Parents Want to Know 101

Importance of Prenatal Care

2023-06-29T10:32:00.002-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Prenatal care is extremly important when a woman becomes pregnant because it will help keep her and the baby healthy and safe Pregnant women need a village that starts with the team of prenatal, health care providers. With prenatal care, women can reduce the risks of complications for themselves and their baby. Let’s look at some key birth statistics that will help us understand this important fact.

Key Birth Statistics: There were 3,661,220 births recorded in 2022 in the U.S. The general fertility rate in 2021 was 56.1 births per 1,000 women ages 15–44, down less than 1% from 2021. In contrast, the number of births and general fertility rate both increased 1% from 2020 to 2021. Other findings in the new report from the Center of Disease Control (CDC): * 2022 birth rates * declined for women ages 20–24 and 30–34, * increased for women ages 25–29 and 35–49 years, and * were unchanged for females aged 10–14. * The birth rate for women ages 20–24 (60.4) also reached a record low. * The increased birth rate for women ages 40–44 in 2022 continues the upward trend for this age group, seen nearly every year since 1985. * The cesarean delivery rate increased for the third year in a row to 32.2% in 2022. * The low-risk cesarean delivery rate was unchanged at 26.3%. * The preterm birth rate declined 1% in 2022 to 10.38% after a 4% increase in 2021. Considering the statistics, prenatal care is essential for the well being of mother and baby. It is the best protection mothers can give themselves for a safe, healthy, and happy pregnancy and delivery. It is always hoped that there will be no complications, however, pregnant women need the necessary care, throughout her pregnancy, to insure that any risks are kept to a minimum.

Including the essential medical care, pregnancy wellness is also based on several other criteria: nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle. All of these criteria work together as partners to ensure a healthy pregnancy, safe delivery, and a healthy baby. What health care professional is trained and qualified to care for a pregnant woman? A doctor trained as an OB/GYN (Obstetrician/Gynecologist) and is board certified, is the best qualified health professional to determine how wellness is progressing with a pregnant woman and her unborn child. The OB/GYN is a doctor who specializes in healthcare for women in general, prenatal care, and delivery of the baby of a pregnant woman. The OB/GYN should be established at a hospital and have access to medical technology that enables him or her to identify complications, provide any needed care, and in some cases reverse adverse conditions that may lead to birth defects. It is important for the pregnant woman to follow the office visits schedule the doctor has planned. Scheduled prenatal care office visits should start as soon as the woman knows she is pregnant. The schedule I followed with my three pregnancies is still used today and is as follows: 1. The first 6 months of pregnancy, office visits are once a month. 2. During the 7th and 8th month of pregnancy, office visits are every 2 weeks. 3. During the 9th and final month of pregnancy, office visits. This schedule may vary if complications arise and closer observation is identified, as needed. One such complication type that pregnant women should be aware of is preeclampsia. What are the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia? 1. High blood pressure with or without protein in the urine. 2. Changes in vision, like blurriness, flashing lights, seeing spots or being sensitive to light. 3. Headache that doesn't go away. 4. Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), vomiting or dizziness. 5. Pain in the upper right belly area or in the shoulder. 6. Sudden weight gain (2 to 5 pounds in a week) 7. Swelling in the legs, hands or face. 8. Trouble breathing. Nutrition is vital for the wellness of mother and her unborn baby. The role of providing the pregnant woman with needed information on proper diet often falls to the OB/GYN. However, in some cases, if there are health problems involved in the pregnancy a professional dietician may be assigned to the pregnant woman. One of the first nutritional needs the pregnant woman is directed to add to her diet by the OB/GYN is the prenatal vitamin. Today, this is, mostly, made available over-the-counter instead of as a prescription. Prenatal vitamins do not, however, take the place of fresh healthy foods needed throughout the pregnancy, such as: green leafy vegetables, grains, fresh fruit, milk, and protein (meats, eggs). Your doctor should be able to provide you with information on the three balanced meals needed daily. In addition to your doctor’s information, you can also use the internet to research healthy diets for pregnant women. An OB/GYN or dietician can also give you information on weight gain, foods to avoid, and harmful Listeria. Listeria is a food-borne bacteria that is found in soil and water that pregnant woman should be aware of. Animals can be carriers, and fruits and vegetables can become contaminated by Listeria.

Exercise is helpful for the overall health of the pregnant woman. It helps in keeping a healthy heart, in defense of stress, and in keeping weight gain under control. Daily walking is one of the best exercises a pregnant woman can engage in. In recent years, Kegel exercises, also called pelvic floor exercises, have become popular among pregnant women. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the uterus, bladder, bowels, and vaginal wall. These exercises have been said to help ease a woman’s delivery. I do caution any woman who is pregnant to discuss your exercise program with your doctor before starting it.

Finally, a most important concern is Lifestyle. The pregnant woman’s lifestyle can affect her wellness, as well as, that of her unborn child. Research has shown that any use of alcohol, cigarettes, or the abuse of any drugs, whether it be, so called, 'street drugs,' or prescription drugs can cause birth defects and complications that can put the life of the pregnant woman and unborn child in jeopardy. There is no safe amount of these substances that a pregnant woman can take. When you are pregnant it is a good idea to become a label-reader to ensure you do not consume alcohol unknowingly, as some foods, that you are not aware of, may contain alcohol. A pregnant woman must always remember, whatever she takes in, her baby takes in. Although, there may be periods of not feeling well, a pregnant woman should continue to work, follow her usual routine, keep in contact with family and friends, and have a healthy socialization regimen.

It is important to recognize that pregnancy includes the father. The lifestyle of expectant 'parents' should include Lamaze, birthing classes in their plans to prepare for the birth of their baby. Lamaze classes teach controlled breathing exercises for the labor process and how parents can work together to bring their baby into the world. Your confidence will be lifted and many fears of just what will happen will be very much alleviated. Classes are scheduled for the third trimester, about the seventh month of pregnancy and last about 6 weeks. The good thing is, the cost of Lamaze classes are covered by most health insurances. Parents should continue a vibrant social and career lifestyle. Keep in touch with family and friends, keep working outside the home, as long as you feel well enough and the environment is safe for you and the baby.

All of these criteria are standard for the wellness of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. Caring for and loving a baby starts with prenatal care. Smile! You have a baby on the way!

Research Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/data.html https://www.who.int/southeastasia/news/detail/02-03-2023-world-birth-defects-day-many-birth-defects-one-voice#:~:text=Between%202010%20and%202019%2C%20birth,%25%20of%20under%2Dfive%20mortality. Copyright, Importance of Prenatal Care, Sharon Rose, Parents Want to Know 101, June 29, 2023. All rights reserved.

Celebrate Kwanzaa

2021-12-29T07:32:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Celebrate Kwanzaa, December 26, 2020 - January 1, 2021!! Kwanzaa, is a cultural celebration whose purpose is to celebrate and honor the history, culture and traditions of African-American and African people. It is celebrated in the United States and around the world. Each day is done with ceremony and purpose for living. Celebrating Kwanzaa is a CHOICE that many parents want to know more about. Here is more about Kwanzaa, its meaning, and how you can go about celebrating it.

Kwanzaa and What to Celebrate Each Day:

December 26: "Umoja" — Unity December 27: "Kujichagulia" — Self-determination December 28: "Ujima" — Collective work and responsibility December 29: "Ujamaa" — Cooperative economics December 30: "Nia" — Purpose December 31: "Kuumba" — Creativity January 1: "Imani" — Faith. We encourage all cultures to learn more about Kwanzaa! Learning about other cultures brings value to "living," in our global society. Find out more about Kwanzaa and see how to have a joyous Kwanzaa celebration by going to our "sources."

Sources: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/kwanzaa-history http://www.africa.upenn.edu/K-12/Kwanzaa_What_16661.html

Storytelling By Grandparents

2021-09-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Storytelling by grandparents carries valuable life lessons and one's family history. When I was growing up one thing I took great joy in was sitting at my grandfather's feet as he told stories of his boyhood and of him as a young father and husband. With a touch of humor, he told stories of his childhood fears, challenges, triumphs, successes, and the good times. My grandfather's stories and seeing all that he had achieved in raising a family, being a good father, husband, and grandfather, gave me courage and hope for what is possible in life if you are persistent and keep a positive attitude. Grandparents' wisdom and memories should be passed down like an heirloom, and it is often young grandchildren who make the best listeners. Make a connection with grandparents. They are the keeper of dreams!

Important Role of 'Dad' in a Child’s Life

2021-06-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

In his lifetime, any man can be capable of fathering a child, but what role in his child's life will cause that man to become a Dad. How special to be called, Dad. Let's look at the important role a Dad has in a child's life.

Children benefit emotionally and psychologically from the presence of an involved father, who fill the role of a Dad. Dads are so special! From birth, children of involved Dads are more likely to be emotionally secure, confident to explore their environment, and create more healthy social relationships with peers, as they grow into adolescence and young adulthood. They are also, less likely to get into trouble at home, school, or in the community. Babies who get a lot of affection and playful interaction from their Dads feel more secure. A Dad's playfulness with his children is more stimulating than the kind of playful activity mothers present. Rough housing with Dad can teach children how to react to aggressive impulses and physical contact without losing control of their emotions. Dads more so, encourage independence and a lack of fear of the world outside the home. Our Dads also encourage achievement and competition, while mothers are more likely to stress nurturing, both of which are important. The balance between the two is needed. A study of school-aged children found that children with involved Dads are less likely to experience depression, drug abuse, or display disruptive or delinquent behavior. Dads hold an important role in benefiting a child’s growth, development, and future that cannot, likely, be filled by anyone else. We are not saying that there are no children who did not have the benefit of having a Dad present in their lives, who do not succeed; there are. However, they can give testament to the rough road they and their mothers traveled to get there.

Another important role of Dad to his children is his behavior that is modeled when the children can observe a positive relationship between Mom and Dad. Children learn so much more from parents as role models than they do from what the parents say. When a son sees Dad showing respect to Mom, he learns from this modeling how to treat the women in his life. A daughter gains self-esteem, as a developing young woman should, and an expectation of how she should be treated by men in her life. This learning experience will carry over into their adolescence and adulthood. Happy Father's Day to all our Dads!! You play an important role in the lives of our children and in our families, and we celebrate you on this very special day!

Breastfeeding

2020-08-02T06:08:00.001-07:00

By Sharon Rose

It is World Breastfeeding Week 2020, August 1 - 7th, and we are talking about understanding breastfeeding, and its benefits. Mothers, I breastfed my 3 children, and to my surprise, I needed guidance in how to breastfeed successfully. I learned that it is most beneficial to your baby and yourself, to be patient, understand the changes to your body, and find support, as your milk comes in. Milk production starts while you are pregnant. Your body will start to produce a nutrient-rich, syrupy, pre-milk, Colostrum, while you are pregnant. You will notice your breast starting to increase in size at the halfway point of your pregnancy, about 16 to 22 weeks. This is due to the increased hormonal levels stimulating the production of colostrum. Your baby will need this yellow to whitish color miracle milk, colostrum, in its first few days of life. Colostrum includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and proteins (antibodies) that will fight disease-causing agents such as bacteria and viruses.

During pregnancy, you may or may not have some leaking of colostrum from your breast. If you should, you can use nursing pads to tuck in your bra to protect your clothing, so keep some handy. If you don’t have any leaking, don’t take this as an indication that you won’t be successful with breastfeeding.

Once your baby is born, if you are a first-time mother, your breast milk will take 3 to 4 days, and possibly up to 7 days to come in. As a first-time mother, my milk came in after 4 days. If you have had a child before, it may take less time. Be patient, because the time frame varies from one mother to another. You will notice that your breasts will become more firm once your milk comes in. I learned that breastfeeding is natural, but not easy, as I had expected it to be. Your obstetrician may offer the support services of a Lactation Consultant during your prenatal visits. If not, ask for information on working with a Lactation Consultant before your baby is born. Most hospitals, after you give birth, provide this support service. A Lactation Consultant is helpful in dispelling any myths, preparing you for what to expect, and how to have a happy, healthy breastfeeding experience, for you and your baby.

Great Books for Children Around the World (Ages 0 - 8)

2020-03-02T13:58:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Here are fun books, all with their own purpose, that your child will learn from and enjoy.

1. Good Night Moon, by Margaret Wise
Brown
2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle
3. Please, Baby, Please, by Spike Lee &
Tonya Lewis Lee
4. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, by Bill
Martin, Jr.
5. Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed,
by Ellen Christelow
6. Touch, Think, Learn: ABC; Touch, Think, Learn: Farm;
Touch, Think, Learn: Vehicles; series by Xavier
Deneux
7. Whose Toes Are Those, by Jabari Asim
8. Whose Knees Are These, by Jabari Asim
9. First 100 Words, by Roger Priddy
10. Baby Goes to Market, by Atinuke
11. Of Thee I Sing, by Barack Obama
12. Bahay Kabo, Hermès Alegre
13. Dragons Love Tacos, by Adam Rubin
14. Peekaboo Morning; Peekaboo Bedtime; Uh-Oh;
I Just Want to Say Good Night; Caribbean Dreams;
books by Rachel Isadora
15. Mon Petit Busy Day, by Annette
Tamarkin
16. Daniel Goes to the Potty; Daniel Tiger’s
Neighborhood (Daniel Book Series)
17. The King of Kindergarten, by Derrick Barnes
18. I See the Sun in India (Book Series: I
See the Sun in U.S.A., Mexico, China,
Nepal, etc., (travel books for kids) by Dedie King
19. Grandma and the Great Gourd: A Bengali Folktale,
by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
20. Peek-a-Who, by Nina Laden
21. Anna Carries Water, by Oliver Senior
22. Babies Around the World, by Puck
23. Corduroy, by Don Freeman
24. No Mirrors In My Nana’s House, with
song CD, by Ysaye M. Barwell
25. Richard Scarry’s Best Word Book Ever,
by Richard Scarry

26. My Friend Mis Amigos, by Taro Gomi
27. (Edgar and the Sausage Inspector, by
Jan Fearnley
28. The Snowy Day, by Ezra Jack Keats
29. Rufus the Bat Who Loved Colors, by
Toni Ungerer
30. A Chair for My Mother, by Vera B. Williams
31. I Love You Through and Through, by Bernadette
Rossetti-Shustak
32. Amazing Grace, by Mary Hoffman
33. Jabari Jumps, by Gaia Cornwall
34. Escargot, by Dashka Slater
35. Where the Sidewalk Ends, by Shel
Silverstein (Poetry)
36. Say Zoop, by Herve Tullet
37. The Berenstain Bears: and The Trouble with
Grown-Ups, (and series) by Stan & Jan Berenstain
38. Matilda, by Roald Dahl
39. Baby Faces, by DK Publishing
40. Baby's Book of the Body, by DK Publishing
41. Alligators All Around (ABC Book), by Maurice Sendak
42. Put Me in the Zoo, by Robert Lopshire
43. Black Bird Yellow Sun, by Steve Light
44. Imagine! (a wordless book) by Raul Colon
45. What’s Under My Bed? by James
Stevenson
46. The Pout-Pout Fish, by Deborah Diesen
47. Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes, by Mem Fox
48. Thread of Love, by Kabir Sehgal
49. Thai Children's Favorite Stories, by Marian D. Toth
50. Ocean Meets Sky, by the Fan Brothers

51. The Day the Crayons Quit, by Drew
Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers
52. I Am Human; I Am Love; I Am Peace: series by
Susan Verde
53. Sally at the Farm, by Stephen Huneck
54. The Little Engine that Could, by Watty
Piper
55. Little Gorilla, by Ruth Bornstein
56. The Wonderful Things You Will Be, Emily
Winfield Martin
57. Winnie the Pooh, by A. A. Milne
58. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl
59. The Tale of Peter Rabbit, by Beatrix
Potter
60. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You
See? by Bill Martin, Jr. & Eric Carle
61. Are You My Mother, by P. D. Eastman
62. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible,
No Good, Very Bad Day, by Judith
Viorst
63. Green Eggs and Ham; The Cat in the Hat; Horton
Hears a Who!; One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish;
Hop on Pop; Dr. Seuss's Book of Colors; books by Dr. Seuss
64. It’s the Clever Spider, Retold by Susan Lin
65. One Duck Stuck, by Phyllis Root

Copyright, Great Books for Children Around the World, Sharon Rose, Parents Want to Know 101, August 23, 2019. All rights reserved.

Starting Baby on Solid Food

2020-02-04T07:31:00.003-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Starting your baby on solid food is a big step. It is the milestone that will lay the foundation for healthy eating habits. Always consult with your pediatrician before you start your baby on solid food. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting babies on solid food at 6 months of age. Parents Want to Know 101 feels the best way to determine if your baby is ready for solid food is to go by the milestones your baby has accomplished and not by the calendar age of the baby.

Signs of Readiness for Solid Food:

1. Baby can hold head up. Baby needs to swallow solid food well.
2. Baby sits well in a high chair.
3. Baby makes chewing motions.
4. Baby has significant weight gain; at least, double birth weight.
5. Baby shows an interest in food; such as, grabbing at your food.
6. Baby is teething.
7. Baby can close mouth around a spoon.
8. The tongue reflex that would push food out of mouth is no longer
present

Another way to determine if you should start solid food, and what solid foods should be started, has to do with how allergy prone the baby may be. Look at factors, such as: history of allergy in the family, and has the child already had an allergy indicator like eczema. If there is a strong history of allergy in the family you may want to wait longer to introduce solid food, and be cautious and informed on what foods to introduce, and what foods to avoid until the baby is older.

Most babies start a cereal first; usually iron fortified rice cereal. When served it should be well diluted with the milk the baby is on; one teaspoon of cereal to 4 to 5 teaspoons of baby’s milk. However, it is okay to start a fruit first, such as banana, a fruit babies tend to be least allergic to. Introduce foods one at a time, at least, 4 days between each one to make sure your baby is not allergic.

There is no 'one' way, right way, or best time to start your baby on solid food. It has more to do with your baby’s development, which is likely different from another baby’s. To find out more on how to introduce solid foods and dairy to your baby’s diet go to the American Academy of Pediatrics website, www.healthychildren.org.

Remember, always consult with your pediatrician, first, before starting your baby on solid food, and go from there.

Parents Want You to Know 101: Family Fall Outdoor Activities - Bucket List

2019-10-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

During the fall season, our family has made picking out a pumpkin at the pumpkin patch a tradition.

The fall season is here! Time to make out a fall family outdoor activities bucket list. The autumnal equinox brought the fall season to the Northern Hemisphere on Wednesday, September 23, 2015, at 4:21 A.M., EST. The crisp fall weather and beauty of the colorful foliage is the perfect reward to lure families out to play. You may not be able to do all of the activities on our list, but choose your favorites or, better still, something you’ve been yearning to do. Here is our Family Fall Outdoor Activities Bucket List to get you going! Make great memories this fall!

1. Raking Leaves - Raking leaves is a great way to introduce children to fall fun. They can enjoy this activity without leaving home. The whole family can get involved with cleaning up the yard with the bonus of playing and jumping in the pile of leaves they rake up. Collect leaves to take indoors for fall arts and crafts activities.

2. Backyard Camping – Camping, sleeping under the stars, is a childhood memory no one should be denied. Camping in your backyard is convenient, because you don’t have to pack up anything and leave home. Make a soft pile of leaves for comfort in your sleeping bag. Grill a delicious meal, and roast marshmallows to make s’mores. Be sure to check your local laws for building bonfires or recreational fires. Some types of fires need a permit. Safety first!

3. Pumpkin Patch – Visiting a pumpkin patch is a fall tradition with many families. Some families like to visit the same one each year, and others like to change it up. Either way, it is fun for the whole family! The children enjoy picking out their own pumpkin to take home for carving into a jack-o-lantern or to decorate the home.

Many families make an annual fall visit to a pumpkin patch. The children love picking out their very own!

4. Apple Picking – What fun to pick apples and eat what you pick! Locate an apple orchard near you and make it a family outing to introduce the children to farm to table healthy eating. Tip: You may need a ladder. Parents can continue this learning experience at local farmer markets, likely, closer to home, picking apples from baskets and talking to the farmers on how they grow and care for their apple orchard.

Mother and daughter are enjoying apple picking. Could a fresh apple pie be in their future?

5. Corn Maze – Showing their generosity, some farmers transform their cornfields into corn mazes. Some are even made to be spooky around Halloween time. Both adults and children have lots of fun getting lost and trying to find their way out of the complicated mazes, designed intricately, to add to the fascination. You can hear squeals, shouts, and laughter in the cornfield, all evidence of the fun that goes on.

6. Hay Ride – Another tradition that started long ago, when farm life was a bigger part of the landscape in America, hay rides are still a favorite fall activity. A tractor or horse pulling a wagon of bales of hay and riders who sing songs and chatter, makes for a celebratory atmosphere. Many hay rides are taken in the moonlight for romantics and during Halloween to scare up enjoyment, as well.

A hay ride is a memorable way to enjoy the beauty of the fall foliage.

7. Hiking – Hiking is a great exercise that can be done year-round, but is so much more enjoyable when the weather is crisp and cool, and fall is showing off its colorful foliage. It’s an activity that allows families to enjoy exploring local, state, and national parks. Take a back pack with water, and snacks or picnic lunch; depending on your hiking plan. A sturdy shoe should be worn for your safety.

8. Nature Walk – A nature walk is much like hiking, but with a twist. Nature walking involves walking, exploring, and searching for living things of interest, such as: birds, bugs, butterflies, and types of trees and leaves.

9. Scavenger Hunt – Scavenger hunts can be created by making a list of things to collect while on a nature walk. Often set up as a competition, a scavenger hunt is a fun way to learn about nature. This is an activity that can be incorporated into a fall birthday party for a child in the family.

10. River Boating and Tubing – The beautiful foliage and serene atmosphere of the river and river bank, in fall, makes this activity so relaxing. As well, the areas of the river that are turbulent can make this activity daring and adventurous, and thrilling. Some of the various river activities are: canoeing, kayaking, tubing, whitewater rafting, pontoon boat fishing, stand-up paddle board, rafting, and riverboat ride. The family will want to go back again and again!

How to Help Your Tween Make Friends and Keep Them

2019-07-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Tweens need their parents guidance as they transition into a different world of socialization. At this time in their lives, friendships are very important, as we see them pull away from their parents and look more towards their peers. Many tweens are in middle school, and may be changing schools and meeting new schoolmates at this time. Having to make new friends can make the middle school friendships, which can tend to be difficult, even more challenging. It’s an important part of their lives because the friends they make will often become life-long friends and supporters. It's important, as parents, that we help them recognize and value healthy friendships. If your tween is having any social problems you may need to, diplomatically, help them make friends and understand how to keep them. Share with your tween, personal stories of how you have kept a long time friend.

Parents can also follow these guidelines: 1. Talk about peer pressure and strategies to deal with it; 2. Do not emphasize popularity; Encourage your tween to choose supportive friends, not cool friends; 3. Encourage the value of cultural diversity, inclusivity, and the acceptance of others differences; 4. Encourage supportive and positive friendships; 5. Involve their friends in your family activities, such as family movie night; 6. Compliment their friends on their positive attributes, such as, “I noticed your friend, Jeremy, cheering loudly for you to make that touchdown.” 7. Involve your tween in extra-curricular activities that they will enjoy; 8. Teach them to show positive body language with friends, such as greeting friends with a smile; 9. Encourage one-on-one time with friends and discourage excessive texting and emailing; explain that close bonds tend to come with person-to-person interaction; 10. As the parent, it is most important, to be a good listener.

Parents should know who their tweens friends are, and who their tween is spending time with at school, on social media, and in other activities. Help them make the choice to move on if a friendship is not a healthy one. Also important, meet their friends’ parents. You may make new friends too! Your tween may be spending time in the homes and under the supervision of the friend’s parents. You may even partner on planning activities that your tweens will do together. Remember, a parent’s role is key as your tween grows into a teenager. If you are interested in more information and help on this topic, see our resource website below.

Resource with more guidelines:

https://www.verywellfamily.com/tweens-and-friendships-3288538

The Father’s Role in the Contemporary Family: The Changing Role of Caregiver for Children

2019-04-01T14:35:00.001-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Many fathers are concerned that they won't know how to care for their newborn baby, or be gentle enough. Some men may think they should wait until the baby gets older and bigger before they start to handle them. However, fathers should start handling the baby as soon as the baby enters the world. Research shows that men have a hormonal response to becoming a father and nature takes over to guide them. That does not mean that fathers have no need to learn parental skills that will greatly enhance parenting. There is much to learn. What it does mean is, with time and practice, a father will become more confident in taking care of the baby. It will become natural for the father. The more time a father spends holding his baby the more skillful and comfortable at caring for the baby he will become. Every day a father spends involved, showing affection, and bonding with his baby, the stronger the paternal instincts will become.

Tips on Bonding with Baby for Dads:

1. Give Baby a bottle. If Mom is breastfeeding, Dad can give the water bottle. As Baby takes the bottle he also learns to recognize your face.

2. Diaper duty can be shared with Mom, and will be a big help. Some Dads may need instructions and practice on how to change a diaper, but it will soon come easy. We all had to learn!

3. Wear your baby. Use a sling or pouch that fits in the front of you and carry Baby around as you do chores at home, etc. Baby will be comforted by the feeling of being close to you.

4. Massage Baby with lotion after a bath or soothe Baby when fussy.

5. Give Baby a bath. You’ll both enjoy this!

6. Sing a lullaby. Baby won't be critical of the tune you carry and will be soothed by a gentle, lulling voice.

7. Read a good book to Baby. At any age, Baby will like hearing the sound of your voice, even before they can understand the content of the story.

8. Take a walk with Baby in the stroller, when weather permits. Talk to your baby as you walk along and enjoy the exercise for yourself.

9. Make Daddy play-time a part of Baby’s daily schedule. Keep it at about the same time each day, such as, when you first arrive home from work. Make funny faces and watch Baby giggle, play peek-a-boo, act-out traditional children’s rhymes, such as Pat-A-Cake and Itsy-Bitsy Spider. Baby will love this!

10. Be a part of Baby’s health care needs. Go to well-baby appointments. Take a sick day (full or half) and stay home to take care of Baby when he is sick.

The changing roles of the caregiver for the children under age 15 in the family have caused many fathers to find their nurturing side and mothers to take on more of a disciplinarian, authoritative role. Parents supporting one another is needed and necessary. However, we must remember how important keeping the balance of the mother-father role is within the family.

Research Source: http://money.cnn.com/2012/04/30/pf/stay-at-home-dad/index.htm

www.parentswanttoknow101.blogspot.com/bondingtimeforbabyanddad

Educational Resources for Dads: www.fatherhood.gov

www.fatherhood.org; www.parentswanttoknow101.blogspot.com.

www.facebook.com/parentswanttoknow101

Copyright, The Father’s Role in the Contemporary Family: The Changing Role of Caregiver for Children, Sharon Rose, Parents Want to Know 101, June 11, 2013; updated, July 29, 2014; updated, April 1, 2019. All rights reserved.

Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home

2019-03-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

I've been there before and remember all too well what it's like. Preparing to bring your newborn baby home from the hospital starts before you deliver your little bundle of joy. Here are 10 Tips for Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home:

1. Prepare a nursery for the baby or a sleeping area that is well ventilated, climate appropriate, and safe.

2. It is required by law to transport your baby by car in a car seat. Purchase the car seat in advance of delivery and read installation instructions so you or your partner is prepared to install it when you are ready to bring baby home.

3. Go out before your baby is born and purchase personal hygiene and any personal toiletry items you will need for yourself when you return home from delivery. If you will breastfeed don't forget breastfeeding bra, pads to protect clothing (insert in bra) and ointment to keep breast nipples supple and avoid dry and cracking skin.

4. If you had a baby shower you may have plenty of cute little clothes and toys for baby, but do make sure you also have baby bottles with nipples, baby bottle and rubber nipple brushes to clean them, and a baby monitor. Take time before you deliver to get needed items in place to avoid you or your partner having to run out to the store in the first week of bringing baby home. Get organized. Plus, it will give you, both, more time to rest and enjoy the baby.

5. Pack a bag for the hospital weeks before your contractions start or your water breaks. You will probably still be wearing maternity clothes after the birth so, pack a maternity outfit to wear home, or something loose fitting. Pack something comfortable for the baby to wear home, and we will mention this again. Here is a list of other things to take to the hospital with you in your bag: a picture ID (driver’s license), health insurance card, any needed hospital paperwork, your birth plan (outline of your preferences during labor and delivery), eyeglasses, bathrobe, gowns, slippers, socks, your favorite moisturizing lotion and body wash. Include things that will make you feel relaxed and comfortable, even healthy snacks.

6. Plan to dress baby in something comfortable to wear home from the hospital. Resist the temptation to dress baby up in a frilly dress or any other cumbersome clothes. A comfortable onesie, hand mitts, and hat is what baby will need. A pretty blanket can be the item to add to that to make baby look extra special on the trip home.

7. Send all large items home, like flowers or gifts, the day before you are to depart for home, after your new baby has been born. The day baby goes home will be much more relaxed.

8. Before you leave the hospital ask for a phone number for the maternity ward. Connect with a nurse or get the name of one, and her work shift, that you can call back and ask questions of once you have returned home. Also, connect with a lactation consultant/nurse, during your hospital stay, if you plan to breastfeed. This is a service most hospitals provide. Ask for a contact number for the lactation consultant, in case you have future questions or need assistance after you leave the hospital.

9. Schedule baby's first appointment before you leave the hospital. You are usually asked to bring a newborn baby back for a well baby check-up 2 to 4 days after you give birth if you leave the hospital within 48 hours.

10. Have guidelines for visitors once baby gets home. Feel good about protecting baby. You may want to wait a week before allowing visitors other than helpers, such as grandparents. Cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends will understand. They may have found themselves in your situation before, in bringing a new baby home. Restrict anyone who appears to be sick, even if they say it's allergies, from visiting baby, until they are well again. Coughing and sneezing in baby’s environment could cause baby to catch something that is contagious. Your baby is not well equipped to fight off contagious diseases. Make ‘no touching baby,’ a rule for anyone that does visit. Encourage them to enjoy looking at baby and watching the first cute facial expressions. Direct anyone touching the baby, baby's clothing, or bedding, while caring for the baby, to wash his or her hands. Make hand washing a frequent practice.

Giving baby a "calm" welcome home is so important. It sets the tone for a great beginning for a great life.

Whether your baby comes home from the hospital right away, arrives later, or joins the family through adoption, homecoming is a major event.

Importance of Breastfeeding for Mother and Baby

2019-03-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Mothers, I breastfed each of my 3 children, and to my surprise, I needed guidance in how to breastfeed successfully. I learned that it is so beneficial to your baby and yourself, to be patient, understand the changes to your body, and find support, as your milk comes in. Milk production starts while you are pregnant. Your body will start to produce a nutrient-rich, syrupy, pre-milk, Colostrum, while you are pregnant. You will notice your breast starting to increase in size at the halfway point of your pregnancy, about 16 to 22 weeks. This is due to the increased hormonal levels stimulating the production of Colostrum. Your baby will need this yellow to whitish color miracle milk, Colostrum, in its first few days of life. Colostrum includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and proteins (antibodies) that will fight disease-causing agents such as bacteria and viruses.

During pregnancy, you may or may not have some leaking of colostrum from your breast. If you should, you can use nursing pads to tuck in your bra to protect your clothing, so keep some handy. If you don’t have any leaking, don’t take this as an indication that you won’t be successful with breastfeeding.

Once your baby is born, if you are a first-time mother, your breast milk will take 3 to 4 days, and possibly up to 7 days to come in. As a first-time mother, my milk came in after 4 days. If you have had a child before, it may take less time. Be patient, because the time frame varies from one mother to another. You will notice that your breasts will become more firm once your milk comes in. I learned that breastfeeding is natural, but not easy, as I had expected it to be. Your obstetrician may offer the support services of a Lactation Consultant during your prenatal visits. If not, ask for information on working with a Lactation Consultant before your baby is born. Most hospitals, after you give birth, provide this support service. A Lactation Consultant is helpful in dispelling any myths, preparing you for what to expect, and how to have a happy, healthy breastfeeding experience, for you and your baby.

While breastfeeding, I also learned that continuing to take prenatal vitamins is best. With a newborn, I was so busy caring for the baby, that I did miss a few meals. It’s important to get the vitamins and minerals that you and the baby need, to build a healthy foundation for the baby, which is your breastfeeding goal. Keep up your balanced diet and drink plenty of water and milk. Breastfeeding gives baby a strong and healthy start, to welcome him to the world.

What Are We Having: A Boy or a Girl?

2019-02-28T06:44:00.002-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Expectant mothers, fathers, and the whole family, want to know, is it a boy or a girl? Curiosity and excitement always surrounds the gender of the baby! Your baby’s gender is set as soon as the sperm meets the egg. It is, precisely, at conception, when a baby gets 23 chromosomes from each parent. Some parents have their heart set on a boy, others, a girl. In some cases a couple may differ on whether they want to know, or not, before the baby is born.

Medical science has tests that allows you to know, before the birth, what the gender of the baby is. When parents know ahead of time they can prepare mentally, better select baby items, and get the nursery ready for their new bundle of joy. Knowing in advance, allows time for any disappointment over the gender of the baby to have disappeared by the birth.

When can you find out if the baby is a boy or girl? For parents who want to know, during your mid-pregnancy ultrasound, which is most often done between 18 and 22 weeks, the technician can usually get a clear view of the baby’s genitals. The ultrasound can also be used to determine the health, age, and position of the baby. It is also possible to find out the gender of the baby from a genetic test like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis. However, the purpose of tests such as these is to determine whether a baby has a genetic disorder or a chromosomal abnormality, like Down syndrome. According to the 2017 statistics on births done by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the percentage of women having babies in their 40’s has risen, sharply. We find women, in this high risk group for birth defects, opting to take these tests. CVS is usually done between 10 and 13 weeks, and amniocentesis between 16 and 20 weeks. If they want to, they can find out the gender of the baby at this time. Women who are not at increased risk of genetic and chromosomal problems don't usually take CVS or amniocentesis, partly, because these tests are invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage. The ultrasound is usually the choice, for most women, who want to find out the gender of their baby.

Throughout history, predicting the baby’s gender has been what expectant parents had fun with. Some even basing their predictions on myths and old wives’ tales, like boy babies are carried high and girl babies are carried low. I, for one, experienced just the opposite. There was a time when preparing boys and girls for their future was so different. That is not so today. In the past, boys and girls were not reared with the same kind of future or career in mind. Boys and girls did not participate in the same activities, and girls were not expected to break the glass ceiling. Just today, I read the amazing news of 21 year old Los Angeles native, Antoinette “Toni” Harris, the first woman in history who will attend college on a full football scholarship, to play at a skill position. Harris has signed a letter of intent to play for Central Methodist University in Missouri. Harris says, her ultimate goal is play for the NFL. I’m sure Harris’ parents never imaged when their baby girl was born that she would become a football player. Although, some struggles for gender equality still remain in our society and around the world, young ladies like Toni Harris are showing the world that the equality gap between men and women is closing.

The birth of a baby is a miracle and a blessing to behold! Whether your baby is a boy or a girl, give them a variety of educational and learning opportunities that are not based on what gender they are. For parents, the excitement and joy of having a baby, and watching them grow, can last a lifetime!

Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr67/nvsr67_08-508.pdf

Toni Harris Makes History: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.si.com/college-football/2019/02/27/female-football-player-toni-harris-makes-history-college-scholarship-offer
Tutu/football photo: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PoufCouture?ref=l2-shopheader-name

Pregnancy and Prenatal Care

2019-02-26T15:27:00.001-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Prenatal care is so important because it will help keep you and your baby healthy. Pregnant women need a village that starts with the team of prenatal care providers. With regular prenatal care women can reduce the risks of complications for themselves and their baby. Let’s look at some key birth statistics to bring that into reality.

Key Birth Statistics -

Data for United States in 2017:

Number of births: 3,855,500

Birth rate: 11.8 per 1,000 population

Fertility rate: 60.3 births per 1,000 women aged 15-44 years

Percent born low birthweight: 6.56%

Infant mortality per 1,000 live births: 5.8%

Premature births (birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy) 9.9%

Birth defects - affects 1 in every 33 babies born each year in the U.S.

Age of mothers giving birth - Birth rates decreased for females in age groups 15–39, and increased for females aged 40–44, from 2016 to 2017.

Considering the statistics, prenatal care is essential for the well being of mother and baby. It is the best protection mothers can give themselves for a safe, healthy, and happy pregnancy and delivery.

There are several criteria by which pregnancy wellness is based. Each one is important. They work together as partners would to ensure a healthy pregnancy, safe delivery, and a healthy baby. The criteria are medical care, nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle.

Medical care is imperative during pregnancy.  A doctor trained as an OB/GYN  (Obstetrician/Gynecologist) is the best qualified health professional to determine how wellness is progressing with a pregnant woman and her unborn child.  The OB/GYN is a doctor who specializes in healthcare for women in general, prenatal care, and delivery of the baby of a pregnant woman. The OB/GYN should be established at a hospital and have access to medical technology that enables him or her to identify complications, provide any needed care, and in some cases reverse adverse conditions that may lead to birth defects.  It is important for the pregnant woman to follow the office visits schedule the doctor has planned.  Scheduled prenatal care office visits should start as soon as the woman knows she is pregnant.  The schedule I followed with my three pregnancies is still used today and is as follows:

1. The first 6 months of pregnancy, office visits are once a month.

2. During the 7^th and 8^th month of pregnancy, office visits are every 2 weeks.

3. During the 9^th and final month of pregnancy, office visits are once a week until delivery.

Nutrition is vital for the wellness of mother and her unborn baby.  The role of providing the pregnant woman with needed information on proper diet often falls to the OB/GYN. However, in some cases, if there are health problems involved in the pregnancy a professional dietician may be assigned to the pregnant woman.  One of the first nutritional needs the pregnant woman is directed to add to her diet by the OB/GYN is the prenatal vitamin.  Today, this is, mostly, made available over-the-counter instead of as a prescription.  Prenatal vitamins do not, however, take the place of fresh healthy foods needed throughout the pregnancy, such as: green leafy vegetables, grains, fresh fruit, milk, and protein (meats, eggs).  Your doctor should be able to provide you with information on the three balanced meals needed daily. In addition to your doctor’s information, you can also use the internet to research healthy diets for pregnant women. An OB/GYN or dietician can also give you information on weight gain, foods to avoid, and harmful Listeria.  Listeria is bacteria that is found in soil and water that pregnant woman should be aware of.  Animals can be carriers, and fruits and vegetables can become contaminated by Listeria also. Being a lover of the fruit, cantaloupe, I have never forgotten the summer of 2011, when there was a widespread outbreak of Listeria, monocytogenes food poisoning, which was the result of contaminated cantaloupes, across 28 U.S., states. The final report given in 2012, listed 33 deaths and 147 total confirmed cases since the beginning of the first recorded case of Listeria on July 31, 2011.  Pregnant women are more susceptible to this than others and should ask their doctor for information on Listeria, a foodborne illness.

  Exercise is helpful for the overall health of the pregnant woman.  It helps in keeping a healthy heart, in defense of stress, and in keeping weight gain under control.  Daily walking is one of the best exercises a pregnant woman can engage in.  In recent years, Kegel exercises, also called pelvic floor exercises, have become popular among pregnant women.  Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the uterus, bladder, bowels, and vaginal wall.  These exercises have been said to help ease a woman’s delivery.  I do caution any woman who is pregnant to discuss your exercise program with your doctor before starting it.

      Finally, a most important concern is Lifestyle. The pregnant woman’s lifestyle can affect her wellness, as well as, that of her unborn child.  Research has shown that any use of alcohol, cigarettes, or the abuse of any drugs, whether it be, so called, “street drugs,” or prescription drugs, can cause birth defects and complications that can put the life of the pregnant woman and unborn child in jeopardy.  There is no safe amount of these substances that a pregnant woman can take.  When you are pregnant it is a good idea to become a label-reader to ensure you do not consume alcohol unknowingly, as some foods, that you are not aware of, may contain alcohol.  A pregnant woman must always remember, whatever she takes in, her baby takes in.  Although, there may be periods of not feeling well, a pregnant woman should continue to work, follow her usual routine, keep in contact with family and friends, and have a healthy socialization regimen.

The lifestyle of expectant parents should include Lamaze, birthing classes, in their plans to prepare for the birth of their baby. Lamaze classes teach controlled breathing exercises for the labor process and how parents can work together to bring their baby into the world. Your confidence will be lifted and many fears of just what will happen will be very much alleviated. Classes are scheduled for the third trimester, about the seventh month of pregnancy and last about 6 weeks. The good thing is, the cost of Lamaze classes are covered by most health insurances.

Parents should continue a vibrant social and career lifestyle. Keep in touch with family and friends, keep working outside the home, as long as you feel well enough and the environment is safe for you and the baby.

All of these criteria are standard for the wellness of a pregnant woman and her unborn child.  Caring for and loving a baby starts with prenatal care. Smile! You have a baby on the way!

Research Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/births.htm

www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/spanish/prenatalcare.html

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_United_States_listeriosis_outbreak

Reading Sources:

Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy, by Mayo Clinic, May, 2011.

Everything You Need to Know About Prenatal Care and Having a Healthy Pregnancy, by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Baltimore, MD and S. Smith, October 31, 2008.

Learning Before Birth: Every Child Deserves Giftedness, by Brent Logan, December 3, 2003.

Online Reading Sources:

A New Life and Prenatal Care, article, by Sharon Rose https://parentswanttoknow101.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-life-and-prenatal-care.html?m=1

www.childbirthconnection.org
Copyright, Pregnancy and Prenatal Care, Sharon Rose, Parents Want to Know 101, February 26, 2019. All rights reserved.

How to Talk to Your Child

2019-02-20T12:31:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

It’s important to start early in your child’s life having age appropriate talks during a relaxed time to build trust and a bond. Don't wait until there is a problem to talk to your child. Start with positive language and listening. How your child 'feels' about daily experiences, traumatic events, his environment, including how you and others communicate with him, will be reflected in his behavior. Be prepared to talk to your child in a way to bring greater understanding to any situation and soothe fears away.

If your child questions your authority, has a temper tantrum, starts a fight with a sibling, or is whiny and fretful all day, don't react by yelling or becoming snappy and fussy. You will have missed a teaching moment. Remain calm and find those positive words that are needed. Avoid negative language like, “no,” and “don’t.” Use statements that express what you expect. For example: “Only walk inside.” Instead of, “Don’t walk inside.” Eliminate language that makes-fun-of or is name-calling. For example, eliminate phrases like, “You’re such a big baby;” or “You’re a bad child.” This will take practice and will lead to good communication with your child. Start talking to your child, today!

I Love Books!

2019-02-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

I Love Books! ....and I wanted my children to love books too! Nurture a love for books in your child by starting early. I started reading to each of my 3 children at 3 months old, just so they could hear more of my voice. However, 4 or 5 months is a good age to start reading to your baby. Reading a good book to your baby allows them to hear your voice more, and learn to recognize it. As my children grew to 6, 9, and 12 months old, they looked at the pictures more and more, at each stage. Babies tend to hit the pages, coo, and squeal with delight, as they marvel at the pictures on the pretty, colorful pages. My own children loved to put the cloth books in their mouths! I liked the cloth books for them when they were babies. I could pop them in the washing machine and they were all clean again. Books were fun for them!

As toddlers, they easily turned the pages and showed an interest in listening to what the story was about. They also had their favorite books they wanted to read, over and over again. It's fine if they won't sit still to listen to the whole story; that will come, in time. There may even be a few scribbles with crayons and torn pages, here and there, but the reading readiness benefits are worth it.

Bedtime stories often become a favorite, too. Many parents, as did I, find that establishing this routine is a good way to help their toddler calm down, after a day filled with play, and reduce their stress level, making it easier to fall asleep. The sound of a parents voice is soothing and reassuring. Also, by the time your child is a toddler, provide crayons and paper for him to play-write (scribble) and draw in his own beginners way. This activity encourages the imaginary stories and ideas that help stimulate a desire to learn to read stories. One day they will be reading to you! I Love Books!

*Added Resource - How to choose books for your young child: http://www.parents.com/kids/education/reading/get-your-kids-excited-about-books-3-to-4-years/?sssdmh=dm17.608615&esrc=nwpmmdailytip072712&email=4307291495

Physical/Movement Development Milestones for 2 Year-Olds

2019-02-08T08:14:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Most babies walk between the ages of 9 - 12 months, however, it is perfectly normal for babies not to walk until they are 14 to 17 months. By the time you experience the first year of walking with your toddler, and he turns 2 years-old, he is beginning to run. I was so excited at the prospect of my first baby, a son, walking! When the ‘walking’ milestone time was near, I didn’t want him out of my sight for a moment, because I didn’t want to miss seeing his first steps. He walked at 9 months! I was lucky to be there to see him step away from the table in our living room. He had pulled himself into a standing position and circled the table for a month. Then, suddenly, he stepped away! He looked as surprised as I did! That same excited, watchful, but worrisome feeling followed with my second and third child, both daughters. Many parents miss the moment of those very first steps becaue it could happen at any time in the milestone life of a toddler. Parents have to get their energy level up with all the exploring and play that goes on as your toddler approaches 2 years-old. At 2 years-old the toddling walk will start to become more confident and the running and jumping will start. Get ready for more excitement! Here’s what else you should expect during the year of the 2 year-old.

Physical/Movement Milestones of the 2 Year-Old:

1. Can feed themselves well, but still needs to work on neatness.

2. Beginning to run and jump.

3. Can walk up and down stairs holding a rail.

4. Can kick a ball.

5. Climbs onto and down from furniture without help.

6. Draws circles and straight lines.

7. Can build a tower of 4 blocks or more.

8. Throws ball overhand.

9. May start to use one hand more than the other.

10. Stands on tiptoes.
11. Mostly plays beside other children, but is beginning to include other
children in chasing games.

As your toddler starts to use his whole body to carry out gross and fine motor skills, you can count on your 2 year-old becoming better at climbing and taking advantage of this skill to sit down in a chair and climb on other furniture. At this stage, it is a time that parents must pay even closer attention to safety issues. Accidents happen with bookshelves that can fall over on a child, and household chemicals that are not out of reach of a toddler who can climb. So, securely attach bookshelves, continue to use baby safety gates, and give your 2 year-old close supervision. You’ve heard the phrase, “They are so quick!”

Parents are the best playmates for their 2 year-old! This is a stage that will really take you back to your memories of being a child. Playing with your child at the park on the swings, on the slide, and playing ball.

Winter Weather Safety: Protect Your Child from Frostbite and Hypothermia

2019-01-31T15:21:00.002-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Building a snowman is a great childhood memory of mine. In many cities, snow is falling and children are excited to play in it. Our children should be dressed properly, and parents must decide if the temperature is too low, or not, for your child to play in.

Frostbite is the freezing of superficial tissues of the face, ears, fingers and toes. Signs and symptoms include: numbness, pain, tingling, burning, skin turns hard and white, skin starts to itch, skin starts to peel or blister, etc.

Always remember to wear gloves in snow and freezing temperatures. Frostbite can occur.

Hypothermia is a more severe reaction to exposure to cold, is defined as a significant drop in body core temperature. Symptoms of hypothermia includes: shivering; as well as, intense shivering, lack of coordination and sluggishness; cold sensation, goosebumps, confusion, and numbness; difficulty speaking, mental confusion, stumbling, depression; unconsciousness; trouble seeing; etc. *Check out more symptoms, safety tips, and how to treat frostbite and hypothermia at our ‘source,’ to keep our children and yourself safe, in the winter weather. If either is suspected, call 911. Bundle up and dress for the weather!

Language in Toddlers: Milestone Year, Age 2

2019-01-15T13:46:00.000-08:00

By Sharon Rose

Let’s talk about language in the milestone year, age 2. This will be a memorable year. There will be much growth and development in independent behavior and language will be a big part of that. How exciting when your toddler starts to communicate with you! Although every child grows and develops at their own pace, toddler speech development follows a fairly predictable path. By age 2, your toddler should have a vocabulary of at least 50 or more words. Several of the more common words most likely mastered are: Mommy, Daddy, juice, milk, cookie, hot, hi, bye, car, see, and ball. Your 2 year-old should also be putting together two-word sentences, such as: “more juice.” They are listening to you and understand much more than they can say. Don’t use ‘baby talk!’ As well, Mom and Dad, watch what you say if you don’t want to hear it repeated. Don’t worry about how your toddler pronounces words, that will improve in time. However, you should be concerned if your toddler is not responding to you when you repeat something over and over again. In this case, a middle ear infection or a speech delay could be of concern. In either case, check with your pediatrician and/or a speech-language pathologist. A health care professional can help parents understand the difference in a ‘late talker,’ which children grow out of, and developmental issues, such as autism and cerebral palsy.

Gestures are also a part of language development. Out stretched arms, which signals, “Pick me up,” is one of the first gestures babies use, early, in language development. You may find that your toddler does a lot of pointing. For example: If he points to the refrigerator, ask, "Do you want something to drink?" (Wait for a response.) Then say, “Do you want juice?

(Wait for a response.) You say, “Ok, let’s get some juice." Interactions matching their gestures with your verbal responses are behaviors that will encourage your toddler to respond and participate in conversations. Further, encourage this by playing gesture-games, like ‘Pat-a-Cake,’ and ‘So-Big.’ Help your toddler learn the appropriate words for body parts, pictures in books, objects, and familiar people: "Where is your ear?", “Where is your nose?”, “Show me the ball," and "Where is Mommy?" Educational toys and books are great tools to help encourage language, naturally, without seeming to instruct or push. Play time and story time can become a fun part of your toddlers day, as you see their language grow right before your eyes!

The Illinois Commitment: For Illinois College Bound Students, Fall 2019

2018-09-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

FREE TUITION - College bound students and their parents are always seeking scholarships and other various means of financing a college education. A college education has become more expensive each year. So, here is important and welcome information for students and their parents who reside in the state of Illinois. A new program called, Illinois Commitment, was recently introduced by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The university will offer FREE TUITION to qualifying students. Students whose combined household income is $61,000 or less can qualify for free tuition starting fall, 2019. The university’s website states, a student qualifies for free tuition if they meet the following criteria:

1. They are an Illinois resident (parents listed on FAFSA must also be residents)

2. Their family income is $61,000 or less

3. Their family’s assets are less than $50,000

4. They are admitted as a new freshman or transfer student

5. They are under the age of 24

This is a great opportunity that will create a brighter future for the students of Illinois.

*For more information please visit: https://admissions.illinois.edu/commitment.

*More About, Parents Want to Know 101:

FYI our fan page: www.facebook.com/parentswanttoknow101
Our blog: www.parentswanttoknow101.blogspot.com

When to Start Teaching Children to Pray

2018-07-29T11:27:00.001-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Children can start learning to pray even before they learn to speak in coherent sentences. Proverbs 22:6 says: "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." You can start by teaching a very young child to make prayer hands and saying the words of the prayer for them. In doing so, for children as young as 12 months, (or when the child starts eating at a feeding table) you are building and reinforcing prayer as a good habit. Once your child learns language and begins to speak, he will learn various prayers through listening to the repetition of them, for example: in the morning, at mealtime, and at bedtime.

Children love rhyming phrases and will enjoy learning prayers that rhyme. So, start by teaching prayers that rhyme or have poetic rhythm. Most children learn these quickly. Your child will come to understand that praying is a part of his family's daily schedule by seeing you pray at certain times of the day. Have children to understand that God is our helper who loves us and that praying is having a conversation with God. Keep it simple.

6 Dinner Conversation Starters

2018-07-16T16:23:00.002-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Dinner conversation starters can help make eating together at the table a tradition in your household. Table boredom, OUT! There is promising news for strengthening family bonds, that studies show most families eat dinner at home most nights. But I have found no clear studies as to what percentage of families are actually sitting down at the table, together, to share a meal. Often times, TV shows and social media are a distraction, with family members scattered in various rooms at mealtime. With this valuable old tradition, this quality time will not only strengthen relationships, but improve family nutrition. Parents are right there to encourage children to make good food choices at the table. Parents and children can also find a comfort level in communicating with one another. It's a great time to find out more about one another, from how your day went, to what your dreams are. The family will be happier and healthier! Here is our Dinner Conversation Starter List. Have your questions ready and add your own questions to the list. Personalize it! Make it fun!

Trivia Questions:

1. On what date was the Declaration of Independence (U.S.A.) signed?
Answer: July 4, 1776

2. What city is the Golden Gate Bridge located?
Answer: San Francisco

3. Name a musical group, past or present, made up of family members only.
Answer: The Jackson 5, DeBarge, BeBe & CeCe Winan, Bee Gees, The Osmonds, Von Trapp Family, The Carpenters, Ashford & Simpson, The Staple Singers, The Everly Brothers, Gladys Knight & The Pips, LMFAO, The Pointer Sisters, Sister Sledge, The Ronettes, The Isley Brothers, Hanson Band, The Jonas Brothers, and more.

Choices Questions:

4. Do you prefer dogs or cats?

5. What genre movies or TV do you prefer: dramas, comedy, or adventure and action?

6. What is your dream career?

Important Role of 'Dad' in a Child's Life

2018-06-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Rose

In his lifetime, any man can be capable of fathering a child, but what role in his child's life will cause that man to become a Dad. How special to be called, Dad. Let's look at the important role a Dad has in a child's life.

Children benefit emotionally and psychologically from the presence of an involved father, who fill the role of a Dad. Dads are so special! From birth, children of involved Dads are more likely to be emotionally secure, confident to explore their environment, and create more healthy social relationships with peers, as they grow into adolescence and young adulthood. They are also, less likely to get into trouble at home, school, or in the community. Babies who get a lot of affection and playful interaction from their Dads feel more secure. A Dad's playfulness with his children is more stimulating than the kind of playful activity mothers present. Rough housing with Dad can teach children how to react to aggressive impulses and physical contact without losing control of their emotions. Dads more so, encourage independence and a lack of fear of the world outside the home. Our Dads also encourage achievement and competition, while mothers are more likely to stress nurturing, both of which are important. The balance between the two is needed. A study of school-aged children found that children with involved Dads are less likely to experience depression, drug abuse, or display disruptive or delinquent behavior. Dads hold an important role in benefiting a child’s growth, development, and future that cannot, likely, be filled by anyone else. We are not saying that there are no children who did not have the benefit of having a Dad present in their lives, who do not succeed; there are. However, they can give testament to the rough road they and their mothers traveled to get there.

Another important role of Dad to his children is his behavior that is modeled when the children can observe a positive relationship between Mom and Dad. Children learn so much more from parents as role models than they do from what the parents say. When a son sees Dad showing respect to Mom, he learns from this modeling, how to treat the women in his. A daughter gains self-esteem, as a developing young woman should, and an expectation of how she should be treated by men in her life. This learning experience will carry over into their adolescence and adulthood.

Happy Father's Day to all our Dads!! You play an important role in the lives of our children and in our families, and we celebrate you on this very special day!

Room Sharing with Your Newborn

2018-06-12T09:04:00.001-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Before the birth of my first baby, room sharing with my newborn was something I had decided to do. As a gift, my mother gave me a lovely, white, straw bassinet with white lining with ruffles that hung over the sides, to sit by my bed. Although, I had set up a beautiful nursery with baby bed, mobile, changing station, wall decor, and curtains, I felt my baby would be more safe close to me during these early months. The nursery only lacked the rocking chair that I always wanted to soothe and rock my baby to sleep. The nursery and rocking chair could wait for several months, for the sake of safety.

The American Academy of Pediatrics terms room sharing, with your newborn as sharing a room and giving your newborn their own sleeping space. The AAP recommends room sharing at least 6 months and up to 12 months being the best option. According to the AAP safe sleep guidelines, this sleep space should have a flat, firm surface, and a tight fitting sheet. My husband and I did room sharing with our first baby for the first 8 months. We did room sharing with our next two babies until they were 12 months old. We put safety first. Various issues like: frequent waking during the night for feeding, colic, waking due to teething and allergy illnesses made this a good fit for us. Use your own judgement and don’t rush it. Studies have shown that room sharing can reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) by up to 50%.

Good sleeping options to set up in your bedroom for your baby can be a bassinet or a pack and play. The prices of each can vary from low to high. A bassinet can have up to a 20 pounds limit, whereas, a pack and play can have up to a 28 pounds limit and a height limit of 35 inches. You can decide what will work best for you and your baby. Now you may be wondering, what should you do if you are room sharing and your baby outgrows the bassinet and pack and play. I can tell you what we did. We moved the larger baby bed into our bedroom, temporarily, and put the bassinet away. If you have the space in your bedroom, this is a good option until you feel it is safe for your baby to be further away from you. Using a baby monitor can be another option. I want you to know that our beautiful baby nursery received plenty of use.

Following AAP safe sleeping guidelines for baby is very important for baby's safety.

Travel Tips for the Well-Traveled Family, Part 5: Traveling with Children

2018-06-05T08:37:00.003-07:00

By Sharon Rose

Summer vacation time is here! Families with children will travel during this time to visit family, friends, and to festive entertainment venues. Since it is the most challenging, we are going to talk traveling on an airplane with children. I have heard some travel advisers strongly suggest traveling with children at nighttime so they will sleep and therefore not be a problem. I believe children should have the opportunity to travel anywhere and be wide awake so they can learn through the experience. The best way for children to learn is through exposure to the world they live in. Issues that come up while traveling with children, such as, flight delays, fidgety or boisterous behavior, cabin pressure, or a fellow passenger that has a low tolerance for children can be managed. Let’s get started sorting it out.

Safety

A few days before you depart for vacation, take some time to go over basic safety rules and strategies with your kids, some of which may already be in place in your home. A good way to approach this would be to remind them that these are rules that they are already familiar with because many are the same rules we have at home. The reminder is needed; after-all, the excitement of new places and experiences can be overwhelming, and curiosity may cause kids to set their rules aside. Go over home phone number, address, and the proper use of the 911 emergency number. Since you are away from home it is vital that your child memorize your cell phone number, as well. There is also the option of creating a safety card, and have your child keep it with him, for example, in his pocket. The card should have all vital information on it, to include, the name of the hotel where you are staying, your cell phone number, and your first name. If you don't mind writing on your child you can write your phone number on your child's arm. There is even a company that has introduced a temporary tatoos for children with a space for the parent's phone number. Your child would not be able to loose this, as with a card. Remind young ones of what to do if they get separated from you, who they can trust and about safety in numbers. Also, this is a good time to remind them of stranger-danger that you have, most likely, gone over many times. To further insure the safety of your children, if two parents are traveling with more than one child, before you leave home choose teams, with each parent as a team captain. Have each parent be responsible for their team. Divide the responsibility up. Making it a game gets the trip off to a fun start.

Young, First-Time Fliers

Prepare children who are first-time fliers for what it is like going through the security checkpoint at the airport. Everyone, including the children, should wear shoes that are easy to take on and off. Removing your shoes is just one of the strict safety measures in place at airports for all passengers, who are required to go through a security check-point. Role play with your child the way in which travelers are required to go through the metal checkpoint door frame, the way it may "buzz," and why, how the wand is used to wave over the travelers body, and a "touching" body check done by the security agents. Try to put your child at ease. Although much of the extra security check actions may not happen, you would want to prepare your child just in case it does. TSA officers will work with parents to resolve any alarms at the checkpoint. TSA has modified screening procedures for children 12 and under that reduces the likelihood of a pat-down. Taking the fear out of traveling for your child will make for a traveling experience filled with fun from beginning to end. Get all the current facts of going through the security checkpoint beforehand, in order to share them with your child. Once you board the plane, secure your child’s seat-belt and prepare to help him have an enjoyable flight. Make it fun!

Where's the Entertainment?

There may be in-flight entertainment, but don't rely on it alone. Many larger airlines have in-flight entertainment such as films, music, and even children's channels. However, there are times when it might be broken or not appropriate for your child’s age group. Also, wearing the headphones might irritate your child, in some way, because they are sized for adults. Best bet, bring your own assortment of entertaining activities for your child. Here are some suggestions:

1.   Portable video game consoles.
2. Tablet, or computer to play music, movies, or audio books.
3. Coloring books, activity books, blank drawing paper. Don’t forget the pencils and crayons!
4.   Stickers - These are useful for making designs on blank pages while drawing.
5.   Magnetic games - Buy the travel-size game kits.

6.   Books to read together.
7.   Flash-cards: ABCs, Math, Reading, Shapes.
8.   Kid's puzzle books - Sudoku, crosswords, find-a-word, mad-libs, jokes, etc. (One of my favorites.)
9. Print free from internet - games to play on paper, such as tic-tac-toe, mazes or dot-to-dots. There are many print-outs available on kids' websites.
10. A favorite stuffed animal or doll.

Don’t forget to bring along some snacks in your carry-on bag. Choose foods that are not packed with sugar and won’t melt or crumble apart and make a mess. Licorice, apples, pretzels, cereal, and granola bars are good options. Try preparing these snacks in unique ways to keep it fun. Young kids will love cereal, like Cheerios or Fruit Loops, strung onto yarn to form an edible necklace. You can also make up your own bags of trail mix with your child’s favorite combo'.

Reward your child for good behavior on the plane. Surprise and reward your child for his patience on long journeys. Wrap up a new toy and present him with it after he has proven that he has been well-behaved enough. Nothing big or expensive; check the dollar store in your area. He will feel that you appreciate his cooperation.

To make entertainment more educational, contact the tourism board or local chamber of commerce of your destination before leaving for your trip. Request travel brochures and tourist information. Arrange these in a folder for ease of viewing during the flight. Let the kids flip through the fliers and magazines while in flight to further prepare them and boost their enthusiasm. This let's the kids become vacation planners right along with you, when age appropriate.

A small challenge of flying with children is cabin pressure. Rapid changes in cabin pressure can make little ears pop, so keep drinks, baby bottle, or pacifiers available for take-offs and landings (sucking helps reduce ear sensitivity). If your child is old enough to chew gum, try that. Chewing gum to combat the uncomfortable, sometimes painful feeling of cabin pressure is something that helps me.

Traveling by air presents other unique challenges for parents with young children. Kids under age two are not required by law to be restrained on airplanes, so it's up to every parent to decide how to travel. If you decide to ride with baby on your lap, consider a flight vest that secures your child to your lap belt. These vests are not designed for use during takeoff and landing, but for cruising, when turbulence most often occurs. If your child's small size does not allow the seat belt to fit properly, you can use a child safety harness to secure your child in the seat. *Check with the airline to be sure of what harnesses are allowed. The Federal Aviation Administration recommends that small children be seated in a car seat. However, this is not the law as in traveling in a car. The only way to guarantee that your child can use a car seat is to purchase a ticket. Some airlines offer discounted fares for kids under two. If that isn't a possibility, select a non-peak flight time that's more likely to have empty seats.

*Car seats manufactured in the United States after February 26, 1985 must be US FMVSS #213 or FAA certified, with a red sticker labeled, “This restraint is certified for us in Motor Vehicles and Aircraft,” and “This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards.” This includes booster seats and any types of harnesses.

For parents with infants, each time that you take a trip on an airplane, and for various airlines that you use, make a call to customer service to verify if a carry-on bag with diaper and feeding needs will be counted as an extra bag. Baby's needs may have to be incorporated into your carry-on, if needed.

Finally, always ask questions when in doubt. You’re ready for take off! Enjoy your flight!

*See Travel Tips for the Well-Traveled Family, Parts 1, 2, 3, and 4 on our blog. Use our search engine for help.