My Urban Toddler Program Helps Kids Get Ready for New Siblings

Every fourth Tuesday of the month, Nanette Glencer arrives at in Saline with a treasured, old baby doll and a wealth of knowledge for tots and parents. It is there she teaches a “Soon to be Siblings” seminar.  

Expectant parents attend the class with their children, usually ranging in age from 18 months to three years. 

“We talk a lot about gentle touch, how to hold a baby, and what babies can and cannot do,“ Glencer said. 

She said children often look forward to a little brother or sister to play with, but don’t realize it will be awhile before the babies are ready to play.

Glencer holds a Masters degree in education, is a nationally board certified teacher and certified Montessori teacher. She is also a school administrator in Ann Arbor. 

Glencer especially likes to help parents. 

“There is so much information out there,” she said. “It is nice for parents to have someone to sort it all out for them.” 

In the “Soon to be Siblings” class, Glencer stresses the importance of balance.

“It’s about empowering siblings to make appropriate choices and help to make some decisions,” she said.  

She explained a scenario in which a sibling was asked to make the final decision about the color of the new nursery.  

“For instance, is it going to be yellow or green? Just make sure you are happy with either one they choose.” she laughed.

Parents are concerned most often about sibling jealousy. Glencer spends plenty of time in the classroom talking about family dynamics and use of language. 

“It is very important to use positive language. For instance, instead of saying ‘Don’t pinch the baby’, you would say ‘Touch the baby gently,’” Glencer said.  

According to Rosa Lee, owner of My Urban Toddler, Glencer is a welcome addition to the business.

“She’s so fantastic!” Lee said. “I often turn to her for my own advice.” 

At first glance, Lee’s place is a whimsical play place and gorgeous retail space, but look further and find a calendar full of parent educational classes, tools and resources, as well as fun and enriching children‘s classes. There is also a free lactation consultant on staff. Lee believes there is learning to be had, just by families gathering together. 

My Urban Toddler is located at 7025 E. Michigan Ave. View there entire facility and schedule of classes and events at www.myurbantoddler.com.  Nanette Glencer can be reached at www.greatchildrenconsulting.blogspot.com.