I've found the notes I made about the program I listened to on the benefits of being out in nature. One thing I forgot to mention is that this helps towards self-discipline. Who would have thought?
In Victorian times and even during the first half of the 20th century, child-rearing employed a very rigid approach. Then the pendulum swung completely the other way. Now, I think, we're grasping for a good middle road between the two. We want to help our children become self-disciplined. At least, I hope we do. A world where the undisciplined child is all-powerful is not something I'd like to contemplate.
It's worth establishing good habits while it's still easy. For instance, at mealtimes, you have baby in the highchair. It's good if the child can get used to sitting at the table while the family is eating, and only get down when everyone is finished. Within reason, of course. Once the child sits on his own, encourage him or her to sit with 'hands in your lap' until it's time to start eating. If a grace is said, that can also be helpful, and in my experience, children love this.
On the subject of high chairs, make sure it's comfortable. Don't keep 'em dangling -- the legs, that is. Old-fashioned high chairs always had a ledge for the child's feet to rest on. This is much more comfortable and better for them because it gives some support. So see if you can find one like that, and avoid the cheap chairs that simply have a seat. Secondhand can often be good.
Also, there's the question of posture. One of the most beautiful, tender and touching things to observe in small children is the way they sit and stand with perfect posture. It seems to me this extraordinary and wonderful gift is often undermined today with seating that offers an inclined back. Why would we want to encourage our children to slouch when the retention of a good, upright posture will help us throughout our lives?
And by the way, how are you yourself sitting right now? Crumpled forward means squishing our internal organs. So, just a quick check in!
