Fran Maier’s Post

The Power of Storytelling: A Screen-Free Approach to Parenting Recently, I visited a friend’s house and was amazed by what I witnessed. My friend was feeding her 2-year-old son, Edi, while reading him a storybook. What struck me even more was that they had managed to keep him 100% away from mobile phones and TV. This seemingly impossible feat opened my eyes to the power of storytelling and screen-free parenting. 1. Building a Stronger Bond • Reading stories aloud creates a special bonding time between parents and children. • It fosters a sense of security and love, enhancing emotional connection. Watching my friend narrate a story while feeding Edi, I saw how engaged and happy he was. His eyes lit up with each new character and creating a beautiful moment of connection between them. 2. Encouraging Imagination and Creativity • Storybooks stimulate a child’s imagination far more than screens can. • They encourage creative thinking and visualization skills. My friend shared how Edi, after listening to a story about animals, began creating his own animal adventures with his toys. This kind of imaginative play is invaluable for cognitive development. 3. Cultivating Patience and Focus • Storytime requires children to sit and listen, fostering patience and concentration. • It helps them develop better attention spans, which are crucial for learning. Instead of being restless or distracted, Edi sat calmly, fully absorbed in the story. This level of focus is a skill that will serve him well in the future. 4. Reducing Screen Time • Keeping children away from screens can prevent potential negative impacts on their health and development. • It encourages more active and engaged forms of play and learning. My friend’s commitment to a screen-free environment was evident in Edi’s active and curious nature. Without the distraction of screens, he was more inclined to explore and interact with the world around him. #parentingtips #storytelling #screentime #childdevelopment #imagination #literacyskills My friend’s approach to parenting showed me that with a bit of creativity and dedication, it is possible to keep children engaged and screen-free. Incorporating storytime into daily routines can create enriching experiences that benefit both parents and children.

ASK MAE! 🐝 🧠 My kid is having trouble focusing. What can I do? 💬 It’s pretty common for kids between 5-12 to have moments where they struggle with focus. One evidence-based strategy is to create a consistent routine that includes time for work and play, using visual timers to help keep your child on track. For example, you could set a timer for a fun activity following a homework session, helping your child see that focus leads to rewards. Do you have questions about parenting? Meet Mae, your parenting coach in a pocket! Download HeyKiddo from the App Store or Google Play Store and let Mae inspire and guide you on your journey of parenthood. #parenting #parentingtips #parentingadvice

Do you see a Shift in your Parenting Style When You Have 2nd or 3rd Child? As parents, our parenting style naturally evolves when we have more than one child. Initially, the focus is on adjusting to the unique needs of each child. But with a second (or third) child, priorities shift, and flexibility becomes key. The factors behind this change are numerous—time constraints, sibling dynamics, and personal growth. We move from a state of individual attention to balancing the needs of multiple children, which often calls for adapting our strategies. The reason for this shift lies in the natural growth curve of parenthood. As parents, we develop a deeper understanding of our own strengths and limitations, as well as the uniqueness of each child. This change signifies growth, as we learn to navigate complexities with patience and love. It’s a sign of evolution, where the early days of parenting give way to a more adaptable, multi-dimensional approach—one that fosters both individual and collective family development. In essence, parenting more than one child invites a beautiful evolution—where wisdom, empathy, and flexibility define the journey. #ParentingEvolution #GrowthAsAParent #ParentingJourney #SiblingDynamics #MultiChildParenting #ParentCoach #ParentingTips #FamilyGrowth #AdaptableParenting #ParentingWithLove

The dynamics of parenting have evolved, and so have the components of parenting plans amidst separations or divorces. An essential aspect that is gaining traction is virtual visitation - a modern solution that enables parents to maintain meaningful relationships with their children, regardless of physical distances. It's crucial for parents to consider incorporating virtual visitation terms into their parenting plans to ensure that the bond with their child remains strong, whether through video calls, instant messaging, or other digital communication platforms. This adaptation not only reflects technological advancements but also supports the emotional well-being of children during transitional periods. For those navigating through parenting plans, it's worth exploring how virtual visitation can play a beneficial role in your family's life. Reach out to me for help: [email protected] #ParentingInDigitalAge #VirtualVisitation #FamilyLaw

The dynamics of parenting have evolved, and so have the components of parenting plans amidst separations or divorces. An essential aspect that is gaining traction is virtual visitation - a modern solution that enables parents to maintain meaningful relationships with their children, regardless of physical distances. It's crucial for parents to consider incorporating virtual visitation terms into their parenting plans to ensure that the bond with their child remains strong, whether through video calls, instant messaging, or other digital communication platforms. This adaptation not only reflects technological advancements but also supports the emotional well-being of children during transitional periods. For those navigating through parenting plans, it's worth exploring how virtual visitation can play a beneficial role in your family's life. Reach out to me for help: [email protected] #ParentingInDigitalAge #VirtualVisitation #FamilyLaw

Discover the key to unlocking your child's full potential! Learn about the 5 critical stages of child development and the power of tailored parenting strategies. Explore why child development is a remarkable journey and gain insights to nurture and guide your child's success. Read the full guide now!

How Can You Prepare for Parenthood Before Having Kids? Answers: https://lnkd.in/gvvyXpC9 #ParentingTalk #FutureParents #BirdsToBabies So, here’s a thought I’ve been mulling over lately: **starting your projects or dreams before you have kids** can make a world of difference! 🐤 I'm not married yet, but my pet bird just had three little chicks a few months ago. Let me tell you—my productivity really took a nosedive while I was busy juggling their care! 📉 These little fluffballs are adorable, but wow, were they demanding. Imagine how much more challenging it must be to raise a human baby for several years! 😅 Here are a few things I’ve learned from this little experience: Time Commitment: Birds grow fast, and thankfully, I only had to struggle with distractions for a short while. But real kids? They've got needs for a long time! Financial Impact: The costs of raising a baby can be overwhelming. Between baby gear, daycare, and all the unexpected expenses, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Personal Projects: If you have dreams or hobbies you want to pursue, it might be a good idea to dive into those before the little ones arrive. You’ll have more free time ...

Calling all purposeful parents! In celebration of July being Purposeful Parenting Month, I want to shine a spotlight on the incredible journey we embark on as parents. Being a purposeful parent means going beyond simply raising children; it means being intentional and mindful in our approach to nurturing and guiding them. As purposeful parents, we strive to create an environment that fosters growth, love, and understanding. We understand the power of our words and actions, and we use them to build up our children’s self-esteem and confidence. We prioritize quality time and meaningful connections, cherishing every moment we have with our little ones. We teach our children important values such as kindness, empathy, and resilience. We encourage them to explore their passions, embrace their individuality, and celebrate their achievements, no matter how big or small. We lead by example, showing them what it means to be compassionate, resilient, and lifelong learners. Being a purposeful parent also means being present and actively involved in our children’s lives. We listen to them, validate their feelings, and provide a safe space for them to express themselves. We support their dreams and aspirations, guiding them towards their full potential. Let’s take this month as an opportunity to reflect on our parenting journey and celebrate the incredible impact we have on our children’s lives. Share your stories, tips, and moments of joy using the hashtag #PurposefulParentingMonth. Together, let’s inspire and uplift each other as we navigate the beautiful and challenging world of parenthood. Remember, being a purposeful parent is a continuous journey of growth and learning. Every day is a chance to make a positive difference in our children’s lives. Let’s embrace this journey with open hearts and open minds. Dad Up! #dadup #bryanward #maxout #PurposefulParentingMonth #ParentingJourney #IntentionalParenting #NurturingChildren #BuildingConfidence #CherishingMoments #TeachingValues #BeingPresent #SupportingDreams #InspireAndUplift #ParentingWithLove #GrowingTogether

How Can You Prepare for Parenthood Before Having Kids? Answers: https://lnkd.in/gY-Aqhah #ParentingTalk #FutureParents #BirdsToBabies So, here’s a thought I’ve been mulling over lately: **starting your projects or dreams before you have kids** can make a world of difference! 🐤 I'm not married yet, but my pet bird just had three little chicks a few months ago. Let me tell you—my productivity really took a nosedive while I was busy juggling their care! 📉 These little fluffballs are adorable, but wow, were they demanding. Imagine how much more challenging it must be to raise a human baby for several years! 😅 Here are a few things I’ve learned from this little experience: Time Commitment: Birds grow fast, and thankfully, I only had to struggle with distractions for a short while. But real kids? They've got needs for a long time! Financial Impact: The costs of raising a baby can be overwhelming. Between baby gear, daycare, and all the unexpected expenses, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Personal Projects: If you have dreams or hobbies you want to pursue, it might be a good idea to dive into those before the little ones arrive. You’ll have more free time ...

Parents, Have You Noticed a Change in Your Parenting Style with Every New Addition to Your Family? As a life and parent coach, I often encounter parents who have experienced remarkable shifts in their parenting style with each new addition to their family. This is a transformation that is both beautiful and profound. With every new baby, parents recognize that each child is unique and requires individualized care and attention. What worked for the firstborn may not necessarily work for the second or third child. This prompts parents to become more flexible and open-minded. Parents gain confidence and experience as they navigate the challenges of raising multiple children. They become more adept at recognizing and meeting their children's needs, having honed their skills through previous experiences. This newfound confidence allows parents to trust their instincts and make decisions that align with their family's values and dynamics. Another noticeable change is the ability to find a balance between structure and flexibility. With more children, parents learn to strike a harmonious equilibrium between routines and adaptability. They understand the importance of establishing consistent boundaries while remaining adaptable to the changing needs and circumstances of their growing family. Additionally, parents often find themselves fostering a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility among their children. This collaborative environment nurtures a sense of camaraderie and empathy, facilitating the development of strong sibling bonds. It is a journey of growth, adaptation, and learning. Parents become more flexible, confident, and adept at meeting the individual needs of each child. Embracing these changes allows parents to create a harmonious and loving upbringing for their growing family. #ConfidenceInParenthood #AdaptingToEachChild #ParentingJourney #GrowingFamily #SiblingSupport   The image is sourced from Internet and credit goes to its creator.