Bitty Banana Bean

Dye-Free Easter Eggs

2011-04-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

Personally, I love dying eggs! But here are some adorable alternatives if you want to go dye-free!

Words That Stick Use foam alphabet stickers to add playful phrases to eggs for the Easter breakfast buffet. $4; joann.com

Beautiful Blooms

For an Easter decoration you can use year after year, have kids cut flowers from paper napkins and découpage them onto ceramic eggs.
What you'll need: Floral paper napkins, scissors, foam brush, Elmer's glue, blown-out or ceramic egg, small roll of tape
Make it: Cut flowers or desired design from paper napkins. If using 2-ply napkins, peel away the thin white paper backing from the cutout napkin pieces (this will make it easier to glue to the egg). Use a foam brush to apply glue to half of the egg, then press a napkin flower on top and cover with a thin layer of glue. Add more napkin flowers, one by one, making sure to brush the top of each with glue. Place the half covered egg on the roll of tape and let dry for about 15 minutes, then repeat for the other half of the egg. When completely covered, set the egg on roll of tape and let it dry overnight.

Egg Heads Make Easter a family affair. Disguise shells by drawing on facial features and adding yarn hair and hats.

Funny Farm Transform eggs into Easter icons with a little felt and a lot of imagination.

Funny Farm:Bunny

What you'll need: Felt, marker, scissors, craft glue, blown-out or ceramic egg, small white pom-pom, extra small pink pom-pom, pink yarn, hair spray, bottle cap
Make it: To make the outer ear shapes, trace your child's thumb onto pink felt twice. To make the inner ear shapes, trace your child's pinky finger onto white felt twice. Cut all of the ear shapes out, then glue the inner ear shape on top of the outer ear shape, making sure to leave about ¼" at the bottom unattached, and set aside to dry. In the meantime, cut three 1-inch pieces of yarn and spray with hair spray to stiffen; let dry. Rest the egg in the bottle cap and apply two small dots of glue to the top, about ½" apart, and gently separate the unattached part of each bunny ear and press down on the glue dots. When yarn is dry, twist the pieces together in the middle and glue to the front of the egg, about halfway down. Attach the extra small pink pompom on top of the yarn whiskers for a nose. Glue the whit

Funny Farm: Chick

What you'll need: Felt, marker, scissors, craft glue, blown-out or ceramic egg, bottle cap
Make it: Download, print, and cut out the feather templates. Trace templates onto felt and cut out. Glue the diamond-shaped piece of felt onto the top of the egg. Apply a thin line of glue along the bottom of the pointy piece and press along the length of the diamond-shaped piece; let dry. Cut a small triangle from felt, bend in half, and glue the bottom half onto the front of the egg for a beak. Draw two small dots above the beak for eyes. Let dry completely.
e pompom to the back of the egg for a tail. Use a marker to draw eyes on the bunny, then draw a mouth. (Tip: draw the letter J then add a loop on the other side.) Leave the bunny on the bottle cap to dry overnight.

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Sweet Diaper Cupcakes

2011-04-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

Today my Etsy Deal of the Day are these adorable Sweet Diaper Cupcakes. What a cute gift idea for a shower or new baby!!

Also, check out this sellers shop on Etsy.com, There is the cutest stuff!! Mod Diaper Cupcakes

Ingredients:

* 8 "Pampers Swaddlers" brand diapers size 1 (8-14lbs.)
* 4 Washcloths.
* Crochet Cherries.
* Cupcake liner.
* White Bakery Box.

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: Mod Diaper Cupcakes
Price: $15
Direct Link: Sweet Diaper Cupcakes

10 Things You Need to Know About the New USDA Guidelines

2011-04-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

Dietary Guidelines from the USDA

The USDA just released a document outlining new eating guidelines for Americans. But just what do these guidelines mean and how can we incorporate them in our everyday eating habits?
We break it down for you and provide recipes that will help you eat healthier in 2011.
Check out the full report!

Lower Your Sodium

Lowering your sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (about 1 teaspoon) is one of the key recommendations. For people who already have hypertension, diabetes, and other illnesses, this number drops to less than 1500 mg a day.
Try our recipe for Low-Sodium Stir Fry Try our recipe for Fresh Tomato Pizza

Make the Switch to Fat-Free or 1% Milk

Only babies and children under 2 should be drinking whole milk. Everyone else should switch to low-fat or fat-free milk products.
Get the recipe for Real Strawberry Milk Get the recipe for Sunrise Parfaits

Eat More Seafood

Increase seafood consumption (both the amount and the variety should be increased) and reduce consumption of other animal products.
Get the recipe for Mixed Greens and Seafood Salad Get the recipe for Zesty Fish Soup

Consume More Whole Grains

At least half the grains you consume should be whole grains. Do this by replacing refined grains with whole grains.
Get the recipe for Whole Grain Hummus Sandwich with Veggies Get the recipe for Five Grain Pancake Mix Get the recipe for Whole Wheat Rolls

Cut Down on Saturated Fats

Consume less than 10 percent of calories from saturated fatty acids. This means that we need to cut down consumption of animal products, dairy, eggs and also of processed foods (trans fats hide under the guise of hydrogenated oil in processed foods). We need to replace these with good fats like monounsaturated fatty acids (found in walnuts, pistachios, avocadoes and olive oil) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (found in salmon, fish oil, safflower oil etc).
Get the recipe for Avocado Salsa Get the recipe for Spicy Hoisin Salmon Get the recipe for Apple Walnut Baby Puree

Lower Your Dietary Cholesterol Consumption

Consume less than 300 mg per day of dietary cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol comes from animal and dairy products but not from fruits and vegetables. So basically this means less meat and more plants!
Get the recipe for Hot Vegetable Curry Get the recipe for Greek-Style Roasted Vegetables Get the recipe for Vegetable Medley

Reduce Added Sugars

Read nutrition labels to look for added sugars. Beware! Added sugars often "hide" behind less common monikers. Look for these varieties in your ingredient list: brown sugar, corn sweetener, corn syrup, dextrose, fructose, fruit juice concentrates, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, honey, invert sugar, lactose, maltose, malt syrup, molasses, raw sugar, sucrose, and syrup.

Fight Fat

Use oils to replace solid fats like butter, tallow, shortening and margarine.
Get the recipe for Reduced Fat Mac Get the recipe for Yam and Jam Muffins

Eat More Fruit

Nearly everyone can stand to increase their fruit intake. The USDA recommends about four 1/2-cup servings of fruit a day.
Get the recipe for Fruit Sundae Cones Get the recipe for Fall Fruit Compote Get the recipe for Fruit and Cheese Kabobs

Eat Your Vegetables!

Increase your intake of vegetables including leafy greens, peas, and other brightly colored veggies.

Copyright © 2011 Meredith Corporation.
All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

Source: parents.com

First Birthday Party Favor Ideas: Homemade Hand-Dipped Chocolate Covered Oreos!

2011-04-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

With my daughter's first birthday party rapidly approaching, I'm in party planning mode and thought I'd share some of my ideas. For her party favors, I'm toying with the idea of Hand-Dipped Chocolate Covered Oreos. They are so pretty and I can't imagine taste delicious!

Buy these online! $1.45 each

I am going to attempt to do these myself. Here is a "how to" I found:

Instructions

1 # Molding Chocolate (vegetable oil based)
16 Oreo cookies
Dipping fork (found at most craft stores)
Wax paper
Microwave proof bowls
1. Lay wax paper out on your work surface, and remove cookies from their packaging, removing or eating any broken ones.
2. Melt molding chocolate in a microwave safe bowl on medium heat. Microwave for 1 minute the first time and then for 20 second increments until chocolate is almost melted. Remove from microwave and stir till last small pieces are melted. Molding Chocolate should be around 100- 110 degrees
3. Drop and Oreo in the bowl of chocolate, and flip it over with your dipping fork.
4. Lift your cookie out of the chocolate with the dipping fork and shake off excess chocolate by lightly tapping the base of the fork on the side of the bowl.
5. Place the cookie on the wax paper and allow the cookies to dry till solid. At least 10-15 minutes.
6. Decorate the cookies by melting more molding chocolate in your color of choice in a microwave proof bowl as per the directions in step two above. Place this melted chocolate in a small snack size plastic bag and cut off a small tip of one corner. Use this bag to drizzle a design across the cookies in your pattern of choice. Have fun with this part and use your imagination!
So, we'll see how they turn out!

As for packaging them, I'm going to buy Plain white or pink take out boxes, put a colorful sticker on them and use my other theme colors (bright blue, lime green and pale yellow) as tissue paper, topped with a cute ribbon, I'm hoping they will turn out cute! I'll post pictures when finished!

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Infant Pique Dress Pink w/ White

2011-04-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is this cute custom pink dress! Just in time for Easter!

Lightweight cotton pique and rick rack trim make these dresses perfect for a picnic or a portrait.
Add a monogram for a perfectly classic look.

Complete your outfit by adding the matching diaper cover.

By Princess Linens.

Choose a size:
0-6 months up to 26", 12-17 lbs.
6-12 months 26-29", 17-22 lbs.
12-18 months 29-31", 22-27 lbs.
24 months 31-33", 27-30 lbs.

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: Lilly Kat's Apparel
Price: $40
Direct Link: Infant Pique Dress Pink w/ White

April Fools! 15 April Fools' Day pranks for your family

2011-04-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

In honor of April fools day, here are some ways to fool your family...all in good fun!

Got (Blue) Milk?
Put a few drops of food coloring in a pitcher of milk (choose your kid's fave shade). Make sure she's watching when you nonchalantly fix her morning bowl of cereal!

Breakfast Bait and Switch
Swap out sugar for salt and watch Dad put it in his morning cup of coffee. (Have a second, non-salted cup ready to go though).
For more morning fun, take out cereal bags and put them in mismatching boxes. See how long it takes for everyone to find their favorite cereal.

Bedtime Switcheroo
Moms, wait until your kids are asleep, and then switch them in their beds. Or, quietly swap around their dresser drawers. Make sure you're there when they wake up in the morning to take in their surprised expressions.

Really, Really Cold Cereal
Put water in a cereal bowl, and freeze overnight. The next morning, offer to fix Dad or your kids a bowl of cereal. Pour the cereal on top of the ice, completely covering it, and watch them try to dig in.

Mouse Malfunction
This one's good for the kid who checks his e-mail first thing every morning: Put part of a post-it note over the tracking ball on a computer mouse -- it won't work! (Make sure to write "April Fools!" on the note).

Backwards Dinner
Serve up a topsy-turvy dinner to throw your kids for a loop: bake meatloaf in a 12-cup muffin tin and frost with mashed potatoes for a "cupcakes" dinner -- bonus if you add food coloring to the spuds. Then toast strips of pound cake for a dessert of "French fries". Don't forget red-tinted frosting for ketchup!

If the Shoe Fits
Bunch up TP and stuff it in the toe of the victim's shoes. They'll wonder why their shoes suddenly don't fit.

Drink Up Mix-Up
Add a squirt of lemon juice to a glass of water when your kid's not looking, then wait for his sour face. Or, color water to mimic fruit punch or juice, and switch out the real drink for the dyed H2O.

Disciplinary Action
For an older kid who can handle it: When your kid comes home from school, tell her a teacher or the principal called to discuss your kid's bad behavior. Let them know the gag's up when you see them start sweating.

Drip, Drip, Drip
Use a pin to make a few small holes in a plastic disposable cup, and make sure to put it back on the top of the stack. Watch as Dad gets a drink and it ends up all over his shirt.
P.S.: Make sure it's a drink that doesn't stain, or the joke's really on whoever has to do the laundry!

Picture This
Take a screenshot of the desktop of Dad's computer, and leave the image open. Sit back and let him freak out for a few minutes, believing the computer is frozen.

Hands On
Tell the kids you are banning all utensils -- hide them the night before, too. Then watch as everyone has fun eating with their hands. Little kids especially will love a break from being told they must use their fork.

Chain Reaction
Sneak into Daddy's underwear drawer and safety pin all of his undies together side by side. When he pulls out one pair, they all come out!

Backwards Day
Your kids know: tags go in back -- but not today! For April Fools', let them have a backwards day, with tops, pants and dresses all worn reverse-style.

DIY Daylight Saving Time
Set all the clocks in the house an hour or two early -- then ease the blow of an early wake-up by taking the kiddos out for breakfast.

Source: Parenting.com

Celebrity Parents of Twins!

2011-03-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

So, the twin trend is crazy lately in celeb world! Is there something in the water? Here are 13 Celebrity parents of twins...

Julia Roberts

Roberts, who gave birth to Phinnaeus Walter and Hazel Patricia in November 2004 (singleton son Henry arrived June 2007) may be Hollywood's glam girl, but with her kids, she's just Mom. Proof in point: the streak of pink hair she sported to a charity in late '08, which was the handiwork of little Hazel.

J. Lo and Marc Anthony
Giving your twins names with shared initials isn't new, but we like the twist taken by Marc Anthony and J.Lo, who named their twins, born February 2008, Max and Emme. Emme, while not an "M" name, is tied to Max in a unique, subtle way.

Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick

SJP used a surrogate to welcome twin girls Marion Loretta Elwell and Tabitha Hodge Broderick in June 2009, joining big brother James Wilkie, born in October 2002. It only seems right that the style icon has daughters; can you imagine the dress-up sessions in this mom's closet?

Ricky Martin

La vida loca got a little more loca when Martin welcomed twin sons Matteo and Valentino via surrogate in August 2008. The boys did more than just make him a dad; they also inspired him to be true to himself and come out of the closet in March 2010.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

It's easy to lose track, but somewhere in that big Jolie/Pitt brood is a set of two. Fraternal twins Vivienne Marcheline and Knox Leon were born in July 2008, bringing the family head count to 8.

Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell

Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell welcomed twin girls Dolly Rebecca Rose and Charlie Tamara Tulip into the world in late December 2008, but say they're drawing the line at two. "We feel like the world was made for pairs. Four feels like the perfect number," Romijn told People magazine.

Holly Robinson and Rodney Peete

Not only do Holly Robinson and Rodney Peete have double trouble with twins Rodney and Ryan (in addition to daughter Ryan and son Robinson) -- they found out they had a bit more on their plate when Rodney Jr. was diagnosed with autism.

Julie Bowen
Modern Family actress Julie Bowen has mastered the "double football hold" to breastfeed her baby boys John and Gus simultaneously. Bowen, who also has an older son Oliver (2) with real estate investor husband Scott Phillips, captured a shot to show the audience of The View, but the producers nixed it. Fortunately, George Lopez was more than happy to show a blown-up version in the background of his interview with Bowen. "Those twins are lucky," he told her.

Lisa Marie Presley

After struggling with infertility, the King's daughter says she took blood thinners and instantly conceived daughters Finley and Harper with husband Michael Lockwood. The twins, born in October 2008, join half-sibs Riley and Benjamin.

Marcia Cross

While many celebs stay tight-lipped about fertility treatments, Cross has been open about the fact that she used IVF to conceive twin daughters, Eden and Savannah, born in February 2007.

Kate Gosselin

When most people think of Kate Gosselin, they think sextuplets. It's easy to forget, though, that Gosselin and ex-husband Jon were once parents to just Mady and Cara, born in October 2000.

Mia Hamm and Nomar Garciaparra

It doesn't necessary take the energy of a world-class soccer player and professional baseball player to raise twin daughters, but it sure doesn't hurt. "There are challenges," she told People magazine. "In the early morning, you're thinking 'Man, I could really use another half hour of sleep.' But you go in and it's those smiles; they look at you like you're a superhero."

Diana Krall and Elvis Costello

We bet these kids get some awesome lullabies. Twin boys Dexter Henry Lorcan and Frank Harlem James were born to the musical duo in December 2006. Krall (not pictured) told People that twins run in her family -- and that she's not into dressing them in matchy-matchy outfits.

Source: parenting.com

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Monogrammed Pacifier Clip Set

2011-03-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

Today my Etsy Deal of the Day: a very adorable monogrammed pacifier clip set!!

No more missing pacifiers for your posh tot! These clips are made with trendy, stylish cotton fabric not flimsy ribbon. Moms and babies will both be happy and who says they can't be stylish? Use these to clip pacifiers to clothing, toys, stroller, car seat... anywhere you want! Pair this trendy pacifier clip with a matching bib and burp cloth or blanket to make the perfect baby gift.

**When checking out please include the following:
1. Number of the fabrics you would like for your clips.
2. Universal or Snap closure (snap closure will only fit nuk and avent while universal will fit all brands)
3. Name you want monogrammed.
If you do not specify universal or snap closure I will send them universal so they will fit all brands of pacifiers.

Any fabric you see in my store is available!
Just let me know the number you choose. If you see a fabric in the store not listed on the sheet just give me the name of the fabric.

Fabric and Measurements:
Clips are with made cotton fabric, and a lead free, nickel clip with plastic teeth, so it won't snag clothing, but will still hold tight. Each clip measures approximately 9 inches long when paci is snapped on and is 1 inch wide.

Buyer assumes full responsibility of using this clip. As with any clip, do not leave child unattended while using any pacifier clip

While you are checking out The Posh Tots be sure to look for coordinating items including bibs, burp cloths, boutique blankets, ribbon loveys and washies for your posh tot!

Thanks for checking out The Posh Tots!***Placement of name will be vertical, down the front of the pacifier clip, just as shown in the pictures.

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: theposhtots
Price: $28.50
Direct Link: Monogrammed Pacifier Clip Set

Babyproofing-4 common threats

2011-03-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

StockByte/ Veer

Threat: Choking and Suffocation

Choking and suffocation are the leading cause of fatal accidents in kids under 1 year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Consider taking an infant CPR class, just in case.
Safety First
Crawl around on the floor, at baby level. Clear away any small objects he could put into his mouth, such as coins, beads, plastic bags, or popped balloons. "Anything that would fit through a toilet-paper tube could be a choking hazard," says Robin Wilcox, program director of Safe Kids Worldwide.
Avoid toys with eyes, buttons, or other pieces that she can yank off and swallow. And be careful with your older kids' toys, warns Barbara Gaines, M.D., director of the Benedum Pediatric Trauma Program at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Always put your baby to sleep on her back on a firm, flat mattress to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Make sure the crib sheet fits snugly, and don't let her sleep with pillows or other soft bedding or toys. If she rolls into them and can't lift her head, she can suffocate. When it's cold, put her in a one-piece sleep suit instead of a blanket.
Don't sleep with your infant. "We just don't know how to do it safely," says Rachel Moon, M.D., pediatrician and SIDS researcher at Children's National Medical Center, in Washington, D.C. She suggests putting a bassinet or a crib next to your bed to keep your baby close. "If you want to breastfeed or cuddle with your baby in bed, that's fine, as long as you're awake. Then put him down in the bassinet."
Keep the crib and changing table away from windows with cords that could get tangled around your baby's neck. If necessary, use cord cleats to keep them out of reach.

PhotoAlto/ Matton

Threat: Falls

Falling is the leading cause of nonfatal injury to babies under 12 months -- more than 100,000 infants are hurt every year.
Safety Steps
Don't leave your baby alone on a bed, a sofa, or any raised surface. Use safety straps on your changing table to keep him from rolling off.
Never put your baby's car seat on a table or counter.
Watch your step when carrying him. Get rid of throw rugs, or put grips under them so that you don't slip or trip.
Put a nonslip mat in the tub and on the floor next to it.
Use gates on stairs as soon as your baby can move around.

PhotoAlto/ Matton

Threat: Burns

This is the fourth-leading cause of both accidental deaths and injuries to infants under a year. Babies' skin is thinner and burns more deeply at a lower temperature than that of adults.
Safety Steps
House fires present the greatest danger, so install smoke detectors in every sleeping room and in adjacent hallways (there should be one on each floor) recommends Martin Simenc, president of Home Safety Services, a San Francisco babyproofing company. Check your batteries to make sure they're working, and change them once a year.
Don't carry hot food or drinks or use the stove while holding your baby.
Unplug and put away blow-dryers and irons after each use.
Set your home's hot-water heater to no more than 120° to reduce the chances of scalding. Always check the bathwater's temperature before putting your baby in it.

Buff Strickland

Threat: Poisoning

Even before your baby can turn over she can put things into her mouth -- more than a dozen infants died of poisoning in 2004. The smallest amount of a dangerous substance can affect her because she's so small, has a fast metabolism, and has low defenses against toxins.
Safety Steps
Lock cabinets and drawers that hold cleaning products, medications, and other potential poisons. Post the National Capital Poison Control Center's number (800-222-1222) on your fridge.
Houses built before 1978 can contain lead paint, which can be dangerous if it's flaking or peeling and a baby ingests it. The National Lead Information Center's Website (epa.gov/lead/pubs/nlic.htm) has info on how to remove or seal it.

PhotoAlto/ Matton

Listen Up

We found some of the best new baby monitors out there so that you can feel secure while your infant sleeps.
Summer Infant Day & Night Color Video Monitor with Baby's Crib Soother: The night-vision-equipped camera and 1.8" color LCD screen let you keep an eye on your baby while the soothing crib unit vibrates, plays nature sounds and lullabies, and glows like a night-light. ($200; babiesrus.com)
BébéSounds Easy-to-Hold Sound Monitor with Voice Activation and Sound Lights: This AC or battery-operated monitor has voice-activation technology to minimize background noise and LED sound-indicator lights to show you your baby's activity level. ($25; babyoffice.com)
Fisher-Price Ready2wear Monitor: Who needs to lug a bulky device around? This tiny digital monitor comes with an armband, belt clip, and docking station. ($60; fisher-price.com)

PhotoAlto/ Matton

Watch Out!

Thousands of infants are hurt every year in other kinds of accidents. "Our number-one recommendation is active supervision -- keep your eyes on your baby at all times," says Safe Kids Worldwide program director Robin Wilcox. Don't overlook these safety rules.
To keep tiny limbs from getting stuck, the gap between your baby's mattress and the side of the crib should be no more than two fingers' width. The space between the slats shouldn't be wider than a soda can.
Keep knives, glassware, and other sharp and breakable things well out of reach, preferably in a high or locked cabinet. That goes for cosmetics, medications, and even vitamins and perfume too.
Avoid using any place mats and tablecloths on your dining room table. Your baby can easily pull them -- and whatever hot foods or sharp objects that are resting on top of them -- right onto her lap.

Originally published in the July 2007 issue of Parents magazine.

Source: parenting.com

10 Celebrity Single Mom's

2011-03-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

I'm always a big fan of reading celebrity news and love seeing single mom's doing their thing...here are some great celebrity single moms!

We already knew actress Sandra Bullock had three stepkids from her marriage to Jesse James. But things changed quickly this year: first she won the Oscar for her role in The Blind Side, then discovered that her husband was cheating and subsequently filed for divorce, and finally revealed that she'd secretly adopted a baby boy, Louis Bardo, from New Orleans. All new moms deal with change, but Bullock handled life's curveballs with grace -- a trait that will make her a great mom.

Halle Berry

Proof that beauty doesn't always bring happiness, actress Halle Barry has been through two rocky marriages, so we were thrilled to hear her announce some good news in 2007: that she was pregnant by equally gorgeous model boyfriend Gabriel Aubrey. The couple welcomed daughter Nahla in 2008, but split in 2010, promising to keep things amicable for their daughter.

Kate Winslet

The Oscar-winning actress surprised everyone when she announced her separation from director husband Sam Mendes. Both called the split "extremely amicable" and it certainly looks that way since they since been seen together with the kids, Mia (9, Winslet's daughter from a previous marriage) and Joe (6).

Kate Hudson

After splitting with rocker Chris Robinson in 2006, and dating hot bachelors like Alex Rodriguez, Lance Armstrong and Owen Wilson, the number one man in actress Kate Hudson's life has always been her son Ryder, 5. Hudson and Robinson are still close; "For both Chris and me, our main focus is, and was, Ryder. And happy parents, happy baby," she told People magazine.

Padma Lakshmi
The gorgeous Top Chef host (and Salman Rushdie ex) stayed quiet about the identity of her baby's daddy during pregnancy, which she considered a "medical miracle" since she struggles with endometriosis. Soon after the birth of daughter Krishna, the father was revealed to be venture capitalist Adam Dell. We think Lakshmi, author of two cookbooks that emphasize spice, is the mom least likely to have a picky eater.

Michelle Williams

Single parenting is never easy, but it's got to be extra tough when your child's father passes away suddenly. Actress Michelle Williams handled the shocking death of her daughter Mathilda's father, actor Heath Ledger, with poise. She's tackling single motherhood in Brooklyn, and is often seen hanging around the nabe's coffee shops.

Katie Couric

Widowed in 1998 when her husband succumbed to colon cancer, TV journalist Katie Couric was left to raise daughters Ellie and Carrie, then ages 6 and 2, alone. Now, with two teenagers and a flourishing career as anchor for CBS Evening News, we think she's a stellar example for other single moms.

Minnie Driver

Mom to Henry Story, actress Minnie Driver has likened becoming the first year of parenthood to an "insane earthquake." The actress and singer has kept mum on the identity and relationship of Henry's father, but she did reveal that she goes online to get parenting advice from other moms.

Denise Richards

After a very public, very nasty divorce with Charlie Sheen, actress Denise Richards was granted full custody of daughters Sam (6) and Lola (4) in 2010, making her a single mom who calls all the shots. Richards seems to be a very hands-on mom, hanging with her kids at the playground and taking them to camp -- a far cry from her days as a sexy Bond Girl.

Liv Tyler
The Armageddon and Lord of the Rings star may not be racking up compliments from ex husband rocker Royston Langdon anymore, but she does have a special guy in her life to remind her how beautiful she is -- her son Milo, born in December 2004. "He likes to call me his princess. He says, 'Oh, Mommy, you're so cute. You're my precious, precious mommy,'" she told People. Aw.

Source: parents.com

10 Superfoods for Kids

2011-03-26T05:46:00.000-07:00

Get your kids addicted to these colorful, tasty, nutrient-packed superfoods, like blueberries, cocoa, cinnamon and more. It's a fact of life: Chips, cupcakes, and lots of other not-so-nutritionally-noble foods are going to find their way into your child's mouth. Heck, if left to their own devices, a lot of kids wouldn't eat anything that didn't come out of a pizza or pasta box. But that's all the more reason to make sure the meals you serve up are packed with as much good stuff as possible. Parenting went to Rachel Beller, R.D., founder of the Beller Nutritional Institute in Beverly Hills, CA, a mom of four, and an expert in eating for disease prevention, to get her top picks of true bite-for-bite nutritional powerhouses. Most important, they're also foods kids might actually eat. Add them to this week's shopping list!

Blueberries
They've ranked among the healthiest fruits for years (go, antioxidants!). Now research suggests that in addition to protecting against heart disease and diabetes and improving brain function, blueberries may also help reduce visceral "toxic" belly fat -- a type of fat that has been linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Ways to get them in your kid's diet: They're a natural go-with breakfast choice (say, tossed into a bowl of granola and milk) and are also great in summer salads and desserts. Try making ice pops by freezing a blend of whirred-up blueberries, yogurt, and some honey (after age 1).

Tofu
"Whole soy foods are an excellent source of lean protein and have potent anti-cancer benefits," says Beller. "Tofu is great for young girls because it has a protective effect as their bodies and breast tissue are developing -- which lasts into adulthood." Ways to get it in your kid's diet: Dice and toss tofu into stir-fries or soups; use the silken variety as a sub for yogurt in fruit smoothies; snack on lightly boiled and salted edamame (soybeans) -- the kids will have fun popping them out of the shells.

Tomatoes
They're loaded with lycopene -- a substance that protects against many cancers. Cooking tomatoes makes them even healthier because the heat releases the lycopene. Hint: Pairing tomato-y foods with a good fat, like olive oil, helps the body absorb more. Ways to get them in your kid's diet: Pizza and pasta sauces are obvious choices, or add tomato sauce to turkey meatballs or meatloaf if you need to disguise it. A bowl of chili and salsa for dipping are good options if you've got a spice lover.

Low-Fat Greek Yogurt
It contains healthy bacteria known to boost immunity and aid digestion, and has two to three times the amount of protein and less sugar than regular yogurt. Add a drizzle of honey (after age 1) for sweetness, a bit of maple syrup, or try a squeeze of agave syrup (a sweetener with a lower glycemic index, so it won't make your child's blood sugar -- and energy level -- spike and then crash soon after breakfast). Agave is available in grocery stores, either in the organic aisle or where you'd find honey.

Cabbage
It has a mild flavor and crunch that kids tend to like better than the usual salad greens. And cruciferous veggies such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale contain phytonutrients known to lower the risk for many types of cancer, as well as improve digestion. It also helps clear harmful toxins from the body by triggering the release of enzymes whose job it is to whisk them out. Ways to get it in your kid's diet: Make coleslaw with low-fat mayo; shred and toss it into soups or Asian noodle dishes.

Salmon
It contains heart-healthy omega-3 fats, which are also known to boost brain development, fend off depression, and have superb anti-inflammatory powers. Be sure to pick the wild kind, which is lower in mercury and higher in omega-3's. Best way to get your kid to eat it: Pair salmon with ingredients he already likes. Glaze salmon fillets with orange juice or brush them with teriyaki sauce. Or serve it as salmon cakes, burgers, or salad (mashed and mixed with low-fat mayo).

Cocoa
You probably think of the marshmallow-studded beverage, but cocoa powder actually has one of the highest concentrations of flavonoids, a compound known to improve blood pressure and heart and oral health. They may also protect skin from sun damage. Use at least 70 percent pure cocoa and check that it isn't processed with alkali (also called "Dutch processed"), which removes most of the flavonoids. Ways to serve it (beyond hot cocoa): Sprinkle it on pancakes, waffles, or French toast, or melt some dark chocolate and dunk strawberries in it.

Black Beans
"Beans are a great source of protein, as well as fiber and calcium -- two things kids tend not to get enough of. The darker the color, the better they are," says Beller. "They also help guard against heart disease and high cholesterol, which aren't adults-only problems. I have a nine-year-old patient with very high cholesterol." Ways to get them in your kid's diet: Make nachos or quesadillas with black beans, cheese, and salsa; try black-bean veggie burgers, or whip up black-bean hummus.

Basil
This herb is packed with antioxidants -- vitamins A, C, and K -- as well as iron, potassium, and calcium and can help improve digestion. Some research shows it may even ease headaches, notes Beller. Ways to get it in your kid's diet: Make pesto and spoon over chicken breasts or stir into cooked pasta. Does your kid freak out at the sight of little green flecks in his food? Welcome to the club! Grind basil up superfine and hide it in sauces, soups, and that ever-popular master of disguise, meatballs.

Cinnamon
Research shows that this spice can help regulate blood sugar, which may also minimize those all-too-common mid-morning energy crashes (kiddie meltdown!), says Beller. Ways to get it in your kid's diet: Sprinkle it on oatmeal, pancakes, cold cereal, and yogurt, and add a few extra dashes of cinnamon to muffin or quick-bread recipes that call for it. "My kids also love it on air-popped popcorn," says Beller. Or combine it in a shaker with cocoa and sprinkle both together for a superfood two-fer.

STACROBATS Baby stacker toy $51

2011-03-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

Take a look at these! So cute from Uncommongoods.com!

Traveling Circus

And now in the center ring - Stacrobats! Children of all ages will have tons of fun stacking, balancing, and performing death-defying feats with these five magnetic marvels. Watch the Stacrobats juggle three magnetic balls on their hands and feet! The soft, colorful performers come in their own carrying case complete with a stage so they can take their act on the road. Best of all, little ones will develop dexterity and coordination with every new Stacrobats show. Winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award. Made in China.

Details

Item ID: 14205
Materials: polyester
stage: 9" Diameter
Ages 1 and up. Spot clean.

Source: Stackrobats!

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Cheesy Pasta Stars

2011-03-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

Babies love to be independent and when it comes to learning to eat, nothing is more fun than watching your child try new healthy foods and feed themselves...Today, here is a very simple, yet yummy recipe for baby to try! This recipe is from one of my new favorite sites: www.annabelkarmel.com

A delicious combination of flavours is vital in baby food recipes. You can buy organic tiny pasta shapes in my ‘Make Your Own’ range in Boots which can be mixed with your baby’s puree to add texture. The pasta comes in three sizes and shapes stars, shells and alphabet pasta. They are graded in size to encourage babies to cope with more lumpy textures.

Ingredients

125g (4 oz) carrots
30g (1 oz) butter)
3 medium tomatoes (approx 200g), ripe tomatoes, skinned, de-seeded and chopped
50g grated Cheddar cheese
2 tbsp Annabel Karmel pasta stars cooked until soft (available in Boots)

Method:

Steam the carrots for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender. Warm the butter in a separate pan, add the chopped tomatoes and sauté until mushy. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheese until melted.
Meanwhile cook the pasta stars in boiling water according to the instructions on the packet, then drain.
Mash or puree the cooked carrots in an electric hand blender, together with 3 tablespoons of the liquid from the bottom of the steamer and blend together the tomato and cheese mixture. Finally stir in the cooked pasta stars.

Annabelle's Tips: CARROTS won’t make you grow into the ultimate fighter pilot (in world war two pilots were rumoured to have been fed a diet of carrots so they could see in the dark) but they will help with your night vision and growth and promote healthy skin and teeth. Interestingly vegetables are not always better for you raw. Cooking carrots with a little butter or oil will provides you with twice as much vitamin A as eating them raw.

Source: www.annabelkarmel.com
Direct Link: Cheesy Pasta Stars

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: EASTER BUNNY rhinestone tee by Daisy Creek Designs

2011-03-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is this very adorable Easter Bunny rhinestone tee by Daisy Creek Designs! So cute and ready for Easter Egg Hunts! Check out her shop too, there are so many more adorable rhinestone creations!

Celebrate Easter in style with this adorable bunny rhinestone tee.

When ordering, please enter your choice of size and color of tee in notes to the seller. Not doing so could result in a delay in your order.

SIZES CHOICES:
3-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 18-24 months
2, 4, 6
8, 10, 12

COLOR CHOICES:
white, pink, or black

{Depending on size/style, colors such as red, lavendar, light blue, navy blue and chocolate brown are also available. If you are interested in one of these colors, please indicate in notes to seller WITH an alternate choice. I will contact you to let you know about availability}

*** If you are interested in THIS DESIGN but want it in a long sleeve, purchase this listing and and let me know what you want!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/66599630/long-sleeve-child-tee-by-daisy-creek

*** All shirts will be shipped PRIORITY SHIPPING.

(For best results, wash inside out in cold water with like colors and hang to dry. If needed, use a warm iron to press while shirt is still inside out - DO NOT iron on front side of shirt.)

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: daisycreek
Price: $24.50
Direct Link: Easter Bunny Rhinestone Tee

Firstborn kids seem to have more food allergies, hay fever

2011-03-24T07:36:00.000-07:00

Sun, Mar 20, 2011 (HealthDay News) -- Firstborn children may be more likely to suffer from certain types of allergies, finds a new study.
Japanese researchers surveyed parents of more than 13,000 children aged 7 to 15 and found that a child's birth order did not seem to affect the prevalence of asthma or eczema.
However, firstborn children were more likely to have hay fever, pink eye due to allergy and food allergy. In fact, the investigators found that the prevalence of food allergy was 4 percent in firstborn children, 3.5 percent in second-born children and 2.6 percent for children born later.
"It has been established that individuals with increased birth order have a smaller risk of allergy. However, the significance of the effect may differ by allergic diseases," first author of the study, Dr. Takashi Kusunoki, of the pediatrics department at Shiga Medical Center for Children and Kyoto University, both in Japan, explained in a news release from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
The study was scheduled for presentation Sunday at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, held in San Francisco.
Further research is needed to learn more about how birth order affects allergy risk, Kusunoki and colleagues concluded.
Experts note that research presented at meetings has not been subjected to the same type of rigorous scrutiny given to research published in peer-reviewed medical journals.

-- Robert Preidt

Copyright © 2011 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

What you can do:

Find out how to tell if your 2- to 4-year-old or 5- to 8-year-old has allergies, and how to help your child cope.
Learn about food allergies in your 2- to 4-year-old or 5- to 8-year-old -- the most common culprits, how to handle an allergic reaction, and more.
Share your concerns with other parents in our Asthma and Allergies group.

Source: Babycenter.com

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Train Wall Stencils for Boys Room Wall Mural, 32 Wall Stencils

2011-03-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is the awesome wall stencil set...every little boy would LOVE this! What an awesome idea to give your kids a one of a kind room!

Does your little boy love trains? We’ve designed a full-room wall mural stencil kit with trains, planes, cars and all the things in motion. The Transportation Fascination Stencil Kit by My Wonderful Walls contains 32 self-adhesive wall stencils and is fun and easy to do. There is absolutely no artistic skill required. Our stencils are self-adhesive, so no tape or glue is needed. Just stick the stencil to the wall, paint, remove, and reuse.

Choose your own colors or purchase a paint kit (sold separately) containing just the right quantities and colors you’ll need to create a dynamic and exciting room for your little guy.

You will receive: 32 wall stencils, foam brushes and a detailed instruction and color guide.

Wall stencils included: train stencil, fire truck stencil, rocket ship stencil, blimp stencil, kite stencil, helicopter stencil, airplane stencils, airplane name banner stencil, motorcycle stencil, car stencil, sailboat stencil, cloud stencils, city building stencils, bridge stencil, tree stencils, hot-air balloon stencils, star stencils, and traffic light stencil.

Happy Painting!

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: MyWallStencils
Price: $99.95
Direct Link: Train Wall Stencil Set

New Carseat Guidlines-Rear Facing up to 2 Years

2011-03-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

Children should stay rear facing until 2. These are new AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) car seat guidelines. The AAP also recommends that children stay in a booster seat until they are 4 feet 9 inches tall, and between the ages of 8 and 12.

Following are the specific recommendations:

1. Stay rear facing until the age of 2 OR until your child has met the height and weight requirements of the car seat.

2. Children older than 2 should ride in a forward facing car seat with a 5 point harness, until they have reached the height/weight requirements for that seat.

3. After your child has outgrown the forward facing carseat with a harness, he should be in a booster seat until he is 4 feet 9 inches, and between 8 and 12 years of age.

   Motor vehicle accidents are the main cause of death in children over the age of 4. Injuries from car accidents are also very significant. Children under the age of 2 who are rear facing in car seats are 75% less likely to die or be injured in car accidents. Rear facing is safer.
    Many parents look forward to turning the car seat around at age 1. It is a common question that I hear at the one year visit. They feel like their baby will be happier if he is facing forward.
   I know I was anxious to turn my daughter’s car seat around. However, I think it was more about me than the baby. I think my daughter would have been fine rear facing. She didn’t know the difference. I was the one who was tired of looking at the back of her car seat. I wanted to see her smiling face in the rear view mirror. To first time parents out there, they will turn two soon enough. Keep them safe. Keep them rear facing.
    These are recommendation and guidelines. They are not deadlines. The goal of these guidelines is to make travel safer for our babies and children. For more information, read BabyCenter’s car seat safety guide.

How long will you keep your child rear facing?

The advice provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or treatment for specific medical conditions

Source: AAP
Photo:Flickr/Kari_Marie

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Hanging Monkey - Kids Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal Set

2011-03-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is this beautiful wall decal set for a nursey...how adorable!

Hanging Monkey - Kids Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal Set (FREE 1 BIRD)

[ITEM NO. 90056]

Set Size : 40”w x 46”h (approx.)

Colors in the listing picture are:
Brown Branch, Olive and Celadon Leaves and Vine
, Brown Monkeys(face is Beige), Signal Yellow(Bird is Free)
Pick any color from color chart(Just for Bird)

Choosing Colors]
♥ Color Option A (Branch): Choose 1 color
♥ Color Option B (Leaves): Choose 2 color (with One Color Vine)
♥ Color Option C (Monkeys): Choose 1 color
(Monkey's face is only Beige color.)
♥ Color Option D (Free One Bird): Choose 1 color

[SET INCLUDED]

♥ 1 Branch
♥ Leaves
♥ 1 Free bird
♥ 1 Vine
♥ 1 Monkey

• Above items are all separated so you can placed them wherever you wish.

• Included FREE Application tool and detailed Step-by-step
instruction with every purchase

[CHOOSING COLOR]
• Please state colors choice when you placing an order

• This is an exclusive design only from pink n blue Baby!

[REVERSE CUT]
• If you want reverse cut any piece of this set, please
leave note when you checkout.

[CUSTOM DESIGN]
• We love to provide custom decals. If you need any custom
design, simply send a design at "Request Custom Items"
section or contact us.

[FAST SHIPPING]
• We ship same day most stock items so get it fast!

[INFORMATION ABOUT PRODUCT]
All wall vinyls are not same. We are using most high quality and 100% removable vinyl products from Germany and USA . This vinyl's surface layer (face film) contain DEHP concentrations in excess of the 0.1% limit for Children’s Toys and Child Care Articles. It is important to note that none of our products are intended for use in the production of Childrens’ Toys or as Child Care Articles as defined by the CPSIA. Please contact us if you need further information

Please check more of our designs at http://www.etsy.com/shop/pinknbluebaby

Designed All Artwork by pink n blue Baby
© 2011 pink n blue Baby. All rights reserved.

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: pinknbluebaby
Price: $43
Direct Link: Hanging Monkey Wall Decal Set

Tips of Feeding Children Safe Food

2011-03-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

When it comes to feeling our children, we all want to give them the very best! Here are some tips to make sure everything they put in their mouth is nutritious and good for their growing bodies!

Tips on feeding children safe food

Want to get your family up to speed on green living quickly? Start with breakfast, lunch, and dinner by planning meals and choosing foods that are less likely to be contaminated. Here's how:

Aim for a balanced, low-fat diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and grains.
A balanced diet keeps children in tip-top shape so their bodies remove toxins as efficiently as possible and their organs and brain develop normally. Adopt the Mothers & Others New Green Diet.

Reduce consumption of animal foods and choose low-fat versions.
Some of the most toxic food contaminants accumulate in meats, fish, eggs and dairy products, especially those that are high in fat. You needn't abandon these foods altogether, especially since they contain essential nutrients. In preparing and cooking:

Trim all fats and skin on meats.
Broil meats and fish so that the fats drain away from the meat. Avoid frying, which will lock in the contaminants.

Choose fish carefully.
Many fish species contain toxins that can cause cancer and brain damage, including mercury, PCBs, dioxins. When you buy:

Use CHEC's Safe Fish Checklist to choose the safest fish.
Obtain local fish consumption advisories for mercury, PCBs or other toxins by checking your state's consumption advisory. Our list of State Fish Consumption Advisory Links can help.

Go organic.
Certified organic foods have been grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

Choose foods that are less likely to contain toxins.
According to Consumers Union, these are: bananas, broccoli, canned peaches, canned and frozen peas, canned and frozen corn, milk, orange juice, apple juice and grape juice.

Wash all fruits and vegetables well and peel them to remove surface chemicals.

Breastfeed your infant as long as possible.
While breast milk exposes infants to chemical pollutants that concentrate in human fat, such as DDT and dioxin, experts agree that it is the healthiest thing to feed your baby. The American Academy of Pediatricians Policy on Breastfeeding recommends that infants be breastfed for at least one year. For more information on breast milk and its contaminants, see the Natural Resource Defense Council's report on breast milk.

Source: Babycenter.com
Content provider: This content is provided by Healthy Child Healthy World, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of children from harmful environmental exposures.

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Fish Sticks

2011-03-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

EatingWell Fish Sticks

You can make these homemade fish sticks in about the same amount of time it takes to bake a box of the frozen kind. Make it a meal: Serve with lemon wedges, coleslaw, roasted new potatoes and a dollop of tartar sauce.
4 servings | Active Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Canola oil cooking spray
1 cup whole-wheat dry breadcrumbs, (see Shopping Tip) or 1/2 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
1 cup whole-grain cereal flakes
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large egg whites, beaten
1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into 1/2-by-3-inch strips

Preparation

Preheat oven to 450°F. Set a wire rack on a baking sheet; coat with cooking spray.
Place breadcrumbs, cereal flakes, lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika and salt in a food processor or blender and process until finely ground. Transfer to a shallow dish.
Place flour in a second shallow dish and egg whites in a third shallow dish. Dredge each strip of fish in the flour, dip it in the egg and then coat all sides with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the prepared rack. Coat both sides of the breaded fish with cooking spray.
Bake until the fish is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crisp, about 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Per serving : 274 Calories; 3 g Fat; 1 g Sat; 1 g Mono; 57 mg Cholesterol; 33 g Carbohydrates; 29 g Protein; 3 g Fiber; 479 mg Sodium; 464 mg Potassium
2 Carbohydrate Serving
Exchanges: 2 starch, 3 1/2 very lean meat

Tips & Notes

Shpping Tip: We like the Ian's brand of whole-wheat dry breadcrumbs, labeled “Panko breadcrumbs,” for their coarse and crunchy texture. Find them in the natural-foods section of large supermarkets or substitute plain dry breadcrumbs (they're finer so you need less).

Source:
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/eatingwell_fish_sticks.html
From EatingWell: July/August 2007

Happy St. Paddy's Day from Bitty BB !

2011-03-17T08:54:00.000-07:00

In celebration of St. Patrick's day! Enjoy and Happy St. Paddy's Day!!!

Who's Your Paddy? Onesie $17.99

Check it out HERE - Make Us Smile Tees


The 'Kelly' Bottlecap pendant charm necklace $15

Check it out HERE - Etsy.com-Shop Name: HairSnaps


Victorian Inspired Hair Bow $7.75

Check it out HERE - Etsy.com-Shop Name: TheFairyFactoryShop

Carter's St. Patrick's Day Bib - SALE $3.60

Check it out HERE - JCPenny.com

Mom's Lucky Charm T-Shirt - Kohls SALE $5.99

Check it out HERE - Kohls.com

Your Baby's Future Height!

2011-03-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

Every wonder how tall your baby might be when they are fully grown? I came across this "height calculator" online and gave it a try. According to it, my baby will be a tall 5 foot, 6.5 inches when she is grown (a full half inch taller than her mommy!) If you are curious and want to try it out for fun, give it a try! Now we just have to wait 13-18 years to know if it was correct!

CLICK HERE for the Height Calculator

Source: Parenting.com

10 first-year games for you and baby

2011-03-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

Where Did It Go?

Take a koosh ball or other soft ball and squish it into a small container with a lid. Close the lid. Ask your baby, "Where did the ball go?" Encourage him to open the container and watch the ball spring out, jack-in-the-box style. The popping ball is sure to get his attention, and the game is an exciting way to learn about object permanence -- the fact that an object still exists even if you can't see it -- explains Susan P. Epstein, a parenting coach in New London, Connecticut.

Kitchen Stack-Ups

Empty cereal boxes, plastic yogurt containers, and unbreakable bowls are perfect building materials for teetering towers. As you stack each item, describe its size and shape. Once your homemade skyscraper is complete, you and your baby can take turns knocking it down. This activity, Epstein says, will teach your baby about shapes and sizes as well as cause and effect ("Wow, when I push on these boxes, they come down with a big boom!").

I Can Hear It

Another way to reinforce the concept of object permanence is by hiding a squeak toy beneath a blanket or towel. Start by partially covering it with the blanket. Squeak the toy, and encourage your baby to find it. Once she gets good at that, up the ante by completely covering the toy. Again, squeeze it so it makes a noise. Cheer for her when she finds it.

Wet and Wild

Turn bathtime into aquatic exploration. Equip your child with cups of different sizes, a small plastic teapot or watering can, and a handful of plastic measuring spoons. Let her pour water from one container to another so she can see what happens. Take a turn pouring the water for her, and let her try to "catch" it in her hands. Another fun idea: Let her have a wet sponge so she can watch the water drip from the sponge onto other objects, Epstein suggests. Show her how to twist and squeeze the sponge to make even more water drip.

Mommy Is Sleeping

Sit close to your baby (he can be seated or lying down, depending on his age). Say "Mommy is going to sleep now," and close your eyes. After a few seconds, open your eyes and enthusiastically say "Hi!" or "Good morning!" (You can switch it up with "Good afternoon" or "Good evening" to reflect the time of day.) Seeing Mom's eyes pop open and hearing her greeting usually elicits a laugh. After a few rounds, pause longer before opening your eyes to see how your baby reacts. Chances are babies about 6 months and older will start to vocalize or bat at your face to "wake you up."

Fall for Foliage

Head outside and gather leaves in a variety of colors and sizes. Give them to your baby and let him pick them up and explore them with his hands (with your supervision, of course). Crinkle some of the leaves so he can experience the sound and learn that the action of crinkling the leaf makes that crunchy noise. Use a leaf big enough to cover most of your face for a new take on traditional peekaboo.

Roll Play

Seat your baby on the floor across from you, and roll a toy car to her. Encourage her to roll it back to you. Try to keep the activity going. This back-and-forth game teaches the concept of taking turns, which will be necessary later for conversations, and it sets the stage for sharing.

Paint with Purees

This game is a little messy, but it's guaranteed to be a hit! Settle your 8- to 12-month-old into his high chair, or set him on the floor with a cookie sheet in front of him. Present him with a variety of colorful foods -- try colored yogurts and baby food -- and let him finger paint a masterpiece that would make Jackson Pollock proud. As he dips his hands into his edible "paint," describe the food with words like "red," "cold," "squishy," or whatever fits. If your pediatrician has given the green light, you can also supply some Cheerios or similar finger foods to add more texture to your child's artwork.

Get a Feel for It

Give your 10- to 12-month-old a variety of textured items to explore, suggest Sandy Jones and Marcie Jones, authors of Great Expectations: Baby's First Year (Sterling Publishing). Gather items from around the house or the outdoors -- a silky scarf, a piece of cardboard, tickly blades of grass, or a handful of sand, for example -- and let her touch each one. (Just be sure she doesn't put things she shouldn't into her mouth.) The two of you will discover which textures are most pleasing to her. Will she like the softness of fleece or prefer the bumpiness of corduroy? There's only one way to find out!

Collect Colors

Another winning activity in my house involves exploring colors by creating collections of similarly shaded items. Start by scavenging the toy box for baby-friendly objects in solid colors such as red, blue, yellow, and green. While sitting with your baby on the floor, group the items into sets based on their color. For example, you might gather a red ball, a red plastic stacking ring, and a red rattle. Let baby handle the items as you say the color and name of each one, such as "red apple, red rattle, blue ball, blue block."

Originally published in the June 2008 issue of American Baby magazine.

Source: Parents.com

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Butternut Squash Ravioli

2011-03-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

Soft and 'squidgy', this ravioli makes the perfect gummable finger food for tiny diners! You can, of course, substitute the butternut squash filling for another of your baby's favourite veggies - but we think this recipe looks great and tastes yummy just as it is!
2 oz (1/2 cup) flour (unbleached)
2 oz (1/2 cup) semolina flour
2-3 fl oz (1/3 cup) very warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
around 6 oz (3/4 cup) butternut squash, peeled, cooked and mashed
pinch of sweet paprika (optional)
Mix the flours together, then slowly add the oil and water, mixing well (this is easiest to achieve with a food processor set at the lowest speed).
The mixture should become a ball of dough - if it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until a ball is formed.
Knead the dough thoroughly, then divide into two pieces.
Roll out each piece VERY thinly.
Stir the paprika into the butternut squash.
EITHER
Take heaped teaspoons of the butternut squash and place at intervals along 1 sheet of pasta.
Place the other sheet of pasta over the top and press down around the 'mounds' of butternut squash.
Next, cut around the butternut squash mounds with a very sharp knife.
Create a decorative edge for your ravioli by pressing all the way around the edge with the wet prongs of a fork.
OR
Splash out on some ravioli moulds.
They are inexpensive and make it much easier to create perfect ravioli shapes!
NEXT...
Bring a large pan of water to the boil, then carefully slide in your ravioli shapes (we find it best to cook just three or four at a time).
When the shapes rise to the surface of the water, they are ready. Carefully remove them with a slotted spoon.
Serve as they are - with a fresh tomato sauce for babies already enjoying tomatoes - or even with a sauce of another veggie puree thinned with a little stock!

Source: Butternut Squash Ravioli Recipe

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Pink Baby Socks Cupcakes

2011-03-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is a set of adorable cupcake socks....what a cute idea for a shower gift!

Pink Baby Socks Cupcakes

If you are looking for a delightful gift with a twist this sweet box of 4 almost edible cupcakes may be just the answer! Included are 4 pairs of 100% cotton socks neatly rolled inside reusable silicone baking cups and wrapped by a delicate cupcake wrapper. So much sweetness.. no calories!

Sweet Cupcake ingredients:
4 Pairs of socks
4 Silicone baking cups - reusable and oven safe!

Charming decorative roses or other pretty embellishment,
gift box and finishing touches

Also available in blue, yellow and green. Please specify gender or color preference during checkout.

We use only known brand name quality products like Carter's, Gerber, etc.

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: babyxpress
Price: $16
Direct Link: Proudly Pink Baby Socks Cupcakes

Bitty Banana Bean

Dye-Free Easter Eggs

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Sweet Diaper Cupcakes

Check it out on Etsy.com! Shop name: Mod Diaper Cupcakes Price: $15 Direct Link: Sweet Diaper Cupcakes

10 Things You Need to Know About the New USDA Guidelines

First Birthday Party Favor Ideas: Homemade Hand-Dipped Chocolate Covered Oreos!

Instructions

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Infant Pique Dress Pink w/ White

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is this cute custom pink dress! Just in time for Easter!

Check it out on Etsy.com! Shop name: Lilly Kat's Apparel Price: $40 Direct Link: Infant Pique Dress Pink w/ White

April Fools! 15 April Fools' Day pranks for your family

Celebrity Parents of Twins!

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Monogrammed Pacifier Clip Set

Check it out on Etsy.com! Shop name: theposhtots Price: $28.50 Direct Link: Monogrammed Pacifier Clip Set

Babyproofing-4 common threats

10 Celebrity Single Mom's

10 Superfoods for Kids

STACROBATS Baby stacker toy $51

Traveling Circus

Details

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Cheesy Pasta Stars

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: EASTER BUNNY rhinestone tee by Daisy Creek Designs

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is this very adorable Easter Bunny rhinestone tee by Daisy Creek Designs! So cute and ready for Easter Egg Hunts! Check out her shop too, there are so many more adorable rhinestone creations!

Check it out on Etsy.com! Shop name: daisycreek Price: $24.50 Direct Link: Easter Bunny Rhinestone Tee

Firstborn kids seem to have more food allergies, hay fever

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Train Wall Stencils for Boys Room Wall Mural, 32 Wall Stencils

Today, my Etsy Deal of the Day is the awesome wall stencil set...every little boy would LOVE this! What an awesome idea to give your kids a one of a kind room!

New Carseat Guidlines-Rear Facing up to 2 Years

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Hanging Monkey - Kids Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal Set

Hanging Monkey - Kids Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal Set (FREE 1 BIRD)

Tips of Feeding Children Safe Food

Tips on feeding children safe food

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Fish Sticks

EatingWell Fish Sticks

Ingredients

Preparation

Nutrition

Tips & Notes

Happy St. Paddy's Day from Bitty BB !

Your Baby's Future Height!

10 first-year games for you and baby

Healthy Homemade Finger Food (HHFF) Idea: Butternut Squash Ravioli

Etsy.com - Deal of the Day: Pink Baby Socks Cupcakes

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: Mod Diaper Cupcakes
Price: $15
Direct Link: Sweet Diaper Cupcakes

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: Lilly Kat's Apparel
Price: $40
Direct Link: Infant Pique Dress Pink w/ White

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: theposhtots
Price: $28.50
Direct Link: Monogrammed Pacifier Clip Set

Check it out on Etsy.com!
Shop name: daisycreek
Price: $24.50
Direct Link: Easter Bunny Rhinestone Tee