Having a new baby in the family can bring extra special meaning to the holidays, but it can also create extra tension as everyone jostles for your little one's attention. With careful planning, lots of communication and a willingness to put your new family first, your holiday can be just the way you want it.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics says an hour or two of television per day is plenty for children, and kids under two shouldn't watch at all. To make sure the time your toddler spends in front of the TV is good for him: 1) look for programs with educational content and positive characters and values, 2) instead of letting your child "watch TV," allow him to watch specific programs and turn the set off when they're over and 3) stay away from violent shows, which can trigger aggressive behavior.

Source: “Smart Guide to Kid's TV,” http://www.aap.org/family/smarttv.htm, accessed December 23, 2008

Arts and crafts activities are great ways to let your toddler express his creativity. To make sure his paints, crayons, clay and other supplies are safe, look for "Conforms to ASTMD 4236" labels. That means the products have been evaluated for long-term health hazards using American Society for Testing and Materials standards. You can also look for the Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) Approved Product Seal. These products are nontoxic and pose no immediate or long-term health hazards.

Source: “Arts and Crafts Safety,” by Kara Corridan, http://www.parents.com,
http://www.parents.com/baby/safety/toy/arts-and-crafts-safety/