Kellie Normington, pictured with daughter Lily, and Caren Watts will soon launch their book Tuning in to Toddlers with advice on how to raise a happy child. 87089 Picture: MATHEW LYNN
By NATALIE GALLENTI
PARENTS, carers and educators dealing with toddlers know just how much enjoyment they can bring into one’s life. They also know they can be a bit of hard work.
With this in mind the directors of Caroline Springs business Practical Outcomes Kellie Normington and Caren Watts wrote a book that is sure to prompt discussion for the people who love, live and work with toddlers.
Practical Outcomes is a training facility for businesses and individuals working in children’s services.
Ms Normington said the idea behind the book, Tuning in to Toddlers, was a long time coming and something educators and parents alike will be able to use.
“People buy enormous text books and never read them. This book is mainly pictorial and easy to read.”
While the book is designed for students in the children’s services industry, Kellie believes parents will take a lot out of it.
She said the book highlights the importance of watching and listening to toddlers with an open mind and following their cues to build on their interests and strengths.
Ms Normington, who has more than 23 years of experience working in the early childhood sector, said the best thing parents can do is provide toddlers with a predictable routine that makes them feel secure.
And she said despite their good intentions parents need to understand that sometimes toddlers simply can’t share, so always remember to provide more than one bucket and spade at the beach when there are two toddlers around.
