photo credit: PBS

Picky Eaters can use a Personalized Name Plate

Many parents would characterize the typical toddler as being a picky eater. Keep in mind that even if your toddler is a picky eater, if he is growing normally and is physically active, with a lot of energy, then his diet is probably okay.  Parents tend to feed their baby’s and toddlers “kid food.” We all know what this is. Its pizza, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, chips, etc. and we know this stuff is not healthy.  So if it is just as easy to open a bag of baby carrots as it is a bag of chips why do are many parents reaching for chips over carrots? Many parents say it is because they have a “picky eater” and these are the only foods the child will eat.

What most parents don’t realize is that all toddlers are picky eaters. And it’s perfectly normal, even expected developmental behavior. It may surprise you to find out that this behavior has very little to do with the taste of food and is mostly about wanting control of a situation. Most toddlers learn very early that eating is very easy to control and it is likely to get a response out of you. This makes it fun (for your kid, not you)!

The big challenge for parents is NOT to give into this behavior, and DON’T fall into the trap of offering bland, unhealthy foods as a replacement for flavorful, healthy foods. This can be a difficult time. Here is our advice:

Parents of picky eaters should remember that:

The typical serving size for a toddler is about 1/4 of what an adult size serving would be, so you would only expect a toddler to eat 1/4 of a slice of bread, 1-2 tablespoons of vegetables, or 1 ounce of meat.  If your toddler is drinking too much milk and/or juice, she may be too full to eat, so follow the typical recommendations of 16-24 ounces of milk and 4-6 ounces of juice.

Most toddlers like to feed themselves, so give them lots of chances. Toddlers will often want to try what their parents are eating and that is a good opportunity to get them to try some new foods, although you may have to offer it several times before they even think of trying it.  So allow your picky eater to try food off of your plate. My pediatrician told me toddlers sometimes prefer to eat what’s on their parents’ plates, as they are aware their food is different. Make sure your child has a chance to see older siblings, cousins, or friends eating a variety of foods. Kids often will follow their lead.

The experts also give suggestions to help you and your picky eater out.  Have your picky eater help in the kitchen by stirring batter and adding spices.

Let your child pick out fruits and veggies at the grocery store.  Being creative with some of the top food choices can also be a bonus. Use cookie cutters to make cucumber stars or apple suns would be an idea. A couple of way to hide the taste would be to dunk fruits and veggies in sauces or dips, or shred carrots and zucchini in casseroles and spaghetti sauce.  A new trend in foods now is the smoothie so; fresh fruit smoothies make a delicious treat — let your child help you peel and add the ingredients.

Tricks and games seem to work great for many parents.  Try using Personalized Plates to make the meal fun and encourage your child to take a bite of everything on the plate. The more often they try it, the more likely they will be to eat it willingly.  Have them eat something that is found on their name on their “Personalized Name” plate.  If you use the Personalized Firetruck Plate eat something that is located on the fire hose.

Here are a couple of ideas from some of my friends.  I explain to my kids where food comes from and how it is made. We visit the local farmers market, where they have samples of fruits and veggies to try. Each time my kids try a new one, I give them a prize.

One friend said that her son has an issue eating meat, so we play a game called “hide the meat.” She gets a forkful of meat, dip it in applesauce, and pretend the meat has suddenly disappeared. He thinks its funny, which makes him more inclined to eat, and I can rest easy knowing he’s getting the protein he needs. This trick has helped my friend’s 20-month-old try and enjoy new textures. She stands next to her and encourage her by clapping my hands and saying “Yay!” or making animal sounds. When I do that, she seems to want to try new foods, and she claps for herself after each bite.  We also use a fun baby bibs to signal that it is time to eat. Listen to your child. After all, they are the ones eating the food, and each child has different tastes. Try not to force foods on them. Instead, make healthy foods with a yummy twist, like honey or applesauce, to entice healthier appetites.

Lastly, Start early, Include the child, Set goals, Be consistent, firm, and don’t give up.  Good Luck

There are times when the birth announcement of a new baby is not well received. While an older sibling may be excited and thrilled at the prospect of a new brother or sister, younger siblings may display signs of jealousy or feelings of displacement. Preparing that child for the baby’s arrival could help to make the transition easier and smoother for everyone.

Preparing for Baby

There are many ways you can prepare your child for a new addition to the family. These tips are courtesy of The University of Michigan New Baby Study:

•            Tell your child about the new baby three to four months before giving birth. This way your tummy is showing and it will be easier for your child to imagine that a baby is in there. Telling a young child any sooner may cause your child unnecessary anxiety about the impending birth.

•            Let your child feel the kicks and movement baby makes inside your tummy.

•            Tell your child about how life will change once baby arrives. Be sure to assure her that you will love her just the same as you do now and that the new baby is not more important, but will require a lot of your attention.

•            Sign your child up for a sibling class where he can learn about babies and sharing mom and dad with a new brother or sister.

•            Let your child help decorate the nursery. Involve her in color, furniture and decorating decisions. Let her help shop for baby’s supplies, such as diapers, bottles, etc.

•            If you will be moving your child to a different bedroom to make room for baby, do so at least three months ahead of the birth. This will give him plenty of time to adjust to his new surroundings and won’t make him feel he has given up something because of the baby.

•            Make any changes in your child’s routine well in advance of the baby’s birth so that she does not feel overwhelmed once baby arrives.

•            Explain to your child what will happen when you go into labor. Where will he stay while you are in the hospital? If a friend or relative is coming to stay with your child while you are away, have them come stay for the night a week or two in advance.

•            Reflect on your older child’s first year of life by showing photographs of her at the hospital, getting her first bath, sitting in her high chair, etc.

When having the baby shower, small, age appropriate, personalized gifts for the siblings may be the trick to help smooth the way for that exciting day. A big sister might like an I’m the Big Sister Rhinestone Tee Shirt, or a book such as, The Super, Incredible Big Sister Personalized Children’s book may fit the bill. For the brother, a personalized Batter Up Baseball Picture Frame or his own Who loves me? Personalized Children’s Book. With these personalized gifts you can show your child how important they are to the process, while reassuring them that they will not be left out or forgotten once their new sibling arrives.

What a great way to kick off Kid Inventors Day, today, 1/17 with a personalized Doodlebugz Crayon Keeper or a Doodlebugz Crayon Traveller. A piece or two of paper and let the next Picasso spout their wings!

It’s the holiday time.  A time not only to give presents to friends and family, but a time to give back to the community.  While some people enjoy volunteering their time, other people are happy to donate money to a worthy cause.  Unsure of where to give or what project to support?  The Stork Store recently found an innovative charity called DonorsChoose.org.

DonorsChoose.org is an online charity that makes it easy for anyone to help students in need.  According o their website: Here’s how it works: public school teachers from every corner of America post classroom project requests on DonorsChoose.org. Requests range from pencils for a poetry writing unit, to violins for a school recital, to microscope slides for a biology class.

Then, you can browse project requests and give any amount to the one that inspires you. Once a project reaches its funding goal, we deliver the materials to the school.

You’ll get photos of your project taking place, a thank-you letter from the teacher, and a cost report showing how each dollar was spent. If you give over $50, you’ll also receive hand-written thank-you letters from the students.

At DonorsChoose.org, you can give as little as $1 and get the same level of choice, transparency, and feedback that is traditionally reserved for someone who gives millions.

Take a peek a the website: www.donorschoose.org today and see if you can find a project that is close to your heart.  Donate today and send us a copy of your confirmation.  The Stork Store will send you back a $5 coupon to our store.  Call it a little Karma.  If you do good, good will come back to you.  Happy Holidays from The Stork Store.

Are you looking for perfect personalized gifts for the Holidays?  The Stork Store has a large selection of gifts from piggy banks to step stools that are still available for holiday delivery.  All of our gifts are personalized with the child’s name and a special design.

Order by tonight, December 14th for guaranteed Christmas delivery using ground shipping. Express delivery deadline is Friday, December 16th.

Be sure to “like” us on Facebook to receive special discounts available only to our Friends.  Happy Shopping!

Anyone can be a babysitter, but not everyone can be a great babysitter.  To be a super babysitter that parents wants to hire, there are a few easy rules to follow.  If you follow these easy tips to be a great babysitter, parents will be knocking at your door every Saturday night.  Not only will you make some great “kid” friends, but you will be earning your spending money for the week.  Here are the babysitting tips that parents wish every sitter knows.

1. Arrive on Time/Be Ready for Pick up:  Parents are usually running on a tight schedule to either make a dinner reservation, movie show time or meeting.  Please don’t keep the parents waiting.  If you are driving to the house, arrive a minute or two early so the parents don’t worry.  If they are picking you up, be ready by the door.  When they beep, you will already have everything you need by the door so you can grab your stuff and go.

2. Be Friendly and Social: Parents usually have a few people on their babysitting call list.  To be the first one called, be social and engaging.  Talk to both the parents and the children and show them how much you enjoy their company.  Engage in conversations and be relaxed around the parents (even if you have to fake it!).  It is always awkward when the babysitter is quiet and seems to be waiting for the parents to leave.

3. Engage the Children When You First Walk In: Whether you realize it or not, parents are observing how you interact with their children from the moment you walk in the door.  Go right over to the children and talk with them.  Ask how their day was or what the children would like to play.  Parents want to feel that they are leaving their children with a fun and playful babysitter, not one that will be on their phone all night. By the way, don’t answer your cell or text when the parents are home.  It’s best to put the phone down when you are sitting, but we understand an occasional text is necessary.

4. Ask for Emergency Numbers and Plans: Be sure to have all of the phone numbers you need to watch the children.  This will include the parents cell phone numbers, doctor number and any other emergency contact the parent may have.  Double check if the children have any allergies or anything you need to be aware of medically.  If you’re not sure what time the parents are coming home, you can ask in a general manner about what time you can expect them home.  Parents can purchase babysitter pads that have most of the information already filled in.  This will make everyone’s lives easier!

5.  Schedules and Routines: Ask the parents for the children’s schedule and routines that you may need to follow.  If it’s bedtime, most children have a regular nighttime routine.  It’s easier for you and for the kids if you follow the set schedule.  Be respectful to the parents and follow the rules they’ve set out for you.  And for the first few times sitting, don’t give in to the children’s demands.  Make sure they understand that you are in charge and you make the rules when the parents are out of the house.  After you have a good relationship with the children and you understand each other, it’s easier to vary the routine in a positive way.

6. Be an Active Participant: Children LOVE it when you play with them.  If you want to be asked back as a regular babysitter.  Make your time at the house “fun”.  Turn off the TV and video games and engage in good old fashion fun.  Pull out a board game or play a game of Simon Says.  Ask the kids to show you their favorite games and activities.  The kids will love you for playing with them and beg the parents to have you back again.

7. Clean up: The most common babysitter error that grates on parents’ nerves is coming home to a messy house.  After the kids are in bed, do a quick check of the house.  Put the cushions back on the couch, clean up the toys and put away the games you played.  Most of all, put the dinner dishes in the sink.  If you want bonus points, either wash the dishes or put them in the dishwasher. Parents will be amazed when they come home and see their house is back in order.  This will get you a return visit for sure!

Extra Babysitting tips:

1. Take a CPR/First Aid Class
2. Don’t call the parents unless it is absolutely necessary
3. Prevent the kids from calling the parents unless necessary
4. Bring a fun game/toy from your house to play with the kids.  You can bring it back home and entice them with it on the next visit
5. Don’t have friends come over while you are sitting
6. Don’t spend the time on the phone/texting
7. It’s obvious, but needs to be stated, Don’t go through the adult’s personal drawers or medicine cabinet

Good luck and enjoy the babysitting experience.  Hopefully, these tips will put you on the right track to becoming an amazing babysitter!

Celebrity moms and every day moms continue to agree that the Personalized Initial Name Necklace still ranks as their top jewelry pick.  From Sandra Bullock to Nicole Richie, moms everywhere continue to sport the personalized necklace.  The coin necklace is an individual circle with either one initial or the full child’s name stamped in the center.  Moms have been seen wearing a single coin to several coins depending on the number of children they have or if they’ve included their spouse on a coin.

The simplicity of the design makes the personalized necklace a great Christmas gift or Mother’s Day Gift.  The coin is created out of sterling silver or gold and can be further personalized by adding birthstones for each child.  We carry a large selection of personalized coins to fit every personality and style.  Click to shop our full line of hand stamped personalized name necklaces.

You were up early on Black Friday, shopped local on Small Business Saturday, and now you are ready for Cyber Monday.  Get those fingers ready and grab the mouse.  Click on over to The Stork Store on Facebook and “like” us for a special coupon code.  We will inbox you with a $5, $10 or $15 coupon code. Don’t forget to order soon, our deadlines are quickly approaching on many products.

Good morning, today is Small Business Saturday.  In case you haven’t heard of it, Small Business Saturday is a movement to support the small businesses in your local area.  Hundreds of organizations around the country have joined together to declare the Saturday after Thanksgiving the official Small Business Saturday.  Started last November 27, 2010, people are encouraged to go out on one day and shop at their favorite local business.

Here at The Stork Store, we are offering a special one day coupon in support of this special day.  Enter the code: SBS2011 for 15% off your entire personalized gift purchase.  Shop now for your favorite personalized gifts for the holidays.  Our favorites still remain the personalized mom coin name necklace to celebrate motherhood, the name puzzle stools, personalized piggy banks and so much more.  We’ve added hundreds of new personalized baby gifts and children’s gifts for you to enjoy.

Be sure to enter the code: SBS2011 for the special discount.  Happy Shopping!

There is nothing more satisfying than taking a great family picture together.  It takes a bit of work and coordination on the part of the photographer and the family, but the results will make it all worthwhile.  Here are a few suggestions to help you create the best family portrait.

1. Coordinate the outfits
Pictures always look better when everyone is dressed in the same color palette.  Choose from a selection of fall colors such as maroons, browns, and dark greens or go with a lighter spring mix of pastel colors.  Be sure to mix it up a little and have fun with the colors.  Everyone doesn’t need to wear the same colors or same style of clothing.  Have some people in solid color shirts and others in patterns.  The men can wear pants and have some of the women in dresses.  It will add texture to the picture and create interest.

2. Stand close together for group shots.
To create a warm and loving picture, have everyone stand close together.  It may feel uncomfortable to some family members, but open white spaces between people will look worse.  Try standing at an angle instead of directly facing the camera with shoulders overlapping.  Move the taller people to the back and center to create a triangle effect.  Add a chair if necessary for Grandma and Grandpa and have everyone circle around and behind the chair.  This picture should bring back good memories of a happy family with everyone close together.

3. Stay relaxed and go for spontaneous shots
Take the posed pictures early and get them out of the way.  They are great shots to have, but they may not end up being the favorite shots.  Once everyone is warmed up, allow for a little freedom with the pictures.  If it is teenager, try taking the pictures in her room where she is comfortable.  With little kids, put them in a playroom or outdoors and let them act natural.  A natural shot will capture the person’s true essence and not an awkward posed shot.

4. Vary the settings
A good photographer will keep everything running smoothly and change the scenery often.  This way, no one gets bored and there are always new poses to try.  Start with the family photo outdoors and slowly move around the yard or setting for different backgrounds and props such as a rock or a set of steps.  Move the photographer indoors if the lighting is good for an added element of composition.

5. Real smiles or no smiles
Most people think a great family picture means everyone is smiling and looking at the camera.  Ask your friends what their favorite photo is and guaranteed it’s the picture where the person looks natural and typically isn’t looking in the camera. Don’t be afraid to look off in the distance during a shot or hold back the posed smile.  Hopefully the photographer has a few funny jokes or phrases that will capture a genuine smile during the shoot as well.

Now that you have great family pictures, be sure to frame your favorite family photograph or create your holiday card. With so many designs out there, you are guaranteed to find the right picture holiday card to showcase your family. Visit The Stork Store to see our large selection of Photo Gifts at special Holiday prices.