One of Those Days....

It's going to happen. You may not be ready for it, but ready or not, it has arrived. It's the day of the fussy toddler. Sometimes you know before you open the door to their room. Sometimes it at breakfast and it dawns on you that the entire day is going to be like this. Nothing can make them happy. We had such a day two days ago. Baby M was simply not happy. I'm sure it was due to the cold we were all sharing. But the usually happy sweet boy was nothing but a fussy and tearful mess. So what's a (foster) mother to do?

-First things first. If your child needs medical attention, don't delay. Take them to your medical professional.

-Fussyness is a time when extra cuddles are often needed. So give yourself an excuse at nap and bedtime or any other time for extra time for cuddles and rocking.

-Get a change of scenery. Whether it be a drive in the car or a good long walk, a change of scenery will do you both good.

-Involve senory play. Blowing bubbles, is great. They must use hand/eye coordination to pop the bubbles, they are learning about shapes and texture, and learn to control their breath if they want to blow them. It's a good idea to get the no spill containers. They really do work.

-Take a bath in the middle of the day. We as adults know there is something soothing about the warm water. Let them play as long as both of you are happy. In the meantime, you can clean out a bathroom drawer or pluck your eyebrows.  Follow it up with a coconut oil massage.

-Another sensory activity is an edible playdough appropriate for toddlers. Also cornstarch play is wonderful as it involves two different textures when you add water. It's messy, but fun.

-Make sure they are getting enough attention from you. Remember plenty of eye contact and smiles are especially important to children who need bonding.

-Try new games and new activities. Yesterday we made tent with two chairs and a big blanket. It was fun and of course he pulled it down and jumped all over the blankets. But it worked and he was happy and we had fun.

-As my son would say, never underestimate the power of music. Put on something happy or something soothing. This is beneficial for both of you. I also find that if I'm singing it keeps me calm.

-Keep your routine. While toddlers enjoy new activities, they thrive on predictability and routine. It builds security.

-Keep it fun, keep it simple and remember, this too shall pass.

Also, I would love for you to share your tried and true trick for soothing a fussy toddler. Please share!