Older babies and toddlers have an uncanny ability to undress themselves, whipping off shoes, socks or headgear at - well, the drop of a hat; but it takes much more skill and co-ordination for a child to get dressed independently.WhenFrom around 15

Patience may be a virtue, but as every parent knows it's not one that many children posess. Refusing to wait their turn and throwing a wobbler when they can't have everything right now are common traits of early childhood. Teaching your child

that could dangle too much or get caught up. Make sure skates are well-fitting, andtighten the laces the mostwhere the foot and the ankle bends.Have some lessons beforehand Most indoor rinks will hold classes for children, and will teach children basic vital

. As the time span lengthens, you will find that your children start to learn how to get their own breakfast, find their clothes and dress themselves, thereby decreasing your workload.2. Have a good book to hand Too much infantile company can drive you crazy

1. Dress and undressIf she finds it hard to do up her shoes, buy slip-ons with Velcro fastenings. If buttons are a problem, but trousers or skirts with elastic waists and coats with simple fasteners.2. Go to the toilet unsupervisedGet into a toilet

It’s never too early to start reading stories with your child. In fact, you can start reading to your baby within weeks. It’s a lovely way of interacting with your baby and you’ll be surprise how quickly she starts to engage, looking at the pictures

the jungles, mountains and waterfalls of Thailand. Tell Tale Travel offers Thai adventure holidays with plenty to delight children, such as monkey-spotting in the trees and learning how to care for elephants, as well as visiting a local primary school

How to travel to far-flung foreign lands without feeling fearful…Begin with a country that you know is safe but that is foreign. So if you really want to have a cultural experience go someplace that is kind of traveling for beginners – you

, but the children weren’t perturbed: they had come to bathe the elephants and that’s what they did, so while the parents cowered under a canopy, Joe took hold of a hose for elephant bathtime. After two nights of jungle noises, we were ready for our Get Me Out

children,” says Orla. “But sometimes, in many ways, I think it’s easier to work. And we had wonderful nannies, so that always makes it easier.”And what do her two teenage sons make of her designs? “When they were smaller, they didn’t really get it, but now