On London: Zeeg Baby | Venue: Zeeg Baby Children’s Boutique
Paper Flower Backdrop: Heavenly Creations by Rita | Photography: Indy Fitzgerald
Watching London grow into a little person and form her own personality and opinions has really led me to reflect on this past year and a half. It has always surprised me how people say she is such a happy baby. Aren’t all babies? If not, they most definitely should be and shouldn’t that be our number one focus as parents? Maybe we really don’t pay attention enough to what makes our kids happy. We think about their child’s success, what trophies they’ll win, and make big plans for what college they’ll go to. I, myself am so guilty of all of the that! Once upon a time, kids ran around outside without watching cartoons on iPads and iPhones; their imaginations ran wild and they made their own fun with nothing but a cardboard box. They socialized, they learned and most importantly, they had fun! In the midst of trying to be the best parents we can be, let’s not forget that childhood should be all about happiness. Read below for my tips on how to raise a happy child.
- GET YOUR CHILD ON A SLEEP SCHEDULE
It is so important to get kids to bed on time every night. When children are overtired, they become cranky and upset. Getting them to bed on time each night is so important for having them feel well-rested and ready to take on the new day. - SET MEAL TIMES
No matter what your personal plans are for dinner whether it be a fancy holiday dinner at a relative’s house or a nice meal out, don’t make your child wait to eat past their normal mealtimes to participate. Well-fed kids are calm, satisfied and happy. Our new thing is to feed London before we actually get to our event and if she wants to nibble while she is there, then, great. - SCHEDULE PLAYTIME
Set apart some time each day for unstructured play for your children. Playing is good and important for child development, self-confidence, creativity, imagination and emotional strength. Children who are given the opportunity to play each day are more cheerful and carefree. - ALLOW THEM TO EXPRESS EMOTIONS FREELY
Sometimes it is hard to remember that kids are just that- kids. It’s especially difficult when it seems like they have been possessed and are throwing an uncontrollable temper tantrum in the middle of the grocery store. Instead of trying to shush or shame them, its best to just let them be. Our children have feelings and emotions and don’t have the option of calling a friend and “talking it out.” Although, dealing with a temper tantrum sounds bloody awful at the moment, it is better than dealing with an adult child with emotional issues that could lead to a plethora of other problems from depression and anxiety to eating disorders. Listen when your child is trying to express themselves. Always reassure and encourage them and work toward making a connection with them when they are emotional; It is the best way to build an honest relationship with them and helps build their self-confidence and overall happiness. - LOVE THEM UNCONDITIONALLY
No matter what your child does- it is beyond crucial to show them your undying love and support. This leads us to raising secure, confident and trustworthy adults that aren’t afraid to take healthy risks or chances. When our children know that we will always be there for them, they aren’t afraid to grow, learn or make mistakes. This leads us to raising perfectly imperfect adults that are free to dream, accomplish and succeed. Do all of the above and watch your kids smile!I just love these photos of London from a few weeks ago when she was the youngest model in a fashion show for Zeeg Baby Couture, a chic children’s boutique that specializes in custom, hand-crafted clothing. Nick and I had loved watching her run down the runway, having so much fun with the other little girls! It was such an amazing moment for us to watch her shine like the little star she is! Keep shining, my love!
How do you focus on making your child happy? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
11 Comments
I can definitely attest to the importance of a set sleep schedule. My children aren’t naturally long sleepers and it was a struggle getting them to sleep on a schedule but it was and continues to be so worth it.
Your little girl is so adorable!
Brandy
Your baby girl is absolutely precious! 😀 I definitely agree with number 4 though. Even though my parents were understanding, I still had other family members who made me feel like something was wrong with me for being sensitive and showing emotion, which of course resulted in emotional problems later on in life. I’m glad that you’re able to show your sweet girl how loved and valuable she is <3
I totally agree with your list. Not having enough sleep for children turns out into a disaster. Allowing them to express emotions freely is good but sometimes What I do is teach them to control their emotions. I don’t want their emotions to control them.
Cutest baby and great insight!
I agree with you. It’s so important to have set naps and meal times. Heck, I still make my teen go to bed at the same time every night. Routine is so important.
Righ on, especially the meals and sleep. We don’t keep a set schedule with Naomi, but we do allow her to sleep and eat on demand, so if she is tired she sleeps, if she is hungry she eats. We read a book called My No No No Day and it is so wonderful. It reminds us that it is okay to have a bad day. Thanks for the article!
Your little girl’s so adorable. 🙂
Spend quality time as much as possible.
Before you even know it, she’s grown so fast!
#5 is the best tip of all. Without this, the other 4 tips won’t work. Amazing tips you have here nonetheless!
This fashion show is just darling! I love the idea of baby couture!
She is a natural! It looks like she loved it, how cute!
Love this post. My dad has always said happy kids are kids that have their needs met (sleep, eating and love). Thanks for your thoughts. I totally agree!