Child Care Notes

3 Easy Steps: How To Have A Boy

2011-03-16T22:38:00.000+07:00

If you would like to increase the chances of adding a baby boy to your family, there are a few things that you can do to naturally select the gender of your child. While there is no guarantee and no method is 100% foolproof, following these steps can increase the likelihood that you will have a boy.

Before we get started, it is important to understand the difference between the sperms that carry the Y chromosome, which are responsible for conceiving a boy and the sperms that carry the X chromosome, which are responsible for conceiving a girl. The Y sperm move very quickly, are quite small and don't live as long as the X sperm do. They are capable swimmers, but they must reach the egg quickly or they die off, leaving only the X sperm behind to fertilize the egg.

Timing Intercourse
Keeping these differences in mind, when you want to have a boy, you need to time intercourse as close as you possibly can to ovulation. The Y sperm only have so long to make it to the egg and you need to give them enough of a chance to get there before the X sperm do. If you can time intercourse to the exact day that you ovulate, you are greatly increasing your chances of having a boy.
While this doesn't always work and sometimes an X sperm will get there first, by scheduling intercourse in this way, you are giving the Y sperm the chance they need to make it to the egg first.

Choose the Right Position
Sexual positions that allow for deep penetration can also increase the likelihood of having a boy. By allowing the man to orgasm as closely as possible to the cervix, the Y sperm will have less distance to go in their journey to the egg. Since they need a headstart, you are again giving them that extra edge to make it to the egg first.

The most common positions for deep penetration include woman dominant, so called doggy style, or penetration from behind as well as reverse cowgirl. In addition to the right position, it is beneficial if the woman orgasms before the man if you are trying to have a boy. This changes the PH of the fluids near the cervix, making them hospitable to the Y sperm.

The Right Diet
The foods you eat can also impact the gender of your child. If you want to have a boy, a diet rich in foods containing sodium and potassium is essential. The perfect food for this is a banana. Sweet corn, red meat and peaches are also recommended. While you don't want to overdo the sodium, small amounts can be helpful when you are trying to conceive a boy.
Remember, these methods are not foolproof, but no matter what gender your child ends up being, the important thing is that they are healthy and happy.

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Memory Zone: Three Little Pigs

2011-03-14T21:34:00.000+07:00

Once upon a time there were three little pigs, who left their parents to see the world. All summer long, they roamed through the woods and over the plains, playing games and having fun. None were happier than the three little pigs, and they easily made friends with everyone.

Wherever they went, they were given a warm welcome, but as summer drew to a close, they realized that all drifting back to their usual jobs, and preparing for winter. Autumn came and it began to rain.

The three little pigs started to feel they needed a real home. Sadly, they knew that the fun was over now and they must set to work like the others, or they'd be left in the cold and rain, with no roof over their heads. They talked about what to do, but each decided for himself. The laziest little pig said he'd build a straw hut.

"It will only take a day,' he said. The others disagreed.

"It's too fragile," they said but he refused to listen.
Not quite so lazy, the second little pig went in search of planks of seasoned wood.
It took him two days to nail them together.
But the third little pig did not like the wooden house.” It takes time, patience and hard work to build a house that is strong enough to stand up to wind, rain, and snow, and most of all, protect us from the wolf!"

The days passed, and the wisest little pig's house took shape, brick by brick. From time to time, his brothers visited him, saying,
"Why are you working so hard? Why don't you come and play?" But the stubborn bricklayer pig just said "no".

"I shall finish my house first. It must be strong. And then I'll come and play!" he said.” He who laughs last, laughs longest!"

Now, it was the wisest little pig that found the tracks of a big wolf in the neighborhood.

The little pigs rushed home in alarm. Along came the wolf, scowling fiercely at the laziest pig's straw hut.

"Come out!" ordered the wolf, his mouth watering. I want to speak to you!"

"I'd rather stay where I am!" replied the little pig in a tiny voice.

"I'll make you come out!" growled the wolf angrily, and puffing out his chest, he took a very deep breath. Then he blew with all his might, right onto the house. And all the straw the silly pig had heaped against some thin poles fell down. Excited by his own cleverness, the wolf did not notice that the little pig had slipped out from underneath the heap of straw, and was dashing towards his brother's wooden house. When he realized that the little pig was escaping, the wolf grew wild with rage.

"Come back!" he roared, trying to catch the pig as he ran into the wooden house.

"I hope this house won't fall down! Let's lean against the door so he can't break in!" said the little pig to his brother.

Outside, the wolf could hear the little pigs' words. Starving as he was, at the idea of a two course meal, he rained blows on the door.

"Open up! Open up! I only want to speak to you!"

Inside, the two brothers wept in fear and did their best to hold the door fast against the blows. Then the furious wolf braced himself a new effort: he drew in a really enormous breath, and went ... WHOOOOO! The wooden house collapsed like a pack of cards.

Luckily, the wisest little pig had been watching the scene from the window of his own brick house, and he rapidly opened the door to his fleeing brothers. Soon after, the wolf came hammering furiously on the door. This time, the wolf had grave doubts. This house had a much more solid air than the others. He blew once, he blew again and then for a third time but all in vain. For the house did not budge an inch. The three little pigs watched him and their fear began to fade. Quite exhausted by his efforts, the wolf decided to try one of his tricks. He scrambled up a nearby ladder, on to the roof to have a look at the chimney. However, the wisest little pig had seen this ploy, and he quickly said.

"Quick! Light the fire!" With his long legs thrust down the chimney, the wolf was not sure if he should slide down the black hole. It wouldn't be easy to get in, but the sound of the little pigs' voices below only made him feel hungrier.

"I'm dying of hunger! I'm going to try and get down." And he let himself drop. But landing was rather hot, too hot! The wolf landed in the fire.

The flames licked his hairy coat and his tail became a flaring torch.

“Never again will I go down a chimney" he squealed, as he tried to put out the flames in his tail. Then he ran away as fast as he could.

Then the three happy little pigs, dancing round and round the yard, began to sing. "Tra-la-la! Tra-la-la! The wicked black wolf will never come back...!"

From that terrible day on, the wisest little pig's brothers set to work with a will. In less than no time, up went the two new brick houses. The wolf did return once to roam in the neighborhood, but when he caught sight of three chimneys, he remembered the terrible pain of a burnt tail, and he left for good.

Now safe and happy, the wisest little pig called to his brothers. "No more work! Come on, let's go and play!"

Source from Kidsgen.

A Must-Read Note: How To Survive A Tsunami

2011-03-11T19:12:00.008+07:00

After the most devastating earthquake hit Japan in at least 300 years on this Friday afternoon, a tsunami warning issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii.

Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning "harbor wave." Being prepared and watching the warning signs can save a life when a tsunami hits.

1. Heed warning signs
Besides heeding official warnings to evacuate or board up homes, heeding the natural signs of an approaching tsunami can save lives. Some signs include sea water that is much warmer than usual, waves that smell of rotten eggs (sulphur), water receeding considerably further than normal, unusual loud sounds, such as a thunderous boom or a sound like a helicopter, and water that may sting the skin. Especially heed these warning signs after an earthquake of considerable magnitude occured elsewhere on earth in the previous few days.

2. Head for high ground
Abandon homes and belongings, if necessary, but try to take along at least some fresh water, food, a radio and extra batteries.

Once a tsunami is suspected, immediately head for higher ground, such as a knoll, hill, or mountain. Be aware that once a tsunami hits, more waves may follow, some worse than the original. Roads may be washed out or impassable. If necessary, abandon vehicles and continue to high ground on foot.

3.If it is too late to head for higher ground, get to the highest place available. Climb onto the roof of the house or the highest tree nearby and wait for the waters to receed.

If tsunami waters hit before you can get to higher ground, find something that floats and hang on. Large tree branches, logs, and pieces of wood make acceptable rafts until help can arrive. Above all, don't panic. Stay calm until help arrives.

Earthquake Safety Tips For Children

2011-03-11T18:45:00.007+07:00

Today's world top story is a devastating earthquake which rocked Japan, triggering a 10-meter tsunami that violently engulfed cars and other objects in its path in its northern areas, particularly in Miyagi Prefecture.

According to Wall Street Journal, the quake was one of the five biggest in history with a magnitude of 8.9,caused mass panic not only around the country but also to others.

A tsunami warning issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii included Japan, Russia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Guam, the Northern Marianas, the Marcus Islands and the Wake Islands, and extended across the Pacific Ocean to include Central and South America.

Like everyone living in earthquake-prone areas, it is important that children know what to do to protect themselves, no matter where they are when it occurs.

Find a Safe Spot

# Show children where they should be in the event of an earthquake. At home it is under a sturdy piece of furniture, like the dining room table. At school it is under a desk or other well-built piece of furniture. Remind children to stay away from bookcases or furniture that can fall on them, to stay away from windows, mirrors or hanging objects, and to expect the fire alarm and sprinklers to go off during an earthquake.

Duck, Cover & Hold

# "Duck, Cover and Hold," are the three words a child needs to know in the event of an earthquake. Teach them to drop down, take cover under a heavy piece of furniture and hold on to the furniture until the shaking stops. If no furniture is available, duck to the ground near an interior wall and away from windows, and cover the head and neck with the arms.

Practice Different Scenarios

# Practice different scenarios. If you're in the classroom, practice the duck, cover and hold exercise. On the playground, instruct the children to move away from the building, find a spot that is clear of trees and power lines, and drop to the ground. At home, help the children identify safe spots and practice getting into a safe position. Make sure they're aware of safe ways to exit the room and building.

Learn To Recognize The Smell Of Gas

# Explain that gas lines can sometimes be damaged during an earthquake and that natural gas can be dangerous. Natural gas has no real smell, but an aroma is added by the gas company to warn people of its presence. Gas is sometimes described as smelling like rotten eggs. Tell children to inform an adult if they believe they smell gas and that the adult will turn the gas off at its source.

Keep Things In Perspective

# Teach children that thousands of earthquakes occur every year in the United States. Most of them are too small to be felt and very few actually cause damage. While they should understand what the do if they experience an earthquake, children need not live in fear of one occurring.

When Do Babies Get Their First Teeth?

2011-03-11T09:09:00.004+07:00

Your five-month-old wants to put everything from paper to the phone in her mouth – she must be teething. Not necessarily, says Dr. Alan Greene, author of Raising Baby Green.

There are so many potential symptoms for teething that it’s easy to blame everything on the anticipated appearance of a child’s teeth, he says. Here’s how to tell if a visit from the tooth fairy is imminent, or if something else is to blame:

Teething Symptoms

Teething symptoms vary and can range from severe to nothing at all. Most children will experience at least one of the following symptoms as their teeth prepare to break through their gums:

* trouble falling asleep
* fussiness
* drooling
* runny nose
* rash around the chin or mouth
* red cheeks
* swollen gums
* biting
* an increased need to suck
* rejection of breast or bottle
* congestion

When Do Babies Get Teeth

It is completely normal for your baby to get her first tooth at 18 months. And there are rare cases when an infant is born with teeth. For most children, however, that first tooth will appear around six months.

Traditional Teething Timetable

70% of of babies get teeth according to this guideline:

6 months: lower central incisors – cutting teeth
7 months: upper central incisors
7.5 months: lower lateral incisors
9 months: upper lateral incisors
12 months: lower first molars (bicuspids) – grinding and chewing teeth
14 months: upper first molars
16 months: lower canines (cuspids)
18 months: upper canines
20 months: lower second molars
24 months: upper second molars

Is baby teething?

Teething symptoms could be due to a host of other issues. To determine whether teething is to blame for your little one’s fussiness, look for a sudden change in behavior. “We used to think teeth moved gradually,” says Dr. Greene. “Now we know there are some days when teeth move a lot and others only a little.” Most children will only be bothered by the large, intense movements.

If in doubt, it never hurts to try a teething remedy. If you’re wrong, most symptoms aren’t a sign of anything that would need immediate attention – the exception is a fever. Anything over 100 degrees Fahrenheit warrants a trip to the doctor.

When teething isn’t to blame

At around four months, an infant’s saliva increases, but her lip tone isn’t strong enough to hold it in her mouth so drooling will increase. “Even watching you eat can produce excess saliva,” says Dr. Greene. Babies begin an exploratory oral phase around four months causing them to bring their hands, and pretty much any other object, to their mouths continually.

Providing Relief

“Not all kids are uncomfortable with teething,” says Dr. Greene. “And those who are may not be with every tooth.” If your child is fussy, there are some simple ways to ease her discomfort:

Gentle pressure
Gently massage your infant’s gums with a clean finger.

Teethers
Opt for firm plastic to limit exposure to bisphenol A, a potentially harmful chemical common in soft plastics. Or try a natural rubber or silicone teething toy.

Cold Comfort
Chewing on something cool is a great way to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. Place crushed ice in a washcloth or terry toy and let your child chew on it for 10 to 15 minutes.

Homeopathic teething tablets
Natural brands, such as Hylands teething tablets, have safe, natural ingredients and melt in your child’s mouth to provide relief. (Consult a physician prior to use.)

Fever Aid
Once you’ve ruled out other potential causes of fever with a visit to the doctor, the recommended dose of Tempra can help reduce fever and provide comfort.

Popular Baby Names 2011

2011-03-11T08:15:00.007+07:00

Baby Names Garden predicts Jacob and Isabella to stay at number 1. Ethan and Emma each remain number 2. But Jayden will bump Michael from the top three for the first time in 50 years, while Olivia holds firm as number 3 girl's name in the United States.

Girls' Names Becoming More Popular:

* Addison: continues its quick ascent, jumping 6 spots to number 6.
* Leah: breaks into the top 20 for first time, at number 19.
* Peyton: leaps from 43 to 28.
* Aubrey: newly fashionable, rockets to number 32.
* Layla: forty years after Eric Clapton's "Layla," the name is starting to take off.
* On the horizon: Khloe, Bella, Lyla, and Harper are the hot new girls' names a few years out.

Girls' Names Becoming Less Popular:

* Hannah: it's been a great run, but Hannah's heading down, to number 29.
* Anna: like Hannah, her popularity is waning, down to 34.
* Victoria: unable to gain a foothold, Victoria is heading back down, probably to number 37.
* Kayla: her popularity was shortlived, and will slip to number 42 or thereabouts.

Boys' Names Becoming More Popular:

* Jayden: nothing but up for Jayden, as it breaks into the top three this year.
* Liam: Irish Liam is on a hot streak, up ten places to 39.
* Carter: is a new favorite, making inroads in the Top 50 to number 45.
* Noah: a slow but steady climber, now at number 8.
* On the horizon: Brody, Oliver, Jaxon, and Ryder are the hot new boys' names a few years out.

Boys' Names Becoming Less Popular:

* Michael: Exits the top three boys' names for first time in over 50 years.
* Kevin: on its way out of the Top 50, at number 48.
* Justin: the mid-80's streak for Justin seems done, as it slips to number 49.
* Brandon: is it finally over? Brandon slips four years in a row, down to 41.

Toddler Discipline: Advice and Resources

2011-03-11T07:36:00.006+07:00

Who is in charge?

So many times, so many people will tell you how to discipline your toddlers. Everyone has an opinion. It is important to remember that a child wants and needs to know who's in charge.

They are looking for guidance about what they can or cannot do. Imagine if you took a job and your boss didn't tell you what you could or couldn't do all day. Wouldn't that be just confusing and troubling?

Do the right thing

Sometimes we mistaken a reason to discipline with our own pet peeves. If it bothers you to hear your toddler say the same word over and over, then that's your issue. Your child isn't really doing anything wrong, is he? Just remind yourself that you ultimately want your child to do the right thing.

Sharing

We live in a society where sharing has become mandatory, instead of voluntary. One mom confesses that she doesn't make her toddler share with anyone. She does, however, let her son know that if he doesn't share then his friends might not want to play with him because it isn't fun. This way, her toddler can understand that he might want to share so they can all play together.

It isn't easy being in charge

Sometimes adults will take the easy way out and avoid the need to let the child understand how things work. It can be much easier to just give a toddler a new toy to stop the crying even if he wasn't being nice to others. This only hurts the parent in the years to come. Kids are smart. They will learn what works and what doesn't, but the adults will want to work at being consistent and strong about their decisions.

5 Tips for Successful Parenting

2011-03-10T21:23:00.008+07:00

Being a parent is one of the most challenging tasks in life and successful parenting involves a fundamental desire to learn and improve your parenting skills. This is especially true when it comes to child discipline.

While children are adorable to play with, teaching them right from wrong, and good from bad, can be tough.

Parents often struggle the most with children who are around two or three years old. This stage of the terrible twos or threes is right between learning to walk and talk (the basics), and learning to use logic (more complex). The child also wants to be more independent.

As parents, we usually end up in a power struggle because we are worried the child will get hurt, or break something, or make a mess, etc. Successful parenting involves knowing when to get into a power struggle, and when to walk away from one because it just isn’t worth the fight.

“Power struggle” may sound harsh, but this is what exactly happens when you try to dress your child and they just scream “No! No!” What’s bad about this is that nobody wins, and both parties can end up hating each other.

Believe it or not, there is a way to raise a child without being too stressed about it. Your two-year-old kid can be your friend if you follow these tips for successful parenting.

Give Your Child Space

No individual wants to be controlled. It’s true for children also. This is one of the first things a parent needs to understand in raising a responsible, happy child. Every person wants to have a “say” over himself, and that’s something we all need to respect. Giving your child the freedom to decide on what shirt or shoes he wants to wear is a very good step in showing that you respect his decision.

Now, there is a fine line between giving space and giving him the freedom to do anything that he pleases. As a parent, you are responsible for raising your child and helping guide him to make good choices. But you need to do it in such a way that you don’t violate his self-being. If you don’t like his choice of leaving his toys around, explain the natural consequences of it and stick to it.

Compliment Your Child

Compliments can boost self-confidence, and this is probably something you’d like for your child, right? How much confidence a person has often determines if they will be successful in life, especially when it comes to managing a career.

When you give compliments, always make sure that it is genuine. Compliments need to be earned, and this is something that your child needs to understand. Otherwise, they may incorrectly learn that they’ll get a compliment form you without earning it. And this belief could extend to other people your child interacts with down the road.

The important thing to remember here is to compliment your child whenever you see that he has exerted effort on what he’s doing, and not just praise him for something simple. If your child succeeds at something simple like putting away some toys, say “thanks” instead of complimenting it. Make it at least slightly challenging to earn the compliment!

Spend Quality Time With Your Kids

Life is busy, no doubt. But no matter what, you need to make time for your kids. Too many parents fail to do this and not only do they feel guilty later, but the kids take notice and it affects their behavior.

Make no mistake that no matter how busy you feel your life is, you are CHOOSING to either spend your time with your kids or somewhere else. Choose the right balance. Avoid the regret that you’ll surely feel otherwise.

Spending time with your kids also allows you to understand their motivations and likes or dislikes. This will help you when it comes to discipline later.

Positive Communication

Some parents only tend to have “serious conversations” with their kids when they misbehave. The focus of the conversation is around what parents what their kids to NOT do.

Let’s not forget that kids also grow and benefit from hearing what you appreciate about them. And speaking in positive terms really helps here. Even if you are trying to correct poor behavior, it’s more effective to tell your child what you DO want rather than what you don’t want.

Also, remember to talk with your child rather than at your child. Listen to your child’s opinion and feelings. Ask good questions when something is unclear. You’ll be surprised how smart your kid actually is, and you’ll learn something you didn’t already know.
Talking with your child also fosters a feeling of love.

Learn From Your Mistakes

We all want to be the perfect parent, but there’s just no such thing. In order to be a successful parent, we need to learn from our own mistakes. Mistakes are how we learn, and if we don’t make mistakes we are not learning. But if we make mistakes without acknowledging them, we also fail to learn.

If you are trying to develop a certain behavior in a child and are not having success, try something else. Don’t keep trying to get your result with the same (failing) method. Adapt. Think about how your child is motivated and try something new. Otherwise you’ll not only fail to accomplish the change that you are after, but you’ll strain your relationship with your child.

Above all, successful parenting is achieved when a loving and caring parent is able to observe what is working, and modify what is not working.

7 Tips For Potty Training Toddler

2011-03-10T07:19:00.006+07:00

There seems to be a widely held impression, past down from generation to generation, that potty training toddlers is arduous.

Follow this practical plan and you will be able to go from all those diapers to dry in days. But only if you are prepared not to be side-tracked by other distractions during this period and able to give your focus to toilet training.

1. Evaluating Your Child's Readiness

Does your toddler have the required verbal understanding? This includes being able to understand and carry out simple instructions.

Does your toddler show signs of wanting to do more things for themselves such as pulling up their own pants?

Is your child's bladder and bowel control adequately developed? For instance, can he or she go for two or three hours before wetting their diaper?

You really must not go on to item 2 until you are confident your toddler can handle being toilet trained.

2. Let's Go Shopping

You want to make this trip to the shops as much fun as possible for your toddler. So what's on that shopping list?

You should get:

* An anatomically correct doll (a boy doll if you have a son, a girl doll if you have a daughter);
* Potties (yes it's best to have two or three around the home so there is always one close at hand when it's wanted);
* Underpants, preferably vibrantly colored. It's even better if there's a picture of one of their favorite cartoon characters on them. Diaper or training underpants can be a practical solution for any trips out but make sure you treat them as real pants not diapers;
* a wall chart and stickers.

Remember to let your toddler have a say in the purchase choice.

3. Toilet Train The Doll

Silly as it may seem, you potty train the doll. The doll is a great teaching tool, it should not be seen as a toy. You will be using the doll to model correct behavior.

4. Celebrate The Doll's Success

Each time the doll correctly uses the potty it is praised and a sticker is placed on the wall chart that records the doll's progress. And when the doll has been potty trained it gets a party.
You want your toddler to realize that being potty trained is a happy, fun experience.

5. It's Farewell to Diapers

Put your toddler in pants. There's no retreating back to diapers even if there are two or three accidents along the way.

6. Give Your Toddler Plenty Of Fluids

The more your toddler drinks the more they will need to urinate. So they should get plenty of practice in using a potty.

7. Ask Your Toddler If They Need the Potty

If they say no that's fine. With all those drinks they'll soon need to go. Quiz them again a little later.

If they have a little accident you must not let your child see you are angry or disappointed. Just tell them they'll do better next time. Take them to the potty and have them sit on it for two or three minutes. Give them fresh pants to put on. At short intervals take them back to the potty for a total of ten times. This will help to build muscle memory. Very soon they will urinate in the potty.

A little food for thought. It is not just what you say, it's how you say it. This is certainly true when it comes to teaching a toddler new skills.

Normal Milestones in Babies Growth & Development

2011-03-09T22:20:00.008+07:00

Cheering for your child from the sidelines begins long before your superstar puts on that first uniform and races toward the winning goal. When babies sit without assistance or take that first hesitant step, parents typically celebrate the achievement and babies look forward to the next challenge.

Health care providers observe these accomplishments as milestones that might, if occurring above a certain age, indicate lagging development.

Significance
1. Noting that no two babies develop identically, The March of Dimes states that children do typically show varying levels of motor skills (sitting and walking), communication and social abilities at about the same age as their peers. Slow development might indicate underlying conditions like neurological disorders. Doctors and parents can use the expected "norms" to help judge whether infants (babies from birth to 1 year) need further evaluation.

Birth to One Month
2. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most newborns have jerky movements, startle easily and focus on objects no more than eight to 12 inches away. They move their heads from side to side when lying on their stomach, bring their hands to mouth when on their back and turn toward familiar sounds, such as mother's voice. The AAP recommends calling your physician if a newborn has a weak suck or feeds slowly, does not blink at bright lights, rarely moves arms and legs or does not respond to loud sounds.

By Three Months
3. At three months, the AAP notes that babies are more active and responsive to their environment overall. They can usually raise their head and chest when lying on their stomach and support their upper body with their arms. They typically stretch and kick their legs, grasp and shake toys and watch faces closely. They also begin to recognize people, imitate sounds and often smile at the sound of a familiar voice. If your baby does not smile at people, babble, pay attention to new faces or has trouble moving his eyes in all directions, the AAP suggests you alert your physician.

By Seven Months
4. From four to seven months, babies begin to roll over easily, reach out with one hand, transfer toys from hand to hand and may start crawling. The AAP notes the typical seven-month-old knows her name, babbles in consonant sounds and responds to emotions of others. They can also find a "partially hidden" toy. A few warning signs that may warrant contacting your doctor include lack of affection for caregivers, poor muscle tone or floppiness or difficulty in bringing objects to her mouth.

By One Year
5. Mobility marks a baby's first birthday. Most can crawl, pull to stand, walk holding onto furniture, stand for a moment without support and may take two or three steps on their own. They can fill and empty bowls with blocks, pick an object up with thumb and forefinger (pincer grasp) and scribble with a crayon. The AAP recommends you schedule an appointment with your physician if your one-year-old does not crawl, use single words like "mama" or cannot stand with support.

Caution
6. "Normal milestones" are only guidelines and the AAP recommends addressing any concerns with your physician. The March of Dimes also notes that health care providers expect premature babies (born before 37 weeks' gestation) to reach milestones based on their due date rather than actual birth date or chronological age.

Bottle Feeding 101

2011-03-09T22:00:00.008+07:00

Some parents choose to give their baby a bottle of formula instead of breast milk. Other parents give their baby a bottle of breast milk once breastfeeding has been firmly established.

No matter what the bottle contains, there are several tips that parents should follow in order to safely and successfully bottle feed their baby.

First, make sure that the baby is wearing a bib to protect in the event any spills or spit ups. This will make it easier to clean up after feeding the baby. Next, you should cradle the baby in one arm, but be sure not to place the baby in a full reclining position. Feeding the baby while he or she is entirely horizontal can cause ear infections. Your supporting arm can lean against a nursing pillow or the arm of a chair while you feed the baby.

Once you have placed the baby and yourself in the proper positions, you are ready to give the bottle to the infant. Gently ease the bottle into the baby's mouth and allow him or her to feed. Interact with the baby during this time by talking or singing to him or to her.

When the baby is finished, remove the bottle and set it aside. Now it is time to burp the baby. You will sometimes need to burp the baby in the middle of a feeding, especially younger babies and newborns. To burp the baby, make sure that you are supporting the head, and then rub the baby's back in a circular motion. Some parents prefer to gently pat their baby on the back in order to burp them. With practice, you will find a method that works both for you and for your baby.

After bottle feeding, make sure that you discard any remaining milk or formula and then clean the bottle properly. You can place glass bottles in the dishwasher for extra sanitation. Following these tips will help you successfully bottle feed your baby.

Symptoms Of Anxiety In Children: How To Recognize A Problem

2011-03-09T06:25:00.011+07:00

Anxiety to certain things is a normal reaction for people of all ages. Anxiety only becomes a problem when it begins to affect daily life, happiness, and relationships. Child anxiety is a serious problem that parents need to learn how to identify and treat properly.

The best way to do that is to learn about the symptoms of anxiety in children.

According to statistics, approximately 10 percent of all children will experience some type of anxiety as they are growing up. A child may be afraid of the dark, afraid of lightning and thunder storms or afraid of heights. As they grow older, their fears may change to school or socially related situations. Then again as a teen, their fears may be more peer related. It is only when that child or teen comes to the place where their fears keep them from functioning normally or happily that parents should become concerned.

There are seven different types of common anxiety disorders that children may have and each one has its own specific symptoms and warning signs. The first one is Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD. Children with this particular problem tend to worry about things in general for no discernible reason at all. Things from the past, things that are happening now, and things that may happen in the future are all of great concern to them.

They are often unable to concentrate and have a hard time relaxing. Their personal safety or that of their parents may produce anxiety to the point that they will refuse to go to school or may be unwilling to leave their parents' side, even for a few minutes. They may complain about being tired or of having headaches, stomach aches or muscle aches.

These children are usually perfectionists who are afraid of failing in any type of activity that they participate in. They have a tendency to be very hard on themselves. They constantly need to be reassured by others.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is another type of frequently seen child anxiety. This type of anxiety affects a child after they have had some type of traumatic experience. They may show intense anxiety if they are confronted with a situation similar to the one they experienced. These children may refuse to go certain places, refuse to be around certain people, or refuse to get into an automobile.

In every instance, the child will have a problem re-living the trauma. Webmd.com says that these children will tend to isolate themselves from family members and friends, and that young children suffering from this type of child anxiety "may suffer from delayed development in areas such as toilet training, motor skills and language."

Aada.org says that approximately four percent of children between the ages of seven and nine suffer from Separation Anxiety Disorder. A child with this problem will suffer tremendously if they are separated from their parents or other caregivers. They may be fearful that something will happen to them or the people they love if they are not with them. They may not want to go anywhere that would require them to spend the night away from home, and at home they may refuse to go to sleep unless someone stays with them at night.

There are some children who refuse to talk in situations where they need to. They show extreme fear, and they may withdraw in a corner, hide their face, twirl their hair with their fingers or avoid eye contact. This is an example of children with an anxiety disorder known as Selective Mutism.

Children with Social Anxiety Disorder suffer from an unreasonable fear of social situations. According to webmd.com, this is one of the most common causes of anxiety in children. They are often afraid to eat or drink anything in front of others. Other common symptoms are refusing to talk on the telephone, use public toilets or stand up in front of a group to give a school report.

If a child seems to be obsessed with performing certain actions or rituals, they may be suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. A child with this problem may be overly concerned with germs and cleanliness to the point that they spend an irrational amount of time washing their hands. Parents may find them checking hundreds of times a day to make sure that the doors are locked or they may have a difficult time throwing away totally useless items. They may be compelled to do certain activities over and over again, culminating in obsessions and compulsions.

Specific phobias are another type of child anxiety. These children are afraid of certain animals, heights, water, the dark or blood, among other things. They will present symptoms of crying, clinging desperately to someone, throwing a tantrum or complaining of headaches or stomachaches when they come in contact with the thing to which they have a phobia.

There are numerous symptoms of anxiety in children that parents should be aware of. It is very important to help a child work through these fears when they first present themselves in an effort to keep them from developing into a serious problem that may later effect every area of their life. By knowing the symptoms that children with anxiety display, parents can recognize the problem before it becomes serious or something that may follow them into adult or develop into a life-long struggle.

Baby Care Tips That You Need To Know

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Baby care is actually pleasurable but creates stress too among new parents. When you have a new born baby, it is obvious that you will have a tight time. You have to take proper care for the baby and you need to do your household chores too.

You might have already heard a lot of tips for baby care, but you should understand that your baby is unique and you have to find out what works best for your baby.

1. Breastfeeding is very essential for a newborn. If for some reasons, you are not able to feed your baby you can go for bottle feeding. After every feed, you have to burp the baby. This ensures that the baby doesn't get gas since newborns are prone to get gas faster.

2. If your baby is more than a few weeks old and you want to get back to work, you cannot expect your baby to forget about breastfeeding. If you know that you will leave your child with a nurse, you need to make your baby accustomed to bottle feeding much before leaving your baby under the care of a nurse.

3. Many moms feel that bottle feeding prevents them from feeding the baby with breast milk. But this is not true. There are breast pumps and you can use them to store your milk for bottle feeding.

4. When you feed the baby with bottle, be cautious that you don't let the baby sleep with the bottle in his or her mouth, especially, when your baby has developed teeth, this practice will create cavities leading to dental problems.

5. Until your child starts moving and getting dirty, a bath two or three times per week is sufficient. However, you have to give sponge bath every time you change the diaper. Leaving the baby with dirty diapers invites infections and you need to avoid this completely.

6. While you take the baby for bath, keep everything including towel, soap and shampoo ready. Never leave your baby alone in the tub even for a minute. Also when you bathe the baby, close the ears with towel or covers so that water doesn't enter his or her ears.

7. While you take the baby in your arms, keep him or her close to your chest and make him or her feel that he or she is in secure hands. Cuddle your baby often and kiss him or her on his or her hands and toes gently to ensure bonding.

8. Always wash the baby's clothes separately. You can even buy a counter top washing machine for washing only the baby's clothes and diapers.

9. You should never miss immunization vaccines for your baby to avoid problems in the future. Note down the vaccination dates and set an alarm for them in your notepad.

10. Never shake the baby or give him or her sudden shocks to stop him or her from crying. These sudden activities will affect the physical and mental health of the baby.

11 Tips For New Parents

2011-03-08T22:36:00.007+07:00

If you are a new parent, you will be excited already to have a little angel in your home. You will be already tired with your pregnancy and labor and now you need to care for the newborn as well as your house.

Both the parents must be engaged in nurturing the baby, as it is the responsibility of both the parents to do so. These tips will help you take care of your baby as new parents.

1. You can bring your parents home to help you take care of the baby, if this option is feasible, since you are inexperienced, your mom can help you in many things related to baby care.

2. Whenever you lift your newborn, life the baby with the hands supporting the back and the neck. The baby will be fragile and if you don't take care, his or her bones will break leading to serious consequences.

3. Always keep your baby wrapped, as he or she will loses heat faster. Make the baby wear baby clothes to keep him or her warm.

4. Breast feeding is highly essential for providing nutrition to the newborn. For at least 6 months, you have to breastfeed your baby. After feeding, you have to let the baby burp. The dad can take care of burping the baby, as this will enhance their bonding.

5. Your baby always expects security and you have to keep touching your baby whenever he or she is awake. The baby will feel secure in your hands and you can start talking to your baby to strengthen the bonding.

6. Love your baby irrespective of what he or she does. Enjoy doing whatever you do for the baby. When you love the baby, you can communicate your love with warm touches and hugs.

7. Your baby will urinate frequently and you have to use good quality diapers for the baby. Never keep the baby wet with urine, as it will lead to rashes. When your baby develops rashes, try applying baby ointments and change the diaper.

8. Wash the baby clothes and diapers separately and you can also use antiseptic liquids for rinsing the baby's clothes. You have to use plenty of water for washing baby clothes, as you don't want the harsh soaps to harm your baby.

9. Don't bathe the baby until the navel is healed. Then you can use tubs for bathing your baby. The dad can also be engaged in bathing the baby and when your baby starts enjoying water, you will have more fun.

10. Your babies will sleep for hours together and you have to ensure that your baby always sleeps on his or her back.

11. It is essential that the new parents also spend some time together talking about themselves. This will always keep you energetic to share the household activities and take up this responsibility of caring for the newborn cheerfully.

Sleeping Tips For Baby

2011-03-08T21:07:00.006+07:00

Feeling exhausted and having trouble putting your little one to sleep? Try these tips we collected from other mommies.

Remember, there are many ways to accomplish the same desired result. Apply the tips provided here and mold them to the result that best suits you, your baby and your family's needs.

For You:

* For the few weeks after birth, try to sleep when baby sleeps. Household chores can be done later....or better yet, by someone else.
* Allow for a night feeding to be done by dad or another supporting caregiver.

For Your Baby:
* Newborns cannot be "spoiled" in the first 2 months of life, therefore, assist your baby to fall asleep by any means necessary during this time (examples include holding, rocking, sing, giving pacifier).

* Avoiding "training" your baby to sleep only when it is dark and quiet. This can be accomplished by allowing for some noise with daytime activities.

* Apply slow and gentle pressure to your baby's skin just before nap time or bedtime to help your baby settle down.

* Try to put your baby to sleep before he/she becomes overtired. Babies can become extremely cranky when they are overtired.

* Sleep patterns in babies usually do not appear until approximately 3-4 months of age. You might find it helpful to keep a schedule of your baby's sleep pattern for approximately 1 week to help you determine your baby's sleep routine. Determining your baby's sleep routine will help you know when to put your baby to sleep before he/she becomes overtired.

Tips For Keeping Your Baby Healthy and Safe

2011-03-08T20:31:00.007+07:00

Here are some key points to remember to help keep your baby healthy and safe. Remember, newborns, preemies, and young infants are very susceptible to illness. Be sure to:

* Wash your hands frequently when caring for your little one (especially after going to the bathroom and changing diapers).
* Make sure all visitors wash their hands prior to touching your baby.
* Make sure visitors are not ill when coming to visit.
* Avoid large crowds for at least 1 month after your baby is born.

Help protected your baby from accidental injury. Be sure to:

* Always place your baby in an appropriate car seat when traveling in any vehicle.
* Never leave baby unattended (especially in the car, bathtub, changing table, or on any other elevated area).
* Always keep one hand on your baby when in the bathtub, on the changing table, or on any elevated area.
* Never shake your baby. Shaken baby syndrome can cause blindness, brain damage or death.
* Place baby on his/her back to sleep to reduce the likelihood of sudden infant death syndrome.
* Always test the temperature of the water before giving a bath.
* Use a non-skid mat in the bathtub.
* Never prop a bottle when feeding your baby.
* Never place pacifier on a string around baby's neck.
* Check pacifiers and nipples for holes and tears frequently.
* Always test the temperature of breast milk/formula prior to feeding your baby.
* Never leave pets or young children alone with your baby.
* Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
* Do not carry infant when you are cooking or holding hot drinks.
* Make sure that your baby's toys are unbreakable.
* Remove toys from the crib when your baby is sleeping or unattended.
* Never give an infant under 1 year of age honey. Honey has been associated with botulism.