The moment that you saw your child for the first time was probably one of the greatest experiences you have ever had. There is no connection stronger than the one that is between a parent and their child. Use the child-rearing advice in this article so the connection and relationship you have with your child remains as strong as it can.

If you clear a spot on the kitchen countertop, next to the sink, you can lay your child on a towel there and wash his hair and scalp under the faucet. This can make hair washing fun and reduce the fear of getting water in his eyes or poured over him.

Although it is important to spend time with your kids, it is also important to take time for yourself. Occasional time alone will help you maintain your own identity.

Going from one activity to another can be difficult for very small children. Switching abruptly from one task to another can often be very stressful and result in melt-downs.

Infants and young children should not be given either diet or regular sodas. Instead, choose beverages that provide nutrients, like milk, juice without added sugar, and water.

By setting firm, yet positive, boundaries and rules for your children you can avoid a lot of family discord and everyone will get along better. Instead of saying “don’t hit,” try saying “touch gently.”

If a toddler is becoming bored with his or her toys or isn’t playing with them as much, rotate them. Unless the toy in question is a cherished favorite, most objects fail to hold toddlers’ interests for more than a day or so. By taking out some of their forgotten toys from the bottom of their toy chest, you can keep their interest.

Children want to be useful, to belong, and to have a sense of autonomy. When you provide them with household chores to do while you do your chores, you help them attain these goals. For example, if you are washing dishes, allow your child to dry them. If you are folding the laundry, give your little one a pile of socks to sort out. The tasks will help them feel as though they are being independent, while giving you a hand.

When traveling with small children, it will be easier to get through the security process if you use the line designated specifically for families. Many airports today have such lines. Going through this separate line will allow you to take a little more time without having to interact with other grumpy travelers. Everything that is going on the plane with you from car seats to shoes, needs to go thru the x-ray machine.

If you and your child can build a healthy relationship while they are still young, it will carry on to their teenage years, allowing for positive and meaningful communication between the two of you. Utilize some of the ideas provided in this document to establish a relationship with your child, or strengthen the existing relationship.