When children struggle with sleep, it can be a challenging time for parents. Here are some common struggles that parents face:

1. Lack of sleep: When a child has trouble sleeping, it can result in sleep deprivation for the parents as well. This can lead to feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and decreased ability to handle the demands of parenting.
2. Guilt: Parents may feel guilty for not being able to help their child sleep or for resorting to sleep training methods that they don't feel comfortable with.
3. Frustration: Dealing with a child who has trouble sleeping can be extremely frustrating, especially if the parent has tried everything and nothing seems to work.
4. Difficulty with daily routines: Sleep deprivation can impact daily routines, making it harder to get through the day and complete tasks effectively.
5. Relationship strain: When one or both parents are sleep-deprived, it can lead to increased stress and tension in the relationship.
6. Concern for child's well-being: Parents may worry about the long-term impact of poor sleep on their child's health and development.

If you are facing sleep struggles with your child, it's important to reach out for support. This could be in the form of seeking advice from a pediatrician, joining a support group, or talking to a therapist. Remember, you are not alone, and with the right resources and support, you can find a solution that works for your family.

Here are some tips for babies and toddlers based on the 5 S's (swaddle, side/stomach position, shush, swing, suck) for soothing:

1. Swaddle: Swaddling can help calm a fussy baby by providing a secure, cocoon-like feeling. Make sure the swaddle is snug but not too tight, and be mindful of your baby's startle reflex.
2. Side/Stomach Position: Holding your baby in a side or stomach position can help soothe them and can also be beneficial for digestion. However, always place your baby on their back for sleep to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
3. Shush: Making a shushing sound can mimic the sounds of the womb and can be calming to a fussy baby. Try using a white noise machine or your own voice to shush.
4. Swing: Gentle swings or swaying can help soothe a fussy baby by mimicking the motions of being carried.
5. Suck: Providing a pacifier or allowing your baby to suck on a finger can help soothe them and can also calm a gassy belly.

It's important to note that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Try different techniques to see what works best for your little one, and don't be afraid to ask for help from a pediatrician or lactation consultant.

The "terrible twos" is a term used to describe the stage of development in which a child begins to assert their independence and experience tantrums and other challenging behaviors. This stage can be difficult for both children and parents, but it's not necessarily "terrible" for everyone. The level of difficulty can vary greatly depending on the individual child and the parenting approach. Some children sail through this stage with ease, while others experience more intense behavioral challenges. Ultimately, every child is unique, and the "terrible twos" can vary in severity and duration.

Here are some tips for surviving the "terrible twos":

1. Maintain a consistent routine: Children thrive on routine, so try to establish a predictable daily schedule to help them feel secure.
2. Set clear boundaries: Children need to understand what is expected of them, so make sure you have clear rules and consequences for misbehavior.
3. Offer choices: Giving children options can help them feel like they have control and can reduce tantrums.
4. Validate their feelings: Let your child know that it's okay to feel frustrated, angry, or sad. Empathy can go a long way in reducing tantrums.
5. Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behavior and praise your child for their efforts, no matter how small they may seem.
6. Take breaks: Taking time out for yourself can help you stay calm and maintain perspective during difficult moments.
7. Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out to family, friends, or a therapist for support during this challenging time.

Remember, the "terrible twos" is just a stage, and it will pass. By maintaining patience and consistency, you can help your child navigate this time with ease and emerge as a confident and independent individual.

In this episode we discuss each of our Christmas traditions and how we plan to implement them within our "new" family.  The holiday season doesn't have to look exactly the same as it did when you were growing up. Let's be intentional about the traditions we want to keep, the ones we  want to thank and let go and the new traditions we will implements in our "new" family.

Join our digital "casita"

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- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela

In this episode you'll understand why YOU are the best language teacher for your child and how you can start using the target language during your daily routines, even if you only speak one language!  Additionally, we will share a free resource that will help you start speaking Spanish with your child today.

Links from today's episode:

Join our online community

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- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela

Potty training or Toilet Learning can be an intimidating endeavor, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we will discuss our experience with potty training and how we managed to help our son learn how to use the toilet at 15 months.  We will discuss signs of readiness, tools and strategies to make your toilet learning experience less overwhelming.

Links from today's episode:

- Book for parents: Oh crap, potty training
-Books for kids:
     Potty/Bacinica by Leslie Patricelli
     Diapers are not forever/Los pañales no son para siempre
     Mi bacinica y yo

Underware:
boys
girls

Potty chairs:
Summer My Size 
Baby bjorn
Munchkin sturdy potty seat

2 step stool for kids

Connect with us on social media:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela

Are you drowning in toy clutter? In this episode we will share how we tame the toy clutter while helping our children develop their focus and concentration. Implementing a toy rotation system will foster a sense of order in your child and create a more harmonious environment for the entire family.

Connect with us on social media:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela

In this episode we will discuss our bilingual family journey. You'll hear how our plan changed along the way and how we've been able to foster both languages (English and Spanish) in our home. Our hope is that this episode will empower you to become a bilingual family even if you only speak one language.

Links from today's episode:

 Routines PDFs

Connect with us on social media:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela

Raising bilingual children can be a challenge, thats why we have Cereal Dates, where we discuss our parenting journey and grow as a bilingual family. If you are passionate about bilingualism, child development, Montessori and all things parenting, join us. We will share our best parenting tips while enjoying a bowl of our favorite cereal.

Connect with us on social media:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilingualfamily/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BilingualFamily/

Thank you for being with us!

Con amor, 
Jon and Daniela