Baby

4 Ways to Save in Baby’s First Year

Family Dad Of Five — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 21:03:44 -0400

When you’re expecting a new little one, there is a lot of excitement, but there are also a lot of expenses. Budgeting with baby in mind can seem like a daunting task, and the expenses just keep piling up.

Car seats, for example, need to be purchased new to ensure that they meet current requirements and haven’t been involved in an accident. Buying a used crib is possible, but can be a bit of a fiasco in its own way. First you have to make sure it hasn’t been recalled; then you need to make sure there are no missing pieces and that the crib meets current safety standards. Then, you still need a new mattress that must fit the crib you bought used! To ensure safety, many parents simply opt for a new crib.

How can you counter these large expenses that you will have to deal with in the coming months? By saving a chunk of cash anywhere you can. These four tips will get you started.

Breastfeed

Breastfeeding will save you money by avoiding the expense of formula, bottles, teats, and cleaning paraphernalia. It also saves you the time it would take to warm up a bottle with each feeding, and the clean-up required afterward. Plus, breastfeeding is better for your baby, delivering easily digestible, complete nutrition and antibodies to help protect your little one while their immune system is still developing. Breastfeeding also lowers Mom’s stress level and risk of postpartum depression, helps the uterus return to pre-pregnancy size, and burns calories to help lose the baby weight. In short, breastfeeding offers extra health benefits for both Mom and baby, that don’t cost a dime. It may even help you to save more money by paying fewer prescription charges or health insurance deductibles.

Consider Cloth Diapers

If you’re looking to save money, cloth diapers may be the way to go. Know that there is a larger commitment of time in the form of cleaning and laundry compared to disposables, but the financial trade-off can be huge. Plus, you can continue to use cloth diapers on subsequent children or sell them online, where there is a decent resale market.

Make Your Own Baby Food

Once your little one begins to eat solid foods, there is no reason at all for you to shell out for pricey jarred baby foods. Your baby can often eat exactly what you eat; just puree it in a food processor or put it through a food mill. If you want to make baby food ahead of time and freeze it yourself, you’ll easily be able to find recipes online. Either way, you’ll save a bundle over those prepackaged mini-servings.

Buy Used Baby Clothes

Babies grow so quickly that there is a huge second-hand clothing market, including many items that were never worn at all! While there’s no reason you have to buy every piece of clothing used, don’t neglect this option. Check second hand stores and garage sales, and seek out used clothing shops dedicated to baby gear; chances are you have one in your area. And as your baby grows, don’t forget to sell some of their gently used clothing to make a little money back.

While there is no doubt that adding a new member to the family will cost you, there is no reason it needs to push you to the financial brink. If you can take advantage of just one or two of these tips, you’ll save a ton of money. Then you can keep your focus off your wallet and on your baby, where it belongs.

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This article is by Sabrina Matheson, who shares family frugal living tips online and helps people compare private health insurance to find a fair deal.

Types of Clothes for Newborn

Family Dad Of Five — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 17:50:50 -0500

If you are expecting a little bundle of joy to light up your life soon, chances are that you are overwhelmed by the clothing choices for your baby. Before you consider your choices, keep in mind that certain fabric like lace, though very pretty on babies, can be abrasive on a newborn’s soft, tender skin. Natural fabric, like cotton, allows the skin to breathe and is ideal for newborn clothing. When cotton is blended with polyester or spandex, you get a more durable fabric that is easy to care for. Another important factor to consider is the weather. If you are expecting to have your baby in the winter months, it is a good idea to have enough clothing to dress your baby in layers. Here is a list of the types of clothes you will need to complete your newborn’s wardrobe:

Onesies

Onesies are a type of one-piece bodysuit that can be worn both as an undergarment, as well as an outfit. If your baby is expected when it’s warmer, all you need are onesies and swaddling blankets. For the colder months, long sleeved onesies work best as undergarments, as they keep the baby snug and warm and are great for layering. Since newborns need frequent changing, it is a good idea to have at least six to eight onesies for your baby.

Side Snap T-shirts

Side snap T-shirts are great if you do not want clothing that has to be pulled over your baby’s head. They are as easy to take off as they are to put on. They make a great outfit when paired with footed sleeper pants. They can also be worn over onesies to create layers in the winter months. Six to eight of these T-shirts should be enough to start with.

Footed Sleepers

Footed sleepers, as the name suggests, are pants that also cover the feet. These are ideal for new born babies as they do not ride up like pants. Available in cotton, cotton blends and fleece, there is a footed sleeper for every season. These can be worn both indoors and out, so have at least seven to eight pairs handy.

Gowns

Also known as a sleeping gown, this garment is perfect for the indoors and makes diaper changing a breeze. Available as over-the-head and snap down, many new mothers find that the gown is the easiest garment to manage, especially as newborns require frequent diaper changes. If you plan on using gowns more than any other garment, have at least seven of these on hand.

Sweaters and Jackets

Sweaters and jackets are an important part of the newborn wardrobe. Even if you are expecting your baby in the warmer months, it is a good idea to buy a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings and nights. For the cooler months, consider fleece jackets. Cashmere is also an option, but considering how fast babies outgrow clothes, this could be an unnecessary splurge.

Caps, Booties and Mittens

To ensure that your newborn is kept warm and healthy, remember to have at least two caps, six to seven pairs of booties or socks and a few pairs of mittens. Since socks and mittens tend to slip off new born babies, consider buying the ones that have a Velcro closure.

Damian Wolf is guest blogger and future father. He is especially delighted to contribute for newborn baby clothes website, because he will become a father in May this year.

Benefits of Baby Sign Language

Family Dad Of Five — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:33:05 -0500

Babies spend most of each day sleeping, eating, and crying. One of the most frustrating things about having a young baby is trying to figure out what is needed when they are crying. While some of their particular cries can be distinguished, it is not always easy to know exactly what your child needs at any given moment, which can be especially frustrating in the middle of the night. There is a growing movement of mothers turning to baby sign language in order to bridge the communication barrier and provide an easier way to understand their babies long before they are able to properly articulate their needs through speech. Sign language is not just for the deaf, and children who use sign language before they can speak reap additional psychological and intellectual benefits as well.

Early Development

Non-verbal communication is an important part of a child’s early development. There are a variety of styles of baby sign language, but all provide a way for parent and child to communicate with one another. Some parents choose to use a made-up set of signs, while others stick to traditional signs that can later be slightly altered and used in proper American Sign Language. Babies are able to control some hand movements long before they can speak. You can begin introducing sign language at birth, but most babies can best use signs starting around seven months. Teaching your child is simple, just use a sign along with the verbal word each time you say it. Make sure you use the same sign each time you use the word, and be sure to repeat the words/signs often. Repetition is the key to quick learning. Introduce just a couple new signs at any given time and be sure each is introduced in context.

Emotional Expression

Temper tantrums in young children are often caused by excess frustration due to the inability to verbally express themselves. Learning sign language as a baby helps to cut down on those unwanted tantrums because babies and toddlers have a way to communicate their desires with their parents. A one-sided conversation is an aggravating experience for anyone; using sign language allows children to convey their message, which cuts down on both crying and frustration.

Infants are emotional creatures, laughing and crying, screaming and whimpering to express their many emotions. Having the ability to convey needs and wants through baby sign language is emotionally satisfying. Feelings of anger that are the result of an inability to communicate are not as frequent. Less anger often means fewer incidents of unwanted behavior and habits like biting and hitting. Happy babies will later turn into happier toddlers that are able to properly express themselves. Confidence and self-esteem are also improved through successful interaction and communication with adults.

Advanced Speech

Many babies who learn to sign end up speaking earlier than non-signing babies, and even those who speak at a normal rate often have an easier time learning language. Signing motivates babies to learn to speak meaningfully. They often have larger vocabularies and become better readers as well, as baby sign language provides a good foundation for early literacy. This is partially due to the fact that signing stimulates more synapses of the brain. Signing babies have also been shown to have slightly higher IQs than those who do not sign. Baby sign language provides a foundation for further learning ASL, meaning your child could fairly easily become bilingual through increased signing skills, which could be very beneficial throughout their childhood and into adulthood as well.

Citations:

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Olivia Nicholas is a busy mom to twin boys and believes that each child should be given the skills and ability to reach their pull potential. Olivia is in the invitations business and loves to write and share her parenting experiences with other by writing for Storkie.

Keeping Your Baby Warm This Winter

Family Dad Of Five — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:36:26 -0500

by Audrey Hegarty

Now that we are into November \ December, we can expect to see some grisly weather coming our way. There are stories being thrown about that this winter is set to be one of the coldest in history with night time temperatures to allegedly hit lows of -16. Not a typo I actually did say -16!! Who knows maybe Mr. Crosby's dreams will come true and we will have a white Christmas. This is all very well, but what about those little babies who have just left the warmth and security of their mother's womb, only to arrive in the cold winter world of torrid rain and biting winds and if we are to believe the gossip never before experienced cold snaps!

To prepare your baby for the cold days that are coming, I thought up of some tips for keeping your baby all cosy and warm this Christmas. The main thing we need to take into account is that we don't actually over heat the baby while trying to protect them. Babies can be very resilient in many different ways. They make look very vulnerable but we must be wary of over protecting them.

It's widely believed that its not cold weather that gives baby a cold, rather contact with people who have virus or infection. That doesn't mean that you have to hibernate until spring, rather avoid tightly crowded places for the first 3 months or so until baby has had a chance to strengthen his or her immune system.

It's probably best to avoid unnecessary close contact with persons who have a runny nose or appear to be snuffling greatly! It is best to keep baby's vaccines up to date also. Babies with underlying conditions or premature babies may need extra care, we recommend consulting with your health care practitioner in this case!

In terms of baby clothing your baby will need a pair of soft soled leather shoes or fur lined bootees. These baby shoes will keep a babies' foot warm and they will also prevent baby socks from falling off.

Visit Tiptoe Tots for great prices on baby shoes this winter. You can also purchase baby leggings and baby socks too.

Footnote: It is interesting to note that the UK and Europe are already receiving the heaviest snows in over a decade, and we're still not done with November just yet. Pundits are probably correct, this may well become a very cold winter. On this side of the world, we have the opposite to deal with. A hot summer and how to keep your baby in cool. Coughs and Colds in new born babies is still a worry, even in summer.

Understanding And Dealing With Bruxism

Family Dad Of Five — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 07:49:28 -0400

by Baron Scott

Bruxism - AKA - Teeth Grinding

Bruxism is not a rare condition and it is one that is more talked about now than ever before. Bruxism is a condition that can range from being so mild that it is hardly noticeable to so severe it causes problems in the person's regular everyday life. However, over time doctors have learned more about the condition and have determined that there is a strong association between bruxism and stress and anxiety. When a person is overstressed it can affect them in numerous ways and even cause a condition like bruxism to develop.

Stress is always unhealthy for the body and can show up in various ways, including through grinding of the teeth. This can be more than just a nuisance it can be potentially dangerous. Bruxism can cause chipped teeth, missing teeth, gum infections and more. As soon as the signs of bruxism are noticed that person needs to get in and talk to their doctor right away.

There are a few options for treatment that doctors may suggest depending on the severity of the condition. The first step is to get started with stress management and try to relieve stress from the patient's life. Relaxation exercises like yoga and meditation work well and can be done easily in the morning or right before going to bed at night. These help to ease and calm the mind and even just doing them a few times a week can really help.

For people who have experienced dental problems as a result of their bruxism, mouth guards are often recommended. This will be custom fitted to the patient's mouth and put in before going to bed at night. Even anti anxiety medications are often prescribed to help people relax. Medication is rarely prescribed but can be used in more serious cases.

Muscle relaxants are often prescribed as these will help to loosen the muscle of the jaw before bed. Everyone is different so for anyone with bruxism it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional and have them work with you to figure out the best solution. They will be able to find the best treatment for you and your particular condition. It is important to get checked out and make sure there is no more serious health condition at play.

Things Babies Do While Sleeping That Concern Their Parents

Family Dad Of Five — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:33:33 -0400

by Tanner Messy

When people imagine a sleeping infant, they think of a baby sound asleep without the slightest hint of stirring. While babies do sometimes sleep this peacefully, they often don't. Their slumber is punctuated by periodic snorts, rocking, pauses between breaths, and even knocking their heads repeatedly against their cribs. Many new moms and dads are understandably concerned when they witness such things.

These and other activities are common with sleeping infants, and seldom signal a reason to worry. That said, it's worth learning why they occur, and when you should call your doctor. Below, we'll describe a few behaviors your baby might display while sleeping, and help you identify whether they indicate a problem.

Moving Back And Forth

Some infants rock when they sleep. You'll notice them swaying moving back and forth, as if keeping time with a metronome. Babies often do this because the motion is soothing to them. When they sleep, it occurs naturally.

There's no need for concern unless your little one begins to rock back and forth aggressively; even then, it's rarely a problem. Tighten the screws on her crib each morning, however, since her constant movement may loosen them.

Light, Steady Snoring

Infants often snore for the same reasons adults snore, including a restricted passageway through their noses. If you hear your little one snoring lightly, and doing so steadily, the cause is likely a congested nose. On the other hand, if your baby's snoring is erratic, or she does it aggressively, have your doctor examine her air passages. She could be battling obstructive sleep apnea.

Grinding Teeth

Known as bruxism, a lot of babies grind their teeth while sleeping once their first few teeth come in. This typically occurs at six months. The grinding can persist for years. It sounds worse than it is. Teeth, even those of a baby, are incredibly strong. A few years of grinding will rarely damage them, or cause them to become worn (though it can happen). Nor does the activity cause pain for babies.

When you take your little one to her first dental appointment (usually by twelve months), mention the grinding to the dentist. He or she can examine your baby's teeth for signs of damage.

Hitting Their Heads Against Their Cribs

Of all sleep behaviors, this is the one that most startles new moms and dads. While their babies are sleeping, many of them hit their foreheads or the backs of their heads against the sides of their cribs. They do so gently, so there is seldom need for concern. This does little to console new parents, however.

It is estimated that one in five infants routinely hit their heads while they sleep. Boys are much more likely to engage in the behavior than girls. If you notice your little one banging her head while she sleeps, have your doctor examine her. While problems are rare, and the behavior is usually harmless, it's better to make certain.

Heavily Perspiring

Many babies sweat while they slumber. They don't form a light sheen of perspiration - their sweating is copious. It's common and usually happens when they're sleeping at their deepest point during the night.

Keep watch over your little one to identify additional signs that may indicate a health problem. For example, if she is sweating and having difficulty breathing, she may have an infection. If the temperature in her room is relatively low, yet she still sweats heavily, her sweating might indicate a problem that could lead to SIDS. Sweating rarely implies anything is wrong with your infant. However, as with a baby who hits her head while sleeping, it is better to make sure.

Don't be alarmed if your little one displays any of the behaviors described above while she sleeps. Keep a wary eye on her, and call your doctor if you suspect a lingering problem. Realize, however, that babies often sleep fitfully.

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Breast Cancer And Pregnancy

Family Dad Of Five — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 21:48:34 -0400

by Diego Armando

Although it is rare for breast cancer to strike younger women, the fact remains that all women are at risk. And for those of childbearing age, the first sign and symptoms of breast cancer leading to a diagnosis can not only be upsetting and unexpected, but complicated as well.

Developing breast cancer at a younger age-in a woman's 40s, 30s, even 20s-will mean making important and difficult decisions about one's life and future perhaps much sooner than originally expected.

One concern is developing breast cancer during pregnancy, which although rare, can still occur. In this case, the treatment chosen will not only affect the patient and her body, but the growing baby inside her as well. It will depend on what stage of pregnancy she is in (first, second or third trimester) and what stage her cancer is in-such as whether or not it's advanced.

Most pregnant women can have treatment for their breast cancer without affecting the baby. But some might be advised by their obstetrician or health-care practitioner-or even decide themselves-to terminate the pregnancy, more so if the pregnancy is in its earlier stages, in order to receive certain treatments that would be too risky otherwise. But it is essential to remember that it is a woman's own decision-it is not medically necessary to terminate a pregnancy if the expectant mother is diagnosed with breast cancer. All it does is limit treatment options. Breast cancer itself will not affect the fetus-only certain tests and treatments will.

Generally speaking, tamoxifen, chemotherapy, radiation, and other drug-related therapies are avoided if the woman is pregnant because of their associated risks with birth defects. Tamoxifen, especially, is considered very unsafe because it is a hormonal therapy and is never recommended if the woman is pregnant or planning on conceiving.

Surgery-either a lumpectomy or mastectomy-is the most common and preferred method of treatment for breast cancer in pregnant women.

Another concern is whether or not breast cancer survivors can or should go on to have children after treatment and recovery. It's a very controversial issue with firm advocates on both sides of the debate.

There are two main questions here, for both the medical and health community and breast cancer survivors wanting their own children:

1) Do certain breast cancer treatments affect fertility?; and
2) Is it actually considered safe to conceive and carry a baby to term following breast cancer and breast cancer treatments?

As far as fertility goes, there is no definite answer here. For chemotherapy, it depends on the age and what specific drug was used-some affect fertility more than others. And taking tamoxifen after chemotherapy to prevent recurrence is not recommended if the woman desires to become pregnant right away. Although tamoxifen is sometimes used as a fertility treatment, there is evidence to suggest that it damages developing embryos, and therefore is not considered safe to use.

Many doctors caution these women to wait several years to ensure receiving the best breast cancer treatment possible and to go past the point of the biggest threat of breast cancer recurrence. But some women decide to go ahead and have babies anyway, since it's so important to them.

Footnote: Always check with your health professionals before making any decisions. As time passes medical breakthroughs may make the information in this article irrelevant.

Healthy Eating For Babies And Toddlers

Family Dad Of Five — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 18:57:27 -0400

by Colby Brister

Nutrition is a vital part of the development of humans, plants, and animals alike. There is a delicate balance that must be met in order for a person, especially a child, to develop properly. When children are younger, parents encourage them to eat fruits and vegetables, but it is generally up to the child what is eaten. It is up to you as a parent to ensure that your baby or toddler is getting the right nutrients each day to grow strong and healthy. There are many questions in the modern age when it comes to health, but by following some simple rules, you will ensure that your baby or toddler will grow into a self reliant adult that makes healthy eating decisions. It starts from the very first bite of food.

Beginning good eating habits begins with your pregnancy. Proper consumption of carbohydrates, protein, and vitamins leads to an uncomplicated birth, a healthy mother, and a healthy baby. You should continue your great eating trends into the breast feeding part of your infant's life. You are passing your nutrients directly to your child, so it is essential that you have plenty of nutrients. Mother to be and new mothers should eat lots of fresh, raw vegetables and fruits. You should try to eat different colors of the rainbow when it comes to produce, and limit sodium and Trans fat intake. It is best to eliminate Trans fat and caffeine altogether. As your child begins eating foods, make sure that it is organic, pure, and free of chemical add in's or fillers.

You need to understand the right kinds of foods that should be eaten by babies and toddlers. Babies do not need solid foods until they are a year old, but your doctor may suggest it sooner or later for your child. You should begin with one fruit or vegetable at a time and stay away from peanuts and strawberries, as they can cause allergies when introduced too early. Once your child begins eating regular foods, you should encourage many different fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and juices. Your child should discover the foods that he likes, and try them different ways. These steps can ensure that your child enters adolescence with healthy eating habits and tastes.

You should try to eat lots of different things with your children to provide them with an open mind about new foods, and this also gives them the most nutrients possible. If you have a picky child, try disguising the vegetables and fruits that they don't like with the foods that they love. For example, chocolate milk has long been a way for mother's to get young children to get more calcium. Try vanilla soy milk for the same effect with less processed sugar. Eating organic foods can also be great.

You can ensure that your child is developing great eating habits by setting an example and doing your research. Keep improving your own habits as well. Your entire family will be better off for it.

Preparations When Expecting A Baby

Family Dad Of Five — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 21:59:08 -0400

by James Lunden

When you and your partner get the exciting news that you're expecting a baby, there are many things to consider. This will be an emotional time, filled with exciting milestones and decisions. Getting everything ready for baby will be fun and exciting for both parents. From baby showers to birth plans, there is much to consider when it comes to getting ready for your new bundle of joy.

Once you get the official word that you are expecting a baby, it's time to start preparing for her arrival. Picking out a name, choosing a design theme for the nursery, and buying adorable clothes for baby are just a few of the thrilling things that you'll be doing in the months leading up to baby's arrival.

For many parents, picking out the name can be one of the most fun experiences. From family names to funky and unusual names, there are so many options to consider. It is also a thrill to start preparing the nursery for baby. Choosing the perfect theme, buying all the furniture, and decorating the nursery are important parts of getting ready for baby.

It's also fun to start buying clothes when expecting a baby. Finding the perfect outfit for her to wear home from the hospital is one of the many important decisions to be made as the due date approaches. The birthing plan is also a major preparation in getting ready for baby. Making sure there is a baby shower to take care of all the things you need for your new bundle of joy can be helpful as well.

As you get closer to meeting your baby for the first time, it can be a very emotional time. Expecting a baby is one of the most important times in your life, so it's a good idea to cherish all the moments leading up to her arrival.

Reasons For Baby Not Sleeping

Family Dad Of Five — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 23:33:29 -0400

by James Lunden

Having a new baby is an exciting and overwhelming experience. From sleepless nights to midnight feedings, most parents don't get much sleep. With most newborns sleeping up to 20 hours a day, parents are faced with frequent feedings and short periods of rest. This is only made worse in the case of their baby not sleeping. There are many things that can cause baby to have trouble sleeping, so it's important to know the causes so you can take care of the problem of sleeplessness.

There are certain ailments that can cause sleeplessness in babies. Ear infections are common causes of discomfort in babies and can lead to baby not sleeping. Getting to a doctor right away is important if you suspect an ear infection. There are other infections that might be a problem for a new baby.

Urinary tract infections are relatively common in babies as well. Being aware of the symptoms of problems like this can help baby sleep better and be healthier. Milk allergies are also common problems that can cause discomfort in babies and therefore sleeplessness.

Other problems that might lead to babies not sleeping could be things like acid reflux, fever, respiratory infections, and snoring or breathing problems. Being aware of the amount of sleep a baby should get at various stages of growth is a good way to be aware of abnormal sleep patterns. Making sure to resolve any sleep problems as soon as you notice them is important to baby's health and overall well being.

From ear infections to acid reflux, there are many things that can lead to baby not sleeping. Being aware of any irregularities and seeing your physician are important parts of keeping your baby happy and healthy. Most sleep disturbances are nothing to be alarmed about and will be resolved on their own, but it's a good idea to be aware of any changes in the sleeping habits of your baby.