Not Just Yet!

Just when you thought it was safe to turn your one year old around in their car seat and face the brave new world for the first time, a new study drops and shatters your world!  New advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics based primarily on a 2007 University of Virginia study finding that children under the age of 2 are 75 percent less likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries in a crash if they are facing rear in their car seat.  Hold the phone! I was told the stead fast rule of one year or 20 lbs. was the magic formula for the safety of my child. The new study shows compelling evidence, and with the advent of larger car seats, with heavier weight limits, it seems that this is truly the way to go.   Some parents are taking the wait and see approach, and sticking with what their car seat manufacturer suggests, or are following the guidelines of their vehicle manual.  Either way, the best parent is a well informed parent. 

I hear the word milestones thrown around allot when people are talking about parenting.  It usually starts with a discussion about sleeping through the night, and moves through teeth, first word, crawling, walking, potty training, and on and on.  As my children have gotten older I have noticed that milestones turn into moments.  If you don't pay attention, the moment will rip past you before you have even opened your eyes. It's easier when there little.  They can't leave the house without you, actually they cant do anything without you. It is a captive singular audience.  You notice every gesture, every snot bubble, every new laugh and smile.  Today I would have a hard time telling you what my son wore to school. Hectic schedules of sports, after school programs, and plays are the norm now.  Last night I was paying attention and caught a glimpse of a moment. My son making us all laugh at dinner by delivering a punch line with perfect timing, delivery and sweetness.  He seemed proud of himself as we all repeated his gag line several times after, laughing harder each time.  He is finding his sense of humor and it is a beautiful thing.   I am writing this as a reminder to myself. Pay attention to the moments, because they are milestones.