Free Preschool worksheets and activities

Make your writing worksheet...
http://www.writingwizard.longcountdown.com/handwriting_practice_worksheet_maker.html

Alphabet, Animals, Coloring Pages, Crafts 
http://first-school.ws/

Free printable activity worksheets
http://kidzone.ws/

Printable Preschool and Kindergarten Worksheets

http://kidslearningstation.com/

Educational Activities for Children

http://dltk-teach.com/

Alphabet Number Shape Colour Size Maths worksheets
http://fun2write.com/

http://www.nationalkindergartenreadiness.com/

My little pony coloring pages
http://www.tiji.fr/Heros/My-Little-Pony/Activites

Our VBAC Story ~~ Katie Angel

First Birth

With our first child, we were going to take the quickest birth class at the hospital to get it over with. All of the spots were filled, so we took a two-day birth class with the county and a newborn care class. After the class, although I was slightly less fearful, we felt so unprepared. The term "episiotomy" scared me even after I learned how to pronounce it. We found a 12 week series class, the Bradley Method of natural childbirth with an awesome and supportive instructor. We learned all the birth stages, I journaled my meals to get the optimal nutrition (eggs, natural vitamin C and lots of greens), and we learned all the risks and the benefits of the procedures and the drugs. We wrote our birth plan, we got all the baby gears ready, and we hired a doula to assist with the birth. We were as ready as we can be. Because it was our first birth, we decided to stay with the OBGYN group for a hospital birth and the closest hospital was 15 minutes away. It was the University Community Hospital, now the Florida Hospital. They were doctors commanding medical knowledge. We were open and went over our natural birth plan with all of the doctors. The doctor was okay with me drinking liquid at the hospital (who doesn't get thristy after a few hours of laboring). Like first time parent, we asked many questions, but one of the doctors didn't seem comfortable that we were asking many questions instead of just going along with whatever they're doing to us. That specific doctor didn't even know what is a double layer sutures as requested in our birth plan if we have to do a c-section. The doctor didn't like us wanting various birthing positions versus lying on my back. We realized that it may be an uphill battle at the hospital, but we were ready for whatever happens.

When the contraction started, first time parent mistake, in the beginning stage, we should've try to get some sleep instead of keeping track of the contractions throughout the night. It was just my husband and I. My contraction went on for two days before it was close enough for me to go to the hospital. Finally, this doula came over to our house right before we go to the hospital. We walked around and labored by the bed in my assigned room. The assigned nurse kept the hospital room dim and dark as requested in the birth plan. That OBGYN happened to be on call and he wasn't pleased that I didn't want to break my water and I didn't want to go along with a c-section only after four hours in the hospital. Even the nurse thought he was very rude to me. Although he approved of whole birth plan months before, when it was time, he said I wasn't allow to drink any liquid, only ice. Seems like bait and switch to me. It was diffcult to trust him. We were so glad we took the Bradley Method birth class. Because of our preparation, we know how to think for ourselves and how to make our decisions.

During contractions, a stranger male nurse came into the room to prepare some equipment and I was in the most vulnerable state, I felt alarmed. All those factors in this environment, I couldn't relax. My defense system was up. After that shift was over, another OBGYN came on duty. 12 hours at the hospital laboring, strong contractions without any progress, still at 6 cm! (but I guess depends on which doctor's hand you were talking about), I finally agreed to pitocin and I requested epidural to go along with that. I slepted and rested. Our baby's heart beat went down to dangerous level so the nurse had to turn down the pitocin. The OBGYN came in later and said because she was in the operation room doing a scheduled c-section, else they would've do an emergency c-section on us. Thank goodness she was busy then. The OBGYN was advocating a c-section since I was still at 6 cm instead of close to 10 cm, and for the safety of the baby. After almost three days of contractions, exhausted and I looked like a truck ran over me, in my mind c-section was the only way out, so I agreed to it. This doctor knew what is a double layer suture. The doula thought earlier the OBGYN said I was at 8 cm. It was a blur. The c-section happened so quick and we shed happy tears when we finally met Jasmine. Healthy 9 lbs 15 oz. January 2009 on the lunar day. The nurses there taught us first time parents how to take care of newborn. It was nice to have those extra hands. We asked for a lactation counselor whenever I needed help with latching or breastfeeding. Our county's baby cafe program or La Leche League would've offer similar or better breastfeeding support. I was supposed to eat soft food after a surgery, the hospital bought in a steak. I even mentioned to the nurse before that I'm a vegetarian. Good thing I wasn't hungary that first day and gave it to my husband to eat. My mom such an angel bought over home cooked meals. The hospital's bathroom was no Marriott. I thought it could have been cleaner. Also I spotted other people's blood stains in the birthing room. After we left the hospital, I had to continue to take pain medications. But right away, I developed really bad rash that I itched all over, my doctor told me to stop taking pain medications. At the hospital I was okay, my guess is that I was allergic to the generic pain medication. Between being in pain after a major surgery, still trying to learn to latch, taking care of a newborn, disappointment of a c-section, and the hormones, I was in a bad shape. I didn't get out much the first three months. I was either in pain from c-section or from latching. I almost gave up breastfeeding. Thankgoodness for La Leche League friends' support and my husband cheered me on to keep trying. Baby and I finally learned to latch properly.

Top Ten Signs Your Doctor Is Planning To Perform An Unnecessar​y Cesarean Section On You
by Jonathan Weinstein, MD, FACOG


Preparation for Second Birth

Raising a child took all of our energy, mentally and physically. Finally we were ready to give her a sibling when she was closer to two years old. That gave me time to heal. With our second baby, I knew I had to try vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). My recovery was too painful and I didn't want to go through it again. I wanted a better birth experience. Before we got pregnant, I went to see another OBGYN that came highly recommended. She was really nice and she had a good bedside manner. She said my muscle is too weak, I still leak urine easily with a sneeze. The baby was too big. Some people just not built to birth vaginally, small pelvic bone. etc. etc. etc. I researched and researched. I educated and empowered myself. I requested all of my and baby's medical records from the hospital and the OBGYN. Even though American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued less restrictive VBAC guidelines, it's not easy to find an OBGYN that support VBAC. It was nearly impossible. OBGYN can bill and earn more with c-section. Scheduled c-section is quick, while labor is takes time and unpredictable in the busy schedule. It was hard to trust OBGYN's recommendations -is it better for the patients or does it makes the doctor's life easier. Trust issue always lingered in my mind. I didn’t want to hope to get the good OBGYN on call when I go into labor. Malpractice lawsuits loom over doctors and hospitals. Hospital's system has policies and guidance to minimize those risks and maximize revenue. If you want something different, their staffs are not trained to handle it. Not all the human being is built the same. Every body is different. I sought out anyone who had a VBAC. I attended events that's VBAC related. I joined a local ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) support and facebook groups to find out who was able to have VBAC and how did they do it. I joined hypnobabies on-line discussion group. I talked to moms who had VBAC. I found youtube video clips made by moms who had VBA2C and even VBA3C. I was inspired by all of them. I saw the pattern, home VBAC with a midwife. Some people were able to have VBAC at the hospital, but some had to deal with obstacles. I had our local hospital experience and I knew what it was like. I needed to birth in various positions. I didn't like to birth under time pressure or restrictions. I know I needed positive energy and cheerleaders during contractions and in my most vulnerable position, instead of naysayers and doubters. They tell you, VBAC has a rupture risk. Labor and birth itself is a risk. C-section has a risk. Blood clot is one of the reasons. Epidural is not without risks. So in my mind, VBAC carries a risk like everything else, nothing more, nothing less. They scare you that you don't want to do VBAC.  

Home birth
I wasn't comfortable with home birth at first. But I talked with many women who had homebirth or at the birth center and heard about their experience. A mom who had the first child at a hospital, the second child at a birth center, and the third child at home, said the home birth experience was the best. Both of my grandmoms had eight children at home. They were able to do it. Generations and generations of human beings before them survived even when they were no hospital to birth in. My health was good. I was not a high risk patient. Less chance of me catching an infections or super bug at home than in the hospital. I can get home cook meals easier. I can see my oldest child whenever I like, visitation hour is anytime. Hospital has it's place. They can handle high risks patients, take care of NICU babies, and deal with emergency faster. Everyone has a reason for which path works for them.

Choosing My Team - After talking to many moms, I selected another doula and a midwife group that came highly recommended. I chose a birth team that supported me instead of doubted me. They did not disappoint. Before when I peed on the stick during checkups, the OBGYNs never said anything about the results. The midwife helped me to grow a healthy baby by letting me know if I had too much sugar or not enough of protein. I didn't know those information is available at each check up. The midwife spent time with me instead of rushing to the next patient. Not only physical state but also mental state for the well being. An OBGYN apologized to a staff that she took more than 15 minutes with me. With the midwife group, I received quality medical care that we wished all of the doctors would do with their patients. Since we took birth class a few years ago, we had to take a birthing class at the midwife's birth center for refresher. After all these birthing classes, we still learned so much from the birth center because they have so much experience with birth.

Before I was accepted, I had to go to an OB physician with hospital obstetrical privileges for the initial risk assessment. The doctor considered me a low risk maternity. Throughout my pregnancy, I was continuously monitored to see if I'm still a low risk pregnancy. Toward the end of my pregnancy, I had to get an ultrasound to check the thickness of my cervix. There are many checks along the way that can put me in the other category.

Contraction Strategies - I heard that water birth helps and eases the labor. So we reserved a water tub. It didn't do it for me and we had the water way too hot that I was passing out.  To help with pain management, we took a hypnobirth class with another awesome instructor. I listened to the CD almost everyday to calm me and bring me positive thoughts. When someone told me to call her when I'm screaming in pain, I didn't let that bother me. By listening to the CD, I brainwashed myself in a good way :) to think positive and to believe in myself. It's always good to think positive and believe in yourself :) I also listened to HypnoBabies tracks every night before I go to bed. One of the tracks really worked when I had the most intense contraction and I just closed my eyes and breathed through them. I heard from a mom that she welcomes the pain because that means the baby is on the way and she didn't have a chance to feel that the first time. Contractions are like menstrual period, just a little more intense :) Another pain management I used was to moan uninhibitedly. For me, it's easier not to care what others think or judge me while at home. Also, I was more relaxed at my own home, we have better control of who's coming into the house and the birth environment.

10 Pain Management Techniques for Natural Childbirth
http://www.theparentvortex.com/wordpress/10-pain-management-techniques-for-natural-childbirth/

Positive Energy
We didn't tell that many people that we're planning a homebirth. We did the research. It was our decision. We didn't want to debate with people why we responsible adults are deciding what's the best for us and our baby. We were ready to share the joy when the baby is here.

I read several books on natural birth to feel comfortable with natural birth. Ina Mays Guide to Childbirth and Dr. Sear's the Birth Book. To think positive, I was open to good birth stories. I avoided nightmare birthstories.

Mental Readiness 
Throughout the process, I kept going over and over in my head and wondered what went wrong the first time so we don't make the same mistake. I traced all of the steps and all of the decisions we made. I told my husband, this time around, I needed support for this and for that. We got mad at each other for what happened last time. We had to get over what happened in order to move on. It wasn't easy on our marriage but it had to be done and it was an important step to overcome. Hopes, fears, unresolved grief, self-doubts.

Baby Positioning 
Also this time, starting at the second trimester before the baby gets too big to move around, I did a lot of hands and knees on the ground (like a cat or a dog) to get the baby in the right position for easier birth. Anterior position rather than a posterior position or sunny side up. Since my toddler was making a mess on the floor after eating, I was on the floor cleaning everyday anyways. Also in this pregnancy, I was more active chasing my toddler instead of sitting on the couch watching TV. The baby was in the right position this time.

With my first pregnancy, I had an almost 10 lbs turkey. This time I went low carb all the way. I was afraid to eat any bread and rice. I ate a lot of fruits and vegetables. It wasn't easy in the beginning, but I got used to it.  Baby still ended up being 9 lbs, but I lost all the baby weight right away.

PUPPP
For me, as soon as I applied Palmer's stretch mark cream, pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) came out again, like my previous pregnancy. I immediately took dandelion root from GNC to decrease the itchness and it worked again. I must have a weak liver.

Homebirth Supply
We got the birth supply list. We got lots of disposal bed pads. I bought out all of my towels. We got paint tarp to cover the carpet by the birthing tub and under the bed sheet. Midwife came for a home visit.

Photo taken on July 4th at 2 p.m.

We didn't have a birth plan this time. We just went with the flow. With the first birth, I was trying to control it, and then lost it. This time, with experience under our belt, we were at peace with whatever is the outcome, knowing that we just have to go with the flow for birth.

My labor started on wee hours of the morning on July 4th - Independence Day. My doula came over and had me try various positions to see how the baby sits. My contraction stopped mid-day, so we decided to take a break and let it proceed naturally. I wasn't sure if I want a July 4th baby anyways :) After a night of crazy fireworks, my contractions started again on wee hours of the morning on July 5th. After bath, the contractions were still there. The contractions were getting intense. Between both pregnancies, the technology had advanced and we had the iPhone contraction timer app this time. Much easier than pen, paper and calculator. My husband has been texting my doula back and forth with contraction updates. When my doula arrived, she said my contractions were all over the place. My husband and I had no idea. My doula was definitely the professional here. Since I wasn't restricted in bed, I can move around and change positions, she saw how my belly sits. She thought about it last night and she had a theory. She had me wear a maternity belt to pull the baby closer, over my pelvic. My contractions were back to normal. I wondered if that was what was wrong with my first birth. My doula Stephanie was awesome. She has so much experience and training. She saved me from having another c-section. She has these credentials: Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD), licensed practical nurse (LPN), Certified Doulas (DONA). She knew which pressure point to press around midpoint of inner calf to get the labor going. Throughout the early contractions, we just hang out on the bed and watched romantic comedy movies on Lifetime TV. I haven't watched that much TV since my first child was born. LOL. We joked and laughed. We snacked, we ate, and we stay hydrated. My godsend mom was watching Jasmine for us. When the contractions started to get more intense, it was nice to get massages. My doula applied aromatherapy to take the edge off. Conair aromatherapy diffuser worked wonders. When the contractions got really intense, my doula showed my husband how to do pelvic squeeze properly and took off a lot of pain. Also I listened to my hypnobirth track and helped through some intense ones. It was nice to see that it worked.

By around 5-6 pm, Stephanie told me my baby will be here tonight. I couldn't believe it. I went through contractions with my previous birth, but I never know what transition was like. She contacted my midwife Bea and my birth photographer Nicole Gillette. My husband set up the water tub (make sure the new plastic tarp is in the tub before you add the water). The midwife broke my water. We got in the tub. But the water was too hot and we both got dizzy. When we moved to the room with the water tub, I lost the hypnobabies track and I couldn't get it to play on another device. So I sounded out with a deep and controlled moan for pain management. When baby's head was coming out, I pushed and pushed. I was exhausted. I pushed on my back leaning on my husband. I also tried squatting. I kept saying I can't do it. They kept cheering me and yelling me to push. I wished I ate more so I have more energy. We did the ring pull. They gave me Emergen C to drink to keep hydrated. They putted cold cloth over my forehead to keep comfortable. My doula gave me more aromatherapy scent to smell. My mom and Jasmine came back home, but Jasmine's screaming was distracting me, so they went back to the car and waited. I must have been pushing for an hour and I wasn't making any progress and getting tired and weak.

I heard many moms almost delivered on the toilet because it's a more natural way of pushing. I happened to find a chair with a hole and have it available just in case I need to use it. Actually the medical purpose chair was made for potty. It's very comfortable and sturdy. I moved to the chair and after only a few hard pushes, the baby was out. I couldn't believe it. I delivered a baby vaginally. During the transition, I was aware of my surrounding, but seems like I was also out of my body at the same time. Human brain is amazing to help you cope. For people who have fear of pain, yes, it was intense at that moment, but with all the support people, it's manageable and birth hormones help you forget about it. It was amazing to see Katie, to hold her, and to hear her cry. It was nice to have the photos and the video of her when she was born. I was kind of out of it and it's hard to remember all the details. It was a very special moment.

We tried to latch and nurse as soon as possible to get the natural oxytocin going to stop the bleeding. The baby was so alert. Very different from Jasmine (even with only an hour of epidural, Jasmine couldn't latch right away). I moved onto the bed. Katie nursed very strongly. She opened her eyes and looked at us. Just treasuring those moments. Jasmine wanted to meet her and she was so excited to finally see her little sister. My mom was so happy to hold Katie. Healthy 9 lbs. I had a big baby. Take that to whoever said I couldn't birth a big baby. So much for low carb diet, at least I didn't gain any weight after the baby was out. It was all baby. Both times I passed my glucose tolerance test. Someone said maybe I have a diabetic gene. Don't know if that did it. After the next few contractions, the placenta came out. I did have a third degree tear so I had to go to the hospital for suture. My doula went with me. I asked the doctor for lots of local anesthesia. To me, needles were more painful than contractions. I had a lot of gas from the pregnancy so it was embarrassing but luckily the doctor on duty was very kind.

When I was at the hospital, they tried to keep me there over night, but my baby was hungry at home. They did test my blood and said I had high white cell count and gave me the prescription for antibotics. I just gave birth to a baby for heaven's sake. I didn't want to deal with the side effects of the antibiotics like diarrhea when I'm trying to recover from giving birth to a baby, so I decided not to take it. A week or so later, I got another blood test and my cell count was normal and fine.

Before the midwife and her assistant left, they placed all of the used towels and bedsheet in the washer with oxiclean. Everything was cleaned.

Recovery was so much better this time around. I still had to recover. A baby came out of my vaginal. First week was the hardest, then it gets better day by day. I still had to lay in the bed and rest. For the first few weeks, I didn't have much muscle control down there. Depends diapers were the best. I had to sit gingerly the first two weeks on the poppy pillow because I didn't have a donuts pillow. It was easier to breastfeed without the c-section’s incision in the way. But by the end of the month, I was out and about, back to my normal self. So different from my previous experience. Following photo was taken 3 days after the VBAC.

Here are the photos from the first birth.  

Here are more photos from the VBAC.

Does it look like a different experience all together?  I was holding the baby :)

Believe

I think the toughest part of our VBAC journey was mental, because naysayers doubted me and I had to believe that I can do it. It was an empowering experience to say that I did it and others can do it too.

It was such a wonderful experience. Exactly how I want my birth to be. This personal choice was right of my family, my husband and I. We have Blue Cross Blue Shield of FL - PPO, and they covered my homebirth with the midwife. I didn't have any problem with the insurance at all since the labor center handled it. It was least of my worries.

At the end, I think we have taken all of the birth classes available out there :) So much for the quickest birth class :)

For moms who are trying a VBAC, know that you have the legal right to choose who you want to birth with, and don't be afraid to choose the one you think can provide the best care for you. It's so important to have choices on where you want to give birth. Seems like some lawmakers and its medical affiliates want to eliminate all competitions and monopolize the birth industry. It's difficult to find physicians who will sign off on a VBAC when hospital can blacklist them. There's plenty of business to go around.

Why did I go through all these?I didn't take the easier route.Later I found this in the NIH database during my research."Delivery by C-section has been associated with increased risk for allergy, diabetes and leukemia."Something about baby going through birth canal, effects body on the cellular level. "Research adds to evidence that babies born via C-section may miss out on beneficial bacteria passed on by their mothers."
http://www.usnews.com/science/articles/2010/06/22/babys-first-bacteria-depend-on-birth-route

Also, we went through all this so we can have a safer and healthier birth and baby. We knew c-section and epidural are not without risks. Up until birth, I tried to avoid all the negative energy and only surround with people with positive thinking. A huge part of VBAC is mental. Positive thinking. Believe in yourself and trust your body. You can do it. You're in good hands. Just go with the flow. Whatever happens you're okay with it. Positive imagery. Imagine you're holding a beautiful baby. Stay positive, look after yourself and believe you will achieve. YOU CAN DO IT!

what is lyme disease?

August 2011 was the worst month we went through as parents. Earlier this month, we saw three deers at the back of our house and thought it was cute. Then three days later, Jasmine got bitten by something and we didn't think much of it. Two weeks later, we noticed she had a bull eye rash on her arm. It was round like the Target store logo, no question about it. We were curious and did some internet research - all photos lead to lyme disease. We had no clue what it was until now. One can become disable years later if it's not treated. It can attack the brain and nervous system. Some people don't even develop this rash. It's a terrible disease and we need to kill off the bacteria right away. We wanted to take a photo of this rash, but it already went away. We got the first pediatrician appointment available. The doctor we saw dismissed it saying this disease is rare here and the rash may be something else. We practically had to beg her to give us the prescription. Jasmine hasn't take any antibiotics until now, but we don't want to risk any chances with this bacteria. What's the downside versus waiting until it's too late and she'll have to suffer for the rest of her life? We got 250 mg at three times per day for 14 days. Since it was the first time we give Jasmine the oral Amoxicillin (no allergies), it took us a painful hour to convince her to take it. We nearly broke down. Later we found that we can give the medicine with chocolate/strawberry milk, yogurt or apple sauce so she won't notice it. We found a local doctor specialized in lyme (Dr. Cichon), but he doesn't see children. He lead us to a leading pediatrician specialize in lyme disease in Connecticut (Dr. Charles Jones). They told us with Jasmine's age and weight, she should take 400 mg of amoxicillin at twice a day for ** 30 days **, and to make sure we kill off all the bacterias if there are any symptoms. So far Jasmine has no symptoms, no diarrhea, and she looks very normal. We were in the processing of finding another pediatrician anyways. Dr. Saxena was so awesome to take care of us (thanks Catherine for the recommendation!). Also thanks to our friend Angela and cousin Shirley for helping us through this ordeal! The worst feeling in the world is when your child is seriously ill. You want to do everything you can and leave no stone unturned. I think Jasmine will be okay since she has the treatment. It makes every moment the more precious...

Brain sets foundation in the early years

- confirming our theory that baby's brain's neurons are developing in the early years and it's important to nourish it.
http://yourbottomline.blogs.cnn.com/2012/02/11/rethinking-k-12-education-crawl-12/
http://tunein.com/tuner/?ProgramId=694&TopicId=35888852&

- manageable stresses in a child's life build his capacity to deal with large stresses in adulthood http://www.welcometoyourbrain.com/

Oprah's Lifeclass Notes

- Our thoughts are our energy that we put out to the world.
- Honor your parents.
- Does your eyes light up when important people in your life walk into the room?  Validate them by not ignoring them.  Get off the phone or the computer.
Be present.  Do you see me.  Do you hear me.  See their eyes when talk to them.
- A note "I'm praying for you" for people going through difficulties.
- You Become What You Believe

Toddlers on-line

Fun on the Web
http://hcplc.org/hcplc/justkids/

from a mom: online game for 2 years called "Howrse". It's a cyber game, where you own, train, compete, and breed horses. You earn cyber money to spend on your horse, can own a horse farm, and actually run a business with it. She's getting an early lesson in economics and business management. I'm not sure what all else I could "classify" what she's learning in this game, but we're having a blast doing it! www.howrse.com if anyone's interested.

Toddler's activities in Taipei

Leo's playland
http://www.leosplayland.com/intro_c.html
Leo's playland at Xinyi Dist~It is a indoor playground at Taipei

cooking class at Royal Host from age 4
http://www.royalhost.com.tw/news.php?class_type=01&pid=341

遊戲愛樂園（新光三越A8).

小人國
桃園縣龍潭鄉高原村橫岡下60-2號
(03)471-7211
http://www.woc.com.tw/web/html/01about/01.aspfacebook OPEN魔法樂園在小人國

CAFE BALLET~*BaBy Kitchen*
https://www.facebook.com/pages/CAFE-BALLETBaBy-Kitchen/164854700221720
台北市松山區富錦街386號
(02)2747-2346
Mon - Fri: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Sat - Sun: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
BABY KITCHEN 是一家為親子打造的咖啡館

Maternity pad, clothes, etc.
http://www.genniesclub.com/
Locations

Taipei Zoo
gondola ride

Children's Art Museum
Here's a mom's blog about the museum with photos.

信誼 親子館 Indoor Play Zone
信誼 bookstore next door http://www.hsin-yi.org.tw/kidStore/

風車書版集團 http://www.windmill.com.tw
Gymboree Taiwan classes

Baby swimming class

Art Classes

Y17 親子館

My Gym indoor play area

Children's Bookstore
- ACME
- Taipei Book Conference
- 168 Books
- 168 Store front

Name Stickers by Taipei Main Station MRT underground shopping area by Z1 entrance

Ecoh Ecoh Xue Canteen - all vegetarian meals on Mondays

LE GOUT bread store
www.legout.com.tw台北市內湖區瑞光路188巷58號 02 26587316
a blog http://blog.yam.com/celine0905/article/30182283


to call U.S. from Taiwan dial 0191 + area code + phone number

Another mommy blog on places to take kids.

一直在收集能帶小孩去玩耍的地方

1歲以下的小孩要帶出門真的不容易

怕他無聊

也怕他吵到別人

更怕設施不全媽咪我手忙腳亂

所以我整理了一下

BB可以去的地方與課程

和大家分享一下囉~~~~



童心園
http://www.weplay.com.tw/ugC_Home.asp

健寶園
http://www.gymboree.com.tw/default.htm

童年空間
http://www.wretch.cc/blog/hsin130/11445679

米拉餐廳
http://www.wretch.cc/blog/hsin130/11472014

信誼親子館
http://www.hsin-yi.org.tw/kidsPark/

Y17
http://www.wretch.cc/blog/hsin130/11495265

桑富士游泳課
http://www.sunfish.com.tw/index.htm

故事屋
http://www.kidstoryhouse.com.tw/

哇哇故事屋
http://www.wowhouse.com.tw/index.html

蘇荷兒童美術館
http://www.artart.com.tw/

故事島兒童故事屋
http://kidsstoryroom.com/chinese/?page_id=15

關渡自然公園
http://www.gd-park.org.tw/edu_front/index.php?cno=0004


高雄 Kaohsiung
義大世界 E-Da World 義大遊樂世界 http://www.edathemepark.com.tw

南投 Nantou
清靜農場 QingJing Sheep Farm
http://www.cingjing.gov.tw

Bed & Breakfast http://www.dingdai.com.tw

http://www.cingjing.gov.tw/en/about/index.php

宜蘭 Yilan
臺灣傳統藝術中心 http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/main/index.aspx
http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/c02/image/chmap.gif

布袋戲 http://www.uppacific.com.tw

Computer store in Taipei
Guang Hua Digital Plaza (光華數位新天地 or 光華商場)
MRT exit Zhongxiao Xinsheng (exit 1, go straight, turn right at the Barista coffee, go straight)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guang_Hua_Digital_Plaza

Color draw pad
http://shopping.windmill.com.tw/index.aspx

Little Art 天才巧克力幼兒塗鴉空間
【塗鴉課程】☆招生中！歡迎來電洽詢
【生日派對】☆幼兒生日派對, 主題派對 歡迎預約!
【場地租借】☆可容納60人, 兒童派對, 藝文活動, 公司活動, 記者會等
預約報名請洽：(02)2731.3180
☆Little Art Class: age2-6
☆Children's Party Service: birthdays, theme parties
☆Event Rental: Up to 60pax., suitable for children's parties, art related functions, company events, press events, product launch. Please contact us for more details.
For inquiries, please contact (02)2731.3180 or littleart@tsaigallery.com

Mama Mia 親子館 Music & Movement台北館 Taipei : since 2006
部落格 http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/mamamiakids/
Mama Mia 親子館為0-8歲寶貝&家長共享成長的園地.提供音樂, 英文故事,

北投加賀屋溫泉

Baby boss
http://diary.blog.yam.com/babyboss

鶯哥捏陶
台北育樂中心 http://www.tcrc.taipei.gov.tw/
平溪放天燈

zucchini quiche from Laura

Preheat oven to 350

Mix together in a large bowl: (liquid first)
4 eggs slightly beaten
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
2 teaspoons garlic salt
2 teaspoons oregano (or basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme)
1/2 cup chopped onions
1 cup grated cheese (i used cheddar, but you can use other kinds)
1 cup Bisquick
3 cups thinly sliced zucchini

Pour evenly into a 9X13 greased pan (i use nonstick spray)

Cook for 30-35 minutes at 350. Then cook on low broil for 5-10 minutes depending on how brown you want it on top.

This Asparagus Zucchini Quiche looks good too!
http://jsprat.wordpress.com/2009/10/04/zucchini-asparagus-quiche-with-herbs/

Free Birthday Meals

Free Birthday Meals! getta save this link. why didn't i think of it before. i guess we don't go out much anymore. but a great way to eat out for a good price.

Swimming Lessons for the Baby

1) Blow Bubbles
Count 1, 2, 3, go. Show the baby these: inhale air, take a deep breath, hold your breath, lower mouth into water, and blow bubbles in the water.

2) Reach and Pull
Throw a floating ball out. Blend one of your knee and put the baby on your thigh. Hold each of baby's hands. Say "reach and pull" as you extend her arms back and forth. Move forward by hopping with the other leg. Once the baby gets to the ball, let the baby hold the ball before you take it and toss it out again.

3) Kick, kick, kick
Let the baby hug you. Hold her ankle. Stretch her legs and hold them together as close and comfortable as you can. Say kick, kick, kick and you move backward. Not a lot of splash. Not too much over the water nor under the water, just at the edge of the water.

4) Head dip
The baby is facing you. Hold and extend your arm as far as you can. Count 1, 2, 3, go. You inhale air, close mouth, dip her into the water, and pull her toward you. Say "kick, kick, kick" and "good job".

5) Float Backwards
Hold the baby lightly below the baby's arms. Turn the baby around and face up. Make sure the baby's ears are under the water.

6) Elbow, elbow, knee, knee (climb out of the pool)

Stage 1: While both of you are in the pool, go to the wall and assist the baby to climb out of the pool. Say elbow, elbow, knee, knee.

Stage 2: Sit at the edge with the baby. Say "what happens when you drop into the water?" Tap the baby's hand on the floor. Say "you climb on the wall". then dip the baby into the water by the wall (you're still holding on to the baby). Turn the baby around. Take the baby to the wall. Assist the baby to climb up the wall with elbow, elbow, knee, knee.

some tips on making lettuce last longer

1. Wash and dry lettuce thoroughly and then keep in a sealed bag (or double bag) with a paper towel inside to absorb any excess moisture, expressing as much air out of the bag as you can manage.

2. Do not cut the leaves of the lettuce until you are ready to use it. Where possible always tear
off the leaves as they are needed.

3. Slightly wilted greens can be refreshed for a few minutes in ice water.

By following these simple hints you can prolong the life of a lettuce up to 3 weeks.

Bright from the Start

Bright from the Start, by Jill Stamm, Ph.D.

i borrowed this book from the library, wished i read this earlier. wished there's a parenting class and this book should be in the required list of reading! here are the highlights and notes:

should i really read to my baby? is all tv bad or only some tv? can teaching a baby sign language really boost iq? how should be caregiver be stimulating my baby? does classical music help?

- beware of the product that promise to stimulate development, brainy toys with lights and sounds. from the researchers - what babies and toddlers really need is simple and doesn't cost that much money
- consistent loving care
- how often child hears stories
- face to face time, singing and talking to your baby instead of laptop, cell phone or tv

- who cares for a child and how knowledgeable that person is create groundwork for later classroom learning abilities (the child care taker should know the info in this book)
- what happens before preschool is critical - a ready brain is healthy, active, nurtured and capable of learning

- what your baby needs are easy as ABC: Attention, Bonding, and Communication
- ATTENTION - use the brain's energy to pay attention. face to face interactions or certain kinds of play. certain technologies limit valuable live interactions.
- BONDING - touch, develop security
- COMMUNICATION - talk and read

- increase social opportunities, personality noticeably emerges
- opportunities to play and interact with other people influence a child's cognitive growth in both receptive and expressive language development

- never, never, never give up on a child. malleable brain development can be in response to repeated effort and experience

you can help wire a healthy brain with ABC: Attention, Bonding, and Communication
- spending one-on-one time loving your child
- playing with your child
- responding quickly and predictably to your child
- touching and cuddling with your child
- providing routines that establishes patterns of caring response
- talking to your child
- reading and singing to your child

- brain synapese are connecting most rapidly the first 2 years of life (language, colors, sounds, smells, textures, temperature, cause & effect, face, etc). by 6 years old (1st grade), there's explosion of neuronal activities. in late childhood and adolescence (14 years old), pruning takes place on rarely used and not formed circuits to focus on the niche. the more frequent connections are used, the further strengthened and more efficient. go from different routes of small roads to major highway. which connections are formed and which connections are retained shaped by one's early experiences. As a parent, influence the "roads" that are laid down and taken place in your child's brain.

Bottomline: before 6 years old and early childhood education are so important to lay down the synapes. teach them all different things, and reinforce the thoughts you want them to become. the foundation is so critical to brain's organization.

- early brain synapes are resistant to change: if a child has a strong emotional start, she's likely to be resilient and able to cope with stress later in life. the very best kind for learning flourish in a predictable environment with * interesting experiences * assure a strong sense of security * lovingly hold and touch child frequently * interesting things to look at and hear. on the other hand, if the child is in a chaotic, non-supportive environment, effects is resistant to change as well...

- let go of the regrets and focus on the future. it's never too late regardless of the age. "i did what i knew. and when i knew better, i did better." it's the overall pattern of love, security, and stimulation that you provide determine whether your child will thrive. "your choices... shape their chances" the most important thing a parent can provide is a loving, stable relationship that leads to frequent, meaningful and responsive interactions with their baby.

toddler are visual, hearing sounds of new languages. the part of brain in charge of planning, abstract reasoning, prioritize and understand consequences of a behavior are not formed, therefore toddler don't understand why they shouldn't touch a hot stove and some teenagers maynot make good decisions. you do grow older and wiser.

- when a child has been neglected, they'll constantly monitor their environment for things that might harm them. they sacrifice the ability to learn new information, and focus on satisfy basic human needs for food, comfort, and companionship.

- Attention - paying attention -> Alert, Shift (change what you're doing), maintain (focus on one things while ignore other stimuli, thoughts, and emotions. children who were able to refrain from eating a marshmallow while examiner was out of the room (some kids developed strategies to distract themselves, like singing, walking around, or closing their eyes) are more likely to be self-confident, popular with peers, able to cope with frustration, and successful in school. the ability to control impulses at a young age (waiting) tends to predict a pattern of future behavior.

- set a non-tech face to face time with baby. playing, eating, reading.

- a child see you spend time in front of the computer and want to do the same and imitate. pretend toys are okay, just provide a wide variety of play experiences - indoor, outdoor, natural material as well as toys with lights and sounds. naturally stimulating environment is essential. learn to match pairs of socks requires child to keep the sock she's searching for in mind while ignoring the other similar socks and other things going on is better than spend in front of a flashing child product.

- attention tricks: - use variety range of voice volume. sometimes whisper is effective. contrast in intensity also work for colors. - different sizes - new items - things that doesn't go there (ie socks on dad's head is funny) - emotion drives attention and attention drives memory. when you're nervous, worried, depressed, afraid, agitated, or upset, it's difficult to focus on learning. * our emotional state affects our ability to pay attention. * learning are optimal when you're able to relax and yet alert. playful baby has been fed, changed, and napped. - personalize, kids love to see or hear their own name. child is interested in the story if you change the main character to her name.

- change the focus from what my child cannot do, to what i can do to influence my child's ability to reach the developmental milestone.

- infant: when awake, face to face time singing and talking. eye contact and eye movement. baby imitate you. point and label objects. high contrast colors (red, yellow, black and white). use mobile.

- baby: face to face time when talking. change/rotate toys. say "watch" to observe an action to start cue her to pay attention, then use quiet voice to encourage baby's attention. 1 variable at one time (ie group by color - different colors, same size and shape).

- toddler: eye level eye contact, roll a ball to encourage visual tracking and eye-hand coordination, point objects, ask about items in the book, enunciate new word clearly, when toddler is alert use those time for deliberate interactions (i.e. read), rotate toys for novelty, say "watch" to observe action, use quiet voice to gain attention, 2 variable at one time (i.e. group by color, different size or shapes), use massage to refocus, use red/green light to foster inhibitory control.

- if you bottle feed, switch side like you're breastfeeding. a well formed corpus callosum allows for better integration of the information processed in both the left and right hemispheres. and lock eyes with baby, eye gaze. softly talk or whisper to the baby. stroke baby's hand, arm, body, etc. for that connection and bonding.

- monkey see, monkey do. baby naturally mirror you. i.e. you wave good bye, the baby learns to imitate. ie. you point a board book and read, the child may imitate.

- eye contact is important - social skills, communication, and behavior.

- better language scores: label objects, point as you read, notice sounds you hear.

- play is a child's work. play is the way the children learn.

i'll continue later...