BABY CARE

Women's World- Needs of Women: 10 WAYS TO LIVE LIFE LIKE A TODDLER

2016-02-10T23:26:00.001-08:00

Women's World- Needs of Women: 10 WAYS TO LIVE LIFE LIKE A TODDLER: We can break it down to TEN things that every toddler does. And if we as adults remember these 10 ways to live – maybe our lives would be ...

Women's World- Needs of Women: How to Easily Manage Your Weight

2016-02-10T23:25:00.001-08:00

Women's World- Needs of Women: How to Easily Manage Your Weight: So many of us are on a diet roller-coaster and always want to lose some extra pounds. Just saying the word ‘diet’ conjures feelings of ...

Women's World- Needs of Women: 7 Ways to a Healthy and Happy Relationship

2016-02-10T23:24:00.003-08:00

Women's World- Needs of Women: 7 Ways to a Healthy and Happy Relationship: Here's just a little primer of 7 signs of a healthy relationship. 1. Mutual Respect If you don't have this - well, it's...

Women's World- Needs of Women: Best Homemade Face Masks For Oily Skin

2016-02-10T23:24:00.001-08:00

Women's World- Needs of Women: Best Homemade Face Masks For Oily Skin: Oily skin requires utmost attention. Oily and greasy skin easily catch dirt and scums from its surroundings. Moreover it’s prone to acne ...

BABY CARE: What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding?

2016-01-08T20:30:00.003-08:00

BABY CARE: What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding?: A: In general, there are only two foods breastfeeding women should avoid or consume in very small amounts: alcohol and fish. Alco...

BABY CARE: Bathing your baby safely

2016-01-08T20:30:00.001-08:00

BABY CARE: Bathing your baby safely: Your baby may love splashing about in the water, but there are some important rules to follow to make bathtime safe as well as fun. The f...

BABY CARE: Bathing your baby safely

2016-01-08T20:29:00.001-08:00

BABY CARE: Bathing your baby safely: Your baby may love splashing about in the water, but there are some important rules to follow to make bathtime safe as well as fun. The f...

BABY CARE: Feeding Your New Born

2015-12-31T20:43:00.001-08:00

BABY CARE: Feeding Your New Born: How you feed your newborn is the first nutrition decision you will make for your child. These guidelines on breastfeeding and bottle feedin...

Feeding Your New Born

2015-12-31T20:42:00.001-08:00

How you feed your newborn is the first nutrition decision you will make for your child. These guidelines on breastfeeding and bottle feeding can help you make the decision that's right for you and your baby.

Breast or Bottle?

Medical experts say breastfeeding is best for newborns. Specifically, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for about the first 6 months. Following the introduction of solid foods, breastfeeding should continue through the first year of life and even beyond, if desired.

But breastfeeding might not be possible or preferable for all new moms. Deciding to breastfeed or bottle feed a baby is usually based on the mother's comfort level with breastfeeding as well as her lifestyle. In some cases, breastfeeding may not be recommended for a mom and her baby. If you have any questions about whether to breastfeed or formula feed, talk to your pediatrician.

Remember, your baby's nutritional and emotional needs will be met whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed

About Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding your newborn has many advantages. Perhaps most important, breast milk is the perfect food for a human baby's digestive system. It has the nutrients that a newborn needs, and all of its components — lactose, protein (whey and casein), and fat — are easily digested. Commercial formulas try to imitate breast milk, and come close, but cannot match its exact composition.

Also, breast milk contains antibodies that help protect babies from a wide variety of infectious illnesses, including diarrhea and respiratory infections. Studies suggest that breastfed babies are less likely to develop certain medical problems, including diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, and allergies. Breastfeeding also may decrease the chances that a child will become overweight or obese.

Breastfeeding is great for moms, too. It burns calories and helps shrink the uterus, so nursing moms get back in shape quicker. Breastfeeding also may protect mom from breast and ovarian cancer.

Some moms find breastfeeding easier and quicker than formula feeding; it needs no preparation and you don't run out of breast milk in the middle of the night. Also, breastfeeding costs little. Nursing mothers do need to eat more and may want to buy nursing bras and pads, a breast pump, or other equipment. But these expenses are generally less than the cost of formula.

Breastfeeding meets a variety of emotional needs for both moms and babies — the skin-to-skin contact can enhance the emotional connection, and providing complete nourishment can help a new mother feel confident in her ability to care for her newborn.

BABY CARE: Here are few ways to talk to your child about thum...

2015-12-23T23:17:00.001-08:00

BABY CARE: Here are few ways to talk to your child about thum...: Thumb sucking children have developed the habit due to various reasons. It can be stress, comfort, or a defense mechanism but there are...

Here are few ways to talk to your child about thumb sucking:

2015-12-23T23:16:00.000-08:00

Thumb sucking children have developed the habit due to various reasons. It can be stress, comfort, or a defense mechanism but there are ways to stop the habit with a few easy steps. The number one way to help your child is to observe and determine why they are sucking their thumb in the first place. Secondly, talking to your child will help you better understand their need to take part in this habit and give you the opportunity to help them better.

Here are few ways to talk to your child about thumb sucking:

Just Simply Talking � By just approaching the subject in a conversation with your child can help them feel more at ease about the reasons they do it. They may open up to the reason why it comforts them in certain situations. Most children start as babies, so it is a learned habit, one that can be difficult to break. Persistence is key.

Information � By starting a conversation about the effects of thumb sucking, you can broach the topic with the side effects it has such as what it can do to their smile. You could also explain the truth about the germs that will get into their bodies by thumb sucking. This will often deter a child from continuing but be sure not to scare them. Approach the topics gently.

Activities � Keeping a child�s hands busy will stop them from wanting to put their thumb in their mouth because they will be too busy doing the activities. Arts and crafts or just playing ball outside will preoccupy them.

Alternatives � If your child is doing the habit out of a need for comfort, offer them a stuffed animal or a blanket to comfort them instead.

Patience � This habit will not go away overnight and may be extremely difficult to break; however it can be broken. The main thing as a parent of a thumb-sucker is to be patient while trying to break them of this habit.

You have the opportunity to not only break this habit but to help them develop better habits and ways to evoke comfort

Do I still need to breastfeed?

2015-12-23T00:58:00.001-08:00

Yes. Breastmilk or formula will remain your baby's most important source of nutrition until she is a year old.

There is no need to stop breastfeeding because your baby is having her first foods. This is the case even though solid foods will gradually replace some of your baby's milk feeds.

You can carry on breastfeeding for as long as you both wish. Breastmilk provides important nutrients and protein in an easy-to-digest form.

However, once your baby reaches six months, you will need to give her iron-rich foods every day. This is because breastmilk will no longer provide all the iron she needs. Eggs, beans, red meat, dark-green vegetables and cereals all contain iron.

Also, if you do choose to continue breastfeeding the Department of Health recommends that breastfed babies older than six months have a daily supplement of vitamins A, C and D. Giving your baby a supplement guarantees that she gets the vitamins she needs.

The supplement comes in the form of drops. Your health visitor can show you how to give your baby drops.

The amount of milk your baby wants will reduce as she starts to eat more solid foods. You may find that feeds between meals become shorter and eventually stop. You can't measure the amount of breastmilk your baby is taking, so let your baby be the guide. She may want to continue with a breastfeed first thing in the morning and at bedtime.

Be aware that your baby’s appetite can change from day to day, just like yours. You may sometimes find that your baby still wants a breastfeed after a meal.

You can offer other drinks once your baby has started solids. The best choice is always water, although you can offer well-diluted fruit juice with meals if you wish. Try to encourage your baby to drink from a cup with a soft spout, or a free-flowing lidded beaker.

Can baby feel sad?

2015-12-23T00:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, babies can feel sad just as they can feel excited, scared and happy.

In the past, scientists have underestimated what babies were capable of feeling and thinking. In fact, until about 20 years ago, it was even believed that babies couldn’t feel pain! Thanks to modern research, we now know that babies have a much richer internal world than we ever thought.

Your baby will start trying to communicate her feelings as soon as she’s born. For the first few months, she can only express how she feels by moving her body and making sounds, from coos and gurgles to inconsolable crying. That’s why it can sometimes be hard to understand what your baby may be feeling in those first few months.

Over time, you'll start to "tune in" to your baby, by noticing her different cries and the kinds of squirmy movements she makes. When she's sad, she'll probably have a downturned mouth when she cries, and a soft body (compared with the open, shouting mouth and tense body of an angry baby).

Your baby will feel sad for the same reasons that you do – loneliness, discomfort, tiredness and hunger. By paying attention to your baby and getting on to her wavelength, you'll be able to make educated guesses as to what she may be feeling.

Try soothing your baby when she’s sad or distressed by talking softly to her. For example, “Oh dear, you’re looking a bit sad. Mummy will make it better." The more attention you pay to your baby, the more you'll get to know her. She'll feel a lot more comforted and reassured if she senses that she's being looked after by someone who is attuned to her needs.

Try not to worry if your baby does seem sad, and is crying a lot or turning away from you. It's perfectly normal, and doesn't mean that you've done anything wrong. With your help, she certainly won't be sad for long!

Although it's natural to want to protect your baby from all sadness, it's actually beneficial for her to learn how to cope with it, with your help of course! Although this is more of a job for the toddler stage, it starts from day one.

When you think you see signs of sadness in your baby, comfort her with cuddles and gentle words. Or check out our article on soothing a crying baby, which has lots of great tips and tricks.

Try not to pay attention to the old wives' tale that you can "spoil" your baby by cuddling her too much. Physical contact is an important part of bonding with your baby, and will help her to feel safe and loved. Trust your gut instinct and give your little one a cuddle whenever it feels right.

Finally, there may be times when you notice that your baby is lying in her pram or on her mat with a sad look on her face. If she's not crying, whining, or moving around a lot, this probably means that she's just having a moment of contemplation. We all have our serious face on when we're thinking!

Eventually, you'll learn to recognise when your baby wants a bit of comfort, and when to let her just contemplate the world around her.

Your Newborn: 30 Tips for the First 30 Days

2015-11-27T01:49:00.000-08:00

Breastfeeding

It's been six weeks since our daughter, Clementine, was born. She's finally sleeping better and going longer between feedings. She's also becoming more alert when she's awake. My husband and I, on the other hand, feel like we've been hit by a truck. I'm amazed that we've muddled through. Here are tips from seasoned parents and baby experts to make your first month easier.

Hints for Nursing

Babies eat and eat and eat. Although nature has done a pretty good job of providing you and your baby with the right equipment, in the beginning it's almost guaranteed to be harder than you expected. From sore nipples to tough latch-ons, nursing can seem overwhelming.

1. Women who seek help have a higher success rate. "Think of ways to ensure success before you even give birth," suggests Stacey Brosnan, a lactation consultant in New York City. Talk with friends who had a good nursing experience, ask baby's pediatrician for a lactation consultant's number, or attend a La Leche League (nursing support group) meeting (see laleche.org to find one).

2. Use hospital resources. Kira Sexton, a Brooklyn, New York, mom, says, "I learned everything I could about breastfeedingbefore I left the hospital." Ask if there's a nursing class or a lactation consultant on staff. Push the nurse-call button each time you're ready to feed the baby, and ask a nurse to spot you and offer advice.

3. Prepare. At home, you'll want to drop everything to feed the baby the moment she cries for you. But Heather O'Donnell, a mom in New York City, suggests taking care of yourself first. "Get a glass of water and a book or magazine to read." And, because breastfeeding can take a while, she says, "pee first!"

4. Try a warm compress if your breasts are engorged or you have blocked ducts. A heating pad or a warm, wet washcloth works, but a flax pillow (often sold with natural beauty products) is even better. "Heat it in the microwave, and conform it to your breast," says Laura Kriska, a mom in Brooklyn, New York.

5. Heat helps the milk flow, but if your breasts are sore after nursing, try a cold pack. Amy Hooker, a San Diego mom, says, "A bag of frozen peas worked really well for me."

6. If you want baby to eventually take a bottle, introduce it after breastfeeding is established but before the 3-month mark. Many experts say 6 to 8 weeks is good, but "we started each of our kids on one bottle a day at 3 weeks," says Jill Sizemore, a mom in Pendleton, Indiana.

Sleeping

If your infant isn't eating, he's probably sleeping. Newborns log as many as 16 hours of sleep a day but only in short bursts. The result: You'll feel on constant alert and more exhausted than you ever thought possible. Even the best of us can come to resent the severe sleep deprivation.

7. Stop obsessing about being tired. There's only one goal right now: Care for your baby. "You're not going to get a full night's sleep, so you can either be tired and angry or just tired," says Vicki Lansky, author of Getting Your Child to Sleep...and Back to Sleep (Book Peddlers). "Just tired is easier."

8. Take shifts. One night it's Mom's turn to rock the cranky baby, the next it's Dad's turn. Amy Reichardt and her husband, Richard, parents in Denver, worked out a system for the weekends, when Richard was off from work. "I'd be up with the baby at night but got to sleep in. Richard did all the morning care, then got to nap later."

9. The old adage "Sleep when your baby sleeps" really is the best advice. "Take naps together and go to bed early," says Sarah Clark, a mom in Washington, D.C.

10. What if your infant has trouble sleeping? Do whatever it takes: Nurse or rock baby to sleep; let your newborn fall asleep on your chest or in the car seat. "Don't worry about bad habits yet. It's about survival -- yours!" says Jean Farnham, a Los Angeles mom.

Soothing

It's often hard to decipher exactly what baby wants in the first murky weeks. You'll learn, of course, by trial and error.

11. "The key to soothing fussy infants is to mimic the womb. Swaddling, shushing, and swinging, as well as allowing babies to suck and holding them on their sides, may trigger a calming reflex," says Harvey Karp, MD, creator of The Happiest Baby on the Block books, videos, and DVDs.

12. Play tunes. Forget the dubious theory that music makes a baby smarter, and concentrate on the fact that it's likely to calm him. "The Baby Einstein tapes saved us," says Kim Rich, a mom in Anchorage, Alaska.

13. Warm things up. Alexandra Komisaruk, a mom in Los Angeles, found that diaper changes triggered a meltdown. "I made warm wipes using paper towels and a pumpable thermos of warm water," she says. You can also buy an electric wipe warmer for a sensitive baby.

14. You'll need other tricks, too. "Doing deep knee bends and lunges while holding my daughter calmed her down," says Emily Earle, a mom in Brooklyn, New York. "And the upside was, I got my legs back in shape!"

15. Soak to soothe. If all else fails -- and baby's umbilical cord stub has fallen off -- try a warm bath together. "You'll relax, too, and a relaxed mommy can calm a baby," says Emily Franklin, a Boston mom.

Getting Dad Involved

Your husband, who helped you through your pregnancy, may seem at a loss now that baby's here. It's up to you, Mom, to hand the baby over and let Dad figure things out, just like you're doing.

16. Let him be. Many first-time dads hesitate to get involved for fear of doing something wrong and incurring the wrath of Mom. "Moms need to allow their husbands to make mistakes without criticizing them," says Armin Brott, author of The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the First Year (Abbeville Press).

17. Ask Dad to take time off from work -- after all the relatives leave. That's what Thad Calabrese, of Brooklyn, New York, did. "There was more for me to do, and I got some alone time with my son."

18. Divvy up duties. Mark DiStefano, a dad in Los Angeles, took over the cleaning and grocery shopping. "I also took Ben for a bit each afternoon so my wife could have a little time to herself."

19. Remember that Dad wants to do some fun stuff, too. "I used to take my shirt off and put the baby on my chest while we napped," say Bob Vonnegut, a dad in Islamorada, Florida. "I loved the rhythm of our hearts beating together."

Staying Sane

No matter how excited you are to be a mommy, the constant care an infant demands can drain you. Find ways to take care of yourself by lowering your expectations and stealing short breaks.

20. First, ignore unwanted or confusing advice. "In the end, you're the parents, so you decide what's best," says Julie Balis, a mom in Frankfort, Illinois.

21. "Forget about housework for the first couple of months," says Alison Mackonochie, author of 100 Tips for a Happy Baby(Barron's). "Concentrate on getting to know your baby. If anyone has anything to say about the dust piling up or the unwashed dishes, smile and hand them a duster or the dish detergent!"

22. Accept help from anyone who is nice -- or naive -- enough to offer. "If a neighbor wants to hold the baby while you shower, say yes!" says Jeanne Anzalone, a mom in Croton-on-Hudson, New York.

23. Got lots of people who want to help but don't know how? "Don't be afraid to tell people exactly what you need," says Abby Moskowitz, a Brooklyn mom. It's one of the few times in your life when you'll be able to order everyone around!

24. But don't give other people the small jobs. "Changing a diaper takes two minutes. You'll need others to do time-consuming work like cooking, sweeping floors, and buying diapers," says Catherine Park, a Cleveland mom.

25. Reconnect. To keep yourself from feeling detached from the world, Jacqueline Kelly, a mom in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, suggests: "Get outside on your own, even for five minutes."

Out and About with Baby

26. Enlist backup. Make your first journey to a big, public place with a veteran mom. "Having my sister with me for support kept me from becoming flustered the first time I went shopping with my newborn," says Suzanne Zook, a mom in Denver.

27. If you're on your own, "stick to places likely to welcome a baby, such as story hour at a library or bookstore," suggests Christin Gauss, a mom in Fishers, Indiana.

28. "Keep your diaper bag packed," says Fran Bowen, a mom in Brooklyn. There's nothing worse than finally getting the baby ready, only to find that you're not.

29. Stash a spare. Holland Brown, a mom in Long Beach, California, always keeps a change of adult clothes in her diaper bag. "You don't want to get stuck walking around with an adorable baby but mustard-colored poop all over you."

30. Finally, embrace the chaos. "Keep your plans simple and be prepared to abandon them at any time," says Margi Weeks, a mom in Tarrytown, New York.

If nothing else, remember that everyone makes it through, and so will you. Soon enough you'll be rewarded with your baby's first smile, and that will help make up for all the initial craziness.

Heather Swain is a mother and writer in Brooklyn, New York. Her novel is Luscious Lemon (Downtown Press).

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding?

2015-11-27T01:42:00.000-08:00

A: In general, there are only two foods breastfeeding women should avoid or consume in very small amounts: alcohol and fish. Alcohol can be passed from mom to baby in breast milk and affect neurologic development. One drink or less per day is generally accepted as being "safe." Fish (including canned tuna) should be avoided or eaten in moderation, no more than 2 servings a week. Fish contain mercury that can also negatively affect the baby's neurologic development.

Plus, any foods that someone in the family has an allergy to should be avoided; the most common ones are eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, corn, and milk. Certain foods may also cause irritation, discomfort, gas, or intestinal irritation in babies and they should be avoided if your baby shows negative reactions to them: caffeine (coffee, tea, and chocolate), citrus fruits, spicy peppers, broccoli, and garlic. Some herbs, such as peppermint and parsley, can decrease milk supply if ocnsumed in large amounts. (But other supplements, like Fen-U-Greek, can increase your milk supply.)

Your baby will let you know if something is disagreeing with his system. One thing to keep in mind: it can take up to 14 days of cutting a food group completely out of your diet before it is no longer excreted into the breast milk, so don't decide after only 24 hours if a change is making a difference in your child.

Answered by Dr. Marra Francis

Bathing your baby safely

2015-11-24T22:30:00.001-08:00

Your baby may love splashing about in the water, but there are some important rules to follow to make bathtime safe as well as fun. The first and most important rule is never leave your baby alone in the bath.

Read on for more tips on how to keep your baby clean and out of harm's way.

What's the right water temperature for my baby's bath?

Make sure the bath water is comfortably warm, but not hot, before putting your baby in. Put cold water in the bath first, and then add the hot water. Mix the water well to make sure there aren't any hot spots. This will reduce the risk of scalding your baby. Never put your baby in the bath when the water is still running. The water temperature can change quickly.

You can buy a thermometer to check the temperature of the bath water. Some thermometers are also a fun bath toy or a piece of bath equipment, such as a mat. Most thermometers indicate an ideal temperature of 37 degrees C to 38 degrees C, which is around body temperature. If you're not using a thermometer, a quick way to check is to use your elbow rather than your hand to gauge the temperature. The water should feel neither hot nor cold.

If you have separate hot and cold taps on your bath, you could fit a mixing valve to the hot tap. This helps to control the water temperature so it won't get too hot as it comes out of the tap. A child can get second-degree or third-degree burns within just seconds of being in water that's too hot.

If you're using the family bath to bathe your baby, cover the taps with an inflatable safety cover or similar. Try to teach your baby not to touch the taps as she grows into toddlerhood. Even if she can't turn them on now, she'll soon be strong enough, and she could scald herself.

Even though her bath may be warm, your baby can quickly lose body heat once you take her out of the water, so keep the room warm. When you lift your baby out of the bath, wrap her in a hooded towel and pat her dry before putting her nappy on. Then wrap your baby in a dry towel or blanket again, and give her a cuddle for about 10 minutes to keep her warm, before dressing her.

How deep should the water be?

For newborns and babies up to six months old, run the water to about 13cm (5in) deep. Or just make sure there's enough water so that your baby settles in the water with her shoulders well covered.

Never fill the bath more than waist-high (in a sitting position) for older babies and children. And never put your baby into a bath when the water is still running. The depth of the water could quickly rise too high.

How can I safely support my baby in the water?

As you lower your baby into the bath, hold her firmly under her bottom with one hand. Place your other arm under the back of her neck and her shoulders. Once your baby is in the bath and settled, you can use the hand that was supporting her bottom to wash and swish the water around. Keep a firm hold on your baby with your other hand and support her head above the water.

You may decide to use a bath support that frees your hands for washing your baby. If your baby can't sit up yet, a bath cradle will support her in the water. If she's old enough to sit up, you can use a bath seat.

Always stay with your baby while she's in the bath. Even if one of your older children is in the bath with her or you are using a baby bath, bath support, or bath seat, it's important to stay and hold or watch your baby.

Babies can drown in less than 3cm of water and it can take just seconds for a baby to slip or topple into the water and be helpless. Babies don't struggle or make a noise when they get into difficulties in water, so you may not realise that anything has happened until it's too late.

Fortunately, most parents keep their babies safe at bathtime. In the UK, about one baby every other year drowns in the bath. However, other babies have been left with serious injuries after being left alone in a baby bath support.

If you're using your big bath, put a rubber bathmat on the bottom of the bath. As your baby grows, teach her to stay sitting down in the bath at all times to discourage her from standing up, slipping, or losing her balance. Get into the habit of always emptying the bath as soon as bathtime is over.

How often can I bath my baby?

It's up to you. Bathtime can be a fun and relaxing ritual for you and your baby. But if you don't want to give your baby a bath every day, it's fine to bathe her two or three times a week during the first month or so.

Provided you top and tail, and wash off any obvious dirt on non-bath days, your baby will be clean enough.

When your baby's a couple of months old, you may want to start making a bath part of her bedtime routine. You don't need to wash her hair every day. Her hair produces very little oil, so once or twice a week is fine.

Choose a mild, liquid baby cleanser. Using a mild cleanser that's specially designed for babies will help to maintain your baby's natural skin barrier.

If your baby's skin is dry or irritated, you could add a little bath emollient to the water. Remember, using an emollient can make your baby's skin slippery, so keep a gentle but secure grip of your baby while she's in the water.

Is it safe to share a bath with my baby?

It's safe to have a bath with your baby once she is about two months old, and you're confident about handling her. You'll need someone there to hand your baby to you, and take her from you while you get out of the bath.

Alternatively, your partner may like to get in the bath, while you help. There's nothing like skin-to-skin contact for strengthening attachment between dad and baby.

Whichever one of you is getting in the bath with your baby, you should shower or wash first. Then simply prepare the bathroom and bath in the same way as if you were just bathing your baby.

Can I nip out of the bathroom just for a few seconds?

No. Never leave your baby unattended in the bath. (Yes, it's so important we're saying it again.)

Before you start, have everything you need for your baby's bath ready. Make sure towels, toiletries, a clean nappy, vest and sleep suit are all within reach. When your baby is a newborn, it's a good idea to have extra supplies, because babies can wee and, more particularly, poo unexpectedly - and explosively!

If someone knocks at the door or the phone rings and you feel you must answer it, scoop your baby up in a towel and take her with you.

10 Things to Know About Newborns

2011-05-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Baby may be, well, a little funny-looking

His head may be smooshed from his journey through the birth canal, and he might be sporting a "bodysuit" of fine hair called lanugo. He could also be puffy-faced and have eyes that are often shut (and a little gooey). After all, he just spent nine months in the womb. But pretty soon, he'll resemble that beautiful baby you imagined

Don't expect rewards -- smiles or coos -- until about the 6-week mark.

Up until then, you're working for a boss who only complains! To get through the exhaustion and

emotional upheaval, keep this in mind: your efforts aren't lost on baby in those early days. "He feels comforted by his father or mother, he feels attachment, he likes to be held," says Los Angeles-based pediatrician Christopher Tolcher, MD.

Give baby sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off.

If it's kept dry, it falls off faster -- usually within two weeks. Besides, newborns don't get very dirty! If the cord does get wet, pat it dry. And if the stump bleeds a little when the cord falls off, that's okay, too, as Alyson Bracken, of West Roxbury, Massachusetts, learned. "It scared me at first," she says, but then she found out that, as with a scab, mild bleeding was normal.

The soft spot can handle some handling

I was terrified of the soft spot," admits April Hardwick, of New York City, referring to the opening in the skull, also called the fontanel, which allows baby to maneuver out of the birth canal. "Gemma had a full head of hair at birth, and I was initially afraid to comb over the soft spot," Hardwick says. But there was no need to worry: "It's okay to touch the soft spot and baby's hair near it," says Tanya Remer Altmann, MD, pediatrician and author of Mommy Calls. The spot may pulsate because it's directly over blood vessels covering the brain.

She'll let you know if she's getting enough food.

Baby needs to eat every two to three hours -- but if you're nursing, it's tough to know how much milk she's getting. "The baby's weight is the best indicator in the early days," says Dr. Tolcher. Your pediatrician will check it within a few days of discharge. A newborn loses 5 to 8 percent of her birthweight within the first week but should gain it back by the second. Diaper-counting can also act as a gauge: her schedule those first five days is haphazard, but after that, you'll see five to six wet diapers a day, and at least one or two stools

Dry skin is the norm for newborns.

Initially, he may be soft and silky, but that changes. "If you soaked yourself in liquid for nine months and then hit the air, you'd be dry too!" says Laura Jana, MD, pediatrician and coauthor of Heading Home With Your Newborn. You don't have to do anything about dry skin (it typically peels and flakes off), but if you're so inclined, reach for a hypoallergenic baby lotion that is fragrance-free. Little pink bumps, diaper rashes, and even baby acne may also make an appearance. "Acne tends to last for a few months," Dr. Jana says. "So get those cute newborn pics before one month

You don't have to hole up at home.

Lead a normal life, but use common sense when you go out in public," Dr. Tolcher says. Keep baby out of the sun, and avoid sick people (no toddler birthday parties!) and crowded enclosed spaces (such as the mall during the holidays). "Teach older siblings to touch baby's feet instead of her hands and face, which will help prevent the spread of infection," he adds. And make your older child the hygiene police, says Dr. Jana. He'll love telling guests, "Don't touch the baby without washing your hands."

Babies cry a lot -- that's how they communicate!

Their piercing wails will let you know they're hungry, cold, have a dirty diaper, or want to be held. These early "conversations" can be frustrating, but rest assured, you'll get a better handle on what she needs in time. Laurie May, of Boardman, Ohio, and her husband quickly learned to read their daughter's hunger signal. When they were brand-new parents, they set an alarm to go off every two hours to wake Carter for a feeding. "We did not need the alarm!" she says. "We love to laugh at that one now."

Newborn babies also sleep a lot -- but not for long stretches.

Those first three months are a free-for-all. Baby needs to eat every two to three hours, so you're not getting much sleep either. "It does get better," assures Dr. Altmann. "Most infants can sleep for six to eight hours by 3 months of age." In the meantime, try to get baby on a day and night schedule: during the day, don't let him snooze more than three hours without waking him to feed; at night let him sleep as long as he wants once he's regained the weight he lost at birth

The newborn stage is fleeting

Stressed, tired, and lonely? Yes, those early days are hard. But they'll soon be behind you. Barbara Evans, of New York City, says, "I wish I'd known how quickly the time goes." The mom to Luella, 8 months, says, "I didn't take enough pictures or keep notes!" Rabeea Baloch, of Sugarland, Texas, shares some veteran-mom experience: "With my first, I stressed over every single thing, from changing diapers to whether baby was crying more than usual. With my second, I just enjoyed holding her, smelling her, kissing her, and loving the time together."

Baby Furniture

2011-04-14T22:57:00.000-07:00

Baby furniture is very necessary for babies. This is not advisable that parents prefer to make their child sleep with them on same bed. Parents can select baby furniture that is affordable, high quality and safe. Baby furniture includes cribs, bedding, toddler beds, child rocking chair, cot, child rocking horses, cradles, child desks, toy storage, child closet organizers, child storage and other accessories which are specially designed for infants and children.

Cot is baby furniture which provides security and safety for an infant because it has railings on all sides. Cots are available in various designs and sizes. Infants may enjoy playing with plastic toys and bells which are hanging on the railing.

Closet is also useful baby furniture that keeps all the shoes, clothes and nappies in different draws. There are lots of baby chairs that are ready to eat at the dining table; these are available in different designs, shapes and sizes.

Nowadays, baby furniture can purchase at a discounted rate and good schemes such as shifted from a cot to a bed. These baby furniture can be stored away for the next arrival, in case of parents plan another baby.

Important tips for selection of baby furniture:

Parents should go for funny designs and vibrant colors.

Always select furniture which can be used even the child grows older.

It should be adjustable and attractive.

Parents should go for child rocking chairs with themes such as Princess, Angel and Sports.

Always select baby furniture with safety features.

Information about Baby's Diet

2011-02-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

There are so many questions that arise in a mother's mind regarding her baby. One of the most confusing ones would be regarding feeding. How can you tell whether your baby is hungry and needs feeding or is crying for some other reason? When do you stop feeding? How many times in a day do you need to feed? Is breastfeeding better than formula milk?

Well, don't worry! No mother is an expert and no one expects you to be one. Each baby is unique and has different needs when it comes to their feed and the quantity they require to satisfy their hunger pangs. A mother, after some experience will learn to sense her baby's needs and act on them. Meanwhile, here is some information to get you going.

Breastfeeding is considered the best for a new born baby as the mothers' milk has antibodies which protect the baby and gives them increased resistance and immunity against colds and allergies in the later days to come. It has been observed that children who are breast-fed are stronger, healthier and more intelligent than ones who have not received any. Breast milk has all the essential nutrients required for a baby and should be given for at least six months. While breastfeeding, a mother should be careful about her diet as it affects the baby directly. If for some reason, a mother is unable to breast feed, then formula milk can be given.

Always feed your baby on demand and not on a schedule that has been laid out by anyone. On an average, a baby requires up to eight feeds in a day. But there is no need to worry if your baby is taking less or more than this amount. If your baby is gaining weight proportionately, it means that the food requirements are being met. You need to sense when your baby is full by recognizing when they pull away. Likewise when they are hungry, they will definitely show some signs of discomfort which given time, you will learn to associate with hunger. If you are bottle-feeding your baby, ensure that the bottles are always sterilized so as to avoid any kind of infection. The milk should also be warm and not hot. It is essential to burp the baby after every feed and it is normal for them to bring out some of the milk after feeding is over.

The process of starting babies on solid food is called as weaning. After four to six months, babies can be given carbohydrates like mashed bananas to start with. When the baby completes ten months, they can be given other fruits, vegetables and meats as well. It is good to introduce food items one at a time so as to notice any reactions or allergies to the same. If any reaction occurs, it is advisable to contact your doctor immediately as it should not be ignored.

Feeding is the time when mothers can bond best with their babies. It is a highly satisfying experience and should be cherished. So enjoy this time together and don't think of it as a hassle.

Baby Clothes and Baby Clothing

2011-02-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

Baby Clothes is too general a phrase. It does nothing to explain to parents about the variety in brand, cost and sizes in clothing that is available to their child.

Buying clothes for a baby can be just as difficult as buying them for an adult. The variety is astounding. When you are searching for baby clothes one never thinks they will have to make decisions about what type of brand, cost, size they are looking for. One never thinks to ask themselves, "Am I looking for clothing for everyday or for a special occasion? Yet, the fact is these are important things that one must think about before going shopping for baby clothes. I bet it would surprise many people to know that buying baby clothes for a child of six months is not the same as buying them for a newborn child. To help you sort through all the things you should think about when buying baby clothes for a specific age keep reading this article.

Baby Clothes Newborn to Three months

When buying clothes for a newborn baby or one that is about three months old, it is not just about style but about safety as well. When looking over clothing see if they have any buttons, ribbons, snaps on them that can come loose in a baby's mouth and choke them. Keep in mind when buying baby clothes that velcro, and zippers in the back is a good thing. Tee's are a good purchase as well as flaming pants and Tra La La French Ribbon Kimono Set. The prices can range from $25.00 to 50.00.

Baby Clothes 6- 9 months

It is a waste of time to spend your money buying a lot of newborn baby clothes because they grow at an astounding rate. When a child enters its 6-9 month you can buy larger amounts of clothing. A good tip is to buy a baby around this age clothes that are a size to big so that they can grow into them. Devi offers hip looking clothes for young boys. Their prices range from $40.00 to $100.00. Next, is Kidcosmic who offers outrageous, bright colored clothes for girls. Their prices range from $20.00 to $25.00. Lastly, Room Seven comes a mix offering of designer clothes. Their price range is from $50.00 to $150.00.

Baby Clothes 12-24 months

At this time in a baby life a number of things are happening. The baby can speak and understand some words, play, throw tantrums, use utensils and probably can undress themselves. When it comes to buying clothes for a child of this age, choose items not just for cuteness but durability. Try to choose clothing that would be easy for a child around this age to undo themselves because frustration breeds tantrums in a child and we would not want that. Dirty Laundry offers tees, and their price ranges from $25.00 to $40.00 dollars. If the price is too high for you, cheaper price tees can still offer what you might be looking for.

Toddlers

This is the age where they have made progress in walking and talking. The world is brand new to them, and they are curious about everything, into everything and very active. They want to do everything themselves, and the word "No" is always on the tip of their tongues. Not to mention, they are being or about to be toilet trained. When thinking of buying clothes for this age group, primarily think of comfort. Think clothes you can buy at your local big chain clothing store, and leave the designer dudes for special occasions.

Remember that buying clothes for a baby at any age does take more work then one might think, but offers infinite pleasure as well.

Measles (RUBEOLA)

2010-07-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. Maximum number of cases occur in children less than 2 years of age. The disease occurs in all seasons but is more common in winter and springs. It is characterized by fever, conjunctivitis, coryza, cough and rash. It is a self-limiting disease unless complication occurs. Serious and fatal complication may occur with this disease.

Spread of Infection
This disease spreads from infected person to normal person by droplet spray (respiratory tract secretions and secretions of nose and throat). An infected person remain contagious, i.e. can spread infection from 4 days before to 6 days after the appearance of rash.

Clinical Manifestations
The incubation period of disease is 10-12 days. The disease starts with low grade to moderate fever, hacking cough, running nose, sneezing, rednesMeasless of eyes and watering from eyes. These symptoms last for 3-5 days.

The rash of measles appears on 4th day and at this times temperature rises abruptly and often reaches 40-40.50C (104-1050F). The rash starts behind the ears, along the hairline, on the upper lateral part of neck and on posterior part of the cheeks. In next 2-3 days rash spreads to back, abdomen, arms, thigh and finally reaches the feet. As this rash reaches the feet it starts fading from the face and then proceeds downwards in the same sequence in which it appeared. At this stage other symptoms also subside rapidly and patient who was looking desperately ill appears essentially well.

Loss of apetite and malaise are seen in patients, lymph nodes are also enlarged. Sometimes measle becomes haemorrhagic (Black measles) and bleeding may occur from mouth, nose and bavel.

Complications of measles
Respiratory tract complication of measles are most frequent. Pneumania may occurs because of measles virus itself or due to secondarily invading bacteria. Primary tuberculosis may flare up fallowing measles.

Otitis media (ear infection) is also commonly seen in children following measles infection.

Digestive system - diarrhaea, dysentry and appendicitis may occur following measles infection.

Malnutition - An attack of measles predisposes children to malnutrition. Measles has a higher rate of complication in already malnourished children.

Neurological complications - Encephalitis may occur, either in the early stage or in late stages. One third of the patiens may die and another one third may be left with neurological deficits.

Treatment
Treatment is mainly supportive and symptomatic. Fever is controlled by paracetamol and hydrotherapy. Cough should not be suppressed and dry irritating cough may be helped by humidification of the room. Adequate amount of fluid should be given. A good nourishing diet should be given. Vitamin A should be given to children as it reduces the severity of the disease. In case of complication the doctor should be consulted

Prevention
Active immunization with measles vaccine - In developing countries measles vaccine is given at 9 months of age and in developed countries it is given at 15 months of age. Immunization with measles vaccine with in 72 nos. of exposure to a measles case may modify the illness and provide protection in certain cases hence in school based outbreaks it should be considered.

Contraindication to Measles Vaccine - Measles vaccine is not recommended for Pregnant women, children with untreated tuber leukemia and these reclining immunodeficient drugs. In case these children are expired to measles, measles immunologist (Human) should be given.

Children with AIDS - Children with AIDS should receive measles vaccine as mortality due to measles is high in this group and vaccine is well to treated. In case these children are exposed they should be given gamma globulin in double dose.

Passive Immunization
Measles can be prevented by using gamma globulin with in 5 days after exposure to measles case.

Breast Feeding

2010-07-27T04:26:00.000-07:00

Breast feeding practice is followed everywhere in India, except among higher socio- economic groups, who tend to look for alternatives to breast-feeding. Ignorance of the advantages of breast-feeding and the proper method often leads to discontinuation in most cases.

Basic Facts:

The ability of the breasts to produce milk diminishes soon after childbirth, without the stimulation of breast-feeding.
The immunity factors in breast milk can help the body fight off infections.
Breast milk contains vitamins, minerals and enzymes, which aid the baby’s digestion.
Breast and formula feeding can be used together.

Advantages of breast-feeding.

It is the simplest way to feed the baby.
It increases the period of lactation amenonhoes after childbirth.
Breast milk also contains infection-fighting anti-bodies from the mother.
Breast feeding in the initial 4- months of the baby’s life reduces the chances of infection and increases the immunity of the baby.
The amino acids in breast milk, the building blocks of proteins, are well balanced for the baby. These proteins best aid the baby’s intestinal tract.
The emotional bonding between the baby and mother is strengthened & gives a feeling of satisfaction and achievement to the mother.
It is much cheaper than artificial feeding.

The baby should be put to the breast as soon as possible after birth. The initial yellowish and thick fluid (colostrum) is rich in proteins and protective antibodies. The practice of giving ghutti should be discouraged, because the nourishment of the baby is delayed, increasing chances of infection and delaying the stimulation for milk production.

Some important points:

The mother should sit in a comfortable position, hold the baby in her arms and offer the baby her whole breast & not just the nipple.
The baby should be fed from a different breast each time so that both breasts produce the maximum amount of milk.
The baby should be fed, whenever she is hungry. Before offering the second breast to the baby, it should be ensured that the baby sucks the fat rich hind milk from the first breast.
A daily bath is sufficient to keep the breasts clean.
Frequent cleaning with soap removes the natural oils from the breasts, predisposing the nipples to develop fissures.
Burping the baby after every feed by holding her against the shoulder is advisable.
A mother who is feeding her baby should eat healthy foods to keep up her strength & feed the baby letter.
At times the breasts may feel hot, heavy and hard, due to accumulation of milk.
The mother should be encouraged to let the baby continue to suck for as long as possible.
If still enough milk is not removed, the milk should be squeezed out in a clear (preferably) boiled cup using the thumb and the finger.
A warm compress on the breast or a warm bath is also helpful.
It the baby is fed frequently both during the day and night this condition (engorgement of breast) is uncommon.
If nipples are cracked and painful, the mother is advised to leave a drop of hind milk on, the nipple after feeding as this helps in healing. Malai can also be can applied.

Baby Clothes

2010-07-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

There are many varieties of baby clothes. People will have to look for things that they like and fit to their purse, due to limited budget. Children dislike their clothes being changed often.

People should select the clothes that are easy to put on and change or remove. Choose only those clothes that have a wide neck and stretch. Parents should avoid tight fitting clothes for their children. Nappies that are open around the crotch are easier.

Cotton is the best natural fibre. It is soft and comfortable on the skin. People should use cotton to make baby clothes.

Baby clothes that do not need ironing and have not rough stitching are best. People may not buy too much clothes because babies grow out quickly. People may need the following for a newborn baby:

Minimum two nightgowns, they are easy to put on and take off and more comfortable.

Three pairs of socks.

At least three cardigans

Light jacket and sunhat during summer

Snow suit and warm hat during winter

Four sleeveless vest with poppers to prevent riding up.

Shopping for babies clothes and babies gifts has something for everyone. Babies’ clothes including sweatshirts, jerseys, various types of T-shirt and hoodies are available according to sizes. Babies’ clothes shop contains baby and toddler T-shirts, creepers, baby bibs, matching pillow and teddy bears.

There are various designs and pictures available on the babies clothing. People can match and mix them to create unique gift sets for children. Most of the pictures and designs come from animated fairy tales and stories, therefore babies can wear Sweatshirts and T-shirts while watching fun babies’s stories.

Parents can find various baby clothes and unique children’s clothing in many special shop sections. Parents can select babies clothing that says “I Love My Family” and “I Love My Kids”.

People can select babies clothing that have written alphabet “A, B, C…” this type of clothes to make learning fun. There are many alphabets such as animals’ alphabet and many alphabets that can teach the babies.

Tips for Caring for a Newborn

2010-06-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

Taking care of a newborn baby can be an overwhelming experience for any mom. The tasks involved in baby care – from feeding to diapering to getting your baby to sleep – can be both an emotional and stressful time. However, following some simple tips can help you and provide you with what you know about how to take care of your newborn.

Baby Care Tips

The most important thing to remember is that even if you’re a first time mom, you should always trust your instincts when it comes to taking care of your infant. If you are in doubt about something, whether it be your child’s sleep patterns or how often you should feed your baby, do not hesitate to contact your health care provider.

While it may not seem like it at first, know that eventually you will be able to establish a normal routine with your baby. Feeding and sleep time will take place at more or less set times, although it will probably be unlikely that you will be able to have a fixed schedule. This can be especially helpful for stay at home moms who may also have other children to care for and household duties to which to attend.

Feeding is a central component of infant care and is essential to your baby’s health. Make sure not to restrict the length and frequency of feedings, as your baby needs proper nutrition in order to grow at a healthy rate. If you are breastfeeding, follow these helpful breastfeeding tips:

nurse your baby as soon as possible after birth
use a pillow to support your baby as well as for your comfort
establish proper latch on (make sure your baby’s mouth completely covers your nipple)

Working moms can also speak to their employers about breastfeeding policies at the workplace, as well as make alternative arrangements, such as pumping milk beforehand, so that baby gets the nutrition he needs while you’re on the job.

If you experience any pain during breastfeeding, or if your baby is having trouble latching on, talk to your health care provider.

New moms are also concerned about baby sleep safety. Your newborn might sleep for up to 16 hours each day, generally sleeping for 3 to 4 hours at a time.

The following tips can help encourage healthy sleep in your newborn, as proper sleep is essential to baby care:

always put your baby in her crib for sleep time; this will help her associate sleeping with her crib and help to establish a routine
put your baby to sleep on her back; this reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
reduce stimulation at night; dim the lights prior to bedtime and stay silent or speak in only soothing voices to help lull your baby to sleep. It can also be helpful to establish a bedtime routine; for example, make bath time prior to bed time.
make sure there’s nothing in or near your baby’s crib, including bedding, stuffed animals and drapes; these objects could pose a hazard to your newborn

Is your baby still crying? Soothing a crying baby can be a frustrating and emotionally draining experience for a mom, even if you’re a second or third time mom.

Sitting in a rocking chair or carrying your baby close to you can help soothe your newborn. Also, going for a walk or a ride in the car can help your newborn relax, as can speaking in soothing tones or singing to your baby. Wrapping your child in a blanket can also help calm your baby. If you are feeling frustrated, take a few minutes to breathe deeply.

Always remember that you’re not alone when taking care of your newborn. Even if you’re a single parent, you still have resources available – including your health care provider, family and friends – to provide you with advice on how to take care of your newborn.