Dental Health for Babies & Toddlers

Did you know that as soon as a baby gets his/her first tooth you should start taking care of them? Be sure to use flouride free toothpaste. As they become more aware of the experience let them take a bigger part of the brushing experience. Whether its helping you put the toothpaste on the brush or putting their toothbrush under the running water, every step you help them with will help to make them more independent and one day they'll be begging you to do it all by themselves. In the meantime, this website has a great informational video about taking care of your babies & toddlers teeth.

Author Spotlight on Karen Katz

Did you know that Karen Katz has published more than 45 books? Wow! Her first book Over the Moon was inspired by the adoption of her daughter, Lena, from Guatemala. Karen Katz's website has a great bio to get to know her a little better! Check it out here.

I love that nearly all of her books are appropriate for toddler-aged children. Many of her books have emotion behind them, making them a great reading experience for you and your little one. Not to mention the illustrations are very appealing. We have many of her books on the shelves here at Matteson Public Library! Come check some out today!

Come visit us!

Being stuck inside with your little one and nothing to do can be frustrating and boring. Why don't you come visit us at Lapsit? Each Tuesday we have two programs (930 or 1030 AM). We love to see new faces!

Steps for Sharing Books

It's not always easy to share books with your toddler. Here are a few tips to make the experience both easier and enjoyable:

1. Pick the best time—when both of you are in the mood.

2. Share the book—point to pictures and talk in an excited voice.

3. Watch baby—let baby play with the book and take a break if baby’s not having fun.

4. Cuddle—touch and love baby while sharing books.

5. Share books every day—it’s important even if only for a few minutes.

Information Courtesy of: Every Child Ready to Read® @ your library® is a program of the Public Library Association and the Association for Library Service to Children, divisions of the American Library Association. Every Child Ready to Read® @ your library® is a registered trademark and is used with permission.