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.