Toddlers: Out of the stroller!

Spending an hour with Mom or Dad toddling along a garden path or even a sidewalk is far better than being bundled into the car to dash off to an expensive Mommy & Me class.

Take the time to let your toddler crawl, creep, walk and explore his or her way around the environment. Name items you encounter together. "A small leaf." "Two brown ants." "A pebble." Everything is a learning experience and nothing in this time is wasted. There is no need to hurry or accomplish any particular goal. Just let your child take the lead in exploring the area and follow along!