I have fortunately had the opportunity to photograph many toddlers and preschoolers over the years. I recently photographed this 3 year old in an Easter session. I love his vivacious personality and huge grins.

Make them comfortable. 

Give your toddler/preschooler a place to sit and something to hold. My model is holding colorful Easter eggs. 

Play a game of Peek-A-Boo. 

Kids want to have fun. And parents want an adorable smile. It's a win - win! Also try singing a favorite song like Old MacDonald.

"What does a duck say?" 

Have your child make silly animal noises. Laugh yourself and they'll probably laugh too!

Encourage boys to "Be a super hero!" Have girls "Twirl like a ballerina! Or sit like a princess"

My model is Super Man!! Young kids are so precious. I love letting them show off their creative side.

Play Ball.

Throw and catch balls with your child. It's fun for everyone. During this season we played with Easter Eggs.

Bring out the "Tickle Monster."  

Our tickle monster is a household duster on a stick! We tickle children with it and they giggle so cutely!

Show your child the back of your camera.

They often love to see themselves which motivates them to continue their silly antics!

Have your child become "creative director." 

What young child doesn't want to be in charge! Let them decide what to do for the next shot. Sometimes they have great ideas! My model decided to kneel and hold this sign. 

Don't say Turkey! or Whatever you do... DON'T SMILE! 

Kids love saying and doing what they are told not to do/say!

If all else fails, tempt them with candy.

This is last resort and often not effective but when you are desperate may as well give it a try! I casually mention having goodies after we have fun with our pictures. You don't want to have a piece of candy afterwards do you? But don't make it all about the candy. Do your best to keep the session fun and silly.

Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like your newborn baby photographed, updated child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow Laura Mares on Instagram and Facebook.

I have started using essential oils with my family. I use oils when the kids get an ear ache, head ache or start to catch a cold. I asked Nancy Booth, a Doterra Wellness Advocate to share her expertise about oils with new moms and moms to be.   - Laura

Since essential oils worked so well for me I like to share them with others.   - Nancy

Essential oils for newborns and their mothers

Many people have discovered the benefits of essential oils. They are 100% natural concentrated plant extracts used for medical purposes (as well as cleaning, skin care, cooking, mood management, aromatherapy, etc.) I find them to be less expensive, more convenient, and more effective than many over the counter or prescription drugs – without the long list of side effects. Be certain that you are using certified pure therapeutic grade oils.  If they are not therapeutic oils, they may contain harmful chemicals. I prefer oils from doTerra.

There are several oils which have helped women with pregnancy, giving birth, nursing, and child care. Here are a couple suggestions.  When diffused, add 3 – 5 drops in an essential oil diffuser with tap water. Follow the instructions with your diffuser. When applied, combine with a carrier oil such as olive, coconut, or jojoba.

Pregnancy

Wild Orange eases anger, anxiety, insomnia, acid reflux, heartburn, constipation – diffuse 
Ginger eases nausea, heartburn, muscle pain, improves appetite, fights colds – diffuse
Lavender eases headache – apply diluted lavender to back of neck and temples (1 drop lavender oil diluted with 1 teaspoon carrier oil)

Postpartum Discomfort

Lavender dilute and massage onto lower abdomen, and apply a warm compress (1 drop lavender diluted with 1 teaspoon carrier oil)
Wild Orange or Lavender diffusing these oils will benefit the entire family

Infant Care

Lavender and/or Wild Orange diffuse to calm baby
Lemon diffuse to stop a runny nose
Clove dilute (1 drop clove with 1 teaspoon carrier oil) rubbed on the gums, if you don't have clove try lavender. 

While there are many other oils and combinations you can use, these are a good place to start.  If you would like more suggestions, or want to purchase oils or a diffuser, feel free to contact me Nancy Booth, [email protected] or visit my online store.

While Laura asked me to share a couple oils that are helpful for moms and babies, essential oils are beneficial for anyone at any age. I'd love to hear your experiences with oils, please share them here with us in the comments section.

Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like your newborn baby photographed, updated child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow Laura Mares on Instagram and Facebook.