Care For Baby And Toddler

Burping Tips Tricks

2009-07-17T00:27:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, there is an art to burping baby. I always thought it was simple: throw him/her over your shoulder, pat their back, and out would come a burp. Simple enough, right? Wrong! Burping is a technique that must be leaed; otherwise a frustrated parent could spend all day working up that one little burp. With such a small belly, one little air bubble can cause intense discomfort.

My first child was labeled �colicky� while my second was dubbed �hard to burp� by the hospital staff. Between these two, I have leaed a few tricks of the trade that I would like to share with other new parents and hopefully prevent some tear-shed (on the parents� part, that is).

The Classic Over The Shoulder Position

This is probably the most common method, but can also be the most difficult to produce results. I recently discovered the trick to this position. Place your baby so that his upper belly is against your collarbone. Apply slight pressure with your collarbone while patting his back, or use the heel of your hand to gently rub circles on his back. Be sure to throw a burp cloth over your shoulder to catch any spills!

The Lap Method

Although awkward at first, it is easier to position baby correctly with this method. Sit baby up on your lap. Holding him with one hand against the front of his body, lean him forward slightly. Place the heel of your hand under his ribcage and apply slight pressure. If he is still too young to hold his head up on his own, you will need to support his chin with your fingers. Again, pat his back or rub circles with your free hand. This position is very good for babies that spit-up frequently. Simply place a burp cloth between your hand and baby�s chest, then flip the cloth over the back of your hand.

The �Old-School� Method

My aunt recently showed me this method, which I had never seen before. Hold baby in your lap just as you would for the previous method, but bend him further forward at the waist. As you pat or rub your baby�s back, slowly and gently rotate his body 360 degrees from the waist, much like he was doing a stretching exercise. Try to imagine doing a pre-aerobic warm-up: bend at the waist and stretch forward, then roll around to the right, continue rolling until you are leaning backwards, then roll to the left and front again. Repeat. If he shows any resistance, try another method. This is definitely the trickiest to maneuver, especially if baby is not yet holding his head up on his own, but has amazing results.

Watching my aunt�s demonstration, I chuckled under my breath, not being able to envision how this could possibly cause my son to burp. After only a few seconds, he let out a belch that would have made his ex-Marine father proud. Never underestimate your elders!

If All Else Fails

This particular method may not actually produce a burp, but, if none of the other positions do the trick and baby is still fussy, try laying him/her on your lap and gently rub circles on baby�s back with the heel of your hand. This seems to relieve some of the pressure off his belly and is recommended particularly for colicky babies. Many parents also use this method to relax baby and help him fall asleep.

Some babies can only be burped in a specific position; others can be easily burped with any method. If you do not have success with a particular position, try another one. Sometimes just moving them from one position to another seems to work out that burp. I can spend half an hour trying to burp my son with no success, then simply lift him up high into the air, and he�ll burp all by himself.

Dawn Lloyd is the mom to three young children and owner/editor of several family websites including BabyUniversity.com, a pregnancy and parenting community, BabyShopsOnline, a directory of pregnancy and baby online retailers, and PersonalFitnessZone.com, a weight loss and fitness community.

Warts in Kids

2009-07-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

Nearly fifty percent of children acquire warts at some time or the other. Warts, in the real sense are benign tumors which develop when keratinocytes, a kind of skin cell, is infected by the wart virus. There are many types of warts, the most common being rough bumps which appear on fingers and hands. Others are flat warts, genital warts, plantar warts, and molluscum contagiosum. The difference is based on the types, location, and painfulness of the wart. Common warts appear on fingers and hands and usually are painless. Plantar warts appear on the soles and are sometimes painful. Periungal warts show up around the finger and toe nail. Warts which appear on the face are flat warts. The symptoms of the common warts are that the skin develops an irregular surface and becomes rough. A dome starts to appear after a day after infection. A popular myth is that warts have roots, but they don't. They grow on the epidermis, which is the top most layer of the skin. The black portion is because of broken veins and clotted blood. Warts come and go at various stages of life like childhood and teenage years. They usually go away by themselves. But some can be very painful, can spread quickly and some of them wont go away for many years. Such kind of warts should definitely be treated. The most common treatment among the pediatricians is cryotherapy. They will freeze the warts using liquid nitrogen. Cantharidin can also be applied, which is a painless treatment but can result in painful blisters at the end of the day. The minus point is that these treatments sometimes cause blistering and some warts won't come off in one sitting. If the warts won't still budge they are further treated with strong salicylic acid, intralesional immune-therapy, bleomycin, or a pulsed dye laser. Aldara can also be used in worst cases. Because of some treatments the warts grow to the end of the blister, which results in a bigger wart and some might even result in a scar. Besides other common wart treatments, the most well-known home remedy is duct tape. The affected area is covered with duct tape for about six days. If within that time period, the tape peels off, it should be reapplied. After the sixth day, the duct tape should be removed and the wart should be soaked in water and a pumice stone or emery board should be used to scrap the top skin of the wart. After this, the duct tape should be reapplied again within twenty four hours and the same procedure should be repeated until the whole wart disappears. This procedure takes at least two months to get rid of the wart completely. Some kids hesitate to put duct tape on parts which are visible, like fingers and legs. They can be encouraged by making them wear colored duct tape, other than grey. Many home wart freezing and removal kits are also available in the market whose help can be taken. Warts spread by direct contact with the wart or any material which the infected person has used like a used towel which has been contaminated. It is contagious and hence it is recommended to stay away from it at the very sight of it. All the cuts, rashes and bites should be cleaned regularly and should be kept covered. Another measure for prevention is wearing closed shoes in public places. PPPPP Word Count 577

How to Deal With Your Baby s Nappy Rash

2009-07-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Nappy rash appears when your baby's skin is irritated by wee and poo contained in the nappy area. The skin appears red and raw due to bacteria and germs penetrating the normally protected layer of skin exposed to the irritants.

Regularly changing your baby's nappy is the best deterrent of nappy rash, however it is most likely that nappy rash will appear at some stage during the time your baby is wearing nappies.

When you change your baby's nappy be sure to clean the area thoroughly with warm water and a soft cloth or cotton wool. After cleaning be sure to dry the area as much as possible as moisture can contribute to the problem.

If you use nappy wipes or "wet wipes" to clean your baby's nappy area be mindful that these products typically contain certain chemicals or perfumes which can sting your baby's skin, especially if the skin has become broken from the rash.

Check for brands of nappy wipes which are perfume and alcohol free for best results and follow the advice given above of ensuring the area is well cleaned and dry after use.

A number of nappy creams and ointments are available for use with nappy rash, ranging from medicated creams to natural organic solutions. Most creams are zinc based which acts as a barrier against the skin and protects from bacteria and germs.

If the nappy rash does not improve when using a cream, perhaps try different products until you find one which provides good relief. There's not much difference between expensive and store bought creams as the important factor is finding a preparation which works for your baby.

If possible try and leave your baby bare, without a nappy, for short periods of time to allow the skin to "breathe". Of course leaving a nappy off comes with the obvious problems so watch out for the toilet signs or if your baby is not yet mobile you can lay them on a changing mat or suitable covered surface.

Should the nappy rash symptoms worsen or not show signs of improvement despite your treatment and care, you should consult your doctor or health care practitioner. If a nappy rash becomes infected then an antibiotic cream may be prescribed.

For further advice on nappy rash and nappies, please visit Baby Bums Nappies

To sign-up for a baby related newsletter, please visit Baby Newsletter website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Prime

Breastfeeding While Pregnant

2009-07-15T23:56:00.000-07:00

Being pregnant doesn't mean you have to stop breastfeeding your child. Long ago doctors believed it actually took nutrients away from the baby inside you, however that is not the case. Even today we have people that believe this and they will argue with you the entire time. Only you can decide if you should stop breastfeeding your toddler or not. Don't let someone else make that decision for you. Reasons to Stop A few reasons you might want to stop breastfeeding may be if you are feeling constantly drained of energy. Or maybe your child has started to bite. Sometimes your milk will just dry up, this is your body's way of telling you that it has had enough and to take a break. Mastitis could play a big role in making you stop immediately as well. Mastitis is an infection in the breast when it isn't expressed enough and gets engorged. Stopping or Weaning If you do plan on stopping because you are pregnant, make sure it is for the right reasons. If your child has reached a certain age, it might be best. But never just yank it away from them. Your child could wonder why it is being taken away. Wonder if they had done something or become discouraged about the new baby coming. Some children decide to wean themselves, which is a big help to you and you won't feel so guilty about it. You can choose to do it cold turkey, or slowly wean him/her off. Cold turkey can have some bad results. Try limiting his/her feeding times to certain hours and gradually as time passes take away more. Your child will quickly stop on his/her own and it won't be a traumatic event. Continuing to Feed If you do plan on continuing to breastfeed while you are pregnant, talk with your doctor about it. Not all the time will the doctor agree with your decision. Sometimes he/she may see something in your health that you don't. Listen carefully and find out if it is a health reason or simply his/her own belief. If it is the doctors belief, you can always seek out one that agrees with you. Being pregnant is hard enough at times, knowing you have someone in your coer will only relieve the stress. Don't be surprised if your family and friends want to say something about it and they will probably give you all kind of advice on how to stop and what they've read. Nicely explain to them it is your decision and you'll do what you think is best for your children. Try finding a support group in your area so you have someone to vent to or talk about these issues. Check out if there is a La Leche League near you or online that you can join. Remember that as long as you take proper care of yourself and your body, you'll be able to safely breastfeed while pregnant.

Baby Shower Gifts Traditional vs Personalized

2009-07-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

Baby showers are surprise parties thrown by friends or colleagues to honor a couple that is joyously expecting a child. The purpose of the shower is to bestow gifts upon the parents-to-be so that are generally items that are necessary for babies. Baby showers are a perfect reason for friends and family to come together and meet the parents-to-be and the baby (if it is already bo). It is a time for well wishing and celebration.

Gifts for baby showers can range from simple baby items like a crib or baby clothes to special gifts like a portable monitor, baby sheets, sling/front carrier, bouncers, specially designed toys, bath kits, activity toys like a baby gym, baby bags, and children�s books. There are many products in the market that are great as baby shower gifts. There are also websites which offer exclusive information about baby shower gifts.

Personalized gifts are also a wonderful way to show affection. Babies can be really demanding and would take a lot of adjusting too as soon as they are bo. Friends can even plan to gift a few dinners to the couple who just had and baby and who are too tired or too busy to cook by themselves. Even the offer of a few days of baby sitting is a wonderful gift. If the baby shower has a theme, it is a great idea to give gifts that are based on that theme. These gifts can be used to decorate the baby�s room on the same theme. Sometimes, the gifts can be second-hand or used items, which are too expensive when brought new.

It is a good idea to enquire with the mom-to-be if she wants anything special since she may already have a few things belonging to her previous baby. This would help to avoid duplication. There are many gifts on the market exclusively for baby showers. These can even be ordered online and can be delivered to the parents-to-be if the guest cannot make it to the party.

Baby Showers provides detailed information about baby showers, baby shower decorations, baby shower favors, and more. Baby Showers is affiliated with Personalized Baby Gifts.

Dadâs Role in Making Kindergarten Great

2009-07-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

In the traditional family structure, the role of father is clearly unique. Perhaps it is because dad goes off to work and comes home with that big booming voice or maybe it's that he is a soft touch for ice cream or an extra ride on the Ferris Wheel at the State Fair but dad has a special place in the hearts of the kids. He is both the voice of authority and sometimes the voice of wise counsel when children need someone to guide them and direct them. On the other hand, it is mom who is there every day, guiding every event, making sure the children are safe and cared for. Both jobs are crucial and beloved by the kids, even if they don't know it or say so. So when the time comes to get your little one ready for kindergarten, it may be that both parents can have a big role in this transition as well. There is no doubt that in terms of the physical preparations for kindergarten, mom is a big decision maker. The clothing that your new student will wear, buying the right school supplies and even buying the extra things that will be needed in the classroom are all good jobs for the primary shopper in the family which is often mom. But if you can get dad in on the act particularly in the mental and emotional preparations for kindergarten, that can be a huge help because he can use his mentoring role to give the child permission to begin to accept this big change. This is especially true in the case of dad's little man. A young boy often idolizes his father and admires him as a hero because dad is brave and able to go out and conquer the world each day. When the family goes on the trip, it is dad who is leading the way, slaying the dragons along the way, saving the fair maiden (mom or sis) and hunting food for dinner (paying at the restaurant). In the child's imaginary world, dad is a combination of mighty warrior, master hunter and mighty wizard. These are some powerful images that you can tap to help that little guy see himself as ready to the big adventure of going off to kindergarten on his own for the first time. If you can get dad to be the one to drive that slightly frightened little one to school, he often knows just what to say to change fear into excitement and to motivate his son or daughter to want to go in there and do great to make dad proud. That is the nature of the father's role in the lives of his children. So why not use it to help your child through this very important day in his or her early childhood development? Very often dads have a special bond and a special language they speak to their sons. To an outsider when dad says, "Get in there and be a man" to his little boy, that may sound harsh and not nurturing. But what the little guy hears is, "I know you can do it. When you go to kindergarten like a man, you are being a brave warrior like daddy." And that is just the right language to motivate that little guy to face his fears and go to that first day of kindergarten and be a big success to live up to that strong affirmation and high expectation of daddy. PPPPP Word Count 596

Baby Shower Prizes And Favors

2009-07-15T05:04:00.000-07:00

The focus of every baby shower is helping provide the mother to be with the tools she will need to fully care for her new little one. Your baby shower will be no different! But offering your guests baby shower prizes and favors that they can take home with them to thank them for their gifts and commemorate the special day is a gesture that is well worth the time spent in preparation.

What Baby Shower Prizes Will You Choose?

Your baby shower guest list will likely include everyone from an 80 year old grandmother to a childless career minded adult to a few kids of all ages � and men. What prizes will make all of these people happy? That�s the challenge. Here are a few ideas for your baby shower game prizes:

* Purchase a variety of prize types and mark them so that you know who to hand to whom when a winner of a certain age or gender is ready to claim their prize.

* Everyone has to eat! Gift certificates for a pound of candy or dinner at a local restaurant will be appreciated by all.

* For girls only parties, gifts like picture frames, picture albums, candles, and bath and beauty products like bubble bath and hand lotion will suit anyone.

What Baby Shower Favors Will You Choose?

Baby shower favors are somewhat more challenging than prizes for the games. You may create bags for the men, bags for the women, and bags for kids if you like, but it�s easier if you have something that you can give to everyone. Remember, the focus of the baby shower is the baby and the new mom, so the favors can focus on that rather than the guest in particular. Here are some ideas:

* Small puzzles

* Inexpensive handheld games

* Chocolate

* A small picture frame for the new baby�s picture

* A small candle and holder

Make Your Own Baby Shower Favors

A fun game for your baby shower could involve your guests making their own baby shower favors as one of the games. Perhaps you could provide doll parts so that everyone can create their own baby, craftier friends may be interested in using fabric paints on quilt squares to create hankies � even a do it yourself cookie decorating party with some take home boxes make a great baby shower favor and take the pressure off you of coming up with another baby shower game!

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, Califoia. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides baby shower tips on www.eazybabyshower.com

Family: How to Spend Quality Time with Your Kids

2009-07-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Are you a mother who is also a career-oriented woman? If you are, you may have number of different issues tugging at your heart. In today's society, many mothers are fearful of putting their family first, especially in certain circumstances, in fear of losing their jobs. With that in mind, there are many mothers who are fearful that their children will grow up resenting them due to the amount of time they spent focused on work. While being a mother and a career-oriented woman, all at the same time, may seem like an impossible task, it is a task that you can more than perform. What you need to remember, although difficult as it may be, is that you should be a mom first. However, that doesn't mean that you should just toss your workload to the side and not care. There are a number of different ways that you can go about being a good parent, while still brining home an income. One of those ways involves spending quality time with your child or children when you are not working. One of the best ways for you to go about spending quality time with your child or children is by creating a schedule for yourself. This schedule can be used to outline any important events that you and your child or children have planned. Although your schedule does not need to be followed right down to the letter, it is important to have one. Mothers who create schedules for themselves are more likely to follow through with their plans. Speaking of your plans, you may be wondering what you should do to spend quality time with your child or children. Of course, it is important to keep your child's age in mind. A child who is three years old will prefer different activities than one who is nine or ten years old. With that in mind, there are a number of different activities that many children, including those of all ages, love. A few of those activities are outlined below for your convenience. One activity that you may want to think about doing with your child or children is taking them to the zoo. Regardless of where you live, you should have a zoo within a reasonable driving distance to your home. Zoo trips are fun and exciting, as they often last all day. What is nice about zoo trips is that they are fun and educational all at the same time. This means that your quality time can benefit your child or children in more ways than one. Another activity that you may want to think about doing is taking your child or children to the movies. Whether your child is three years old or fifteen years old, there should be a movie playing that would likely interest them. Going to the movies is nice, as many children view it as a treat. For more affordable movie tickets, you may want to think about going to see a movie with your family during the daytime. Additional activities that many children enjoy are those of park visits, museum visits, and sporting events. In all honestly, it really doesn't matter what you do. To your child or children, how matter what their age, they will likely just appreciate the fact that you took some time away from work to have fun with them, no matter what the activity. PPPPP Word Count 568

Bringing Up A Baby Balancing Discipline And Love

2009-07-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

I think few would disagree that one of the essentials of baby care comes in the form of love. Apart from the obvious need of sustenance to survive, love comes at the top of a baby's needs, and that continues right through childhood into the teenage years. Most teenagers would not admit it; most young children struggle to express it; and babies cannot express it. But, children of any age need love.

Something else that is needed throughout a child's upbringing is discipline; a sensible level of discipline from which the child will benefit throughout their adult lives. The application of discipline can seem to become more difficult as a child gets older, in direct proportion to the child's ability to express themselves assertively. In reality, though, applying discipline to a baby can be every bit as difficult, because it is a much more subtle and less obvious process.

A teenager ignoring your 10pm curfew is a blatant discipline problem. To some, a one year old baby crying because they are being taken from their toys to have a bath and go to bed, is not even about discipline, and they may not think of it as such. They love the baby, want it to be happy and, despite knowing that the baby should sleep, feel pity and put her back with her toys.

Does a Baby Need Discipline?

Discipline with a child is usually about testing boundaries; the boundaries of what they are allowed to do and what they are not allowed to do. If they do not like the answer, they protest and test again; and again. If the boundary they are trying to break gives way easily, it encourages them to go back and do it again.

If the boundary holds firm, with a consistent parent being calmly unbending, then the baby or infant will give up..eventually. Patience and consistency are vital to the discipline, otherwise the baby will become confused; they will not lea what is acceptable and what is not, if one day you give into their protests, and on another day you do not.

In the example above, the baby has successfully used tears to get their way against the parent's better judgement. Bath and bed time have been delayed, with a two fold result. Firstly, she will not sleep at the time that is best for her, and she will become crotchety and over tired, and cry even louder with the next attempt to put her to bed. Secondly, her success at preventing the bath will bolster her for next time; she has leat that yelling will get her own way.

About a decade ago, while I still lived in the UK, there was a study into teenagers, to find out what it was they most needed to make their lives happier and better. More than half said they really wanted more discipline; yes, "wanted".

Discipline has been allowed to evaporate across some Weste societies, with a result that teenagers have felt that there is an absence of necessary discipline in their lives. However, there is no need to allow your baby to become just one more in the statistics of undisciplined children.

Does a baby need discipline? In my opinion, and based on my own experience, the answer is a resounding "yes".

Can Love and Discipline Mix?

From the perspective of a "second time around" parent, I would say that not only do love and discipline mix, they are mutually essential. Working from home, I have been able to observe our baby daughter for two years. I have also been here all the time to apply "discipline" and to provide heaps of love, affection and cuddles.

I am of the view that love is not only an essential for a happy baby, it also the parents' most powerful weapon when it comes to discipline. How can that be? By threatening to withdraw your love if the baby is naughty?

No, there is no need to make any threats at all. The baby needs love and they adore their parents. You are, in the main, their life. As they recognize you are not happy when they do something wrong, what will discipline them in the end is their deep desire for you to be happy with them, to praise them, and to show your love for them.

If a baby's naughtiness threatens their ideal world, by observing the negative effect on you, the baby will lea to steer things back onto a course where you are happy with them, praise them again, and show your love. They will not only say they are sorry, they will mean it, because they truly are. To that extent, discipline becomes self discipline by the baby if there is enough love in the home to make them yea for that love more than anything else.

I am not saying disciplining any baby is easy, but with sufficient love it can be a relatively smooth process if you see things from the baby's point of view, and understand that the baby, deep down, wants to please you more than anything else.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

This baby care article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the Bouncing New Baby website. He is also responsible for the Baby Blog

Internet and Kids: How Young Is Too Young?

2009-07-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Are you a parent? If you are, you may be curious as to when children regularly start using the inteet. In all honesty, you will find that it depends. There are some parents who start their children with using a computer and the inteet right away and others wait until their children need to do so for school. So, how young is too young for your child to use the inteet? What many parents, especially first time parents, do not realize is that some elementary schools teach their children how to use a computer as young as first grade. Of course, they may not lea how to surf the inteet, but they do often lea the basics. These basics may include leaing how to type, how to tu on a computer, how to use a computer mouse, and so froth. In keeping with young age, there are many parents who allow their toddlers and preschoolers to play computer games. Although software for those games can be purchased online or in most media stores, some parents tu to the inteet. The good news about this approach is that many trusted websites, like those for Nick Jr, PBS Kids, and PlayHouse Disney do not have harmful advertisements on their websites that your child could accidentally click on. Young elementary school children are also likely to use the inteet and a computer in general to play computer games. Towards the fifth or sixth grade, children may start to use the inteet to do research for school projects. This is when it is really important to start monitoring your child's use of the inteet. Even if your child doesn't use online social networking websites, use inteet chat rooms, or visit poographic websites, it doesn't mean that they can't accidentally come across them. Some websites are not very careful with what advertisements they show. Junior high school and high school students, honestly, need the most monitoring online. These are students who not only use the inteet to research, but to communicate with their friends and to make new friends. Unfortunately, not all teenagers are educated on the dangers that lurk online, especially where inteet chat rooms and social networking websites are conceed. So, is your child ready to use a computer and the inteet? As stated above, it is your decision to make. With that being said, be sure to use your best judgment and be sure to establish some firm ground rules. Children who are at least seven years of age should never be allowed to use a computer alone. Strict rules should be imposed for older children. Speaking of inteet safety rules, be sure to make your views on social networking websites and inteet chat rooms clear. If you don't want your child to use them, state so. If they are allowed, establish rules. A few rules to get you started involve making a social networking website profiles private, not communicating directly with strangers, not trading personal information online, and not posting personal pictures or videos online. As a reminder, you have the ability to determine when and where you child can access the inteet. Just be sure that if you do allow your child to use the inteet that you establish ground rules. Even toddlers and preschoolers should be able to follow these rules, such as only playing games on the website you get them set on. PPPPP Word Count 565

How Can I Teach My Toddler to Share

2009-07-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

Helping your child move from breast breast milk or formula to solids is a milestone for both you and your baby. However, it can be challenging for some parents. Here are some tips and tricks I've compiled for introducing solid foods to your baby. Do remember, however, that you should follow your pediatrician's advice if you're in doubt.

Start with fruits One tip I've heard from various is to start with fruits. Use really ripe bananas, mashed with a fork. Or sweet potatoes (baked, with the insides scooped out).

Use a baby food grinder You can try small bits of real rice, mixed with meats (without seasonings). The meat should be meshed with baby food grinder (you can find these pretty cheap).

Don't feed your baby directly from the jar This is an interesting tip I've heard from experienced mothers. Feeding your baby directly from the jar is not a good idea. Their saliva can mix with the food and make it taste bad. Put the food in a mug rather than a bowl so that you can feed baby more easily.

Keep away the sweet tooth Try not to give baby sweet stuff at this stage. Deliberately give them vegetables before fruits to keep away that sweet tooth.

Wait for the first tooth It is a good idea to wait until your baby gets his / her first tooth before even thinking of starting solids. One baby (I heard) got his first tooth at 5 months and began showing interest in what his father was eating shortly thereafter. At about 6 months, he was reaching for his parents' food.

Starting your baby on solids need not be a difficult task. Hopefully the above tips will help you somewhat when that time arrives for your baby.

About The Author

Gary Hendricks is the editor of www.baby-product-guide.com, a hobby website offering articles on parenting, baby care and baby products.

gary_hendricks@baby-product-guide.com

Eating to Prevent Heartburn

2009-07-14T05:22:00.000-07:00

Heartbu does not just affect those who are high stressed or love their spicy foods. Pregnant women suffer from heartbu too. You will find as your pregnancy progresses that antacids tend to become your best friend. Heartbu has nothing to do with your heart. It is when the acid from your stomach leaks up into the esophagus. Heartbu is very common during pregnancy. In fact one in four women experience heartbu during their pregnancy usually during the third trimester. The reason is that your baby has grown a tremendous amount and your uterus has moved up and is now putting pressure on your stomach. This crowds the digestive tract and allows acids to travel back up the esophagus. There is an old wives tale that if you have bad heartbu, your baby will have a lot of hair. Of course there is no proof in this but it is a fun thing to believe in. There are ways you can help prevent heartbu during pregnancy. You can start by taking your time while you eat. Not only will you enjoy your food better but your stomach will not have to work as hard to digest your food. You also want to try eating early and eat at least two hours before you go to bed that night so your body has plenty of time to digest your food. Keep your meals small. Stick with eating six small meals through out the day. Large meals tend to stuff up your stomach which is already extra squashed thanks to your uterus. A stuffed stomach makes it that more likely that some of the food along with stomach acid will make its way back up the esophagus. Also, make sure you keep your fluids and solids separate. Too much fluid mixed with too much food can distend the stomach which can aggravate heartbu. You also want to eat sitting up. Don't eat while lying down, and if you are having a bed time snack make sure you are propped up by pillows. Your weight plays a part in how much heartbu you may experience. The heavier you are, the more pressure you are placing on your esophageal sphincter. This is another reason why you should not gain to much more than the recommended amount. Find out what foods cause your heartbu. Once you figure out what foods cause heartbu, you can cut them out of your diet. Some foods you might want to steer clear of are highly seasoned spicy foods, soda, tomatoes sauce, chocolate, and some citrus. Greasy foods are also a big contributor to heartbu. Cutting out greasy, fried food is going to help with your heartbu prevention. When all else fails, take something for your heartbu. Tums and Rolaids are perfectly safe to take during pregnancy. If you are not comfortable taking any over the counter medicines try some natural ways such as eating a handful of almonds. Almonds are a stomach settler and might help with your heartbu. Another natural remedy is a tablespoon of honey mixed with milk is a favorite for preventing heartbu. Like with some pregnancy discomforts, heartbu is one that can be avoided as long as you take the steps and eat properly. Even without suffering from a lot of heartbu, your baby still could be bo with a full head of hair.

Bringing Up a Smart Happy Baby How Babywearing Makes a Difference

2009-07-14T01:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how you can get your baby to stop crying? How you can get something done around the house when your baby doesn�t want to be put down? Have you wondered how you will get out and about now that you have a baby?

Babywearing will calm your baby down, let you work with both hands free, and give you complete freedom to get out of house � all while your baby is securely on your body.

Even celebrity mamas are realizing just how wonderful babywearing is. Mamas like Angelina Jolie, Michelle Williams, Liv Tyler, and Joely Fisher have all been spotted wearing their babies around.

Babywearing is easy � just pick up one of the many baby carriers on the market and pop your baby inside. Most carriers come with clear photo instructions and some even come with videos to help you lea to wear your baby!

Your baby will love being close to your body. A fussy baby is soothed by the rocking motion as you walk with him in the carrier. It's similar to how he felt in the womb � including the close, cradled position.

As your baby grows you can carry her sitting up and facing out or straddling your hip. She can see the world and you can get out in the world! Your baby will be able to interact with others in a way that is just not possible when she�s strapped into a baby carrier or stroller.

Babies in traditional societies were able to lea how their family and culture worked right from the start - because they were right there with their mothers. Your baby can have the same benefit. Your baby will pick up on language quickly because he�ll be listening to you as you talk with other adults.

The shifting and bouncing that your child gets in the baby carrier will help enhance her sense of balance. She'll gain muscle tone and strength as she travels with you and leas how to adjust her body in the sling or carrier. It will also make her happy to be an active part of your day.

Having your baby snuggled in the sling or cheerfully straddling your hip will leave your hands free to get some things done. Some baby carriers even allow you to put your older child on your back. What fun for baby and how nice for you! You�ll easily be able to handle the housework. And you'll be able to take your baby out without having to lug a heavy stroller or baby carrier.

Your sling or baby carrier will also keep your baby close to you. People are less likely to ask to hold your baby while she is safely in the baby carrier. You can nurse your baby discreetly in a sling. And when you are in crowded areas your baby will feel more secure and be happier � meaning you can still hit your favorite malls or enjoy popular natural trails.

Wearing your baby in a baby carrier will result in a happier, more secure baby. And you'll be a happy mama (or maybe daddy!) knowing that you can take care of life and still get out to play � all with your bouncing baby on your hip!

Kristen Hart is the owner of Natural Birth and Baby Care.com, a website devoted to healthy pregnancy, natural birth, and the best baby care. You can lea more about babywearing and research all different types of baby carriers at http://www.naturalbirthandbabycare.com/natural-baby-care.html

How to Discuss Internet Safety with Your Teen

2009-07-14T01:11:00.000-07:00

Are you the parent of a teenager who uses the inteet? If you are, have you already had the inteet safety talk with your teenager? If you haven't, it is time for that talk to occur. As nice as it is to be able to use the inteet for school research projects or to communicate with friends online, it is important to remember that the inteet can also be a danger to children and teenagers. As nice as it is to hear that you should talk to your teenager about inteet safety, you may be curious as to how you can go about doing so. Brining up the subject can be hard, as your teen may automatically become defensive. The good news is that you do have a number of different options. One of those options is to just go for it. When you outright discuss inteet safety with your teenager, make sure that you pick a good time to have the talk. Don't start ranting right away about your teen's inteet use and the dangers after a disagreement or when tensions are already high. With teenagers, this can lead to other problems. It may cause your teenager to not listen to you just for the point of not listening or they may purposely defy you. Another option that you have, when looking to discuss inteet safety with your child, is to wait until your child gets off the computer. When they walk away, ask them if they know about being safe online and the dangers that the inteet has. This is a great opener, when your child is already using the computer. It may make you sound less like an overprotective, overbearing parent, at least in the eyes of your teenager. When discussing inteet safety with your teenager, it is important to not assume that your child already knows. Even if your child stops you and tells you they already know how to be safe online, don't stop. Be sure to restate your point and establish any inteet rules you would like your child to follow. It is important to remember that many teenagers think they know everything, but many don't. For example, your child may know that there are inteet predators out there, but do they also know that pictures of them smoking or drinking underage could get them suspended from school or even arrested, no matter how "cool," they look on a MySpace page? Speaking of MySpace, it is important to know what you should talk to your child about. Since many teenagers use MySpace and other similar social networking websites, they should be discussed. Make sure your child knows that anyone can hide behind a computer, even a sexual predator. Also, let them know the dangers of posting personal information and pictures on their social networking profiles. In addition to social networking websites, like MySpace, inteet chat rooms should also be discussed. Inteet chat rooms are different, but similar in nature to instant messaging programs, like AOL or MSN. Generally speaking, instant messaging programs are safer for teens to use, as they aren't automatically paired up and thrown into a chat room with other inteet users, who are essentially strangers. As with social networking websites, make sure that your child knows that they could, essentially, be talking to anyone. Tell them to get out of a chat room right away if the tone tus sexual in nature or if they receive a private message from someone who makes them feel uncomfortable. You may also want to discuss personal blogs. Many websites, like Blogger.com and WordPress.com allow inteet users to start free blogs. Many teens find this a nice and easy way to vent or allow their friends to stay up-to-date on their thoughts. Your teenager needs to know that anyone can view these blogs, so their information really isn't private and personal, say as a handwritten joual. As you can see, there are a number of different ways that you can go about discussing inteet safety with your teenager. Remember to do so, however, before it is too late. Any child who uses the inteet should be well aware of the dangers that lurk. PPPPP Word Count 698

Designer Baby Gifts

2009-07-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

Bringing up a baby is not a cheap affair. Parents have to work harder and harder to save money to give their newbo the things they need and deserve. Parents always desire the best in this world for their baby. To cater to this desire, the market has available designer clothes and toys.

A baby dressed in designer clothes always stands out in a crowd and is so adorable to look at. Monogrammed clothes, each specially designed, are also spectacular gifts. More and more parents want their baby to be clothed in designer clothes. As a result, designers now target some of their business at babies and are seeing a marginal profit. Some people think the idea of a baby wearing designer clothes is outrageous, because a baby usually outgrows his clothes in a year or two.

Aside from cloths, there are wonderful and useful designer baby gifts available. Some of these gifts include baby blankets, baby fuiture, books, videos and DVDs. Books, videos and DVDs are great because they are education and a lot of fun. They come packed in attractively designed baby gift baskets.

Designer diaper bags are another popular item among designer baby gifts. The bags are elegantly designed and durable. They are leak-proof with room for bottles, diapers, wipes and all the little things that a baby needs while on the move. Diaper bags come in lovely colors and exquisite materials and are machine washable. Each bag is unique in its style and look.

Silver makes an ideal gift for babies. Silver combs, cups and frames are included in this group. Designers work meticulously on the designs and details of these in-demand wares that will be treasured as keepsakes forever. Designer jewelry for babies is also an elegant gift. Another option is to give baby gift certificates. These allow parents the opportunity to decide among a wide choice of designer baby gifts available. Now that your new bundle of joy has arrived, consider the best -- designer baby gifts.

Baby Gifts provides detailed information about baby gifts, baby gift registries, and more. Baby Gifts is affiliated with Games For Baby Showers.

Physical Punishment is Ineffective and Harmful

2009-07-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

Effective discipline does not involve physical punishment of children. Recent studies have shown a direct link between physical punishment and several negative developmental outcomes for children including physical injury, increased aggression, antisocial behavior, difficulty adjusting as an adult and a higher tolerance towards violence. Research has also shown that physical punishment poses a risk to the safety and development of children. It is crucial for parents to gain an awareness of other approaches to discipline because it is all too simple for physical punishment to tu into child abuse and result in severe physical injury, detrimental emotional damage and even death. Each year thousands of children continue to die as a result of physical abuse. Children have a right to be protected from physical abuse, and laws in every state demand severe punishment for those found guilty of physically harming a child. Most parents do not want to use physical punishment as a form of discipline. A child that lives in an abusive environment is likely to grow up and either be abusive themselves or have severe social, emotional, physical and cognitive delays in development. Parents' disciplinary methods serve as strong models to children that teach them how to deal with life's day-to-day challenges. It is important for parents to model appropriate behavior and to establish expectations as well as limits. Children have a right to live in a safe, secure and nurturing environment, and their dignity must be respected. Parents must consistently use fair and logical consequences whenever children fail to follow rules. They must keep in mind that a child is not a miniature adult, but only a child and that discipline must be age appropriate and fit the child's temperament and maturity. Adults who recognize they have a problem with physically abusing their children should immediately seek professional help and ensure their children are taken to a safe environment to avoid harming them further.

Home Remedies For Baby Eczema

2009-07-13T02:39:00.000-07:00

If your baby is suffering from eczema, you know how uncomfortable the itchy and dry skin can be, not to mention the sore spots. Since eczema usually goes hand in hand with sensitive skin, treating it can be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully there are quite a few home remedies for baby eczema you can try.

Moisturize

Keeping baby's skin well moisturized should always be the first step in any eczema treatment. Use a natural aloe Vera lotion several times a day, especially after bathing baby. Reapply as often as need to keep baby's skin from drying out. Avoid any harsh cleansers and make sure baby is getting plenty to drink to moisturize from the inside out as well. Incidentally breastfed babies experience fewer and milder episodes of eczema.

Oatmeal Bath

When baby's skin gets very itchy, an oatmeal bath can be very soothing and help skin heal. Put two cups of oats in a food processor (or use a coffee grinder) and grind them into a powder. Add the oatmeal powder to a running bath of warm (not hot) water and stir well. Soak in the oatmeal bath for 15 minutes, rinse with clean water and dab the skin dry with a soft towel. When baby's eczema breakouts are bad, it is safe to sooth them with an oatmeal bath twice daily.

Natural Skin Wash

As mentioned above, you want to avoid any harsh skin care for baby. The following natural skin wash is very gently and helps with the itch. Combine 1 tsp of comfrey root, 1 tsp of white oak bark, 1 tsp of slippery elm bark and two cups of water in a bowl. Mix well, and then pour it into a pot. Heat over medium heat until it comes to a boil, and then simmer for thirty minutes. Allow the mixture to cool, then strain out the solids and use the liquid like any face wash.

While this mixture may not completely clear up baby's eczema, it is a natural, gentle and effective cleanser that will help reduce the itching and inflammation.

Healing Lotions

When eczema really flares up, you want to get baby's skin healed back up as soon as possible. Healing lotions can help shorten the healing time and moisturize and protect your skin from future outbreaks at the same time.

Lotions to look for ate those made with blueberry leaves. Blueberry leaves are very good at relieving the inflammation of eczema and at improving the irritation that accompanies itching.

Zinc is another great ingredient. Apply zinc lotion directly on the affected area. Zinc can also be taken as a supplement in pills. Taking regularly, it can be an effective eczema treatment.

To help heal the skin, use a lotion containing vitamin E, or apply vitamin E oil directly on the affected area. It will quickly reduce itching and improve healing. Continue applying the vitamin E oil until the skin is healed.

Reduce Irritants

Some babies experience eczema because they are allergic to detergents, which are found in nearly all personal care, cleaning and laundry products. You may want to investigate using pure soap for all cleaning and laundry as well as bathing for some time to see if your baby's eczema improves.

Eczema can also occur as a result of food allergies. If you have a family history of food or environmental allergy, your baby may also be experiencing sensitivities to something in his diet or environment. Check with your baby's health care provider and consider an elimination diet or other measures to track down allergens.

Typically, babies outgrow eczema, or at the very least, it will improve as he gets older.

This article is provided for information purposes only. Please consult your baby's health care provider before trying home remedies.

Visit http://www.NaturalBabyWorld.com for resources and helpful tips to assist you in raising your baby, naturally!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carrie_Lauth

Baby R Us: One Stop Baby Shop

2009-07-13T02:35:00.000-07:00

If Toys 'R Us is a company that offers various toys for kids, what does Baby R Us offer? No way! It's not babies! Baby R Us offers baby products. In 1996, Westbury, New York, Baby R Us opened its first store. It has been immediately followed with opening six more branches on different locations at the end of the year. After tremendous expansion and joining the Baby Superstore chain, Baby R Us store count has reach 218 at the beginning of 2005. What a mammoth feat for a baby store, right? Babies R Us is considered a pioneer in retailing premier baby products. It is said to be the biggest store chain in the world that provides baby products. They have stores and online stores that assist in giving a unique and fun shopping experience for their consumers. It has a state-of-the-art baby registry service that provides more convenience when shopping for your baby's needs. Baby R Us also has a Mother's room that attends to babies' necessities. It has an online store that contains various helpful features that include the following: The Baby Registry service is a product of Babies R Us teaming up with Amazon.com. Parents that are expecting their baby are permitted to create an online baby registry or update a registry that was set up on one of the Babies R Us stores nationwide. What this registry rids the parents is the inconvenience of surmounting geographic barriers and presumption of which products suit your baby. This way, when your friends and relatives plan to buy your baby a gift, it won't be that much of a hassle anymore. All that they have to do is go online, select, buy and get the gift delivered to you on time. All the land-based Baby R Us stores allow all purchase retus as an added feature. Baby R Us also constantly maintains a "Top Seller List" that usually include educational baby equipment, baby books, a pregnant mom's book, diaper accessories, comfy baby bouncer, play gyms, baby call nursery monitors, a changing pad, monitors with dual receivers, an infant car seat base, baby wraps, toddler rockers, baby swings, nursery care kits, feeding bottle set, etc. Baby R Us online store also allows browsers to check on different brands of baby products that suit their preferences. The following are the categories that Baby R Us provides various brands of products on: gear, activity, toys, nursery, health and safety, specialty stores, feeding, bath and potty, and clothing and layette. Baby R Us also presents gift ideas to those who want to share some goodies to their little kids, nephews, nieces, granddaughter or grandsons. A gift set is always considered a hit in making parents with their babies smile with appreciation. These are often in baby gift basket forms that contain various items that deal with the parents and baby's needs. There are also these "Parents Favorite" items and Babies R Us' basic gift ideas that are never surmounted by novel items. Gift certificates are also available as treats to the parents-to-be. Baby R Us even added "new baby" or "pregnancy" e-card. Along with this e-card, the option of an e-mail or a paper gift certificate is still offered. Babies R Us online even has this resource center page that includes various buying guides, checklists, articles, advices and other information that will both benefit the parents and the baby.

How to Meet the Dietary Needs of Babies Health Palate and Lifestyle

2009-07-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

More and more studies are proving that food has a large impact on our overall health and may even determine which diseases and ailments we will get later in life. The more we are aware of the importance of our food choices the earlier we can teach and protect our children. Of course there is always a balance to strike between what�s good for our body and what�s good for our taste buds and lifestyle. Here is a description of the most important nutrients for your child�s development and which foods meet their needs.

Iron
Babies are bo with their own source of iron, but this will be depleted after six months. Iron is absorbed best if it is from meat, however the vegetarian baby can increase iron absorption by eating foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries, spinach, tomatoes) with meals. Giving milk separately from meals also promotes absorption. Vegetarian iron rich foods include pureed apricots, molasses, fortified cereals, refined lentils, beans and green vegetables.

Calcium
Breast milk or formula provides all your baby�s calcium needs initially. Calcium helps teeth and bones and promotes overall strength. Good sources later include: cow�s milk, fortified soy milk and orange juice, cheeses, molasses, dark green vegetables, beans, lentils and tofu.

Protein
Babies require more protein than adults because of their rapid growth. A one year old child needs about 15 grams or two cups of protein per day, such as milk, cheese, beans, tofu, fish, poultry and lean meats. Combination foods such as grains (bread, pasta, rice) with beans, lentils, avocados, cheeses or tofu will provide the balance needed for vegetarian babies.

Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is usually found in animal products, such as meat and chicken. Other non-meat sources include dairy products and eggs, as well as fortified foods such as soy milk and cereals.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is made from the action of the sunlight on the skin. Most children in warm climates receive adequate Vitamin D (20-30 minutes a day, 2 to 3 times per week). Dietary sources of vitamin D include dairy products, eggs and fortified foods. Breast milk or formula will provide vitamin D in the beginning stages. Some pediatricians recommend vitamin D supplements.

Fiber
Most of your baby�s fiber needs will be met with fruits and vegetables and cereal. Be careful as a diet too high in fiber and whole grains can fill up a child before their nutritional needs have been met and interfere with absorption of minerals such as zinc, iron and calcium. Too much fiber may also cause diarrhea or an upset stomach to your baby.

Zinc
Zinc is important for healthy immune systems and growth. Offer your child plenty of food rich in zinc such as wheat germ, lean meats, milk, lentils, beans, peas, co and soybeans. Zinc, like iron may be a problem for vegetarian babies because of poor absorption.

Fat
Infants receive 40 � 50% of their calories from fat, through breast milk or formula. After the first 12 months, your baby will receive fat from whole cow�s milk. After age two, the Pediatric Panel of the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends reducing fat calories to 30% or less of total diet. This is the time to switch from whole milk and dairy products to low fat versions. Healthy fat sources include walnuts, canola oil, avocado, milk, cheese and yogurt.

Antioxidants
These are important early on as they prevent damage to developing DNA. The average American family eats only 50% of what is recommended. Vegetables and fruits are the best source of antioxidants including: sweet potatoes, carrots, kiwi, broccoli, avocados, and blueberries.

Water
Babies get water from formula and breast milk early on. However once solids are introduced they may need more liquids to aid swallowing. Water is needed for hydration as children become more active.

The nutrients listed above are good for all ages. While they contribute to your child�s development they also keep adults healthy and free from diseases. You are the expert when it comes to your family and child. If you have a conce, trust your instinct and find someone to help you with health and nutrition questions and problems � pediatricians, nutritionists, dieticians, and lactation consultants are the perfect resources. Typically steady growth is best proof that your child is getting the right amount of food.

Lisa Baes is the founder of Petit Appetit, a culinary service devoted to the palates and health of infants and toddlers. She teaches in-home private cooking classes to parents, nannies, mothers� groups, and parenting resources throughout Northe Califoia and is the author of The Petit Appetit Cookbook (published by Penguin Books, March 2005).

Her mission is for children to eat more healthfully, and parents to feel empowered to provide tasty and healthy food for their family. Good food should be about nutrition and taste, and bringing the family together.

For more information on Petit Appetit or The Petit Appetit Cookbook go to http://www.petitappetit.com

How to Meet the Dietary Needs of Babies Health Palate and Lifestyle

Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is usually found in animal products, such as meat and chicken. Other non-meat sources include dairy products and eggs, as well as fortified foods such as soy milk and cereals.

For more information on Petit Appetit or The Petit Appetit Cookbook go to http://www.petitappetit.com

Tonsils and Tonsillitis in Children

2009-07-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

Tonsils are two tissue balls located at the back of the throat. They play a vital role and are an important part of the body's infection fighting mechanism by helping to fight germs and diseases. Tonsils deal with the germs before they reach mouth, throat, or sinuses. When these infection fighters are infected by viruses or bacteria, the condition is known as tonsillitis. The symptoms of tonsillitis are: as the time passes, eating, drinking and swallowing things become difficult. The pain can be accompanied with fever, earache and headache. The tonsils can be seen too. Just open the mouth wide open and the two masses of tissues at the either side of the throat are tonsils. They are usually dark pink in color, but when they get infected they tu red. A white or yellow coating can also be formed on the tonsils. There is an obvious change in voice as it becomes hoarser. The infected child can also develop bad breath. The infected kid can also get abdominal pain and can throw up what he eats. Tonsillitis is caused by both bacterial infection and viral infection. Bacterium known as streptococci causes infections which require special treatment. When the child gets tonsillitis, the parent should give lots of fluids to drink. Smooth food should be consumed to ease the pain caused by swallowing coarse, crunchy, and hard food. Food like soups, ice creams, applesauce, and gelatin are a good option. Spicy food should also be avoided. A humidifier or cool mist vaporizer can be placed in the child's room as that will make breathing more easily. The kid must be given maximum rest and complete bed rest for at least two days is recommended. The bacteria and viruses cause tonsillitis to spread by sneezing, coughing or touching. The infected child must cover his/her mouth while coughing and sneezing. A disposable tissue can be used instead of a towel or handkerchief. Things such as utensils, towel, clothing, etc. of the sick kid should be separated so that the rest of the family doesn't get affected. The doctor inspects the tonsils using a wooden stick known as tongue depressor, which will lower the tongue, so that the doctor can have a good look at the tonsils. After that the doctor checks the ears and nose. Heartbeat will be checked. If the doctor suspects strep, he/she will take a sample of saliva from the back of the throat using a long cotton swab, which can gag up the child a bit. After a day or two the results are received. Some doctors conduct a similar test known as rapid strep test, which give results within few minutes. Antibiotics are given when the test results come positive for strep. The bacteria get killed only when the course is completed and the correct dosage is taken at correct time. If virus is the cause of infection, there is no medicine for it and instead the body is capable of fighting the virus on its own. When the tonsils infection becomes frequent and the child finds it difficult to breath because of tonsillitis, it is recommended to get the tonsils removed. But it is the last resort after all other treatments do not do the trick, because tonsils are very important to the body's immune system. The tonsils are taken out by surgery known as tonsillectomy. After the surgery, the child won't suffer from sore throat and breathing problems anymore. The surgery won't even leave any scars. A day before the surgery, the child cannot eat or drink, to keep the child from throwing up during the operation. The operation is very short and last for only twenty minutes. Because of the anesthesia, the child won't feel a thing during the operation. And during the surgery, the tonsils are removed using an electric cautery, which is a buing tool, or a cutting tool. After the surgery, the child is given lots of fluids and after a day soft foods can also be given. Usually it takes about two weeks to completely recover from the surgery and the child can retu back to normal activities. PPPPP Word Count 693

Bye Bye Bottle

2009-07-12T00:34:00.000-07:00

It's finally time. My child is old enough to be drinking from a cup; a sippy, if not an open-mouthed one. I reason that we've been making the switch for some time�after all, it is only milk that is served in a bottle. Juice comes from a sippy cup or a juice-box�we've even leaed to get all of the juice out of the box without spilling or squeezing. But alas, it's time for us to change the way we consume liquids.

I've been trying for months to present milk in a cup. I even use a clear plastic one that lets my little lamb see the true color of what she's drinking. But she always frowns and puts the cup down, after tasting something that, in her mind, remains firmly associated with the original nutrition-delivery system.

It is interesting to hear complete strangers unabashedly holding forth on whether or not my chid ought to still be using a pacifier (they usually conclude that she shouldn't, and I go away guiltily vowing to rush her to an orthodontist to correct the supposed trouble I've caused). Then there are parents who swear their children never had any use for a pacifier, and preschools that offer the open cup at snacktime--is cup-drinking a leaed social skill? Am I supposed to shame my child into moving toward it, or will she go there naturally as she develops?

It is said that cup-drinking should begin as early as six months. I'm ashamed. My child still cries for a binky. I did hear about a woman who breastfed her child until the age of five, and I couldn't help thinking there was something odd about nursing a child who was old enough to say clearly and understandably, 'Mumma. I'm hungry.'

This, however, is not breastfeeding. We're only serving milk in a bottle three times a day, and we're careful never to do it publicly, so self-conscious we are about the public perception of our feeding practices. The prevailing wisdom says that babies shouldn't have to give up the comfort and pleasure of the bottle until after their first birthday. Okay, we're well past that point. I'm aiming for sometime before the two-year mark.

So I don't pressure her to give up binky. We tried a few times, with little success. I gave in, and bought more of them so I can change them often and have one on hand for emotional-distress emergencies. Then the missing binky tued up in the car, and Little One was granted a few more weeks of sucking pleasure. This moing I made up a batch of bottles, and just as I was about to put the nipples on them, I promised myself that at some point this month, I'll buy sippy spouts instead.

Lin Wu writes for http://little-tuips.com and is the mother of a sixteen-month-old girl.

International Organizations for Child Protection

2009-07-12T00:30:00.000-07:00

Children, around the world are the defenseless group of the society. These innocent children are the sufferers of exploitation and violence as they are incapable to express themselves or defend themselves from the ill treatment. Conflicts, discrimination or Poverty often takes away their education and home thus putting a limit on their future perspectives and daily life. In the year 1989, to improve this condition of the children one of the Inteational organizations of Child Protection, named the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child took the initiative to provide services to such affected children. This organization was constructed under the Declaration on Human Rights (1948) and under the agreements and inteational documents that excelled in the field of child protection. The rights of the children have also been a sensitive issue thus creating a necessity to clarify and correct them, to build as stronger binding force. This one of the focal Inteational organizations of Child Protection that says any person under the age of 18 years, the vital members of the society, will be taken care of in a specific manner. It also says that even though the families of these children play a vital role in their development they are should not be treated as helpless objects of charity and that they are not the property of their parents. These Inteational organizations of Child Protection have set up certain levels for their medical care, social service and education thus requesting the protection of the special rights of children to help them attain their place in a peaceful and a safer world. All govements have agreed to establish the necessary Inteational organizations of Child Protection institutions for execution and supervising of the articles, as welfare of future of any community depends on child -care. The main values of these Inteational organizations of Child Protection are best interest of the child, non-discrimination, right to life, respect to child's views, and survival and development. Special articles have been published that highlight children with minor and disable children, local populations and the requirements of the child refugees. Childcare being the major conce of the society today, these institutions has surely taken a step forward to provide help to the affected children.

Crib Bedding Beware When Purchasing Online

2009-07-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Shopping for crib bedding sets and accessories on the inteet can be convenient and fun. Many inteet retailers offer hundreds of nursery bedding collections from many of the most popular manufacturers. The selection you will find at any of these online stores can be far greater than you would find at any local store; and their prices are often better than you will find anywhere. However, take care that you fully understand each site�s shopping policies in order to protect yourself.

Most inteet retailers sell their crib bedding only on a �Special Order� basis. Often this is �special� for them, not for you. �Special Order� means they do not have your item in stock and ready for delivery to you. They only place an order with the manufacturer after receiving your order, forcing you to wait weeks or months for delivery of your merchandise. In itself, this is not unusual; but beware of inteet retailers with very restrictive policies on �Special Order� bedding. Be wary especially of inteet retailers who do not clearly state on each product page the expected shipping time for that product and their collection, cancellation, and retu policies � be suspicious if they are trying to hide these policies from you.

Most often, these retailers charge your credit card at the time you place your order, even though they will not ship your order for weeks. Their policies may say that they �must� do this in the case of �Special Orders.� Don�t believe them. They do not have to do this � they are simply choosing to. Protect yourself from future disputes by purchasing �Special Order� bedding only from inteet retailers that clearly state that your credit card will not be charged until your merchandise ships.

Many of these retailers also charge �restocking fees� for retued merchandise. This means that they will not refund your full purchase price if you wish to retu it for any reason. These �restocking fees� can be as high as 50% of your purchase price. Many also have order cancellation fees, charging you as much as 30% of the purchase price if you cancel your order before shipment. Unfortunately, most inteet retailers do not go out of their way to let you in on this little secret, so you will have to do a little research.

Robert Meier is the President of Baby Supermall LLC, an online retailer of Crib Bedding and Nursery Decor.

Food Cravings During Pregnancy

2009-07-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

Do pickles and ice cream sound good to you? How about red peppers and peanut butter? If these do, you are probably a pregnant woman who has just gone looking for that ice cream carton you know you have buried in your freezer. More than three quarters of all pregnant women experience cravings at some point. The most common cravings are for sweets, dairy products and salty foods although there are some weird cravings out there. Some women have been known to put black olives on cheesecake, while others have been known to dip fruit in salsa. As bizarre as some cravings can be, they are mainly perfectly safe. There are old wives tales that believe what you crave could be a good indication of the sex of your baby. If you are craving sweets you are having a girl. If you crave meats or cheeses, it is believed you are having a boy. Cravings are something that most women love most about pregnancy. It is when a woman is craving dirt or clay that an alarm should go off. If you should find yourself craving dirt, soil, or chalk call your doctor right away. Not only could these be harmful if you do eat them, but chances are they are a sign of iron-deficiency anemia. Most doctors believe that cravings can be nutritionally based. That is to say the cravings are a message from your body on what it needs to eat. If you are craving salts foods it could be because your body needs more sodium as your blood volume increases. If you are craving fruit, your body might need more vitamins C. The problem is sometimes the message gets lost on the way to our brain. You may find yourself craving something sweet and instead of getting berries or fruit, you find yourself gulping down snicker bars by the cart full. Cravings can be the downfall of your weight gain especially if the message is getting scrambled. There are some ways though you can help curb your cravings. For starters, eat a good breakfast. Eating a good breakfast can prevent cravings later in the day. You also want to try and make wise choices by looking for healthier alteatives. If you are dying for potato chips try eating some soy crisps. Instead of ice cream, try frozen yogurt. If you feel like candy is calling your name, snack on some frozen grapes. If you want something salty try pretzels, or even rice cakes to satisfy that urge. A good substation for soda would be some fruit juice mixed with sparkling water. Next, think small. If you are craving chocolate, you do no need to reach for a king size bar. The snack size bar will satisfy your craving just the same. If you want a brownie, have one; just do not eat the whole pan. There is nothing wrong with indulging in a few of your cravings as long as you know not to over do it. Giving in to your cravings during pregnancy does not make you a bad person and it is not something you should beat yourself up about and feel guilty about. Cravings are a normal part of pregnancy and denying yourself all the time might make you resent being pregnant. Indulge when you want to, just make sure you make wise choices and do everything in moderation.

Business Parties Baby Showers

2009-07-11T01:50:00.000-07:00

People like to party. And those in the corporate world are no exception. Popular parties among them include baby showers and new arrival celebrations. And here are some party and gift giving ideas for both.

Party Planning Ideas

Office parties can focus on a variety of themes like game night or BINGO night. Or they can focus on locations like a Hawaiian luau. Others incorporate company outings like golf outing, go karts, miniature golf, an amusement park or theater setting. Regardless of the setting and focus, you can mix in your baby shower and new arrival celebration.

Once you get the background to set the stage for your party, coordinate activities, food & beverages, music and any other items you need to. Then you�re set to go. For example, your baby shower activities could include:

1. Baby BINGO � using baby terms

2. Baby golf � put to win baby apparel and toys, then donate to the new parent at the end.

3. Baby movie � book a theater and watch �Three Men and a Baby� or other baby-movie.

Gift Giving Ideas

Giving gifts at business parties can be creative and fun, too. Tie in themed gifts with the rest of the party. For example, give colorful Hawaiian apparel for baby and parents (matching tie-dyed t-shirts and flip-flops). Assemble or buy a nice baby gift basket choc full of stuff for baby like lotion, shampoo, booties, toys, blankets, etc. And box up some family fun with movie rental coupons, boxes of microwave popco, candy bars, coloring books, crayons, markers, tablets and yoyos for siblings.

1. Use wrapping paper that matches your party theme.

2. Add silly trinkets that match the theme to package tags and ribbons.

3. Attach a themed gift card that everyone signs

So join in the merry-making. Plan or at least attend the next business bash and have fun!

About The Author
Andy Henry is a marketing consultant working with small businesses in a variety of sectors.
http://www.babyjoygifts.co.uk is dedicated to bringing high-quality gift baskets to the world.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Henry

Motion Sickness in Children

2009-07-11T01:46:00.000-07:00

Children usually feel sick in the stomach when travelling in a car, airplane, boat or train. This sickness is known as motion sickness. This sickness is caused by reception of wrong signals by eyes, muscles, skin receptors, and inner ears. While travelling, different body parts send different signals to the brain. Eyes see things around and it sends signals about the direction of movement while in motion. The joint sensory receptors and muscles send signals about the movement of the muscles and the position in which the body is. The skin receptors send signals about the parts of the body which are in contact with the ground. The inner ears have a fluid in the semicircular canals. This fluid senses motion and the direction of motion like forward, backward, up, down, circular, or to and fro. When the brain gets timely reports from the various body parts, it tries to find a relation between all the signals and then sketches a picture about the body's movement and position at a particular instant. But when the brain isn't able to find a link and isn't able to draw a picture out of the received signals, the condition called motion sickness is experienced. For example, if a child is riding in a car and reading something at the same time, the eyes will see stationary book. But the skin receptors and the inner ears will sense the body moving in a forward direction. The eyes and the muscle receptors will send signals that the body is not moving. This confuses the brain and everything is jumbled up in the head. This makes the child dizzy, sick in the stomach and even tired. There is a possibility of the child throwing up, so it is recommended that the parents carry a sick bag each time they are travelling with kids. And if the child is feeling anxious or scared, the condition can deteriorate further. Although there are medicines available over the counter to deal with motion sickness, some measures should be taken to avoid medicine and also motion sickness. The child should always be made to sit facing in the forward direction. He/she should not face or sit backwards, nor should he be made to sit in a seat facing backwards. This helps the ears and the eyes to send similar kind of signal. It is good if the kid isn't involved in some kind of activity like reading, playing video games or something which is stationary. He/she must be asked to look outside, especially at things which are located at a distance. The same applies when travelling in an airplane. When travelling in a boat, the child can go to the upper deck and look at the horizon. Basically, the child must be made to concentrate at things which are located at a distance and are in motion. When looking at something stationary, the eyes get confused and send wrong signals. It also helps to sit in a place which is moving the least. Usually, it is the center point of the body, so the more close the child sits to the center, the better. Like when in an airplane, it is good to sit in seats in the middle aisle and not in those which are located near the wings. If the child is sitting in the center of the boat, instead of the front or the side, the lesser seasick the child will feel. In spite of all these measures if the child is still feeling sick a doctor should be consulted. The doctor checks the inner ears for any defect. He will also check other body parts which are responsible for sensing motion. Apart from medicine, pressure bracelets are also available at the local pharmacy. And along with carrying a sick bag or any other plastic bag, the car can be pulled over and the child should be walked out a bit to feel better. PPPPP Word Count 660

Help those in need with a charity donation

2009-07-10T04:06:00.000-07:00

Many of us consider the opportunity to go to school and lea, or to have clean water and fresh food on your table something very normal, we can't imagine life without these simple things. But in many poor countries these things are considered a luxury. The children that are bo in these countries have a dark future ahead of them, they won't be able to use a computer or to read a book, their only opportunity is to work as hard as they can, but their work will be hard labor.

Children in the poor countries have to work at very young ages. They usually begin working at around six or eight years, and because they don't have experience they start as beggars. Then they polish shoes and sell small things. At 13 years they start working more seriously, and at 15 hard labor begins.

But now, you can make something for these poor children! With the help of a charitable organization you can make a small charity donation or you can even sponsor a child. With only a few money from you can make a difference in someone's life and you can offer him/her a brighter future. By sponsoring a child you will give him the opportunity to lea, which is very important for his future. Charity donations bring books, tutoring services, educational materials and programs to the poor countries of the world.

The charitable organizations that support children use your charity donations to buy books from the local bookstores, and to hire teachers. The most important thing is to lea them how to read, so this is done first. Also, each year some people volunteer to go to the poor countries and help the children there. These people make sure that your charity donations are used for a good purpose.

Sponsoring a child is the best thing you can do to help improve the life of a poor boy or girl. A special connection will be established between you and the child that you sponsor. He will send you letters in which he will thank you and tell you how the money you sent were spent. Probably your picture will stand in a special place in his house. If you want, you can visit the child and his family in person.

So remember that you can easily make a difference in someone's life with some money that to you may seem little, because money have different values in poor countries!

If you want to know more about how to sponsor a child check this links. Your charity donation could save his life!

Eating to Beat Pregnancy Fatigue

2009-07-10T04:02:00.000-07:00

Ask any pregnant woman who is in her first or third trimester how they are feeling and the answer will almost always be "tired". One of the first clues that many women have that they may be expecting a visit from the stork is the fact that they find themselves droopy eyed in the middle of the day for no reason. You may find that doing a simply task as walking around the block leaves your desperate for an afteoon nap. The energy you use to have is now faced with the challenge of growing a baby and your body is hard at work. You are also producing more blood, using more water and nutrients and have a higher heart rate and metabolism when you are pregnant. While the best defensive against the tiredness you will face is to get more sleep. There are also some healthy foods choices you can make that will help you get through your day if you do not have the opportunities to take naps. First, adjust the size of your meals. Anyone who eats a large meal is going to feel tired afterwards regardless of if they are pregnant or not. Being pregnant is going to make the effect of a big meal that much worse. Most of your energy is going to be used towards digesting the meal so of course you will feel sluggish and drained. Eat smaller meals and eat more often. Eating six small meals a day will help you combat fatigue. Eating a good breakfast is the best way to start your day. You are refueling your body after a long foodless night with a good breakfast. A good breakfast is not a cup of coffee and a piece of toast. You want to stick to complex carbs and protein. Whole grain cereal and a banana for example. These foods will stay with you and keep your blood sugar and energy level up for quiet a while. Do not skip lunch. There are many people who skip lunch thinking they will make up for it by having a big dinner. This is bad when you are not pregnant but it's even worse when you are pregnant. You need that midday meal to help refuel your body. As with your breakfast, you should keep it filled with whole grains and protein. Have a whole grain pita and stuff it with chicken salad and add a side of grapes or an apple. Plan to eat most of your calories during the day. A pregnant woman needs an extra 300 calories a day throughout their second and third trimester. The first trimester those are not needed yet. You should eat these extra calories through out the day in the form of healthy snacks such as nuts, cheese, veggies and dip. Do not save your biggest meal until the end of the day. Your body needs these calories to help you get through your day. Steer clear of the quick sugar fixes like candy and soda. In the end these will only make you more tired. Lastly, make sure you are getting enough iron. Eat iron fortified food such as spinach and lean red meat to keep your energy up. There are times when extreme fatigue could be the symptom of an iron deficiency and you might need an iron supplement also. Besides eating well, make sure you get plenty of rest even if this means pushing your bedtime up and giving up those late night TV talk shows. As any parents of newbos will tell you, get your rest while you still can.

Bonding with Baby

2009-07-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Most parents bond instantly with their babies, an intense feeling that makes you want to hold and love and protect them. For some parents, this can take a little longer, especially if there has been a difficult pregnancy or labour.

Research indicates that babies who develop fulfilling relationships with their parents tend to grow into secure, well-adjusted adults and even perform better at school.

Bonding is a natural process but there are many ways to help out, especially if you provide focused, responsive care in a nurturing environment.

Breastfeeding - a breastfed baby will receive regular close contact with its mother, helping an early bond to develop. Unfortunately, this is not always easy, so speak to your health visitor if you need any help or assistance.

Touch - a baby�s first communication is via touch, so hold your baby close, cradle her in your arms or use a sling if you need to get on with chores.

Massage - a more structured method of touching your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as well as the parent/baby bond.

Singing - no matter how tone deaf you may think you are, your baby will love to hear your voice. The rhythmic nature of nursery rhymes is very soothing and is believed to help with language development.

Talk - although she may not understand what you are saying, your baby will love to hear you chatting away about what you are doing, whether it is changing her nappy, peeling the potatoes or folding the washing. She will gain confidence from the fact that you are always near and always focused upon her, even if the household chores need to be done.

Pull a face - even very young babies are fascinated by facial expressions.

Regular activities - such as nappy changing time, are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you love them. Talk to her, kiss her tummy, tell how what lovely dimples she has, how much you love her smile. This will take your mind off what a messy job it is and show that you love her, no matter what.

Slow down - life is getting faster and faster but slow and steady is best for baby. Stop and spend time with your baby, relax and enjoy yourself, your baby will love you no matter what.

Arabella Greatorex is the owner of http://www.naturalnursery.co.uk, an online store selling organic and fairly traded products for families including organic clothing and nappies, fairly traded toys and natural toiletries.

Shopping For Mobile Baby Monitors

2009-07-09T20:21:00.000-07:00

When you're a parent, you need to make use of every probable idea you can come up with in order to provide excellent care to your baby. Luckily, the mode world has brought in numerous parent-friendly products that offer help and support to first-time – or even experienced – parents. Mobile baby monitors are examples of such useful devices that make parenthood more manageable than you would expect, especially if you're a single mom or dad. What is a Mobile Baby Monitor? In essence, a mobile baby monitor is a radio transmitter coupled with a receiver. The set is synchronized to a predetermined frequency band that gives off a frequency modulation (FM) signal once it is switched on. More often than not, these portable monitors send out signals between the range of 49,830 MHz and 49,890 MHz. Why do you need to buy one? Mobile baby monitors make it possible for parents to keep tabs on their infants without the necessity of staying awake or standing outside the nursery door all night. A typical baby monitor set consists of two parts: a radio transmitter and a portable receiver. The radio transmitter must be positioned 8 to 10 feet away from your baby's crib. Then again, you can always position it closer to the baby for better reception of sounds. The signal picked up by the radio transmitter is then passed on to the portable receiver, which can be carried effortlessly around the house. For as long as the receiver is within the range of distance supported by the device, you will be able to hear the sounds coming from your baby's room even if you are in another part of your house. To recharge the radio transmitter, simply plug it into the socket as it usually sits still at the side of your baby. Batteries, on the other hand, operate the portable receiver. Although this can be an addition cost, the price you pay in order to take pleasure in its portability is certainly worth it. What are the disadvantages of Baby Monitors? First and foremost, baby monitors work more efficiently between ground floor and first floor areas. However, if your home is made of thick concrete walls or has aluminum siding, then this can terribly decrease the strength of the transmitted signal. Parents who own baby monitors have also reported instances of interference. From time to time, their receivers are able to pick up signals from their neighbors' wireless devices – baby monitors included. Because of these occurrences, a lot of people have made it a point not to mention any private or confidential information while the baby monitor is switched on. Interference with cordless phones and wireless routers is also a common problem. Every now and then, your baby monitor may compete with these wireless devices for better signal reception. For that reason, it is better to purchase one that features a channel adjustment capability. This way, you can change frequency bands every time you encounter interference problems. Of course, you also need to factor in the cost of buying a baby monitor. The high-end versions can cost as much as $300 dollars or more. These mobile baby monitors normally feature a video monitoring option that allows parents to keep a closer eye on their babies. Then again, if you prefer the cheaper variety to the pricey ones, be prepared to shell out around $40 to $90 for the radio models.

Choosing the Perfect Baby Name

2009-07-09T03:59:00.000-07:00

Choosing a baby name can be one of the most fun and challenging aspects of having a new baby. Your baby's name will be an introduction to the type of person he or she is � for example, is your baby girl a �Lilly�, or is she a �Rose�? In your baby boy a �George� or a �William�? Should your baby�s name mean �strength� or �desire�, or is the name�s meaning not important?

Parents, grandparents, friends, siblings, and family will be sharing their advice and ideas in helping you find a name for your child. Chances are you will spend hours trying to pin down that perfect baby name and you�ll change your mind more than once along the way. But eventually, you will find a few names that you like best.

Once you find a few different names, you can ask friends and family which name they like best. You can also compare your list to the top 100 baby names by decade or the most popular names of a specific year � maybe you want a popular baby name or maybe you prefer a unique name. Eventually, you will find the perfect baby name, and it will instill you with a sense of pride and achievement, both for you and eventually for your child.

Selecting a popular name for your baby

Today�s favorite names may or may not be around tomorrow. While some names have proven the test of time, others have come and gone like leg warmers. There is an easy way to determine if a name has staying power, simply review the top 100 names by year using this site. We list the top 100 baby names for the past 125 years, by year. While choosing a very popular name today can be fun, it may mean your son or daughter will be one of many in their classes growing up. This isn�t necessarily bad, but something to consider when selecting that perfect baby name.

Selecting a baby name with the perfect meaning

A great method in finding a perfect baby name is to understand the name meaning. You can find the perfect baby name meaning using one of two methods: 1) you can look up the meanings of your favorite names, and/or 2) you can take the BabyNamesUSA test. The tests helps you find the perfect baby name by choosing words that you believe are important or are words you want your future baby to possess � like loving, or gentle, or intelligent.

The test will allow you to choose meanings that are significant and/or important to you � whether it�s a characteristic you find admirable, or one in which you want your future baby to possess to become successful in life.

Searching for a baby name using the origin/ethnicity/religion of the name

One of the most common methods for selecting a baby name is using the origin and/or ethnicity of the baby name. This will give the baby an immediate source of identity and an understanding of the culture and origin of the baby�s family heritage. In some religions, like Judaism, it is common to name a baby after a deceased family member, to honor loved ones who�ve passed. In many cases these names were from a different generation (see top 100 baby names by year, above) and may be �out of style�. If this is the case, middle names are the perfect solution.

Choose a baby name for each sex � so whatever the baby is, you are ready.

Once you get the wonderful news that a new baby is coming, it will be a while until you can determine the baby�s sex � IF you are considering finding out at all (food for thought � there is no better surprise, and nothing more worth waiting for). Having a boy�s name and girl�s name is a great start.

Naming the baby after the parent � either a single name, or the entire name

In order for your baby boy to become a Jr. (junior), or the �II� (the second), the entire name should be the same as the father�s. The father is the Sr. (senior), the son becomes the Jr. For example, John William Smith names his son John William Smith, the father is the Sr. /I, the son is the Jr. /II. If the son is the third generation to receive the name, the baby boy typically becomes the III (third). Be sure you want to name your baby boy, or baby girl, the same as a parent � it can lead to confusion growing up. If you know you want to name the baby after a parent, selecting a unique middle name may be the perfect solution.

Your child will have to live with this name for a lifetime.

The name you choose for your baby (and future child/adult) should be wo happily. Will family, friends and one day, employers �take notice� for the wrong reasons? Remember, kids can be cruel � don�t make life more challenging than it needs to be.

Choose a baby name that you are proud of, and makes you smile.

Naming your baby after family and friends that have a special place in your heart is a great place to start. Are their special attributes you want your baby to carry � choosing a name that means something special is also a great idea.

Make sure the full name (first, middle and last) sounds good together.

Say the baby�s name aloud � is it easy or difficult to say the name? Choose a name that flows well together. Stay away from Jim Shoe (gym shoe) or names that when pieced together can have an alteate meaning.

Write the full baby name down � as well as the initials of all names.

If your baby name�s initials make up another word � be sure you are comfortable with what results. For example James Earl Thompson (JET) may be acceptable, but think twice about names like Daniel Irving Petty (DIP).

Spell it!! When writing the name down, was it difficult to spell and/or say? If you had problems, you may want to reconsider the name.

Nicknames are inevitable.

When your child goes to school, joins a sports team or club, chances are a nickname may be close behind. Some nicknames can be endearing, but others may not be what you had in mind when naming your baby. Many times, Alan Jackson results in AJ � be sure this is acceptable, as many times, it is ultimately out of the parents control.

Naming your baby after a sports figure, movie star, or political hero

Be sure you want to go this route, prior to naming your baby. While the name may be beautiful � it could become overly popular. Or, if the person falls out of favor, it may result in giving the name a negative stigma.

Naming multiple babies

If your family is going to increase by more than one baby, there a few things to consider. First, naming babies with the same first initial may be confusing � for you, the babies and future teachers. You may want to consider choosing different initials � giving each child a unique name. Second, choosing different initials may make things easier when accepting gifts containing your babies� initials. If each baby�s name contains the same letters � it will be difficult in determining which gifts belong to which baby. This will only get more challenging.

Religious & Traditional considerations

Some families have a tradition in passing down names from generation to generation. Make sure you check with both parents� families first. Also, some religions don�t allow babies to be named after living family members. Be sure to check your religious beliefs as well.

Select multiple names for your baby.

Chances are, you and your partner, your family, and others will all have a different name in mind. While the decision ultimately comes down to the parent(s), keep your mind open to suggestions. Not only will this help in selecting the best name for your baby, but it will make your life easier along the way.

What if there is a pet with the same name we wanted to name our baby.

Unless the name is Fido or Spot � we wouldn�t worry much about it. We had a dog name Jordan (after Michael Jordan), and I�ve met many other people named Jordan. It is inevitable that someone somewhere named a dog, cat, fish or rabbit the same name you are considering for your baby. If you love the name � don�t look back.

I have a friend/family member who is considering the name I wanted for my baby.

There are a few things you can do. If the person is going to move forward with the name, you may need to choose a new one (or try talking with them). Or you can find the meaning of the name, and see if a different name with the same meaning is appealing to you.

For you parents that have yet to choose a name for your baby � you should lea from this lesson. You may want to keep you favorite names secret � or only share with people that 1) aren�t going to have kids anytime soon or 2) you can definitely trust. Well-liked and/or unique names can become very popular, very quickly.

I love the name � but others do not.

Two points on this.

1. If the opinions of these people mean something to you, it is up to you and your partner whether or not you let other people�s opinions change your mind. If their points are valid � it may be worth listening to the person. See �Selecting a Name�

2. You will always be able to find someone that isn�t crazy about the name you�ve chosen for your baby. If you are happy with your choice � then tune the person out. If that doesn�t work, tell them thanks for sharing their opinion with you, and name your baby what you wanted to anyway.

I like one baby name � my partner likes a different name.

There are several things you can do to compromise.

1. One of you pick the first name, the other can select the middle name � or a nick-name for the baby.

2. Each of you can select a few names you each like, and see if one of those baby names makes you both happy.

3. If you are planning on having multiple children, you can take tus selecting the baby�s name. You can pick the name for the first child, and your partner can pick the name of the next baby. Be aware � if you decide to do it this way, one of you may not be happy when it comes to the next baby�s name.

4. Dart board � Put the different baby names on a dart board (or something similar), and throw away! If that doesn�t work, try the �flip-a-coin� method.

My partner wants to name the baby after a family member � but I really don�t care for the name (or the family member).

Honesty is typically the best policy in most cases. If you are not thrilled with the name your partner has chosen for the baby, see article �I like one baby name � my partner likes a different name�. There are ideas here that will help.

One suggestion: It would probably be best if you didn�t tell your partner that �You don�t like the name they have chosen�. It will be easier if you just say, let�s consider that name, and come up with some alteatives as well. Or, if your partner is insistent on that particular name, you may want to use it as the baby�s middle name.

Scott Zak is a publisher of http://www.babynamesusa.com and http://thetop100babynames.com

Wireless Baby Monitors Night Day

2009-07-09T03:56:00.000-07:00

Your baby is the most precious thing in your life. If it is only possible to watch over him or her day in day out then you would. Unfortunately you are not robots that do need sleep, eat and rest. You are only humans bound by physiologic limitations. So to aid you with your wanting to watch your baby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you may want to consider using wireless baby monitors night and day. What are Baby Monitors? Baby monitors are devices, either audio or video, that can help you check up on your baby even if you are not physically present with him or her. This is most helpful to parents who need to be constantly on the go but still want to watch over their baby while doing other productive activities. When are Baby Monitors Useful? Most people think that baby monitors are only useful at night during the sleeping periods of both the child and the parents. This, however, is not the case. You can actually use baby monitors even during the day when you have other things to do around the house like cooking or other household preparations. Wireless VS Wired Baby Monitors Video and audio baby monitors can either be wired or wireless. Both modes have their own advantages and disadvantages. But as of today, parents usually prefer the wireless devices over wired ones for reasons of mobility. With wireless devices, parents can go anywhere around the house while still being able to keep tabs over their babies. The only setbacks of wireless baby monitors are that it can be more expensive to wired devices and they are also prone to interference. Wireless Baby Monitors: Solving Interference Problems Issues of interference with wireless devices have been the long time conce of parents who use wireless baby monitors. Instead of the device being able to help parents, interference tus them into annoyances. So for those who are experiencing this kind of problem, here are a few tips on how to minimize interference with your wireless baby monitor. 1) Signals coming from wireless devices usually clash with other signals from other wireless devices running on the same frequency. When this clashing occurs, wireless interference occurs. So to avoid interference, change the frequency of your baby monitor every once in a while and make sure that the frequency you use does not clash with frequencies of other devices. To change frequencies, wireless baby monitors are equipped with a switch that lets parents change frequency easily. 2) Another way to help in solving wireless interference is to find a proper location for the transmitter as well as for the receiver (baby unit and the parents' unit). So where should you place your wireless baby monitor to minimize wireless interference? You need to place it as far away as possible from other devices especially wireless ones. This includes router and wireless/ cordless phones. The baby's and parents' units should also be placed as far away from the microwave oven since it can also cause great interference. 3) If you have money to splurge on these kinds of devices, you can go for digital baby monitors instead of the analog ones. Digital technology has incorporated fixes to help solve the issue of interference. These are some of the best solutions that parents can take to minimize wireless interference. They may not be able to eliminate interference totally but they can help in minimizing their occurrence.

Choosing The Right Potty

2009-07-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

You want to start potty training with your child, they are approaching the right age, so you go to the store and pick up a potty... easy right?... Well no! not so easy... maybe 10 or 20 years ago but now the choice of potties can be overwhelming. To help you with your choice and to discover the best model for your child we present you with brief resume of some of the different models available.

Basic Potty:
This is the basic traditional design, normally a one piece coloured plastic potty that sits on the floor. They are cleaned by tipping the contents down the toilet and can be easily rinsed out. These are the cheapest option and as such some people have several in different rooms of the house in case of emergency.

Basic Potty Chair

The basic potty chairs are usual made of one piece of plastic and are designed to sit on the floor. It can be cleaned easily by dumping the contents into the toilet and rinsing the bottom which is convenient. Basic potty chairs are relatively cheap as well so it's easier to keep one in several rooms of the house. It�s not fancy but it does its job.

Theme Potties

These are basically designed to help motivate the child to use the potty. They can be quite large and expensive. They include amongst others;
- Royal Thrones, a high backed seat with armrests and four legs and a potty bowl sunken into the seat of the chair.
- Full miniature copies of a regular toilet complete with seat, lid realistic flushing sounds.
- Musical potties that play a tune when something is deposited in the bowl.
- Potties shapes as trains, cars, animals and all manner of things including television and film characters.

Toilet Seat Hole Reducers

This does exactly what the name sounds. It is a mini toilet seat that sits inside the existing one effectively making the existing �hole� smaller. These are very useful for the child as it can bypass the whole �potty� stage letting the child sit on the proper toilet comfortably without fear of falling in. It also gets the child used to using the toilet and makes them feel more grown up as they are using the toilet just like the rest of the family. If the toilet seat reducer is used then it is very important to use a non slip step or box for the child to the actually get up onto the toilet on their own and also to rest their feet on once sitting down. This has the added advantage of not requiring special additional cleaning.

Hybrid Potties.

There are models which include all of the above models in one. A base with a potty bowl inserted that will probably play music that has a seat and a lid too. As the child progresses the seat can be removed and used on the toilet and the base uptued and used as a step.

This is an outline of just a few of the different models available today. You should choose the potty which will best suit the needs of your child. If you are having trouble deciding then you might want to take your child to the store with you to show you which one they like the most. This will also help in your efforts to get them to use it.

At htpp://pottyaid.com there is lots more information and other articles similar to this one. There is also the 5 day email course you can sign up for free of charge - Potty Training made easy.

Sinus and Sinus Attack in Children

2009-07-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

Sinus might seem like common cold at first. The child coughs, sneezes and gets a red nose, like in cold. But the difference is that sinus attack last longer than common cold. Sinuses are spaces in the bones of the face and the head which are filled with air. They are exactly located on both sides of the nose, behind the nasal cavity, within the forehead, and at the back & in between the eyes. Sinuses grow in pairs and there are four pairs of them. Sinuses begin to develop in the mother womb and grow till twenty years of age. As children have an incompletely developed immune system, they catch cold infection more frequently. The actual purposes of the sinuses are not known, but scientists say that they make the head lightweight as these air pockets are filled with light air. If these air pockets were to be replaced with something solid, the head will become heavier. The sinuses also provide tone and depth to the voice. That is the reason why the voice sounds funny when a person catches a cold or gets a sinus attack. The sinuses are covered with a thin and moist tissue layer known as a mucous membrane. These membranes are responsible for adding moisture to the air breathed in. They also produce mucus, a sticky liquid filled in the nose, also called snot. This sticky liquid catches germs and dust, which are carried by the air, before they enter the body. The mucus membranes are covered with cilia or microscopic hair. These cilia move to and fro to encourage the flow of the mucus out of the nose and back inside. When the sinuses are infected, the membranes produce more mucus and become swollen and irritated. When a person catches cold, the virus harms the cilia and the mucus doesn't get swept back in. This is how a runny nose is developed. The mucus lining swells within the nose. This narrows or completely blocks the minute opening of the sinus into nose. Because of this, the stickier and thicker mucus produced get trapped in the sinuses. This stagnant mucus becomes the breeding ground for virus, bacteria and fungi. If the common cold stretches for over two weeks, the sinusitis condition develops. This condition is sinus infection. Acute sinusitis is sinusitis stretching over two weeks or so. But when it crosses three months, it is called chronic sinusitis. The child can get mild fever along with acute sinusitis. There is no fever associated with chronic sinusitis and the symptoms are less intense. The symptoms of sinusitis or sinus attacks are mild fever, bad breath, continuous nasal discharge, puffy eyes, and daytime cough. Some children also experience low energy, crankiness, headache and pain behind the forehead, cheeks and eyes. When the doctor is approached for help, he/she will check throat, nose and ears for infection. The sinuses are also checked. The doctor will press or tap on the cheeks and forehead. If bacteria are responsible for causing the infection, the child will be given antibiotics to kill the bacteria. The antibiotics will show their effect within few days itself. A nasal spray or decongestant can also be used to treat blocked and runny nose. If it is chronic sinusitis, the antibiotics need to be taken for a longer time period, like for about a few weeks, in order to kill the bacteria completely. The child shouldn't stop the course of medicine if he/she isn't seeing any improvement in the condition. The doctor should be contacted for further instructions. In this case, a surgery is an alteative. The doctor will ask the child to get a CT scan of the sinuses. The best thing about sinusitis is that it isn't contagious. So if a kid is infected with it, he/she can still go to school and have fun with the rest of the kids. But kids who have sinus problem should stay away from environmental pollutants and allergies, which can trigger the condition again in them. PPPPP Word County 676

How to Decorate for a Baby Shower

2009-07-07T21:01:00.001-07:00

As the host of a baby shower, the decorations will likely be one of your biggest tasks!

Just because you�re the host, it doesn�t mean you need to spend hundred of dollars to have a fabulously decorated location for your loved one�s baby shower.

Think in themes! Using a theme can make decorating SO much easier than if you just have a vague idea of boy or girl for decorations. Here are some simple ways you can save money on decorations.

Using the baby�s nursery theme, you can incorporate your gifts for the new mom into the decorations. If the baby is going to have a Noah�s Ark, farm, or jungle themed room, you can get some stuffed animals to decorate with! Use them as centerpieces and to decorate side tables, as needed.

For a star themed room, you can cut out large stars, spray paint them silver and gold and hang them from the ceiling. Use star confetti on the tables and try to find some wire garland, too. I�ve seen these types of garland all year round. Stars are also easy to find on candles, tablecloths, napkins, etc.

Many people love to give diaper cakes as baby shower gifts. They not only serve as gifts, but make great centerpieces!

For the baby showers I have hosted, I always like to have a menu on display so the guests know what they are eating! It probably comes from being a picky eater, but I have always gotten wonderful comments on this. It is VERY simple to do, too! Just get a nice picture frame (you can even get one engraved for a baby gift!) and on your computer, type up the list of foods you will be serving. Use a font that coordinates with the theme, center it on the page and print it out! I like to order the item the same way nice restaurants do with appetizers first, salads and breads next, main courses after that, followed by desserts and beverages.

It really is a very nice touch that doesn�t take much work at all, but you will get lots of compliments on it! I don�t even mind if you take all the credit yourself!

If you want to have something outside the baby shower location to announce it, you can get a banner or yard sign that can also be given to the mother as a gift. Always be thinking of dual purpose baby shower decorations that can be given as gifts! This is a great way to save money!
Flowers are wonderful additions to any baby shower d�cor. If you live near a supermarket that has a floral department, you can save lots of money by just picking up some bundles and doing your own floral arrangements. Most stores have a floral artist that works there, so ask for a few tips. Don�t be afraid to try this! No one will likely know that you didn�t get an arrangement custom made for the baby shower if you don�t tell them.

When you�re there, ask if they have any discarded petals you can have. Most florists take a few petals off roses before arranging them and will give them to you for FREE if you ask. Just call around to local shops and see. You�ll never know unless you ask!

If you just don�t think you can handle doing your own floral arrangements or you won�t have the time, ordering online can also be a huge money saver. You can often get dozens of roses for so much less online than locally because online florists can buy in bulk and pass the savings on to you.

Have fun decorating for your next baby shower! Remember to use decorations that also can be used as gifts to save money!

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Susan Whitehead is the proud mom to 4 children! She has hosted many baby showers and enjoys the fun of planning these special events. Her baby shower idea site is filled with fun tips to make baby showers a breeze! Visit www.BabyShowerIdeaCenter.com/showerdecor.html to get some tips!

Child Online Protection Act

2009-07-07T20:56:00.000-07:00

It is said that a child has an innocent mind and they lea from whatever environment they are exposed to. Hence, it is important to show those things that will be beneficial to them. If an inspiring movie is showed, it will definitely motivate them. It is said that children should be prohibited from watching any adult content. A law called child protection act was initiated in this regard. Parents generally do not allow their children to watch any adult content. Today a variety of sources have become available to children that show obscene content. There are many websites that showcase content which can be very harmful to children. Child online protection act was passed in United States in 1998. The law is made in order to protect minors from any kind of harmful sexual material that is available on the inteet. A minor in United States is a person who is less than 18 years old. Child online protection act has not come into effect as the law has been ruled out by federal courts. Many federal courts feel that the law violates the constitutional right of freedom of speech. That is why this law has not been yet implemented. The Supreme court also declared this act as unconstitutional. Although this law has not been passed, similar laws have come into effect in United States. The inteet contains a lot of unwanted material. There are various online sites that provide harmful sexual material. This harmful material if seen by children can have a negative effect on them. In order to make this material inaccessible to children, child protection act was passed. Inteet poography is distributed via websites and Usenet groups. The makers of child online protection act wanted to restrict the access of inteet poography. The makers wanted inteet poography to be inaccessible to children who are less than 18 years. Child online protection act limits commercial and affects providers that are based within United States. Makers of child online protection act wanted all commercial distributors that provided harmful sexual material to restrict their websites from access to children. Sexual material that explicitly demonstrated sexual acts or showed nudity was considered extremely harmful for minors. According to this law obscenity was also considered harmful to children who are less than 18 years old. Although makers of child online protect act gave reasons for enforcing this law, the Supreme court found these reasons insufficient and hence the law could not be enforced. Some believe that child online protection act should be implemented as we harm the children by showing any obscene content. The lawmakers of child protection act believed that restriction of access to websites that displayed harmful sexual material is beneficial for minors. They believed that some minors may commit crimes after watching this content. Minors are citizens of tomorrow. In order to make better citizens of tomorrow, they believed that this law should have been implemented. As inteet is growing rapidly it is essential to protect the kids from any harmful content. Hence, it is important to enforce this child online protection act vehemently in every household.

Head Banging in Toddlers Why

2009-07-05T23:31:00.000-07:00

Our 16 month old toddler has been exhibiting some pretty weird behavior that our other son never experienced...head banging. So I did some research and came up with some answers. I found out that head banging is common in toddlers and each child does it for various reasons. This really surprised me and made me less worried at the same time. Toddlers bang their head for various reasons some of which are discussed below:

Attention! Toddlers want attention! Toddlers start head banging to get attention from their parents.

Comfort! Your toddler may be comforting his or herself by banging their head. This calms them to help them go to sleep.

Frustration/Stress! Your child may be frustrated or stressed! This frustration can come from family stressors or just a regular temper tantrum.

Above all, head banging in toddlers is fairly common and rarely does it signify a more severe mental problem. Some parents think of Autism and other childhood mental disorders when it comes to toddler head banging but these are very rare with head banging alone. Other behaviors and symptoms would need to be present before that would be a cause for conce. If you feel your toddler's head banging is out of control, your toddler doesnt talk at all, or you just feel like something is wrong then you need to contact your child's pediatrician. If you are ever in doubt, call the doctor.

We have come to the conclusion that our toddler's head banging has a lot to do with temper tantrums when things don't go his way. During these periods of rare head banging, we do what we can to keep him safe. You should do the same with your child. Remember, in most cases, head banging is a stage and it shall pass.

Amanda Compton is a work at home mom to 2 little boys. She owns and publishes a fun site for Babies and Moms, http://www.ContestForMoms.com featuring a free baby photo contest, mom forums, and lots of baby & mom information. Check out her Baby & Toddler Parenting & News site too, http://www.OurSmartBaby.com

Baby Monitors And Wireless Phones: Tips To Fix Interference

2009-07-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Household gadgets that function wirelessly have a tendency to pose a number of interference problems. The usual culprits behind such tight spots are none other than baby monitors and wireless phones. Needless to say, deciding to get rid of one device in favor of the other is certainly out of the question. What is Wireless Interference? Interference may appear in the form of buzzing, static or irksome sounds. Aside from that, baby monitors that come with a video monitoring feature may also suffer from a fuzzy reception. Another annoying part of the whole interference dilemma is the fact that you could sometimes pick up your neighbor's phone conversations on your baby monitor – and vice versa. This makes it even more difficult for you to hear or decode the sounds that are coming from your baby's room. How to fix Wireless Interference? As bothersome as these interference problems may be, they are by no means without a solution. Here are some tips on how to avoid or, at least, minimize the nuisance of interfering wireless signals in your home. 1. Factor in your wireless phone. In order to reduce the likelihood of interference, pick a baby monitor that works on a different frequency band from your other wireless household devices. These days, most cordless phones operate on the 2.4GHz frequency band. Therefore, if you use the same channel for your baby monitor, you'll definitely encounter problems with the signal. 2. Adjust the channel. The majority of mode wireless devices allow the changing of channels in an attempt to fix interference issues. It may be as easy as sliding a switch or pushing a button. Then again, if you're using a wireless router, you'll have to use your computer in order to resolve the problem. Remember to steer clear of the router's lowermost or uppermost frequency bands if you're using an analog phone that's set in 2.4GHz. 3. Opt for a wireless phone that utilizes the 900MHz, 1.9GHz or 5.8GHz band. Since these channels are not as commonly utilized as the 2.4GHz frequency band, they're less prone to interference. If you have a preference for multiple-handset-capable wireless phones with a handset-conferencing option, pick one that makes use of only the 1.9GHz or 5.8GHz channel. 4. Switch on the baby monitor first. To get the best possible reception and transmission from a 2.4GHz baby monitor with video capability, switch off all 2.4GHz devices in your house. After that, you may tu on the baby monitor followed by your wireless router – that is if you have one. Last but not least, you may switch on the base unit of your wireless phone. As a result of sticking to this course of action, the monitor gets to capture the initial accessible signal that will give out the most excellent reception and not impinge on your other wireless gadgets in the process. 5. Consider purchasing a digital baby monitor. If you want to ensure that your next-door neighbors won't be able to pick up the transmitted sounds from your baby monitor, purchase a digital version instead of an analog one. By doing so, you'll be assured that the only sounds you will perceive are the ones that are coming from your little one's room. 6. Stay at a safe distance. If frequency band adjustments still don't work and replacement of the product is not an urgent alteative, try to keep the differing wireless appliances as distant from each other as possible. Baby monitors and wireless phones can certainly interfere with each other's functioning. Even so, you can always do something to fix and/or curtail its inconvenient effects.

Beyond Flash Card How To Do The Infant Visual Stimulation In Fun And Creative Ways

2009-07-05T00:47:00.000-07:00

Babies lea about the environment surrounding them through five senses: vision, hearing, touching, smelling and tasting. Of those five senses, vision is the least developed sense a baby has at birth.

Therefore, it is important for parents to help their babies to �perfect� their vision during the first few months of their baby�s life.

Babies who do not receive adequate visual stimulation may never get good vision. Or they may develop it slowly. In contrast, babies who are stimulated develop good vision faster. Having a good vision early is important since this will put the baby in a competitive edge. Why ? Because vision provides the baseline of other area of development. It enhances curiosity, attentiveness, concentration and most importantly, cements bonding between parents and the baby.

So, what can a parent do to help perfect their baby�s vision? Parents can accelerate and optimize the development of their babies� vision by providing a variety of visual input. When a baby receives visual stimulation, the vision-related nerve cells , which initially are not well connected, start to form a lot of connection with other nerve cells. This will finally make the baby�s eyes to thrive, enabling the baby to see better.

Newbo baby.

First, let�s see what the research says. Research has found that newbo�s eyes register contrasting color such as white, black and red the best. So the best way to stimulate your baby�s eyes is by exposing your baby to as much dark and light as possible.

Try these following activities:

Show your baby light and dark contrasting toys including the ones attached to the baby mobiles, wrist rattles and other educational baby toys.
Show books with pictures which have contrasting colors.
And if you don't mind to go a bit overboard, surround your baby with objects which have contrasting colors. These may include: bedding, play area and even yourself. Yes, you can actually wear shirts with stripes when tending your baby.

But wait, research has also shown that newbo can only focus their eyes on objects between 8-12 inches away from them. Therefore, try to stay within that boundary when you interact with your baby.

Beyond newbo.

Around 2 months, your baby will be able to move from highly contrasting colors to bright bold colors. Your baby will also enjoy faces and is ready to see a moving object in addition to the stationary one.

Here are some activities to try:

Activity with the play gym or baby mobiles: place your baby on her back and put the play gym or baby mobile on her. Move the toys like a pendulum.
Activity with rattle or other objects: move the baby rattle from left to right, or up and down.
Mirror: show your baby her face. Enhance this activity by pointing her facial features and talk about them.

When your baby�s around 5 months, train your baby�s eyes to focus even more.

These following exercises will assist your baby to develop concentration and enhance the curiousity .

Play the peekaboo with your baby.
Play with a yo yo and encourage your baby to see the yo yo movement.
Dribble or throw a ball. Encourage your baby to follow the ball's movement. .
Follow-a-spool activity: roll a spool of thread towards your baby and then move it to the opposite direction (i.e. farther from her). Let your baby's eyes follow the movement.
Put a little ball or marble inside a big bowl. Tilt the bowl and move it around, so that the ball moves around the bowl. Show this to your baby and let your baby's eyes follow the movement.
Play a simple hide and seek game with your baby.

If your baby has been properly visually stimulated, by 8 months, your baby should have completed her visual development and has a good vision.

Dian Dewi is a mom and webmaster of Best Child Toys , a website which provides guidance on how to choose toys which are fun, safe and educational. This website also contains tips on how to use toys to maximize child's development. The baby section of this website provides information on choosing educational baby toys and how to use them effectively.

Consistency is Key to Successful Discipline

2009-07-05T00:44:00.000-07:00

Consistency is key to successfully teaching your child right from wrong when disciplining them. It keeps small misdeeds and bad behaviors from later becoming bigger misdeeds and worse behaviors. You have to stand firm and mean it when you say, "Tu off the television now"or "no dessert after dinner because you didn't touch your dinner." Consistency teaches your child there are defined consequences for misdeeds and inappropriate or unacceptable actions or behaviors. Inconsistency when disciplining makes you directly responsible for your children's misbehavior and doesn't teach them how to be responsible for their actions. It's also that each partner is consistent with the discipline. If one parent is too strict and the other is too lenient, the child will key into that and try to manipulate the situation to his or her advantage. Parents must agree on disciplinary action in advance and make a commitment to one another to be consistent in implementing and following through with the consequences. This can be especially difficult if the child's parents are separated or divorced. Though you may not be together anymore, it's imperative that you parent on common ground. Openly and honestly discuss these parameters with your former spouse and your child in advance, so that if discipline is needed, the consequences of such misbehavior are well understood in advance. Any disagreements between parents should be discussed out of the child's earshot. Consistency is about being strong and standing firm, even when doing so is extremely difficult or exhausting. It can sometimes be hard to come home after a hard day at work only to find a hard night of parenting in front of you. Your child will consistently test the boundaries and 'push the envelope' with you to see if there's any play in those consequences. By standing firm you are showing there is not and that you expect them to do nothing less than take responsibility for their actions.

How to Select the Right Educational Toys

2009-07-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Is it Safe?
Without a doubt the most important factor when choosing any educational toy for your baby is safety. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has published a number of articles regarding safety standards & safety information, as well as keeping a ban list and recalled items list. This is recommended as your first point of call when researching any products for your baby.

Beware of second-hand and hand-me-down toys as they may be broken, missing pieces, or missing important safety information. Be sure to give them a thorough inspection before allowing your child to play with them.

Remember: You are the last line of defense when it comes to your child's safety, always ensure they are supervised especially when playing near water, even very shallow amounts.

Choosing Age-Appropriate Toys
The best guide for buying toys for children is to see what they enjoy playing with, and be sure to keep an eye on the manufacturers recommended age.

0 � 6 Months
Simple toys to help your baby practice his grasp and lea that his hands are useful tools, high contrast colours (black, white, red) to help him focus and keep his attention:

Small rattles with handles.
Rubber rings.
Soft balls or dolls.
Bath toys.
I-Qube.

6 � 12 Months
Toys that encourage her to push, pull, press and move working parts, noise making toys, hard and soft toys of different textures:

Activity gyms.
Music boxes.
Stacking Cups.
Activity toys.
Balls.
Toy cars.

12-18 Months
Toys that can be pushed, pulled, ridden, stacked, filled and dumped.

Shopping carts.
Riding toys.
Bucket & spade.
Basket of objects to be carried and dumped.
Drums.
Butchers paper & large crayons.

18 - 24 Months
Inside and outside toys with plenty of room to crawl, walk, run, and jump:

Large blocks and blankets to build forts.
Picture books.
Dolls.
Board Books.
Butchers paper & large crayons.

24 - 36 Months
Outside toys allowing plenty of room to safely run, jump, and climb:

Jungle Gyms
Dress-up clothes.
Boxes.
Books.
Paddle pools.
Butchers paper & large crayons.

Kyle Tully is the Founder & Director of Small Packages, an Australian website focused on helping parents enrich their children.

http://www.smallpackages.com.au

MOTHERS' ROLE IN COMBATING DISEASES OF CHILDREN.

2009-07-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

The especial province of the mother is the prevention of disease, not its cure. When disease attacks the child, the mother has then a part to perform, which it is especially important during the epochs of infancy and childhood should be done well. I refer to those duties which constitute the mateal part of the management of disease. Medical treatment, for its successful issue, is greatly dependent upon a careful, pains-taking, and judicious mateal superintendence. No medical treatment can avail at any time, if directions be only partially carried out, or be negligently attended to; and will most assuredly fail altogether, if counteracted by the erroneous prejudices of ignorant attendants. But to the affections of infancy and childhood, this remark applies with great force; since, at this period, disease is generally so sudden in its assaults, and rapid in its progress, that unless the measures prescribed are rigidly and promptly administered, their exhibition is soon rendered altogether fruitless. The amount of suffering, too, may be greatly lessened by the thoughtful and disceing attentions of the mother. The wants and necessities of the young child must be anticipated; the fretfulness produced by disease, soothed by kind and affectionate persuasion; and the possibility of the sick and sensitive child being exposed to harsh and ungentle conduct, carefully provided against. Again, not only is a firm and strict compliance with medical directions in the administration of remedies, of regimen, and general measures, necessary, but an unbiased, faithful, and full report of symptoms to the physician, when he visits his little patient, is of the first importance. An ignorant servant or nurse, unless great caution be exercised by the medical attendant, may, by an unintentional but erroneous report of symptoms, produce a very wrong impression upon his mind, as to the actual state of the disease. His judgment may, as a consequence, be biased in a wrong direction, and the result prove seriously injurious to the welldoing of the patient. The medical man cannot sit hour after hour watching symptoms; hence the great importance of their being faithfully reported. This can alone be done by the mother, or some person equally competent. There are other weighty considerations which might be adduced here, proving how much depends upon efficient mateal management in the time of sickness; but they will be severally dwelt upon, when the diseases with which they are more particularly connected are spoken of.

Genital Hygiene for the Smallest Ones

2009-07-04T01:13:00.000-07:00

AS A RULE, young mother have lots of questions. A baby is so small, he requires constant care and attention, and you�re afraid of hurting him. Genital hygiene causes especially many troubles. As for girls, here we can make for ourselves. But we understand nothing about boys. Let�s lea this science by ourselves.

Genital hygiene should be treated very carefully since the very birth. Otherwise, strangury, different inflammations or problems in youth age can occur. In fact, there�s nothing difficult here, you just need to lea several simple rules.

Boys

During first week, boys can suffer from scrotum edema. Genitals look too big and swelled up. You should not be worried. This is connected with the fact that through placenta or breast milk an excessive quantity of mateal hormones penetrates into a new-bo baby�s organism. As a rule, this edema disappears in several days. But if such edema still presents by the end of the second week, apply for a doctor immediately.

Intimate hygiene for boys means regular (while each change of a diaper) washing of genitals with warm water. Doing this, you should move a skin wrinkle (foreskin) off a head of a penis necessarily. Fatty substance (smegma) is accumulated there, which should be removed. If you see reddening on foreskin, then you need to cleanse it with a cotton tampon, moistened in a light (light-pink) manganese solution or bur-marigold extract several times a day.

Sometimes, foreskin can be very narrow and does not allow baring a head of penis completely. In such case, it�s desirable to apply for a doctor as soon as possible. As a rule, a surgeon just needs to make a small cut of a skin wrinkle. And the earlier he does such operation, the better.

If a baby has very sensitive skin, then you may sometimes do just �dry� washing with the help of wet or oiled tissues. You should wash a baby�s genitals with soap no less than once in 4-5 days.

Girls

In the end of the first week of a girl�s life you may notice mucous excreta or excreta with some blood. As a rule, they disappear by itself in 2-3 days. This is also connected with excessive amount of mateal hormones coming to a girls� organism. During this period, a baby needs careful care. Diapers should be changed every 1,5-2 hours. If excreta still take place for more than 3 days, you need to apply for a doctor.

Girls� genitals are very sensitive and have rather low resistibility to different infections. The most common �female� disease of new-bo babies is vulvitis (inflammation of exteal genitals). So, keep them clean and warm all the time. Every time you change a diaper, wash your daughter with warm water. You can wash her either under tap or with a cotton tampon moistened in water. Move from pubis to coccyx, to prevent excesses of excrement from coming to genitals. Soap should also be used no more than once in 4-5 days, to prevent skin from getting too dry.

And yet, try not to take a great interest in babies� cosmetics. Use various creams, oils and powders only in case of need (while irritations and diaper rashes), not regularly. Otherwise you will break a natural protective skin layer of a new-bo.

Yana Mikheeva is the creator of Baby Health Directory - Pregnancy, Birth, Parenting and Baby Care resources. Are you going to get pregnant? Visit our friendly resource and read information on pregnancy and parenting, painless childbirth, growth and development of a baby, baby health, safety, signs of pregnancy.

She also has All about women site where you can find articles on various subjects, such as: diets, receipts, health, cellulite, figure, aromatherapy, wholesome food, psychology of relationships, pregnancy, parenting, fashion and many others.

Present a Unified Parental Front When Disciplining your Child

2009-07-04T01:09:00.000-07:00

Disciplining your child is never easy. You probably know from experience and mistakes how important it is to be consistent, firm and to always follow through with designated disciplinary consequences. But when there are two parents involved, it's crucial they are both on the same page and apply discipline consistently regardless of marital status. Parents should agree on how to discipline their children. To become reliable to children, both parents must be consistent in dealing with similar situations. In a situation where the parents are separated or divorced, disagreeing with each other over upbringing can create a confusing situation for children. They should make a concerted effort to keep their child's best interests at heart and sit down with their child and line out the rules and expectations and the consequences for violating those rules. Both should agree that the intended discipline is fair, and apply it consistently in a firm yet fair manner in each home. In addition, if there are disagreements regarding discipline or other parenting issues, they are best resolved when the child is not present. If the child senses discord, they may attempt to manipulate the situation to their advantage. When teaching good behavior, parents should "practice what they preach." Children lea values and beliefs more by examples adults set than by verbal instructions. Screaming at a child to be quiet or paddling a child for hitting is hypocritical and ineffective. Decide what is important and what parental response to use to teach your child. It would be more effective to calmly tell your child to be quiet or use "time-out" when a child is physically aggressive. And remember what works now may not work later down the road. Situations may dictate a different approach, and time and maturity may demand a child's rule be modified or abolished altogether. Sometimes your common sense will help you decide when bedtime rules should be modified or table manners relaxed. Some rules will be the same, others will be modified or abolished, and new ones will be introduced. But regardless of the situation, parents should always present a unified front and work together and not against each other in providing effective discipline for their child.

Cheap Baby Shower Favors A Cute and Inexpensive Way To Go

2009-07-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

Cheap baby shower favors are the way to go to help you throw an inexpensive, yet classy baby shower. A cheap baby shower doesn't necessarily mean a plain or boring baby shower. Au contraire, with a few cute ideas of some inexpensive baby shower favors, you can save money and still have a darling baby shower.

Anyone who has ever planned a baby shower is all too familiar with how much it can cost. Sure, the baby shower invitations don't cost that much, the decorations are a reasonable expense. But when you start adding it all together, it can get a little too expensive. You have the invitations, decorations, food, centerpiece, games, prizes, favors & a gift! It all starts to add up pretty fast.

So, Where to Cut Costs?

One of the best ways to save money at a baby shower is to buy or make cheap baby shower favors. Baby shower favors are a "Thank you for coming" item or memento that you give to each guest for coming to the party. They don't need to be expensive or elaborate; a little something sweet and thoughtful would be perfect.

How to Make Cheap Baby Shower Favors Cute and Memorable?

The single most important & meaningful touch that you can give to your baby shower favors is attaching a cute, heartfelt note to each favor. Use a fun thank you poem or a sweet note like, "Thanks for celebrating Julia's little boy blue! The baby shower wouldn't have been the same without you!" A simple, meaningful note will make your baby shower favors worth a lot more than an expensive, impersonal party favor.

Here are some simple & sweet ideas for cheap baby shower favors:

� Scented or decorative candles   � Baby bottles filled with candy or chocolates (maybe Hershey's Hugs and Kisses?)   � Cookie Mix   � Bread Mix   � Soup Mix   � A Little Fruit Basket   � Novelty Soaps (in baby shapes, e.g. rubber ducky, baby bootie, pacifier, etc)   � Personalized candy bars   � Scented body lotion (Little bottles cost less than $1)  � Fun Hair Products   � Scented Hair Spray   � Fun Lipstick   � Cookies, brownies, anything tasty!   � Stationary - Any and all themes (baby, country, angels, stars, Winnie the Pooh, etc,)  � Diaper Candy Cups   � Nuts  � Scrapbooking Supplies - This is a fabulous idea for shower favors because you can inexpensively put together several different items to make a little gift basket. You can put as much or as little as you want/can afford.

A helpful hint: Buying your favors in bulk and/or at a dollar store is a great way to save money on your favors (and other party items too).

Favors you can eat are always a hit! Anything edible is usually a great idea for cheap baby shower favors, and are good for both the mind AND the body, �cause they taste so good! Send your guests home with a little something sweet.

Once you have chosen your party favors, wrap them in clear cellophane bags (which are very inexpensive at any craft store) and tie them with a cute strip of ribbon. Then add a simple & sweet note, and Voila! You have darling (and cheap) baby shower favors!

With the ideas above, it is obvious that cheap baby shower favors can still be cute and fun! Remember that baby shower favors are a simple gesture of gratitude towards your guests for coming, so they don't need to be fancy nor expensive. Whatever favors you decide on, your guests will appreciate them and will have a cute (and inexpensive) favor to remember the baby shower by!

For more details and favor ideas, visit Cheap Baby Shower Favors.

Find more of Ann's baby shower articles and resources at http://www.plan-the-perfect-baby-shower.com .

ARTIFICIAL DIET FOR INFANTS.

2009-07-02T23:15:00.000-07:00

It should be as like the breast-milk as possible. This is obtained by a mixture of cow's milk, water, and sugar, in the following proportions. Fresh cow's milk, two thirds; Boiling water, or thin barley water, one third; Loaf sugar, a sufficient quantity to sweeten. This is the best diet that can be used for the first six months, after which some farinaceous food may be combined. In early infancy, mothers are too much in the habit of giving thick gruel, panada, biscuit-powder, and such matters, thinking that a diet of a lighter kind will not nourish. This is a mistake; for these preparations are much too solid; they overload the stomach, and cause indigestion, flatulence, and griping. These create a necessity for purgative medicines and carminatives, which again weaken digestion, and, by unnatural irritation, perpetuate the evils which render them necessary. Thus many infants are kept in a continual round of repletion, indigestion, and purging, with the administration of cordials and narcotics, who, if their diet were in quantity and quality suited to their digestive powers, would need no aid from physic or physicians. In preparing this diet, it is highly important to obtain pure milk, not previously skimmed, or mixed with water; and in warm weather just taken from the cow. It should not be mixed with the water or sugar until wanted, and not more made than will be taken by the child at the time, for it must be prepared fresh at every meal. It is best not to heat the milk over the fire, but let the water be in a boiling state when mixed with it, and thus given to the infant tepid or lukewarm. As the infant advances in age, the proportion of milk may be gradually increased; this is necessary after the second month, when three parts of milk to one of water may be allowed. But there must be no change in the kind of diet if the health of the child is good, and its appearance perceptibly improving. Nothing is more absurd than the notion, that in early life children require a variety of food; only one kind of food is prepared by nature, and it is impossible to transgress this law without marked injury. There are two ways by the spoon, and by the nursing-bottle. The first ought never to be employed at this period, inasmuch as the power of digestion in infants is very weak, and their food is designed by nature to be taken very slowly into the stomach, being procured from the breast by the act of sucking, in which act a great quantity of saliva is secreted, and being poured into the mouth, mixes with the milk, and is swallowed with it. This process of nature, then, should be emulated as far as possible; and food (for this purpose) should be imbibed by suction from a nursing-bottle: it is thus obtained slowly, and the suction employed secures the mixture of a due quantity of saliva, which has a highly important influence on digestion. Whatever kind of bottle or teat is used, however, it must never be forgotten that cleanliness is absolutely essential to the success of this plan of rearing children. Te quantity of food to be given at each meal ust be regulated by the age of the child, and its digestive power. A little experience will soon enable a careful and observing mother to determine this point. As the child grows older the quantity of course must be increased. The chief error in rearing the young is overfeeding; and a most serious one it is; but which may be easily avoided by the parent pursuing a systematic plan with regard to the hours of feeding, and then only yielding to the indications of appetite, and administering the food slowly, in small quantities at a time. This is the only way effectually to prevent indigestion, and bowel complaints, and the irritable condition of the nervous system, so common in infancy, and secure to the infant healthy nutrition, and consequent strength of constitution. As has been well observed, "Nature never intended the infant's stomach to be converted into a receptacle for laxatives, carminatives, antacids, stimulants, and astringents; and when these become necessary, we may rest assured that there is something faulty in our management, however perfect it may seem to ourselves." The frequency of giving food must be determined, as a general rule, by allowing such an interval between each meal as will insure the digestion of the previous quantity; and this may be fixed at about every three or four hours. If this rule be departed from, and the child receives a fresh supply of food every hour or so, time will not be given for the digestion of the previous quantity, and as a consequence of this process being interrupted, the food passing on into the bowel undigested, will there ferment and become sour, will inevitably produce cholic and purging, and in no way contribute to the nourishment of the child. The posture of the child when fed:- It is important to attend to this. It must not receive its meals lying; the head should be raised on the nurse's arm, the most natural position, and one in which there will be no danger of the food going the wrong way, as it is called. After each meal the little one should be put into its cot, or repose on its mother's knee, for at least half an hour. This is essential for the process of digestion, as exercise is important at other times for the promotion of health. As soon as the child has got any teeth, and about this period one or two will make their appearance, solid farinaceous matter boiled in water, beaten through a sieve, and mixed with a small quantity of milk, may be employed. Or tops and bottoms, steeped in hot water, with the addition of fresh milk and loaf sugar to sweeten. And the child may now, for the first time, be fed with a spoon. When one or two of the large grinding teeth have appeared, the same food may be continued, but need not be passed through a sieve. Beef tea and chicken broth may occasionally be added; and, as an introduction to the use of a more completely animal diet, a portion, now and then, of a soft boiled egg; by and by a small bread pudding, made with one egg in it, may be taken as the dinner meal. Nothing is more common than for parents during this period to give their children animal food. This is a great error. "To feed an infant with animal food before it has teeth proper for masticating it, shows a total disregard to the plain indications of nature, in withholding such teeth till the system requires their assistance to masticate solid food. And the method of grating and pounding meat, as a substitute for chewing, may be well suited to the toothless octogenarian, whose stomach is capable of digesting it; but the stomach of a young child is not adapted to the digestion of such food, and will be disordered by it. It cannot reasonably be maintained that a child's mouth without teeth, and that of an adult, fuished with the teeth of caivorous and graminivorous animals, are designed by the Creator for the same sort of food. If the mastication of solid food, whether animal or vegetable, and a due admixture of saliva, be necessary for digestion, then solid food cannot be proper, when there is no power of mastication. If it is swallowed in large masses it cannot be masticated at all, and will have but a small chance of being digested; and in an undigested state it will prove injurious to the stomach and to the other organs conceed in digestion, by forming unnatural compounds. The practice of giving solid food to a toothless child, is not less absurd, than to expect co to be ground where there is no apparatus for grinding it. That which would be considered as an evidence of idiotism or insanity in the last instance, is defended and practised in the former. If, on the other hand, to obviate this evil, the solid matter, whether animal or vegetable, be previously broken into small masses, the infant will instantly swallow it, but it will be unmixed with saliva. Yet in every day's observation it will be seen, that children are so fed in their most tender age; and it is not wonderful that present evils are by this means produced, and the foundation laid for future disease." The diet pointed out, then, is to be continued until the second year. Great care, however, is necessary in its management; for this period of infancy is ushered in by the process of teething, which is commonly connected with more or less of disorder of the system. Any error, therefore, in diet or regimen is now to be most carefully avoided. 'Tis true that the infant, who is of a sound and healthy constitution, in whom, therefore, the powers of life are energetic, and who up to this time has been nursed upon the breast of its parent, and now commences an artificial diet for the first time, disorder is scarcely perceptible, unless from the operation of very efficient causes. Not so, however, with the child who from the first hour of its birth has been nourished upon artificial food. Teething under such circumstances is always attended with more or less of disturbance of the frame, and disease of the most dangerous character but too frequently ensues. It is at this age, too, that all infectious and eruptive fevers are most prevalent; worms often begin to form, and diarrhoea, thrush, rickets, cutaneous eruptions, etc. manifest themselves, and the foundation of strumous disease is originated or developed. A judicious management of diet will prevent some of these complaints, and mitigate the violence of others when they occur.

Crib or Bassinet What is Right for Your Child

2009-07-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

So here's the question... Should you buy a crib or a bassinet?

The decision to use a crib or a bassinet is one that many parents often wrestle with. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. A bassinet is great for a newbo baby because it is a small area, which helps the infant to feel more secure. The frilly bedding also helps to make the infant look that much more precious. There are many different designs of bassinets, just as there are with cribs. The main feature that parents like about using a bassinet for the first few months is that they can have it right next to the bedside. Most of the newer models have rocking motion that you can use if you want. The bassinet doesn't rock a lot so there is no danger of it tipping over and when you lock the wheels in place, it won' rock at all.

A crib needs a larger space, so most parents have to have the nursery done. This means that you probably won't be able to keep the baby in the same room with you. During the night when the baby wakes, you'll have to get up and go out to get the infant for feeding and changing. Also a crib is much larger, so the little infant will look so very tiny lying there.

A bassinet is portable. The base has wheels so you can roll it from one room to another. A crib is much harder to move, so during the day you will still need to have a smaller bed for the baby in the living room or den. Plus, the sleeping basket comes out of the bassinet so you can take the baby's bed with you when you travel.

However, a bassinet is only good for a few months. Once the baby gets old enough to start getting up on its hands and knees, then you need to transfer him/her to a crib to sleep. The side of a bassinet are really low and once the baby starts growing, there is the danger he/she might fall out over the sides. Whether you decide to go with a bassinet, you will need to buy a crib after a few months anyway. However, if you have a bassinet that converts to a change table, this is one piece of baby fuiture you won't have to buy. The storage area under the bassinet is also a great place for keeping all the supplies you need.

Eric & Lisa Koshinsky make it easy for you to get clear, unbiased information so you can make informed purchases of baby gear. Visit greatbabygear.com today for info on everything from baby strollers to baby monitors.

EVPs And Baby Monitors: Ghosts or Just Interferences?

2009-07-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

Baby monitors are devices that help parents put their tabs on their babies even though they are not are not in the same room? But what if baby monitor transmitters pick up more than what they are supposed to? It has been the topic of discussions that baby monitors, especially audio types, pick up more than just sounds coming from the baby. Some parents tell stories of their baby monitors picking up EVPs. What are EVPs EVP is short for the term Electronic Voice Phenomenon. EVPs pertain to sounds or voices that are allegedly coming from beyond the grave. In the world of the ghost hunters, EVPs are voice recordings that are sent by ghosts or souls that have not moved on. These are sometimes used to prove that there really is life after death. While some ghost hunters use sophisticated gadgets and devices to hunt down ghost phenomenon, there are those who use baby monitors. Baby monitors are good for this kind of activities since they are quite sensitive to sounds as well as other factors in the environment. There have been a lot of reported cases by parents that they are getting signals from the baby units that are not relevant to the baby or the environment. Instead, they receive muffled, indefinable, and sometimes almost inaudible sounds which resemble voices and words coming from a human. When examined by experts, these sounds can't be technically explained. But when examined by professional ghost hunters, they tu out to be ghost voices also known as electronic voice phenomenon. Baby Monitors and Interference Baby monitors can either be wired and wireless. Both types of devices have their own advantages and disadvantages. For wireless devices though, one of the disadvantages is interference. Interferences can be in the form of intercepted voices from other wireless devices such as wireless phones or static sounds. These interferences can also cause sounds to be muffled and inaudible. So Are EVPs Real? Do you believe in ghosts? Do you believe in the afterlife? These questions seem to have no specific and factual answers and so does the question "Are EVPs real?" A sound is just a sound and it all depends on how they are interpreted. If the sound of a cat is interpreted as a moo of the cow, then it comes from a cow. If an inaudible noise is interpreted as voices of people from the afterlife then it comes from people in the afterlife. So are EVPs real? It all depends on what you believe in and how you interpret these kinds of sounds.

Disposable Diapers

2009-07-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

Diapers are undoubtedly an integral part of a baby's growing up years and disposable diapers are largely preferred by working parents for their convenience. Invented by Marion Donovan of the US, disposable diapers are a very expensive baby accessory. However, they are chosen by parents who are largely pressed for time.

When disposable diapers were first introduced in the mid 1950s, they were primarily plastic diapers with plenty of fluff. However, the present breed of disposables have come a long way. All of them are available with water-resistant covers, absorbent pads and dry-weave sheets to make the baby feel as dry and comfortable as possible. There are no attachment diaper pins needed, since most of these diapers come with excellent leak-proof Velcro attachments.

Disposable diapers, in spite of their easy-to-use factor, bring along with them a host of health problems for the baby. The most common problem is diaper rash. Due to repeated urination and lack of proper air circulation, babies often develop rashes that can be extremely painful. Some health experts are of the opinion that dyes used in disposable diapers may lead to permanent damage to the baby's liver as well as the central nervous system. There are even stray reports by some doctors and medical professionals the toxic gas emanating from a used disposable diaper may lead to asthma. The absorbent pads within the diapers contain a chemical solution(present as gel) known as sodium polyacrylate. This controls the fluid within the diaper, preventing leakage. However, this is the chemical that is solely responsible for diaper rashes.

In spite of such obvious drawbacks, disposable diaper manufacturers claim that their products have been repeatedly tested and proved safe. Big production companies also claim to have employed quality-control experts to look for manufacturing defects. Such repeated assurances from manufacturers have led many parents to switch to disposable diapers from cloth ones that are usually considered to be a healthier option.

However, the fact remains that most disposable diapers occupy huge portions of land(once they are disposed) in a world that is becoming increasingly short of space. There are also a number of air boe and water boe diseases that might arise out of such garbage. Human diapers may even prove to be fatal for animals if the toxic gas is inhaled. The disposed of diapers may even affect plant life and may go on to have a detrimental effect on our environment.

Diapers provides detailed information about diapers, cloth diapers, diaper bags, and more. Diapers is affiliated with Breast Pumps For Sale.

How To Use A Breast Pump

2009-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

Just like breast feeding, pumping is a skill that you lea. When first trying a breast pump, most mothers are only able to express a few drops of milk. With the proper practice and knowledge, the mother will be more efficient at pumping. Preparing the breast pump 1. Read all the instructions in the kit very carefully. 2. Every part of the breast pump will need to be sterilized before you begin using it. 3. After use, all the parts of the pump will need to be washed in warm, soapy water, then rinsed with hot water and drained on a clean towel. The plastic tubing doesn't need to be cleaned unless you get milk into it. If you do wash it, it should be hung to allow time to dry and drain thoroughly. 4. If your doctor feels the need, the entire kit can be sterilized every day. 5. When you first start with an electric pump, the suction level should be on the lowest possible setting. Getting started - Warm compresses, gentle massages of the breast and gentle nipple stimulation will help to stimulate a quick let down. - You should always relax while doing breast massages during pumping. Some mothers prefer to close their eyes then think about nursing the baby, imagining the baby in their arms. The more relaxed a mother is, the better let down she'll have and the more milk will be dispensed. - Your first attempts at pumping should be considered practice sessions with leaing to use the breast pump as the goal, not how much milk is actually dispensed. - When you use a hand pump, quick, short pumps at the start is stimulating and will imitate more closely the way a baby breast feeds. Once the let down occurs and milk starts to flow freely, long, steadier strokes are more effective and less tiring. - When you lea to pump, you should practice for 5 minutes on a side at least once or twice a day. Always pick the least stressful part of your day for pumping. Relaxing and realizing that the pump is your friend is the single most important thing that a mother can do. There are several things that a mother can do to help herself relax, such as putting a picture of the baby on the pump, playing cards or a game with friends, watching television, read books, or talk on the phone. Simply watching the collection bottle is not helpful and will probably put more stress on you than you actually need. (word count 426) PPPPP

Fun at Baby Showers

2009-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

Baby games to add zing to your baby shower celebrations! Games are fun and add excitement to any festivity. Besides that, they are a great way of letting your hair loose and getting a chance of familiarizing with the other guests and being at ease with one another.

Word Power

All the players are asked to write two names which they would like to suggest for the new arrival on a piece of paper. The aim is to make as many words as possible from the letters of those two suggested names by each guest. The guests should target at making as many words as possible.

The players must be told that each new word which they form from the letters of the names must have a minimum of three letters.

To add more zing to the game ask the players not to reveal the suggested names! Let the other players guess the names by seeing the constructed words!

Example: Peter�XDaisy

Pat! Pete! Tear! Year! Say!

Transferring!

Have two bowls of different sizes in front of each player. Put cotton balls in the bigger bowl. The object of the game is to transfer cotton balls from one bowl to another with the help of a spoon. To make it more challenging blindfolds all the players! The weight of the cotton ball is sure to deceive them as to many balls have been scooped. The player who transfers maximum number of balls in half a minute is declared winner.

Sorting!

Another game to be played blindfolded! Take a bowl, fill it half with uncooked rice. Add a few safety pins to it ( ensure that the pins are closed properly). This game is to be played one by one. The player blindfolds himself and tries to sort out as many safety pins from the rice in half a minute. The similarity in the physical texture is sure to be challenging!

It's yesterday once more!

All the guests are asked to carry their own baby photos to the celebration. At the celebration, these photos are handed over to chosen person, who in tu marks them and puts an identity mark on each photo. The person ensures that no damage is done to the photos as they are treasured items.

The game begins! Each player is given a piece of paper and a pen. The object is to identify each photo and write the answer on the paper. At the end, the right answers are given and the winner is the one who has most correct guesses.

These are just a few suggestions for games which could be organized to make your Baby Shower celebration an event to be remembered and cherished for years to come and at the same time help your guests get acquainted with each other.

Kim Anderson is the owner of http://www.quickandeasybabyshower.com and http://www.quickandeasybabyshower.net Sites devoted to helping you make sure your baby shower is great.

Low Supply Of Breast Milk

2009-07-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

Almost all mothers who breast feed go through a period of questioning whether or not their supply of milk is adequate. Some mothers simply aren't able to produce enough milk to meet the needs of her baby. According to many experts, true insufficiencies of milk are very rare. A lot of women think their milk supply is low when it actually isn't. Thinking this can happen if you lose the feeling of fullness in your breasts or if the milk stops leaking from your nipples. Babies that go through growth spurts may want more milk than usual, and these more frequent feedings may leave your breasts less than full. Causes of it A mother's milk supply may diminish for a brief period of time if she isn't feeding her baby often enough due to nipple pain, or a poor latch on technique. Illnesses or estrogen containing birth control pills may also affect the production of milk. What you should do The best way to handle a low supply of breast milk is through a doctor's care. You should make sure that your baby gets frequent feedings and that nothing is wrong with your nipples or your milk ducts. Doctors are the best ones to ask, as they can run tests to see if everything is fine within your body. A low supply of breast milk can affect your baby, although it's more of a mental condition than anything else. If your baby isn't gaining any weight or if he is losing weight, you should call a doctor immediately. Improved techniques for breast feeding will normally help, although in some cases weight gain or weight loss will indicate a serious conce. In most cases, you can still nurse with a temporary decrease in milk supply, although frequent breast feeding is the key to boosting your production of milk. (word count 307) PPPPP

Easy Baby Shower Party Favors and Gifts

2009-06-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

All classy baby showers today have some type of party favor or small baby shower gift to give attendees. This is a classy and caring way to thank all of the guests that have traveled from far away to help celebrate the welcoming of a new baby. While it is still possible to skip this step and go without it, it is highly recommended. Yet the baby shower party favor does not need to be a super expensive or extravagant gift. These are often just small fun tokens to remember the event.

Some ways that you can easily save money on baby shower party favors and gifts are to either assemble the gift yourself or even better make the whole gift yourself. Below you will find some simple ideas for both of these ways to save money.

Baby Shower Party Favors Savings Tip One: Some assembly required

In this category are party favors that need some assembly. This means buying in bulk and buying individual items and then putting them together to make your own custom and unique favors. Typically these can be objects that fit a theme and which can all be gathered in a small basket or gift bag.

Candles:

Candles are another fun item that can make a very classy baby shower party favor. These can be order in a variety of colors and sizes and in bulk of course. Then simply but them in a fun decorative bag or box with a nice bow on top and you have a great gift.

Bath Products: Soaps, bath oils and washes

Soaps can also be ordered in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and then assembled together to make a wonderful little basket of bath goodies. You can easily add to this some soothing bath oils, bath salts, or even fizzes. These are a lot of fun to give as you know the baby shower participant will be making good use of the gift and they will think of you as they relax and soak in the tub.

Picture Frames:

You can buy pretty plain picture frames at your local craft store and then decorate them to match the theme of the party. This can be a lot of fun to do with the help of others.

These are just a few quick ideas for the some assembly-required type of baby shower party favors. You can easily extend these into all kinds of fun gifts. The wonderful thing is you don't have to spend all of your time making these types of gifts yet you can still add a personal touch. It is always good if you have already chosen a theme for the baby shower to tie the theme into the party favors if possible so keep that in mind as you browse the isles of your local stores.

Baby Shower Party Favors Savings Tip Two: Do it yourself

This is a more advanced category of baby shower gifts and great if you have the extra time or want to reall add a personal touch to the favor. This category of gifts are ones that you and your friends can make ahead of time and then have ready for the shower. They often require time to make the gifts so make sure you plan ahead. However, these are the truly classy types of gifts that people will remember years later.

Baking:

In the some assembly required category are baked items. Things like cookies, brownies, chocolate can all be easily made ahead of time and then assembled into a fun box or basket. Chocolate can be a particularly classy item to give away. With chocolate remember the often less is more and you do not need to make 25 individual truffle chocolate for each guest. Even just a small basket of three or four chocolate truffles arranged can make a wonderful gift.

There are a lot of other things you can easily make at home with the supplies from a local craft store. You can even your own soaps or candles for the shower.

Customization Tips:

It is always nice to tie the gift in with whatever the theme of the party is. Think about the colors of the rest of the decorations and try and match these colors in the gift-wrapping. If anyone knows calligraphy or can do some type of fun fancy writing this can be a nice addition. It is also easy to make custom tags with a computer that can add a personal touch to the baby shower party favor.

Just remember plan ahead and leave yourself time to assembly the gifts.

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Why You Should Use Digital Baby Monitors

2009-06-30T20:03:00.000-07:00

Baby monitors are the parents' best friends when it comes to keeping tabs on their babies. These devices provide an extra ear and extra eye to ensure the safety of the little ones. In the past, baby monitors were simple gadgets making use of a transmitter and receiver system. But now, as mode day technology progresses, so do the baby monitors. As of today, digital baby monitors have risen up to provide parents better quality and functionality when it comes to baby monitors. Digital Baby Monitors and Other Baby Monitors One obvious difference between digital baby monitors and other old baby monitors is that it's digital! This however does not in any way mean that the former is far more superior to the latter. It's just that they use newer technologies to aid parents in taking care of their babies. Advantages of Digital Baby Monitors Digital baby monitors make use of mode digital technology thus giving them a little bit of an edge against other analog baby monitors. When it comes to audio and video baby monitors, quality offered by digital technology is superb. Another advantage that digital technology has is that it provides clearer reception. The digital receivers, whether a microphone or s camera, are also more sensitive to sound and visuals respectively. One problem of analog baby monitor devices is the fact that there are instances when neighbours can actually tap in to the signal of your baby monitors and listen. With the digital technology, privacy is kept since it broadcasts private signals that only you, the parents, have access to. Another dilemma that has plagued analog baby monitors before is the range. There is no total mobility since parents can easily get out of range from the baby unit. But with digital monitors, the range of the devices has been extended making it more possible for the parents to roam around the house without worrying of getting out of range. Disadvantages of Digital Baby Monitors Digital baby monitors do also have their fair share of disadvantages. One of the most controversial topics about digital technology in baby monitors is health risk. Since these digital devices make use of signals like electro magnetic waves, they may cause health problems to babies especially when they are at that stage when growth and development is on "rapid mode." A solution developed to counter this problem simply states that parents should put the baby monitor as far away as possible from the child without sacrificing the quality of monitoring. This way, exposure to the harmful waves is, if not eliminated, at least minimized. This next issue can be a disadvantage for some people but not for others. This issue is about the price. Digital baby monitors are quite more expensive compared to other baby monitors. This is expected though since it is using the latest of mode technology. If you have the right budget or extra money to spare, then the issue of price is not really that of a disadvantage for you. Conclusion Digital baby monitors are the latest devices that have emerge from the baby monitor market. They may have some edge over older analog gadgets but the latter are nevertheless still effective. If you opt to use the latest technology when it comes to baby monitoring, and if you have extra money to spare, then digital baby monitors are the right devices for you.

Choosing The Right Music Program For Your Toddler

2009-06-30T04:11:00.000-07:00

Music is an integral part of childhood development. A simple Inteet research yields thousands of documents supporting the importance of music in brain development. From the first sounds of a lullaby to the repetition of basic nursery rhymes, each child will respond to the simplest forms of music. Numerous studies report the basic fundamentals of music providing the foundation for leaing math as well as building self-esteem and confidence.

Music classes can be an excellent venue to share music with your child. Not only do children develop a sense of rhythm, the quality time spent in a class with your toddler contributes to the bond that you share.

Finding the right music class for your toddler can be as easy as tuing to your local city parks and recreation department. If the city does not offer a program, they might be able to recommend a private school or program in your area. Music schools advertise in the yellow pages and on the Inteet. Once you have found the available opportunities there are several things to look for before deciding on the right program for your toddler.

Ten Important Questions to Ask any Program or School:

1. What kinds of programs do you offer? Schools may offer programs that are focused on vocal performance, instruments or a mixture of both. Music comes in so many forms, consider which form your child will develop the most from. A very energetic child may do better in a class where instruments (drums, cymbals, shakers) are the main focus. A shy child may flourish in a class that encourages vocal performance.

2. What are the age groups? What is the age breakdown and how many children are in a typical class? Choosing a class that suits your toddlers age range is important. You know your child best. If your child is above the developmental curve, you may consider requesting a trial day with the next class level. Look for a class that has the average age similar to your child.

3. How many times a week/month do you offer classes and what are the times available? Children are so diverse with their daytime schedules. A late napper might benefit from an early moing or mid-day class. Conversely, an early evening class might work better for parental participation when work schedules require night activities.

4. Do you offer a free trail class to attend? A great music program will encourage you to come in for a trial class. Use the free trial to study the interaction between the instructors and children. Are they engaging and enthusiastic? Do the other children seem to enjoy the class? Does the time work for your toddler? Talk to the other parents and get feedback about the curriculum. You will lea the most from other participants.

5. What are the credentials of the teachers? Before you commit to the class, you need to feel comfortable with the safety of the classroom and the dedication of the staff. Does the school/program offer the credentials of the instructors? Does the training require a particular education? Each program may have different requirements of the instructors some of which offer specialized training in their methods. If it is important to you that the instructors have childhood development skills, ask in advance.

6. Are there additional charges for materials? Some programs have kits that you are asked to bring to each class. These kits may have several different types of instruments. Other programs provide instruments to be shared during class. The kits are not always included in the class price.

7. Is there parent interaction? Or, what will be expected from the parent or guardian attending with the child? If you are a hands on parent and want to be sure that parent participation is encouraged, you should consult with them regarding how much or how little parents are expected to be involved. This activity could provide much needed together time so a class that requires a more instructor driven interaction may not be what you need.

8. Do you have any references that I may call? If you do not get a chance to view a sample class, ask them for references from past or present students. Ask the other parents to name the best aspects as well as any downfalls they found with the program. Remember children and parents share their own experiences, you may find more than one reference to be most helpful.

9. Do you offer a discount for buying a package? Like typical schools, some classes are offered on a term basis. For instance, if a term is 8 weeks and the sessions are available all school year, you may ask for a multiple term discount. Programs available through parks and recreation may not offer such prepaid discounts but it never hurts to ask.

10. Do you offer a payment plan? Music schools, independent or through the city, may offer scholarships or extended payment plans. Knowing in advance may save you valuable time and effort if you qualify.

In conclusion, asking the right questions during your search for the school, class or program is critical to setting up a great experience for both you and your child. The payoff might be watching your shy child sing the loudest or your rambunctious child sit attentively watching an engaging instructor. Music fills our every day lives, why not find a musical experience to share with your growing child?

Author: Kathie Papera, founder and owner of Lilypad Baby a premier site for stylish and unique baby gifts that can be personalized.

A Guide To Your Pregnancy

2009-06-30T04:08:00.001-07:00

The first step of your pregnancy, after seeing the little positive stick should to have it confirmed. Call immediately to have a pregnancy test done with your local doctor, you may be in luck and get in that same day or have to wait about a week or two. Patience will become your best friend during this time or your worst enemy, waiting can become a very hard thing when you want to know for sure whether you are or aren't pregnant. More than likely you'll get a phone call a few days later to confirm it. Set up an appointment to see your OB/GYN or midwife as soon as possible, chances are you'll be meeting his/her staff before you ever meet them. This is the first appointment where your doctor/midwife will want to know all your medical history. If you've been pregnant, what types of sicknesses run in your family, etc. If you can, try making sure you know all of this ahead of time, maybe even have it all down on paper so when he/she asks you are prepared. During the days or weeks leading up to this meeting you may have conces, write them down and ask them. Believe it or not doctors are there to help you, and they've been asked every question you can possibly think of. Before leaving your doctor may even give you a bag full of goodies all about being pregnant. Read these, they may prove beneficial and not to mention they've got coupons. Your doctor will either give you another appointment or have you set one up before leaving. There are some great books out there if you are really worried about what will happen next or how birth is going to be, check them out at your local library. Make sure that you get your prenatal vitamins, they are very important during pregnancy. If for some reason you can't take them, talk with your doctor he/she may be able to prescribe a lower dosage or something else. You'll get your first ultrasound, also known as US around week 20, this is normally when you find out what sex the baby is. However some doctors like to call it safe and give you an ultrasound around 10-12 weeks just to make sure the baby is in the proper location and all is going well. You will also be asked to take an orange drink that you must drink in five minutes. You'll wait around for an hour to three hours, at which point your blood gets drawn and you can go home. The test determines if you have or have a chance of getting gestational diabetes. At first your appointments will be about 4 weeks apart until you hit the 36 week and at that point it'll be two weeks later and a week later after that until the baby is bo. By now you should be preparing to have the baby. Yes, I'm sure you'll have some anxiety towards the end of your pregnancy. You've went this far, it's time you see your reward.

Hang Your Diapers on an Indoor Clothes Drying Rack

2009-06-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

One of the worst energy consumers in your house is the dryer. In fact 58 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity are used in clothes dryers annually. But if you are washing cloth diapers at home it is a given that you must also dry them right? Well, in the summer months it may be an obvious choice to rely on "solar" power and hang your diapers (and other clothing) on the line outside.

But what about those cloudy, rainy, or snowy days when hanging diapers outside is not practical? The answer may be an indoor clothes drying rack. These are very similar to outdoor racks but they are designed specifically for indoor use. Often times they are placed in a garage, laundry room or bathroom and while some can be attached permanently to your home many portable options are available. You might even take a more frugal leap and make one yourself. Mother Earth News magazine has directions online for making one here.

Perhaps you could put the diapers on an indoor rack until they are almost dry and then use the dryer (on hottest setting) to finish drying and to sanitize the diapers. This would help you save 75% of the energy you would use otherwise.

Other Diaper Laundering, Energy Saving Tips:

Clothes the door to your laundry room in the summer to keep the heat from entering the rest of the house. In the winter, do the opposite and keep the door open.

Don't overload the dryer. Overloading doesn't allow ample space for the clothes to tumble and they will take longer to dry.

Purchase a front-load washer. Front-loading washers leave less water in your clothes than top-load washers meaning your dryer doesn't have to work as hard.

Clear lint from the lint tray before you use the dryer each time. Proper air flow will cut down the drying time, as well as wear and tear on the dryer and your clothes.

Tiffany Washko is president of Jelly Bean Diapers - a cloth diaper manufacturing company, The Diaper Jungle, http://www.diaperjungle.com and Nature Moms, http://www.naturemoms.com.

After working several years in corporate healthcare marketing and public relations, she took time away to be a mother. This new pursuit lead her to a new passion, helping new moms make the decision to retu to the basics and use cloth diapers.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Baby Monitors

2009-06-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Baby monitors, just like with other gadgets, have taken advantage of the developing mode technology. What was once a simple transmitter and receiver system have gone up a notch to provide parents the ease of watching over their baby without sacrificing comfort and security. As of today, parents have different choices of baby monitors one of which is the wireless baby monitors. But even with all the advantages these gadgets provide, it is inevitable that there are also disadvantages. Comparing Wireless With Wired Baby Monitors Baby monitors can come as wired and wireless devices. Wired baby monitors, as its name implies, makes use of wires to be able to connect the transmitting device and the receiving device. This is a very good system when it comes to baby monitors the only setback is that, the length of wires makes mobility quite impossible. The receiver would more or less just stay in one place. Wireless baby monitors however are more flexible than wired ones. Since it is wireless, the limitation that the length of wires provide does not apply to it making it more possible to move around the house while still being able to monitor your baby. Almost all types of monitors, whether audio or video, can be wired or wireless. It all comes down to budget and preference. The Advantages of Wireless Baby Monitors As have been mentioned, the most advantageous feature of a wireless baby monitor is mobility. Imagine being able to move around the house doing all the necessary chores without losing the ability to watch over the baby. You can transfer from room to room or while even in the bathroom and still you won't lose track of what is happening to your baby. Another advantage of these wireless devices is the ease of setting it up. You do not have to fidget with wires to be able to set your baby monitoring system up. Just setup the wireless device for the baby anywhere you want in the room without worrying whether the length of the wire is enough to reach the other room where you will setup the receiver. In terms of aesthetics, wireless baby monitors also provide parents an advantage. You do not have to worry about wires sticking out or going out of place. Last but not the least you can easily transfer the device from one place to another. For example, if you want to leave your baby in the living room for a while, you can get the device from the baby's room and transfer it to the living room without going through the difficulty of moving the wires. The Disadvantages of Wireless Baby Monitors If such devices have advantages, then it is possible that they also have disadvantages. This is true with wireless baby monitors. The most disadvantageous aspect of these wireless devices is interference. Wireless interference may come as irksome sounds, static sounds or buzzing sounds. In video monitors, interference may come in the form of fuzzy or static reception. These wireless interferences are usually caused by other wireless devices around the house like the wireless phone or a router. Other wireless baby monitors from your neighbor's house can also cause interference. Fortunately, there are ways to solve these kinds of problems like adjusting channels or changing frequencies. Another disadvantage of wireless baby monitors is the range. It may have been freed from the clutches of wires but they are still limited on how far the distance of the baby's device is from your device.

Celebrity Baby Names What s In A Name

2009-06-28T21:16:00.000-07:00

What is it with celebrities and what they name their babies?

Decades ago we had Frank Zappa, who named two of his kids Moon Unit and Dweezil � but we sort of expect that from a rock star, don�t we? To top it off, he named his other two kids Ahmet Emuukha Rodan and Diva � so at least in that family they all have rather unique names.

I admit that I thought it was pretty cool when Demi and Bruce named one of their daughters Scout, in honor of the young heroine from �To Kill A Mockingbird� � but then they went and named the other two Rumor and Tallulah Belle. Not sure why they did that � thankfully they seem like nice, normal kids.

No need to discuss what Michael Jackson named his children � that�s the least of his, or their worries, frankly.

I had a cat named Coco when I was a child, and now David and Courtney Cox Arquette have a daughter named Coco. And how about Apple for a name? Seriously, why would an Academy Award winning actress name her child Apple? Will Gwenyth name the one she�s expecting this spring Banana? Or maybe go with something from the vegetable family?

Don�t get me wrong � I think trying to find a unique name for your child is wonderful. There are more than enough Bob�s in the world right now (my husband being one of them). But aren�t there better ways of choosing a name for your baby than drawing a name out of a hat or trying to recall what you ate just before conception? And isn�t life already going to be hard enough for these celebrity kids without being saddled with bizarre names?

Not all celebrities have given their offspring strange names. Thankfully, Britney Spears named her son Sean, and Kate Winslet chose the simple, but strong, Joe for her son. And there are lots of celebrity sons named Jack and Henry out there, along with a few Grace and Samantha�s, so not all is lost.

But what I wonder is if celebrities know there are �Baby Naming� books out there to help them. Years ago we got one of those books when we considered starting a family. With the last name Ryder, of course we played around with some fun names � like Ezekiel Zechariah � E.Z. Ryder. Or Paperback. Maybe Horseback. But would we have actually done that? Of course not. Well, at least not Paperback or Horseback. Then, when we didn�t have children, we used the book to name our pets. We may be the only people in the world with a Siamese Cat named Dugan � and actually know what it means! And we used the book to offer �helpful� suggestions to family and friends.

These books are great � not only do you get thousands of possible names, you also get their heritage and meaning. So if any of you know Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, I have a suggestion for the perfect baby shower gift for them � a baby naming book. Or who knows what those two might come up with for a name. I shudder even thinking about it.

Susan Ryder is willing to offer her services for free to celebrities for help with naming their offspring. This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names.

Pains during Growth in Children

2009-06-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

Growing pain is part and parcel of the growing phase in a child's life. When the child stops growing so will the growing pain and when adolescence is reached, they disappear completely. Growing pain can occur between three to five years or eight to twelve years of age. Growing pains are usually experienced in the legs usually in the calves, in the area in front of thighs and behind the knees. The pain starts either in the afteoon or night, just before bedtime. The child can go to bed pain free, but can wake up in the middle of the night complaining of throbbing pain in the legs. But the good part is that these pains vanish by moing. About twenty five to forty percent of the children are known to experience growing pain. Growing pains are experienced in the muscle region and not around the bones or joints. One of the major reasons of getting growing pains is because of the strenuous activities of the kids during the day. All the jumping around, running and climbing make the muscles tired. But no evidence has been collected which can prove that the growing pain is caused by bone growth. Growing pains are also known to be caused by spurt of growth. This happens because the tendons or the muscles are too tight and do not synchronize with the growing of the bones. As a results muscle spasms are caused which last for less than fifteen minutes. The child usually gets pain in both the legs and not just one. And usually, growing pains do not get accompanied with redness, swelling or fever. The pain should be over by moing and if it is still persisting after the awakening of the kid, the problem could be related to something else and more serious. If the pain is unbearable, the parent or caretaker should administer pain relieving medications which are available over the counter such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Aspirin should not be given to children as they have a tendency to develop a very serious illness known as Reye Syndrome. Heating pads can be placed on the region that is hurting to ease the pain. Massage can also be given by the parent or the child can do stretching exercise to help the muscles relax. If the child develops fever, redness, swelling, tendeess, limitation in movement, or if the child limps while walking, the doctor should be approached. Before that the parent can do a little diagnosis of the intensity of the pain by feeling around the area and observing the pain experienced by the child. The pain shouldn't be so intense that the child is abstained from normal routine such as walking, running or playing. The doctor conducts the diagnosis of exclusion to understand the problem. According to this diagnosis, it is not made until all the conditions are checked before considering growing pains. The doctor studies the child's medical history and conducts a physical examination. In some serious cases, the doctor advices to go for X-ray or blood test before the final decision is made. Children can prevent the growing pains by doing stretching exercises on a daily basis. The exercise need not be complex. Even if the pain subsides, the exercise should be continued so as to keep the tendons and muscles relaxed and to adjust with the growth spurt. Fluids, when taken in good quantity, decrease the cramping. For this reason, the child should be given tonic water or quinine before going to bed. PPPPP Word Count 592

Elimination Communication aka Potty Talk

2009-06-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

No, not that kind of potty talk. That's another topic altogether! I'm talking about Elimination Communication (EC), a new word given to an ancient practice: raising baby without diapers. E.C. is also referred to as Natural Infant Hygiene.

When I first heard about Elimination Communication, my second child was about 8 months old. The concept intrigued me. I knew that women around the world did not use diapers, and though they wore their babies on their bodies, they didn't get wet on. They simply tuned in to their baby's cues and at the right time, held baby out over a bush and let nature take its course. I decided to try it with my son. I was tickled pink when I sat him on a little potty and he went, right on cue. It's like he knew exactly what to do.

The party line of mode child rearing experts is that baby has no control over his sphincter muscles until around 18 months, but I didn't believe that. I noticed with my kids that they would wake up dry every moing from the time they were around 7 months old or so (and I use cloth diapers so I knew the diaper was dry). Besides, babies all over the world don�t read books by American parenting experts!

My �EC babies�, at 9 months of age, used the potty for almost all of their eliminations. They rarely wore diapers (only when we went out, sometimes not even then) and instead wore either training pants or little underwear. Early potty training (as young as 15- 24 months) is a side effect of EC but it's not really the goal. The goal is communication. If you put diapers on the baby from the time he is newbo, he's effectively being trained to "go" in a diaper. He's being "diaper trained."

EC babies do have accidents. Sometimes, during a developmental leap (crawling, walking), babies take a break from cueing their parents when they need to go. They're just too busy to be bothered.

But since they don't become accustomed to the feel of waste on their skin, finishing to potty independence is easy. They don't really have to be trained as toddlers because they already prefer the potty. It's not scary, neither do they have to be coerced, bribed, etc as often happens with conventionally trained toddlers.

Elimination Communication is just another option for parents. The thing I love about it is that it proves that babies are so much smarter than we give them credit for. Just as it was fascinating and almost unbelievable the first time you saw a baby signing to its parents (whether that baby was yours or someone else's), it's also really cool to see a baby clearly communicating their elimination needs. For example, when my youngest baby is playing happily on the floor, then crawls up to me quickly and starts fussing, I sit her on the potty and she poops. Instead of struggling with an unhappy, squirmy baby during diaper changes, her needs are met in a more hygienic way, quickly and easily, with respect for her dignity.

For those who are interested in leaing more, a non profit organization called DiaperFreeBaby.org has appeared on the scene to give information and support. There is also a wonderful book called Diaper Free! by Ingrid Bauer that tells you how to get started with the practice, stories from parents and practical tips.

Now regarding potty talk, if anyone knows the secret to getting your 5 year old son to stop communicating about eliminating, I'm all ears.

Carrie Lauth is a mom of 4 who enjoys helping other Moms raise their babies the natural way. Come listen and lea with her at http://www.naturalmomstalkradio.com and for more information on EC, visit http://www.naturalbabyworld.com

Making Kindergarten Fun

2009-06-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

A preschool child takes his or her signals from people around them, and most of the times that is mom and dad. In almost every situation, the child watches you to see if this is a good time to laugh, to cry, to pray, to be serious or to be afraid. Just watch your little one when you are out in an unfamiliar situation. Her little eyes will be glued to you and when you react a certain way, she will immediately react that way too. So the influence you have on your child's attitude about her first year at school will be driven to a very large extent by your attitude. If you are nervous or anxious about this big step, your child will go into the first days in kindergarten tense and serious too. Of course, you know the importance of shaping your child's attitude toward school. You want them to take school seriously. In a strange way, in order to get your child interested in school, especially in this important first year, you have to lift the pressure and speak of them about kindergarten in their own. And the orientation of any child in the months leading up to kindergarten can be sized up in one word – fun. We often underplay the importance of fun and even scoff at how much value a child places on fun even in going to school. "Fun" is a code word for a child. It means more than just a child's desire to play in a frivolous way. In other contexts, "fun" means the child wants to be engaged, challenged, become part of a process, loved, feel safe and feel joy about what he or she is doing. So when a child complains that something "isn't fun", it might just mean that the activity is frightening or fails to connect to them on their own terms. Leaing to listen to your child is a big step in helping them get ready for all of life's challenges including this big step into kindergarten. So the more you can do to make their first days in kindergarten fun will be of tremendous value in helping your child want to go to school and overcome their feelings of anxiety and stress about doing something new and a little scary. The best way to make kindergarten fun for your child is for you to have fun getting her ready for the event. The process of buying new clothes and school supplies can be great fun for parent and child so if you take your little one with you and let him or her make choices about those new clothes, about the kind of notebook they will take and about their lunch pail or carrier, those things will have special meaning to them and the child will be excited to put them to work. Talk up the fun your child is going to have at kindergarten. By emphasizing that they will get to play lots of games and make lots of new friends at school, they will take that clue from you and go into the new experience looking for new friends. The more engaged you are in your child's school experience, the more he or she will see this as a big adventure and go off in the spirit of joy and fun to "discover the world" because they know mom and dad will be waiting eagerly at home to hear all about their big day. Giving your child the spirit of fun and adventure about going to school is probably the best gift you can give her and the best way you can prepare your little one to take on the challenges of school. And if your new student goes into school looking at it as a big fun outing, each new assignment will be taken on with creativity, mental energy and personality and that will naturally give her success in everything she does at school. And as success leads to more success, before long you will have a child that loves school and goes there with energy and enthusiasm throughout kindergarten and on into first grade and up and up in the latter of success in the academic world. PPPPP Word Count 713

Baby Shower Invitations Is Your Way The Right Way

2009-06-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

The fun and excitement begins before any baby shower party plans are finalised, how you ask. As soon as the person invited receives their invitation all hell breaks loose. To be on the receiving end of an invitation to a baby shower sends a signal to say good times are coming. Guests treasure this moment where they feel special in being asked to join in the celebration of the new bo on the way. Therefore the interest taken in the invitation will be similar to that of a forensic search where every little detail on the invite will be checked out, this is why baby shower invitations have to be right.

Baby shower invites are gladly kept as keepsakes so give your guests an invitation they will want to frame and keep forever.

Selecting the right invitation for your baby shower can prove to be just as much of a challenge as the planning of the whole event.

Themes for baby showers are very rewarding to the eye in style and design with hundreds to choose from. Sailing boats for little boys and dollies for girls. All these are very popular picture themes used on baby shower invites. You may have plans to keep the theme behind the baby shower a mystery, if so a photo of a baby surrounded by cuddly toys is the best way to keep it a secret. Please do not place a picture of a girl and boy because imaginations may just run wild?

If you have decided on a theme for the baby shower invitation even better as guests may want join in the fun by dressing up in a costume that suits the baby shower setting.

Important factors when writing your invites is to make sure to add the guests name, this may sound silly but can easily be overlooked. Where and when the event will take place the contact number of the host and gender of baby if known. In abundance are companies that specialise in baby shower invitations. You will be amazed to see how many designs and styles there are to choose from.

Usually about two months before the birth of the baby is when baby showers are celebrated. Preparations take place well in advance sometimes as early as the announcement of the pregnancy. These events are normally arranged by close friends and family. If this occasion is to be a memorable one then plan carefully. A sure way of guaranteeing remembrance is to celebrate the baby shower in a unique way; you can do this by getting the words right on the baby shower invitation.

Wording usually is in the form of nursery rhymes or quotes, to be in a jolly mood at the time of sending the invites will help express your feelings thus implementing intimacy in your message to a true friend.

A picture paints a thousand words but it is what it says that matter.

1. Please come to my party for future little feet that pitter patter and if you can not come it does not matter.

2. Please come to my party for future little feet that pitter patter. AS LONG AS YOU ARE THERE THAT IS ALL THAT MATTERS.

Unique choice of words of your own is the best way in making your baby shower extra special. How on earth can a person other than your self know what it is you want to say, by doing it your way this occasion will never be forgotten.

All you could possibly want to announce babys presence can found here at http://www.good-baby-showers.com Future babies need a good education to secure a lifestye. An amazing site with proven results http://www.allaboutonlineeducation.com

Food Allergies in Kids

2009-06-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

Food allergies are a common problem in kids. Nearly two million children have food allergies in the United States. Some food allergies are life threatening, even if the food is taken in very little quantity. Peanut tops the list of notorious foods which cause allergies. Following it are milk, especially cow's milk, soy, eggs, wheat, seafood and other nuts. Food allergies are caused when the immune system is confused. The job of the immune system is to protect the body from diseases, bacteria, viruses and germs. The antibodies produced by the immune system helps to fight these minute exteal organisms which makes the person sick. But if the body is allergic to certain food, the immune system mistakes the food to a harmful foreign substance and takes action towards it thinking that it is dangerous to the body. The body acts adversely, when it isn't supposed to do so. When the immune system detects allergic substance, the antibodies produce mast cells. They are a kind of immune system cell which release a chemicals, such as histamine, in the bloodstream. These chemicals affect the respiratory system, digestive system, nose, eyes, throat, and skin. Initial symptoms are runny nose, tingling sensation in the lips or tongue, and itchy skin rash like hives. The reaction can be mild to severe and depends on every individual. The symptoms can appear right after the food is consumed or after few hours. Other symptoms are cough, wheezing, nausea, hoarse voice, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, and throat tightness. A sudden and harsh allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis. The patient encounters many problems, all at once which involve blood vessels, the heart, digestion, breathing, and skin. The blood pressure drops very steeply, the tongue swells and there is swelling in the breathing tubes. Patients who have such allergic reactions should be ready to handle emergencies. They should always carry some type of medicine which will help to combat or reduce the adverse affect of the food. Most of the times, it is very easy to detect the cause of food allergy. Problems such as hives begin to surface as soon as the child eats the substance he is allergic to. At other times, it becomes very difficult to determine the cause of allergy. In such cases, everything should be observed under close surveillance. Food items which are made out of many ingredients should be thoroughly checked for the allergic cause. Most of the times, allergies are inherited from other family members or other kids bo with food allergies. Changes in the surroundings and the body play a major role in these kinds of cases. Some of the kids aren't actually allergic to the food and show only mild reaction. Like people who are lactose intolerant suffer from diarrhea and belly pain after consuming milk and diary products. This is not an indication that the child is allergic to milk. This reaction happens because their body is incapable of breaking down the sugars which are found in diary products and milk. If the conditions are severe, a doctor should be consulted immediately. If food allergy is diagnosed, the doctor refers to an allergy specialist. The doctor asks questions like eating pattes, past allergic reactions and the time period between the consumption of food and the surfacing of the symptoms. The specialist can also ask about allergy related conditions like asthma or eczema and whether allergic reactions are hereditary. Usually skin test and blood test is done to test the antibodies and the reaction they have on the skin when it is exposed to the allergic substance. Kids who are allergic to egg and milk outgrow them as the age progresses. But allergies which are severe and are related to items such as peanut, shrimps, and some kind of fish, last for a lifetime. Other than food, children can be allergic to certain medicines and flower pollen. The best way to avoid allergies is to avoid the cause of it. No specific medicine has been developed for the cure of allergies. PPPPP Word Count 676

Choosing The Best Baby Shower Favors

2009-06-26T00:40:00.001-07:00

Planning a baby shower is an exciting and fun time for the expectant mother, her family, her friends and her coworkers as well. Baby showers are fun for everyone and they are a great party as well, complete with games, gifts and of course some great party favors.

Choosing the right party favors for a baby shower can be challenging for the person whose job it is to plan the whole thing and make it memorable. There are so many choices when it comes to choosing party favors for the baby shower that it can often be somewhat overwhelming.

==Shop Around And Match The Baby Shower Favors To The Personality Of The Mother To Be==

The key to choosing the very best party favors, as with many other things, is to shop around, and to pay close attention to the personalities and individual tastes of the new mom and the baby shower guests.

==Places To Find Ideas For Baby Shower Favors==

When looking around for ideas, there are a number of places to look. The many magazines and books dedicated to baby related subjects and new mothers often have some great articles about baby showers, complete with some innovative and interesting ideas for the party favors to be used.

If you have attended a baby shower recently, you may be a step ahead of the game when looking for the perfect baby shower favors.

You may want to choose a party favor similar to the one you yourself received if you liked it. Or you may want to choose a variation on the theme of those party favors.

==Ask Your Family Members, Friends And Coworkers For Baby Shower Favor ideas==

Even if you have not attended a recent baby shower, chances are that one of your family members or close friends has. Be sure to ask your family members, friends and coworkers what kinds of party favors they chose for their own baby showers, or what types of party favors they liked the best.

==Tried And True Baby Shower Favors==

There are a number of tried and true party favors that always seem to be a hit with any baby shower, no matter who the expectant mother is. Some of the most poplar baby shower gifts, of course, include food, and a baby bootie or rattle filled with chocolate is likely to be a big hit with any set of baby shower guests.

No matter what type of party favors you choose for your baby shower, your guests and the mom to be will all enjoy the thoughtfulness and the time you spent putting the party together.

Shaunta Pleasant is a professional writer and editor on baby shower topics. Visit my site to lea more about planning the perfect wedding at http://www.baby-shower-gala.com/baby_shower_favor.html

Baby Strollers On A Budget

2009-06-26T00:36:00.000-07:00

Since you got the news, you have begun gather the things your new bundle of joy will be needing. If this is your first baby you may be overwhelmed by all the decisions at first. The type of stroller you will use for your baby is one of the biggest decisions you will need to make.

Your budget is the first thing to consider when you are choosing from among the many different types of strollers. Stroller costs can range from $10 to $400 and higher. The lower end strollers are generally the light weight umbrella strollers.

These strollers are advantageous because they are easy to fold and can store almost anywhere. The features and quality of the stroller may increase as the prices increase. Strollers come with a variety of features and you must decide which ones are most important to you.

Do you prefer a regular stroller and a car seat or a convertible travel system? There are travel systems that come with a stay in the car base, an infant carrier/ car safety seat, and a stroller frame for the infant seat to which it is attached.

These are wonderful especially for your newbo baby. A play tray that has places for a bottle or juice cup come with strollers. Canopies with a vinyl window come with many strollers so you can keep an eye on the baby.

Many strollers come with easily applied footbrakes that are attached to the both rear wheels and some include a wrist strap break that is used with the foot break. It provides a bit of extra safety preventing the stroller from rolling away while you are stopped while you use have the strap on.

Many strollers are now coming with a parent tray that fits over the handlebar and a large storage basket under the seat(s). It has insets for a cup of coffee or a soda, your cell phone, keys, and a snack. Now on many strollers the handle bars are reversible and can be moved from front to rear or vice versa and they are height adjustable.

The reversible handle bars can help you to see your baby while he rides if necessary and the height adjustable feature is a great back saver. The seat must be considered next. Is the seat able to recline and if it is will your newbo be able to lie almost flat if it reclines enough.

Is the seat comfortable and well padded for your baby? Can you remove the seat padding to wash it? Most strollers that have blankets that attach under the seat are on the upper end. These blankets on your baby's stroller like a bunting on wheels.

Rain hood can be detached and are used also to protect your baby from wind and harsh sunlight. The decision about your baby stroller has another twist. Your friend has a free almost brand new stroller that you can have.

She agrees to clean it and have it ready for you. Will it be a safe choice to use a used stroller for your baby? For you and your baby this could be a good choice but you will have to look over some things before your baby rides in it.

There should be cracks, dents, or gaps in the frame. Bolts and screws must all be in place Anything less could cause an accident, seriously injuring your baby. Are there any sharp spots on the frame? Are there screws sticking out that could cut your baby or that are loose?

The frame must be properly joined to the frame; is it? Do you need to check of leaks in the air pressure of the wheels or are they solid? The wheels; are they wo? The wheels, do they need replacing?

Are the wheels tuing appropriately? The axels; are they straight? Do the brakes operate correctly by holding when they are applied? No matter if the seat is in straight us position or reclining position, does the seat hold? A seat that does not hold its place could cause serious injury to the baby.

Does the seat lining fit the frame properly and is it clean? A variety of options, styles and types of strollers are available. Strollers are available with multiple seats for two or more children.

There is a variety of seating arrangements including tandem and side by seating as well as stadium seating which a variation of tandem seating where the rear seat is higher than the front allowing the second child to see more than just the back of a head.

Jogging strollers have one large wheel out in front and two rear wheels. Multiple seating is also an option with jogging strollers. Whether the stroller is used or new! Enjoy outings with your child or children.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Baby strollers and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

Peanuts and Pregnancy

2009-06-26T00:32:00.000-07:00

Ask any parent who has a child who is allegeric to peanuts how difficult their live has become. Food shopping can take hours because every food label must be read it and studied to make sure it contains no traces of peanuts. Arrangements for peanut free foods must be made with the child's school ahead of time and other children's birthdays parties can be a parent's worse nightmare. Peanut allergies although common can be one of the most fatal allergies a child could suffer from. Some children are so sensitive to their peanut allergy that if they come into contact with peanuts just from someone else's skin, their life can be at risk. Peanut allergies can lead to anaphylactic shock which is a sever allergic reaction that can be fatal. Peanut allergies are usually not diagnosed until a child reaches the age of 2 or even three years old. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that parents who have a peanut allergy in the family should wait until their child is at least three years old before giving them peanuts or anything containing peanuts. There are even some conservative obgyns who advise their pregnant patients not to eat peanuts especially if when they are in their third trimester regardless of if there is a history of peanut allergy in the family or not. The reason for this is because in order for a peanut allergy to develop, the child has to come into contact with small traces of a peanut. This contact sensitizes the child so that they later have a severe allergic reaction. Some experts believe that this first sensitization can occur during pregnancy. It is believed that a tiny amount of peanut protein can cross the placenta. In fact a recent study showed that if a women ate peanuts or peanut butter while pregnant their baby could be four times more likely to develop a peanut allergy than a child whose mother didn't eat any peanuts during her pregnancy. This isn't to say though that if you have a no history of nut allergies you should avoid peanuts at all costs. In fact, peanuts and peanut butter are very beneficial to you and your baby. Peanuts are a useful source of folic acid and protein, both which are very important to your and your growing baby. Peanuts and peanut butter has been said to help some women get through the first trimester moing sickness. Keep in mind however that there have been some instances when women who had no history of peanut allegeries in their family and ate a over whelming amount of peanuts or even peanut butter through out their pregnancies wound up with children who had a peanut allergy. Before you decide to throw out all your peanuts and say good bye to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, talk to your doctor. Give your doctor a detailed family history and let him know if there are any peanut allergies in your family. With your doctors help you will be able to create a healthy peanut eating plan for your pregnancy. If you do not feel comfortable at all eating peanuts due to the risk do not let anyone change your mind. It is your body and your child and you have the right to make that decision.

Free Baby Shower Games Laughter is all that Matters

2009-06-25T04:56:00.000-07:00

Daunting is not the word to use when organising baby shower games because it really can prove to be fun for all involved with the planning. But if not going according to plan then daunting it can be. Shower parties are no ordinary gatherings they are a celebration where more detail and preparation is needed for everything to run smooth. The host of a baby shower plays a very important role when it comes to making decisions. So careful planning of all activities for on the day will definitely need a considerable amount of thought if perfection is to be achieved.

After planning the food menu/decorations and speeches it is time to think about what games to play. If this occasion is to be a happy joyous fun filled event with guaranteed laughter then a sure way of this happening is to choose the right baby shower party games. Not all guests participate in the games but the biggest majority do. Activities as such are relevant in livening up the occasion.

Shower ideas for games can be found freely on the inteet and the good news is most are free, so definitely worth considering if on a budget. I stress not all free baby shower games is every ones cup of tea.

The downside to free games are the print outs are not quite as eye catching as the games you would find on the shelves down at your local store. At the end of the day it is a game and it is free.

It would be worth talking to the mother-to-be to see if she has any objection to using free baby shower games. Depending on your guests, unattractive print outs may not be an issue as long as the concept of the game produces fun and laughter. If impressing is first and foremost in your mind then stick with the professionally devised games because free baby shower games normally lack class materials. It is best you choose another option if you are out to impress.

What you have to remember is you only get what you pay for meaning, if you have found a shower game for free then do not be surprised if no artistic measures have been taken to make the presentation look good. If you decide that these type of games are not for your baby shower event then you will find a wide variety of good quality ones in the shops. Baby shower games dont have to look good to give of laughter to all those who participate as long as they disperse pleasure that is all that matters. Think back to your childhood days and the games you enjoyed playing that left you with memories of hilarious moments. Bring back those moments and share them with your guests. Play the fool if need be. If it gets laughs then do it.

A fabulous site for all baby shower essentials http://www.little-babyonline.com. Babies need nurturing from an early age in leaing for themselves. Proven results for all ages at http://www.allaboutonlineeducation.com.

Internet Parental Controls: Why You Should Use Them

2009-06-25T04:52:00.000-07:00

Are you the parent of a teenager or a younger child who uses the inteet? If you are, is your computer and the inteet protected with parental controls? If not, this is something that you will want to do. Although many children are able to use the inteet without running into any problems, like online harassment or communicating with an online predator, are you really willing to take the chance? If not, you should use parental controls. One of the many reasons why you should set parental controls is because you can protect your child when they are online. Although parental controls come in a number of different formats, most allow you to block websites that you don't want your child to view. This means that if you don't want your child to use MySpace or other social networking websites you can easily block them. Another reason you should have working parental controls on your child's computer is because they are easy to install. Most parental controls are self-explanatory. This means that even if you don't know how to use a computer, you can still get protection set. For example, if your computer uses Inteet Explorer, all you need to do is open a new window and select "Inteet Options," from the heading of "Tools." There, you will find a tab that is labeled "Content," and here is where you can set your parental controls. In addition being easy to install, parental controls are also often easy to find. In fact, many are also free. If you use Inteet Explorer, as previously stated, parental controls are already built in. Another popular inteet browser is that of FireFox. Although FireFox does not have built-in parental controls, they do make it easy for to find add-ons, many of which are free. Even if you must purchase a parental control program for your child, you should know that they costs are more than worth it. Unfortunately, many parents do not install parental controls, as they believe it will limit their own use of the inteet. Just because you want your child to avoid websites that have crude language or violent themes, it doesn't necessarily mean that you don't want to view them. But, did you know that most inteet controls for parents can be used on shared family computers? This is because they let you set up a password to override any websites that you would like to access. Since parental controls are often free or very affordable, easy to install, and a great way to keep kids safe, you should use them. However, before you get a false sense of confidence, there are some important things that you should know. First, know that many teenagers are computer smart. Your teen may actually know how to get around parental controls, even if they don't know your password. That is why you will occasionally want to check the computer. If you block a website, like MySpace.com, occasionally check it to make sure that it is still blocked. Speaking of having a password, be sure not to give this password to your child. If they need to gain access to a website that was accidentally blocked, like for a school research project, you will want to use the password yourself to unblock the website, even just temporarily. As nice and as mature as your child is, there are some who go through great lengths to be able to socialize online with other inteet users. PPPPP Word Count 579

Important Car Seat Statistics

2009-06-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Installing a car seat correctly is the most important thing you can do to protect your child or newbo if you are in a crash. If you ever doubted how important a car seat is you�ll change your mind once you realize the shocking facts about automobile accidents. First and most importantly, most parents assume that their child is safe whether their car seat is installed correctly. This is FALSE! Other parents mistakenly believe they installed their seat correctly. Unfortunately this is often not the case.

If you use your car seat wrongly or install it improperly you might be in for a big surprise. Studies conducted by transportation authorities in Canada and the U.S. show that four of every ten children are not riding in their car seats correctly. This is because of either improper installation or use of a car seat. Why might this conce you?

Car seats save babies lives. Your baby's risk of death or injury increases tenfold when your car seat is improperly installed or misused. When used correctly, your baby's odds of surviving a bad wreck increase 71%. When you are in a car crash, the force your child bears is equal to the weight of the child times the speed before the crash. So if your baby for example, weights 20 pounds, and you are driving 40 mph when you crash, your baby will undergo 1600 pounds of force in just a second. That force can kill. Fortunately a properly installed car seat can help reduce the impact your child will experience in a crash.

Tips For Installing Your Car Seat Correctly The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently reported that up to 82 percent of infant car seats are installed wrongly, increasing the risk of severe injury or mortality if an accident occurs. What can you do to lessen the risk your child faces? One thing you can do is consider buying a car seat with a LATCH system. Automobiles made after 2002 feature LATCH systems that help you install a carseat more safely. Many new infant carriers come with LATCH compatible systems. Britax and Graco for example make car seats compatible with this system.

You should also consider having your installation checked out be a certified car seat safety inspector. You can do this at your local fire station. In fact, your better-off just calling. Many have routine car seat installation days where they will inspect and even install your child's car seat free. These technicians have at least 32 hours training in proper car seat installation. That's probably 32 more hours than you'll ever have to figure out how to safely install your baby�s car seat.

If you do need to install your seat on your own at least initially, here are some tips for doing it right:

1. First, check to make sure you have the right seat. An infant carrier for example, will only hold a baby up to 1-year old and 20 pounds. If your baby falls outside this range you'll need a different seat.

2. If possible always position your child's carseat in the rear of the car. This is the safest place for your baby. The middle of the backseat in fact is by far the safest place. You should never place your baby's car seat in the front passenger side if there is an air bag there you can't deactivate or uninstall.

3. Be sure before starting you read your car seat manufacturers user guide carefully and completely.

4. Once you install the seat, either using a LATCH system or traditional belt, check to make sure the seat doesn't move more than one inch in any direction.

5. If using a rear facing seat or infant carrier make sure the seat is angled properly to support your babies head.

Because it is so important, its worth saying again. If you have any questions or conces about installing your child�s car seat, have it checked out by a certified technician. This only takes a short amount of time and can save you loads of headaches when trying to install your baby�s carseat. When it comes to your child�s safety, you deserve the best! Remember that most seats are installed incorrectly the first time. By having someone check it over you can rest assured that your baby is safe while riding in your vehicle.

Ant Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as Baby Carriers, Baby Slings and Baby Car Seats

Online Child Protection Act

2009-06-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

It is said that a child has an innocent mind. Children lea from what they see. Hence it is important to show those things that will be beneficial to them. If an inspiring movie is showed, it will definitely motivate them. It is said that children should be prohibited from watching any adult content. A law called child protection act was initiated in this regard. Parents generally do not allow their children to watch any adult content. Today a variety of sources have become available to children that show obscene content. There are many websites that showcase content which is very harmful to children. Online child protection act was passed in United States in 1998. The law is made in order to protect minors from any kind of harmful sexual material that is available on the inteet. A minor in United States is a person who is less than 18 years old. Child online protection act has not come into effect as the law has been ruled out by federal courts. Many federal courts feel that the law violates the constitutional right of freedom of speech. That is why this law has not been yet implemented. The Supreme court also declared this act as unconstitutional. Although this law has not been passed, similar laws have come into effect in United States. The inteet contains a lot of unwanted material. There are various online sites that provide harmful sexual material. This harmful material if seen by children can have a negative effect on them. In order to make this material inaccessible to children, child protection act was passed. Inteet poography is distributed via websites and Usenet groups. The makers of child online protection act wanted to restrict the access of inteet poography. The makers wanted inteet poography to be inaccessible to children who are less than 18 years. Online child protection act limits commercial and affects providers that are based within United States. Makers of Online child protection act wanted all commercial distributors that provided harmful sexual material to restrict their websites from access to children. Sexual material that explicitly demonstrated sexual acts or showed nudity was considered extremely harmful for minors. According to this law obscenity was also considered harmful to children who are less than 18 years old. Although makers of child online protect act gave reasons for enforcing this law, the Supreme court found these reasons insufficient and hence the law could not be enforced. Some believe that online child online protection act should be implemented as we harm the children by showing any obscene content. The lawmakers of child protection act believed that restriction of access to websites that displayed harmful sexual material is beneficial for minors. They believed that some minors may commit crimes after watching this content. Minors are citizens of tomorrow. In order to make better citizens of tomorrow, they believed that this law should have been implemented. As inteet is growing rapidly it is essential to protect the kids from any harmful content. Hence it is important to enforce this child online protection act.

Be Prepared for Your New Baby A Checklist for New Parents to Be

2009-06-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

If you are expecting a new baby you have probably already been preparing for your little one for quite some time. Packing for the hospital and preparing your home for the new baby are the most important things you can do to make your transition from the hospital back home smoother. Here are some preparation tips that I found the most helpful before the birth of my daughter.

Pack for the Hospital

Use the checklist below as a guide when you pack your bags for your hospital stay. A checklist will ensure that you do not forget to bring something important to the hospital. Before you pack, check with the hospital to see what is provided to you to avoid over packing.

For Mommy:

( ) Socks

( ) Pajamas (a gown should be provided to you in the hospital but your own pajamas will make you feel more at home and comfortable)

( ) Mateity clothes to go home in (your tummy doesn't magically disappear after delivery-mateity clothes will be the most comfortable to travel home in)

( ) Books/magazines

( ) Contacts/Glasses

( ) Contact case/cleaning solution

( ) Toothbrush/toothpaste

( ) Shampoo/conditioner

( ) Hair brush and styling products

( ) Make up (for those after delivery visitors)

( ) Labor supplies (massage items, aromatherapy candles-whatever you plan on using to make your delivery easier)

( ) Purse/wallet

( ) Sanitary pads

( ) Birthing Plan

( ) Any hospital paperwork required for check in

( ) Other_______________________________________________

For Daddy:

( ) Games

( ) Books/Magazines

( ) Camera/Camcorder

( ) Change of clothes

( ) Pajamas

( ) Cell phone (or change for pay phones)

( ) Wallet

( ) Other_______________________________________________

For Baby:

Typically the hospital will provide you with diapers, wipes, clothes for the new baby. However, it is always a good idea to be over prepared rather than under prepared. Here are some suggestions:

( ) Coming home outfit

( ) Diapers (usually newbos will comfortably fit into preemie diapers for the first week or two after birth)

( ) Wipes

( ) Blankets (thickness should depend on the weather)

( ) Hand sanitizer (for visitors)

Also, be sure to have the baby's car seat secured in your vehicle. The hospital will not release you and your baby unless you have a car seat properly installed.

Prepare Meals in Advance

The best advice I received prior to having my daughter was to make sure that I had plenty of easy meals ready to go once we brought her home from the hospital. The easiest way to stock up on ready to serve meals is to over cook when preparing dinner before the baby is bo and then freeze the leftovers.

If you can find the time, spend a whole day cooking meals to freeze. If you would like recipes that you can use, check out free printable recipes at The Craft Cafe (http://www.recipes.thecraftcafe.com). There you will find recipes for lasagna, meatballs, mushroom barley soup and many other recipes that are perfect to freeze for a later time.

Clean/Prep Nursery

To ensure that your baby has a clean and healthy environment. Take a weekend to thoroughly clean your house. Be sure to dust fuiture, sanitize toys, clean the bathroom, vacuum, organize and perform any other cleaning that you will not have time to do once the baby arrives.

Amanda is a writer for The Craft Cafe (http://www.thecraftcafe.com). Find card making, scrapbooking, free printable projects, recipes and more at The Craft Cafe (http://www.thecraftcafe.com).

Pregnancyâs Beautiful Stretch Marks

2009-06-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

The minute you find out you are pregnant you know things are going to be changing, from your waist size to those little stretch marks that pop up. Stretch marks are exactly that, red or purple marks left in your skin because it has stretched. The most common areas for it to appear is the buttocks, thighs, stomach, breasts and even arms. 90 percent of all pregnant women will get them, whether they get a lot or a few depends on the body and how they are preventing them. There are a ton of lotions out there that claim to help prevent stretch marks, such as scar serum, cocoa butter or Maderma. Make sure your skin is always moist, this helps in stretching the skin and not tearing it. There are new discoveries every day, ask your doctor what he/she recommends. Try them out yourself first and see if they work for you. This isn't something you just put on one time during your pregnancy, you'll have to make this a daily effort in order for it to work. That's where most women fail, they just stop doing it. During your pregnancy try to eat healthy and stay in shape. This can help to keep off any access weight. The recommended weight gain for the average, 25-35 healthy pregnancy is 25-35 pounds. Make sure you drink plenty of water, staying hydrated helps keep the skin healthy. The moment your skin dries out you can begin getting stretch marks. If you've had one or more children your chances of getting more stretch marks will increase. Your skin has already been stretched out and you are about to do it again. Large babies and multiple babies can increase your chances of getting stretch marks too. Begin using preventing creams and lotions with vitamins A and E in them, as soon as you find out your are pregnant and try to lessen your chances of getting them. After the pregnancy if you have any stretch marks you may still have a few stretch marks, even after all the care you took. These do fade over time, so don't worry about the way you look. If they are unbearable to you and you've waited a while, you can choose to have a tummy tuck or laser removal. Make an appointment with a dermatologist to see what he/she has to tell you. You may discover that you can live with them after all. Besides caring for your skin daily and eating right, there isn't much you can do to prevent these beautiful pregnancy marks, however this doesn't mean you don't have to try. Take comfort in knowing that half the woman you know that have been pregnant probably have a mark or two, they may even have a little road map. Think about it as you've just been initiated into the gang of motherhood. No woman should ever feel ashamed of her stretch marks, they may not be the prettiest thing in the world but they do represent one thing…your child. Remember that the next time you are getting disgusted by them.

Breastfeeding Is About More Than Food

2009-06-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

While the breastfeeding process exists to nourish a newbo and to provide everything that it needs to grow, breastfeeding is much more than food for a baby. The entire breastfeeding process provides significant benefits for both the baby and the mother.

1. Breast Milk Is A Living Substance

Babies do not have a fully functioning immune system until they are one year old. For the first year of life, a breastfeeding mother actually provides the immune response for a baby who is exposed to a cold or flu. If a baby were to suffer a cold, his mother would immediately start to increase her white blood cell production to counteract the bacteria or virus whether or not she experiences the baby�s symptoms. The baby would get these doses of immunity through breast milk. Breast milk contains many white blood cells (the blood cells that fight bacteria, viruses and parasites) and because of them, breast milk can actually sit on a countertop for 8 hours and be perfectly safe to drink.

2. Breastfeeding Improves Health

The proteins, carbohydrates and fatty acids in breast milk provide everything that a baby needs to grow strong bones, muscles and tissues. All of these components of breast milk exist in perfect proportion to a growing baby�s needs. Breast milk proteins are easily digested and breastfed babies feed often to build up their mother�s milk supply. The fatty acids found in breast milk help to support the growth of the baby�s brain and nervous system. The carbohydrates (or sugars) found in breast milk provide energy for the baby to play and interact with her world.

Breastfeeding provides great health benefits for the mother after birth, it helps to contract the uterus back to its pre-pregnant state. Mothers who breastfeed for longer periods of time experience less breast or uterine cancer later on in life.

3. Breastfeeding Promotes The Bonding and Attachment Process.

The hormone oxytocin stimulates the let down reflex when a baby starts to breastfeed; however, the role of oxytocin is not just for breastfeeding. In fact, oxytocin is called the hormone of love. Our bodies release high doses of oxytocin during the infatuation stage of love which creates the wonderful high that we experience when we first fall for someone. Breastfeeding creates this same feeling of infatuation every time a mother breastfeeds her baby. These continual doses of oxytocin enhance the bonding and attachment process to securely attach the mother/baby pair.

A Critical Period to Establish Breastfeeding

We all know that breast milk is best for babies. However, there is a vulnerable time for both the mother and the baby for the first month after birth as they lea to breastfeed. Some babies lea easily, others take their time. If a baby is continually fussy during this process a new mother can interpret the fussiness to mean that the baby has a specific problem with her, and that can influence her decision whether or not to keep trying.

With a calmer baby, there is a greater chance that the mother will continue to breastfeed, which helps to create a more bonded mother and infant and a relatively peaceful home life. With the reduction of crying and fussiness, the relationship between the mother and father is less strained in the transitional year to becoming a family, and that helps to bond the family unit more easily.

The Reason Behind The Baby�s Crying

When a baby fusses or cries, especially in the evening, the problem is usually that the baby is experiencing an adverse reaction to something that the mother is eating. If a breastfeeding mother can alter her diet on a short-term basis, the baby usually calms down and the breastfeeding process becomes easier for both mother and baby.

The main food source that a breastfeeding mother eats that causes babies discomfort are cow�s milk proteins. Small amounts of cow�s milk proteins end up in breast milk and can cause the baby to experience either food hypersensitivities or food intolerances. The resulting symptoms are gas, bloating, discomfort and crying. (Sound familiar?)

There are other foods that consistently cause a baby to experience discomfort. For more information, please visit Dr. Melanie�s website.

About the Author:

Dr. Melanie Beingessner is a chiropractor, a breastfeeding counsellor, an infant massage instructor and the mother of three.

She is the author of The Calm Baby Cookbook and offers additional information about pregnancy and breastfeeding on her website: http://www.drmelaniebee.com

Interrupt your Child's Interruption Habit

2009-06-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Trying to teach your child not to interrupt can sometimes be an exercise in frustration. Telling them there's a time to interrupt (in case of a fire) and a time to not interrupt (boredom) isn't enough. But putting these principles into practice is easier said than done, especially for a very verbal or high-energy kid. That's why now is a good time to revisit some basic lessons about good manners and teaching your child to wait their tu to speak. First of all, set a reasonable expectation. School-aged children have a difficult time holding their thoughts for more than a few minutes. Indicate to her as best as you can that you'll be with them as soon as possible and then stay true to your word. Develop some ideas for them to occupy themselves with while you're on the phone or otherwise unavailable. Keep a box full of puzzles, crayons, colorful markers or other quiet toys nearby that they can only use when you have to make a call. Set snacks and drinks on an accessible level so they don't have to interrupt you for help. When you need to make a call or have an important conversation with a visitor, head off trouble by saying you're about to phone someone or have a conversation and estimate how long you expect to talk. Ask them if they need anything before you make your call or have your conversation with your company. Then do your best to adhere to that time schedule, and excuse yourself from the conversation long enough to check on them. Let them know you'll be a bit longer if that's the case and see if they need anything before retuing to your conversation. Reading is a great tool to teach manners. Find several books on the subject then read them together. Discuss afterwards what your child leaed from the story and how they'll handle a similar situation in their life the next time it occurs. And as always, children lea what they live. Your child is very unlikely to lea not to interrupt if they hears you, your spouse, or their siblings constantly interrupting each other. Your actions have a strong influence on your child, so be a good example and ask permission to speak before speaking, and apologize when you inadvertently interrupt.

How to Pick the Best Name for Your Baby

2009-06-22T21:57:00.000-07:00

Expectant parents spend hours preparing the nursery, poring over pregnancy and delivery books and going to childbirth classes. Yet surprisingly, many decide their child�s given name within a matter of minutes, often spending more time selecting the right car seat or stroller.

What should parents-to-be consider when choosing a baby name? All About Baby, a personalized children�s products company that has seen all types of name combinations, has come up with helpful tips to make the process interesting, fun and successful.

First, start with the experts. The choices today are staggering with more than 50,000 common names and spelling variations. Begin with some basic homework by buying a few baby-name books or a baby-name software program. Check online for the best buys.

You can also use the inteet by tapping into dozens of inteet sites that list popular baby names, some websites even offer customized search programs, complete with the meaning and origin of the names.

Somewhere during the middle of your pregnancy, start jotting down some of your favorite selections.

Next, begin mixing and matching the first and middle names along with the baby�s last name to see how you like various combinations. How do the names sound together? How do they look on paper? This is the time to ask others for their opinion, so keep an open mind and have a little fun considering a wide range of names for your little one.

At the same time, keep in mind that names often bring up a myriad of emotions, and sometimes parents can have very different reactions to their partner�s favorite choices. So we advise being respectful of your partner's feelings.

Trendy names are really in fashion -- especially with celebrities. However, there is always something to be said for the old standards that have endured the test of time. For instance, Bambi Nevada might seem like a cool choice today, but consider what is the best selection for an entire lifetime. What will this name look like decades later on a business card?

Along these same lines are exotic spellings and invented names, which are also in wide use today. Remember that kids can sometimes be cruel and a highly unusual name could be fodder for playground teasing.

As an adult, just think how many times during an average week you give and spell your name. Do you want to give your child a name that he or she could really resent later?

If you absolutely love a name, but can�t tolerate the nickname that often goes with it, then think twice.

For example, I have a friend who named her son Michael, even though she hates the nickname, �Mikey�. Now the mom spends far too much time and energy correcting kids, teachers and other parents who refer to him by the dreaded nickname. It�s just not worth it.

Since ultrasound tests are not always interpreted correctly, All About Baby recommends choosing names for both sexes. Even when you think the gender is a certainty, it is still a good idea to have a back up name. Why? Sometimes the name that seemed perfect during your pregnancy just isn�t the right match when the new baby finally arrives.

This actually happened to another mom that I know, who was having her second son, a boy. They leaed the sex of the baby during pregnancy and planned for months to name their new son, Cameron Michael.

However, when I visited their home a few days after the baby's birth, I leaed the parents had named him Matthew John. His mother�s explanation was that after his birth, they all realized �he just didn�t look like a Cameron.' And you know, she was right, he looked like a Matthew John!

Everyone seems to have an opinion when it comes to baby names, and family members can be especially outspoken. While it�s fun to hear suggestions, especially during the first part of your name search, keep in mind that ultimately your child�s name is your decision. It is impossible to make everyone happy.

Naming your infant is one of the most important tasks you will ever undertake. A person�s name is truly a lifetime gift, and it helps define your child -- within the family, to friends, at school and to the outside world. If you consider the options carefully and select with love, you really can�t go wrong.

For a complete list of 20 Helpful Baby-Naming Tips as well as a wide variety of other interesting child-related content, visit http://www.allbaby.com.

About The Author

Nancy Wurtzel is the owner and founder of All About Baby, an ecommerce site located at http://www.allbaby.com. All About Baby specializes in personalized and memorable gifts for children as well as interesting and helpful child-related site content. Ms. Wurtzel has over 20 years of marketing and communications experience. She consults with small businesses seeking to enter the marketplace or grow their existing ecommerce business.

For a complete list of 20 Helpful Baby-Naming Tips as well as a wide variety of other interesting child-related content, visit http://www.allbaby.com.

ancy@allbaby.com

Starting Solid Foods

2009-06-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

Breast milk is all your baby will need until at least 4 months of age. There does come a time, when breast milk will no longer supply all of your baby's nutrition needs. Full term babies will start to require iron from other sources by 6 - 9 months of age. Some babies that aren't started on solid foods by the age of 9 - 12 months may have a great level of difficulty accepting solid foods. It's actually a developmental milestone when your child starts solid foods - as he is now growing up. When to start The ideal time to begin solid foods is when the baby shows interest in starting. Some babies will show interest in solid food when it's on their parents' plates, as early as 4 months of age. By 5 - 6 months, most babies will reach out and try to grab the food. When the baby starts to reach for food, it's normally the time to go ahead and give him some. Sometimes, it may be a better idea to start food earlier. When a baby seems to get hungry or once weight gain isn't continuing at the desired rate, it may be good to start solid foods as early as 3 months. It may be possible however, to continue breast feeding alone and have the baby less hungry or growing more rapidly. Breast fed babies will digest solid foods better and earlier than artificially fed babies because the breast milk will contain enzymes which help to digest fats, proteins, and starch. Breast fed babies will also have had a variety of different tastes in their life, since the flavors of many foods the mother eats will pass into her milk. Introducing solid foods When the baby begins to take solid foods at the age of 5 - 6 months, there is very little difference what he starts will or what order it is introduced. You should however, avoid spicy foods or highly allergenic foods at first, although if your baby reaches for the potato on your plate, you should let him have it if it isn't too hot. Offer your baby the foods that he seems to be interested in. Allow your baby to enjoy the food and don't worry too much about how much he takes at first, as much of it may end up on the floor or in his hair anyhow. The easiest way to get iron for your baby at 5 - 6 months of age is by giving him meat. Cereal for infants has iron, although it is poorly absorbed and may cause your baby to get constipated. (word count 441) PPPPP

Healthy Baby Food When is the Best Time to Start Consuming Juice

2009-06-21T23:45:00.000-07:00

Mother's milk is the best choice for healthy baby food. However, there will be a time when the baby needs much more nutrients as they grow up and mother's milk can not accomplish it anymore. This will be the time your baby needs some soft food from cereal, fruits or vegetables.

As Dr. Beard Jensen said in his Juicing Therapy book that the best time for your baby to start consuming juice as healthy baby food is when their weight has been two times heavier or more compare to their bo-weight, that is about 7 kilograms. At this point, babies are able to consume up to 64 pounds of bottle milk.

Some doctors have some different opinions about this idea, that is when babies attain the age of six months or at any other time when babies can hold their own plastic straw cup.

Apple juice can be the first choice for your healthy baby food after mother's milk, besides, you can choose one between white grape or pier juice. Remember that home made juice is the best. Strain the juice well and carefully to ensure your baby does not take the juice waste. Mix the juice with purified water in 1:1 portion.

You can also add one teaspoon of green leafy vegetable juice to your baby's milk bottle once in two days. Spinach, broccoli or parsley are perfect healthy baby food, they are source of Ferrum (which milk alone can not accomplish), electrolyte and chlorophyll. Anemia case in babies who are merely feed more milk and less soft solid food is not impossible thing.

Therefore, this green vegetable juice is one thing you have to pay a lot of attention, one teaspoon only not more, you have to consider its high concentrate, too.

It is important to notice that, if your baby react to some certain juice by diarrhea or vomiting, leave and wait for some another one-month and then try again. If the problem still persist, you better talk to your doctor.

As your baby growing up and they are getting more and more body weight, reduce the water content in their juice gradually so that finally they will consume the wholly juice.

For discovering more facts about vegetable juice besides as healthy baby food visit http://www.vegetable-recipes-by-cooking-method.com/juicing-vegetable.html/

For more health articles related to vegetable cooking, visit http://www.vegetable-recipes-by-cooking-method.com/health-article.html/

Chart your Child's Accomplishments with a Chore Chart

2009-06-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

It can be very frustrating to ask your child over and over again to complete their chores without them ever getting done. If this describes your house to a tee, consider designing a chore chart. Chores might include taking out the garbage, doing the dishes, cleaning their room, yard work or putting laundry in the laundry room. Each chore has to be done just once or twice a week. Anything more is unrealistic. After your child completes each chore, they can put a check mark on the chore chart. At the end of each week, it's very inspiring for both parent and child to look at the chore chart and easily see that each designated job was completed. Just like our 'to do' lists, your child will find great satisfaction in being able to check off each chore as it's completed and take pride knowing they accomplished a set task or list of tasks. Once you've sat down with your child and discussed and designed a chore chart, it's time to discuss the rewards for accomplishing each task listed. Perhaps at your home you decide you will give a set sum for each task accomplished. If you should decide to grant your child some sort of monetary allowance, make sure it's age appropriate and granted on a regular basis. A good rule of thumb is 50 cents per year of age. So your 8 year old child would ea $4.00 per week if each chore on the list has been completed. If it has not been, they do not receive their allowance. This is a great opportunity for you to teach your children the value of both eaing and saving money, and also giving back. Perhaps the child can divide their allowance into thirds: 1/3 to spend, 1/3 to save, and 1/3 to use to help those less fortunate than themselves. You might also want to consider designing a 'bank book' for each portion of the allowance and tuck each into three separate coffee cans or money jars, and that way you and your child will be able to keep track of how much has been saved, how much has been spent, and how much of their allowance has gone to help someone else. Should you decide to use non-monetary incentives as chores payment, be sure you set clear parameters for your child. Be sure they understand that two hours each weekend of their favorite video game or going to see a movie with mom or dad is only eaed by completing the chore list successfully each week. You might want to consider writing these on a slip of paper as 'currency' for the child to keep in their 'privilege bank' and they can cash it in with you when they'd like. Regardless of the method you choose, keep in mind this can be a valuable tool for both you and your child.

Human Milk Bank Donor Helps Premature and Sick Infants and Children

2009-06-21T19:00:00.001-07:00

Lisa Fozo (37), a Fair Oaks resident, wanted to breastfeed so much that when her two sons didn�t latch on, she pumped her own milk and bottle fed it to them. With her first child, Alex, (5) she had an excess of milk and had to discard it. But when she had her second child, Kyle, (15 months) Mercy Hospital of Folsom referred her to Karen Evon, Inteational Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Evon is also part owner of Mateal Expressions in Folsom, a mateity and breastfeeding specialty store. Evon advised Lisa to donate her surplus milk to the Mother�s Milk Bank in San Jose, Califoia.

The Mother�s Milk Bank is the only one of its kind on the West Coast. It ships milk within Califoia, outside of the state, and even occasionally to foreign countries. In the U.S there are six other milk banks: Newark, Delaware; Columbus, Ohio; Denver, Colorado; Fort Worth, Texas; Austin, Texas; and Raleigh, North Carolina. The milk banks are overseen by The Human Milk Banking Association of North America. Milk banks provide human milk for premature and ill infants and children under a doctor�s prescription.

Lisa donated 250 ounces to the Mother�s Milk Bank after having Kyle. �I wish I had known with my first child so I could have helped more babies, �says Lisa. Evon says, �Mothers who have a surplus of milk may have a larger storage capacity which usually has nothing to do with breast size.� Lisa produced 16 ounces of milk in three hours. And in the moing, she could pump 32 ounces in 15 minutes.

Lisa says that her husband Ed was the one who first encouraged her to nurse. He saw how healthy his sister-in-law�s children were on human milk, so when Lisa became pregnant, he said �I hope you�ll breastfeed.�

That�s easy to say, but Ed wasn�t a passive observer. He bottle fed his infants the breast milk on weekends while Lisa pumped the milk. He also attended breastfeeding classes with her.

But before Lisa could donate the milk, she had to undergo a screening process: Prospective milk donors must meet certain criteria before donating milk. They must be lactating and submit to tests for Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, HIV 1 and 2, human T cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) 1 and 2, and Ruebella titer. All viral and bacterial studies must be negative, and a history of systemic diseases such as leprosy and cancer will disqualify prospective donors.

Donors may not smoke, consume alcohol, or take medications or herbal supplements at the time of donation, with the exception of drugs, such as insulin, Syn-Thyroid, and progestin-only birth control pills or injections. After donors pass the health evaluation, they will lea how to express milk with a pump, label glass bottles, freeze the milk and store it in the freezer.

Diana Clarke is a teacher and health educator. Her articles have appeared in newspapers and magazines, such as the San Jose Mercury News, Listen Magazine and the World of English.

You Can't Spoil a Child through Love

2009-06-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

Though we all worry about spoiling our child, rest assured that you cannot spoil your child with love. Love doesn't spoil children. Love is imperative to a child's healthy development, and it's just not possible to love your child too much. They need caring adults to spend time with them, play with them, teach them, protect them, and enjoy life with them. It's a parent's job to provide love, safety and encouragement. The process of growing up provides children with lots of challenges. Try to listen openly and understand their situation and communicate honestly with them when they have difficulties and letdowns in their life. Set appropriate limits with your child and then adhere to them. Establishing limits with your child gives them a sense of safety and security. Sometimes parents do not set limits because they don't want to fight with their children. They don't want to cause bad feelings. They may beg a child to comply. Or they may make a rule and fail to enforce it. They may nag without ever enforcing the rules. None of these helps children. When your child fails to adhere or comply with the boundaries you've set for them, be firm yet kind in your response. This lets them know that you're serious about the rule but dedicated to helping and loving them. Bear in mind though that each child is different and what works for one child may not work for another. For example, one child may respond well to the direct approach of telling them a specific time to be home, where another child may need a gentle reminder that it's now time to come home. Develop a firm but kind manner of making and enforcing your household's rules and expectations. There's no need to fear our children, and there should be no need to instill a sense of fear in our children in order to get them to comply.

Breastfeeding only the best for your baby

2009-06-21T00:46:00.001-07:00

A lot has been written about the importance of eating a healthy, balanced diet. There has been quite a debate in the press, as of late, regarding the importance of a healthy diet in relation to breast cancer prevention. Most would agree that maintaining a healthy diet is a good idea, regardless of the motivation. As we are discussing breast cancer, let's explore some of the food that has been proven assist with breast cancer prevention.

Foods that are rich in folate or folic acid are extremely beneficial. This is a B-complex vitamin that is abundant is foods such as spinach, romaine lettuce, beans, peas, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts. It can also be found in many cereals, pastas, and breads. Research has shown that mutations in DNA are more likely to occur when an individual has a deficiency of folate or folic acid.

Vitamin D has also shown great promise in the defense against cancer. It is a vitamin that assists in the absorption of calcium, which is vital for the development of strong teeth and bones. A recent report from the American Association of Cancer Research states that the risk of developing breast cancer can be reduced by over 50% with the assistance of Vitamin D. There are various food-based sources of Vitamin D, including milk, eggs, cod, salmon, and shrimp. It is also supplied in abundance by the Sun. Ten minutes per day in the sun, without sunscreen and with 40% of your body exposed, can produce as much as 5000IU of Vitamin D.

Tea has been praised for centuries for its healing capabilities, and mode scientists have started to confirm what our ancestors first observed. Tea is rich in flavonoids, which are known to have strong anti-oxidant properties. Kaempferol, one type of flavonoid, has shown protective effects against cancer. Research continues in this exciting area, but the general consensus is that 4 cups of tea per day can have lasting benefits for your health.

Curcumin has also shown great promise in the prevention of cancer. It is the active ingredient in Tumeric, a type of curry spice. Research has been conducted for decades now, and it would appear that Curcumin has extremely powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor properties. It has also been shown to interfere with cell-signaling pathways, which works to suppress the transformation and proliferation of cancerous cells. There are some wonderful Indian restaurants out there, so go out and treat yourself to a healthy curry dinner.

Research in these areas continues at an astounding pace, but for many people it is too late for prevention. At times it may seem that we are losing the battle against cancer, but there is still hope. Advances in research and treatment are being made each and every day. So continue to support your local cancer research facilities and organizations, and have faith that a cure for this horrible disease will one day be found. Until such time, give some thought to your diet. It could save your life.

Kristen Kelly is a strong advocate of living a healthy lifestyle. When she is not researching the latest women's health issues, she writes for thebreastsite.com � a wonderfully informative website dedicated to educating people about breast health, breastfeeding, breast cancer detection and more.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Pneumonia in Children

2009-06-21T00:42:00.000-07:00

Pneumonia is the infection of the either one lung or both. When both the lungs get infected it is known as double pneumonia. When the pneumonia is mild enough that the visit to the doctor can be avoided and the child can carry out daily activities normally, it is known as walking pneumonia. The lungs are an important part of the respiratory system. The air which is breathed in contains oxygen, which is filtered by the lungs. This oxygen then is carried around the body with the help of blood which is passed from the breathing tubes by the alveoli. Capillaries or the minute blood vessels are surrounded by small air sacs known as alveoli. There are over six hundred million alveoli in the human body. The air which is taken in is supplied to the alveoli; the oxygen extracted from the air is dissolved in the blood. Then it is the job of the red blood cells to distribute the oxygen to all the body parts. Oxygen is vital in the proper functioning of the human body and insufficient supply of oxygen can damage the organs and sometimes can be life threatening. This functioning is disturbed when the lungs get infected by pneumonia. Pneumonia does not allow the lungs to function properly, because the infection produces fluid which obstructs the alveoli. In tu the oxygen does not penetrate deep inside the lungs and lesser oxygen is supplied to the blood. The breathing is affected and the condition worsens when both the lungs get infected with pneumonia. People of all ages from infants to old could get affected with pneumonia. It is a myth among people that getting wet makes the person catch pneumonia. But it is actually the virus or the bacteria which causes the infection. When a person infected with flu or cold faces a deterioration in his/her condition, he/she can be infected with pneumonia. This happens because the irritation caused by the flu or cold helps the pneumonia germs to get into the lungs easily and move around to spread the infection. The virus or bacteria which cause pneumonia can cause damages, whose severity can depend on the health of the child. If the infection is caused by bacteria, the child will get sick very soon and can get high temperature fever accompanied with chills. Pneumonia caused by virus develops very slowly and it takes longer time to go away. The child can also experiences cough, chest pain, headache, and or muscle ache. It can also make it difficult to breath, so the child will start to breath faster which may make him cough out gloppy mucus. The child would have to totally abstain from eating. When given the right treatment, the child can recover fully. The doctor will first examine the heartbeat and breathing with the help of the stethoscope. The stethoscope also helps to check the lungs, the sounds made by the lungs help to determine if it contains any fluids. Sounds such as crackling or bubbling are indications of pneumonia. Chest X-ray will be taken too. White patchy area will show fluid buildup. By looking at the X-ray, the doctor can also determine whether the infection is caused by bacteria or virus. If it is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed. And if it is difficult for the child to swallow the medicine or to retain it inside, he/she will be injected with IV fluid. And if virus is responsible for the infection, antibiotics won't work. Fever reducers, along with cough medicine, will be given in this case. The medicines will be of no use, if the child doesn't take adequate rest and plenty of liquids. Shots can be taken to prevent pneumonia. These series of shots are called pneumococcal. Regular flu shots can also prove helpful, especially for kids who have asthma or other kinds of lung infection. Rest and sleep also strengthens the immune system. Washing hands regularly can keep harmful germs at bay. PPPPP Word Count 666

Breastfeeding The Best Option For Your Baby

2009-06-20T02:09:00.000-07:00

If you have a baby, breastfeeding is definitely the best way to feed. It has numerous advantages over bottle feeding and hardly any disadvantages. Over 1 million babies die each year as a result of being fed formula!

Breast milk provides the perfect nutrients that your baby needs and even protects them from illnesses. Studies have found that infants who were breast fed have much lower rates of ear infections, rashes, diarrhea, allergies, hospital admissions and other medical problems than babies that were fed formula.

Infant formula is made from cow's milk but the problem with this is that it contains a different type of protein than human milk does and also doesn't contain the right nutrients that babies need. Human infants have trouble digesting this protein and as a result they are usually much fatter than breast fed babies. Human milk has at least 100 ingredients that aren't found in formula.

When a mother breastfeeds her child, her antibodies are also transferred to the baby. This protects the baby from diseases and illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchitis, botulism, influenza, staphylococcal infections, measles and ear infections. Around eighty percent of the cells in breast milk are cells that kill viruses, bacteria and fungi!

Unlike bottle feeding, breastfeeding makes the mother cuddle her baby closely numerous times each day. The infant will get a sense of security from this and will form a better attachment with the mother. Nursing is a source of comfort and warmth to a baby.

Also, if you breastfeed, you won't need to buy expensive formulas. When your baby starts crying you won't have to go warm up a bottle because the food is ready all the time. Breastfeeding even uses up calories in the mother which makes it much easier to lose weight after pregnancy.

There are some cases in which you should not breastfeed. If you are HIV positive, you should not nurse your baby because this virus can pass through the milk. Some other illnesses that can be transmitted to your baby are hepatitis, herpes and beta streptococcus infections. If you have one of these illnesses talk to your doctor before breastfeeding.

If you are going to breastfeed, you should be aware that is can be painful when you first start doing it. Also, your nipples may get sore, cracked, or engorged. You will need to nurse regularly or your breasts will get very uncomfortable because of being so full. You will be much more tied to your baby than a mother that feeds formula.

Once you have your baby, you should breastfeed as soon as possible, preferably within an hour of delivery. You won't be producing milk yet then but you will have colostrums which is a fluid that contains antibodies to diseases. Newbo babies need to be nursed at least every two hours. Once they get older they will settle into a more regular schedule.

If you are a new parent you will certainly want to give your baby the best you can. Breast milk is how you can do this. It contains everything your baby needs and will make him much happier and healthier.

Michael Russell Your Independent Baby and Toddler guide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

The Purpose of Kindergarten

2009-06-20T02:06:00.000-07:00

It's pretty common when you are starting to prepare your preschool child for that first day of kindergarten for her to ask you, probably with tears in her eyes, "But Daddy, why do I have to go?" And while you have your parent answers to give her and you will obviously refocus her attention on how fun it will be and how it will be her next step toward "being a big girl", you might ask yourself that question as well. It's important that dad and mom have a firm idea of what kindergarten is all about as well so you can do a good job of preparing your little one for this big step in life. It is a mistake to see kindergarten as a huge academic leap into the future. When parents pour so much energy into preparing their children to excel academically before heading off to kindergarten, they miss the point of this important year of school. Moreover, by "prepping" the child for school as though this first year was going to be their freshman year at MIT, you create even more stress and anxiety because the child begins to think they are going to walk into a situation of high stress. The result is the child goes off to kindergarten already stressed and far more anxious than is justified for this first step out of the home. Now this does not mean that preschool is not a good idea. Not only does preschool give the child an early love of leaing, it is also an excellent way to help your child begin to acclimate to the idea of going to school out of the home. And leaing to go somewhere else and become part of an organized curriculum is a big purpose of kindergarten. So preschool gently starts that transition both academically and emotionally. To a very large extent, the purpose of kindergarten is to help young children begin that transition to a structured environment of school. If by the end of this important first year, kindergarten children come to school happily, know how to work with a schedule, sit at desks, listen to speakers, write things down and take them home and then bring them back again the next day and walk through the structured schedule of a normal school day, that is a huge step forward in preparing your child for school life that will begin in first grade. Yes there is a curriculum in kindergarten and simple lessons are taught. Very often grades are not even kept or a child is given a good or passing grade just for being in class, participating in the group activity and trying to work with the program. The leaing objectives that any kindergarten teacher will have for this year of life with these first year students is heavily slanted toward behavioral and social goals and not as heavy on academics. The kindergarten teacher is a much different kind of teacher than any others your child will meet in his or her academic career. You will find your child's kindergarten teacher to be very interested in each child as an individual and in helping your child make that transition away from living at home every hour of the day and toward using a significant part of their day at school. Commonly kindergarten teachers have special training in child psychology and are as much counselors and guides as they are teachers of lessons from books. Get to know the teacher of your child's kindergarten class. You will find she is eager to know all she can about your child to achieve her goal of preparing each kindergartner for the more academic years ahead. And if you are in sync with those goals, you can reinforce the experience your child is having with encouragement and interest at home. And working as a team, you and the teacher will help your child have a wonderful and successful first year in school. PPPPP Word Count 669

Breast Pumps and Hygiene

2009-06-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

Though breast pumps are used quite commonly, it is suggested to consult a doctor regarding a prescription for a breast pump rental or purchase. Though most insurance companies will reimburse either partially or fully for rental costs or for the purchase of a retail hospital grade breast pump, it depends upon the coverage provided by the insurance company for medical equipment.

There are a few important things to consider while using a rented hospital grade pump. First, other patients and employees have used the pump, since it belongs to a hospital. Hence, it is a multiple user medical device. The mothers must use a personal kit that has to be connected to the pump for the collection of the milk. These kits contain one or two breast flanges, container, tubing and connector. Using a personal kit offers protection as it prevents cross-contamination. Another way to prevent contamination is to prevent the breast milk and its moisture from flowing back through the tubing into the pump itself.

All the firms that manufacture, repackage, re-label, and/or import medical devices are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). All these medical devices are classified into Class I, II and III. Since breast pumps are considered Class II devices, they have to follow the quality control system that is the requirement of all Class II devices. They have to undergo a quality control check for any malfunctions, injury, or likely death that might occur by the product�s usage.

To avoid cross-contamination, all the pumps must carry a label on top indicating that a personal kit ought to be used by the mothers with that particular type of breast pump. As also, a descriptive literature providing all the requisite information regarding cross-contamination must be provided along with the medical device.

Breast Pumps provides detailed information about breast pumps, breast pump reviews, and more. Breast Pumps is affiliated with Disposable Diapers.

Child Protection Services

2009-06-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

Child Protection Services is an agency that is run by the govement and these services are provided in numerous state of America. This agency provides services against child neglect and abuse. The Child Protection Services are also named as "Department of Social Services" or just "Social Services". The primary functions of the CPS agencies are receiving the child ill-treatment reports. This rule in mandatory in many of the states of America. After the report is filed, it undergoes the screening test to check the authenticity of the filed case. If the case is accepted then the Child Protection Services investigate the case and a cross checking is done with the family members and their nearest contacts. If all these test reports are positive then the family of the child is provided, on request, with the needed help to prevent any further ill-treatment and abuse of the child. However, quite often it is observed that the child is ill- treated in its own house, then in such cases, the Child Protection Services make arrangements for the safety of the child outside his/her house. This decision is made through the court decisions or with the family's consent. The case is taken further with the settling down the of issues and the family members of such children are requested to report at the Child Protection Services bureau for routine follow-up so as to avoid any further harm to the children. Throughout this process of investigation the Child Protection Services focus on the child's safety, steps to reduce the risk of ill-treatment and achieve the goals and tasks while working on the case and steps towards meeting the expectations of the child and the family people of the child affected by the ill-treatment. The closure of the case is decided after the Child Protection Services are convinced about the child's safety and that the further chances of ill-treatment have reduced or completely abolished. These agencies also take a note of the family's capacity to meet the further development of the child and that if they can take this responsibility. The reporters who report this case to the CPS should gather all the related information regarding the nature, type or types of ill-treatments, severity, place where it occurred and the chronicity of the ill-treatment. The types of treatments refer to the emotional abuse, sexual abuse and physical abuse etc. The most vital information in such cases is the severity of the ill-treatment and the reporters in these cases are expected to report all the primary information that is required to proceed further with such cases. Minute details like the place of injury on the body of child also need to be reported in case of physical abuse. The chronicity of the ill-treatment is the detailed information regarding the previous happenings of negligence or the abuse of the child. The duration of the ill-treatment that the child has been facing or going through, and the intensity and the frequency of the ill-treatment etc. The further investigation is done with the help of the child's family's consent to help solve the case better.

Baby Shower Poems Commotion Of Emotions

2009-06-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

We all have a hidden talent and should yours be poetry then you are off to a great start in making up your own baby shower poems. If you enjoy poetry and love to write in verse then why not consider helping other hosts who may struggle with this side of things by writing their baby shower poems. Poetry is a fabulous way to communicate to portray feelings and emotions. An injection of the right words incorporated from momentous moments jotted down on a piece of paper can mean so much at a baby shower.

Invitation Poems

Poems written about babies and placed onto baby shower invitations can only add pleasure to the receiver of the invite Customize the invitation by using verse to detail out what the party is all about. Define in those words why they were asked to attend.

Poem of Thanks

Gratitude and thank you poems are a fine and artistic way of showing love and happiness for the future baby on the way. Occasions like this can entail many a different way of thanking a person, word changes e.g. thank you for attending, thanks for being the host, thanks to the future mom and dad for giving us reason to join in this celebration of why this baby shower is taking place.

Baby shower thank you cards are normally sent to the giver of a gift. Say your thank you in rhyme, mention how honoured the baby is to have a guardian as caring as them. Any grateful words with meaning are all that is needed to go on the thank you card.

Most people have no problem in expressing and conversing this way, but if you feel that baby shower poems are out of your league then call someone into help. Professionals can actually take the words from your mouth and jumble them around to say what it is you want to say and really feel. Use Poems to start and end the baby shower party. Because poetry and themes go well together add a line of poetry onto the baby shower cake? Tell it how it is in the sweet tasting pipe creamed icing on the cake, words like how you wait in anticipation for the future of your newbo.

Baby Shower Favors

Why not incorporate poetry on or into your baby shower favors. Baby shower poems can say so much. Verse and emotions work well together but if you find it hard to put your heartfelt feeling in rhyme then a humorous approach will definitely be a hit causing commotion in the laughter department.

A fabulous site for all baby shower essentials http://www.cool-baby.info Babies need nurturing from an early age in leaing for themselves. Proven results for all ages at http://www.allaboutonlineeducation.com

Fun Ways to Announce Your Pregnancy

2009-06-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

Whether you just found out you're pregnant or you've known for a few months, announcing your pregnancy to family and friends can be a lot of fun. Some may want to wait until a certain time during their pregnancy, while others want to call everyone immediately after finding out themselves. Telling The Father Have a romantic dinner for two with candle lights, it may be your last time for a while, between moing sickness and raising your little one. Serve up baby carrots, baby back ribs and anything else you can think as baby. At the end, pour apple juice instead of wine and hand him a present. Inside you can have a tiny baby bib that says, "I heart My Daddy" or a pair of baby booties. If you can't tell the father right away because he's away on business, or deployed try sending him a care package. Inside the box place a few baby items, everything in blue and pink and a baby naming book in the center. Place a note on top of the book with, "I need a name soon, I'll be here by June." Or whenever the baby is due. You can also see how long it takes him to figure it out. Go to the dollar store and pick up a bunch of small baby items, a bib, rattle, bottle, booties, etc. For a week, leave an item laying around the house where he is bound to find them. At the end of the week if he hasn't figured it out yet, prepare the big gift. Have a large teddy bear sitting at the dinner table in the seat beside him, make sure there is a bib wrapped around him and maybe a sign that says Hi Daddy. Telling Family and Friends Show up to a family gathering wearing a shirt that announces your state. These days there are a ton of shirts out there with clever sayings, "Baby on Board," "A Bun in the Oven," or something related to the pregnancy. The moment you walk in or take off your jacket everyone will figure it out without you ever having to say a word. Now, get ready for the tears and excitement. You'll be answering a ton of questions. If you already have children you may want to call the grandparents up and tell them that the next Christmas they may want to add one more to the list. If this is the first grandchild, you may want to get a bracelet link for your mom that reads, "#1 Grandma" or grandparent t-shirts. This will not only be a great present for them but something they will cherish and love forever. No matter when you spread the news it can be a lot of fun, just think creative and let the pieces fall. You may even want to try catching all of it on video, so think ahead and prepare for the BIG moment, and I'm not meaning the birth.

Budget Baby Layettes

2009-06-18T20:22:00.000-07:00

Getting what you need for your newbo without going broke

It's been said time and again that babies cost a pretty penny. Although little Brad or Jennifer won't hop out of the birth canal and start demanding servants and expensive electronic gadgets, they do represent some additional expenses that can be wallet-draining when considered all at once. Fortunately the expenses do not have to be incurred all at once even an unplanned pregnancy allots nine months to plan and gradually deal with the expenses associated with procreation. There are several steps that expectant parents can take to help cut down on some of the major expenses that are expected.

Baby Showers

A baby shower is a time honored tradition in which expectant mothers get a bunch of free stuff from their friends and family members. Don't be afraid or ashamed to take advantage of this situation. A decent shower can often cover most of the immediate baby layette needs. Usually someone will offer to hold a shower for the expectant mom, but she shouldn't be afraid to drop hints to close friends and family or even come right out and ask for a shower.

Buy Diapers in Advance

When is the best time to start buying diapers and other such essentials? The moment after conception would be ideal, but since most women don't know that they're expecting until weeks or even months later, you may have to settle for "as soon as you find out." Start adding diapers to your regular shopping list and try to pick up one or two packages each week. Varying between size one and two is a good idea, with perhaps a pack or two of the newbo size. If you have a bigger baby you don't want to be stuck with lots of newbo size diapers that you'll never use. If the baby is "normal" size it is easy to buy newbo sizes while you need them and rest easy in the knowledge that you're already stocked up on the next sizes up. A lower cost alteative to this is to use a cloth diaper service if you can find one still in operation in your area.

Get Help & Buy Used Whenever Possible

For large baby needs like cribs, playpens, and strollers, try and get the help of family members with these purchases. Proud grandparents to be are usually more than happy to help with items like these. A lot of money can be saved by purchasing these items second-hand as well. If a used crib, stroller, or playpen is in good condition, there is no reason not to buy it over a new one. The only item you probably don't want to buy used is a car seat. These items must meet safety requirements and there is no way to be sure that a used one measures up to current standards.

A little planning and thinking ahead is all it takes to save serious money on most of your initial and ongoing baby needs. They real key to setting up your baby layette on a budget is to start as soon as possible.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Kirsten Hawkins is a baby and parenting expert specializing new mothers and single parent issues. Visit www.babyhelp411.com/ for more information on how to raising healthy, happy children.

Internet Safety for Kids: How and Why Parents Should Learn About the Internet

2009-06-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

Are you the parent of a child who uses the inteet or the parent of a child who will start using the inteet soon? If you are, you should know that the inteet is a great way to stay up-to-date on the news, do research for school projects, and communicate with friends, but it can also be very dangerous. As a parent, it is your responsibility to make sure that your child stays safe online. Unfortunately, for this to happen you must know your way around a computer and the inteet. Do you? A child should never know more than a parent does about the inteet. At the very least, you should know about the same. If you are looking to block adult websites or websites that have offensive language, it will not do you any good if your teenager knows ways to get around the parental controls that you set. That is why it is important that you know how to use a computer and the inteet or lea if you don't know. Another reason why you should be well educated on the inteet and computer use is because you are better able to fully understand the dangers of them. You may hear that an inteet predator approached or kidnapped a child on the news, but you may automatically assume that it will not happen to your child. Unfortunately, until you understand how the inteet works, you really have no idea. Does your child use inteet chat rooms or social networking websites? If so, do you know how easy the inteet makes it for someone to create a whole new, fake identity? A good understanding of computer and inteet use can better enable you to protect your child. Do you know that Inteet Explorer, the browser that comes standard, has a free parental control option that just needs to be activated? A few easy steps and you can have certain websites blocked from your child. Unfortunately, you won't know this if you don't know all that you can know about the computer or the inteet. Speaking of the inteet, additional online safety tools for parents can be purchased online as well. Now that you know the importance of staying in the know about the inteet and a computer in general, you may be curious as to how you can go about doing so. The good news is that there are a number of ways that you can lea all that you need to know about computer and inteet use. A few of these ways are outlined below for your convenience. Teaching yourself is an easy way to lea about the inteet and computer use. In fact, what better way is there than to just jump on the computer and see what you can find. For starters, examine your computer or your inteet browser for free inteet safety tools for parents. You may also want to visit some of the websites that your child visits, just to see what they are subjecting themselves to. Visit their online profile for MySpace, Facebook, or another social networking website. Does it make you uneasy? Are the discussions taking place in your child's favorite chat room too adult? You can also ask a trusted friend or relative for help. Do not ask your child or teenager for help though. If they know that you want to set up parental controls or keep tabs on their inteet use, they may withhold important information from you. Instead, invite a trusted friend or relative over for coffee and lunch and let them show you the ins and outs of the inteet. All you really need is a couple of hours. You can also take an inteet or computer education course. These courses are sometimes offered for free or for an affordable fee by local community groups, colleges, or vocational training centers. In fact, see if your child's school offers anything. Some schools host informational seminars for parents on inteet safety about once a year. PPPPP Word Count 667

Does The Size Of Your Baby Matter

2009-06-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

Does size matter? No, not that! Is your baby too fat, too thin, is she eating too much or not enough? Not only have you got your weight to worry about, now there's two of you!

In the first week your baby will lose weight, about 5-8% of her birth weight. Don't be alarmed, this is perfectly natural. She built up a store of fat to help her cope with the birth and the first few days before your breastmilk kicks in, and her digestive system needs a bit of time to get used to life outside the womb. She will probably reach her birth weight at 2 or 3 weeks and will continue to grow.

You will have been given a Red Book after the birth and in there you will find centile charts. There are separate charts for boys and girls, and for weight, length (height) and head circumference. Each chart is split into centiles, the 50th centile running through the middle (the average), and the 10th and 91st centiles at the outer boundaries. Each time you visit your local clinic your health visitor will measure baby to see how much she has grown, and the measurements will be plotted on the charts. If her measurements fall below the 50th centile, she is smaller than average; above and she is larger than average.

Centile charts are just guidelines and, while her chart will probably rise and follow her particular centile, there will be occasional blips. Again, this is nothing to worry about. She may have a growth spurt, or a pause or even a fall if she is ill and off her food or she doesn't take readily to solids. Then when she starts to crawl and walk, she will bu off more calories and start to lose her baby shape.

There is no 'right' size for a baby, they come in all shapes and sizes, just like adults. As long as she is feeding well and is healthy, how much weight she has gained in the last week or so is not important.

If baby doesn't gain weight for two or three months, this is known as 'failure to thrive'. Other symptoms will be apparent during this period, like refusing her milk or poor feeding and general lethargy. Failure to thrive is rare - less than one baby in a hundred is affected.

Ensure that you regularly attend your baby clinic. Your baby's growth and general health will be monitored by experts and any questions or worries you have will be answered.

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Author: Tony and Katy Luck who run a site about babies from conception to birth.

Clay County Missouri Child Protection Service

2009-06-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

Clay County is a county situated in the US state of Missouri. Its county seat is liberty. This county was established in 1822 and was named in honor of Henry Clay the US Representative from Kentucky. Clay County is one of the leading counties that include the Kansas City metropolitan area. It is considered as the most crowded county in the metro. The land of the county is beautiful and attractive. Various types of child protection services are available in the county. If you want information on Clay county Missouri child protection service, browse the website of any legal agency or institute that provide several child protection services. Many private and govement agencies, institutes and organizations provide various legal services and protections to the citizens of Missouri. If you are new in the city and you want information on Clay county Missouri child protection services, go to one of the agencies in the city and ask for the complete information. State Lawyers Inc is one of the leading legal services providing agencies of Missouri. The agency provides a huge range of legal resources, which are developed to help the citizens of Missouri with whatever lawful issues they are facing. The agency is committed to provide a simple and easy to use Clay county Missouri child protection services to the citizens of the county. People can also get information and help from the agency on telephone call. State Lawyers has many attoeys and Law Firms to provide legal services. The company provides several online solutions to the clients trough inteet. The company is sure that every one will appreciate what the StateLawyers.com offers. The company always strives to provide a top quality child protection services to the citizens of Missouri State. You can also get Clay County Missouri child protection service through the Child Support facility of the court. Child Support is the payment ordered by the court. One parent can order this facility to the custodial parent with the help of the court after separation or divorce. Generally, the sum of support is based on the eaings of both parents, the expenses of the custodial parent, the number of children and any special requirements of the child. In many states, the amount is determined by a chart, which factors in all these figures. It may also include health plan coverage, school tuition or other expenses, and may be reduced during periods of extended visitation such as summer vacations. Child support generally continues until the child reaches 18 years, graduates from high school, is emancipated (no longer lives with either parent), or, in some cases, continues after the child reaches 18, such as during college attendance.

Does Your Baby Necessarily Need Shoes

2009-06-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

When you came up with such question, what will be your answer? You understand that your baby always in your arm and your baby cannot walk yet. So, what the need of shoes for your baby?

Don�t get confused. Your baby is growing. She has different stages of growth; of course she needs different stages of baby shoes. Although some would say that letting your baby barefoot is okay, but still you need something to cover her feet. Your baby should have shoes to keep her feet warm such as soft-sole baby shoes which are made of light and flexible cloth that provides an extra layer of warmth.

There are three categories of soft-sole baby shoes for your kid which include smooth leather sole, suede leather sole and rubber sole. All are made for your baby from the early age up to a few months. These types of baby shoes are made resembling your baby being barefoot. It serve to protect the foot from cold, dirt, glass, uneven surfaces, tree roots, gravel, wooden decks, rocks etc. Many medical experts agree that barefoot is best, but not practical when standing, pulling up, cruising or walking.

You might find moccasins as an example of soft-sole baby shoes. Moccasins are nothing more than leather sewn around the foot. The moccasin has absolutely no structure to get in the way of the foot doing what it wants to do naturally. Moccasins have either smooth leather or suede leather bottoms which are sewn to the leather top part.

As your baby begins to be more active, the shoes change a little. You need more appropriate shoes for this age which are much sturdy. At this stage, there are so many styles of baby shoes. You can find for your baby girl or boy. The shoes also serve as protections while your baby already crawling or scooting.

The next stage of your baby�s shoes development is when your baby begins to walk. Shoes are important apparel for your baby. The style of the shoe is not as important as the protection and guidance a baby gets from those shoes. When the baby reaches the walking stage, it is probably time to spend a little more on a shoe that will support baby and protect his feet well.

When your child is getting bigger, you have to find more proper shoes that could protect your child feet from dangerous stuffs. In the first three years, your child feet undergo the most rapid growth and the average will grow several sizes. In fact, children's feet are not fully formed until their teens.

You must understand that size are different from manufacturer to manufacturer, shoe sizes will often vary from brand to brand. Leather is the most popular material for children's shoes because it lets air in while keeping moisture out, meaning feet stay cool and dry in most conditions. This is important because a child's foot perspires twice as much as an adult's. And since kids are tougher on shoes than adults, leather is also more popular than other materials because of its durability qualities.

So, it shows that since your baby bo until your kid gets bigger, shoes always been important mean to protect their feet.

About the author: Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit her Website http://www.my-baby-shoes.info and http://www.child-shoes.info

Choosing The Best Baby Monitor For Your Family

2009-06-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

A baby monitor is a very useful device for mode parents. Such a device allows you to check on your child's safety even when you are doing other things at a certain distance or outside the room. It not only saves you a lot of time and burden, but it also keeps you at ease knowing that your precious one is safe even at a distance. However, with the many different kinds of monitors available in the market at present sometimes it may get confusing. Knowing the different types of monitors and what to consider will surely help you in making a choice. What are the types of baby monitors? In selecting a monitor that best fits your family, you have three major options to choose from –an audio, video or a sensory monitor. Audio monitors allow you to hear the activities of your child (ex: crying) as they pick up sound. This type comes in both analog as well as digital models. The analog monitors are the most affordable but are usually still reliable. They work through the radio frequency and use FM signals to transmit the sound. The major set-back of this variety is the tendency of other receivers picking up the same signal that your monitor transmits, thus less privacy and disturbances are possible. On the other hand, the digital model may cost a little more but it provides more privacy and usually has a wider range of reception than analog. Another advantage is that the digital models do not have as much static and they give a clearer sound quality so you can hear your baby better. Video monitorsallow you to see and hear your child by combining sound and video just like miniature TV sets. They use a small camera either mounted on the wall, table or crib to transmit the images into the LCD display. They are usually portable and come with multiple cameras and even night vision. Sensory monitorsdetect the baby's slightest movements even during sleep. It fits under the mattress of the baby and alarms you when the baby stops moving or is absolutely still for 20 seconds. Some models available also come with audio monitors installed. These come with a portable parent's unit that sends you the alarm and allows you to hear your baby's activities. What are the things that you should consider? Always remember, that in choosing the type of baby monitor for your family you must reflect on which model would best suit you and your baby's needs. The size of your home, and the clarity of frequency are very important factors to consider. Simpler monitor models will do for smaller houses, but you may need a more sophisticated monitor system for a larger house. The lifestyle and the type of work that you have to do around is also another important factor to consider, especially if your work requires you to be farther away from your baby's room and you may need a monitor that covers the range, particularly a portable one. Always remember that whether you would prefer an audio, video or sensory monitor, the clarity of sound and video of your unit should be of very good quality for you to effectively monitor your child. Whatever model you may choose, the most important aspects to consider is that your choice must certainly cater to your needs, fit your budget and most especially provide you with a good avenue to watch out for your baby's safety.

How to Potty Training Your Toddler

2009-06-17T01:05:00.000-07:00

It�s a milestone in your child�s life�leaing how to use the potty. Many parents find both a joy and sorrow in this stage that is a rite of passage for their child from being a baby to being a big boy or girl. For parents trying to toilet train, it can test your patience. However, using the potty is complex for small children, so mom and dad shouldn�t panic if baby doesn�t potty train right away. The best way to approach potty training is to take it one step at a time and to be patient.

The first step is to get both you and your toddler ready. Observe little one for the �about to go� signals such as squatting, retreating to a quiet area or verbalization. Other signals that show a parent a toddler is ready are: verbal communication of things like hunger, child understands simple sentences, doesn�t like being soiled, stays dry longer. One way you can help your baby from birth for this time is to change all dirty diapers quickly. This way, they never have a chance to be used to the soiled feeling. Once your sure your toddler is ready, prepare yourself by getting the proper equipment. This includes but is not limited to: potty training chair, training pants, training diapers, other potty training aids. You must also prepare to be patient�don�t expect miracles oveight.

Once you�re both ready, start by teaching the essentials. First, teach them where to go. A good way to get your toddler involved is to let him or her pick their own potty chair. This ensures that they will be comfortable with potty training on the chair. Next, you want to make sure you�re teaching the correct vocabulary. It�s best to use words like �penis� and �vagina� to prevent confusion in later life. However, it�s okay to use words like �pee-pee� and �poo-poo� rather than �urination� and �defecation�. The main challenge consists of teaching them the connection between feeling the urge and going and after going, telling mommy or daddy. You could do this by waiting for them to show the telltale signs of eliminating and taking them straight to the potty training chair. TV�s �Dr. Phil� suggests illustrating with a doll that uses the bathroom. Having this visual aid can help a great deal. Once they begin to make progress, move them from diapers to training pants. Above all, be patient and relax. Some day you�ll look back on this time and miss it.

Grant Carroll proud father and co-owner of http://www.littlepamperedbabies.com with Baby Clothes and Baby T-Shirts Also visit Little Pampered Pets where you can find boutique quality Dog Clothes and Small Dog Sweaters

Pregnancy: The Importance of Prenatal Care

2009-06-17T01:00:00.001-07:00

Have you recently found out that you are pregnant? Whether you took a home pregnancy test or your doctor confirmed your pregnancy for you, you may be experiencing a wide array of emotions. Those emotions may include happiness, excitement, hope, as well as fear. When it comes to the birth of a child, particularly a first child, there are many mothers who have a number of different issues or conces that must be dealt with. Those issues and conces may include money, additional living space, healthcare, and needed baby supplies, like baby formula and diapers. Although these are all issues and conces that must be dealt with, something should come first. That is the health of you and your baby. The moment that you lea that you are pregnant, you should start taking steps to receive prenatal care. Although it is important to hear that prenatal care is something that you should seek right away, there are many mothers, especially first time mothers, who wonder what is so important about doing so. If this is a question that you have asked yourself, you are not alone. A few of the many reasons why you should actively seek prenatal care, when pregnant, are outlined below. What you need to know is that prenatal care is important to your baby's health, as well as your health. Although a large focus will be placed on your baby and its development, prenatal care is also used to ensure that you are healthy as well. This often involves monitoring your weight, your blood pressure, as well as the expanding size of your stomach. That is one of the many reasons why you should attend all of your prenatal care appointments, as it is important to your health, as well as your baby's. Another reason why prenatal care appointments are important is because they can be used to determine if your baby will have any medical conditions or complications when they are bo. While many parents do not want to know, ahead of time, there are many others who do. Knowing if your baby will have any medical conditions is important, as it can help you financially prepare for those complications and any life adjustments that need to be made. The above mentioned reasons are just a few of the many reasons why it is important that you seek prenatal care when pregnant. In addition to monitoring your health and the healthy of your baby, you should also seek prenatal care as it is a fun, exciting, and an important experience. When attending your prenatal care appointments, whether you be seeing a family practice doctor, an OBGYN, or a midwife, you should be able to see a sonogram of your baby, as well as hear his or her heartbeat. These things are things that parents never forget. Despite the importance of prenatal care, there are many pregnant women who do not seek it. This occurs for a number of different reasons; however, the most common reason is associated with money. If you are currently uninsured or if your health insurance doesn't cover prenatal care, you may be conceed with the cost of it, as you should be. What you should know is that many healthcare professionals would be more than willing to work with, like with the creation of a payment plan. There are also health centers, which can be found all across the country, that are designed for low-income women or those without medical insurance. As outlined above, prenatal care is extremely important to your health and the health of your baby, when you are pregnant. Whether you are having your first child or your third, it is important that you seek the recommended amount of prenatal care. Pregnancy is one of the most important issues that you will have to deal with in your life and it is extremely important that it is dealt with in the proper matter. PPPPP Word Count 655

Encouraging Prewriting Skills in Toddlers

2009-06-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

Most parents are generous and encouraging when it comes to providing their toddlers with toys. They enjoy watching their child play with soft toys, toys that light up, noisy toys, toys that move, etc.... Basically, parents are always keen on things that can enhance their toddler's coordination, movement and thinking abilities. However, an important "toy" that is often overlooked is that of a pen or pencil.

Many parents are apprehensive when it comes to arming their toddler with a pen or pencil. Below are some of their conces: 1. It's dangerous. What if he pokes his eye out? 2. She will just draw everywhere. It's so troublesome to clean off her scribbling on my wall, floor and tables. 3. He can't even control his movements yet. He just scribbles. I'll let him have a pen when he is older.

It is better to find solutions to your conces then to deprive your child of a wonderful leaing experience. A toddler that is not given ample opportunities to scribble is at a disadvantage.

Now, you may ask, when do I start? The answer is simple, start when they are ready. Every child develops at a different rate. For example, younger siblings may pick up the skill earlier and quicker because they have an older sibling to model after. You know your child best. Provide the opportunities and observe their readiness. Once they are ready, have pencils and paper readily available and easily accessible to encourage the leaing

Another question would be, how to start? Children lea best through modeling. You can start by having drawing sessions with your toddler on your lap. Even better if you illustrate while telling a story. Don't worry if your dinosaur looks like a dog. You do not need to be Van Gogh to teach your child what a pencil can do. Later, give them a pencil and see what they do with it. Some toddlers may need to be taught how to hold it. Some are naturals and will take it like fish to water.

It is important that you do not rush your toddler into drawing shapes and writing alphabets. Allow the free expression of scribbling as it is a crucial stage to their development. You disrupt their leaing process when you ignore their scribbling and push them to lea how to "draw properly".

Another important factor is to make writing fun. Writing doesn't just have to be paper and pencil. Children love to experiment with blackboards and chalks, and white boards and markers. Kindergartens these days can dish out really boring work. Kids come home copying the strokes over and over again. Where is the excitement? How about blowing up a balloon and then scribbling on it? How about pretending you're a policeman scribbling a summon?

Prewriting skills starts from the home and not in kindergartens. So parents, provide the opportunities, be creative and be encouraging. Your child's potential is waiting to be discovered.

Article written by Lim Ai Lian, owner of http://valuebookshop.com, a premier specialty bookshop for parents and children in Malaysia and Singapore. She blogs at http://mamasbagoftricks.blogspot.com

Avoiding Foods While Breast Feeding

2009-06-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

Many women find that they can eat whatever they may like during breast feeding. Even though it's true that some stongly favored foods can change the taste of your milk, many babies seem to enjoy the varieties of breast milk flavors. Occasionally, your baby may get cranky at the breast after you eat certain foods. If you notice this happening, simply avoid that particular food. The most common offenders duing breast feeding include chocolate, spices, citrus fruits, garlic, chili, lime, gassy vegetables, and fruits with laxative type effects, such as prunes and cherries. You can have a cup or two of coffee a day, although too much caffeine can interfere with your baby's sleep and even make him or her cranky. Keep in mind, caffeine is found in many soda's, tea, and even over the counter type medicine as well. It's okay to have an alcoholic beverage every now and the, although having more than one drink can increase your blood alcohol level, putting the alcohol into your breast milk. If you are planning to have more than one drink at a time, it's best to wait two hours or more per drink before you resume any type of nursing or breast feeding. There is no need to pump and dump unless your breasts are full and its time to feed your baby. While breast feeding, any type of heavy drinking should be avoided. Before you actually omit any foods from your diet, you should talk to your doctor. If you avoid certain foods and it causes a nutritional imbalance, you may need to see a nutritionist for advice on taking other foods or getting nutritional supplements. (word count 277) PPPPP

Homemade Baby Food Puts You In Charge

2009-06-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Making your own baby food gives you the distinct advantage of controlling what goes into your baby�s sensitive tummy. You determine how much, if any, sugar and spices your baby gets. Even when found on sale for as low as 50 cents per jar, producing your own is a much less expensive alteative to ready made. Making baby food is actually very simple with a few simple tools: a blender, food processor, baby food grinder or similar machine, a steamer or boiling pot, ice cube trays, and a few minutes of your time.

As with jarred baby food, begin slowly, introducing only one new fruit or vegetable per week. Be sure to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction. Start with the least acidic of the fruits, such as apples, pears, and bananas.

If you would like to prepare your own baby food, follow these basic tips:

Fruits and Vegetables

Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove any chemical residue.

Steam or boil your baby�s favorite fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables until mushy. Use fresh fruits and veggies for the most nutritional value,
frozen next, and canned as a last option. If you use canned veggies, be sure to use the "No Salt" versions. Use little or no spice.

Puree the fruits or vegetables very well for smaller infants (use water to thin out), or leave a bit coarser for older ones. For variety, mix two
fruits together. If these are the first foods you are feeding your infant, you may even want to strain the pureed fruit. You can purchase an
inexpensive baby food maker that does this for you.

Spoon into ice-cube trays and cover with plastic wrap. Freeze.

Once frozen, remove from trays and store in plastic freezer bags.

At meal time, simply take out a few cubes of food and allow to thaw to room temperature or defrost in the microwave for a few seconds.

You can make weeks worth of meals at a time!

A few suggested fruits and veggies to begin with:

Apples

Pears

Bananas

Peaches

Plums

Potatoes (mash with water, formula, or breast milk)

Peas

Sweet Potatoes

Butteut Squash

Carrots

Desserts/Treats

Make your own Ambrosia by mixing a few fruits together, such as strawberries and bananas. Be creative! However, only use fruits which baby
has already tried and shown no allergic reaction towards.

For older babies, mix plain or vanilla-flavored yogurt with their favorite fruits.

Freeze baby�s favorite juice in ice cube trays. Mush up and let baby eat with a spoon for a frozen treat! This one is great for those terrible
teething days.

Meals

As baby gets older, you can also puree dishes that you fix for the rest of the family such as:

macaroni and cheese

spaghetti

well cooked chicken and

Freeze in ice cube trays similar to the fruits and vegetables.

**Be sure when thawing meat dishes that you allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or defrost in the microwave to prevent the risk of E-coli bacteria forming.

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