Is Bubblegum a Yay or Nay For a Toddler?

May I ask why all the toddler questions?

Are you taking a class? Doing a survey? What's the scoop on the umpteen questions? All are about toddlers and all have the topics "pregnancy & parenting."

If we're going to take the time to answer, perhaps you would be so kind as to take the time to fill us in.

No! :)

I don't think you are being over-protective at all.  He's your child and you get to make the decisions regarding his health.  Toddlers swallow bubble gum.  Soda is really bad, especially for his teeth and his weight, because of the sugar.  We  did give my grandson small amounts of unsweetened deaffinated iced tea when he was about 3-l/2 or 4.  It actually was a suggestion from his pediatrician since at that time he was drinking only milk and apple juice (which is also high in sugar content). 

 He's going to be seven in a few weeks, and he still only drinks white milk (his favorite), apple juice and iced tea (sometimes,  green)--he actually thinks he hates soda since we had been telling him for years that it's "yucky."  I imagine in time he'll realize that he likes it, but not yet.  The point is, your son does not need these things, and he'll be much better off without them. You might want to check with your pediatrician to see what he says and then relay that to your step-father.  Hopefully, you can  convince him that it's best to do what the doctor says.  Good luck.

Hon, I'm sorry you are in that position.

I can suggest you perhaps try to enlist the help of "experts" against your stepdad, if you think that will help.

Unfortunately, it sounds as though your stepdad is the kind of guy who will do as he pleases, regardless of your wishes.

Are you in a position to make other living arrangements?

If not, you may wish to try any (or all) of the following:

~ Enlist the help of your child's pediatrician.

~ Purchase a child development book and use it as your source of proof to back you up. Be aware that experts have varying opinions - read through the books and select one that best meets your ideals before you buy. (I like John Rosemond, myself.)

~ Take some Early Childhood Development classes at your local community college.

~ Discuss your questions with other experienced moms. Here is a good website (by moms, for moms) where you may get the support you seek: www.breastfeeding.com.

Most of all, have confidence in yourself. Parenting, like many other things, is a learn-as-you-go experience.

If you can set limits and stick to them, love your child and teach your child what you want him to know; you're ahead of the game already.

Sweetie, I commend you for seeking the answers and for taking a stand and trying to do what you feel is best.

I think you and your child are going to be just fine.

P.S. A toddler is incapable of 'chewing' gum. S/he will just end up chewing it for a few minutes and then will either swallow it or leave it lying around somewhere where it will get stuck in the carpet or elsewhere.

I suggest you hold off on the gum. But if you don't, no harm will come if it's swallowed. It won't get stuck in your child's intestines; it will just pass through and come out the other end.

Meanwhile, if it gets stuck in your child's hair, use peanut butter to remove it. If it's stuck on clothing or the carpet, use ice cubes.