toddlerroadmap.com

THE TODDLER ROADMAP SERIES 2: Episode 20 – Roots, Shoots Buckets & Boots: Gardening with Toddlers

"Everything you need to raise a happy, confident, resilient toddler 
undamaged by living through a pandemic!"

Show notes:

In this episode we talked about what EFT is, facts about EFT and the uses of EFT. We also talked about how tapping can help your toddler and shared a script for reducing a temper tantrum. Different approach to make your child behave well other than saying "NO"- because saying "No" sometimes doesn't make any difference.

In this episode:

  • Adding The Amazing Benefits of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to Your Parenting Toolkit. 
  • ​The Benefits of Gardening with Toddlers
  • ​Using Distraction in Your Discipline 
  • ​Great Books for Talking About Big Emotions with your Toddler
On the Parentverse: Sue Atkins in Conversation with Amy Livingsone and Julie Wilson from Cheeky Chompers, as seen on Dragon’s Den. Award Winning Teething Dribble Bibs, Neckerchews, and The New Baby Tooth Care Hub.

Emotional Freedom Technique 

What is EFT?
Emotional Freedom Technique is the new therapy for the 21st century as it is a very safe way to get rid of anxiety, stress, and feelings of guilt and overwhelm that lots of parents suffer from and it’s brilliant for helping toddlers calm down and relax after or during a tantrum.

It is based on tapping different Chinese meridian lines with your fingers – and you’ve probably heard lots of people talking about tapping their problems away.

You may have seen Paul McKenna on British television demonstrating how tapping various points on your body can alleviate stress, anger and phobias. He has also shown how it can treat weight loss, smoking and other addictions and I first became impressed with it through regularly assisting Paul on his Easy Weight Loss Seminars.

Or you may have heard Chris Evans using it on his BBC Radio 2 Drive Time Show to enthusiastic responses from his listeners or seen Whoopi Goldberg on the Jonathan Ross’ Show as she used it to cure her fear of flying recently to come to London to promote “Sister Act” in the West End. (You can watch her tapping video on Youtube)

Tens of thousands of people worldwide have already used EFT to conquer their anger, increase their energy or let go of negative feelings. It has also been used to great effect in treating trauma victims in Kosovo, Iraq and Uganda and after natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and during the pandemic.

As an EFT Parenting Specialist, trained in the Callahan Techniques, I use it with parents and children as another tool in my coaching toolkit as it is a completely safe way of eliminating stressful or anxious feelings with no side effects.
Here are some facts about EFT or Emotional Freedom Technique:
  • it is extraordinarily powerful: most people using the correct tapping algorithms receive nearly immediate relief from their distress
  • ​it has no adverse side effects
  • ​it doesn’t require you to discuss your problems, worries or anxieties with anyone, something that discourages many parents from seeking help in the first place
  • ​it is extremely quick, with most treatments needing no more than 5 minutes!
As Paul McKenna is quoted as saying:
 When I first read about tapping, I had no idea of the positive effect it was going to have on my life and the lives of so many people that I have come into contact with. I have been practicing tapping and evangelistically spreading the word of this wonderful technology now for several years and I never cease to be amazed by the powerful effect that it has upon people to change their lives for the better. 
Most people are astonished at the fast results and rapid relief from tapping out their negative feelings – so relax, get curious and explore the limitless uses for EFT
EFT can help with:
  • OCD
  • ​Phobias
  • ​Toddler Tantrums
  • ​Bedwetting
  • ​Fear of spiders
  • ​Fear of the dark
  • ​Fear of needles and the dentist
  • ​Fear of flying
  • ​Anxiety about starting a new childcare arrangement
  • ​General phobias
You can watch my Youtube Video to see how it works here on:

How Tapping Can Help Your Toddler

EFT can play a major part in helping kids release fear, anxiety, trauma, and doubt in a matter of minutes. EFT often produces results a lot more quickly with children, as they don't have the same amount of emotional baggage as adults do. They're not caught up in the “how's” and “why's”, they just want to feel better.

EFT works even if you don’t believe in it, which is especially helpful for older children who might have resistance to working on issues or trying new approaches.

Along with my Award Winning 
EFT can teach kids how to manage their emotions, process events, and foster confidence and resilience.

Script for Reducing a Temper Tantrum

Say while tapping on …..
Eyebrow: It’s okay. I know it’s hard for you right now

Side of Eye: Even though you’re really upset right now, we all love you

Under Eye: Even though you’re really upset right now, you’re okay just the way you are.

Under Nose: It’s OK to feel upset

Chin: It’s OK to feel angry

Collarbone: I am a good boy/girl and Mummy loves me very much.

Under Arm: I am a good boy/girl and Daddy loves me very much.

Top of Head: I am a good boy/ girl and I’m OK.
I’ve had clients who just watch me as I tap their toddler dumbstruck, their jaws just drop in awe.

I’ve taught clients to tap out anger at leaving the park, not getting the orange cup, not getting a biscuit before breakfast – on and on ….

I’ve seen it work on nightmares, fussy eating to potty training.

It can be used on anything that you feel you’d like to tap on.

Tap and Talk Technique

A great way to start is at the end of the day before bed. This is most beneficial for younger children who might not have the capability to express their emotions or how they’re feeling.

Ask your child, “what was the best and worst part of your day?”
As these events are being recounted, you can gently tap through the points starting on the top of the head, working your way down systematically. Only light pressure and 5-10 taps on each point are needed.

This helps your child to process the events at a subconscious level and deal with the associated emotions effectively without having to “zero-in” on specific issues.
If you would like to work with me using this cutting edge, powerful & empowering tool call 01883 818329 or email me at [email protected] so we can arrange your session.
Watch my videos, listen to my MP3s and read my modules in my FULL TODDLER ROADMAP MODULE 20 around preparing your toddler for nursery, childcare, or preschool 
Put in the discount code PEANUT 25 to get a huge 25% discount on the whole 41 videos. 41 MP3s and 28 Modules of my eCourse 
I have filmed and written tips for Disney’s ‘The Gift of Play’ website. Get inspired and spark the magic of imaginative play with my tips & videos in collaboration with Disney, Pixar, Star Wars™ and Marvel.

Download & Discover ‘The Gift of Play!’ Guide

Bursting with inspirational play ideas, arts, crafts, games, activities and puzzles!

#TipsandScripts

When you're tempted to say something negative – it’s much better to reframe it into something positive so kids really hear you and can act on what you want them to do.
They’ll feel better – you’ll feel better – win – win!
How many times have you found yourself saying “No!” or “Stop that!” – and it doesn’t seem to make any difference in your child’s behaviour?

Research suggests that children will behave well when their actions are reinforced with positive attention. In fact, negative reactions may even cause the unwanted behaviour to increase!

Instead, use the following methods and simple “scripts” to easily turn negative phrases into positive statements that reinforce desired behaviour:

Maximise every opportunity to express delight. Delight is a really simple and positive expression and can be used to encourage and reinforce the behaviour you DO want to see more of in your child.
  • Top Tip: Acknowledge your child’s actions with joy in your voice and on your face and it will work wonders. 
  • Top Tip: Redirect behaviour instead of correcting. When you see your child doing something you don’t want them to do, use it as an opportunity to guide or ‘talk and teach’ them into the behaviour you want to see more of. For example, if your child draws on a wall, remind them that the wall is not a place for artwork, but that they can draw an even bigger picture on the path using chalk, or on a huge piece of paper in the kitchen.
  • Distraction is a simple strategy that’s good for situations when behaviour might be a problem. For example, this might be when your toddler is:
  • ​getting irritable
  • ​have been sitting still for a long time
  • ​are having trouble sharing or taking turns with others.
  • Top Tip: Pointing out something interesting, starting a simple game, pulling funny faces, you’ve probably come up with many tricks like these to distract your child already.
  • Top Tip: Distraction usually works. So, it’s a great choice for managing your toddler’s behaviour in many situations.

Tips for distraction

Here are distraction tips that usually work for children of all ages:
  • Give your child something else to do. Introduce a new activity, toy or game, or even show your child something new they can do with the toy they already have.
  • ​Change the scene. Put your child where they can see different things or move your child to a new spot either inside or outside.
  • ​Think ahead. Have a few ideas for fun activities. It could be as simple as planning some outside play when you can see that your child is getting bored inside.
  • ​Sing some songs or rhymes together. This can be useful when you can’t stop what you’re doing, like when you’re driving or cooking.
  • ​If you’re out and about, take some fun toys or books that you can pull out when you need them.
  • Develop a list of go-to positive scripts. Like anything, a new behaviour requires practice – even for parents! 
Here is a list of positive phrases you can use on a regular basis.
Negative Phrase
“Don’t run!”
“Stop hitting your sister!”
“Don’t touch that!”
“Stop grabbing all of the books!”
“Stop being rude!”
“You need to cooperate!”
“Pick up your toys!”
Positive Phrase
“Let’s walk so we stay safe!”
“Use gentle hands and be kind”
“Hands in your pockets, please!”
“Remember, you can choose two books.”
“I love it when you use polite words. Well done”
“You can do it – I know you can!”
“Let’s work like a team!”
This beautiful and engaging story, the first in the Bob the Bear series, is written by a former Kindergarten manager and teacher specifically to appeal to pre-schoolers. This book is a fabulous way to engage with young children, inspire them to play, and offers so many opportunities to entertain, educate and explore! With photos bringing the story to life, children will enjoy being read this story by teachers, carers, parents and loved ones.

JOIN MY PEANUT COMMUNITY

Sue Atkins Toddler Roadmap Community
My parenting community on Peanut is a chance to connect with me one on one, ask questions, find support and make friends

I do LIVE PODS – like Instagram Lives – and you can have access to me 1-2-1 over on the Peanut app for FREE 😊

Question:

Hi Sue, what age can toddlers start gardening? Maggie Denton from Derby, England

Answer:

There is no 'right' age for children to start gardening. When they are toddlers, they will naturally want to be with you outside and will join in with your activities – digging, helping to push the wheelbarrow, watering plants, adding weeds to the compost, and so on.

Growing seeds like sunflowers or cress on the windowsill are fun, or planting sweet peas – or growing and watering herbs is a lovely activity for little ones.

As children garden, they develop important fine and gross motor skills that will help them improve their academic skills such as writing, cutting and dexterity. It's a well-known fact that if you engage children in growing their own vegetables, they gain a keen interest in eating them too!

Going to the shops to pick out the herbs, plants, flowers or seeds (which also involved pushing a mini trolley around the garden centre can be very exciting for toddlers.

Start small and enjoy the joy of watching something spring into life.

Also some lovely books to read together are 'The Tiny Seed' by Eric Carle

Roots Shoots Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children by Sharon Lovejoy
Here’s an exclusive DISCOUNT CODE of 25% OFF JOINING MY TODDLER ROADMAP eTraining

Everything you need to raise a happy, confident, resilient toddler

Parentverse 

Sue Atkins In Conversation with Amy Livingsone and Julie Wilson from Cheeky Chompers as seen on Dragon’s Den:
Amy and Julie – are two mums who started Cheeky Chompers while they were on maternity leave and their babies were teething. They were constantly picking up and sterilising dropped teethers and thought ‘Why doesn’t someone invent a teether that stays attached to the baby’?

Sometimes the simplest ideas really are the best. Over nine months of long nights they put that thought into action. They designed their bibs to be the best they could be to make lives easier, super absorbent, soft, reversible and stylish designs. They sourced the best fabrics and materials, tested everything for safety and quality and they launched the World’s first chewy dribble bib, the Neckerchew, in 2013. And they haven’t looked back with an ever-expanding innovative product range!

They’re mums themselves, so they know how it feels and they really get it! All their products focus on being helpful, practical, multi-use, attachable, easy to wash or clean and most importantly stringently tested to worldwide standard.

Born in the UK, chewed around the world!

From featuring on BBC’s Dragons Den during their early days to partnering with the White Company and retailing their growing product range in John Lewis, they have come a long way since they started in 2013.

They are now an award-winning trusted global brand selling in over 1,500 retailers across 49 countries worldwide!

Pause to Ponder This Week:

How can I encourage my toddler with more joy and more positive words this week? 

Time To Take Action

Sign up to my Toddler Roadmap
My Toddler Roadmap looks at all the aspects of raising your toddler so they are not damaged by a unique time in history - living through a pandemic - & each module will help you to nurture your child’s mental health and wellbeing and this podcast is linked to my Toddler Roadmap training.

I’m going to hold your hand, support and guide you through everything you need to know about raising happy, confident resilient kids – today’s toddlers but tomorrow’s adults!
I want you to relax & have total confidence that you’ve got a parenting expert who’s got your back - showing you the way to happy, confident kids and knowing the pandemic didn’t damage your kids long term!

In my TODDLER Roadmap Course and Community I will give you the step by step guide for handling toddler tantrums and why they happen, I give you the roadmap for potty training, why kids become fussy eaters and what to do about it. I show you how to build self confidence in your toddler and explain why they say ‘why?’ all the time, I give you my parenting hacks on how to handle sibling rivalry when another baby arrives, I tell you about the importance of play and how to handle when they say ‘NO!’

I tell you how to handle whining, crying, and biting. I show you my tips for getting kids into a good bedtime routine and why that’s important. I talk about why reading with kids is so important and why singing nursery rhymes with them helps their language development. I show you how to handle night terrors and I look at the bigger picture to your parenting – not just the socks and pants of life that we all get stuck in!

So, I’m really excited to share with you my Toddler Roadmap

Check out my YouTube Channel Playlist – videos released every Tuesday and Friday

Remember, if you want to review what we’ve talked about, check out the full Show Notes

There, you can find a full article on the topic, videos that summarise the different elements and links to any tools or resources we’ve pointed out. You can also drop us a comment there and get involved in the conversation.
You can find a full article on the topic, videos that summarise the different elements and links to any tools or resources we’ve pointed out. You can also drop us a comment there and get involved in the conversation. 
To get my full advice and videos join my Toddler Roadmap

Coming up Next Week 

Coming up in Episode 21 Fussy Eaters.

It’s normal for children to be fussy eaters – that is, to not like the taste, shape, colour or texture of particular foods.

It’s also normal for children to like something one day but dislike it the next, to refuse new foods, and to eat more or less from day to day.

This all happens because fussy eating is part of children’s development. It’s a way of exploring their environment and asserting their independence. And it’s also because children’s appetites go up and down depending on how much they’re growing and how active they are.

The good news is that children are likely to get less fussy as they get older. One day your child will probably eat and enjoy a whole range of different foods. I’ll be giving you my advice on how to make sure you don’t pull your hair out at mealtimes!

Join my Facebook Group Community

I have created a private and safe space for us all – a Facebook Group called ‘Don’t Stew ~ Ask Sue Atkins’ where you can ask me anything from niggles, worries, or problems or perhaps you’d just like some new ideas or you’d like to make some new friends.

Jump on and join in – it’s free from finger pointing or tut-tting – it takes a village and we’re all in this together!
It’s like a community clubhouse – to make sure we get together to chat, laugh and support each other on the journey – so grab a coffee and let’s get social 😊
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