The Parent Dictionary: Making sense of baby buzzwords

Parenting sites, mummy forums and toddler groups are fast becoming a minefield of confusing words and phrases.

That's where our Parent Dictionary comes in, providing a definition for some of the least understood and most cringeworthy parenting buzzwords.

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baby-led, n.
Letting your baby choose what it is they want to do and how. It's up to them if they want to make themselves a fabulous spaghetti wig.
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daddy day care, n.
When dad happens to be looking after the kids. Neither a cause for celebration nor alarm. See also ‘hands-on dad’ - - though we haven’t created that bit of the dictionary yet!
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din-dins, n.
Passive-aggressive term for a meal that could be considered edible, but which toddlers and babies throw on the floor.
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free-range parenting, v.
Letting your child discover the world for themselves, possibly by wreaking havoc at toddler groups.
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helicopter parent, n.
That mum or dad that is always hovering over their child, ready and waiting for a disaster that never comes along.
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mumpreneur, n.
A businesswoman with a tip-top idea and determination to make it a success. Also happens to be a mum.
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play date, n.
Just having a friend around so the little ones can play together. No need to buy flowers, dress up, or cook - although a cuppa and a biscuit may go down well if you're hosting.
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sharenting, v.
Living out every moment of your lives as parents on social media, much to the delight (or not!) of your child, family and friends.
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treasure basket, n.
A box full of random rubbish, great for your child’s sensory education.
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tummy time, n.
Putting your baby on their belly and letting them thrash about, roll around and generally do as they please.

Got one of your own? Get in touch with us via the hashtag #ParentDictionary on Instagram.

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The Parent Dictionary: Making sense of baby buzzwords

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