Ages & Stages

Moving? Help Kids Adjust.
Moving can be an exciting and uncertain time for children of all ages as well as for adults. Help your family prepare for the move.

• Infants & toddlers are sensitive to your moods. Be sure to take time out to play and cuddle when things seem to get unsettling for them.
• Preschoolers are worried about their physical needs and environment. Let them help pack. Keep your routines as normal as possible. Read books about moving.
• School age children are focused on their peer relationships. Talk with them about where the family will live. Visit the new neighborhood, school.
• Teens need lots of time to say good-byes. Be patient and understanding.

Links
Moving to a New Home (pdf)

Adult Children with Aging Parents
One of the most difficult tasks faced by families in midlife is watching a parent age. Sometime roles are reversed as adult children assume responsibility for the aging parent. If you are the caregiver for an elderly parent:

• Involve your siblings and the parent in decisions, if possible.
• Consult an attorney about legal arrangements if you must manage your parent's income and assets.
• Explore Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, so that you will be able to make the necessary decisions at the end of your parent's life.
• Check with the local Area Agency on Aging to locate support services (Adult Day Care, Home Health Aides, Visiting Nurse) and to find a caregiver support group.

Links
Managing Stress in Midlife Families (pdf)

Quality Time, Quality Books

Here is a rainy day activity! Read and snack with your preschooler. You'll be teaching your kids language skills (reading and rhyming), listening and observational skills (following directions), and large motor skills (picking up objects with hands).

Read this Book Together!
I Spy: Little Wheels
Rhymes by Jean Marzollo

Me and My Dad "I Spy" Snack!
Kids love to help prepare foods with their dad. Even if all they are doing is spying some fruits in the fridge for you. Make this easy snack. Use favorite fruits like apples, oranges, and grapes. Vegetables like carrots, celery, or broccoli are good too.

Easy as 1, 2, 3!
1. Have your little helper "spy" some ingredients from the refrigerator. "I spy an apple."
2. Cut into bite size pieces and place in bowl.
3. Take your bowl of fruits and/or veggies and enjoy "spying" a chunk of apple or carrot while you play a game of "I Spy" on the floor together.

Me and My Dad "I Spy" Activity!
1. Gather several objects, large and small, from around the house. Collect forks, spoons, pots and pans, lids, toys, rubber bands, toothbrushes, or anything you want to help your preschooler learn to identify around the house.
2. Spread the items in an open space.
3. Start your game of "I Spy" while you munch on snacks. I spy some rainy day fun!!!