"How to Introduce Phonics to Your Baby"

It’s amazing seeing his development before my very eyes. His vocabulary has grown immensely and now he’s asking me questions and wanting me to explain things in full detail.

My husband and I have been very particular about what Luci watches and how long he’s in front of the televison. We don’t care if its educational…He’s not going to turn into a “T.V. Head”. I hear parents saying all the time how they “can’t control what comes on T.V. “. They’re right… but you can sure control what gets presented on your television.

In my research I have become very picky about the videos I purchase for Luci and Thank God they have all been good choices. He’s not only enjoys them but has learned sooooooooo much through them. Ralph(my husband) and I have also learned how to cater to his learning style.

In an effort to choose only the right videos, Luci has become extremely attached to only a handful of a DVDs. One of which that his uncle/ godfather Murshid discovered while in Sam’s Club. He tends to be an impulse shopper at times. I believe the only thing he paid attention to was that it was geared towards ages 6mos. -2yrs. At that time Luci was about 2 mos. old. It came with a stuff animal so I was like if anything at least he’ll play with the colorful bug.

I started playing it for Luci while he was in his swing. The colorful bug puppets would actually hold his attention until he fell asleep at times. I loved it!!! I was able to get some quick household chores in while Giggles and the Tummy Tots grasped his attention.

This video Baby’s First Words from Phonics 4 Babies continues to be a household favorite. Mallory Lewis daughter of Shari Lewis(Lamb Chop) introduces keywords and phrases to ignite your child in early speech. Mallory introduces so much, from letter and shape identification to vowel formation and even manners.

Giggles would get on my nerves with her rude behavior but she was always properly corrected.

My son is 2yrs old and can already identify all 52 letters of the alphabet (upper and lower case). When your child enters kindergarten they will focus on the full dynamic of the alphabet. He also knows the proper phonic sounds. Being an avid reader you come to appreciate the importance of understanding phonics. Phonics are the major foundation to reading. Luci is able to read and pronounce several words properly.

Please forgive me. I’m not trying to brag on my son or make him out to be some super genius toddler or anything. He’s like most toddlers: curious, energetic with a Super absorbent brain. I am just thankful to have come across some truly amazing tools that have excelled him beyond our expectations at such an early age.

I have been so impressed with it that I had to find out if there were any other videos. It was hard to find but actually, Luci stumbled upon Phonics 4 Babies: Colors and Counting at our local library; recently…. “Mommy Look!”. He loves it and continues to ask for it. He’s counting along perfectly and identifying the colors as they flash across the screen.

I truly contribute Phonics 4 Babies to his impressive speech development. I never would have thought so much would come out of a female ventriloquist and bunch of colorful bugs.

A Chunk Taken A Chunk Gained

A massive chunk was taken out of my day and I didn’t even realize it.

The blur began as soon as we walked in… I was taken back by the little kiddie town. I was so distracted with everything; I missed a perfect photo op with my husband dressing Luci in the Fireman’s costume.

My husband (Ralph) was only there to drop us off but he was taken by the gator as well. He’s the perfect play mate for Luci, neither one knows when or how to stop playing around. They both had a great time playing make believe in the little play stations.

I never knew Luci was such a great cook and grocery shopper! It amazes me how much he absorbs. Having Ralph there was great: D

This was the first time I was really able to talk to the other mothers and watch my kids (the big one and the little one) out of my peripheral. Needless to say, it was great getting to know the other mothers on a deeper level.

I discovered that Nancy is a true certified world traveler. She mentioned that she’s traveled to every single continent with the exception of Antarctica (so far). I thought that was really cool…I myself love traveling and experiencing various cultures first hand, as well. We even seemed to share the same passion for life...” there are no limits to life and the world is here for our full enjoyment”.

I was blessed not only to learn about her travels but also about to learn about her love of service. She thoroughly enjoys serving the community in everything from volunteering at the Big Cat Rescue to tutoring at- risk children. She truly is an amazing woman. I’m glad to say that I now more than as just Lily’s mom.

She reminded me that the more you give, the more you get back. It was actually through her selfless time that she discovered a love of teaching… and now regularly utilizes her free time to educate several other children. For most, free time is for refueling but for her it’s for igniting her passion.

I felt as if the gator just gave me a good whack with his tale.

I love speaking to Real Women with Real Lives. Women who understand and respect their role as a mother…instead of neglecting their true identity they embrace it.


Our conversation was soon interrupted by a potty request and soon I found myself running after Luci towards one of the many bounce houses.


I was so impressed with the layout of the place. Moms are placed smack dab in the middle of it all. We were able to watch the kids in any area from one vantage point. Lord knows I need a breather. I would call it a swamp setting because it was peaceful yet there was tons of action spinning all around me in the distance.

In the far distance I noticed Gracie and Gemma running through each and every bounce house and obstacle course. I think the only time she took a breath was during their potty break. Yeah she’s a SuperMommy…


Joshua and Nico were real troopers… nothing could slow them down except for the little dress –up session. Looks like they had a great time trying on different ensembles...Mary and Nicole, I won’t tell if you won’t.


The unlimited play was such a huge bonus because it kept the kids busy the entire time. They never seemed to get bored. If they slowed down at all it was to reawaken another level of their endless secret energy supply. I don’t think they weren’t satisfied until they played in every single area at least 4 times.


I enjoyed watching them play. Of course, the Big Kid; I got engaged in a good old game of chase after Luci … Hey daddy was there but I had to get my time in as well. Luci wouldn’t have it any other way.


After the chase, I got a chance to speak to Rachel and she gave me some great shopping advice. Since being a mom it has been extremely hard for me to shop for myself, especially on a budget. She reminded me that it can be done, it just takes good planning. “Shop during sales and never without a store coupon’’.


She always looks nice and we have similar taste… so getting tidbits from her were very beneficial. She even took out her receipt to let me see the actual savings. I giggled to myself because I know I can probably pull out a year’s worth of receipts out of my purse but mine will probably be from Luci or household purchases. One of greatest bits of wisdom was to sign-up for my favorite stores newsletters as soon as they come to mind. They have amazing coupons and keep me abreast of upcoming sales


I gained a lot of information and it still baffles me of how much I walked away with on Friday. I got to know the women in our group on a deeper level and my son was ready for one of the best naps he’s had in a while!


Fred can always take a chunk out of my wallet.

Over 275 and through I-4 we went

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We had a great time in Dover City. It was definitely different from sitting, chatting while the kids ran around and played. This time we sat with the kids to make sure they didn't start chatting or running around. I must admit that our little group did very well. Jerry was able to capture their attention as well as keep it through the entire the puppet show. Of course, Luci had to have his snacks and juice. I wasn’t sure if food was allowed so I had to keep it under wraps. That was difficult; when he brought the puppets out to interact with the children during the performance. He really does an amazing job, keeping them engaged. So much that Mothers from Wesley Chapel are coming on a regular basis. His version of Little Red Riding Hood was cute and offered a lesson of why it’s important Not to Talk to Strangers. Even grandma had enough spunk to get away from the Big Bad Wolf. We all got a kick out of her getting away so quickly. He continued to encourage feedback from the kids in the audience during the show. Ayla, liked the songs so much she couldn’t stop dancing and clapping in Michelle’s lap. The kids were able to reenact their own version of the play by making paper puppets. They had a great time coloring and walking around with their little creations. Luci and I loved coming home and making up our own stories with the puppets. It was really cool watching him make the connection between the craft and the story..."mommy redhood in wolf." I got a lot of smiles and giggles from that alone. After the craft, Jerry gave us a tour around his workshop. We were able to view puppets from previous and upcoming performances from around the world. The bright colors and shapes of the puppets during the tour were only able to hold their attention for so long. Luci was excited to run around in their yard and jump from place to place. It was time to leave! Reminding me more how much my son needs a yard to play in. Knowing the kids had some energy to release we took them to McDonalds down the street from Puppet World. When I saw how huge the play area was, I felt my stomach flop. I knew Luci was going to make it his next conquest but mommy wasn't mentally prepared. As much as I wanted to stop him or divert his attention; I let him go. He was confident and secure because every time he looked behind; mommy was there. I was praying he didn't get scared up there and want me to climb up after him. I couldn’t imagine myself squeezing through the tubes. I was put to ease when I could hear Luci laughing and giggling throughout the twist and turns of the tunnels…thank God! Gracie was a little hesitant at first; tiptoeing in and out of the tunnel but once she gave it a try; she kept going and going. I was proud of her because she had to go by the Big kids to get through. This was a struggle in itself. Constantly, reminding the bigger kids to watch out for our Little ones. Of course, they continued to race by. Michelle and I kept giving each other the LOOK. I did my best to keep my cool because it became very frustrating when their parents; just sat there and did nothing. I guess their McCafe` was more important. It took a lot out of me to speak nicely to this little girl as she just crawled over Gracie and stepped on her... telling her to “be careful and watch where you’re going.” I understood my frustration had nothing to do with the kids but with their space head parents. In the corner of my eye I could see her mother approaching. I was already forming my words for her if she had something to say. It was best she didn’t! Trust Me! Soon, it looked as if Luci and Gracie were racing through the tunnels after each other. You would have never known she just got trampled. While the kids were wearing themselves out Michelle, Gemma and I began to talk and share a little of ourselves. We shared our past and our feelings on certain subjects. I even opened up and shared my reasons for not pursuing a career as a Forensic Scientist. This isn’t something I am usually comfortable talking about with others. Yet, I was among women who could relate to my discussion making. They understood that I wanted to be an involved mother and that was nearly impossible in Law Enforcement. Gemma, talked about how she works at night to make sure she has that quality time with Gracie. We make those sacrifices for our children to make sure that we’re doing our best to be the mother that they need and deserve. It felt good opening up and it surprised me that I shared something so personal. It’s really interesting to see how women open up through the connection of their children. While watching our children playing I realized they weren’t the only ones learning how to grow and share with each other.

Pumped me Out!!!

When I got to the top of the stairs, I had to Thank God for making all 15 steps. Luci and I count those steps everyday so I am very familiar with them. I was still holding Luci, car seat and all, trying my best to catch a couple of breaths; I opened the door and Ralph was there in the living room. I must have looked pretty pitiful because Ralph swiftly took him from me. I've always had to ask for help, but never mind. I handed Ralph the car seat with Luci in it while I sat down just long enough to regroup. Then I began to tell Ralph about our morning. "Pump-it-Up really put a whooping on us!" We walked in this little room that was swallowed-up by three inflatable structures. At first, I didn't know how Luci was going to feel about the place. It was a little overwhelming with kids running around in all different directions; looking like a blur of colors. But, that didn't seem to phase Luci one bit! He began to climb-up the slide and he got nervous when he realized how high up he actually was. He called for me and I scrambled up the slide behind him. The whole time going up I was praying I wouldn't bust my butt in front of all these people. He felt secure when we reached the top together. Once he conquered the BIG Slide; it was on from there! After, coming down safely...Thank God!! I noticed Nancy and Lily were having a great time going up and down the slide together as well. Eventually, Nancy had to take a breather. At the same time, Lily was enjoying herself over in the toy area. Luci on the other hand was having too much fun jumping from place to place. It was crazy going through the obstacle course. I didn't know if I was going to make it through it at times. I struggled through tubes just to keep up. Gracie and Gemma were very familiar with Pump-it-Up. Gracie treated the place as if it was her very own backyard. She just ran effortlessly through it all. We really enjoyed the interaction with the kids. We tried to start a couple of conversations while catching our breath but, it was nearly impossible while chasing our children in and out of the three bounce houses. Luci found it amusing to play peek-a-boo along the obstacle course. I was getting tired of going in and out of that thing. He got so good that I thought I lost him in between the barriers. I wanted to keep jumping in the bounce house; I love letting loose. Yet, I couldn't image chasing two Luci's around that room. Time would go bye too fast, trying to chase and interact with more than one child at a time. I truly admire the women who are able to bounce back and forth between children. At times, I found my head spinning as I watched a mother go through the obstacle course while bouncing with another. Kudos to her!!! Even though I was nearly winded and I was having a great time. Luci kept going and going; I was constantly wondering when time was up! I was ready to go!! My multivitamin didn't prepare me for this!! My thighs were still burning from the workout the night before. I know I got my $8 worth! Being that an hour and a half is perfect for wiping out my Luci and me. If anything I would I recommend a discount for parents with children. For example, half off any additional child would be sufficient. I really enjoyed the jumping and bouncing at Pump-it-Up but most of all the 3hr. nap that it rewarded me with. Thank You Gemma!!