to design a rover, mine for lunar ice, fix a circuit and more! From fun forces and bursting energy to exploring space and airplane adventures, you'll find a class that piques your toddler's interest. Each session lasts four weeks and is designed for children ages 3-5 with accompanying adult.
Good to know: For the first time, the museum is also offering drop-in classes where kids can have Fun with Physics and try an Astronaut Challenge.
Babies and toddlers dance, twirl and spin their way through a joyful hour at The Tu Tu School in Carlsbad. Tiny dancers, ages 18 months to 8 years old, will learn the art of ballet and use their creativity and movement during these classes. What a way to get plenty of exercise before nap time! Tutu Toddler classes encourage aspiring dancers to be imaginative and move to the beat. Check out their class schedule to get dancing. The Tu Tu School also offers parties to help your swan or sugar plum fairy celebrate their big day with friends.
Good to know: Families can try a free trial class.
6996 El Camino Real, #107 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Online: tutuschool.com
The most organic way to be kind is to start with small acts of kindness in your home. Encouraging kindness is an important skill that is foundational to a child’s development. Kindness is innate within us all however it is also a skill that can be taught and nurtured and the best place to begin cultivating this, is at home.
The easiest way for children to learn to be kind is when you as a caregiver, model kind behaviors. Children learn by what they see and hear, which is a reminder that our children are always passively watching and gaining an understanding of how we communicate and interact, from the closest people around them.
Try one of these engaging and hands-on activities to promote kindness in your home.
1. Kindness Begins with You
Being kind to yourself is the first step in being kind to others. Positive self-talk is a powerful tool to assist with increased self-confidence, motivation and improve your outlook. For examples of positive self-talk, check out: Yes I Can: A Guide to Courage from the Big World of Little Dude —a book series that promotes social and emotional learning.
2. Create a Kindness Jar
A kindness jar is a fantastic way to promote kindness. By acknowledging kind acts, it helps with positive reinforcement and is a great visual to see the kindness jar become full—full of kindness.
3. Create an Empathy Teddy Hospital
Being kind to others begins with empathy. Empathy is a difficult concept to grasp for children. A concrete way to teach empathy is through dramatic or pretend play. Every child has been to the doctor and it can bring up feelings of stress or anxiety, so they can relate to the poor little teddy bears that are feeling unwell and are now in the teddy hospital.
4. Bake Kindness Cookies
Baking can be a fun way to show children how to follow a recipe, how to work together, and then have a gift they can thoughtfully give away. Being kind to others is both beneficial for the giver and receiver and putting hard work into making delicious treats, like kindness cookies, to give away will certainly sweeten the lucky recipient’s day!
5. Donate & Recycle
Recycle a box and put it to use! Go around your home, with your child, and asking them to select gently used items of toys, books, and clothing that they no longer need or use, and put them in the box. You could also decorate the box before donating it to a local charity, shelter, or a non-profit thrift store.
Hi! I am an author, founder and educator. I have a Bachelor of Media Communications, Bachelor of Elementary Education Degrees as well as an Early Childhood Montessori Certification and in the process of completing a Master of Education. I live between New York and Byron Bay. I'm the mama of Grace, Theodore and Little Dude!
For parents, raising confident kids means teaching them how to meet life’s many challenges and to succeed. According to experts, throughout their formative years, kids will look to their families, friends and peers to help develop their sense of self, but as they master skills, they become more secure in their abilities. And, with positive reinforcement, kids’ self-confidence and self-esteem will grow exponentially, which leads them to try new things, do their best and feel proud of their achievements. Keep reading to learn why it’s so important to raise kids with confidence.
Possessing self-confidence can help a child take on challenges and risks that may exceed their current abilities. By successfully pushing boundaries, a child’s confidence can create a virtuous circle where each win leads to the next win. Researchers at Stony Brook University wanted to see if there was truth in the adage “success breeds success,” and their study validated that early successes bestowed on individuals produced significant increases in subsequent rates of success.
Confidence has been shown to help children in education as well: Behavioral psychologist Stanley Coopersmith said, “In the critical childhood years, positive feelings of self-esteem have been shown to increase children’s confidence and success at school.”
As parents, we know that children are innately creative and there are few things as precious as a child’s vivid imagination. But the wellspring of a kiddo’s creativity can diminish over time if she is discouraged from nurturing her creative confidence. A survey conducted by IBM found that creativity was the single most sought-after trait in leaders today. Children who are self-possessed and confident are more likely to retain their super-charged creativity.
According to Tom Kelley, co-author of Creative Confidence and partner at IDEO, a global design and innovation firm, “Creativity, far from requiring rare gifts and skills, depends on what you believe you can do with the talents and skills you already have.” Confidence is an oft-ignored but essential part of creativity. It’s the confidence that allows people to super-charge their creativity.
Studies have shown that self-confidence isn’t just a feeling or emotional state of mind, but can have a direct impact on mental and physical health. A child with a strong foundation of confidence is better at coping with stress and more resilient against illnesses.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the protective nature of confidence and self-esteem, especially when it comes to the impact of stress and physical disease. In a study published in the National Library of Medicine, patients with a greater feeling of mastery and high self-esteem, in combination with having close relationships, were shown to be less prone to mental or physical illness. The study reported, “Positive self-esteem is associated with mental well-being, adjustment, happiness, success, and satisfaction.”
Children’s confidence and self-esteem grow when they see what they do matters to others. Letting kids help around the house or do service projects at school can help them build their confidence as well as foster empathy for others. Encouraging kids to feel secure in themselves can help them see the world beyond themselves and understand that they are part of a larger community.
Parents can nurture a child’s confidence by modeling positive behavior and being thoughtful about praise, experts say. Rather than overpraising when it’s unwarranted, which can come across as hollow and insincere, help kids set goals, then recognize and praise their effort instead of the end results.
Last but certainly not least, according to this study, confidence inspires contentment, happiness, and pride in any kid. By encouraging play and being attentive during playtime, parents demonstrate to their kids the importance of having fun and understanding what brings joy to themselves. Showing love, embracing imperfections, and helping your kiddo find his passions can help build his confidence and self-esteem in myriad ways that will benefit him for a lifetime to come.
What we say when we kiss our kids goodbye can often fly under the radar when it comes to school mornings. But, even though the other stuff must come first (breakfast—check, lunch packed—check, shoes on feet—check!) those last-minute attributes are important, too. We asked parents all over the country for their daily traditions and collected our favorites! From creative silliness to classic kisses, scroll down to see them all.
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The Classic Kiss
While some parents end up with an unusual tradition, the classic kiss and “I love you, have a good day” hold strong.
A Hiccup
Totally unique and evolved out of SPOKE contributor Corey W and her kiddo's Kindergarten transition, the "hiccup" consists of "a high five, a kiss, and then I'd pick her up and hug her. We called it a 'hiccup' goodbye because the first letters of the first two steps and the last two letters of the last step seemed to spell it out!"
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A Reminder to Put on Their Listening Ears
From one mom who actually puts on her listening ears with her kid to other parents who gently remind their little ones to listen to their teachers, it's popular for mom and dad to instill the importance of paying attention.
A Sweet Tradition
Red Tricycle's very own Ad Sales manager had a sweet school morning tradition with her own mom growing up, "every year before the first day of school, my mom would say the Shehecheyanu prayer (to celebrate something new) and always tell me to take the first step out of the house with my right foot."
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Hugs, Hugs and More Hugs!
Some parents twirl their kids around in a hug, some give a tight squeeze at their kid’s eye level, and one mom had us giggling with her unique version: “Before my kids walk out in the morning, we give each other what we call a T-Rex hug. I put my elbows really close to my sides, extend my forearms at a 90-degree angle and awkwardly pat the arms of my children, while they do the same to me. Not all that affectionate, but it makes us giggle every time.”
Blow Kisses
A twist on the traditional, some parents and kids send out an airborne version of a kiss. We especially love the way one creative mom does it “We blow each other a kiss and catch the kiss, and rub it on our cheeks so we can keep it with us all day.”
Keep It Simple
Teacher Jill Hornstein shares her favorite: "A fist bump. The kids that have a simple ritual are the ones that come in ready and excited to learn. Parents should NOT walk their kids into school every day. Start from the beginning allowing them to be independent."
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A Secret Handshake
Writer Amber Guetebier says she and her son have developed a secret handshake, “We change them seasonally, and they are goofy. So after the love you's and hugs, we have a quick ‘handshake’ that says, I'll be here when you're done with this school thing."
A Good Start
Another way to start the day with affirmations is how SPOKE contributor Iliana Rosario-Urban does it, "Every morning during the school year I wake up before the boys and I write a positive note on the bathroom mirror so while they are brushing their teeth they can start their day with positive affirmations."
Affirmation Questions
The drop-off line is a great place to throw in last-minute positive reinforcement. From “Are you going to make someone smile?” and “Are you going to be confident?” to “Are you going to make good choices?” there’s no end to the ways you can remind kids of what they need to be doing each day.
Love Signs
Signing the words “I Love You,” is a sweet and easy tradition to start. One mom, who has a difficult drop-off kid says “Peace Out!” while throwing up the peace sign out the car window.
Mom Jesseca charmed us with her sweet goodbye tradition: “I draw a small heart on my hand, and one on my daughter’s. We 'charge' them by holding hands to drop off. Then if she needs extra love or encouragement during the day, she can press the heart for a boost.”
Rock Star Mornings
Mom Sara Schultz Borgstede doesn't draw hearts, she draws stars instead. "I draw a little star on their wrist because they are my rock stars!"
Power Jams
Yup, power jams are still, well, powerful. From one mom’s slightly shocking version, “I take musical requests on the way to school which usually means that I pull up to the Catholic school drop off with something very inappropriate like Gangsta's Paradise, Hypnotize (the clean version, of course) or California Love blasting from my minivan” to the most motivating songs around (Thunder, Born this Way, What About Us, etc.), kids love heading to the classroom with a killer beat and positive lyrics on the mind.
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Other Favorites
Readers and parents shared so many sweet goodbyes that we had to include a few more.
“Be kind, I love you.”
“You are an amazing kid! Go have an amazing day! “
“Eat, sleep, and play well! Learn something new!
“Te amo mi vida! Or I love you mi vida!”
"Every morning at drop-off, I race my son up the stairs at school. It's a "me and him" thing that leaves us both cracking up and energized for the day. He beats me every time." - SPOKE contributor Elizabeth Silva.
"My son goes to a Montessori school. Most of the rooms have different class pets. Every morning my husband and the kiddo stop into a different room to visit them before getting settled into his own class. The bluefish room is currently his favorite." - SPOKE contributor Elysa.
— Gabby Cullen with Amber Guetebier, Andy Huber, Maria Chambers, Ayren Jackson-Cannady, Beth Shea, Kate Loweth
Portland pools are finally opening up again and you want to make sure your little fish is ready to swim. Along with keeping your kids safe in the water, teaching your child to swim can have significant long term health benefits including strengthening their hearts, lungs, and respiratory systems. Fortunately, the Portland area offers lessons for all ages and we’ve rounded up some of the best spots to enroll. Read on to find out more.
All seven of Portland Parks and Recreation outdoor public pools and the five indoor pools will open on Tuesday, June 22 and swim lessons will begin! The number of classes that we are able to offer will be limited this summer so you'll want to sign up as early as possible. All classes are 30 minutes long and offered Monday through Friday for one week. Lesson sessions will run run between June 28 and July 25, and July 26 and August 29. PP&R will implement elevated cleaning procedures in an effort to stay COVID-safe. All patrons over the age of 5 will be required to wear a mask when not in the swimming pool.
At Children of the Sea you will find a creative water world where the pool is the classroom and learning is fun for everyone! They believe that every child can learn to love and respect the water. They use lots of stimulation, positive reinforcement, practice and patience, and hands on instruction to help kids master skills while having a blast. Their facility is open seven days a week and is appropriate for kids as young as 4 months. They offer small class sizes with certified instructors and classes take place once a week. Children of the Sea is located near Washington Square Mall and is welcoming of all families! If your child is ready to learn how to swim browse through their swim programs to find a class that is perfect for your little one. Please note: classes are offered to families who previously signed up first. There is a wait list for classes that are already full,
Swimbabes is Oregon’s first swimming school offering classes to kids ages newborn to 6 years. At Swimbabes they believe the earlier a child is introduced to water the easier is it to teach them to swim. They have SynchroBabies™ class options for the tiniest of the babes. Infants and young babies are taught submersion, back floating, and breath control. For those a bit older there’s the SynchroTots™ and Basic Water Awareness classes. These classes are designed for babies 7 months old to 3 years old. This offering has a focus on water comfort, assisted back floating, breath holding, and teaching the parent how to assist their child in the water.
10552 SE 52nd Ave., Milwaukie 503-786-6250 Online: swimbabes.net
Cascade Athletics Club
Cascade Athletics Club has two locations in the Portland area that are currently offering swim lessons: Gresham and Vancouver. They have been teaching swimming lessons for over 30 years and continue to provide small class sizes and individual attention. The Kids Aquatics Programs have excellent teacher to student ratios that allow instructors to give lots of personal feedback. For beginner levels the classes have a max of 5 kids in a class. As the levels increase class sizes can have up to 8 kids. If your child needs more individualized attention private sessions are also available though there may be a wait list at this time. Check the full schedule of classes here. You can find pricing options here.
Gresham: 19201 SE Division St., Gresham 503-665-4142 Vancouver: 16096 SE 15th St., Vancouver 360-597-1100 Online: cascadeac.com
Farber Swim School
This cool swim spot has two location in Portland. They offer Baby and Me classes as well as private and semi private classes for children three-years and older. The classes last approximately 30 minutes and occur at the same time, on the same day with the same teacher each week! These lessons are for children and adults of any background, experience, or ability level and customized to your child's needs! For semi-private classes, you can bring up to three children or siblings to learn together. You'll find a list of prices here. Note: while in the lobby areas children five and older will be required to wear masks.
We’ve had a year of shifting academics and social interaction to a virtual platform due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Gardening is an easy, screen-free activity that can provide your child with numerous benefits.
Designing and digging a garden can be the perfect outdoor parent-child bonding activity. Not only is it fun and rewarding for kids, but studies have shown interacting with plants has benefits ranging from reducing stress to promoting healthy eating habits. Another reason to grab your garden gloves? Working with your child to plan, organize, and plant can help develop their executive functioning skills. And that could improve your child’s ability to complete academic and daily life tasks. How exactly can you boost your child’s developmental skills through gardening? Let’s dig in!
Step 1: Plan the Plot
Start by letting your child choose what plants to grow. A few ideas:
Pizza Garden. Include veggies you can use to top your family’s next homemade pizza, like mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli.
Salsa Garden. Are chips & salsa a favorite snack in your household? Cilantro, tomatoes, and onions it is!
Rainbow Garden. Think cucumbers, bell peppers, strawberries, and other colorful fruits and veggies.
Salad Garden. Plant lettuce and any favorites to make the perfect side salad at your next dinner!
Browse through a gardening magazine or website to order the seeds. Ask open-ended questions about what plants your child thinks you should choose and why. That can help develop cognitive skills like organization and reasoning.
Do some research with your child on the items you plan to include in your garden. Challenge your child to put their planning skills to work by gathering information on the stages of growth they can expect to see from their plants and what tools or materials they’ll need.
Step 2: Map It Out
Now it’s time for you and your gardening buddy to map out the location of the plants in your garden! Help your child draw a picture of where each plant should go or use an online tool like this one.
Asking cause and effect questions can help your child use critical thinking skills. Do certain plants need to get more or less sun? Will some veggies need more room to grow than others? How will that affect where you choose to plant your seeds? Help your child see the different options available when thinking about how to plan their garden. As they start to see that they can go about completing a task in multiple different ways, their cognitive flexibility skills can strengthen. That can help them tackle all kinds of to-dos in their daily life.
Step 3: Dig In!
Time to let your green thumb shine and plant the seeds. This part helps your child develop their ability to execute a plan. Before you get started, talk about what steps you’ll need to follow: weed, dig, plant, add soil, water. Through this, their sequencing skills can soar! Focusing on following each step can develop your child’s inhibitory control. They’ll need to control their behavior, attention, and thoughts to each task at hand in order to get their garden growing. And even more good news! Outdoor activities like gardening have been proven by the American Journal of Public Health to improve children’s attention skills.
Step 4: Let Your Garden Grow
Your child can’t bite into a juicy watermelon from their garden just yet! Give them some responsibilities for caring for their garden, like these:
Watering
Weeding
Watching for the plants to reach each stage of growth
Maintaining the garden through these tasks can help work your child’s memory skills each day. Getting up and working on the garden can also encourage their ability to initiate tasks. Finally, let your child enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of their labor. Watching their plants grow, picking, and eating from their garden can boost self-confidence and provide positive reinforcement for all of that hard work.
If you have concerns about your child’s ability to complete aspects of tasks such as organization, maintaining attention, planning, or reasoning, consider consulting an expert. TherapyWorks is a company that provides speech therapy services with licensed professionals that can evaluate your child and, if needed, provide ongoing therapy services.
I'm a mom entrepreneur and Co-Founder of TherapyWorks, a pediatric therapy company that provides services via telehealth. I recognized the need to make high-quality pediatric therapy more convenient after one of my own children needed therapy and launched TherapyWorks with my Co-Founder, an experienced speech language-pathologist, with that in mind.
As a mom, it can feel daunting. I’ve seen it so many times. That nervous look in a mother’s eye as the family photo session she planned for weeks begins to go off track when her little one melts down.
As a long-time San Diego family photographer, I know it well. It’s usually a mix of frustration and embarrassment. You have a lot of time and money invested in this experience. You carefully planned your family’s outfits, convinced your less than enthusiastic spouse to join, picked the perfect location, and possibly bribed your children. When they start acting up, you might be the one who wants to cry! It definitely doesn’t have to be this way. I’m here to make your family photography experience enjoyable right from the beginning. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind as you prepare for your session.
1. Let Them Be Kids!
As a mom of six and a family photographer for over 10 years I have seen it all. Super shy kids, hyper kids, kids who literally want nothing to do with my camera. Guess what? I can almost guarantee we will still get images that make your heart skip a beat. There is nothing your child can do that will surprise me. Don’t feel embarrassed for even a second. I’ve been at this a long time. I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve to get even the most hesitant child to open up a little. I’ve got you mama! As you prepare for family photos, remember your kids have minds of their own. Especially toddlers. If something I’m doing in a session isn’t working, that’s totally ok! We can switch gears immediately. I keep things very light-hearted and move quickly to keep a young child engaged.
2. Relax.
Kids feed off your mood. Therefore, take a deep breath and relax! I know getting everyone ready is stressful, but try your best to stay as calm as possible. Positive reinforcement works way better than negative consequences. Threats of discipline can send a session spiraling out of control, especially with super little ones with no impulse control. I know it’s frustrating, but I will help you through it. Set yourself up for success by talking about the session ahead of time in a fun manner. Say something like, “We’re going to the beach with Tristan today. She loves to chase you around, makes silly faces, and tells silly jokes. She’ll be taking our pictures and maybe she will let you try!” Once a session begins, the best thing you can do to help is to have fun and snuggle up with your kids.
3. Let Me Take the Lead.
You know your child better than anyone else. You know what makes them nervous, laugh, or gets them out of a bad mood. In this instance, you can just sit back and try to relax. As an experienced mom and photographer, I can usually get almost all of my young clients to let loose and have fun. You might feel like you need to stand behind me and tell your kids to “smile” or “look at the camera.” This is not the case when you’re working with a professional family photographer. My job is to capture real emotion and genuine smiles. The goal isn’t to “make” them smile. It’s my job is to get them to capture the natural toothless grins and belly laughs. Your job is to take a breath and soak in the moment. Parents rarely have the opportunity to simply relax and stare at their incredible little people. This is that moment. Enjoy every second of it!
Sometimes it’s helpful to show them a picture of the photographer in advance when talking about the upcoming session. Check out their Instagram profile or website about section. This will help them see we are a friend. A quick zoom call or video text introducing myself helps my clients as well! That can definitely help make timid kids feel a little more connected from the start.
4. Plan in Advance. By far, the easiest way to prepare for a family photography session is to give yourself plenty of time to get ready. You want to eat before your session and have a snack and/or water for your kids on location. In addition, make sure your children are rested and pack everything you need well in advance. Give your outfits a test run in the days prior to your session. If something feels uncomfortable, choose something else. Stress increases when you feel rushed. This can result in a cranky family. Give yourself extra time to get dressed, load the car, and drive to the session. The goal is to minimize any crazy, rushed feelings. They will totally feed off of you. If you are as cool as a cucumber, it will make things even smoother for them.
5. Get your Partner on Board.
It was mentioned earlier that your mood can set the tone for the session. Your partner’s mood matters too. Kids will notice if their parents aren’t excited about the session. I know most people don’t exactly jump for joy at the prospect of having their photo taken. So, talk with your spouse and ask them to put their game face on. My sessions are all about capturing genuine emotion, authentic connection, and real smiles. My job is to capture the real you. Get ready to play, laugh, relax. Just be yourself!
Even if I am not your photographer, these tips would set you out on the right foot to create some amazing memories. If all else fails, pour yourself a nice glass of wine later!
Hi! My name is Tristan. I am a mom of 6 & the owner of Tristan Quigley Photography. I specialize in maternity, newborn, senior & family photography in the San Diego area. I have over 10+ years of experience creating timeless memories for thousands of amazing clients!
