Astrid Rivera Reynoso, Autor en Baby Creysi

What is spring? Explanation for children

Posted on 16/03/2022 - 15:18 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

As an adult, many things seem normal to you, and you don’t stop to enjoy them, but for your children, it is a great discovery, and they are curious to know the reason for everything around them. A new season is about to arrive, and your little ones will surely ask you what spring is. We will help you with this information.

Spring is one of the four seasons of the year; it follows winter and comes before summer. It starts between March 20^th and 21^st. This season, we see the plants turn green, the landscape is filled with flowers, and the weather is much warmer. That’s why the name of this season means first greenness, and its origin is in the Latin words prima and vera.

We recommend: Girl names inspired by spring

In the spring, plants turn green and offer us beautiful landscapes. Photo: Shutterstock

What are the seasons?

The Earth revolving around the Sun generates the seasons; this movement is called Translation. Our planet takes 365 days to go around the Sun, which is the same time as a year. As it advances on its path, the seasons happen, each lasting three months.

“This knowledge about the movements of the Earth is thanks to the astronomer Nicholaus Copernicus, who challenged all previous theories that placed our planet as the center of the universe in which all the stars revolved around it,” explains Juan Cervantes Pérez, a researcher at the Universidad Veracruzana.

“Today, it is known that the Solar System not only moves about the core of the Milky Way but that the entire universe presents movement due to the expansion and interaction of the masses of planets, systems, galaxies, etc”.

The seasons are due to the translational movement of the Earth. Photo: Pxhere

Do not miss: Seven rituals to welcome spring

Is it spring all over the world?

Because the earth moves around the Sun, the amount of sunlight hits different parts of the world differently. For this reason, spring in the countries of the northern hemisphere (those located in the countries of northern Europe, North America, Central America, almost all of Asia, and a large part of Africa) begins between March 19th and 20^th, and 21^st.

While in the southern hemisphere, where the countries of South America, Africa, and all of Australia are located, autumn begins.

“The tilt of the Earth’s axis plays an important role for one and the other seasons. The beginning of the seasons of the year is marked only by the position of the Earth concerning the Sun”.

Juan Cervantes Pérez, researcher at the Universidad Veracruzana

The movement of the planet causes the seasons to be different in the countries of the northern and southern hemispheres. Photo: Pixabay

Ways to explain spring to children

Every detail that your little one sees catches his attention; you can teach them how spring is expressed with very simple activities:

Ask him to look at the trees and plants; you can tell him how they looked before and how they are flourishing.
Together, you can see the colors of the flowers and identify the colors and smells.
Tell him that thanks to the greening of the trees, they can have food.

children with flowers in spring — Teach your little one the effects of spring with simple activities. Photo: Pixabay

Spring in myths

Another way to explain to your little ones about spring is through myths. The ancient civilizations used to look at the sky to associate the events with the movement of the stars and make up stories. Spring is a phenomenon that gave rise to many myths. Persephone is the best known.

In Greek mythology, Persephone was the daughter of Zeus and Demeter, the fertility goddess. She was a lovely young woman who was kidnapped one day by Hades, who ruled the underworld, and she was forced to become his wife. Zeus tried to help the young woman and negotiated with his brother Hades so that he would free his daughter because when she is with her mother, the trees bear fruit, and everything turns green.

The myth of Persephone is one of the most famous for explaining spring. Photo: Shutterstock

Tell us on Facebook what your favorite season of the year is.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

Spoiler alert… Lessons from the movie Red

Posted on 15/03/2022 - 16:31 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Have you ever felt that your emotions are overflowing and that you don’t know what to do with them? Both children and adults go through situations where they are about to explode. Mei Lee turns into a red panda when her feelings overwhelm her; it reminds you of those times when you wanted to transform yourself. Red left us with great lessons, from emotional intelligence to the value of friendship.

This Disney film addresses the passage to adolescence and other taboos such as menstruation, but it also has many lessons that you can apply in your relationship with your children; it is also an option to have an enjoyable time with your naughty ones.

Red tells the story of Mei Lee, a thirteen-year-old girl who goes through many changes, physical and emotional, and comes from a very traditional family, so in her transition to adolescence, she faces all the family rules to fight for her ideals.

We recommend: Find out what animated character your child looks like at school.

This movie tells the story of a 13-year-old girl undergoing many changes. Photo: Disney

Emotional intelligence in children

Whenever Mei Lee feels strong emotions, such as anger or embarrassment, she transforms into a red panda. She must learn that managing feelings from childhood is very important. Emotional intelligence helps to face the challenges of life positively and thus avoid the sense of frustration.

“Promote the knowledge of your children’s emotions by helping them express them effectively and thus find solutions,” explains the Federation for the Defense of Private Schools (FEDEP).

Daniela Barzallo, a specialist in child neuropsychology, comments, “Children do not have the tools to manage their emotions, so adults have to be their guide and emotional management.” She advises parents to allow children to express their feelings and help them identify what they feel (anger, sadness, fear, etc.). She also asks to show understanding and lead by example with her attitude.

Emotional intelligence allows children to manage their emotions positively. Photo: Pixabay

Most of the conflicts that Mei Lee goes through in Red are due to not managing her emotions well. These lessons that Red left us will make you reflect, in addition to the fact that you will indeed identify yourself with the parts of the film.

Express what you feel

Sometimes you don’t express what you feel for fear of having problems or disagreements with others; it is very damaging because when you keep everything that bothers you, you become a time bomb. Mei Lee didn’t tell her mom what bothered her, so she accumulated it until she became a red panda.

Overprotecting is not good

Mei Lee’s mom took care of her every step she took; she worried she could be at risk. Although her intentions were good, as she only wanted to protect her, she put her in awkward situations more than once, which caused her daughter more stress. As a parent, you worry too much about your little ones and are terrified of the idea that something will happen to them, which is why sometimes you go too far. You must let go and trust that you have brought them up well to face difficulties.

Mei Lee's mother was overly protective of her and put her in awkward situations. Photo: Disney — Mei Lee’s mother was overly protective of her and put her in awkward situations. Photo: Disney

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Follow your instincts

If Mei Lee’s mom was so overprotective, it was partly because her mom was too demanding of her, and she questioned the decisions she made in raising her. The experience of family and previous generations is very valuable. Still, you should also trust your abilities as a mom or dad and do what you think is best for your family.

Managing emotions

Mei Lee goes from one extreme to the other: either she keeps everything she feels to herself, or she lets it out all at once, like when she gets mad at the birthday party of one of her classmates. Knowing how to manage our emotions sounds easy but not; that is why it is super important that, from an early age, you teach your children the importance of managing their feelings and how to express them.

Knowing how to manage emotions is a skill that we must encourage in children. Photo: Disney

Respect their tastes and decisions

We all have different preferences, not because you like or dislike something; it will be the same with your child. Everyone is unique, so you must respect her tastes, clothes, music, or food without judging. Mei Lee didn’t talk to her mom about her favorite band, 4 Town, because she knew she didn’t like it, so she hid everything related to the band, and it caused her a lot of trouble.

The value of friendship

Mei Lee’s friends support her unconditionally; they accept her as she is, make her see that becoming a panda is not so bad, and encourage her to fight for what she wants and defend her ideals. Friends give you strength when you think that everything is lost; your little ones must know the relevance of friendship.

Friends are great support; they are in the good and the bad. Photo: Disney

Everything changes

Although sometimes you would like to stop time so that your children are babies forever and have them close to you, the reality is that they grow faster than you expect. Mei Lee’s mom kept things the same because she believed the changes would push them away. Everything changes in life, but this does not mean it is bad. Relationships are also transformed; even if they are no longer babies, you will always have a special connection with your children.

Do what makes you happy

In families, some traditions have been followed for generations. In Mei Lee’s, all women must perform a ritual to avoid becoming a red panda; however, this little girl broke with it. Her grandmother and aunts questioned her decision, they even blamed her mother for this choice, but later they accepted it; they realized that the most important thing is to do what gives you happiness since each one is different.

The most important thing is to do what gives us happiness without wanting to meet the expectations of others. Photo: Disney

Red is a film that will steal a lot of laughs from you and make you reflect on the lessons it leaves behind.

Tell us on Facebook what other teachings Red leaves you.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: here

Girl names inspired by spring

Posted on 15/03/2022 - 09:59 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

The favorite season of many is about to arrive; the weather and landscape are more beautiful at this time. If your little girl is yet to be born, these spring-inspired girl names are a great choice; they all have beautiful meanings.

For many cultures, spring represents a renewal. In this season, the plants turn green and bloom, making the landscape more beautiful. There are many myths about this season, one of them is that of Persephone.

In the spring, the landscape is much more beautiful. Photo: Pixabay

Myths about spring

In Greek mythology, Persephone was the daughter of Zeus and Demeter, the goddess of fertility. She was a charming young woman kidnapped by Hades, who ruled the underworld, and she was forced to become his wife. Zeus tried to help the young woman and negotiated with his brother, Hades, so that he would free his daughter because when she is with her mother, the trees bear fruit, and everything turns green.

The pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico developed great knowledge about the observation of the stars. “For the Mayans, spring represented the beginning of the planting season”, says Ernesto Vargas Pacheco from the UNAM Anthropological Research Institute.

The meaning of these names selected for you evokes that renewal that the myths of ancient civilizations speak of.

In many cultures, spring is associated with renewal. Photo: Pixabay

Do not miss: Eight basic garments for spring

Letters A-L

Abril: Derived from the Latin aprilis, it refers to flowers, nature, and good weather.
Amber: It is the name of a precious stone generated from the resin of a tree. It is associated with beauty and light. It comes from Arabic.
Aurora: It comes from Latin; it means
Aviv: Of Hebrew origin, it means
Aviva: It is Hebrew; it means fresh and moist.
Aya: Arabic name that means to weave silk; it means colorful in Japanese.
Belinda: Although its origin is uncertain, it is believed that it comes from the Italian beautiful and cute; its meaning is of great beauty, such as spring, which is a very beautiful season.
Carmen: It means garden of god; it is of Latin origin.
Chloe: Derived from the Greek Khloé, which means green herb.
Claire: It’s French and means bright and clear.
Dalia: Of Greek origin, it means beautiful woman; it is also the name of a flower considered among the most beautiful ones.
Flor: It is a derivative of the Latin Floris.
Flora: Its origin comes from Latin; it means
Kelby: Of Nordic origin, it is derived from the words Kelda (spring or fountain) and byr (town), which means the town of the spring.
Lily: It’s English; it means lily. This flower is associated with purity and love. The Greeks gave lilies to women to wish them a hopeful life.

These names have beautiful meanings. Photo: Pixabay

Letters M-Z

Magnolia: It comes from Latin and means flowering tree.
Maia: We also owe this name to the Greeks; it means With Zeus, she had the messenger god Hermes as a son.
Margarita: It comes from Latin; it is the name of a flower.
Melissa: Its meaning is the bee that brings honey. According to Greek mythology, this was the name given to the nymph who discovered how to collect honey.
Nari: It’s Korean; it means lily flower.
Olivia: Derived from the Latin olivus. It means olive branch.
Rosana: Of Persian origin, it means she who is like the rose.
Rosaura: It comprises the Latin words rosae (pink) and aurum (gold). Its meaning is the golden rose.
Thalía: It is of Greek origin; its meaning is the one that flourishes.
Verdi: In Italian means
Vesna: she is the Slavic goddess of spring; the meaning is the messenger.
Violet: It means the modest; it comes from Latin. Also, it is a beautiful flower.
Zahira: Of Arabic origin, it means the one who has flourished.

These girl names will help you in your search. Which one did you like? Tell us on Facebook.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish versión: Here

7 Rituals to welcome spring

Posted on 14/03/2022 - 19:16 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

At the beginning of March, you know that winter is about to end, and with it that cold, gloomy weather, you want to renew yourself and charge energy to meet your goals. These rituals to welcome spring will help you prepare to greet this time of year.

After winter, you look forward to the warmth, flowers, and all the color of the season. You should know that this 2022 spring begins on March 20^th at 3:33 p.m. The spring equinox is a phenomenon that occurs every year between March 19^th and 21^st, explains the National Institute of Astrophysics, Optics, and Electronics (INAOE).

This year spring begins on March 20th. Photo: Pixabay

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What is the spring equinox?

“It is an astrological phenomenon in which the day and night last the same (12 hours); the sun’s light hits directly on the Equator. At the moment the Earth meets the Equator, this balance is achieved”, details Daniel Flores Gutiérrez, an academic from the UNAM Institute of Astronomy.

“For ancient civilizations, the balance between day and night is an ideal time for human beings to balance their passions and weaknesses and strengthen their minds and bodies”, explains Jesús Galindo Trejo, a researcher at the UNAM. This belief is still valid; that’s why many people prepare for the equinox.

“The registration of these movements was an important practice for ancient civilizations, and it is still today since it allows us to identify certain astronomical phenomena such as the equinoxes”.

Ancient civilizations believed that the equinox was an opportunity to balance weaknesses and passions. Photo: Pixabay

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We have compiled these popular rituals to receive spring and charge you with energy:

Clean your home

Fix your space, sweep every corner of your house, dust, and throw away what doesn’t work. You can even rearrange the furniture to give your home a new touch.

Meditate to attract the good

Choose a quiet and comfortable place you can play soft music. Get into a relaxed position and close your eyes. As you inhale and exhale, think of everything you would like to achieve, at work, sentimentally, and with your family. Focus on your breath. Be thankful for everything you have and think that you are about to start a new cycle.

As you meditate, visualize everything you want. Photo: Pixabay

White clothes

It is one of the most common rituals. It is believed that wearing white clothes during the spring equinox attracts purity and recharges you with energy.

Plant good wishes

On the equinox day, look for a tree in your house or a nearby park. Dig a small hole and put a folded piece of paper in it on which you write what you want to improve in your life, then put in a coin and an old key. Bury the objects, and ask the tree to revive those little gifts. Be grateful for everything you have; you will see that changes soon happen in your life.

Bury a piece of paper next to a tree, where you have written your wishes. Photo: Pixabay

A white candle for good intentions

On a piece of paper, write what you want for the beginning of this season. Gather a little of the four elements: Place a container with water, another with earth, an empty glass to represent the air, and a candle, whose flame will represent the fire where you will burn the paper with your desire. While you do it, think about what you wrote; when you visualize it, you fill yourself with energy to achieve it.

Plants to attract good energy

Find a pot and decorate it. Choose a plant you like; it can be aloe vera, basil, rosemary, thyme (since they trap negative energies), or whatever you want. On the day of the equinox, plant it in the pot.

Plants ward off negative energies and beautify your space. Photo: Pixabay

It may interest you: Eight basic garments for spring

A purifying bath

Nothing better than a shower to feel refreshed. For this ritual, you will need rue, sage, and eucalyptus. Boil water and put a little of each, wait for the infusion to cool, and take a bath with it. In this way, you will improve your mood and ward off negative energies.

Prepare an infusion with herbs such as rue and aloe vera; you will purify yourself and have positive energy. Photo. pixabay

Do you already know what rituals you will do? Let us know on Facebook if you know more ways to prepare for the arrival of spring.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

Names for girls inspired by goddesses

Posted on 12/03/2022 - 10:34 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Your daughter is about to be born; you have thought of many ideas, but none of them convinces you. If you are looking for a strong meaning, these names for girls inspired by goddesses will help you choose.

Be it Greek, Egyptian, Nordic mythology, or the pre-Hispanic cultures of our country; there are outstanding goddesses associated with creative forces. Still, they were also related to intelligence, war, and love.

Importance of the goddesses

In Greek mythology, deities such as Athena, the goddess of wisdom, war, and justice, were revered. The role that goddesses play in mythological stories is very similar to that of women in Greek civilization, which explains the Goddesses of Greek Mythology research.

In the Mexica culture, the goddesses represented a balance complemented by the male deities, explains Paola Angélica Sosa Salazar, educational advisor to the Museo del Templo Mayor.

Goddesses were very important to ancient civilizations. Photo: Pixabay

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There are precious stories and beliefs behind the goddesses of each culture, so these names for girls have beautiful meanings.

Letters A-D

Afrodita: Greek goddess of love and beauty.
Amunet: In Egyptian mythology, she is the deity of mystery.
Artemisa: The eldest daughter of Zeus, she is the goddess of the hunt, of wild animals, of the forest, and births.
Asteria: Greek goddess of prophecies and oracles.
Atenea: In Greek civilization, she was the goddess of wisdom, war, science, and justice.
Aura: For the Romans, she was the deity of the breeze.
Aurora: In Rome, she was the goddess of dawn.
Bastet: For the Egyptians, goddess of the home, feminine secrets, cats, fertility, and childbirth.
Cárites: Greek goddess of beauty and grace.
Ceres: In Roman culture, the deity of crops.
Cihuacoatl: Serpent woman, goddess of motherhood in Mexica mythology.
Circe: Greek goddess of magic and sorcery.
Citlalicue: For the Mexicas, she was the deity of the Milky Way.
Cloris: Greek goddess of gardens and flowers.
Coatlicue: She was the goddess of mother earth in the Aztec cosmogony.
Dayami: In Nahuatl, it means Goddess of the river.
Delia: Goddess Artemis’s nickname, she was born on the island of Delos.
Deméter: Greek goddess of the earth and crops.
Diana: Roman goddess of the hunt.
Dione: According to the Greeks, she is the deity of fertility, the mother of Zeus.

Do not miss: Indigenous names inspired by the stars

Goddess names have beautiful meanings. Photo: Pixabay

Letters E-L

Edesia: In Roman mythology, she was the deity dedicated to caring for children and feeding them.
Eir: Norse goddess associated with medical skills. This name means Protection, Help.
Elpis: Greek goddess of hope.
Eris: According to the Greeks, she was the deity of conflict and dispute.
Eyra: Scandinavian goddess of health.
Febe: Greek goddess of intellect and prophecy.
Fortuna: The Roman goddess of fate.
Freya: In Norse mythology, she is the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.
Gaia/Gea: Greek goddess of the earth.
Ganga: In Hinduism, she is the deity of the river Ganges.
Harmonía: Greek divinity of harmony and concord.
Hebe: Greek deity of youth.
Hera: For the Greeks, the queen of Olympus, the protector of family and marriage.
Idalia: This is how the Roman goddess Venus was nicknamed, meaning I saw the sun.
Irene: Roman culture considered her the deity of peace and wealth.
Iris: Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of Olympus.
Isis: The Greeks knew the Egyptian divinity of motherhood with this name.
Itzamara: For the Mayans, goddess of the stars.
Ixchel: In the Mayan culture, the deity of childbirth and fertility as well as medicine, the arts, and the fertility of the earth.
Juno: Roman goddess of motherhood.
Kali: For Hindus, she represents the destruction of evil and demons.
Lakshmi: Hindu deity of fortune, virtue, and beauty.
Leto: Along with her sister Asteria, they were worshiped as Greek goddesses of the night.
Lua: Roman goddess of atonement and forgiveness.

In various cultures, there are very important goddesses. Photo: Pixabay

We recommend: Indigenous names inspired by the stars

Letters M-X

Minerva: Roman goddess of wisdom, the thinker.
Naab: In the Mayan culture, the serpent goddess of the waters.
Nanna: For the Norse, she represented joy and peace.
Neftis: For the Egyptians, the deity of death, darkness, and pro
Nike: Greek goddess of victory.
Nix: The Greek culture revered her as a divinity of the night.
Parvati: Goddess of food and inner strength in the culture of India.
Perséfone: Queen of the underworld and goddess of spring.
Rea: Greek goddess of nature.
Sati: In Hinduism, she is the goddess of happiness in marriage and longevity.
Selene: She is one of the three Greek goddesses of the Moon.
Silvia: Of Roman origin, she is the mother of the founders of this city: Romulus and Remus. Its meaning of it is related to forests and nature.
Tonantzin: In the Aztec cosmogony, mother goddess of nature and death.
Venus: Roman goddess of love.
Vesta: Roman goddess of architecture, sacred fire, home, state, and family.
Xareni: Of Otomi origin, she was a goddess of love. It means Princess of the forest.
Xochiquetzal: According to the Mexicas, she is the goddess of flowers, love, and the arts.
Yuritzi: Of Mayan origin, it means Goddess of the moonbeam.

Fertility, love, and beauty are qualities of the goddesses of various cultures. Photo: Pxhere

What do you think of these goddess-inspired girl names? Tell us on Facebook which one is your favorite.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Goodbye to the chancla culture! What is it like to educate with effective parenting?

Posted on 10/03/2022 - 19:39 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

“Behave yourself, or you’ll see what happens to you.” Perhaps this is a phrase you remember from childhood, either because they told it to you or you heard it shouted at someone you know. You likely grew up seeing, as a common thing, that parents spanked children when they had tantrums. You know, threatening with the chancla (flip flop) is so well known that it is the subject of memes to this day. However, in recent years, new ways to raise children have emerged, one of them being effective parenting. Bye to violent corrective methods!

Violence in parenting is often justified because that is how children have been raised for many years. Grandparents, parents, even you were raised that way, but you don’t have to repeat those patterns with your children.

We recommend: Spanking children can cause depression and mental disorders

For generations, it has been thought that violent discipline breeds “good children.” Photo: Shutterstock — For generations, it has been thought that violent discipline breeds “good children”. Photo: Shutterstock

The impact of violence on children

In recent years, much thought has been given to the impact that violence and punishment have on the upbringing of children.

According to UNICEF data, in Mexico, at least six out of ten children between the ages of one and 14 have suffered violence as a method of discipline. The belief that “the stricter the parents are, the better the children” is widespread and entrenched, as the study “Physical punishment in parenting. A comparative study”.

The research carried out by the Federico Gómez Children’s Hospital of Mexico reveals that minors disciplined with violence tend to develop behavior problems, are aggressive, the parent-child relationship is affected, and find it difficult to live with others. Therefore, you should think twice before applying a “corrective method” to your children since it leaves traces that are difficult to repair and last a lifetime.

“Physical corrective methods are not accepted measures. It is worth promoting its reduction by modifying inappropriate beliefs and learning more respectful and effective means to exercise adequate control of the behavior of minors”.

Violent discipline breeds aggressive children. Photo: Shutterstock

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What is effective parenting?

When your son is having a monumental tantrum in which he throws himself in the street, kicks, and screams so loud that the people around him turn to see him, it is tough to stay calm and not explode. Take a break and breathe!

The effective parenting method seeks to prevent you from exploding with your child to understand his needs according to his stage of development, the reason for his irritation, and find a solution. The objective is that you can positively influence your child’s behavior without using blows or threats.

Gabriela González and Luis Carlos Flores, psychotherapists and creators of this method, explain that understanding the meaning of each of the little ones’ misbehavior and working on their emotions will help you address those feelings effectively.

“It’s easy to fall back into old, outdated parenting patterns and don’t work today; instead, they worsen problems at home. Today, children are exposed to a different world, and, likely, what your children need from you is not what they are receiving.”

Gabriela González, psychotherapist

Each stage of development leaves traces on the character of children. Photo: Pixabay

Steps to achieve effective parenting

The creators of this method comment that the keys to achieving effective parenting are the following:

Parenting and behavioral styles: Learn to identify and apply the parental leadership style you need to achieve the behaviors you want in your children.
The four fundamentals: Identify the causes of their behavior, tantrums, rebellion, fear, or apathy; this will help you understand their needs and that each stage of development leaves a mark on their character.
Family system: You need to detect your role within your family; in this way, you will begin to sort out the responsibilities in your home to see dysfunctional patterns.
Family code: You must build and practice the key statements that will define how to generate harmony in the home you have always wanted.
Strategies and limits: According to your child’s behavior, you must apply a strategy since each action tries to tell you something.

Identifying the root of your child's misbehavior will help you find solutions. Photo: Pixabay — Identifying the root of your child’s misbehavior will help you find solutions. Photo: Pixabay

It may interest you: Parenting style: how does it influence the development and behavior of children?

As a parent, the influence you have in raising your children is very important; your actions will affect their behavior. Tell us on Facebook how you deal with your children’s tantrums.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

10 Things a father should do with his daughter

Posted on 10/03/2022 - 15:17 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Today, the little girl you have in your arms will grow up in less than you expect and become a woman. Take advantage of every opportunity to be with her: play, have fun, learn together… every moment is valuable! We leave you this list of 10 things that a father should do with his daughter, recommendations so that every moment becomes unforgettable.

Men do get involved in parenting

The view of fatherhood has changed. The figure of the scolding father of yesteryear, who used to complain about what his children did, the one who only contributed money to the house and who did not get involved, has been changing. “More and more men are interested in parenting development”, says psychologist Michael Lamb, author of The Father’s Role in Child Development.

Dads play a vital role in parenting. Photo: Shutterstock — A father plays a vital role in parenting his daughter. Photo: Shutterstock

Dad has an impact not only on the development of the girls’ personality but also on their self-confidence, as explained by the Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Development.

It can even influence their love relationships. Women who have a good relationship with their fathers will look for their partners to look like them, as revealed by research carried out by the University of Durham. Lynda Boothroyd, a psychologist at that institution, points out that the quality of the daughter-father relationship affects who she finds attractive.

“Our brains don’t just generate prototypes of the ideal face from those we see around us; we generate them from people we’ve had an intensely positive relationship with”.

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The relationship with dad can influence love relationships. Photo: Pixabay — The relationship with dad can influence love relationships. Things a father should do with his daughter. Photo: Pixabay

We compiled some tips for you and ideas of things you should do with your daughter; with this, you will strengthen the relationship with your little girl and help her be a strong woman.

10 Things a father should do with his daughter

1. Quality time

Sometimes work, and obligations absorb you, don’t let that stop you from being with your daughter. Find space to do things together: go to the movies, the park, or watch her favorite show. Time flies by; that girl who today asks you for help to tie her shoelaces, in a few years, she will ask you for permission to go out with her boyfriend.

2. Listen to her and pay attention to what she tells you

Whether she tells you about something she saw or about her schoolmates, please pay attention to everything she says; this way, she will know that you care about her and trust you.

3. Encourage her to practice any sport

If she likes soccer, karate, boxing, or skateboarding, encourage her and tell her that she’s capable of anything she puts her mind to. It doesn’t matter if people say that these are boys’ things; support her if she likes this activity. That way, she will know from a young age that she is just as capable as boys, and she will not limit herself.

One of the 10 Things a father should do with his daughter: Encourage her to practice whatever activity she wants. Photo: Pixabay

4. Let her know how valuable she is

Don’t miss the opportunity to tell her that she is intelligent, talented, and pretty, that she is perfect just the way she is. This way, you feed her confidence in herself.

5. Get to know her

From knowing her favorite color, her favorite ice cream flavor, or her favorite subjects to asking her for her little friends’ names or remembering the name of her teachers. Those details will help you get to know her and get involved in her life.

6. Take her by the hand

Hold her hand; this gesture will make her feel protected and that she can count on you in any situation.

Do not waste moments to be with your daughter. Photo: Pixabay

7. Play together

Not only is it a way for your daughter to learn, but you build her trust in you and help you get to know her better. In addition, you create beautiful memories.

8. Respect her mom

Regardless of whether you are a couple, always show respect towards her mother. As we mentioned above, you are her first reference to a male figure, so she must see that you respect her mother.

9. Get her involved in repairs

Whether she’s helping you put together a piece of furniture, put up a shelf, or check out the car, get her involved in the things you do, even home repairs. Teach her how to do what you are doing; in this way, you provide her with skills for her adult life and give her some lessons of independence.

By teaching your child to make repairs, you help her become self-sufficient. Photo: Shutterstock

10. Let her make her decisions

With daily choices like what to wear, what movie to watch, or how to do her hair, you help her make her own decisions and give her a vote of confidence that what she thinks matters a lot. Trust what she chooses and avoid judging her; with this, you will make her a strong and determined woman.

Every moment you spend with your daughter will be a precious memory that you will treasure. Which of these things do you do with your daughter? Tell us on Facebook.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

20 Quotes of powerful women

Posted on 08/03/2022 - 17:01 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Today we can study, work, be business owners or be in charge of a company, but this was not always the case. The path for us to decide on our lives has not been easy, and there are still many challenges to overcome. We remember some phrases of powerful women because they paved the way and are inspirational.

March 8^th is International Women’s Day as established by the United Nations (UN) World Organization in 1977. This date was chosen because, in 1908, workers at the Cotton Textile Factory in New York went on strike, demanding better working conditions.

The women locked themselves inside the factory, but a fire caused the death of more than 140 workers who could not escape the fire.

Although there have been many limitations for women throughout history, and today we still have, we find significant figures who changed history. We leave you their best quotes.

We recommend: Letter to my daughter on International Women’s Day

In 1977 the UN declared March 8 as International Women's Day. Photo: Shutterstock — In 1977 the UN declared March 8 as International Women’s Day. Photo: Shutterstock

To fight without limitations

“One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman”. Simone de Beauvoir, philosopher.
“A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult”. Melinda Gates, Philanthropist.
“Women feel like they need permission…We need to lead and change that”. Emma Watson, actress.
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s the power of using your voice”. Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States.
“Knowing what must be done does away with fear”. Rosa Parks, activist.
“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud”. Coco Chanel, designer.
“I do not wish women to have power over men, but over themselves”. Mary Shelley, writer.
“There is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of my mind”. Virginia Woolf, writer.
“Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We are stronger when we cheer each other on”. Serena Williams, tennis player.
“If you let your fears out, you will have more space to live your dreams”. Marilyn Monroe, actress.

Do not miss: What do we celebrate on March 8?

Women can do anything they set their minds to. Photo: Shutterstock

Free women

“To be liberated, woman must feel free to be herself, not in rivalry to man, but in the context of her own capacity and her personality”. Indira Gandhi, politician.
“You cannot hope to build a better world without improving the individuals. To that end, each of us must work for our own improvement”. Marie Curie, scientist.
“Blindness cuts us off from things, but deafness cuts us off from people”. Hellen Keller, activist.
“I have never loved anyone the way I love myself, so no one has been able to make me suffer”. María Félix, actress.
“There was a time when you walked alone, wrote alone, studied alone, and dressed alone. Remember that moment”. Monique Wittig, philosopher.
“Independence is happiness”. Susan B. Anthony, defender of Human Rights.
“I am no bird, and no net ensnares me. I am a free human being with an independent will”. Charlotte Brönte, novelist.
“The only way for a woman, as for a man, to find herself, to know herself as a person, is by creative work of her own”. Betty Friedan, writer.
“I paint self-portraits because I am the person I know best”. Frida Kahlo, painter.
“We must tell our young women that their voices matter”. Malala Yousafzai, activist.

Did you already know these quotes of powerful women? Tell us on Facebook which one you liked the most.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

At what age can babies hold their heads?

Posted on 08/03/2022 - 14:03 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Every day in your child’s life is a discovery. Seeing him move his arms and the sounds he makes to try to communicate with you fills you with emotion and many doubts. His movements raise many questions, and one of them is at what age babies can hold their heads and how you can help.

The first weeks of children’s lives are very important; they develop in surprising ways. They begin to acquire skills and movements that emerge very quickly; this is called “motor development”.

The motor development of children begins with the head and progresses little by little through the body. Gross motor skills are the big movements that your little one makes, allowing them to move, generate balance and then be able to walk, explains Cecilia Aguilar, a child neurologist.

“Motricity develops little by little; in the first two months, the baby manages to hold his head as you stimulate him. Massages are very important. At three months, he begins to roll over in bed. At four months, they begin to sit. Between six and seven months, they manage to sit up, so they can eat more things”.

We recommend: When can a baby sit up?

Motor development begins with the head. Photo: Pixabay

Your baby’s movements will be given little by little until he develops enough strength in his muscles. You must help him move with games. The American Academy of Pediatrics details what the baby’s movements are like:

First month: Babies cannot control many movements; they can move their heads to the sides to look for their mother’s breast. They don’t have good neck control, so they need your help to hold their head.
Two months: Most children can lift their heads when lying on their stomachs; frequently, putting babies in this position help strengthen their neck and trunk.
Four months: There is greater strength in the neck muscles; they can now hold their head.

Dr. Sydney Greenawalt, a pediatrician who graduated from the National Institute of Pediatrics, explains that by the fourth month, in addition to controlling their heads, babies can keep their eyes fixed, smile, and bring their hands to the center of their body, and grasp objects.

Do not miss: Practical tips for your baby to leave the diaper behind

At four months, the baby can hold his head. Photo: Pixabay

Head control and its importance

One of the most important moments in a child’s development is controlling his head, also called cephalic control, which consists of keeping this part of the body in a vertical position concerning his trunk, details Efisiopediatric Institution.

That your baby holds his head is an outstanding achievement. Visual development depends on it; that is, he can follow objects with his eyes and the coordination between what he sees and his movements. It is also important for him to eat other foods besides breast milk.

Head control is key to other movements. Photo: Pixabay

It may interest you: Give your baby a massage and strengthen the emotional bond

When should we visit the doctor?

Every child is different, so that some skills may be developed faster, and others may be late; that is normal. Mayo Clinic advises going to the doctor if you notice the following signs:

He has stiff or tense muscles.
He looks too flaccid.
When trying to reach objects, he uses only one hand.
He has not shown any improvement in head control.
He does not respond to sounds, such as being startled by sudden loud noises.
He does not try to reach objects or put them in his mouth.
He does not attempt to roll over or sit up.
One or both eyes constantly turn in or out.
He doesn’t babble.
He does not seem to enjoy being around people or smiles spontaneously.

Tell us on Facebook if your baby can hold his head up.

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Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Does stopping breastfeeding cause you to gain weight?

Posted on 07/03/2022 - 16:16 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Your body goes through many changes after bringing your baby into the world. Breastfeeding also involves physical modifications to be able to feed your child. But what happens when this stage ends? You may wonder if stopping breastfeeding causes you to gain weight. We will tell you what is happening.

Surely you have heard that breastfeeding helps you lose the kilos you gained during pregnancy, and it is true; there is a relationship between breastfeeding and weight loss, as indicated by the study Breastfeeding reduces postpartum weight retention.

Research reveals that breastfeeding helps lose the kilos gained during pregnancy, especially in the first six months after giving birth; however, this depends on the Body Mass Index (BMI) that you had before getting pregnant, how long you breastfeed your baby, and what you eat during these stages.

Elizabeth LaFleur, a lactation consultant, and Mayo Clinic fellow, says that when you breastfeed, you use fat cells stored in your body during pregnancy and calories from your diet to stimulate milk production and feed your baby.

“Weight loss during lactation can occur even when you follow the recommendations to consume an additional 300 to 500 calories per day to maintain energy and milk production.”

We recommend: How many kilos can I gain during pregnancy?

Yes, you can lose weight while breastfeeding. Photo: Shutterstock

What happens when I stop breastfeeding?

Are you wondering if stopping breastfeeding causes you to gain weight? When you breastfeed, you should know that you burn around 500 calories a day to produce breast milk; it makes you more hungry than usual, so you eat more. Once you stop lactating, your needs change, but your body is used to consuming those extra calories, explains nutritionist Paola Figari.

“This is the most difficult thing, to stop eating the largest or most frequent portions you have been eating for nine months of pregnancy, plus the lactating time. This change can take time because you need to know your body and its needs again, so don’t pressure yourself to do it quickly.”

The hormonal changes that occur after breastfeeding alter your metabolism. Prolactin, the hormone responsible for producing breast milk, is reduced, and, in its place, estrogen levels rise. Therefore, your body continues to send hunger signals, Figari details.

“Although your priorities often focus on taking care of your baby, it is essential that you do not leave your health aside. Getting back into a healthy eating and exercise routine can take time, but you can do it with help and inner work.”

She advises having foods rich in nutrients, keeping a balanced diet, and incorporating cardio and resistance exercises, which will help you level hormonal imbalances.

A balanced diet and physical activity will help you maintain your weight. Photo: Pixabay

Don’t miss: Food during pregnancy: What can you eat?

How can you control your weight after breastfeeding?

“It is important that you consider that there is an immediate weight loss of approximately 6 kilos after childbirth. After this, you will lose the rest little by little, around 400 and 900 grams per month, during the first six months after delivery, and then it will be even slower”, says Elizabeth LaFleur.

“It often takes six to nine months to lose the weight gained during pregnancy.”

LaFleur recommends keeping a healthy diet with a variety of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables and drinking plenty of water. Avoid foods with added sugars and saturated fats such as soft drinks, desserts, cheeses, whole milk, and fatty meats. You can also do moderate physical activity.

Physical activity will help you control your weight. Photo: Pixabay

“If you want to lose more weight after six months of breastfeeding, you can carefully restrict your calories as your baby begins to eat more solid foods while you continue to breastfeed.”

Remember that each body is different and that a balanced diet and physical activity are key to losing weight. Do not hesitate to ask for help, approach a specialist.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish versión: Here

Find out which animated character your child looks like at school

Posted on 04/03/2022 - 15:16 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

School is a very important place for your children’s lives since they not only acquire knowledge such as adding, reading, and writing. They also live with other children and develop social skills. We leave you these descriptions so that together you can discover which animated character your child is, based on his behavior at school.

After home, kindergarten or elementary school are where children spend the most time. This is where they learn to be aware of the feelings of others and to follow the rules (such as respecting when others speak, keeping silent, etc.), reveals the research Importance of social skills in Early Childhood Education.

Get together with your little rascals and find out which animated character they are!

Chase from Paw Patrol

He can be very serious when studying, but he is much more relaxed during break time when he plays with his friends. He likes to explore and find lost things, and he is very loyal.

Chase, Paw Patrol — This character is the protagonist of many adventures. Photo: Paramount Pictures

Panda from We Bare Bears

He is very enthusiastic and tender. His friends are the most important thing, and he stays by their side to help them overcome difficulties. He loves technology but never misses an opportunity to use his imagination.

Panda always supports his friends. Photo: Cartoon Network

Masha, from Masha and the Bear

She runs and jumps all day long; she is very friendly as she likes to have someone to play with. She may seem a little restless, but that’s because she learns with every experience. She is affectionate with animals and takes great care of them.

Amaya/Ululette, from PJ Masks

She is very diligent in class and with her homework. She defends her friends above all and fights against injustice to find the truth.

Sponge Bob, from Sponge Bob

He may seem restless and distracted, but he is very responsible with all his chores. He is participative and very friendly with all his colleagues. With his friends, he is very loyal.

Mabel from Gravity Falls

She pays attention to details others don’t see, so she helps her friends solve mysteries. She always has kind comments for everyone around her; she is very noble and loves making new friends.

Pocoyo, from Pocoyo

Curiosity is his main characteristic. He may seem naughty, but he likes to explore and learn new things. He uses his imagination to play with his friends. He is cheerful and smiling.

Molly from Bubble Guppies

Listening and helping her friends are her main qualities. She is kind to her classmates and gets along with everyone. Although she likes to make new friends, that does not prevent her from being very committed and accomplished with her tasks.

What are your favorite cartoons? Tell us if you related your rascal to any animated character.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver

Spanish version

What do we celebrate on March 8?

Posted on 04/03/2022 - 09:50 by Astrid Rivera Reynoso

Imagine that just because you were a woman, you couldn’t study or work, that your only choice was to be at home. For many years it was like that. On March 8, we remember the fight for equal opportunities between women and men so that girls have a better future.

Today, women make their decisions and perform any activity. However, this date reminds us that the battle for equality is constant and that there are still many challenges to overcome, such as gender violence.

We recommend: How to empower your girls

Why March 8?

This day was chosen by the World Organization of the United Nations (UN). In 1977, it officially declared International Women’s Day to commemorate the history of women’s rights movements.

In 1979, the UN approved the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). All the countries that are part of the organization promised to take action to promote gender equality.

On March 8, the fight for women's rights was commemorated. Photo: Pixabay — On March 8, the fight for women’s rights was commemorated.

Photo: Pixabay

And in Mexico?

The struggle has been long, but women have made their way in school and at work in our country, showing that they have the same capacity as men. More than half of the female population belongs to the labor sector, and 39% have management positions in the social, private, or public sectors. They own a third of the small businesses in Mexico.

Even though they gain more space in sectors that were previously only considered for men little by little, things have not changed much when women get home. There is still inequality in the time that women dedicate to housework since, according to the National Institute of Geography and Statistics (Inegi), they spend 13.4 hours a week on these tasks.

In addition, violence against the female population continues. From January to May 2021, more than 106,000 cases of family violence were reported, while 13,631 women fled home with their children due to domestic violence, according to the National Public Security System (SNSP).

Do not miss: Ten books to turn your girls into powerful women

More and more women are in management positions. Photo: Pixabay

Fight from home

This space is very important to promote equality between girls and boys without gender roles influencing their upbringing. The family tends to reinforce the difference between genders since the little girls are assigned tasks related to taking care of the house and others. At the same time, the boys are involved in activities that foster competition, which explains the Gender role and family functioning.

Marisol Pérez Ramos, a researcher at the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM), recommends not limiting girls in their activities and tastes or limiting them to household chores in which all family members must participate.

“These types of limitations tell you about gender violence and the fact that girls are the ones who serve the food or do the chores. Nor should we tell them always to be nice or kind because it is a way of conditioning their behavior.”

Teach your daughters that they can practice any sport. Photo: Pixabay

She also advises not to compare daughters with boys, as this limits them and reproduces gender stereotypes and expectations of how they should act like women.

The fight for equality is every day; teach your little girl that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to and can make her decisions.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

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