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Babies

Mama’s Boy

By

ss

My 18-month-old son is the most beautiful boy in the world. He clings to me like glue, looks soulfully into my eyes and is never happier then when we are snuggled together reading “Goodnight Moon”, his tiny hand in mine. He then chants ‘mama…mama” sweetly as I read, and I just melt with love (like Elvis and doting Mama Gladys in pic).

Unlike my 4-year old girl who was Miss Independence since day 1 (dont get me wrong, we have a special bond too, but its just different), he just seems more vulnerable and more needy of Mom than my girl ever was. These days she’s more into her football or friends at kindergarten, but I can’t ever remember her being like my son. It just got me thinking. Is my son doomed to be a Mama’s Boy? Was it like this with all mothers and sons?

Take my Grandmother for instance. When my aunts come for lunch at her apartment, they’ll have to make do with whatever is on the table (or cook themselves more likely). But when my Uncle (only son, mind you) comes for his weekly visit….the best steak is laid out and all his other favourite dishes! And when the aunts complain, Grandma just shrugs and says “well, he’s my son!”.

When I asked girlfriends and aunts who had sons about this strange mother-son phenomena, they all heartily agreed that indeed, things were always different with their sons – there was definitely some kind of love affair going. And that to understand it with our daughters, you had to realize that the same thing was going on with their Daddies.

Originally posted on September 1, 2006 @ 9:19 pm

The Perfect Gift For Newborns

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Newborn Baby

What better reason to celebrate than the birth of a new baby? Of course, along with the celebration comes the gift-giving. Whether you opt for one of the classics � baby clothes, bedding, or a silver keepsake (rattle, spoon, frame, etc.) � or something a little more creative, the new arrival is sure to appreciate it, even if he may not be able to send you a thank-you note just yet. Here are some great gift ideas:

1. A personality write-up based on his zodiac sign or birth date will be a one-of-a-kind keepsake for his baby book

2. A kit filled with all the necessities. Just bundle a car seat with a sun shade, car toys, and a pair of baby-sized sunglasses, and she’ll be ready to go.

3. Create your own gift kit with a comforting nightlight, an entertaining mobile, and some soothing music made just for babies .

4. A good supply of soft, resilient chewable toys will let her explore safely with her mouth.

5. Baby-friendly board books in with the traditional hardcover variety � that way she can truly appreciate the sound of your gift and the taste as well!

Originally posted on September 3, 2006 @ 2:18 pm

Sibling Rivalry

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sibling rivalry.jpgThey yell at each other, nag each other, bicker, scream, bully each other and basically go, “Mom, look at what he or she is doing”. It gives you a headache just listening to them. The never ending raised voices between your kids grates on your nerves.

Why do kids fight?

For one, they are competing for what they see as a limited resource: your time, attention and love. As each new child is added to your family, that is yet another person to take your attention away from them. As we all know, there is nothing like knowing our parents actively love us and having 20 minutes of your time if your time if you only have an hour to spend with the family just isn’t enough. This is especially true if there is a new baby in the house. They know that babies need more attention, but they need you too.

Another reason may be that they are trying to establish their own identity. Siblings too close in age tend to have to share too many things, from clothes to friends. It can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. It is very difficult to be an individual when you practically have no personal space.

So, what can be done?

Try not to play favorites and give everyone equal time. Don’t give just one kid a special treat. Make everything a family thing as much as possible.

Recognize their individuality. Praise each for the unique things that they are good at. Be aware of their individual strengths and emphasize the blessing that that uniqueness brings your family.

If possible, find a way so that each child has the necessary space and privacy. Everyone needs that, adult or child. We all need times of peace and quiet and time filled with our brand of noise…erm…music.

[tags]parenting,relationships,sibling rivalry,fighting,personal space,individuality,brothers,sisters[/tags]

Originally posted on July 19, 2006 @ 8:14 pm

One Last Word

By

dd

Nat now seems to be recovering, and the phlegmy cough is at least far less scary that the high fever she had yesterday.

While doing research though I stumbled upon an article which may be interesting for any Moms out there experiencing the same thing (new moms – dont worry you will!). I’ve condensed it.

Fever in Children by Len Leshin, MD, FAAP.

Fever is the body’s reaction to infection. Through mechanisms that aren’t known well, some aspect of infection and/or inflammation causes the brain to reset its “thermostat.” There are many theories for why this happens, including the idea that most germs can’t replicate well at higher body temperatures and that some parts of the immune system works better at higher temperatures. When the body has reset its thermostat, any temperature below that is considered by the body to be cold; so if the thermostat has been reset to 104 F, a temperature of 102 F will actually seem cold, and the body starts shivering to increase body heat: that’s why we get “chills.”

While fever is considered a rise in body temperature, not everyone’s body temperature is the same. The common average cited is 98.6 F (37.0 C), but your actual “normal” temperature may vary. Regardless, in infants and small children, fever is regarded as anything 100 F (37.8 C) or higher; in school-aged children and above, 99.3 F (37.4 C) or higher.

Here’s the important point: Fever is NOT dangerous! The amount of temperature required to hurt the human brain is over 107.6 F (42 C). Fever due to infection very rarely goes over 106.2 (41.3 C), and while scary to parents, is not harmful. (Temperatures over 107.6 F are usually due to heatstroke, head trauma, toxic ingestions or anesthesia side effects.) Seizures due to fever can occur in the age range of 4 months to 6 years, but is most often associated with an abrupt rise in temperature, rather than an extremely high fever. And while seizures due to fever are frightening, they are short (less than 5 minutes) and are very rarely harmful to the child’s brain.

Important note: while fever is not dangerous, it is a sign of infection, and there are some infections that are dangerous to children. How high the fever gets may not tell you how dangerous the infection may be. Infants 3 months of age and younger may not show serious signs of infection until it is too late, so these infants should always be seen by a doctor when febrile. For older infants and children, they should be seen by a doctor or other health care provider if you feel the symptoms may indicate that your child may have a serious infection, or if you are unsure if your child’s symptoms are serious or not.

Originally posted on August 23, 2006 @ 10:28 am

Why Won’t My Baby Sleep?

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sleep-whatcanudo_100.jpgThe phrase sleeping like a baby is one we’ve grown up hearing. Then you become a parent and you realize sometimes your baby won’t sleep at all! You’ve barely put her to bed and she’s crying again. You’ve fed, burped and changed your baby’s diaper. You checked if he’s running a fever, checked for any possible causes of discomfort yet your baby keeps crying and you are now frazzled and worried.

Naturally, being loving parents, the first thing we rule out is illness. Better to be overprotective than too late, right? Thank goodness for pediatricians who truly understand that we want our children to be well and don’t mind being bothered at odd hours when we truly are at a loss.

Now that you’re sure that you baby’s health is fine, it is time to check your little ones sleeping habits. You may need to make some adjustments if your child has developed some habits that contribute to the restless nights. Hopefully these tips will help you get your kid to sleep through the night.

  • Napping is normal for babies but try not to let them nap more than 3 hours during the day.
  • When bedtime comes around, as your baby gets sleepy put him in his crib. Get him used to associating his crib as time to sleep.
  • Avoid rocking your baby to sleep. Though we all love cuddling our kids, doing this develops a pattern where they need you to actually rock them to bed everynight. Get them used to quieting down in their crib instead, without the motion.
  • A lullaby is a favorite method to soothe your child to sleep. Put on some soft music for your baby. There is a vast collection available intended just for babies.
  • If your baby does wake up in the middle of the night avoid picking him up or playing with him. Keep your midnight visits short and soothing and encourage your baby to go back to sleep. It may be as simple as your child needs a diaper change which you can do quickly, quietly and get him settled in again.
  • Avoid giving your child a pacifier before sleeping. Babies used to this usually cry if it falls out of their mouth and you spend your night plugging it in. As we all know, none of us sleep with a pacifier so your child can do without it.

[tags]parenting,babies,sleep,tips[/tags]

Originally posted on July 27, 2006 @ 10:18 pm

Toys for Babies

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parenting.gifBabies are very curious. They love to explore and look around. Everything is new to them and they are excited to learn. It is always a great idea to stimulate your babies love of learning.

Toys do not have to be expensive for them to be enjoyed by your baby. In fact, you’ll be surprised that they prefer plain, simple things to gadgets and gizmos at the start. You can save the expensive toys for when he or she already knows how to care for them as well as play with them.

It’s a great idea to get them a bunch of plastic balls of varying colors. They can have fun swimming among the balls and getting a handle of its shape. It familiarizes him with the round shape while you teach him the various colors. Even your older kids will want to jump in among the balls.

Blocks are always a big hit. Letter, numbers or pictures on the sides can be used to help teach your baby. Since we all know that babies go through the stage where they love to throw, get soft blocks instead. They are long lasting and washable and more safe than wooden ones.

As they become more mobile, they begin to enjoy toys that they can move around as well. Notice how even if your child can’t talk yet, he can already mimic the sound of the car? Stimulate his imagination and get him moving around with vehicles that he can push or pull along. In fact, there are even cars that they can ride and you can push around. They love those and you’ll enjoy playing with him!

Originally posted on July 5, 2006 @ 9:20 pm

How To Introduce Your Pet To Your New Baby. Part 1

By

dog

Having a baby may not mean saying goodbye to your beloved pooch. Find out how to help your two ‘babies’ become best of friends.Shelter workers report that many people who surrender their pets to animal shelters cite a new baby as the reason why they give up their pet. Yet many other families have successfully brought a new baby into their home and still been able to keep and enjoy their animal friends. What is the secret of their success? Experts suggest that preparing for the baby’s arrival well in advance and taking a few simple precautions can avoid friction and jealousy between your human baby and your furry one. Remember, your four-footed children are accustomed to your undivided attention and pampering.

1. Some jealousy will naturally surface when your new infant suddenly consumes all of your time. Plan to set aside a few minutes each day for quality time with your pet. Some extra attention and a few treats can go a long way toward avoiding behavioural problems and jealousy.

2. Dogs and cats are largely creatures of habit. Though your own routine will be completely disrupted by the new baby, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. If you anticipate changes in that routine, such as restricting their access to the baby’s room or feeding in a new location, begin implementing the changes as soon as possible before the infant comes home.

Originally posted on May 26, 2006 @ 4:38 am

How To Introduce Your Pet To Your New Baby. Part 2

By

dog

3. Animals, like humans, find comfort in routine. An established pattern on which to fall back on will help combat the insecurity your pet will naturally feel during the first few weeks after baby’s arrival. Along the same lines, allow your pet to get used to some of the new baby smells before you bring your infant home. Apply baby lotion or powder to your hands, for example, and allow your pet to sniff baby’s clothes and blankets. If possible, allow him to investigate an article of clothing or blanket worn by the new baby prior to the infant’s arrival from the hospital. Animals rely heavily on their sense of smell, so familiarity with the baby’s smell will help your pet recognise him as part of the family when he comes home.

4. When you finally arrive home with your new baby, greet your pet happily and tell him how much you missed him. Gently introduce him to the baby so he can get a good look at the new family member. From that point forward, include him in as many baby activities as possible. Even saying his name while you’re changing nappies or feeding your infant will make your pet feel like an important part of this new life. Most behaviour problems pets exhibited after a new baby’s arrival stem from jealousy and neglect.

By paying special attention to your pet, preparing him in advance and including him as much as possible after baby comes home, you can avoid such problems and ensure a harmonious household.

Originally posted on May 27, 2006 @ 4:52 am

Feeding Your Baby On The Road. Part 2.

By

vv

Feeding solids on the go

Starting at about age 4 to 6 months, your child will probably start eating solid food � so get ready to add soft spoons, dishes, bibs, and more to your already bulging diaper bag.

What helps: Disposable or plastic-coated bibs.

Disposable bibs are really extra-thick paper towels with Velcro-like closures that you toss after one use. Plastic-coated bibs can be wiped clean with a wipe or napkin and machine-washed when you get home. Portable placemats. Portable placemats that you can lay down on restaurant tables or highchair trays give you the peace of mind of knowing that your baby’s eating off of a clean surface. You’ll find reusable or disposable mats made of plastic � these are handy because they don’t slip. Disposable placemats (essentially heavy-duty paper towels) also do the trick, but they don’t stay put as well as the plastic ones.

Mini-food dicer. Tired of cutting your baby’s food into bite-size pieces?

A food dicer does the job quickly for you and is small enough to fit in your diaper bag. Just drop the fruits, vegetables, meat, or poultry that you want to feed your baby into the dicer, press a few times, and the meal is ready to serve, safely.

Knowing the safety rules of baby food.

If you’re offering food from a jar or container, don’t dip the spoon back into the food after it’s touched your child’s mouth unless you’re sure he’ll eat it all (or you don’t want to save what’s left). The spoon will contaminate the remaining food with bacteria. Instead, use a clean spoon to scoop a small amount of food into a bowl and serve from there. Once a jar of commercial baby food has been opened, it will keep � refrigerated � for 24 to 48 hours (read the jar’s label for specifics: Fruits keep longer than meats). If you don’t have access to a refrigerator, sandwich any leftovers in ice packs in an insulated cooler. When in doubt, throw it out. It’s better not to risk serving contaminated food.

Clip-on seat or self-inflating booster.

Helpful whether you’re dining in a restaurant or at a friend’s house, these seats attach to virtually any table, or even a picnic bench. A self-inflating booster is compact enough to fit in most diaper bags or backpacks.

Disposable snack cups.

Fill a couple of plastic cups with fitted tops with snacks appropriate for your child’s age: rice cereal for an infant (add breast milk, formula, or water when you’re ready to feed), toasted O’s cereal, teething biscuits, goldfish crackers, mandarin oranges, peeled and sliced grapes. These containers keep food from spilling or getting crushed � and they make great serving bowls for jarred food, too.

Disposable spoons.

Infant- and toddler-sized disposable spoons are useful for mixing cereal and for feeding your baby. And you don’t have to worry about cleaning them to take home.

Mini-insulated tote bag.

A small cooler bag with ice packs keeps formula, juice, yogurt, cheese, and other perishable foods fresh until you need them. If your baby is still eating just a few foods, it will make your life easier if you keep them on hand and then “supplement” with appropriate foods available wherever you happen to be eating.

Portable mini-fridge.

For longer outings such as road trips, a portable refrigerator with a car adapter (which can also be plugged into a standard electric outlet) keeps jars of opened baby food, snacks, breast milk, and prepared formula cool.

Tip: Even when you’re at home, offer jarred baby food at room temperature rather than heating it. That way, when you’re out (where warming it up would be inconvenient), your baby will enjoy it just as it is.

Originally posted on May 22, 2006 @ 4:35 am