How to Tell if You've Found a Good Preschool

Choosing the perfect preschool program is like putting together a puzzle🧩—it's about asking the right questions and tuning in with your eyes and ears during those school visits! When you're peeping into a preschool classroom, keep an eye out for these key markers of a great learning environment👀.Neat and child-friendly surroundingsStep into the preschool wonderland! Look for a room that's not just cheerful but also like a mini adventure land, divided into different zones—books in one corner, water play in another. Think tidy but not overly neat; we're talking about a room that's "played in," not a museum. Room to wiggle, explore, munch, and nap? Check! Each little explorer gets their own cubby, and the toilets and sinks? Totally kid-sized🐤.Now, here's why this is the preschool jackpot: Your tiny tot needs to feel like this is a home away from home, a cozy spot to do their thing or dive into small group adventures. Easy access is the name of the game—materials, snacks, lunch, and potty breaks should be a breeze. Oh, and no funky smells allowed—cigarette smoke, spoiled snacks, or icky toilets won't fly here. It's all about a day full of play, laughter, and with a healthy dose of happiness🏠🌈!Organized and lively activityTime to put those keen eyes and ears into action! In a top-notch preschool, picture a lively scene—the buzz of happy little chatter, excited kids diving into free play or joining informal group fun like circle time, sing-alongs, and story sessions. What's not on the wishlist? Kiddos quietly sitting for an eternity or bored explorers on an aimless stroll🥱.Why it's preschool perfection: Our tiny learners thrive when they're in action, soaking up letters, numbers, science, and music through hands-on adventures. No stress, no pressure—just the joy of learning through play. And let's not forget the social skills drill—talking (yep, using those words) and mastering the art of turn-taking. Too much structure? That's a no-go. We want those little minds and bodies free to explore and play, not pent up in a boredom bubble🌟🎉 ! Forget traditional textbooks!🖐Colorful artwork Imagine a preschool wonderland adorned with a riot of drawings, paintings, and creations—each unique, a little messy, and proudly displayed at eye level for the mini artists🧑‍🎨. Why the masterpiece decor? It's not art class time yet; it's all about letting those creative juices flow without a hint of "that doesn't look like a house" commentary. The walls are a canvas of confidence🎨, showing little ones that their artistic efforts are celebrated and nurturing the budding artists within.🖐Plenty of toys and materialsNow, let's talk about toys🧸! Playthings in this magical space are not just safe and age-appropriate but also in tip-top condition (no misfit toy vibes here). During your preschool visit, keep an eye out for a diverse array of toys that spark open-ended play and creativity—think cars, blocks, dolls, dress-up clothes, and the beloved toy kitchens. Oh, and don't forget the treasure trove of books waiting to be picked up and "read" at any time.Why these are the golden signs of a top-notch preschool: Forget traditional textbooks; these drawings, creations, and playthings are the only textbooks your preschooler needs on this adventure of learning and fun🎨🚗📚!

Magnets for Toddlers: A Natural Attraction

Exploring the magnetic realm is akin to setting sail on an electrifying expedition for our tiny explorers! Not only do they get to exercise those adorable little fingers, but they also treat their brains to a fantastic workout! 🕵️‍♂️🧲Discovering Magnet Magic for Fun LearningStep into a world of enchanting exploration as we unveil the secrets of magnetism through our whimsical journey. "Magnet Magic" is your passport to endless wonder, where the irresistible allure of magnets becomes a full-blown magnetic party. 🌟Delve into magnetic mischief with your young adventurers, all while sneaking in a bit of learning along the way. 🔍 From captivating experiments to playful discoveries, our magnetic odyssey promises fun, fascination, and the joy of knowledge intertwined. Join us and let the magic of magnets spark curiosity in both young and old, making every day a delightful exploration! 🚀Introducing Toddlers to the World of MagnetsSafe Magnet Fun for ToddlersLet's embark on a magnet-tastic mission! ✨ Gather a gang of large, vibrant refrigerator magnets that are perfect for those tiny hands. Remember, we're all about safety, so nothing smaller than one and three-quarters inches in diameter – because we want to steer clear of any choking hazards.High-powered magnet sets? They're out of bounds, as they can be a little too adventurous for our young explorers. Safety first, always! 👶Creative Magnetic AdventuresNow, the fun part! 🎉 Stick these magnetic wonders to the bottom of your fridge door or any trusty metal buddy. And to keep the adventure exciting, mix it up with a motley crew of images – from friendly folks to furry animals, zooming vehicles, and everyday household treasures. 💡 We can even sneak in some letters and numbers for extra flair, but don't worry about math or spelling just yet. It's all about setting the stage for a magnetic world of fun! 🔔The Benefits of Magnets for ToddlersBut wait, there's more! 🖐️ Playing with magnets is like taking your first step into the amazing world of science. It's like entering a hidden lab where invisible forces, magnetic fields, and lots of secrets are waiting to be discovered. 🔬Exploring Science PlayfullyAs your child plays with magnets, they start to understand how things are attracted to each other or pushed away. 🧠 It's like learning the basics of why magnets work. They might not be wearing lab coats, but this playful exploration is like the beginning of their exciting journey into science. 🎒Boosting CoordinationAnd let's not forget about the super cool benefits for your child's hands. Those little fingers picking up and moving magnets are getting better at being precise and coordinated. 🖐️ It's like going to a gym, but for their hands, helping them use their fingers more skillfully and put the magnets exactly where they want. 🏋️‍♂️

Tips for Positive Parenting

The definition of positive parenting varies but the core idea can be summed up to warm, positive family interactions and guidelines!Tips for positive parenting👪Get inside your child's headAlthough on the outside your child's behaviors look unjustified and irrational, they are motivated by legitimate needs.🧸 If you can get inside their heads, you can address their needs. Always keep in mind that they are still developing and give them the benefit of the doubt.😎👪Empathetic, supportive and constructiveYou don't have to agree with your child's demands all the time. Instead, the goal is to be the kind of arbitrator and mentor you would want for yourself and your baby.😀Your kid would love a parent who is prepared to listen to their side of the story and reassure them that they are being heard.💖 They know that they will get a fair-minded and sympathetic hearing. You are the one who will reason with them, use encouragement and humor to steer them away from negative emotions while introducing solutions.🥰👪The art of distractionIf you notice that your baby has gotten hold of a forbidden object, you just camly remove it and show your child something else. Look at these colorful toys!🪅 Your child might be attracted to them immediately when you find them more interesting.  Distraction is useful for old kids too. When your child is overwhelmed by feelings of outrage and confinement, they don't know how to stop but they can divert their focus into something else.👀👪Humor and playfulnessJokes and silliness are considered excellent distractions.😚 Your kid might feel more excited and motivated if you make requests with humor and transform work into play.👪Make sure that most of your interactions are positiveKids are mirrors, reflecting images of what happens around them.🪞 Positive social interactions create more trusting family relationships and motivate kids to be cooperative.More tips for positive parenting👪Validate your kid's reasonsIt's important that you don't expect your kids to read your mind.😊 Two-way conversations are much more beneficial when you don't just recite the rules but rather to explain the rationale of the rules and undertake your baby's questions and concerns.👪Try to say yes as much as possible'No' can be viewed as a negative word that fuels resentment and resistance since your kid is not yet able to understand how to learn from negative feedback. Parental criticism can also trigger feelings of hopelessness.😞 Hence, you should either suggest alternatives and help the kid accept different options. 👪Catch children at being goodIt's crucial that you give praise at the right moment.😘 Children may respond to rewards and compliments more readily than punishments. After your kid finishes homework, let's offer simple praise 'well done!' for the kid's good behavior.👪Be a good mentorTalking with your child about their feelings and discussing helpful strategies for handling difficult emotions indicate your respect for your kid and your willingness to offer sympathetic hearing.👂 You also provide your little one with concrete support and assurance that no matter what, mommy is right here! 

Making Toddler Playdates Work

Handling toddler playdates may not require a PhD in rocket science, but it does come with its own set of quirks. Juggling schedules, planning activities, and managing two tiny tornadoes under one roof can be a real adventure. Check out our guide to make these playdates a blast, perfectly suited to your tot's temperament! 👶🎉Your little one is shy or passive🎨Before the Next PlaydateSo, you've got a little one who prefers solo play, but it's time to give them the tools to stand their ground in a friendly way. If your toddler is old enough, help them understand how to react when their playmate takes their toy. Try saying, "Jacob, tell Harper, 'Please give the ball back.'" 🏀 Practice it together through a little role-play, like playacting with your child's favorite lovey. Take it away and say, "If you want your lovey, say, 'Please give it back.'"🎨At the Next PlaydateNow, it's time to let your child shine.✨ When a toy thief strikes, as tempting as it is to step in and play superhero, hold back a bit. Passive toddlers need the chance to solve their own problems. If your little one manages it, they'll gain a big dose of confidence in dealing with these situations all on their own – a skill that will come in handy even when you're not there to save the day.🎨Team Up with the Other ParentIt's not a one-parent show. If you both get on the same page, you can tackle this together. So, make sure the other parent is aware of the situation and work as a team to guide the children on what's acceptable behavior during a toddler playdate. Aggressive playmates may leave passive children in tears, but with a bit of guidance and practice, those playdates can become great opportunities to boost your toddler's self-confidence. 🚀🎈Your little one enjoys solitary play!Ever set the stage for a playdate, only to find your little one content playing solo in one corner while their buddy does the same in another? What's the deal with that? 🤔Well, don't fret! Up until around the age of 2, it's perfectly par for the course (and, in fact, quite likely) for children to engage in what's called "parallel play." While it might seem like your tot is a budding loner because they prefer to play independently, take a closer look, and you'll likely spot them watching and mimicking the other kid – a crucial first step toward being social. 👣Of course, personality also comes into play. Just like some adults prefer solitude, some kids are naturally more solitary than others. And that's perfectly okay! 🙌 But it's a good idea to mix things up with other tots from time to time so your little one can learn the art of getting along with others before they dive into the preschool social scene. Your little one gets in fightsWhen toddlers come together for a playdate, you might witness some little squabbles – but there's no need to worry. Angry toddlers are often just frustrated and haven't quite figured out how to express themselves yet. 💁‍♀️Before the next playdate, focus on positive attention, teach them about emotions, and set expectations. At the next playdate, give them a moment to work out disagreements themselves, step in with firm words if needed, and introduce a new activity after resolving the issue. Soon enough, they'll be back to being thick as thieves. 🤝🧚‍♂️

Skin rashes in babies and toddlers - Part 1

My little one started scratching! Her skin turned red and covered with weird bumps😵! What should I do? Don't panic, we'll help you!💪What causes rashes in children?There are various factors that cause skin rashes at young ages. Most skin rashes are no big deal that will go away as time passes or with medication. If it seems like the rash isn't bothering your cutie, all you need to do is just keep him/her comfy until the skin returns to normal. If it bothers you and your baby, it is always a good idea to call the doctor.Here is a list of the most common causes of skin rashes✔️Diaper rashDiaper rash is when a red rash appears around a baby's genital area or buttocks. Urine and diarrhea is the major reason for skin irritation and itchiness, so it is important to change the baby's diaper frequently. If your baby's skin is sensitive👶, an ingredient in a diaper or wipe could also cause the rash. Usually, diaper rashes can be prevented and removed with simple treatments at home. Giving a little time and air-drying the genital area when changing diapers could help a lot from skin irritation. You can get ointments for rash from drug stores without a doctor's prescription, so you might want to try them if you think the baby needs some treatments🩹.✔️EczemaEczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, causes dry, inflamed, and itchy skin conditions that can develop as a chronic skin disease. Eczema patches tend to be very itchy, so the babies feel very uncomfortable when the patches arise😢. The exact causes of eczema are uncertain yet, but experts assume it's coming from environmental irritants and allergens like scratchy fabrics, dust, use of home liquids, and foods. It can be managed by keeping skin hydrated and avoiding known triggers, so taking good care of the surroundings is important🧹.✔️Bug bitesWe have all experienced bug bites🐜. As we all know, when an insect bites, skin inflames and turns red. It gets itchy, and painful sometimes! Avoiding contact with bugs is the only solution. Wear clothes and cover your baby's skin as much as possible. There are gentle bug repellents that are safe for babies, so you could try them when you take your baby outside🏕️, especially at dawn and night because that is when bugs are active. ✔️Dry skinHave you had a moment when you feel like you need extra hydration to your skin? Your baby can have that feeling too! Baby skin is extra sensitive and produces fewer moisturizing oils than grown-ups, which makes it vulnerable to cold air, long baths, drooling, scented lotions, or irritating home chemicals like soaps🧼 or detergents. If dry skin happens, your baby's skin can turn red, and look rough or flaky. Cracking and peeling can also happen, and itchiness could be painful if it gets worse! Constant moisturizing is the key. Use a humidifier if the room is dry, and keep putting lotions🧴 on your baby will help!✔️RoseolaRoseola usually appears in babies aged 6 to 24 months, when the baby's immunity is at its weakest. The virus is highly contagious as well🦠, and it can be passed through sneezing or touching contaminated surfaces.The infection starts with a high fever and sore throat, and you'll notice some redness arises around your baby's eyes. A few days after that, rose-colored rashes will appear and spread around the baby's torso (the name Roseola came from this!🥀). Fortunately, rashes from Roseola don't leave any discharge or scab, and the virus fades within a week without any special treatment.

Skin rashes in babies and toddlers - Part 2

You thought the battle is over? Oh no, not yet! Here is the second part of the list of skin rashes you should be aware of!🔥✔️Food allergyFood allergy occurs when a baby is sensitive to certain food and an unusual reaction appears in his/her body🤒. Common allergens include eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy. Feeding a small amount of common allergen food one by one before starting baby food, or asking a doctor for an allergy test might help to distinguish which food your baby is allergic to. Allergic reactions can differ by individual, including a red, itchy rash, vomiting and nausea, watery and red eyes with sneezing🤧. Some serious reactions could cause trouble breathing or swelling of the lips and tongue. So if you notice any abnormal symptoms after feeding, observe the symptom carefully and discuss it with your doctor.✔️Hand, foot, and mouth diseaseHand, foot, and mouth disease (HFM) is a common virus for kids under 5. The name originated from its main symptom which makes rashes and blisters on the baby's hands, mouth, and feet. Flu-like symptoms such as high fever and sore throat follow🌡️. The virus is very contagious and spreads very easily, so if your baby is infected with HFM, you should separate him/her from other young children🙅‍♀️. ✔️Fifth diseaseIf your baby has a low fever and cold-like symptoms for several days and a red rash starts to form on the cheeks😳, you need to doubt if it's Fifth disease. Fifth disease is caused by parvovirus B19. It is contagious, but only in the early phase which is before a rash starts to appear. This is common, especially in kids aged 5 to 15, but it also occurs in some toddlers and babies.✔️HivesBacterial infections, food reactions, plants or bug bites can make hives on the skin. It is a skin condition with red and raised bumps😵‍💫. They can be itchy, but mostly they don't bother your baby at all. It is hard to know what causes hives, but allergy is one of the major influences. If you could record the recent food or medication intakes💊, it helps to track down the possible cause of hives. It might look serious, but it's not contagious.✔️SunburnWhen your baby was exposed to sunlight for too long☀️, sunburn can develop on their skin! As you might already have experienced during previous vacations, sunburn can happen even on cloudy days. Especially since babies' skin is weak and sensitive, they are more vulnerable to the sun, and can feel more pain than we do😖! We all already know how to avoid sunburns. Put sunscreens when you bring your little one outside, and cover them with long sleeves to minimize sun exposure.

Emotion Coaching

Whenever your baby feels sad or angry, do you try to empathize with their emotion or just ignore and move on? Emotionally supportive relationships can be beneficial more than you think.😎Emotion coaching👪What is emotion coaching?Based on the principle that emotionally supportive relationships provide the best context for children to grow up, emotion coaching is the practice of helping your baby learn to self-regulate negative emotions when you tune in your child's feelings and show empathy.🤗 Because the kid is not capable of handling difficult emotions and having rich life experiences like adults, you are the ultimate guide who needs to accept and validate their feelings, helps them label emotions with words and instructs them to overcome hardships.🤱👪Why kids need you to emphasize?Young children lack our life experiences and are incompetent at reading others' feelings and intentions. Your kid needs you to guide them to learn and practice.👩‍🏫Some kids have a tougher time than others at mood management. The key is you can provide help and teach them to handle those emotional storms.😀Ways that emotion coaching works👪Notice signs before your child's emotions get intenseIs your kid looking a bit frustrated?😤 Although your initial reaction might be to ignore it and regard negative emotions as offensive, this is actually the golden opportunity for you to better understand your child and help them cope with it.💪Talk to your child how they look different now and ask the reason why they behave so.️ If you suspect a trigger, gently bring it up so that the child feels like they are being heard.😀👪Listen, validate and show empathyYou need to stay calm even though your child is furious in front of you.😌 What you really need to do is to relate to your kid's experiences by drawing parallels in your own life.Imagine when you are upset at your coworkers when something goes wrong at your work. That is also your child's feelings when they are rejected or humiliated at school.🏫 You can relate to the situation and understand why your kid feels that way.😇👪Find verbal labels for emotionsAs you listen and empathize with your kids, you can help them identify what exactly their feelings are.😍 Learning how to verbalize emotions teaches them to shift into a more detached and analytical point of view and view emotions as a normal reaction to a triggering situation. The method isn't merely telling your baby how they should feel. But rather to ask questions, align with our own experiences and help them understand their own emotions better.🤗👪Allow your child to take time to calm downPowerful emotions, such as anger, anxiety trigger a fight or flight response. They block the ability to reason and control impulses, making us vulnerable to overreacting.🛡️The same thing happens to your child. If your baby is highly distressed about an uncomfortable situation, let them take a pause and allow the stress response to wind down.😮‍💨 Don't be tempted to start problem-solving and expect them to reason with you when they are not ready.

Rain Gear for Toddlers

Navigating puddles is practically a rite of passage for your little adventurer, and we've got the perfect toolkit to keep her cozy and (mostly) dry. Introducing the must-have toddler rain gear to make those rainy-day escapades a breeze. Let's ensure every splash💦 is a joyous one!An umbrella☔When picking an umbrella for your little one, go for a small, safe model. Look for features like an easy-to-grip handle and plastic knobs, so there are no sharp parts to worry about. Let your kiddo choose one with their favorite superhero🦸🏻 – it makes rainy days more fun!If your little explorer isn't quite ready to handle their own umbrella, go for a bigger option that you can carry. Think of those large golf umbrellas that can cover the whole family, reaching up to 68 inches. Choose a sturdy "windproof" model to avoid any unexpected flips on windy days. Because in the world of rainy adventures, we've got you covered (literally)☂️✨!A raincoat and rain boots!When it comes to dressing your little one for rainy days, think comfy and flexible. Whether it's a ladybug-themed jacket or a classic yellow slicker, avoid stiff raincoats that might cramp your tot's style. Instead, go for a softer, waterproof jacket that moves with your on-the-go kiddo. Look for ones with zip-in layers to keep them warm when it's damp outside. Choose a size that's roomy but not too big, and you can always roll up the sleeves for a perfect fit that grows with them. Safety first – keep those little hands🖐🏻 free!Now, let's talk about a must-have for puddle jumping💧 – rain boots! Just like regular shoes, make sure they fit well to avoid any twisted ankles. No need to spend a fortune here; galoshes are sturdy and hold up well, making them perfect for passing on to younger siblings or friends. Check with friends who have older kids – they might have a couple of outgrown pairs waiting for a new adventure! The goal is to keep your tot dry and stylish without breaking the bank☔.A stroller coverIf you're always out and about with your stroller or rely on walking in the city, think about getting a good weather-proof stroller cover. A cover that fits most strollers should work, but for the best protection, go for one made for your specific stroller model. Keep your little one cozy and dry, no matter what the weather throws at you☔🚶‍♂️👶!

Why Toddlers Love Climbing and How to Keep Them Safe

It's such a heartwarming experience🥰 to celebrate a child's steps, as it often signifies the beginning of another phase: climbing. As toddlers discover their abilities and enthusiastically reach for heights, parents may feel a mix of adoration and concern. For those with ones who seem to have the agility of mountain goats, here are some tips to navigate this adventurous stage with confidence👍🏻!Why do toddlers enjoy climbing? Toddlers are explorers🕵🏻. Often embark on climbing expeditions as early as 8 or 9 months old, hitting their stride between 18 and 24 months. Each step in their development from crawling to climbing adds an element to their journey, enhancing their motor skills, balance, coordination and spatial awareness.Just imagine your little one stacking a stool on the couch to reach heights. It's both delightful and challenging for parents! Balancing between encouraging their sense of adventure and prioritizing safety becomes a mission. All toddlers have a limited understanding of danger⚠️ as they eagerly explore the dimensions of their world🌎.What are effective strategies for preventing toddlers from climbing on everything?💡Climbing adventures are fun but.. Encouraging your child's climbing adventures🪜 is beneficial for them to explore and build confidence. However, ensuring safety is paramount! Did you know that every year 2.2 million children under the age of 14 receive treatment for injuries caused by falls😢? Surprisingly, more than half of these cases involve children under the age of 4. It's not uncommon for toddlers to have tumbles from play equipment and even babies can unexpectedly take spills from furniture.💡Finding a balanceDon't worry😉! You can ensure your little one climbs with safety in mind by following some enjoyable steps. Invest in play gyms, sturdy step stools, and create soft obstacle courses. Take precautions by securing furniture, especially dressers to make your space climb-proof. Keep an eye👀 on your climber and establish clear boundaries regarding what is safe to climb. If they happen to stray, gently redirect them towards an alternative. Find a balance between encouraging exploration and ensuring safety during your toddler's climbing adventures!Tips for Keeping Climbing Toddlers SafeCreating a safe environment for your climbing toddler involves implementing some childproofing strategies. Let's break it down into to follow steps:💡Stairway SafetyInstall baby gates🚪 at both the top and bottom of stairs ensuring they are securely fastened. We all know how determined curious toddlers can be when it comes to practicing their stair-climbing skills. Remember to keep those gates closed when not in use.💡Furniture ProtectionSecure pieces of furniture, like bookshelves and dressers by anchoring them to the wall or floor to prevent any possibility of tipping over.Don't forget to attach the TV📺 to the wall. Make sure to close and latch all drawers and cabinets to prevent hands from accessing items. Store wobbly ladders out of reach.💡Smart Tips for Safe SpacesKeep chairs and stools away from windows🪟 to discourage toddlers from climbing onto window sills. Minimize temptations by placing items on higher shelves. Additionally, consider adding padding to climbing spots, such as the sofa, to provide a softer landing in case of unexpected falls.

Aggression, Hitting, and Biting

Toddlers can sometimes turn into little wrestlers, but it's all part of their development. Encourage them to express themselves differently and help them learn about emotions. 😊🧡Why toddlers hitToddlers, with their developing independence and enthusiasm, sometimes grapple with communication limitations that can lead to episodes of frustration and, yes, the occasional bout of hitting. 🧗‍♂️Hitting usually peaks around age 2 or 3 for several reasons. First, toddlers are often testing limits as they explore their independence. Second, they're developing impulse control, but it's a work in progress, making it challenging to curb the urge to hit when frustration strikes. Third, as they begin to grasp social skills like sharing and taking turns, they might resort to hitting when things don't go their way. Fourth, when intense emotions bubble up – whether due to excitement, stress, anger, or sadness – toddlers may turn to hitting as a way to express themselves before they've fully mastered the art of words. 👶💬How to respond when your toddler hitsWhen your toddler tests the hitting waters, remain calm and consistent. Set clear boundaries and respond immediately, using a timeout strategy for one minute per year of age. Encourage alternative activities during this cool-down period, like playing with Play-Doh to help them manage their emotions. 🥁Avoid lengthy lectures and physical punishment like spanking, as they don't effectively teach emotional regulation. Use logical consequences instead – for instance, if they misbehave in a ball pit, remove them and explain they can return when they can play nicely. Remember, overstimulating environments can challenge their impulse control. 💁‍♀️Consistency is crucial in addressing hitting episodes. After the situation cools down, discuss what happened, emphasizing that while it's okay to feel angry, hitting is not an acceptable way to express it. Encourage them to find healthier ways to manage their emotions! 💪Ways to stop when your toddler hitsRecognize patterns in your toddler's behavior – if you notice they tend to get feisty right before a nap when they're overtired, create a soothing, low-key environment during those times. When you're out and about, say at the park or mall, and they're overwhelmed by the sensory circus, consider giving them a gentle breather. 🎈Boost positive behavior reinforcement by acknowledging their good moments. Celebrate when they ask politely for a turn on the swing instead of resorting to playground tussles. Show them the power of their words, making good behavior more rewarding. 😆Be mindful of their media consumption – some children's shows and games can contain intense scenes of shouting and shoving. 👓 Opt for high-quality, age-appropriate content, especially if your toddler is sensitive to the influences they encounter.