Former Tamagotchi addicts can find a new way to challenge their parenting skills without making a real baby. Images: Parenting with Eccky

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Have you ever experienced getting an invitation to a birthday party of your beloved 2-year old niece or nephew and do not know what to give? The moment you step into the toy store you find yourself in the midst of fascinating toys and you just can’t decide which one to pick.

Well, if you have, then I’m sure that these five tips will be a big help to you in choosing the best toy to give — toys that are fun but still educational.

Tip number one is to be sure that you are buying a toy that really is for a toddler. Sometimes we may over-estimate them and treat them like bigger children.

But no matter what many may think, you should still buy a toy that fits in the age range of a toddler. If you buy a toy that isn’t, there is a large possibility that the child wont like it. Also, try not to buy toys with detachable parts because the child might swallow it.

Tip number two is to choose something that will help the child build abilities or skills that aid them, when they grow up, in their academics. Remember that a child will be at his or her best when he or she is open to letters, numbers and sounds at a young age.

So that the child will be interested, you can look for blocks, books, flashcards or puzzles with bright colors. Some toys can even talk to children. These kind of toys are a big help to the children.

The third tip is to make sure that the child as well as the parent will like it. Look for something like a book. You can easily spot toddler books because they are usually made from cardboard and are colorful.

Some books have sounds and they recite nursery rhymes. Some have pop-ups and fur for the kids to touch. It is better for parents to read to their child, to show the child that learning is very much important.

Fourth is not to be carried away. Remember that giving the biggest and best gift isn’t the most important part of a present. Choose something that won’t empty your pockets but will still fill the happiness of the child. Give a gift that will help them in learning at the same time be enjoyable.

The last tip is to always be creative. When you shop for the toy, think of something original yet not too weird.

In short, when you are choosing a gift in a toy store, remember that the toy you are about to give should be creative and interesting. Remember that it should fit the age of the child. Just don’t forget to wrap the gift, and don’t give it bare to the toddler!

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Do you know parents in blended families arugue over discipline issues? Both partners come into the marriage with their own parenting styles, and these styles can be very different. However, when the couple works together they can blend their individual styles to create the best way to correct the children. Read on to discover communication tips on how to find unity parenting step-children.

The following question is one of the most common that I get from parents of blended families.

Question:

My wife and I have been married for two years. She has a son by a previous marriage. We argue frequently about how to discipline him. I think she is way too lenient and she thinks I am too strict. How do we resolve this?

Answer:

This is a common scenario. One of the most important principles is to present a united front to the child. Any disagreements you have about disciplining the child should occur behind closed doors, not in front of the child.

Try to negotiate and find a common ground before the discipline is given. Remember your spouse is not the enemy; you are parenting partners. As a couple, you may want to read some books on discipline together. This may help you come to an agreement on how to handle discipline issues.

There may also be underlying issues contributing to your disagreements. For example, the lenient parent may be feeling guilty about his or her previous divorce.

On the other hand, the stricter parent may be insecure in establishing his or her authority. He or she may think that by being overly strict that they can gain better control over the children.

If you are continuing to fight over discipline issues, then consider seeking professional counseling.

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