Becoming Parents and Parenting Infants and Toddlers

"You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parent's will always wave back." -William D. Tammeus

This chapter covers how a child comes into the world, from being an infant and through the process of growing into a toddler. The changes that a child goes through during that time, are not comparable to any other time in a person's life. Becoming a parent is one of the most memorable, enjoyable and scary experiences a person can go through.

The beginning of the chapter discusses the importance of a mother's prenatal care and how it can affect the growth of a child. If there are complications with a woman during her pregnancy and they aren't treated, they can have a lasting impression on a child and the mother in care.

I remember the day that my son was born, actually at midnight November 2nd, 2010. I remember being so exhausted but that the moment the nurse placed him on me, I wasn't tired anymore. This action is noted as Kangaroo Care in our textbook. I'll never forget that feeling. I remember being so scared that I wouldn't know what to do and how to make sure he had everything he needed. I've made it through that stage and now he is almost considered a toddler. I can't believe it!

The day I had my little one, life seemed to fly by. I can't seem to keep up!

Everyone has their own ideas and views on how to raise their children, even from day one. One of the first and most important decisions you make is whether you will formula feed or breastfeed. From personal experience, breastfeeding is one of the hardest  and time-consuming actions possible but I felt it was important.

Kangaroo Care - Using a mother's body tempurature to help regulate a newborn's health, especially if born premature.





Time Well Spent  

See tiny fingers and tiny toes,
Bright baby eyes, cute baby nose;
Hear baby gurgles and baby sighs,
As Mom and Dad sing lullabies.

Life is changed, but that's okay;
It's fun to spend glad hours each day,
Taking time for all the good
That comes along with parenthood.

 -Joanna Fuchs   

Becoming parents can be one of the most difficult stages in a person's life but it has to be one of the most important and memorable as well. I know I can't imagine life being any different.