Parenting
The Six Month Milestone For New Families
Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
Who knew that so much could happen in the first six months of being a parent? Every day from that first real smile all the way up to now has been one miracle after another if you really stop to think about it. On the horizon is toddlerhood, and behind you is infanthood. What you have right now is a precious blend of baby and family. Time will not stand still even if you beg and barter, and the six month mark is a milestone worth remembering.
The baby bath has moved from the sink to the tub. You now hear cooing in the Dect baby monitor late at night. You’ve even started to create your own specially prepared foods with the Hamilton Beach food processor your mother gave you. She expected natural foods.
The first half of a year is usually dedicated to an adjustment period. These are known as the quiet months where you and your baby have started bonding and you start to learn balancing techniques to make life easier. The quiet will soon be replaced by a toddler, and most parents are still madly in love with the tiny things like watching their baby sleep.
Celebration is often called for as this time passes. Parties that mark the occasion are common, especially when family and friends have been part of the initial six month adjustment period. This time is when people stop seeing you as a new parent, and start referring to you as a parent.
The entire family unit can grow and change so much in those first six months. If your family consists of just the two of you or is made up of twelve members, you can count on the dynamics and the personal lives of each member to be impacted in some way. It doesn’t all have to be positive. Sometimes growth comes with challenges.
Some couples find that this is the time that they can come back together. Working and taking on their new parental role can be difficult for some couples, and the end result is a need to spend some uninterrupted time together to come back to each other. Other couples are madly in love and feel closer than ever.
This is the time to look back and make sure the first six months are documented, that you have your initial grounding, and that you feel your footing is strong for the next move forward. Every moment counts in your baby’s life, as in yours.
The amazing initial months of parenthood have also been transitional time set aside for everyone. Now is a good time to come together, review, and talk about how you all would like to see things happen in the next six months.
Things Parents Should Know About Supplies For A Newborn
Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
The arrival of a newborn into a home is a magical time. They are initially so helpless that new parents often feel out of their element in trying to meet the needs of someone that can’t explain their own needs. However, there are ways to ensure that the magic lasts and the experience is enjoyed to the fullest.
Planning ahead and anticipating needs is of the utmost importance prior to baby’s arrival. Not only should ample supplies be readily available when needed, but the right product for the right job also should be evaluated. Simple things like how to keep the baby clean, needs while transporting them, and deciding what to feed them can all cause new parents worry, but it should be the least of their concerns.
Newborns have yet to develop the muscle control to help parents while bathing. In fact, instinctive movements added with slippery soap can make them extremely hard to control during this daily activity. If trying to bathe an infant in a full-size bathtub, this is even more difficult. Not only are parents placed in an awkward position, but germs and bacteria in the containers can cause health problems not easily cured. Fortunately today, baby bath tubs are high-end devices that take all these issues into account.
There are many design available for this product and having the right one will not only make a parent’s life easier, but will be healthier and safer for the infant as well. Today most come with non-skid surfaces that are easy to sanitize and are very portable in order to provide more flexibility in where it can be used. Additionally, higher end models are even available in a claw foot style that is not only elegant to look at, but can be rolled to a more convenient location when being used.
Designers today are reflecting the fact that the stage from infant to child is one of significant growth and change. In order to eliminate the need for parents to constantly buy high-priced products many are now grow-with-me styles that can be adapted as the infant grows. Many know of the cribs which go from standard style, to toddler bed, to double, but few know of products like the evenflo convertible car seat which works much the same way. As the infant advances into each stage, this device converts from a backward facing infant seat, to a forward facing toddler seat, and finally a youth chair meaning it is a one-time purchase regardless of the changes in a child’s life.
One of the areas of greatest concern is, perhaps, one of the simplest and that is in what to feed young ones. Research abounds about the benefits and drawbacks of breastfeeding versus bottle feeding and whether processed jars of food are really as good as fresh food. For many concerns about the cost require measures not previously considered; however, with products like the kitchenaid food processor options are now available that work well with a budget. By taking cooked food and setting the blender on puree food can be made within minutes often right from that the family is eating and leftovers can be frozen in ice cube trays for later use.
With all the necessities ready and available, questions on parents’ minds about what might have been forgotten will be the last concern. Research and information is available in many forms and can be accessed easily. Whether utilizing the experience of other parents, searching on the Internet, or gaining information from the many support groups today, new parents can find peace-of-mind by knowing they have the best products available for that bundle of joy that will bring years of treasured memories to any home.
Things To Think About With Your New Baby
Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
Having a child can simultaneously be the most wonderful and daunting thing that can happen in your life. Every parent wants their child to be safe from harm and to grow up big and strong.
One of the most dangerous things for babies is something that people continue to know little about. The phenomenon of ‘cot death’ kills many children each year and whilst we know some factors that contribute to it, there is no conclusion as yet that explains why it exactly happens. One thing to avoid however is to make sure that you do not let your child overheat.
Parents take an understandable interest in their kids being warm and often this goes too far. When a kid is too warm they can actually shut down and they wont cry to let you know that something is wrong, unlike when they are cold, which will make them cry to high heaven. Its important to make sure that your child isn’t totally overwhelmed with blankets at they will be unable to shift them to lose heat if they get too warm. Have a wireless baby monitor or something in the room to keep an eye on them.
Mothers can often want to sleep with their new infants or just rest with them in their arms and then end up falling asleep because they are so exhausted. This is something that parents should try to avoid. This can make them too warm and also runs the risk of them getting suffocated. Its also very important that parents are sure to never leave their babies alone when bathing them. Its a good idea to have a baby bath tubs for your kids to wash them in.
Its also very important for parents to make sure that their house is fully baby proofed and that there is no way that their infants can cause themselves harm. One particularly important thing is to make sure that their are baby gates all over the house, and particularly at the top and bottom of staircases.
Another thing to consider is whether or not to breast feed. Breast feeding is a great way for a mother to bond with a baby and is also considered to be great for the child’s development. If choosing not to breast feed then using something like an isis breast pump to express milk is another good option.
Becoming a parent can be a tricky time for many, but also the most wonderful thing that you can do.
Getting Those Things For That New Baby
Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
So you need to get all ready for that new baby? Your first baby and possible one of many depending on how many you plan. But your budget could be stretched tightly and you’re not sure what you can afford. Don’t give up quality just because you don’t want to look around. Seek out consignment stores and second hand stores to shop in. Plus you have the baby showers that you’ll probably have too.
Certain brands of items may stand out among the choices of several of these items that you look at. This will be to help you get the best products that will last a longer time, and be safe and sound for your baby. Such an example is the snugride car seat. With this item you will be receiving the seat and also a detachable carrier. So it’s like two things in one, and that means you will save money when you buy it!
As your baby starts to be able to sit by him or herself you will need to find something else for transportation. If you head out to the store, you won’t want to carry them, and they may be too big for that carrier. Get a graco stroller to help in these situations. They offer a name that has been around for years, and a way to save you money because they aren’t too expensive.
Maybe a thing that you won’t really think of is those baby bath tubs that they have out. These are a really nice thing to have. Not only are they small enough to carry, but they give you a safe way to bath your newborn. You can use this for many months until the baby is ready for the big tub!
That’s not all of course that you will need when you’re expecting a baby. You have things that you will need to have many of. Like towels for spit up moments, blankets to keep that baby covered up, and those little outfits to keep them in. Not only will you need a few, but many, unless you plan on doing laundry a heck of a lot.
You will find that you either have a lot of them, or you will end up needing to do laundry a lot. And when your raising a baby, you have little energy at times for that time of doing clothes. So keep on hand as many of those as you can.
So get it all ready, and get ready too. Because though it’s a great time in life, you will be tired for a bit. Lack of sleep, until they get on that schedule can seem quite hard. But you’ll adapt to it, and soon they will be all grown up and moving out!
Some Different Types Of Baby Items To Look At
Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
These are not only some great ideas for a baby shower, but if you have a person you know who is going to give birth soon. Well they will also work very well for a Christmas present for them this year. Something that every new mother to be will enjoy, and even a unique idea that will be something they will enjoy immensely.
Everyone knows that for that brand new baby the happy couple will need a car seat. Check out a special gift of a britax car seat for that family. Providing a comfortable and nice baby seat to bring their new bundle home from the hospital.
Though you may think you can wait, it’s always a great idea to be prepared ahead of time. By getting your baby bath toys set up now you will have them when they are needed. Everyone loves a rubber ducky, but think of other things that you can add into that bath time.
As the child is sitting in the tub the parent can make noises and explain what the toys are. It’s also something really fun to see when the baby tries to imitate the noises that they hear. Soon trying to say the words and maybe even uttering those first words at bath time. Look for items that can serve as fun and learning for these toys.
Another idea that will be quite unique and will offer those parents a nice break is the digital book reader. Giving them the chance to sit in the baby’s room and not read, but have a story read to the child. They can watch and see the wonder in the child’s eyes as they hear the story unfold. This will work fantastic for learning new things too.
You will also enjoy the fact of not always having to come up with a story at bedtime. Giving them a unique way to learn, and to look forward to bedtime too. Fewer problems putting them to bed will be something you should enjoy a lot.
Look into these three different ideas for that new parent to be. Or if you happen to be the one who is having a baby, think of adding them to your registry list. Having someone buy you something like this will help you raise your baby.
Finally, it’s a wonderful thing to enjoy having a baby. Be prepared and get ready for your life to change, but for the good. Yes there will be tough times, but it will all be worth it.
The merits of arts and crafts for children
Monday, February 15th, 2010 | Parenting | No Comments
The benefits of arts and crafts such as drawing and coloring for kids are frequently argued by child development experts, educators and parents alike… especially so for the impact they have on child development. However, it is difficult to argue with the top three reasons why we should all encourage the children in our care to take part in arts and crafts.
Creativity - If you were to ask a cross section of individuals what is the first personality characteristic that arts and crafts will develop in a young child - most would answer ‘creativity’. And they are certainly correct. Everyone has natural talents and skills and it is possible to improve and boost them… even if you only have a little natural talent. Creativity enables your child to try out and profit from new ideas, options and alternatives in any future career. Kids learn to do things in new and alternate ways and literally profit from thinking “out of the box”.
Perseverance - Perseverance is perhaps the single most important quality for any successful business person, sportsman, professional or individual. In fact, most well-known breakthroughs in life have been attributed to perseverance alone. Arts and crafts improve everyone’s level of perseverance.For instance, children learn to keep trying until they accomplish the task, be it a sculpture or a coloring in sheet. If something goes wrong… they are encouraged to persist by trying new ways and means and the pay-off is a wonderful piece of art that they have created.
Concentration - Akin to having perseverance, developing concentration is another quality well-worth having as an individual.Drawing, colouring, sculpting clay or aluminium foil, painting and even doodling will definitely teach your child to focus on one specific task at hand… ignoring other distractions. In short - their overall concentration will definitely improve.
Even from a young age kids can draw and color - therefore give them blank pieces of paper or coloring in sheets so that they can scribble away to their hearts content whilst also improving their fine motor skills.
For example at sites like Spiderman Coloring you’ll find Spiderman Coloring Book as well as coloring pages, funny pics and more.
Little girls on the other hand tend to prefer images of fairies and princesses – however, favorite characters such as those from Disney movies are also hits.
Give your child many opportunities to experience being creative, concentrating and perservering through the fun medium of arts and crafts. Provide them with materials as well as resources and the occasional canvas so that they can be creative and feel pride in what they create.
Make The Event Really Special With A Personalized Baby Shower Gift
Thursday, October 2nd, 2008 | Parenting | No Comments
There are a lot of effective and beautiful ways to personalize a baby shower gift and the results can make a gift something very special.
A gift may be personalized by putting a sticker on the bottom, embossing it on the side or stitching it across the top. And your addition could display the name of the baby, the parents’ names, the names of the grandparents or the name of the giver.
A baby shower gift could even be decorated with a meaningful phrase, logo or photo. The text used to personalize the gift might be selected by the giver or added by the gift’s designer. A logo could be drawn by a professional artist or by the individual who buys the gift. A photo might be picked from a wide range of professional stock images or supplied by the giverand then incorporated into the baby gift.
Personalization literally transforms an impersonal gift into a keepsake which is going to be treasured for many years. It offers a reminder of festive occasions and imparts an incentive to hand the gift on from generation to generation. Monogramming can be used to add names to items made of cloth and printing provides an ideal way to personalize any item which can absorb ink.
For instance, a slumber bear makes for a perfect gift. Children love the soft, teddy bear design while parents are happy knowing the gift is durable and made from good materials. In later years both parents and the then baby can look back on the baby shower at which the gift was received and personalizing the gift makes the memories all the sweeter.
Another wonderful gift is a Dilly the Duck cashmere booster pillow that presents the ideal opportunity to stitch on the baby’s name. In later years that present will evolve from being a treasured nursery item to a reminder of those tender years. Many years after it has been given both parties can remember back to the many happy times spent reading a story while the youngster’s head rested on it.
And storybooks can themselves be personalized in the shape of a Fairy Tale book that carries all sorts of of individual markings. For stories that are written by the parents, they can be signed with the author’s name and date. When the book is purchased then the gift giver can sign the book and perhaps print the name of the recipient. All these methods and more can turn a simple book into a precious reminder of childhood.
Yet another baby shower gift that offers the opportunity for personalization is a birth plate on which to paint the baby’s name across the rim or on the bottom. Here the best choice is probably to print the baby’s name, birth weight and date along the rim to commemorate the birth of that special individual who entered your life on that day.
Of course these are only a few of the many ways to personalize everything from a simple gift to elaborate newborn baby gift baskets.
Can Today’s Children Be Happy - Without Being Spoiled?
Saturday, August 30th, 2008 | Parenting | No Comments
The so-called Baby Boomer Generation grew up with few of the luxuries most children seem to have today. Some would say that the simpler life of the 50’s and 60’s also made for happier children. They had less consumer products, less TV, and no such thing as video games. Can children be happy in the early part of the 21st century without parents spoiling them rotten? The answer is an unqualified yes.
Look at today’s children. Cells phones, designer clothes, hand-held games, mom or dad based “taxi” service, and much more. How are children being raised today? Since the boomers did not have any of this, something must be missing in order to fit in all the new. What?
Then there are the role models. Celebrities, celebrities, and celebrities. One has to wonder what our youth think when they read all the “gossip” in the papers and magazines. That is followed by the entertainment tonight shows highlighting the mess their “hero” is in.
We all want to raise happy, well adjusted, children. If you really want this result, then there will be times when you must say “No”. If too much comes on a silver platter, then how will they learn to deal with life when they move out? Will you continue to spoil them after they have a major blow-up with their partner? One parent wrote in to a well known columnist saying that they finally learned to say no, and now their married daughter has not returned their calls for 3 months!
If you give your child everything they desire (which in some cases is just based on what they saw a friend get) you will deprive them of experiencing the ups and down of life; which could prevent them from reaching their goals later in life. Disappointment is something that we all must go through. Better to learn to deal with the facts of disappointment early in life rather than later.
You have heard the saying - “If you don’t expect it, you’ll never be disappointed.”
“Things” are not where it’s at. Values, morals, and the unconditional love that abounds within the family. That is where it’s at. Keep these principles in mind and raising happy children without spoiling them rotten will be easy.
The 3 Pillars of Home Schooling Your Children
Friday, August 29th, 2008 | Parenting | No Comments
Home schooling your children can be as easy or as hard as you want to make it. Depending on the time and effort you choose to put into home schooling, you and your children’s experience could be an excellent one.
A few steps can put you on the right path to a great home schooling experience, the first of these steps is to take into account all of the aspects that go along with home schooling and then to make sure they are all applied correctly.
A Real Learning Environment
Of all the aspects that go along with home schooling, providing your children with a relaxed but professional learning environment is crucial and most important. The learning environment you choose should be a room free of distractions such as televisions, phones, computers and food.
The room should offer a whiteboard attached to the wall that will outline what the day’s schedule is, and a wall shelf for children to keep school work and other school related materials is also necessary.
Finally, a sturdy study table and comfortable chair should be provided, making it enjoyable, relaxing but realistic for your children to learn!
School Materials and Lesson Plans
Home schooling requires someone to act as a teacher that can be relied upon to prepare lesson plans and make sure children are learning what they should for their age and grade group. This can be done a number of different ways:
1. Hire a tutor to bring learning materials and lesson plans with them, and to teach your children for a few hours per day. This is helpful to those who work or have active schedules, and want to provide a routine for their children.
2. Do it yourself with purchased learning material. Whether it be online or through a support group, there are resources available to provide learning material for home schooling. Whether it be a homeschooling book or workbook material among other things, this option works well for those that do have the time to teach their children but don’t have the expertise to create their own lesson plans.
3. Do it yourself, from scratch. You can type and print up your own lesson plans if you know what your children should be learning. In most cases, home schooling parents find that self discipline and good management skills is all it takes to take this route.
Finally, there are other home schooling options available such as Internet home school programs which are becoming quite popular and are continuing to become more and more available. Finding a local or internet home schooling support group can help to put you in touch with many resources that are valuable.