English nanny Jo Frost gives helpful parenting advice from across the pond. My husband and I are very thankful since having children that Jo the "Supernanny" has started sharing her professional child rearing skills with us here in the United States. 

Jo Frost has made quite a name for herself in both U.K. and U.S.  The Supernanny has become a recognizable name as Jo has now written 3 books and also stars on the hit t.v. show “Supernanny” which airs in 47 countries.  Jo Frost has been a nanny for 20 years and teaches families skill which focus on adult authority being consistent, and at the same time she helps create a peaceful home environment where children can thrive.  My husband and I use the parenting skills we have learned from the Supernanny on a daily basis.  The following are some of Jo’s tips that we as a family have found very useful.

A family of at least four people should have a family routine.  A routine can ensure that each member of the family gets the quality time they deserve and each person knows their daily responsibilities.  It is important that the major points of a day be scheduled such as; sleeping, waking, eating snacks and meals, school, homework, alone time with mom and dad and alone time for mom and dad.  Children thrive off of structure, even if they are hesitant to follow the schedule they need it.

Bedtime is such a difficult yet crucial part of a child’s healthy lifestyle.  The Supernanny offers excellent and easy to follow bedtime advice.  Practice having calm time before bedtime and avoid things like, leaping around and dancing about.  Evening is the best time for bath time.  A warm bath can help relax a child before bed.  Keep the lights in your children’s bedroom on low and have a little chat about the day, or maybe read a book, or sing a song.  Always give a kiss goodnight and an “I love you” before leaving the room.  Leave a night light on if your child is scared of the dark, a favorite teddy bear by their side can also help make them feel more secure.

A healthy diet, home cooking and family time at the dinner table are very important parts of a child’s day.  Research suggests that we tend to eat what is available and, of coarse, children eat what they are given….sometimes.  Try to prepare healthy home meals and make eating out a special treat.  A child will not want to eat healthy foods if their parents and family have not introduced them.  Start feeding your baby healthy food options as soon as they start eating baby food.  Supernanny suggests that if your child is being picky during a meal and indulging in just on particular food, as long as it is healthy then that is o.k. you can give them more of that food.  Most likely your child will get over the picky eating phase sooner than later. 

You can watch Jo Frost’s program The Supernanny on ABC

There is also a Supernanny website at: http://www.supernanny.com/