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The Thoughtful Parent

The Thoughtful Parent

A blog that makes child development approachable.

  • Social-Emotional
    • 7 Ways to Teach Your Child About Kindness
  • Temperament
    • Seeing the Unique Gift of Your Child’s Temperament
    • Insights for Parents from the Science of Child Temperament
  • Toddler Development
    • Research-Backed Real-Life Strategies to Discipline Kids without Yelling
    • Research-Backed Ways to Thrive Through the Toddler Years
  • Child Development
    • A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the 4 Attachment Styles
    • Mirror Test for Babies: When Do They Recognize Themselves?
  • Potty Training
    • When Do You Start Potty Training?
    • Potty Training Readiness Quiz

Play-Based Learning

highly sensitive boy

The Science-Based Reason Why Experience Gifts are Great for Kids

July 12, 2025

{plus 25+ awesome experience gift ideas} Sneak peek: Looking for some “outside the box” gift ideas that kids …

Continue ReadingThe Science-Based Reason Why Experience Gifts are Great for Kids

The Hidden Power of Hand-Clapping Songs: How Simple Rhythms Boost Kids’ Learning

October 21, 2025

Sneak peek: Hand-clapping songs do more than entertain your child—they strengthen their memory, coordination, and even …

Continue ReadingThe Hidden Power of Hand-Clapping Songs: How Simple Rhythms Boost Kids’ Learning
toddler playing blocks

Why Guided Play is the Secret to Playtime with Your Kids

September 26, 2025

Sneak peek: How you can use guided play to maximize education and fun for you and your child“Mom, I want a combine …

Continue ReadingWhy Guided Play is the Secret to Playtime with Your Kids
online preschool

Preschool is Going Online: Why This is a Huge Mistake

September 26, 2025

Sneak peek: Online preschool is becoming more common in some areas. Discover why this misguided approach is squandering …

Continue ReadingPreschool is Going Online: Why This is a Huge Mistake
toddler playing with truck

“Aren’t They Just Playing?” The Subtle (but Amazing) Way Play-Based Preschool Ignites Learning

February 3, 2024

Sneak peek: There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding play-based learning in preschool. While …

Continue Reading“Aren’t They Just Playing?” The Subtle (but Amazing) Way Play-Based Preschool Ignites Learning
what to look for in a preschool checklist

What Does an Effective Preschool Look Like? A Guide for Curious Parents

January 15, 2024

Sneak peek: Parents often ask what to look for in a preschool. This post can be your guide for what questions to ask on …

Continue ReadingWhat Does an Effective Preschool Look Like? A Guide for Curious Parents
early childhood

The Hidden Effect of Early Childhood Education

August 13, 2025

Sneak peek: Preschool doesn’t change kids’ IQ. The advantages of preschool education are much more …

Continue ReadingThe Hidden Effect of Early Childhood Education

Research-backed tips for choosing the best toys for toddlers

June 12, 2025

Sneak peek: In a sea of developmental toys for toddlers, which ones best promote learning and growth? Research helps …

Continue ReadingResearch-backed tips for choosing the best toys for toddlers
preschool

The Fallacy of Early Academics: What is Lost When We Push Too Hard

May 31, 2011

Sneak peek: There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding why preschool matters for young children. While …

Continue ReadingThe Fallacy of Early Academics: What is Lost When We Push Too Hard
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Amy Webb
As a mom of two young boys, I’ve seen first-hand how research-based child development information, combined with intuition, can guide you through your parenting journey. Although I have a Ph.D.in Human Development and Family Sciences, many of my real parenting discoveries have come through my experience. I believe parenting with confidence comes from knowledge; parenting with grace comes from insight. Join me on this parenting journey of learning and discovery

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