ideas for a mom of 18 month old

  • I have a son who recently turned 18 months old. He was premature, so he's a little behind on his physical development. He is walking, but not running yet. He's exploring his new found independence. He's not a big fan of sitting in a stroller for long walks (a favorite past time that has now turned very dramatic. ) While he can walk with me, the walks take a long time, and are never for more than a block or two... not a very good workout (at least for me!) I would like to teach him that physical activity should be an everyday thing.

    Does anyone have any suggestions for a hearty workout I can do WITH my son? Or at this point in his development, should I do it on my own?

    for reference, he weighs 25 pounds... A little too much to carry for long distances. That and he wiggles.
  • I know you say he hate stroller rides....but have you tried a jogging stroller?I got so much exercise when my kids were this age.I had a great jogging stroller.I straped cups of juice and books and toys for them to play with to stroller frame(so they would not get dropped).I walked miles and miles a day.As long as we were moving fast, my toddlers liked it.Now...a slow leisure ride, my toddlers did not enjoy either.Try it every day.Start slow.I bet he will get used to it.Or..walk to the nearest park.Maybe if he realizes he will get to play at the park, he will enjoy the ride
  • My daughters really liked those little push car things at that age--and wagon rides. They didn't like strollers too much.

    The push car things are the ones with the big handles behind you push along-all the while the child is "driving." I think Step 2 was the maker.

    Also, get a wagon with a high back--place your son inside with some soft blankets underneath and some of his toys or books.

    My kids also really liked anything in the water.
  • Ah the joys of babies screaming!!! LOL
    As mentioned previously, the park is always fun, but you might see if there are "Mommy and Me" exercise classes in your area, if cost is not an issue. A day at the zoo is always fun, they can ride in a rental wagon or stroller.
    I used to take my kids to the zoo every day, because it was a great outdoor activity for all of us, and our zoo has plenty of playground areas for the kids. I would rent a wagon, and fill up a back pack or two with lunches, drinks and treats, diapers, bandaids, neosporin...etc... and spend the day at the zoo with picnic lunches.
    I hope this helps.
  • The only way I ever get in a good workout is at home with a video tape. You can buy them really cheap on eBay or check them out from free from the library.
  • When my kids were that age, workout videos at home worked best. If your son still takes naps you can do it then. My kids like to workout with me, its so cute watching them try and copy the moves.
  • When my son was little I used to dance around the house with him or while he was playing or sleeping.