Let's Take a Time-Out

 

In our home, time-outs are a common .

We realize it is not the most effective consequences for most children, but for our son the elimination of sensory stimulation is vital. Too much visual, auditory, or physical stimulation can put Lil' Monster into overdrive, and the end result is a major melt down followed by hours of trying to pull things back together.

 

Time-outs are the perfect solution to discipline for him.  It allows him to gather self-control and calm down. We have designated a few spots in our home where Lil' Monster can sit or stand facing a wall, thereby eliminating stimulation. He takes a few minutes to calm down using breathing exercises. He stays there for a few minutes (the time is determined by how old he is). We have practiced this since he was a wee one. Now, all I even have to do is point to one of the spots when he is in trouble, and he goes to time-out without a fight. I even see him put himself there when he is overwhelmed.

 

Today, he had a rather large melt down. He was instructed to sit in time-out until he could find some self-control. I admit, I got a bit distracted taking care of something else, and lost track of time. After about 10 minutes, I realized he was not out and playing. So I went to check on him.

This is what I found:

 

Now we know why he was out of control.
He clearly was exhausted.

When he came out of this time-out he was quite refreshed and ready to take on the world.

(Don't worry, I didn't leave him in this position, I laid him down elsewhere, where he finished his nap)

It's interesting to note, this is not unlike how many grown-ups deal with stress and feeling overwhelmed.

 

Naps are the best time-outs and rejuvenation a person can have - be they young or old.

Cupcake Cones a Childhood Favorite

Cupcake cones
are a favorite treat from my childhood.
I think there is nothing more delightful,
than sharing a childhood favorite with your child.

 

I love the soft and crunchy textures combined.

I love that there is less crumbs and mess than with typical papered cupcakes.
I love seeing the smile on my son's face when he enjoys a bite.

 

Won't you join us and enjoy Mamma's favorite childhood treat?

How to make Cupcake Cones:
Make your favorite cake recipe, and instead of dropping the batter into paper cups, drop it into premade ice cream cones. Carefully balance them in a cupcake pan, and bake as you would plain ole' cupcakes. Baking time might need to be increased. Check the center by poking with a toothpick to see if it is cooked through.
Top with cake frosting. Or try topping with a scoop of ice-cream.
ENJOY!