Frogster Chronicles

Potty Training: A Process, Not a Sprint Potty training is one of those developmental milestones that comes wrapped in expectation, trial, and the occasional puddle on the floor. Contrary to the modern Dutch trend of waiting until a child is well into toddlerhood, there is a strong case for starting much earlier—as early as 8 to 12 months. At that stage, the process can be more instinctive than instructional. With consistency, it simply becomes a habit, not a battle of wills. In our family's case, the journey began right on schedule, with promising early progress. But then life intervened. Teething and a long vacation derailed the momentum, and the potty was temporarily sidelined. By the time training resumed at 21 months, a new dynamic had emerged: our daughter was more aware, more verbal, and also more opinionated. She could now say "no," and often did. Pottying had evolved from a habit into a decision. And decisions, as most caregivers learn, are not always cooper...

Why Barefoot Shoes Are the Best Thing for Kids' Feet Picture this: a toddler sprinting across the grass, toes splaying, feet flexing, every step a perfect little dance of freedom. That’s what barefoot shoes were made for. Kids aren’t meant to walk like tiny grown-ups in mini dress shoes. Their feet are still forming—muscles growing, arches developing, and toes learning to grip the earth. Give those feet stiff, narrow shoes and they’re robbed of that essential freedom. But slip them into barefoot shoes? Boom—natural movement unlocked. Here’s why barefoot shoes are basically magic for growing feet: Room to Roam: Most kids’ shoes squash toes into a point. Barefoot shoes let toes spread wide like they’re supposed to, which means better balance and stronger feet from day one. Thin Soles, Big Wins: With just enough protection to keep things comfy, barefoot shoes help kids feel the ground. That builds coordination, improves posture, and encourages more mindful movement—ev...