You may recall a time when your child was a baby, content in the nursery without shedding a tear. However, the transition to kindergarten or school can now be a stressful situation for both the child and the parent. This doesn’t signify a regression in your child’s education or development. Rather, it indicates that the child now comprehends that their parents, upon leaving, do not vanish but will return at an unknown time, causing significant uncertainty and distress.

Separation anxiety is a developmentally normal stage in a child’s life that appears from 6 to 8 months of age. This type of anxiety serves an important adaptive function, helping the child keep their parents close and thus ensuring protection against potential external dangers. In earlier times, children with separation anxiety had a higher chance of survival. Today, this anxiety is part of expected child development. However, in some cases, the anxiety becomes severe and begins to interfere with daily childhood activities, such as separating from parents to go to school and make friends.  

The Role of ‘Object Permanence’ in Separation Anxiety

It’s crucial to note that ‘object permanence’ in children begins to develop gradually and reaches its peak between approximately 16 and 24 months. Until then, they do not understand that objects or people exist even though they cannot see them. It is at this point that separation anxiety appears. When this behavior takes hold, we encounter separation anxiety disorder. This fear is no longer of an evolutionary type, and the affective bond comes into play, along with the type of attachment that the parents have established with the child.

A little concern in the child at the separation from their parents is normal. As adults, it’s important that we understand why our child feels this way and be patient with them. At these moments, saying “Stop crying, it’s only going to be a little while that we will be away”, will not help the child. It’s important to validate their emotions and how they feel.

Strategies to Overcome Separation Anxiety

Separation from attachment figures is healthy. For children with separation anxiety, it should be done progressively and initially with the same person, then expanded.

• To overcome separation anxiety, children must feel safe at home, trust people other than their parents, and trust that their parents will return. It’s necessary to prepare the children before the separation occurs and to react with understanding, patience, and confidence, not to mock or show annoyance.
• Some children just need to know that you are there and accessible. Very often, all they need is to feel safe, and all they want is love and comfort.
• It’s important to return when you’ve told your child that you will. It’s also important to explain that unforeseen events exist and that sometimes we can be delayed because there was a traffic jam, or we had to leave work later.
• Employ explanations that are easily comprehensible for the child. For instance, rather than using abstract terms such as, “I will return at 5:00 pm”, you could say, “I will be back after you’ve had your snack.” This approach makes the concept of time more relatable and less daunting for the child.

In Conclusion: Empowering Your Child to Navigate Separation Anxiety

Understanding and managing separation anxiety is a crucial part of your child’s development. It’s important to remember that this is a normal stage in their growth, and with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, it can be effectively managed.

By providing a secure environment, fostering trust in others, and ensuring your child that you will return, you can help alleviate their anxiety. Remember to use explanations that are easily understandable for your child, making abstract concepts more concrete and relatable.

As parents, our role is to guide our children through these challenging moments, validating their emotions and providing them with the tools they need to cope. With time and consistency, your child will learn to navigate these situations with confidence and resilience. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Stay patient, stay consistent, and most importantly, stay supportive. Your child is learning and growing, and with your help, they will successfully navigate the journey of separation anxiety.

Stories about Fears and Anxiety

Teju’s Shadow

Teju is afraid… until his mother shows him how to conquer his fears.

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Under My Bed

There’s a tiger under the bed! Luckily Mum knows just what to do…

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PLUGHOLE!

Charlie is terrified of falling into the PLUGHOLE… until one day, he has to go down and face his fears.

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Lions Are Always Brave

All lions are brave! Or are they…?

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This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post Empowering Your Child to Navigate Separation Anxiety first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Timing the Announcement

If your children are young, it’s wise not to disclose the moving plans too soon, especially if you haven’t yet found a suitable home. Time is an abstract concept for young children, and the prospect of a move can make them feel insecure. Even if the reason for the move is negative (such as a divorce or job loss), always frame the news positively. If you speak enthusiastically about the new house, your child will likely share your curiosity.

Understanding Children’s Reactions

Children may react to the news of a move in various ways. Some may regress, reverting to behaviors they’ve previously outgrown. Others may become rebellious or irritable without a clear cause and effect. Some children may express their anger towards their parents, hoping to dissuade them from moving. This can result in emotional manipulation.

Children may also express their feelings through sadness and crying. The stress of moving can be so overwhelming that it may disrupt their sleep or appetite.

Easing the Transition

Here are some strategies to help ease the transition:

• Preparation Before the Move
  • Advance Notice: Inform your child of the move as the date approaches. For example, hang a calendar in their room and mark the moving date. This will help them understand how much time is left.
  • Reasons for the Move: Discuss why you’re moving and what the process will entail.
• Emotional Preparation
  • Time for Goodbyes: Make sure your child has time to say farewell to their friends and relatives. You could even organize a goodbye party.
  • Open Communication: Allow your child to ask questions and express their feelings, whether it’s sadness, anger, frustration, or even joy.
• Involvement in the Moving Process
  • Decision Making: Let them have a say in small decisions about their new home, such as the decor or their room.
  • Understanding the Process: Help them pack their belongings in boxes, and explain how they’ll find them again in the new home.
• Introducing the New Environment
  • The New Home: Show your child the new place before you move in.
  • Neighborhood Exploration: Take a walk around the area and show them places they’ll frequently visit, like the park or the supermarket.
• Managing Emotions
  • Stress Management: Avoid transferring your stress to your child. Even though moving can be emotionally draining, it’s usually an improvement. Try to maintain a calm atmosphere.
• Language Learning
  • New Language: If a different language is spoken in the new location, consider enrolling them in language classes a few months before the move.

Conclusion: Embracing Change and Building Resilience During a House Move

Experiencing life changes is a normal part of our journey, and the key to navigating these changes lies in maintaining emotional stability. With the right parental support and professional assistance when necessary, moving house can transform from a daunting task into a valuable learning experience for children.

This transition can help children develop increased self-confidence and stronger socio-emotional skills. It teaches them to adapt to new environments, build new relationships, and embrace change as an integral part of life. So, as you guide your child through this significant milestone, remember that you’re not just moving to a new home – you’re also helping your child grow and thrive in the face of change. Happy moving!

Stories About Moving House

Shaka and Mazi

Shaka has an invisible friend. Will he join him when he moves house?

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Jimmy and Steve Are Friends

When Steve moves in next to Jimmy, they quickly become great friends. And their friendship will spread through the whole neighbourhood!

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All Aboard

Nina is worried about moving cities… until her family plays a game with her!

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Katie and Her Best Friend

When Katie moves house, she has to make new friends, and discovers a dragon to keep her company.

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Article written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post Navigating the Big Move: Guiding Your Child Through the Emotional Journey of Relocating first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Preparing the Room

Before making the transition, take the time to adjust the room and select a suitable bed. A child-friendly bed that appeals to your little one can encourage them to spend time in it. Fun-shaped beds, such as bus-shaped bunk beds or car-shaped beds, are always a hit with children. Brightly colored textiles (sheets, blankets, bedspreads, duvet covers, cushions, or pillows) add a splash of color. If they feature dinosaurs, princesses, or superheroes, success is almost guaranteed!

Safety First

Safety should always be the top priority. Therefore, it’s important to install a guardrail to prevent your newly independent child from waking up on the floor.

Emotional Attachment

Some children adapt easily to change, while others may find it challenging. Generally, children tend to be attached to their crib (or their parents’ bed) until about 36 months. This attachment is not just a matter of habit; there’s a significant emotional element at play, with feelings of comfort, security, protection, and tranquillity associated with it.

Easing the Transition

Here are some simple rules to help ease the transition:

• Place the child’s new bed in the same spot where their crib used to be.
• There’s no need to start using adult sheets and blankets right away. It might be a good idea to fill this new space with their old belongings. These familiar items can provide a sense of security until they adjust to the change.
• Consider their preferences when choosing the decor and furniture for their room. Even if you love pink for your little girl, she won’t feel comfortable in her new space if her favorite color is green.
• Be patient and understanding. Allow them to get acquainted with their new bed at their own pace. Try to create positive experiences by reading stories to them in bed, for example. It might be a good idea to start with naps before expecting them to sleep alone at night.
• Some parents turn the big bed change into a celebration to motivate their child. They choose a date for the “opening” of the big bed and start motivating the child a week before. When the big day comes, they throw a party with friends, cousins, grandparents, etc.
• Finally, if you find that you’ve transitioned your child from the crib too soon and they’re resisting the new bed, don’t be disheartened or force the issue. Encourage them to give it a try, but if they remain upset after a few days, consider bringing back their old crib. Some children simply aren’t ready to make the leap to the big bed. Forcing a young child to transition prematurely can have adverse effects. It may be beneficial to take a step back and try again later. However, it’s crucial not to view the return to the crib as a regression in your child’s development. In some cases, several attempts may be necessary, and you might be surprised when your child unexpectedly starts to love their new bed!
• Remember, every child is unique and will adapt to changes at their own pace. Patience and understanding during this transition period are key.

Conclusion: Embracing the Big Bed Transition

Transitioning your child from a crib to a big bed is a significant milestone in their life and yours. It’s a process filled with mixed emotions, uncertainties, and challenges. However, with patience, understanding, and the right approach, it can also be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Remember, every child is unique and will adapt to changes at their own pace. It’s important not to rush the process or view any temporary return to the crib as a setback. Instead, see it as part of the journey. With time, your child will come to love their new bed and the independence it brings.

So, whether you’re just starting to think about making the transition, or you’re in the midst of it, keep these tips in mind. They’ll help ensure that the move to the big bed is a positive step forward for your child and the whole family. Happy transitioning!

Stories About Sleep

How Do You Sleep?

How do all the baby animals sleep? An early reader little bedtime book.

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The Three Doof Doofs

Do you hear creaky, spooky sounds in the house when you’re going to bed? Maybe it’s the Doof-Doofs!

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A Grasshopper in my Bedroom

Hudson doesn’t want to sleep in his own bedroom. But someone else does… a funny grasshopper!

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Sleep Sweetly, Little Light

A sweet lullaby, for sending tired little people to the most beautiful of dreams…

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Rosie Posie and the Garden of Delights

Rosie Posie is called by the moon to explore her magical night-time garden.

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Ten Cuddles In A Bed Are Too Many

Henrietta wants to sleep with ALL her favourite soft toys… how will she choose which ones to cuddle up with?

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This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post Transitioning to the Big Bed: A Guide for Parents first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Emotional Growth and Development

Interacting with a pet offers children a variety of experiences, triggering a wide range of emotions such as joy, frustration, and boredom. This helps them learn to recognize, control, and appropriately express their emotions. Owning a pet can instill habits in children, teaching them patience, perseverance, and resilience in the face of failure.

Pets often form strong emotional bonds with children, based on trust and mutual respect. While verbal communication may be used, children also learn to express their affection through non-verbal means such as petting and closeness. These skills contribute to your child’s ability to form positive and enriching relationships with others, characterized by respect, trust, understanding, and effective communication.

The social support provided by a pet can help individuals feel more relaxed, reducing stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation or loneliness. It can also encourage more social interactions with people.

Suggested Pet Responsibilities According to Age

Under Three Years Old

Children under three years old are not yet ready to assume any significant responsibility for a pet, as they may still perceive it as another toy. However, they can assist adults with certain tasks, such as accompanying them on walks.

Three Years Old and Above

From the age of three, children can play a more active role. They can play with the pet and help prepare its food, ensuring that it always has a bowl full of water and food.

Six Years Old and Above

From the age of six, children can also help educate the pet, keep its belongings organized, and play with it.

Eleven Years Old and Above

Children aged eleven and above can take on additional responsibilities such as walking the pet, brushing its fur, assisting with bathing, and accompanying the family to vet visits.

Regardless of the child’s age, adult supervision is crucial to ensure that both the child and the pet are safe and well-cared for.

Essential Tips for Pet Ownership

Before bringing a pet into the home, it’s important to ensure that all family members are willing to love and care for it. A pet is a living being, not a toy that can be left forgotten in a corner. Everyone must be committed to its care.

Choosing the Right Pet

When considering a dog as a pet, it’s crucial to choose the breed carefully. This ensures the pet’s temperament and characteristics align with your family’s lifestyle, helping to prevent any unpleasant surprises or situations.

Adoption as an Option

Remember, pets can be adopted as well as purchased. Numerous associations across the country offer adoption services, providing a loving home for a pet in need.

Young Children and Pets

If you have very young children, extra care should be taken to manage their interactions with the pet. It’s essential to foster a harmonious relationship between them, free from jealousy or competition. This will ensure a positive environment for both your child and your new pet.

Conclusion – The Rewards and Responsibilities of Pet Ownership

Introducing a pet into your family is a decision that comes with many considerations. It’s not just about the joy and companionship they bring, but also the responsibilities and commitments that come with them. From choosing the right breed or considering adoption, to managing interactions between young children and the new pet, every step is crucial in ensuring a harmonious co-existence.

Remember, a pet is not just another member of the family, but also a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about love, respect, and responsibility. With careful planning and consideration, owning a pet can be a rewarding experience for the whole family.

Stories about Pets

Catch That Cat!

A cat is stealing socks from a boy! Can he catch her, and get his socks back?

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A Puppy Lost in Paris

Baxter the Puppy loses his beloved Oliver in Paris. He will have to follow his nose to find him!

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Timmy and Pepe

Timmy and Pepe are best friends. They also know where all the parts of their body are!

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My Friend, Funny

Tucker finds a lizard in the garden and calls him Funny. But although he tries to be kind, Funny gets sick… a story about kindness to animals.

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Alphapets

A delightfully illustrated ABC book of cat and dogs portraits in funny rhymes.

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The Runaway Pig

Lalita the pig spots an open gate and is out before anyone knows it! What adventures will she have?

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Ollie’s Pretend Puppy

Ollie longs for a pet puppy of his own. But can he care for one? Perhaps, with a pretend puppy, he can show his parents that he can!

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My City My Dogs

An introduction to some of the street dogs of Mumbai – who they are, what they love and dream about.

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This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post The Joy and Responsibility of Pet Ownership: A Guide for Parents first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Making Swimming Fun

Children learn best through play. Hence, the most effective way to teach a child to swim is to make it enjoyable. The primary goal should be to ensure the child feels comfortable in the water and doesn’t fear it. Fear causes tension, which hinders muscle function and accelerates breathing, making it challenging to teach a child who is afraid of water to swim.

Conversely, if a child has been exposed to the pool as a baby, it will be easier for them to learn to swim when the time comes. Starting at six months of age, it is recommended that you attend the pool with your baby, either independently or by participating in aquatic stimulation classes led by professionals. Once the children are already familiar with water and enjoy it, it’s time to start working on the rest of the content that will allow them to first be autonomous and, later, to start introducing themselves to the different swimming techniques.

Understanding Your Child

Every child is unique, so it’s important to understand your child’s nature. If your child prefers to observe before experiencing something for themselves, this is the perfect opportunity to sit on the edge of the pool together and watch the other children play. If, on the other hand, the child likes to get involved immediately, you can try bringing them closer to the water.

It’s crucial not to force the child into the pool if they don’t want to. You can encourage and instill confidence, but under no circumstances should we force it because we run the risk of turning contact with water into a traumatic event. We must always follow their pace.

Familiarising with Water

Insert 4th paragraph. It’s beneficial to start by letting the child see other children swimming and enjoying the pool. It’s normal for them to cry or complain at first, but if after a few minutes, they haven’t stopped crying, it’s better to let them get out of the pool and see the adults inside to try to attract them by playing with toys that float in the water. If after four sessions the child continues crying, it’s better to take a break and return after about six months. However, it’s not advisable to let too much time pass. Ideally, it’s important to teach your child to swim before they turn six years old.

Teaching Breathing Techniques

Once babies are fully familiar with water, the first thing we must teach them is breathing. Swimming experts recommend:

• Pouring water over our heads with a bucket or watering can
• If the child approaches their mouth to the water, observe but do not prevent them from doing so. This way, the progressive covering of the respiratory tract will work voluntarily.
• Making bubbles. With the mouth and with the nose. A possible game is to try to push a doll with bubbles.
• Carrying out small dives, at a shallow depth, without abruptness making the glottis stimulus work. It’s recommended to do this type of diving only if you have previously participated in classes led by professionals, or after advice.
• Diving and trying to pick up objects from the bottom.

Discovering Flotation

The child should discover flotation through dives and movements. Gradually, they will understand the concept of floating in an enjoyable way, realizing that water pushes them upwards and doesn’t cause them to sink.

Patience is Key

Remember, there’s no need to rush. A child takes time to learn anything. They need to overcome fear, learn to balance in the water, float, breathe, and move. These skills can’t be mastered overnight.

Conclusion: The Lifelong Gift of Swimming

Teaching your child to swim is a journey that extends beyond the mere act of swimming. It’s about instilling a sense of safety, fostering a love for water, and creating countless joyous moments. Remember, every child learns at their own pace, and the key is to make the process enjoyable and fear-free.

In the end, the ability to swim is not just a life skill, but a lifelong gift that opens a world of opportunities for exploration, adventure, and fun. So, dive in, make a splash, and embark on this exciting journey with your child. Always remember, safety comes first, so never leave your child unattended in the water. Happy swimming!

Stories About Sea and Water

Saint Flipperous

A baby dolphin wonders if Santa Claus will visit them underwater. Santa Claus can’t swim… but Saint Flipperous will bring gifts for the sea creatures!

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The Sea

A little girl tells of what she does when she goes to the beach.

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Tiny Mermaid

Tiny Mermaid discovers an island of plastic that is hurting her ocean friends.

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The Bubble Mystery

Toot-Toot likes swimming in a bubbly pond… but why are there so many bubbles?

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At The Seaside

A short and sweet poem about being at the beach.

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This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post Dive into Fun: Teaching Your Child to Swim and Embrace Water Safety first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

The Importance of Routine in Toilet Training

For children, following a routine is crucial for stable emotional development. This routine provides them with a sense of security, and it’s essential to maintain it when introducing new changes in their lives, such as toilet training. On an emotional level, it’s also beneficial to pass the ‘denial or no’ stage, where children are more resistant to change, making it more challenging to teach them.

Recognizing Readiness for Toilet Training

Several signs may indicate that your child is ready to start using the bathroom and stop using diapers:

• They begin to show interest in the toilet or potty.
• They can understand and follow basic instructions.
• They feel uncomfortable and alert you if their diaper is dirty or wet.
• They stay dry for periods of two hours or more during the day.
• They have a dry diaper when they wake up from their nap.
• They can lower and raise their pants autonomously.

These signs typically begin to occur when the child is 18 to 24 months old. However, many children may still need diapers until they are 3 years old or more.

Effective Strategies for Toilet Training

Develop an Action Plan

Preparing an action plan is necessary. If your child attends nursery school, is cared for by grandparents or a caregiver, it’s important to coordinate the strategy with them. The method can be radical, replacing the diaper with underwear, which may lead to more leaks and cleaning of accidents; or mixed, alternating diaper hours with hours of underwear, especially during long car journeys, and at night, since night control is usually acquired later than day control.

Wait Until Your Child Is Ready

Your child doesn’t need to meet all the requirements on the list but keep in mind that if you start too early and they are not ready, the training to teach them to go to the bathroom independently will take longer.

Be Patient and Calm with Accidents

Many parents prefer to wait for the summer, as fewer clothes are used and unexpected accidents are less of a hassle. Regardless of the time you have chosen, be patient and never scold your little one for their accidents, as they are involuntary, normal, and part of their training.

Encourage Them Lovingly

Remain calm and lovingly encourage them to use the toilet, keeping in mind that it may take months for them to control toilet training. Remember that it has been a very short time since they have developed their muscles to contain their needs.

Celebrate Their Achievements

The so-called ‘reinforcements’ are the best gift you can give your child when they have managed to pee or poop in the toilet. Your approval and recognition are vital for them to continue their learning process and not give up or suffer a setback.

Embrace the Journey

We hope you successfully navigate this stage with your child. Even if it seems long or difficult, remember that it is a time of growth that will not repeat itself and that passes quickly.  

Conclusion: Embracing the Milestones of Growth

Toilet training is a significant milestone in your child’s life, marking their transition from infancy to toddlerhood. It’s a journey filled with trials and triumphs, accidents, and achievements. As parents, your role is to guide, support, and celebrate each small victory along the way.

Remember, every child is unique and will progress at their own pace. Patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement are key to making this journey a successful and enjoyable experience for both you and your child.

While it may seem challenging at times, these moments are fleeting. So, cherish this special time of growth and learning, as it is a phase that will not repeat itself. Here’s to successful toilet training and the many more exciting milestones to come in your child’s life!

Stories About Hygiene

Monday Undies

Ted is a big boy and wears big boy undies! But something goes wrong when the washing happens!

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Free to read on Storyberries

Smelly Simha

Simha won’t take a bath and is SMELLY! But some fleas who love to party are about to make him think twice!

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Note: This story is not about toilet training but more about hygiene and health.

Unathi and the Dirty Smelly Beast

A smelly, dirty beast is following Unathi home!!

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Note: This story is not about toilet training but more about hygiene and health.

This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post Navigating the Journey of Toilet Training: A Guide for Parents first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

To understand how a child views death, one must consider his age. Children’s understanding of death varies greatly from one year to the next during childhood:

• Children under three do not understand the limitations of space and time, and do not perceive death as irreversible.
• After three to six years old, they consider it to be a long dream and understand it without assuming that they will no longer be able to see, hear, or feel us.
• Then between six and eight, they understand the meaning well, but they often see it as something external that happens, and they find it difficult to understand that it can happen to someone close to them.
• It is from the age of approximately nine that they see it as an irreversible and universal fact.

Children sometimes show behaviors that are not related to the usual expression of sadness after a loss, such as aggression, hyperactivity, phobias, or attention deficit.

These are some aspects to consider when facing this difficult moment:

• The person who is going to be responsible for giving the news and explaining the event should be someone close to the child. It should be one of the parents or some relative, someone emotionally close to the child.
• Do not use euphemisms such as “gone far” or “is sleeping” or “lost”, as they can create confusion and even awaken unusual fears in children. Honest, simple, clear, and precise language is essential to help the child face the death of a loved one.
• It is good to openly share sadness and memories with the child, encouraging him to talk about the deceased person. Rather than avoiding sadness in the child, support should be provided in this situation.
• Allow the child to discuss the deceased person as much as they wish, without pressure. Your empathetic communication can help them understand and cope with their loss, aiding in their grief recovery.
• Stay physically (with love, kisses, hugs …) and emotionally close to your children. In this way, you give them affection, share the pain, and offer them a role model to express related emotions.
• It’s beneficial to gradually return to daily routines and norms, without ignoring the reality of the loss. Avoid making significant changes in the child’s environment, relationships, and daily activities, and keep demands to a minimum.
• Many resources can aid in understanding and accepting death. Games, for instance, can be incredibly helpful. They allow for the recreation of related situations and the creation of alternative endings. Tools like dolls, letters, and drawings can be used in these games.
• Stories are another valuable resource. They provide comfort and insight during challenging times. There are numerous stories specifically designed to aid in dealing with grief and loss. For instance, Storyberries offers a collection of free stories centered around these themes. These stories also include discussion points at the end, facilitating thoughtful conversations on the subject.
• The process of grief requires careful observation, particularly during the first year. This includes conducting interviews with caregivers or teachers, monitoring behavior and development, and observing play activities. Additionally, it’s crucial to prepare for potential reactions on significant dates, such as anniversaries.

Should the child go to the funeral?

The child should not be forced to go to the funeral of a loved one. But it is good to ensure that the child can honor or remember the person in some way and according to family and social customs (light a candle, say a prayer, prepare a scrapbook, review the photos, or tell a story). Children need to express their loss and grief.

It is important to respect the child’s feelings and wishes, but also to reassure them that they are not alone and that they can always talk to someone they trust.

The funeral can be an opportunity for children to say goodbye to their loved one in a meaningful way, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful for them. Therefore, it is advisable to plan and prepare them for what to expect.

From the age of 6–7 years, the child’s opinion can be taken into account when attending the funeral. However, if they do attend, it’s crucial to ensure that they have a supportive individual by their side who can provide comfort and can leave the venue if the experience becomes too overwhelming for the child.

The funeral can also be a chance for children to meet other relatives or friends who share their grief and support them. This can help them feel less isolated and more connected.

In conclusion, supporting a child who is grieving the loss of a loved one involves understanding their perspective of death, which varies with age, and recognizing their unique expressions of grief. It’s crucial to communicate the news of the loss honestly, encourage open discussions about the deceased, and maintain physical and emotional closeness. Resuming daily routines gradually, utilizing resources like games and stories, and observing the child’s behavior during the first year of grief are also key strategies. Decisions about attending funerals should be made with the child’s comfort in mind. With these approaches, we can help children navigate their grief healthily and respectfully.

Stories About Dying and Loss

The Very Tired Lioness

A lioness feels so tired that she is invited to follow the sun into the clouds.

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Chuchu Manchu’s Jar of Toffees

Preet loves Chuchu Manthu… but one day he is gone. How can she remember him with love?

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Circles

A mother vulture teaches a baby vulture about the cycles of life and death.

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This article was written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy. 

The post How to Support Children Who Are Grieving the Loss of a Loved One first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

If you’re considering sending your child to a daycare, it’s important to start your search early and analyze each proposal carefully. Visit the facility, request an interview with the authorities, and ensure that the hygiene and safety requirements are met.

It’s not uncommon for children to struggle with adapting to daycare, as it’s often the first significant change they experience in their lives. When children are left alone in the nursery, they may feel abandoned by their parents, experience anxiety and fear, and cry, have tantrums, feel sad, and not want to be alone.

Here are some tips to help prepare your child for daycare:

Understand Your Child

Adapting to a new person or place can be difficult for everyone, so your child needs understanding and support from you. Children can feel abandoned if they’re left in an unknown place without prior explanation, so an adaptation phase is always necessary. If you’re sending your child to daycare, attend with your regular caregiver, visit the place with your child, and provide them with phrases that make them feel safe when meeting their careers.

Establish a Small Ritual

When leaving your child in the daycare, establish a small ritual so that they feel accompanied. For example, walk with them, give them a farewell hug, and tell them that you’ll come to pick them up at the end of the morning. When you separate from your child, say goodbye with a big smile, remind them that it’s only a temporary separation, and tell them when you’ll come back.

Remain Calm

If your child has developed a secure attachment with you, they’ll be attentive to your reaction when you leave them. If you leave calmly and safely, they’ll understand that the place is approved by you and that it’s a safe place to stay. If they notice concern in you, they’ll have a hard time staying calm.

Provide Comfort

Another helpful resource may be your child’s favorite object, stuffed toy, or toy with which they feel safe. If your child asks for more affection when they’re at home or at daycare, give it to them. They need to feel that you continue to love them.

Understand and Respect Your Child’s Reactions

Don’t scold or minimize the problems your child may have in adapting to the new daycare. Tell them that you understand how they feel and that it’s normal. Explain that there’s no reason to be afraid because you’ll always come back. Talk about your experience when you were little.

In conclusion, transitioning your child to daycare is a significant step that requires careful preparation and understanding. It’s essential to choose a daycare that meets your child’s needs and provides a safe, nurturing environment. Preparing your child for this change involves understanding their feelings, establishing comforting rituals, remaining calm during drop-offs, and respecting their reactions. Remember, every child is unique and may react differently to this transition. With patience, empathy, and love, you can help your child adapt to daycare, ensuring they feel secure and happy in their new environment. This not only supports their emotional and social development but also lays a strong foundation for their future learning and growth.

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Article written by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents and families. She has been running a Psychological Center in Venezuela since 2016.  

The post Smooth Transitions: Tips for Preparing Your Child for Daycare or Nursery first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Today’s children inhabit a world loaded with stimulation and external input competing for their attention. Thanks to our screen-heavy lifestyle, the market is flooded with games, apps and shows designed to ensure that children’s brains are lively, colourful places at all times. Keeping your child perpetually entertained has never been easier. 

On the one hand, this can be seen as a positive. Developing minds need stimulation and resources to help them learn about the world that are both accessible and challenging. On the other, we adults are living through what can only be described as a crisis of focus. 

Why Concentrate?

The attention economy is in full swing. Yet adult reading for leisure has never been lower. The ability to focus on one thing at a time is vital in helping children develop the attention span they will later need to succeed in work, relationships and intellectual endeavour. 

An inability to focus can lead to a variety of undesirable consequences. For example, your child may find it difficult to retain basic information or follow simple instructions. Their short-term memory may be affected, making it challenging for them to recall what they have just learned, and they may become easily distracted. No one wants their child to be confronted with these problems when they start school. So, what can parents do to prevent these outcomes?

Activities to Improve Attention and Concentration

Create a Productive Environment

Help your child experiment with what they need to concentrate. Focus doesn’t look the same for everyone; some need total silence to get work done, others work better with music or ambient noise. 

Imposing too much rigidity on your child’s rituals can be detrimental and discourage them from actively trying to work out what’s best for them. However, setting aside a space for concentration with limited noise and distractions is an excellent place to start. 

Incorporate Breaks

You might be familiar with the pomodoro technique which encourages periods of work to be broken up into half hour chunks with short breaks in between. This method is widely believed to be the most structured way to order your time productively and its principles can also be applied to children. 

While you don’t need to be quite so prescriptive with your child, encourage them to take breaks from whatever they’re focusing on and they’re sure to come back to the task in hand feeling refreshed. After all, children are, as we well know, just as susceptible to reward systems as adults. When dealing with older children, it’s a good idea to slowly build up the length of the intervals between breaks, as, like anything, concentration is an art that requires practice. 

Help Your Child Establish a Routine

We’ve all been there; if you’re on high alert waiting for a person or event that may or may not arrive, it’s almost impossible to concentrate productively on what you’re doing. Children are the same. When a child’s routine is subject to frequent change, they are liable to spend long periods overly alert and easily prone to distraction. Knowing that they can expect a grounded framework allows them to settle into a place of uninterrupted focus. So, designated homework time is the aim of the game!

Putting a solid routine in place also involves making sure your child is getting enough good quality sleep. As you’ll know from your own experience, deep concentration is verging on impossible to achieve on a lack of sleep. Be sure your child is sleeping the correct amount of hours each night: 

– 1 to 2 year olds – 11 to 14 hours 
– 3 to 5 year olds – 10 to 13 hours 
– 6 to 13 year olds – 9 to 11 hours 

Limit Screen Usage

This won’t surprise you in the least but the detrimental effect that excessive screen time can have on a child’s ability to focus really cannot be stressed enough. The passive consumption enabled by screen-based entertainment can lead to severe underuse of active cognitive skills, making deep concentration harder to achieve. It can also affect a child’s ability to separate the real from the simulated and take away from their interest in the world around them.

Though a blanket ban on screens is generally considered unnecessary, limiting screen time in some form is highly advisable. While televisual sources can be helpful for varying a child’s input, human interaction is the optimum way for young children to learn, so, between the ages of 2 and 5, no more than one hour of screen time is recommended per day. Beyond age 5, encourage blocks of the day devoted to other forms of entertainment and play, such as those listed below. 

Play Games With Your Child

Developing focus isn’t just about learning to concentrate on undesirable tasks. Productive games can be tremendously beneficial activities in helping your child build their aptitude for clear thinking and the speed of their responses to stimuli. 

These include ‘Simon Says’, ‘Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes’ and ‘Spot the Difference’. Games like these are perfect for encouraging your child to focus and have fun along the way. What could be better than a bit of productive bonding time? 

Encourage Make-Believe

On the subject of games, encourage your child to incorporate make-believe elements into the games they play. Imaginative play is great for encouraging children to make creative decisions and allows for sustained periods of concentration – and not a screen in sight! 

Thinking ahead and coming up with independent solutions are just some of the skills that imagination-heavy games allow children to build. Plus, research shows that children who play make-believe games are more self-reliant and have more developed capacities for empathy. 

Read With Your Child

We all know it; when it comes to developing a child’s mental and intellectual abilities right from day one, there really is no substitute for reading. Reading is a way to slow the sometimes frantic pace of life with kids and allow children a form of mental stimulation that is gentle and calming. 


Even if they’re too young to fully understand or engage with the story, your child will still start to mimic your focus. It’s a great way to stimulate the part of the brain that processes language, and research has repeatedly shown that children who are read to from an early age are significantly more likely to develop a taste for reading independently as they get older. What’s not to love?

N.B. Possible ADHD

All children have limited attention spans in the early years, but if you’re concerned that your child may be showing signs of ADHD, it’s important to seek professional help. Start with a formal diagnosis and then shop around for resources providing extra educational guidance, such as private tuition and online services and forums. However, even if your child does receive an ADHD or ADD diagnosis, the above tips remain highly useful for helping them stay on top of it and tackle the day-to-day challenges they may face.

By Ella Burgess, Senior Content Writer 

The post How To Help Your Child Focus first appeared on Bedtime Stories.