Being a mom is an incredibly unique experience. Being a mom again with a toddler at hand could be a lot of work. There is a lot of laughter, tears, smiles, and probably even screams. Trying to keep the little humans alive is a big job. There are usually no days off, but the world keeps on spinning, and you have to keep going. And you might feel like your bond with your toddler is weakening.
Once you have another baby, it becomes more necessary to ensure that the older one does not feel left out. And you are spending ample time with him/her too. Let’s take a look at 10 tips that may make your job a bit easier and more enjoyable.
Join a Local Mom Club
Joining a group of like-minded moms is a great way to bond with your kids. Especially if you did not have any moms in your circle before having kids. Whether you’re a mom of one or multiple, going out with your kids alone can be stressful.
Joining a mom club will allow you to bond with your children during fun activities and hang out with other adults at the same time. Dress yourself up and your kids in trendy clothing and go out!
Spend Time Outdoors
Most kids love spending time outdoors. Spending time outdoors is a great way to bond with both toddlers and younger babies at the same time. And do not worry, this does not have to be a stress-infused event. If you can, head out to your very own yard and let your toddler explore while your younger baby soaks in warm and comforting weather.
Put Your Phone Down to Bond with Toddlers
We know that this is usually easier said than done. But, try putting your phone down as often as possible when you are around your kids. Imagine if you are spending the day with someone and they are glued to their phone screen the entire time. (That doesn’t sound fun right!) Even if your toddler is not talking much yet, spend time talking to them and interacting with them. It helps in the long run.
Clean Together
Cleaning together is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Most toddlers love cleaning, and you should take advantage of that. You can get your toddler their own mini cleaning set and let them help you around the house.
If you have a younger baby and a toddler, try putting your younger baby in a safe place within sight. Cleaning is a great way for gently teaching babies that it is okay to be alone. Your mom is close and within reach. Talk to your baby and keep them involved in the process, clean with your toddler, and get things done. It’s a win for everyone!
Take Lots of Pictures
We know that some of you are rolling your eyes at this one. Well, do not worry. You don’t have to dress up, and you do not have to post pictures on social media. Practice taking pictures with your little ones as often as you can(trust me you won’t regret it). Even if your shirt is stained, your hair isn’t done, and you would just rather not – you will be happy for the memories one day, and your toddler will also feel inclusive important, and special.
Arts and Crafts
In this day and age, there are tons of safe and non-toxic arts and crafts solutions. Imagine cute baby feet and adorable toddler hands in a picture frame in the living room.
Grab a few of your favorite arts and crafts materials and create art with your kids. Watch how they express themselves and, most importantly, bond.
Read to Them
A mother’s voice is a soothing and powerful tool for children. Try to bond with both young babies and toddlers by reading to them. Reading children’s books with beautiful vivid pictures will usually keep kids engaged for a while. But a friendly warning: you may know their favorite books by memory within three days or less. They will never want to stop hearing their mommy’s soothing voice along with their favorite story.
Nap Together
After exploring the great outdoors, doing arts and crafts, and reading the best books, you and your little ones will probably be tired.
Naptime is a great time to get things done around the house or complete work in the office. But as often as you can, nap with your kids. Kids love snuggling up to their favorite person and find great joy in waking up next to them, too.
Eat Together
Kids’ mealtime is another significant time to get things done. But, it is also a great time to bond with your toddler. Sharing a meal with a toddler is a great way to learn your toddler a little better, just like sharing a meal with an adult. Understand what makes them unique while you enjoy your favorite foods.
Relax
Did your toddler have too much screen time today? Are you bonding with them enough? Did we get enough skin to skin during the newborn phase? Why won’t they stop crying?
When you’re a mom to tiny little humans, your mind is constantly racing. Some days will be easier than others, and some days will honestly just be incredibly hard. Don’t stress about how much or how little you did every day.
We promise that the moms on social media don’t have it all together. No one does. Just have fun, learn, and bond in ways that feel natural to you. You’re doing fine, and your kids are great. Relax, mama.
Hope you found the article about how to bond with toddlers as a new mom useful. We would be happy to read your valuable opinions in the comments.
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