Archive for the ‘Parenting’ Category

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How to Care for Your Baby’s Mouth

Thursday, May 10th, 2012

Caring for your baby’s mouth should start right after birth, not just after teeth come in. Find out when and how to care for your baby’s mouth with these helpful tips.

Learning to care for your baby’s mouth is actually quite simple, but many parents are unaware of the need. Often, this results in poor gum health and cavities at a very early age. Find out what you need to know and fight poor dental health early on by learning tips that will help you care for your baby’s mouth.

Birth to Teeth

Care for your baby’s mouth should start right after they are born. Use a wet washcloth daily on your baby’s gums. A gentle rubbing motion is efficient. Make sure that the washcloth is clean and never use toothpaste or other cleansers in your baby’s mouth at this early age.

If your baby develops thrush, a yeast infection that looks like a white coating on the teeth, gums or tonsils, call your pediatrician. An antibiotic can be administered to clear up the infection. If you are breastfeeding, you may also need medication to prevent reinfection of your baby’s mouth.

Baby Teeth

Once teeth start emerging, it is time to start brushing. A soft bristled child’s toothbrush is adequate in helping you care for your baby’s mouth at this time. Many dentists recommend a fluoridated toothpaste during this stage, but parents should do their research. Not everyone agrees, and some studies have linked fluoride to brain damage later in life. If you are nervous about the potential dangers of fluoride, find an alternative toothpaste that is safe for infants. In the end, use your own best judgment.

Snacks and Juices

Sugary snacks and fruit juices can wreak some serious havoc in your baby’s teeth. As such, proper care of your baby’s mouth should include limiting sugary snacks, fruit drinks, soda and other sugary items. Limiting these items is also important for your child’s overall health. Opt for healthier snacks like fruits and vegetables. And as you care for your baby’s mouth, don’t forget that some foods can pose as choking hazards for infants and toddlers.

Posted in Baby Items, Baby names, Caring for Baby, Parenting | No Comments »

Comfort Items to Have on Hand When You’re Expecting a Baby

Thursday, April 26th, 2012

Every mom-to-be wants to be comfortable during those final stages of her pregnancy, but staying calm and comfortable can be easier said than done. To make those last few weeks or days a little more bearable, have these comfort items on hand.

There are certain comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby. Not every mom has the same kind of pregnancy, and some comfort items can help soothe you and make you feel more at ease if they are nearby. Because every pregnancy is different, it’s hard to guarantee the same comfort items will work for every mommy-to-be. However, these items are versatile and can help relax and soothe just about any expectant mom.

Here are some comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby:

Soothing creams and moisturizers—Before you use anything on your skin, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor. He or she can help you address any products that might not be good for your skin or for the baby while you’re pregnant. Some beauty creams and moisturizers, once approved by your doctor, can provide soothing stress relief. For example, many have aromas and therapeutic effects that can help calm you and make you more comfortable at all hours of the day or night.

Layered clothing and bedding—As you get closer to delivery, you’ll likely experience a number of hot flashes and other uncomfortable temperature changes. One minute you’ll be too cold, and the next you’ll feel like you’re sitting in a sauna. Counteract this discomfort by having an extra blanket or two nearby at all times, and keep a small bag packed with layered attire choices, such as a light hoody and shirts or tanks that can be easily worn on top of one another.

These are just a few examples of comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby. Talk to your doctor to find out which products and items you should have nearby as you get closer to your delivery date. Having certain comfort items on hand when you’re expecting a baby can greatly influence your comfort level in those final days of your pregnancy.

Posted in Baby Items, Health, Morning Sickness, Parenting, Pre-Birth, Pregnancy | No Comments »

Learn the Benefits of Infant Massage

Thursday, February 16th, 2012

Have you heard of infant massage but aren’t sure what it is? Do you wonder why parents would bother or if there are any benefits? If you are intrigued by the idea but want to learn more, here are the basics and benefits of infant massage.

Infant massage is not new, but the benefits have made it an increasingly popular way for parents to soothe and connect with their babies. Yet there are still many parents that are just hearing about infant massage for the first time. So what is it? How do you do it? What are the benefits? Keep reading and find out!

What is Infant Massage?

Infant massage is a type of massage that parents perform on their infants. It is very similar to the type of massage an adult might receive, but it is done in a way that does not address muscle tension or knots, since infants are generally free of these types of ailments. Still, the benefits of infant massage aren’t much different from the benefits of adult massage.

Benefits of Infant Massage

Studies have shown that infants who receive regular massages from their parents are overall more relaxed and less fussy. Infant massage can also calm fussy infants and create a bonding experience between parent and child. Sleep and growth patterns may also be enhanced and improved through massage as well. It is also important to know that infants who suffer from colic are less likely to enjoy the massage, but they often enjoy the benefit of less gas throughout the day.

How to Perform Infant Massage

Most parents who massage their babies do it at least once daily, often starting right after birth. You will want to be certain that you create a warm and quiet environment, especially for newborns that can get chilly easily. Turn the heat up just a little, turn on some soft music, and create a small, soft space for baby to rest. Some parents prefer to use lotion or baby oil, but you can also use olive oil to reduce the chemicals. This will ensure that your baby is able to enjoy the benefits of infant massage without sacrificing your concern over chemicals on your baby’s skin.

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Posted in Caring for Baby, Colicky Baby, Health, Parenting, Post Birth | No Comments »

Helpful Tips for Traveling with Your Baby

Tuesday, February 14th, 2012

When your baby first comes home, you may spend a lot of time at home. But before you know it, your life will commence and errands can become a nightmare if you don’t know how to prepare for your first outings with baby. Use these helpful hints for traveling with your baby so that you can be ready when the time comes.

Traveling with your baby the first few times can be extremely hectic. It can become a nightmare if you forget to bring something important. Like most parents, you can learn from mistakes or experience. Or you can learn from the mistakes of others and use these helpful tips for traveling with your baby and be a bit more prepared.

Feeding Items

You should always bring what you need to feed your baby when you go out. It doesn’t matter if you feed your baby right before you leave or if you’re only leaving for a few minutes. Every outing takes a bit longer than it used to when you have a new baby in tow. Add that to the many things in life that can slow you down and you have a formula for disaster, especially if you forget feeding supplies.

For breastfeeding mothers, traveling with your baby means bringing lots of water for you to drink as well as a cover, if you plan to use one. For bottle feeding parents, that means bringing bottles filled with distilled water, and a formula container. Please keep in mind that you should never mix the bottle until you are ready to feed your baby.

Diapering Items

Another common mistake new parents often make is forgetting diaper items. This includes clean diapers, a bag to put dirty diapers in, a changing pad, rash cream or baby powder, and baby wipes. Remember, no matter how long you plan to be gone, something can always go wrong when traveling with your baby.

Miscellaneous Items

Other items you will want to bring along include: extra blankets, burp rags, rattle toys, extra clothing, an extra pair of socks, a hat, and a thermometer. While you may not always need these items, they are good things to bring along when traveling with your baby.

Posted in Baby Items, Caring for Baby, Feeding, Parenting, Post Birth | No Comments »

Learn How to Wash Your Baby’s Clothing

Thursday, February 9th, 2012

Having a baby? Be prepared for more laundry than you have ever seen! Spit-up, diaper blowouts, and more all warrant the changing of outfits at least a few times a day. But did you know there is a special way to wash your little one’s laundry? Discover the right way to handle your infant’s dirty clothing.

If you don’t know how to wash your baby’s clothing, you’re not alone. Many parents are unaware that there are a few rules for washing their infant’s clothing. As a result, many infants suffer from dry, irritated skin or other adverse reactions. Infant clothing can also become ruined because it wasn’t washed with the right type of care. If you learn how to wash your baby’s clothing, however, you can prevent these common problems.

Separating the Loads

The first thing you need to know when learning how to wash your baby’s clothing is that you should never mix adult clothing with baby clothing. The soil on your clothing can stain and ruin your infant’s clothing. Additionally, the perfumes, dyes, and other chemical elements you come into contact with throughout the day are too much for your baby’s skin. Even if you wash the clothing, some of that residue can make its way into the fibers of your infant’s clothes.

Pretreat Stains

Changing baby because of a messy lunch, spit up mess, or diaper blowout? Rinse and pretreat the stain first. This will help prevent permanent stains on your infant’s clothing. And because infant clothing is expensive and babies make a lot of messes, the more items you can save, the better.

Which Detergent?

When choosing your infant’s detergent, it is essential that you choose the right one. Harsh laundry soaps can irritate baby’s skin and cause adverse reactions in your infant. Baby’s laundry should only be washed with soap that is dye free and perfume free. If at all possible, look for “green” laundry soap, because the ingredients used in these soaps aren’t as harsh as the chemicals found in conventional laundry soaps. Using a “green” soap, however, is not an essential part of learning how to wash your baby’s clothing.

Posted in Caring for Baby, Health, Parenting, Post Birth | No Comments »

Expectant Mommy Shopping Essentials Checklist

Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

Are you expecting? Not sure how to stock up for the little one on the way? Here are some shopping essentials that every new mom should have on hand before baby arrives.

Knowing what items to shop for is tough when you’re expecting, which is why every expectant mommy needs a shopping essentials checklist before baby arrives. Although you’ll receive plenty of baby basics from family and friends at your shower and after baby is born, it doesn’t hurt to have certain things on hand yourself. You never know what you are going to get or what you’re going to need more of. Just because you create a registry for your shower doesn’t necessarily mean every item you request will be accounted for, so it’s a good idea to stock up on certain items yourself.

Use the following expectant mommy shopping essentials checklist to get ready for baby’s arrival:

Hygiene essentials—All of those little hygiene items will really come in handy from day one. You’ll need everything from baby nail clippers and shampoo to skin cream, and don’t forget to research the best brands for baby’s sensitive skin.

Diapers, diapers, and more diapers—No, you can never have enough diapers. Just assume you’ll receive tons of diaper products from your shower. However, pick up a few packs yourself while you’re at it, because they will go fast!

Nursery essentials—Some nursery essentials you’ll need to have on hand include basic furniture pieces, including a crib, dresser, and changing table. There are tons of options out there now that include cribs with built in drawers and even side changing table consoles that are attached to the actual crib.

Transportation essentials—You’ll also need a high-quality, convenient, comfortable car seat for your child, as well as trays and storage accessories to feed baby while you are on the road. Don’t forget diaper and duffle bags as well. Convertible car seats are especially helpful as they can accommodate your child as he or she grows.

This expectant mommy shopping essentials checklist can help get you started as you begin shopping for the little one on the way.

Posted in Baby Nursery, Caring for Baby, Parenting, Pre-Birth, Pregnancy | No Comments »

How to Help Stop Your Baby from Biting

Monday, January 30th, 2012

Biting is an extremely common behavior in older infants and toddlers. The effects, however, are extremely painful for the victim and the behavior is unacceptable for the biter. Learn how you can curb biting in your child with these tips.

If you are the parent of a biting child, you may wonder how you can stop your baby from biting. While it is a normal developmental behavior, it is also an unacceptable behavior. Play dates can become embarrassing and frustrating. Play time at home can become stressful as well. If biting has become your baby’s communication method of choice, learn what you can do to help stop your baby from biting.

Start by Comforting the Victim

If you are not your child’s most recent victim, take a moment to comfort the bitten child. Addressing your child first can actually reinforce the behavior and it is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when trying to stop your baby from biting. Once the hurt child is calm, you can move on to the next step.

Calm but Firm Words

Talk to your child in a calm but firm voice. Use simple phrases that let them know that biting is not okay. “No biting,” or “biting hurts,” are some good choices. Avoid using lengthy explanations when talking to your young child about biting. For most children two and under, long discussions will cause the important message to be lost to your child, which will not help you as you try to help stop your baby from biting.

Comfort Your Child if Necessary

It may seem counterproductive to comfort your child when you are trying to stop your baby from biting. However, what many parents learn is that their baby wasn’t even aware of the fact that biting hurts. In fact, this is pretty much a given unless your child has been bitten by another child at some time or another. So, if your child is upset after being corrected, take a moment to comfort them. Don’t use phrases like “it’s okay.” Instead say, “I know,” and “I love you.”

Give Your Child Word Tools

If your child is biting out of aggression, then your baby needs some communication tools. Jump into an argument when you see your child getting frustrated or being treated unfairly. Teach them words like, “no,” “stop,” and “mine.” You will have time to help your child communicate and share when they get older, but right now, your focus is to stop your baby biting.

Posted in Baby Safety, Caring for Baby, Feeding, Parenting | No Comments »

Symptoms You Should Never Ignore in a Newborn

Thursday, January 19th, 2012

When you have your first baby, you may feel like an incessant worrier. You call your doctor for everything and you are constantly assured that everything is fine. For new parents, however, there are some symptoms that you should never ignore in a newborn. Find out what they are and what you should do here.

There are some symptoms you should never ignore in a newborn; this applies whether you have just had your first child or your twentieth child. In most cases, these symptoms are an indication of a serious health condition. Most of them require immediate medical attention. All of them require you to at least call your child’s pediatrician. Before you shrug off your baby’s symptoms, read over this list of symptoms you should never ignore in a newborn.

Red, Brown, or Bright Green Vomit

Babies spit up—a lot! But vomit that is red, brown, or bright green is one of the symptoms that you should never ignore in a newborn. Vomit with these colors can indicate intestinal bleeding or blockage and your baby should be evaluated by a health care professional immediately.

Not Enough Wet Diapers

At six days of age, your baby should have at least six wet diapers a day. A lack of wet diapers is an indication that your baby is dehydrated, making this another one of the symptoms that you should never ignore in a newborn. This symptom may not warrant a visit to the emergency room, but you should at least contact your infant’s pediatrician. More severe signs of dehydration can include sunken eyes, lethargy, and dry mouth. You should seek immediate medical help at this point, but counting wet diapers can help you catch dehydration before it reaches this point.

Labored Breathing

Because babies make funny sounds and their breathing still isn’t regulated, it may be hard to tell if your baby is having trouble breathing. If you suspect that your infant is struggling with their breathing, watch their nose. A nose that flares could be a sign of respiratory distress. Infants that are using their abdominal muscles are in respiratory distress and they should be seen by a health care professional immediately because this is also one of the symptoms that you should never ignore in a newborn.

Posted in Baby Safety, Caring for Baby, Feeding, Health, Parenting, Post Birth | No Comments »

Tips for Starting Your Baby on Solids

Thursday, December 1st, 2011

Not all babies are the same, and no two babies will start solids at the same time. No two babies will eat the same, either. Still, there are some important tips that apply to all infants when starting on solids. Find out more here.

While starting solids can be a fun milestone to celebrate, it is important to know some important tips for starting your baby on solids to ensure that this milestone is also safe. Starting solids too soon can present a choking hazard for your baby. It has also been linked to a higher chance of obesity.

When to Start Solid

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies start solids around four months of age. When considering starting your baby on solids, however, you should realize that all babies are different, so you will need to use some personal judgment to determine if your baby is really ready for solids. Some babies will need to wait a little longer. Things to look out for are difficulty in swallowing or a baby that doesn’t open their mouth when prompted with the spoon.

Foods to Offer

Another really important factor to keep in mind when considering starting your baby on solids is the type of foods you offer. Single grain, plain infant cereal should be offered first. You can mix this with a bit of breast milk or formula, but avoid adding sweet stuff, like fruits, for now. Also, be sure you offer the cereal in a runnier consistency to help baby adjust to swallowing solids.

Once your baby seems to be doing well with infant cereals, you can move on to more exciting foods. Making your baby’s food is both easy and fun, and by doing this, you know exactly what you are feeding your baby. Experts suggest using organic fruits and vegetables when possible because of fertilizers and pesticides. If you can’t find the time to make your own baby food, choose organic jarred baby food when you are ready to change your feeding routine and start your baby on solids.

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Posted in Feeding, Parenting | No Comments »

Angelic Baby Name Ideas for Your New Baby

Monday, November 14th, 2011

A new little angel is deserving of an angelic baby name! Here are some beautiful name ideas inspired by the angels themselves to help you find a name for your new baby boy or girl.

Angelic baby name ideas are plentiful, and choosing an angelic name is a great way to emphasize the essence of new life and happiness your bundle of joy will bring. Angels have long been prominent symbolic figures in many world religions, and their significance in art and culture around the globe has been and continues to be a fascinating phenomena.

Whether you choose an angel-inspired name because of your interest in the history of angels or you simply love the sound and meaning of an angelic name, any of the following angelic baby names are beautiful options:

Seraphim—This name is equally great for a boy or a girl and its meaning is just as majestic and mysterious as the name itself. The seraphim are considered the highest ranking of all of God’s angels. For example, they are above cherubim and archangels, which makes them pretty special in the heavenly realm.

Uriel—Do you love music? Do you want an angelic baby name that will have some musical influence as well as a heavenly symbolism? Uriel is the biblical name of the angel who is to blow the trumpet on Judgment Day and is a beautiful name for a new baby boy.

Solange—Solange is a very pretty baby girl name that means “angel of the sun.” It is French in origin and also means “dignified.” If you want an elegant, striking name for your baby girl, this is a good option.

Gabriel—This is a very popular boy’s name and has been for many years. It is especially significant in the realm of angelic baby name ideas. Gabriel is a biblical name that is packed with a lot of honorable significance. It means “God’s able-bodied one” or “hero of God.” It is Hebrew in origin and offers many female variants, including Gabriele, Gabbi, and Gabriella. This is one of the strongest, most versatile angelic baby name ideas you can choose.

Posted in Angelic Baby Names, Baby Name Themes, Parenting, Post Birth, Pre-Birth, Pregnancy | No Comments »

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