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Submitted by: Baby Help Line - Annie

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Hi Olivia, This is a tricky one, I can totally understand why she wants to stay out if she is having such a great time! But of course you need to get on to things at home. Young children do need heaps of stimulation and games, and at home we are often busy doing other things and expect them to play by themselves. I would suggest you start some activities at home that she loves, playing chasing games, painting together, reading stories. Find the things she most likes doing with you and then when it is time to go home from the park or the shops, then talk to her about the exciting things you are going to do at home. Make home a fun place to be, talk excitedly about what you are going to do together. You are right, she is noticing it is much more exciting when she is out, so it is your job to make it really exciting at home! When it is time to go home, acknowledge that she wants to stay, and state what you need to do. Something like: I know you want to stay and play, and I need to go home to cook dinner, how about you have 5 more slides or 5 more minutes, then we'll go home and you can help me peel potatoes - or we'll read a story before I start dinner. Or make her feel important: Have you got big strong muscles? Can you help me unpack the shopping? Get her involved and let her help - it doesn't matter if she makes a mess, or makes mistakes, that is part of the learning process. Give her a choice so she is not feeling totally powerless, and then claims power back by throwing tantrum! Shall we play with the Lego or read a story when we get home? Children that have plenty of interaction and fun games with their parents, end up being far more independent and keen to learn as they grow. Good luck, enjoy your time while she is young, <a href="http://www.easybabylife.com/annie-desantis.html">Annie Desantis</a>

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