i think i can, i think i can….

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Dealing with two children under five is hard sometimes, every week we deal with a new behavior.  Teaching kids the right way is so important but sometimes it gets frustrating for all.  Making sticker charts, for our children, helps a lot of mom. Why not have the kids help make their own charts?  When kids make their own charts they are starting to take responsibility and ownership for their actions.  The creative process might also show kids a positive outlet for their frustrations.  Here are two behaviors we are dealing with and the charts my children helped make.

Potty Chart

Megan is two now, and besides the “terribles” hitting us full force we also are now starting the potty training.   Meg and I worked together to make her own potty chart that can go right by the potty!

you need:

* 2 Craft Foam sheets

*Ribbon

*Stamp and Stamp pad

*Fabric Paint

Have child stamp on the foam sheet, then Mom write child’s name and free hand drew a toilet, toilet paper and soap on the sheet with fabric paint.  Punch two holes at the top of the sheet and string ribbon through to make a hanger.  Decorate with other items, butterfly, flower or feathers.

Use second foam sheet to stamp stars or hearts all over sheet, cut out.  Place Velcro backing on star and the chart. 

Emotion Pocket
Nolan has just left his toddler years and sprung into being a big boy, but some toddler behaviors were left behind.  Nolan has a hard time telling us how he really feels, and sometimes the little things cause him more frustration then need be.  We sat down and made visual cues to help let our true emotions show. 

you need:

*Craft foam sheets

* Ribbon

*Fabric paint

* Plastic spoons

Fold foam sheet in half and punch six holes on each side.  String ribbon through holes on each side to make a pocket and tie.  Write name on pocket and decorate. 

 Use the fabric paint to draw different emotional faces on each spoons, happy, sad, angry, tired etc. Have child make each face as you draw them.    Write the emotion on the bottom of each spoon. Glue little strips of ribbon to the top of each spoon for hair.

Making a craft together is true quality time.  Showing your love, compassion and understanding can help a child more then any chart! Happy Crafting!