Genetic mix play an important role in raising happy kids, but as parents, both of you can help your youngsters along. Giving them space is one major step to give them the chance for self-discovery to develop and nurture their creativity. Start them off by giving them those adorable children's table and chairs, big illustration books, crayons, and tons of paper.

Trick or Treats

No, it's not Halloween yet, but when kids are on the warpath, hapless parents are challenged to keep their cool. The age of the terrible twos is a period parents have to deal with positively. Instead of threatening them with the proverbial belt, dig deeper into your bag of tricks and treats to give them interesting puzzles or crayons to color those animal coloring books. Let them work on the project on brightly-hued children's table and chairs.

Two-year-olds love to imitate their parents and older siblings, and they love it when they have furniture and things their size. Children's table and chairs, beds, toy chest, books, and oodles of toys give them a sense of pride because they have the things mommy and daddy have. With something to occupy their minds, tantrums are forgotten and you can have some R & R before the next episode of your favorite TV show.

Child-Friendly Tips

But what else can you do to avert a disaster? These tried and tested fool-proof tips can drive away the blahs:

* Take them out of the house. The outdoors, even if it's just a square foot of backyard, can distract their attention.

* Involve them in learning activities, take them to games, listen to music, and give them easy projects like a coloring wall where they can stamp the entire panel with their creative graffiti.

* Join them at their games. Lug the children's table and chairs to the backyard and whip up a tea party. Let them dress up for the party and play host. They will love it, especially when you plan another soiree with them. Pretend play provides a fertile ground for creative play and discussions.

* Take them along to choose their own things from beds, children's table and chairs, vanity sets for girls, toy airplanes, and stuffed toys. You'll be amazed at the choices they make.

* Take them for fun rides at the park or watch The Lion King and other interesting children's movies at home. With movies, always point out the moral of the story at a level they can understand. This will lead them to think.

* If you're into art, let them watch you work or give them play dough to work on.

* Always have a ready answer to questions, no matter how exasperating these can be. An inquisitive child learns more and thinks more.

* Involve them in planning activities and be ready to be surprised and pleased at their suggestions.

Happy kids are busy kids, but there are still other factors to keep the nuts and bolts in place. Kids need the assurance that you'll always be there for them, share their fun, and listen to what they have to say.

Happy kids grow up around happy parents. Parents who are sociable, conscientious, and who don't worry too much rear cheerful kids. Happy kids are creative and can cope with future crises in adulthood. Better grab those children's table and chairs, children's CDs, gobs of water-soluble paints, books, and coloring books. Start your kids on a joyful and creative route to the future.