Indianapolis Recorder, Indianapolis, Marion County, 3 September 2004 — Page 26

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C SECTION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2004

PARENTING TIPS FROM THE DESK OFJAPA Advice [or parents of toddlers Growing and moving: • Toddlers learn to do an enormous number of things in a very short space of time. They will start to walk with feet a little apart to remain steady at first, to run - beginning awkwardly - to kneel and to climb on stairs. • As they develop better muscle control they enjoy more climbing and can manage a low slide and swing. They can push, pull and jump, and may be starting to throw and kick balls. • Toddlers can build towers of bricks and learn balancing. Their hands become better at holding and moving things and they may be able to use plastic scissors under supervision to practice cutting out - don’t expect them to be good at it just let them enjoy snipping out rough shapes. • They enjoy moving to the sounds of music and rhythms and joining in with shakers and drums. • They can sometimes also dress themselves but will still need your help and supervision. • Give lots of encouragement and don’t worry too much if things aren’t done “properly.” Play: • Toddlers learn through play. Play is often hard work but can have many rewards for them and you. • Look at where, how and with what your toddler is playing. Watching them at play gives you a chance to slow down and witness the delight of playing. • As your toddler copies you in play, you help them develop many new skills. • Toddlers are curious. They explore by putting in and pulling apart, pushing, poking, dropping and throwing. • Make sure play is safe. • Give toddlers lots of space. Let them scatter their play materials. Constant tidying up is exhausting for you and can interrupt them. • All play is worthwhile, even when it looks like a huge mess. It’s the effort and the doing that is important - not what it ■looks like at the end. • Toddlers have a short attention span so don’t expect them to stick with one thing for too long. • Playing is a learning opportunity and playgroups and toy libraries can help. Moving to bed: • Around 18 months old many toddlers will try, have tried or be skilled at climbing out of their crib. This is the time to think about a new bed. It is a big step for them and you. • If you have a new baby on the way you could try the toddler in a youth bed a couple of months before the arrival. You don’t want the toddler to feel like the new baby is stealing their crib. • When your toddler makes the big move you need to be quite clear and firm about the rules and routines you have for bedtime, staying in bed and returning to bed. Be consistent and make it clear that beds are for rest and sleep. • Don’t make a game out of getting in and out of bed. • Make going to bed enjoyable without makingyour child too excited. Take the time to sing a song, read a book, share a special moment together and \ then say goodnight.

Recorder sales manager LeRoy Lewis married Maggie London at Mt. Paran Baptist Church Saturday. Lewis lights a candle with his wife during the candle-lighting ceremony.

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The newlyweds follow an African tradition by jumping the broom, signifying the sweeping away of their pasts.

Lewis takes full advantage of the pastor's command to “kiss the bride." (Photos/J. Hurst)

Tony Allen finishes the final stage of the obstacle course to earn first place in the Velcro Olympics.

Jazzy Carroll (left) and her cousin Maya Carroll have a good time dancing to the music.

Members of A Few Good Men sponsored the party, providing free food, school supplies and entertainment. (Photos/J. Hurst)

White Nites

Left to right: Thomas J. Griffin, Carol Clark, Debra Day and Victor Day, members of Ambience, sponsored the White Nites of Summer, a social gathering on the canal at the Indiana History ,, Center.

Karen Beamon makes sure the hors d'oeuvres are cooked and ready to serve.

Newlyweds Harold and Aril Bell enjoy each other’s company and the party. (Photos/J. Hurst)

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