The Physical Environment
1. A cluttered home is a chaotic, restless
home. While it is often hard to keep a tidy house
when small children occupy it, it is helpful to try
to keep the clutter to a minimum. Physical clutter
overloads a child’s senses and can lead to feelings of
stress. A tidy, clutter free home will be more calm
and soothing to all who abide there.
2. Your home’s décor can have a big impact.
Fresh flowers on the table, light-hearted wall
hangings or beautiful art all add to the positive
feeling of your home.
3. Pleasant scents lift moods. Did you know that
the human sense of smell can identify thousands
of aromas and is 10,000 times more precise than
our sense of taste? Find what scents energize your
children and what scents soothe them.
4. Create a truly child-friendly environment.
Provide toys and activities that children can reach
without the help of an adult. Put as much on their
level (within their reach) as you are comfortable
with, including healthy snacks, books, puzzles and
games, cups/plates/utensils, etc. Provide a mirror
at your child’s level. Have stools available at sinks.
5. Let the sunshine in! Open shades and
windows. Research has proven that natural
lighting helps people be more productive, happier,
healthier and calmer.
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