Researchers validate our instincts

Sandy and I received a very pleasant surprise recently. I found an article offering suggestions that could make parenting three-year-olds a little easier. Researchers say rituals are very important to young children, and household routines and schedules give them a sense of security. Transitions are difficult at this age, and they suggest parents provide warnings of upcoming changes so the children have time to change gears: “ten more minutes till bedtime.” They suggest encouraging independent activities to build more self-reliance. As a matter of course, they suggest pointing out colors and numbers “There’s a blue Mommy car (VW Bug)” or “I see six tanker cars.” Sensory experiences like sand, mud, finger paints and puzzles provide excellent opportunities for learning and developing coordination. Our surprise was that we already do these things, not by design necessarily, but by instinct.