Dawn Patrol: July 21, 2009

Abby got a membership at the Irving Park YMCA yesterday. Mommy and I are planning for the Y to be a big part of her life growing up. They offer all kinds of programs and lessons for children young and old. She'll be able to take swimming lessons starting in September, and once she's two she can participate in sports and art classes. There are summer and winter camps, birthday parties and field trips. And finally The Y is a great place for Mommy and I to work out too.

Abby's play life also took a big leap forward yesterday. We put together her Exersaucer and plopped her into it. She loves it. We had her playing with one of the toys (the dog keyboard) beforehand, so she felt right at home from the first moment. We rolled up some blankets and wrapped them around her to give her a little extra support, but she's doing fine with it so far. I watch her like a hawk while she's in it, so there's no need for any of you to worry.

I've read up on the product, and for the most part the reviews have been great. I did read in one place that these kinds of toys can briefly delay walking (three weeks or so). The reason is that it prevents them from falling, which is an important feedback in their balance development, and it makes it so they can't see their feet. I only saw this in one place, so I am not too worried about it. We decided that we would only put her in it for about 30 minutes at a time, and we will continue to do the stand-up/pull-up practice that we do several times a day.

Abby's day yesterday was good. Daddy managed her naps well, so she never got too tired. The next big thing is swimming. Mommy and Daddy are planning to take her to the pool this weekend. Abby can't wait.

Don't worry there will be pictures on Flickr.