Babies Planet

Clash of Parenting Styles – Best Ways of Dealing with It

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 06:41:00 +0000

Clash of parenting styles is a common issue that disturbs the kids and the parents. Let’s consider the situation of Katie who is the mother of two kids and believes in being strict with them. Her partner, Matt, on the other hand, has a lenient way of dealing with the kids. He believes in saying ‘yes’ to the kids, no matter how outrageous their demands are. Their contradicting parenting styles lead to frequent clashes and are affecting the kids’ psyche as well. How parents facing similar problems can deal with the situation most effectively?

• Firstly, accept the fact that differences of opinion are normal and need not be a negative thing always. As Martin Maldonado (psychiatrist, Family Service & Guidance Center) says, "It's healthy for children to be exposed to differences of opinion”. Maldonado further opines, "You don't have to agree on everything, but you do have to respect each other's point of view." Therefore, the next time your partner differs from your opinion, discuss the issue and decide a strategy that gives equal importance to the suggestions of both of you.

• Parents often disagree regarding the foods that kids should or should not eat. While some believe that adopting a no-candy eating plan is crucial, others think that there is no need to worry about foods as long as the kids are maintaining a healthy weight. Ideal compromise would involve healthy cereals for breakfast and an occasional unhealthy snack. However, if you are facing difficulties in reaching a consensus, opt for an interesting strategy suggested by Dr. Maldonado. If mom is making breakfast, she decides what to serve. If it’s dad’s turn, it will be his call.

• In situations where you can’t decide a middle ground, ask for suggestions from a friend of friend counselor. Opinion of a neutral person regarding the implementation of parenting style in a particular situation can help you to see the problem in a new light.

Conflicts, while bringing up the kids are common, so are mistakes. Accept any situation in a positive way and you will come up with creative ways of dealing with it.

Parenting Tips – How to Beat Baby Blues: Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:37:00 +0000

In our previous post, we discussed the importance of reconnecting with your partner to beat baby blues. While this parenting tip helps you to make a strong bond with your partner and bring harmony in the family, our next tip will surely help you to stay sane during the first few months of motherhood. As we have discussed, your life changes once you have a baby and so do your circle of friends. You can hardly make out time to hang out with same people once you have kids and vice versa. Your friends have their “things” to do while you have yours; the timetable too changes, depending on your baby’s schedule. You need to cope up with the baby-world. It an experience in itself, though this period can often become little frustrating.

Many moms feel lonely and isolated and in such case, you will need a close circle of friends to keep you sane. Better yet, make more mommy friends who share your interests. In fact, you should start making mommy friends during your pregnancy period; make friends at prenatal Yoga classes and birthing classes. Having a group of supportive female friends will help you to cope up with several emotional vicissitudes, especially if your partner stays at work most of the time. You can plan shopping with this group to buy baby stuff, visit the park together, join playgroups, and plan meet ups. Also, connect with the moms of other kids when your child starts going playschools.

In addition, plan some time out for your old friends. Once in a while, plan a ‘girl’s night’ with your old friends, and make sure to ask your partner or any other family member (you can get a babysitter as well) to take care of the baby in your absence. Share your stories to those empathetic ears, you will surely feel better.

Parenting Tips – How to Beat Baby Blues: Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:27:00 +0000

Everything changes when you become parent – the way you live, your priorities, needs and even your body. And with so many changes, you are likely to feel irritated and depressed. However, you can easily deal with such baby blues by following these parenting tips.

One of the most important parenting tips is to share responsibilities with your partner. The pregnancy itself is enough to make you feel tired, and after the baby is born, there are so many works to do that you are likely to become even more tired and feel irritated. This is the time when your partner should share some of the new responsibilities and allow you to have some for yourself. Whether it is changing the diapers at night or preparing the breakfast – make sure you give the new mother adequate time and opportunity to rest.

The new moms too should keep a stable, solid bond with their partners. This not only makes the family’s harmony, but can also make or break your moods. Try to bridge all the gaps and ease the tension, if there is any. Just like everything else, babies can even change relationships. Make sure you are not neglecting your partner, even if you have to spend much time and focus on your baby. Spend quality time and listen to your partner. You can do some of the daily chores together, or take some time away from the baby to renew that bond with your partner. Go for shopping together or just get out once in a week and ask a family member to take care of the baby while you are away.

Tips to Enjoy a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:20:00 +0000

Becoming a mother can be one of the greatest joys experienced by a woman. The nine months of pregnancy is a crucial period and it is important to take care in the right manner to ensure that you enjoy a healthy and happy pregnancy. We provide few pregnancy tips that will keep you and your baby safe, secured and comfortable during this time.

• Opt for a healthy diet. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, juices. Avoid junk, artificial and processed foods.

• A good pregnancy tip is to drink as much water as possible. Keep yourself well hydrated throughout the day.

• Spend your time by taking rest, reading and doing light exercises. Consult your doctor regarding the kind of exercises routines that will be safe for you. If you are a working person, avoid over-stressing yourself at your workplace.

• Educate yourself regarding pregnancy, childbirth and baby care. Search for parenting and pregnancy tips on the Internet or grab a useful book.

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions whenever you are advised to take any test. Remember that you not only have the right, but also the responsibility to know how these tests will affect you and your baby.

• Spend more time with your partner. Go for a walk; watch movies, read pregnancy books-in brief, find ways to communicate with him. Remember that healthy bonding and understanding between the parents is crucial for the child’s emotional growth.

It is important to enjoy your pregnancy, rather than stressing about. Follow these tips and enjoy the best time of your life.

Tips to Save Money on Baby Items

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:50:00 +0000

All parents want the best baby stuff for their kids. However, once you start calculating the costs of clothing, nurturing and feeding your baby, you will realize that the best does not always come at a cheap price. However, that does not mean that you need to compromise as far as qualities of baby items are concerned. We provide few tips regarding how you can save money on baby stuffs.

• Many pregnant women are given one or two baby showers. Don’t buy too much baby clothing, stuffs before the shower, and wait for the gifts. You may realize that you need to buy less baby items than what you had initially planned. Remember that if you have a fixed budget, it is better to delay the buying of gifts for your baby as much as possible. The reason is that the earlier you begin purchasing the baby stuff, the more you will end up buying.

• If you have a limited budget, it is fine to buy few second hand baby stuffs such as swings, tables etc. However, make sure that they are clean and are completely safe for your baby. Avoid buying staffs such a used car, since there is no way to know if it has been in any accident and the safety features have been updated or not.

• Sign up at various baby care websites to avail discount coupons and free baby items. In addition, buying baby stuffs in bulk will help you in your overall savings.

Adhering to the above-mentioned tips will help you to stick to your budget and pamper your kid with the best baby items.

Pregnancy Tips for Working Women

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:39:00 +0000

For modern women, being pregnant and managing the office can be a challenging task. While it is safe to work during this time, it is crucial to remember few tips to ensure that you enjoy a smooth and stress-free pregnancy. We provide few useful pregnancy tips for the working women.

• It is normal to feel tired and fatigued during pregnancy. If you have been eating too much of junk, it is time to cut back these foods. Choose a diet plan that consists of fruits, vegetables, nuts, lean meat etc.

• Try to take short and frequent breaks at your workplace. This will help your body and mind to relax.

• Cut down your daily activities. For example, shop online or hire anyone for doing the housework.

• Maintaining a regular fitness routine is another good pregnancy tip that you can consider. However, ask your doctor about the kind of exercises that will be safe for you during this time. Remember that physical activities will enhance your mood and boost your energy level, especially if your work requires you to sit at the desk at a stretch.

• Try to sleep for 7-8 hours every night while you are pregnant. For more comfort, you can place pillows under your belly or between the legs.

• Avoid working for long hours and learn to relax. Try relaxation techniques such as imagining yourself in a calm place or taking deep breaths.

Talk to your doctor if you face any kind of discomfort during your pregnancy. Together you can decide whether you need to take any special precaution during your pregnancy or modify your work duties. Stay healthy and happy!

Buying Baby Strollers

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:20:00 +0000

One of the “must-haves” while preparing for the new baby is the baby strollers. A popular baby shower gift, these strollers usually make high on the list of things that your family and friends want to buy for your little darling. Since baby strollers are highly personal buying decisions, you must do a great deal of research before actually buying one.

One of the most important factors that you need to consider is comfortability. Since your child will spend a lot of time in the baby strollers, you must make sure that the seats are cozy and secure. It is better to for strollers that come with extra soft cushions. Also, take a test run in the store. This will help you to understand how they open and fold. Ask the salesperson to demonstrate how to maneuver the baby stroller while using only one arm. You can opt for models that have adjustable handles. You will find this extremely helpful, especially if one of the caregivers is significantly taller than the rest. For the busy moms, it is ideal to opt for baby strollers that fold with little effort.

In addition, consider the way this baby furniture compacts down for storage. The strollers must be compact enough so that it can be stored in the car trunk along with the groceries and other cargos. For those who are buying a baby stroller as a baby shower gift, make sure you are aware of the parent’s choice. Ask them if they already have any particular model in mind. Apart from the traditional strollers that have many rooms for packages and bags to use while shopping, there are some baby strollers designed specifically for exercising and jogging. You may also find strollers that are easy to use while traveling.

Tips to Save Money on Baby Items

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:55:00 +0000

• Many pregnant women are given one or two baby showers. Don’t buy too much baby clothing, stuffs before the shower, and wait for the gifts. You may realize that you need to buy less baby items than what you had initially planned. Remember that if you have a fixed budget, it is better to delay the buying of gifts for your baby as much as possible. The reason is that the earlier you begin purchasing the baby stuff, the more you will end up buying.

• If you have a limited budget, it is fine to buy few second hand baby stuffs such as swings, tables etc. However, make sure that they are clean and are completely safe for your baby. Avoid buying staffs such a used car, since there is no way to know if it has been in any accident and the safety features have been updated or not.

• Sign up at various baby care websites to avail discount coupons and free baby items. In addition, buying baby stuffs in bulk will help you in your overall savings.

All the above-mentioned tips will help you to stick to your budget and pamper your kid with the best baby items.

Fun and Practical Baby Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:35:00 +0000

Many people feel at a loss when it comes to intriguing and functional gifts for new parents. We suggest few baby stuffs that will be loved by the kid and the parents as well.

Bouncy Seat – Bouncy seat is one gift that will allow the baby to move to the heart’s content and the parents to pack in few chores knowing that he/ she is safe and entertained. This baby gear comes with a bright-colored fabric that provides a cheerful look and straps to ensure that the kid never falls off.

Baby Monitor – This functional baby stuff monitors the child’s breath from a range of 600 feet and more. This is particularly comforting for people whose baby sleeps in another room. Some new models come with motion sensors that raise an alarm if kid hasn’t shifted his/ her position within a certain period. Some also have video monitors, which allow the parents to see and hear the baby.

Baby Sling – Another cool gift can be the baby sling that is ideal perfect for the mom who loves to carry her child around. The kid will remain in close physical touch with the mom, while allowing her to do housework or run an errand.

Bath Kit – Bath kit can be termed as a fun and practical baby gift. Include a mild soap, baby shampoo, a towel and a soft washcloth. You can also add baby comb and brush to make the kit more attractive.

Choose from any of the above-mentioned baby stuffs and you will be appreciated for your thoughtfulness.

Pregnancy can Make You Smarter

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:43:00 +0000

The University of Richmond conducted a recent study along with Randolph-Macon College in Virginia to prove that brainpower of a pregnant woman do not at all decline during pregnancy. Along with humans, neuroscientists of these two institutions examined the activities of pregnant rats and mice. There was a significant growth in mental acuity and memory of all three subjects. This growth prevailed throughout pregnancy as well as after giving birth.

During this study, it was observed that pregnant women showed improved sense of smell and increased visual acuity. The neuroscientists found that during pregnancy and breastfeeding the body releases hormone oxytocin, which contribute directly to this increased brainpower. This hormone oxytocin directly affects the structure of your brain. This, in turn, results in improved brain communication.

It also causes increased dendrites. The number of dendrites doubles in pregnant women; dendrites are defined as the connections in the brain that facilitates neurons to communicate with one another. And with double number of dendrites, the different areas of the brain of a pregnant woman communicate better, making her a smart woman. The number of glial cells, which is important for brain communication, too doubles in the brain of a would-be mother. Glial cells act as signal transmitters for various areas of your brain.

This study also revealed that this added brainpower usually appears to be permanent. This improved brain cognition and increased memory retention continue throughout motherhood. Parenting also allows a woman to become less fearful, increasingly motivated, and more empathetic. In addition, motherhood makes a woman better in multitasking and prioritizing.

Parenting Tips: How Long Should You Breastfeed Your Child

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:34:00 +0000

Mothers take different approaches while breastfeeding their child; some breastfed for six months while others none at all. However, some mothers have taken their doctor’s recommendation and continued to breastfed their children for almost three years. Breastfeeding, as science has proven, increases immunity and helps to create important antibodies that enable our babies to grow to their maximum potential. It also helps the mother to prevent breast cancer. And for the figure conscious mothers, breastfeeding helps the body to be back into pre-baby shape.

Therefore, we can safely say that breastfeeding the baby for an extended period is the best thing that a mother can do for herself and her child. While giving this parenting tip, let us also tell you that by feeding the babies with only breast milk during the first six months of their life, mothers can actually save the lives of around 1.2 million children every year. And by simply extending the practice for two years and beyond, the development and health of millions of babies will be improved by a great extent. It has been proved that babies, who were deprived of breast milk, suffered increased risk of illness and often had to compromise with their growth and development; it may even raise the risk of disability and death.

Mother’s milk is rich in antibodies, which protect baby from various illnesses. Babies can easily absorb and digest it. By following this parenting tip, you can also help your baby to reduce the risk of allergies such as allergic rhinitis, eczema and asthma. Some researchers have also proved that babies who were breastfed for an extended period have less chance to become obese or develop diabetes in later years.

Considering all these studies, it is advisable to breastfeeding your child for a longer period (at least a minimum of 1 year) to help them have a healthy and better life.

Travel Safe During Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 07:55:00 +0000

Many people believe that traveling during pregnancy can be harmful. However, the fact remains is that traveling is safe for most pregnant women (except those who are experiencing high-risk pregnancy) and it hardly matters whether you are traveling by plane, boat or car. Adhering to few special tips while you are pregnant will help you to travel safely and comfortably. Read on to know more.

• Inform your doctor that you are planning to travel and ask for advice and suggestions. Inquire about any test that you need to take before your trip and what precautions you should take during while traveling.

• Prepare a list of important names and contact numbers that you may need in case of any emergency and put it in your carry-on luggage. If you are going through your second or third trimester, carry a copy of prenatal chart as well. This chart must include your expected date, age, results of the pregnancy-related tests and your medical history. In addition, do not forget to carry the necessary medicines and vitamins while you are traveling.

• Hunger is a constant companion once you are pregnant and to ensure that you always remain well nourished, carry plenty of snacks with you. These may include fruits, nuts, cereal bars.

• When you are pregnant, it is important to drink loads of water. Long trips by road or air may leave you dehydrated. To avoid this problem, always carry a bottle of water with you. Drink it at regular intervals and stay well hydrated.

• While traveling, wear loose and comfortable dresses. It is not always possible to control the temperature while you are traveling. To avoid discomfort, carry a light shawl.

Following these few tips will ensure that you travel safely and comfortably, while being pregnant.

Keep Mood Swings at Bay During Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 07:44:00 +0000

Almost every woman undergoes mood swings during her pregnancy. The reason is that the hormonal changes that take place during this time affect neurotransmitters levels (chemical messengers in the brain). This, in turn, leads to mood swings. Emotions can range from constantly worrying about the baby to feelings of joy and excitement. We provide with few tips that will help moms-to-be to cope with their mood swings effectively.

• Recognize the fact that emotional upheaval during pregnancy is common and all women have to deal with it. Have a frank discussion with your partner and share with him your anxieties and mood swings. In addition, encourage him to share his feelings and opinions. Spend quality time together and nurture your relationship constantly. Bonding with your partner will help you to enjoy this phase of life and will strengthen your relationship further.

• Rather than allowing frustration to dominate your life, find out ways how you can manage it. Stick to a healthy diet, exercise regularly, go for walks, spend time with your friends and family-in brief, do things that you love.

• Avoid doing too much of chores. It is crucial to pamper oneself during pregnancy. You may feel tempted to reorganize the closets, set up the baby’s room-all in a day’s time, but take things easy. Over-stressing yourself may prove to be fatal for your physical and emotional health.

• It is advised to educate oneself about motherhood and pregnancy. Often, fear of the unknown heightens stress and anxiety. Gathering knowledge about childbirth, newborn baby and parenting will help you to feel secured and confident. Read a book, search for information online or talk to your doctor about parenting and pregnancy.

Mood swings are an inevitable part of pregnancy and you should have a frank talk with your loved ones regarding this. Pregnancy is a life-changing experience and women need all the support to enjoy a healthy and happy pregnancy.

Pregnancy and Nutrition

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 06:56:00 +0000

Nutrition during pregnancy is one of the most important factors that affect the baby’s growth and development. There are certain foods that are good for the child, whereas some are not. The would-be moms must make good nutrition a priority and learn to balance their meals. Also, remember that you are eating for the two of you, so eat food that is sufficient for both. Generally, your tolerance for eating as well as the nutritional needs change during the different trimesters of the pregnancy. During this period, you must eat balanced meals and drink lots of water. In addition, skipping meals must be avoided and eliminate caffeine intake.

One of the most important nutrients for would-be moms is protein. Adult women should take 100g of protein daily; add another 10 grams a day if you are expecting a child. Protein is commonly found in foods such as milk, meats, cottage cheese, eggs, seeds and cereal grains, and legumes. Another important mineral that you need to include in the daily diet is calcium. Doctors usually recommend 1,200 mg of calcium intake during pregnancy. Foods such as cheese, beans, pudding and ice milk, skim milk, salmon, yogurt, kale, and broccoli are good sources of calcium. Vegan moms can include soymilk in their regular diet. During pregnancy period, one bottle of soymilk supplies 1/3rd of the daily requirements of calcium and vitamin D.

Doctors also prescribe folic acid for the would-be moms. It helps to develop the fetal brain and spine of the baby and is especially important during the early period of pregnancy. One must take daily 400 micrograms of folic acid throughout their pregnancy. Apart from including foods that are rich in folic acid (tofu, fortified cereals, corn, dried-beans, squash, and peanuts and peanut butter), the would-be moms may need to take a prenatal vitamin or multi-vitamin to meet this requirement.

Shop Around for Comfortable Baby Diapers

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 06:41:00 +0000

For any new parent, choosing the right baby apparels usually becomes an overwhelming and confusing duty, especially when it comes to diapers. With the market overflowing with different kinds of diapers (disposable and cloth diapers), parents often wonder which one would be the best for their baby. We provide few tips that will make your task easier.

• It is advised to consult the doctor regarding what kind of diapers would be perfect for your baby. This is particularly crucial for all those who have become parents for the first time. Alternatively, you can also ask for suggestions from other parents.

• Cotton baby diapers are ideal for parents who have a limited budget and do not lead a busy life (since they need to be washed regularly). People who do not have the time to wash the diaper frequently, on the other hand, can choose disposable diapers.

• It is important to buy a good quality diaper since it is a matter of comfort for the baby. In addition, hygienic issues are associated with it. Remember that costly diapers do not necessarily indicate high quality. Go for a diaper that fits well, comfortable and does not leak.

• It is recommended not to change the brand of the diaper too frequently as this may cause rashes or other skin problems. The baby’s skin is sensitive and changing the diaper’s brand too frequently (and without any reason) may lead to allergic rash.

• Opt for bigger diapers so that the baby can move round freely. However, it must not be so big that it falls off. Choose a size that is comfortable for the baby.

It is important to do some research before you buy the perfect diaper for your baby. Put in some effort and you will never have to worry about your baby’s health.

Top Baby Name Trends for 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 11:01:00 +0000

It's a new year and we're making our predictions for the baby names that'll rise to the top of the charts in 2011! See which names we're putting our money on and add your own predictions below!

* Mama mia! Italian names are on the rise! While Isabella overtook Emily and Emma for top of the charts in 2010, Sophia will be making a debut at #1 sometime in the near future. Will it be 2011? Other names with Italiana flare for the new year: Gia, Gianna, Lucia, Giuliana and Roma/Romy.

* "Little old man" names aren't just for grandpas anymore! As parents search for something dignified yet not too kooky, look for old-timey names like Warren, Arthur, Walter and Stanley to make comebacks.

* The O's have it! Last year, anything with an X in it was hot stuff! This year, everyone wants to rock the O sound with names like: Orion, Otto, and Orson for boys and Olive and Ophelia for girls. Names that end in "O," like Hugo, Milo and Valentino, are also hot with today's hip parents.

* The trend of picking your kid's nickname first will be taking root in 2011. Love Ella? Name your girl Eloise! Want a Sonny? Call him Emerson! Finn? Phineas! You get the idea!

* Short names will still make the short list this year! But instead of popular short names like Jack, Max, Ava and Mia, look for ringers like Bram, Quinn, Mae and Bree in 2011!

* Teetotaling will be totally hot in 2011—at least when it comes to baby names! Look for the out-of-the-ordinary Temperance (which means "moderation," as in the "Temperance movement") to hit the charts this year for the first time EVER. Other virtuous names to watch? Patience, Liberty and Felicity.

* Remember when tons of celeb parents were naming their baby girls Daisy for its vintage farm-girl appeal? Well, move over Daisy, 'cause this year it's all about Maisie. We're also betting on other names with farm-friendly appeal, like Daphne, Sadie, Elsie, Elsa and Fiona.

* You can thank Mad Men for the upcoming '50s and '60s name trend that will be the rage among new parents. Think retro-chic baby names such as Lane, Archie, Henry and Sterling for the hip cats and Joan, Faye, Jane, Betty and Trudy for the dolls.

* Parents will get riskier with nature names this year! Watch out for a "green movement" in baby naming with more unusual earthy names like Basil, Reed, Fox, Dahlia, Flora, June and January.

* It used to be that a character with a name like Bud Bundy was something to laugh at, but in 2011, hip parents will be picking winning names like Tripp, Duke, Buddy, Beau/Bo, Lucky, Ace, Sonny, Junior and Buster for their baby boys. Hey, it worked for World Series-winning baseball player Buster Posey!

Source: http://www.parentsconnect.com