First thing first, make sure your child is ready to begin potty training. If your little one can remain dry for at least two hours, bring you a new diaper on their own when they need changing, or demonstrate the ability to follow a sequence of simple instructions, they could be ready for the potty. Other signs of a child who’s ready to give up diapers are a kid who expresses interest in potty training, expresses discomfort in a wet diaper, can indicate when they need to go, or can walk to the bathroom alone and undress themselves.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all method to potty training, so most parents go through a process of trial and error until they find what works for their child. Some ideas are positive reinforcement, videos, songs, potty training pants, and routine trips to the bathroom.

If your child expresses frustration with potty training and requests a diaper, try to remind them of their past successes. Be empathetic, listen, and remind your child of the progress they’ve made.

Be firm but gentle that this is a task your child can and will master. Finally, be consistent. Make sure that your kid knows temper tantrums aren’t going to work, and they’re going to get the hang of potty training. After all, you believe in them!

Discovering your child has a head lice infestation can be concerning, but it’s a common issue that many parents face. Here is everything you need to know about these little hair pests.

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the human scalp and feed on blood. They can’t fly or jump, but they crawl from head to head in close contact. Lice have a life cycle with three stages – eggs (nits), nymphs, and adult lice. Remember, lice don’t spread diseases, and anyone can get them, regardless of hygiene.

Lice can’t fly or hop, so they mainly spread through direct head-to-head contact during play or sleepovers. Contrary to myths, they don’t spread through personal items like hats or brushes, nor do they attach to pets.

Itching is the most common sign of a lice infestation, caused by a reaction to lice saliva. Children might complain about itching behind the ears or neck. Other symptoms include a tickling sensation, irritability, difficulty sleeping due to itching, and scalp soreness from scratching.

Should your child complain of excessive itching, you can perform a lice check at home. Set up a well-lit environment or use a lamp. Section the hair into smaller portions. Utilize a fine-tooth comb (nit comb) to inspect the scalp, areas behind the ears, and the neck. Look out for nits adhered to hair strands or crawling lice near the scalp.

If lice are found, take prompt action. Use over-the-counter treatments and follow the instructions given on the pack. Note that essential oils and other home remedies are not proven to work and can be dangerous.

Lice are common among children, teens, and adults. To prevent the spread of lice, wash clothes, hats, towels, and linen used before treatment. Vacuum carpets and furniture, bag items that can’t be washed for two weeks. Examine all individuals in close proximity for signs of lice. While lice infestations do not constitute a medical emergency, it’s worth considering medical assistance if your child is below two years old, if you are uncertain about treatment, if over-the-counter and home treatments prove ineffective, or if the scalp becomes infected due to scratching. Remember, lice are treatable, and seeking assistance is a proactive step toward resolving the issue.