baby - Have You Had Your Baby's Hearing Screened?

The majority of children can hear and listen from birth. They learn to talk by imitating both the voices of their parents and relatives and the sounds around them. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all children. Two to Three percent of children in the United States either are born deaf or are hard-of-hearing and many more lose their hearing during childhood. It is imperative that deafness or hearing loss is detected as early as possible as these babies may need to learn verbal communication and language differently. At what stage should I have my baby's hearing screened? Hearing screening should take place within the first month of life. Make sure you see a hearing expert (audiologist) if hearing loss is suspected; they should test your baby's hearing within three months of age and if hearing loss is established it is important to think about the use of hearing devices or other communication options by six months of age. Where do I go to get my baby's hearing screened? Many hospitals routinely screen all newborns for hearing loss. Some hospitals only screen those newborns considered to be at high risk of hearing loss, such as infants that have a family history of deafness or hearing problems, low birth weight, or certain other medical conditions. It is important for your baby to be screened as many children with no risk factors whose parents and grandparents have normal hearing can still are born with hearing loss. It is a good idea to find out what your hospital does. If you are already home with your baby and you are unsure if your baby's hearing was tested, ask the doctor or the clinic where your baby's records are. Many States have passed Early Hearing Detection and Intervention legislation and a few Sates frequently screen the hearing of most newborn babies although there is no legislation requiring it. If you would like to find out what your State does regarding the hearing screening for babies, you can browse the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) web site at www.asha.org. How is hearing screening preformed on babies? There are two tests used to screen hearing in babies, both of which require no activity from the baby other than lying still. The first the Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test shows if part of the ear is responding correctly to sound, a sponge earphone is positioned in the ear canal during this test and the ear is stimulated with sound, the "echo" is then measured. Everyone with normal hearing has this "echo" therefore if this is missing it could be an indicator of hearing loss. The second test is the auditory brain stem response (ABR) test, which checks how the brain and the brain stem respond to sound. During this test, electrodes are positioned on the ears and head and the child wears earphones. A child should be calm and quiet during this test so a mild sedative may be administered. Electrical activity in your child's brain, when they should be hearing, is then measured when a doctor or nurse sends sounds through the earphones If the response from the child is not consistent for the duration of these tests, a follow up hearing screening and referral to an audiologist may be suggested by your doctor. This is to provide a more comprehensive hearing evaluation. How important is it to have my baby's hearing screened early? Children begin learning speech and language within the first 6 months, the most important time for exposure to language and learning is the first three years. Research shows that early intervention for the hearing impaired produces better language skills and also the sooner you know about hearing lose or deafness, the sooner you can ensure your child benefits from strategies designed to help them learn to communicate. Linda Thompson is webmaster of http://www.allthings4baby.com where you can get anything for a baby, from information to nursery furniture and everything in between. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Thompson baby - First Baby Gift Baskets The love and cheerfulness aroused by the birth of a couple's first baby is beyond measure. Giving unique first-baby gift baskets can make this occasion a special celebration. Overflowing with gifts, first-baby gift baskets are the perfect gift for any baby occasion such as baby showers, baby birthdays, and baptisms or first communion functions. First-baby gift baskets selected should be delightful to the baby as well as the parents. These baskets can have cute gifts, practical gifts, or keepsakes. Cute gifts can be soft cuddly toys and teddies and booties as well as baby clothes. Practical gifts are those with utility value such as baby cloths and toys or diapers, baby cream and powder, and other baby accessories. Keepsakes include a unique selection of gifts that the baby can keep and grow up with. Mostly, keepsake gift baskets include a silver spoon, silver picture frame, keepsake box, or a keepsake teddy. First-baby gift baskets can be designed especially for baby boys and baby girls. Adorable first-baby gift baskets for new baby boys generally have an ensemble of light blue and white gifts. Cute pink first-baby gift baskets are available for baby girls. If the gift basket is presented before the birth of the baby, then a unisex baby gift basket is certainly the best choice. A fine selection of themed first-baby gift baskets, which can be custom made for any occasion, are also available. They include a sleepy-time basket, bath-time basket, diapering-essentials basket, book basket, and toy basket. Nowadays, many shops offer a hand-picked range of exquisite first-baby gift baskets. An amazing collection of first-baby gift baskets is also available online. Rather than scouring shops in search of first-baby gift baskets, one can give homemade baskets. The great thing about giving homemade baby gift baskets is that one can combine creativity and quality while making them.

baby - First Baby Gift Baskets

The love and cheerfulness aroused by the birth of a couple's first baby is beyond measure. Giving unique first-baby gift baskets can make this occasion a special celebration. Overflowing with gifts, first-baby gift baskets are the perfect gift for any baby occasion such as baby showers, baby birthdays, and baptisms or first communion functions. First-baby gift baskets selected should be delightful to the baby as well as the parents. These baskets can have cute gifts, practical gifts, or keepsakes. Cute gifts can be soft cuddly toys and teddies and booties as well as baby clothes. Practical gifts are those with utility value such as baby cloths and toys or diapers, baby cream and powder, and other baby accessories. Keepsakes include a unique selection of gifts that the baby can keep and grow up with. Mostly, keepsake gift baskets include a silver spoon, silver picture frame, keepsake box, or a keepsake teddy. First-baby gift baskets can be designed especially for baby boys and baby girls. Adorable first-baby gift baskets for new baby boys generally have an ensemble of light blue and white gifts. Cute pink first-baby gift baskets are available for baby girls. If the gift basket is presented before the birth of the baby, then a unisex baby gift basket is certainly the best choice. A fine selection of themed first-baby gift baskets, which can be custom made for any occasion, are also available. They include a sleepy-time basket, bath-time basket, diapering-essentials basket, book basket, and toy basket. Nowadays, many shops offer a hand-picked range of exquisite first-baby gift baskets. An amazing collection of first-baby gift baskets is also available online. Rather than scouring shops in search of first-baby gift baskets, one can give homemade baskets. The great thing about giving homemade baby gift baskets is that one can combine creativity and quality while making them. Baby Baskets provides detailed information on Baby Baskets, Baby Shower Gift Baskets, Newborn Baby Gift Baskets, Unique Baby Gift Baskets and more. Baby Baskets is affiliated with Baby Dream Furniture. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough baby - 10 Things Every New Parent Needs to Know As a new mother, I found that I felt unprepared and completely off-balance during the first few weeks of motherhood. I would ask others for advice, getting a myriad of opinions (none of them the same). From my own experiences, I thought it would be appropriate for me to spread what I've learned to mothers-to-be, fathers-to-be, and new mothers and fathers. 10. While you'd like to stock everything possible into your diaper bag for your short trips, and sometimes your not-so-short trips, the bare essentials are all that's really necessary. After two weeks of carrying everything, but the kitchen sink, I compiled a list of must-haves. I now stick to that list: * Five to ten diapers (in case you forget to restock when you get home). * A full pack of travel baby wipes. * If you bottle feed, enough formula or pumped breast milk for two bottles. * If you breast feed, an additional blanket or towel for privacy (if you are going to be in a public area). * A change of clothes (weather appropriate, of course) for the baby, in case of a spit up or diaper mishap. * A change of shirt for Mom/Dad, in case of a spit up or diaper mishap. * One or two burp rags. * Two bottles. * Two pacifiers, if you use them. You may need to alter your list as your baby gets older, but for the first month or two, this should get you through trips to the grocery store, a restaurant for lunch or dinner, or a trip to a friend's house. 9. Your baby is going to be different from everyone else's baby. This means that he or she may eat more than other babies, eat less than other babies, do certain things before other babies, and do some things after other babies. None of this makes your baby any less or more talented than other babies. It only makes your baby different. 8. Sometimes babies cry for no reason at all. The only thing you can do, in this case, is to do what you know. Try changing the baby's diaper, feeding the baby, checking to see if he or she is too hot or cold, or if he or she needs to be burped. If none of those things soothes him or her, sometimes the best thing to do is try to comfort your baby. 7. In the event that you're becoming overwhelmed by a crying baby, such as the one described in number eight, it is okay to put the baby down and walk away for a few minutes. This will allow you to calm down, and may potentially help the baby to calm down. 6. You cannot be a super parent, no matter how hard you try. Babies do not come with instruction manuals (no matter how much we all wish they did), and you are going to make a mistake or two along the way. 5. Making a mistake does not make you a bad parent. Your baby is learning new things everyday. As Mommy or Daddy, you are learning about your new addition at the same time. 4. Do what you think is best for the welfare of your child. Do not let doctors, other parents, your parents, friends, or family members pressure you to make decisions about raising your child that you would not otherwise make. 3. It is okay to ask questions when you're stumped. Sometimes, the best way to learn is by asking questions. Other times, it may help you to know that you're not the only one who isn't sure about the answers. 2. It is okay to ask for help. This rule is related to number six. You cannot be a super parent, and you are not always going to be able to do everything on your own. 1. Above all else, follow your own instincts. If you receive advice from another parent or someone you trust that doesn't feel right for you, then do not follow that advice. You may doubt yourself at times, but you are the one who knows you and your baby the best. Some of these snippets of advice were given to me on the road to parenthood. Others, I had to learn on my own. You may find that you add items to this list as you go, or you may find that not everything on this list applies to you. Most importantly, use your best judgment to determine what is and isn't right for you and your baby.

baby - 10 Things Every New Parent Needs to Know

As a new mother, I found that I felt unprepared and completely off-balance during the first few weeks of motherhood. I would ask others for advice, getting a myriad of opinions (none of them the same). From my own experiences, I thought it would be appropriate for me to spread what I've learned to mothers-to-be, fathers-to-be, and new mothers and fathers. 10. While you'd like to stock everything possible into your diaper bag for your short trips, and sometimes your not-so-short trips, the bare essentials are all that's really necessary. After two weeks of carrying everything, but the kitchen sink, I compiled a list of must-haves. I now stick to that list: * Five to ten diapers (in case you forget to restock when you get home). * A full pack of travel baby wipes. * If you bottle feed, enough formula or pumped breast milk for two bottles. * If you breast feed, an additional blanket or towel for privacy (if you are going to be in a public area). * A change of clothes (weather appropriate, of course) for the baby, in case of a spit up or diaper mishap. * A change of shirt for Mom/Dad, in case of a spit up or diaper mishap. * One or two burp rags. * Two bottles. * Two pacifiers, if you use them. You may need to alter your list as your baby gets older, but for the first month or two, this should get you through trips to the grocery store, a restaurant for lunch or dinner, or a trip to a friend's house. 9. Your baby is going to be different from everyone else's baby. This means that he or she may eat more than other babies, eat less than other babies, do certain things before other babies, and do some things after other babies. None of this makes your baby any less or more talented than other babies. It only makes your baby different. 8. Sometimes babies cry for no reason at all. The only thing you can do, in this case, is to do what you know. Try changing the baby's diaper, feeding the baby, checking to see if he or she is too hot or cold, or if he or she needs to be burped. If none of those things soothes him or her, sometimes the best thing to do is try to comfort your baby. 7. In the event that you're becoming overwhelmed by a crying baby, such as the one described in number eight, it is okay to put the baby down and walk away for a few minutes. This will allow you to calm down, and may potentially help the baby to calm down. 6. You cannot be a super parent, no matter how hard you try. Babies do not come with instruction manuals (no matter how much we all wish they did), and you are going to make a mistake or two along the way. 5. Making a mistake does not make you a bad parent. Your baby is learning new things everyday. As Mommy or Daddy, you are learning about your new addition at the same time. 4. Do what you think is best for the welfare of your child. Do not let doctors, other parents, your parents, friends, or family members pressure you to make decisions about raising your child that you would not otherwise make. 3. It is okay to ask questions when you're stumped. Sometimes, the best way to learn is by asking questions. Other times, it may help you to know that you're not the only one who isn't sure about the answers. 2. It is okay to ask for help. This rule is related to number six. You cannot be a super parent, and you are not always going to be able to do everything on your own. 1. Above all else, follow your own instincts. If you receive advice from another parent or someone you trust that doesn't feel right for you, then do not follow that advice. You may doubt yourself at times, but you are the one who knows you and your baby the best. Some of these snippets of advice were given to me on the road to parenthood. Others, I had to learn on my own. You may find that you add items to this list as you go, or you may find that not everything on this list applies to you. Most importantly, use your best judgment to determine what is and isn't right for you and your baby. Melissa Williams is a wife and mother of a beautiful baby boy. She is an avid scrapbooker, card maker, crocheter, and all around creative person. She lives in Michigan, and aspires to start her own business selling handmade cards and scrapbooking services. Melissa is an author on Writing.Com (http://www.Writing.Com/) Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Williams baby - When Should Your Baby Wear Shoes? There is actually a bit of controversy about this question. Some pediatricians recommend that your baby not wear shoes until at least 15 months of age. Others feel that a child should start to wear shoes as soon as they're walking. However, you have to consider where your baby is walking. If they are cruising around your own home, then there is usually no need for shoes. But what about outdoors? Obviously you wouldn't want your child running around barefoot on cement or in the dirt. Babies should be wearing a firm shoe in this case to prevent injuries (and dirty socks). Shoes are also protection from sunburn, cold weather, scratches and bumps. Just make sure that when your baby has the opportunity to go barefoot, let them. And don't keep shoes on for too long at a time. If you do purchase outdoor shoes for your baby, make sure they fit properly. Their tiny toes should not be cramped. Also, make sure they are flexible enough that their feet can still wiggle in them. Mothers and pediatricians recommend soft soled shoes or booties. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it's for the best interest of your child. Don't make them wear shoes all the time for the sake of looking cute. Barefoot is best at home, and when they are outdoors, make sure they have a soft sole for the most natural fit.

baby - When Should Your Baby Wear Shoes?

There is actually a bit of controversy about this question. Some pediatricians recommend that your baby not wear shoes until at least 15 months of age. Others feel that a child should start to wear shoes as soon as they're walking. However, you have to consider where your baby is walking. If they are cruising around your own home, then there is usually no need for shoes. But what about outdoors? Obviously you wouldn't want your child running around barefoot on cement or in the dirt. Babies should be wearing a firm shoe in this case to prevent injuries (and dirty socks). Shoes are also protection from sunburn, cold weather, scratches and bumps. Just make sure that when your baby has the opportunity to go barefoot, let them. And don't keep shoes on for too long at a time. If you do purchase outdoor shoes for your baby, make sure they fit properly. Their tiny toes should not be cramped. Also, make sure they are flexible enough that their feet can still wiggle in them. Mothers and pediatricians recommend soft soled shoes or booties. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it's for the best interest of your child. Don't make them wear shoes all the time for the sake of looking cute. Barefoot is best at home, and when they are outdoors, make sure they have a soft sole for the most natural fit. Cassandra Germsheid is the owner of Baby Tips Online (http://www.babytipsonline.com). She is a stay at home mother but sometimes works part time for her local newspaper. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cassandra_Germsheid baby - Starting Baby on Solids At around 4-6 months of age, your infant may be ready to try solid foods. Your baby's digestive system is not developed enough to handle solid food before that. Starting solid foods sooner can increase the risk of an allergic reaction and even make it more difficult for your baby to learn to self-feed. Not sure if your baby is ready? First of all, watch your baby, not the calendar. Our daughter completely refused anything other then breast milk until about 8 months old, at which point she enthusiastically began eating everything in sight! Some tell-tale signs that will let you know your baby is ready are: ? Sitting with good head control. Your baby does not need to be able to sit unassisted, but should be able to sit while supported to be able to swallow properly. They also need to be able to keep their head steady and upright. ? Stops pushing food out of mouth with tongue. If your baby is still doing this, put away the spoon for now and try again in a few weeks. ? Eyes your food. Have you noticed your baby staring hungrily at your plate? Maybe even reaching out for the food on it? This is a major sign that they're ready to try solids. The best food to start with is rice cereal. It is mild and easy to digest. Nurse or bottle-feed your baby first, otherwise they'll be too hungry and just get frustrated. Mix a small amount of cereal with enough water, breast milk, or formula to make it the consistency of a thick soup. Put a little on the tip of a spoon and let your baby look at it and smell it. Gently put it in your baby's mouth and let them taste it. If they just let the food sit in their mouth and don't try to swallow it, they are probably not quite ready yet. If they do swallow it, try another bite. At first they may not eat much, but once they get the hang of it they will eat quite a bit. Once your baby is doing well with the rice cereal, you can start introducing other foods. As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to introduce vegetables first, and then fruit. Otherwise, your baby will be used to the sweet fruit and may not want to try the veggies. Only introduce one new food at a time, and allow 2-3 days in between each new food to make sure your baby doesn't have an allergic reaction. Don't introduce a combo food until your baby has tried each type of food in it individually. Meat should be introduced last. You should continue giving your baby breast milk and/or formula until they are a year old. Making your own baby food is an easy, healthy alternative to store bought baby food. You will have complete control over what your baby eats and you can be sure that it is fresh and free of additives. Wash the food first, and then steam it. Steaming it makes it nice and soft, but ensures the nutrients remain in the food. Once it's cooked, use a food processor or food mill to puree the food. A blender will work well at first, but since it quickly purees everything, you may want to switch to a food mill later on so you can control the texture of the food. You can make a large batch of food all at once and then freeze it for later. Ice cube trays work great, or you can also get freezer trays with lids that are specifically designed for baby food. You can store frozen baby food for up to 2 months. If you use a microwave to thaw the food, be sure to stir it well afterwards to get rid of any "hot pockets".

baby - Starting Baby on Solids

At around 4-6 months of age, your infant may be ready to try solid foods. Your baby's digestive system is not developed enough to handle solid food before that. Starting solid foods sooner can increase the risk of an allergic reaction and even make it more difficult for your baby to learn to self-feed. Not sure if your baby is ready? First of all, watch your baby, not the calendar. Our daughter completely refused anything other then breast milk until about 8 months old, at which point she enthusiastically began eating everything in sight! Some tell-tale signs that will let you know your baby is ready are: ? Sitting with good head control. Your baby does not need to be able to sit unassisted, but should be able to sit while supported to be able to swallow properly. They also need to be able to keep their head steady and upright. ? Stops pushing food out of mouth with tongue. If your baby is still doing this, put away the spoon for now and try again in a few weeks. ? Eyes your food. Have you noticed your baby staring hungrily at your plate? Maybe even reaching out for the food on it? This is a major sign that they're ready to try solids. The best food to start with is rice cereal. It is mild and easy to digest. Nurse or bottle-feed your baby first, otherwise they'll be too hungry and just get frustrated. Mix a small amount of cereal with enough water, breast milk, or formula to make it the consistency of a thick soup. Put a little on the tip of a spoon and let your baby look at it and smell it. Gently put it in your baby's mouth and let them taste it. If they just let the food sit in their mouth and don't try to swallow it, they are probably not quite ready yet. If they do swallow it, try another bite. At first they may not eat much, but once they get the hang of it they will eat quite a bit. Once your baby is doing well with the rice cereal, you can start introducing other foods. As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to introduce vegetables first, and then fruit. Otherwise, your baby will be used to the sweet fruit and may not want to try the veggies. Only introduce one new food at a time, and allow 2-3 days in between each new food to make sure your baby doesn't have an allergic reaction. Don't introduce a combo food until your baby has tried each type of food in it individually. Meat should be introduced last. You should continue giving your baby breast milk and/or formula until they are a year old. Making your own baby food is an easy, healthy alternative to store bought baby food. You will have complete control over what your baby eats and you can be sure that it is fresh and free of additives. Wash the food first, and then steam it. Steaming it makes it nice and soft, but ensures the nutrients remain in the food. Once it's cooked, use a food processor or food mill to puree the food. A blender will work well at first, but since it quickly purees everything, you may want to switch to a food mill later on so you can control the texture of the food. You can make a large batch of food all at once and then freeze it for later. Ice cube trays work great, or you can also get freezer trays with lids that are specifically designed for baby food. You can store frozen baby food for up to 2 months. If you use a microwave to thaw the food, be sure to stir it well afterwards to get rid of any "hot pockets". Danielle Burgi is the founder of babyplanetboutique, an online retailer specializing in hip, unique products for babies. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danielle_Burgi baby - Baby and Toddler - Spina Bifida It is always important to have good nutrition while you are pregnant and make sure you take your prenatal vitamins. Some birth defects may be prevented if pregnant mothers follow these rules. Spina bifida is a birth defect that may be prevented if you have enough folic acid in your diet. About one in every 2000 babies have spina bifida. Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the bones of the spine. The bones do not form properly around the spinal cord. The name spina bifida literally mean "split" or "open" spine in Latin. Spina bifida occurs during the first month of pregnancy. Sometimes before the mother even knows she is pregnant. This is why it is important to try to be in good health and eating right when you plan to become pregnant. Spina bifida happens when the two sides of the embryo's spine do not completely fuse together. There are some cases where the spinal cord may protrude through the opening that is not fused. Researchers still don't know exactly what causes spina bifida. There is evidence that suggests that genes may be involved, but in most cases there is no connection. If a woman has a high fever during pregnancy, there is an increased risk of it. Folic acid has been linked to reducing the risk of spina bifida. Taking certain drugs to control epilepsy have also been linked to a higher risk of spina bifida. It is most common for babies whose mothers are of British ancestry. A woman who already has one child with spina bifida will more likely have another one with it. There are two types of spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta and spina bifida manifesta. Spina bifida occulta is the mildest form. It is also the most common. The defect is hidden under the skin and usually does not cause any problems. There is an estimate of 10 - 20% of the general population that have this form of spina bifida and do not even know it. In these cases there are a few tell tale signs that someone may have spina bifida. These people may have a birthmark, depression, dimple or a hairy patch on the skin over where the vertebrae are affected. Spina bifida manifesta is a more severe form and a more rare form. It usually is associated with problems walking, bladder problems and coordination. This type of spina bifida can be separated into two classes, meningocele and myelomeningocele. In meningocele the fluid leaks out of the baby's spinal cord. This causes a swollen area of the spine. Myelomeningocele is when some of the spinal nerves push out of the spinal canal against the underside of the skin. The nerves are usually damaged. In the very worst cases the skin is split open as well and the nerves are exposed to the outside. Most babies who are born with this kind of spina bifida will have hydrocephalus, which is accumulation of fluid in and around the brain.

baby - Baby and Toddler - Spina Bifida

It is always important to have good nutrition while you are pregnant and make sure you take your prenatal vitamins. Some birth defects may be prevented if pregnant mothers follow these rules. Spina bifida is a birth defect that may be prevented if you have enough folic acid in your diet. About one in every 2000 babies have spina bifida. Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the bones of the spine. The bones do not form properly around the spinal cord. The name spina bifida literally mean "split" or "open" spine in Latin. Spina bifida occurs during the first month of pregnancy. Sometimes before the mother even knows she is pregnant. This is why it is important to try to be in good health and eating right when you plan to become pregnant. Spina bifida happens when the two sides of the embryo's spine do not completely fuse together. There are some cases where the spinal cord may protrude through the opening that is not fused. Researchers still don't know exactly what causes spina bifida. There is evidence that suggests that genes may be involved, but in most cases there is no connection. If a woman has a high fever during pregnancy, there is an increased risk of it. Folic acid has been linked to reducing the risk of spina bifida. Taking certain drugs to control epilepsy have also been linked to a higher risk of spina bifida. It is most common for babies whose mothers are of British ancestry. A woman who already has one child with spina bifida will more likely have another one with it. There are two types of spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta and spina bifida manifesta. Spina bifida occulta is the mildest form. It is also the most common. The defect is hidden under the skin and usually does not cause any problems. There is an estimate of 10 - 20% of the general population that have this form of spina bifida and do not even know it. In these cases there are a few tell tale signs that someone may have spina bifida. These people may have a birthmark, depression, dimple or a hairy patch on the skin over where the vertebrae are affected. Spina bifida manifesta is a more severe form and a more rare form. It usually is associated with problems walking, bladder problems and coordination. This type of spina bifida can be separated into two classes, meningocele and myelomeningocele. In meningocele the fluid leaks out of the baby's spinal cord. This causes a swollen area of the spine. Myelomeningocele is when some of the spinal nerves push out of the spinal canal against the underside of the skin. The nerves are usually damaged. In the very worst cases the skin is split open as well and the nerves are exposed to the outside. Most babies who are born with this kind of spina bifida will have hydrocephalus, which is accumulation of fluid in and around the brain. Michael Russell Your Independent Baby and Toddler guide. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell baby - Choosing the Perfect Baby Gift Looking for the perfect baby gift? Tired of seeing the 'same old thing' at every department store? Are you certain that everyone will be giving the exact gift as you? Here are some great ideas for choosing the perfect baby gift that will be remembered for years to come. Many people give baby blankets as a baby shower or newborn gift, but by giving a quality, personalized baby blanket you will make yours stand out and become a family heirloom. You can also find 'lovie blankets' with adorable stuffies attached to the blanket for baby to cuddle. If you can't decide on just one gift and you'd like to give a variety of gifts, then a baby gift basket is a great idea. They come filled with useful and decorative baby gifts in just about any theme imaginable. You can even personalize some baby gift baskets to match the baby's gender or the nursery theme the mom-to-be has picked out. There's tons of ideas for how to arrange or fill your baby gift basket. Some baby shower guests even create wonderful personal or gourmet gift baskets just for the mom or both parents to be. What a great way to show you're thinking of them and to help settle any unsteady nerves. Other good choices for baby gifts are essential items like diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion or soap, a baby tub, crib sheets etc. A new mom can never have enough of these items, and they are great when given as a big gift basket, for example by using the baby tub or baby carrier as the 'basket' and filling it with essentials. Organic or all natural baby items are also a wonderful and unique way to go in baby gift ideas. Many moms choose to use cloth diapers and will treasure the thought not to mention the gift. The most loved baby gifts are those that are given by a thoughtful friend or family member. It's not hard to find that very special baby gift. Just be creative and take your time choosing your gift. Make sure to find baby gift stores or websites where not everyone is shopping, and you're sure to find something different and unique to give. Stop and think about what the mom will need right after the baby arrives and also what they both may need in the future. Make this a special time for everyone to remember.

baby - Choosing the Perfect Baby Gift

Looking for the perfect baby gift? Tired of seeing the 'same old thing' at every department store? Are you certain that everyone will be giving the exact gift as you? Here are some great ideas for choosing the perfect baby gift that will be remembered for years to come. Many people give baby blankets as a baby shower or newborn gift, but by giving a quality, personalized baby blanket you will make yours stand out and become a family heirloom. You can also find 'lovie blankets' with adorable stuffies attached to the blanket for baby to cuddle. If you can't decide on just one gift and you'd like to give a variety of gifts, then a baby gift basket is a great idea. They come filled with useful and decorative baby gifts in just about any theme imaginable. You can even personalize some baby gift baskets to match the baby's gender or the nursery theme the mom-to-be has picked out. There's tons of ideas for how to arrange or fill your baby gift basket. Some baby shower guests even create wonderful personal or gourmet gift baskets just for the mom or both parents to be. What a great way to show you're thinking of them and to help settle any unsteady nerves. Other good choices for baby gifts are essential items like diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion or soap, a baby tub, crib sheets etc. A new mom can never have enough of these items, and they are great when given as a big gift basket, for example by using the baby tub or baby carrier as the 'basket' and filling it with essentials. Organic or all natural baby items are also a wonderful and unique way to go in baby gift ideas. Many moms choose to use cloth diapers and will treasure the thought not to mention the gift. The most loved baby gifts are those that are given by a thoughtful friend or family member. It's not hard to find that very special baby gift. Just be creative and take your time choosing your gift. Make sure to find baby gift stores or websites where not everyone is shopping, and you're sure to find something different and unique to give. Stop and think about what the mom will need right after the baby arrives and also what they both may need in the future. Make this a special time for everyone to remember. Sherry Frewerd publishes several website and blogs for affiliate marketing and direct sales promotions. Learn how to build and market your own home business and easy website at http://websitebuildingmom.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_Frewerd baby - Helpful Information On Baby Shower Gift Ideas Baby showers are thrown for the main purpose of bestowing well wishes and gifts upon a couple that is having their first child. Usually, gifts come in the form of baby items that the baby will need on its arrival. With the popularity of baby gift registries today, looking for that perfect gift that the baby will need and the couple will truly appreciate has become easy. But for those will-be parents who did not sign up for a gift registry, or if you want to choose a baby gift on your own, this list of baby shower gift ideas may truly be helpful. 1. Disposable Diapers Diapers may not be the most fancy gift to give for a baby shower. But this would definitely be the most thoughtful and most appreciated. Diapers are expensive and babies will use them up very quickly. The new parents will appreciate them. Even those parents who opt to use cloth diapers may also find disposable diapers useful when traveling. A tip when buying diapers, pick the larger size ones instead of newborn diapers. After all, babies nowadays grow very fast and the newborn-size diapers may not be useful for very long. And while you are at it, why not thrown in some baby wipes as well. 2. Bottles and Pacifiers Babies may sometimes be picky on bottles and pacifiers. Some babies prefer to use only a particular brand or shape for these items. If the parents-to-be have specified in the baby registry a brand or shape of bottles, nipples, and pacifiers, these items may be a safe choice for a baby shower gift. Otherwise, just steer clear from these baby items. To continue reading this article go now to http://www.babyshowerportal.com/Baby-Shower-Gift-Ideas.html

baby - Helpful Information On Baby Shower Gift Ideas

Baby showers are thrown for the main purpose of bestowing well wishes and gifts upon a couple that is having their first child. Usually, gifts come in the form of baby items that the baby will need on its arrival. With the popularity of baby gift registries today, looking for that perfect gift that the baby will need and the couple will truly appreciate has become easy. But for those will-be parents who did not sign up for a gift registry, or if you want to choose a baby gift on your own, this list of baby shower gift ideas may truly be helpful. 1. Disposable Diapers Diapers may not be the most fancy gift to give for a baby shower. But this would definitely be the most thoughtful and most appreciated. Diapers are expensive and babies will use them up very quickly. The new parents will appreciate them. Even those parents who opt to use cloth diapers may also find disposable diapers useful when traveling. A tip when buying diapers, pick the larger size ones instead of newborn diapers. After all, babies nowadays grow very fast and the newborn-size diapers may not be useful for very long. And while you are at it, why not thrown in some baby wipes as well. 2. Bottles and Pacifiers Babies may sometimes be picky on bottles and pacifiers. Some babies prefer to use only a particular brand or shape for these items. If the parents-to-be have specified in the baby registry a brand or shape of bottles, nipples, and pacifiers, these items may be a safe choice for a baby shower gift. Otherwise, just steer clear from these baby items. To continue reading this article go now to http://www.babyshowerportal.com/Baby-Shower-Gift-Ideas.html Learn more about how to host a baby shower by visiting Maria Frost's baby shower resource site ideas for baby showers. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maria_Frost baby - How To Choose a Baby Formula Breast milk is the most natural food for your baby, but if you can't breastfeed, or have chosen not to, then learning how to choose a baby formula is relatively simple. You might try asking the pediatrician you have chosen to care for your baby, before the actual birth. See if they have a preference of brands or composition, since baby formula should be rich in protein, fats, sugars and sodium. Most baby formula manufacturers try as hard as possible to mimic the mineral and other composition of natural breast milk. While that's not completely possible, forumulas have come a long way in the last few years, in meeting the nutritional needs of newborn and growing babies. Once you choose a baby formula that is going to meet their food and calorie requirements, you'll need to decide what type of formula will work best for your lifestyle and your budget. Most formulas will come in powder, concentrate, or ready-to-serve. Powder is the least expensive, but there is the extra work of having to mix it up prior to use. Concentrate is less cumbersome to mix, but does require that you add water. Ready to serve is there whenever you need it, but it is also the most expensive option. If you would like to balance economy and convenience, try using the powdered form and mixing a small pitcher of it, to fill a small number of bottles. The stirring motions will help to disperse bubbles that may gather as you whip up one for a hasty feeding. Just to make sure you're covered for emergencies, or when something happens that you don't have any powdered mixed, keep a couple of cans of either concentrate or ready to use on hand. That way, you can satisfy the baby as quickly as possible while eliminating some of the stress of trying to keep up with their appetite! Be sure to use these extra cans before their expiry dates.

baby - How To Choose a Baby Formula

Breast milk is the most natural food for your baby, but if you can't breastfeed, or have chosen not to, then learning how to choose a baby formula is relatively simple. You might try asking the pediatrician you have chosen to care for your baby, before the actual birth. See if they have a preference of brands or composition, since baby formula should be rich in protein, fats, sugars and sodium. Most baby formula manufacturers try as hard as possible to mimic the mineral and other composition of natural breast milk. While that's not completely possible, forumulas have come a long way in the last few years, in meeting the nutritional needs of newborn and growing babies. Once you choose a baby formula that is going to meet their food and calorie requirements, you'll need to decide what type of formula will work best for your lifestyle and your budget. Most formulas will come in powder, concentrate, or ready-to-serve. Powder is the least expensive, but there is the extra work of having to mix it up prior to use. Concentrate is less cumbersome to mix, but does require that you add water. Ready to serve is there whenever you need it, but it is also the most expensive option. If you would like to balance economy and convenience, try using the powdered form and mixing a small pitcher of it, to fill a small number of bottles. The stirring motions will help to disperse bubbles that may gather as you whip up one for a hasty feeding. Just to make sure you're covered for emergencies, or when something happens that you don't have any powdered mixed, keep a couple of cans of either concentrate or ready to use on hand. That way, you can satisfy the baby as quickly as possible while eliminating some of the stress of trying to keep up with their appetite! Be sure to use these extra cans before their expiry dates. Visit http://www.babyandtoddlerville.com and sign up for free weekly tips that will take the mystery and fear out of parenting your precious little one. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jackie_G._Maxwell baby - A New Baby Gift- Personalized Blanket Sometimes it is hard to choose that perfect baby gift. If you find yourself in this situation and want a gift that will always be remembered consider a new baby gift in the form of a personalized blanket. A new baby gift blanket that has been personalized is a wonderful gift as well as being a keepsake. This is the kind of gift that can be kept for the child as she grows up. A new baby gift that is a personalized blanket is a very special gift when given in honor of a baptism or christening. The baby's name and the date of the baptism can be embroidered onto the blanket. Check online sites for a wonderful array of personalized baby blankets. You will be amazed at the colors and designs of the blankets. You may even find matching items that can be purchased. Look for knitted baby hats or sweaters. You may be able to find a christening gown that looks beautiful with the personalized baby blanket. Don't forget to take a peek at the booties, shoes and other sweet items that can be personalized. A personalized baby blanket is a lovely baby gift that can be given at a baby shower. If you do not know if the baby will be a boy or a girl you can choose a neutral color. The baby blanket can be personalized after the baby is born. You also may choose to present a gift card that allows the parents to choose the personalized baby blanket. Choose a special new baby gift: a personalized blanket. This is a gift that will be cherished for a lifetime.

baby - A New Baby Gift- Personalized Blanket

Sometimes it is hard to choose that perfect baby gift. If you find yourself in this situation and want a gift that will always be remembered consider a new baby gift in the form of a personalized blanket. A new baby gift blanket that has been personalized is a wonderful gift as well as being a keepsake. This is the kind of gift that can be kept for the child as she grows up. A new baby gift that is a personalized blanket is a very special gift when given in honor of a baptism or christening. The baby's name and the date of the baptism can be embroidered onto the blanket. Check online sites for a wonderful array of personalized baby blankets. You will be amazed at the colors and designs of the blankets. You may even find matching items that can be purchased. Look for knitted baby hats or sweaters. You may be able to find a christening gown that looks beautiful with the personalized baby blanket. Don't forget to take a peek at the booties, shoes and other sweet items that can be personalized. A personalized baby blanket is a lovely baby gift that can be given at a baby shower. If you do not know if the baby will be a boy or a girl you can choose a neutral color. The baby blanket can be personalized after the baby is born. You also may choose to present a gift card that allows the parents to choose the personalized baby blanket. Choose a special new baby gift: a personalized blanket. This is a gift that will be cherished for a lifetime. For more information concerning baby showers please visit The Baby Shower Zone - a website that specializes inbaby shower personalized gift blankets Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Bock baby - Learning to Manage Your New Life When you're a new mother, life can seem overwhelming. Your life is full of new responsibilities, yet the old ones haven't gone away. This is a period of adjustment, so recognize it as such. Here are some ideas to help you cope with this transition period, and create the life you envision. First, set your priorities. There will be many days when you just can't get everything done, so know in advance which things carry the most importance. Care of your baby is, of course, the first priority, and in order to do that, you may have to let some things slide. But, each of us is different, and so is our tolerance of leaving things undone. For instance, I have three children, and I hate it when we resort to feeding them fast food. So, cooking a good dinner has always been a priority for me. In order to do this, some days the house is a wreck, but feeding my family a healthy dinner is more important to me than seeing that all the toys are put away. You need to decide what works for you personally. Secondly, ask for help when you need it. Very often, people are very willing to help, but they're not sure what to do. Tell your husband what chores he could take over for you that would have the most impact. Do you have older children that are old enough to take over more household responsibility? Mothers are notorious for doing things for their children that the kids are perfectly capable of handling. Not only will assigning chores to your children help you out, it will also teach them some valuable lessons in responsibility. Next, be sure to network with other women in your situation. If you're staying home, find other stay at home moms to socialize with and swap babysitting. If you're a working mom, get to know other working moms and spend some time with them. Talking to other women who have the same issues can keep you sane! Finally, take time for yourself. All you will accomplish by working yourself nonstop is fatigue. Be sure to get away from your duties as a Mom to do some of the things you enjoyed before you had children. Go on dates with your husband, and hang out with your girlfriends. Continue to pursue your hobbies, or get some new ones. Being a Mom does change your life, but it doesn't have to take over your life.

baby - Learning to Manage Your New Life

When you're a new mother, life can seem overwhelming. Your life is full of new responsibilities, yet the old ones haven't gone away. This is a period of adjustment, so recognize it as such. Here are some ideas to help you cope with this transition period, and create the life you envision. First, set your priorities. There will be many days when you just can't get everything done, so know in advance which things carry the most importance. Care of your baby is, of course, the first priority, and in order to do that, you may have to let some things slide. But, each of us is different, and so is our tolerance of leaving things undone. For instance, I have three children, and I hate it when we resort to feeding them fast food. So, cooking a good dinner has always been a priority for me. In order to do this, some days the house is a wreck, but feeding my family a healthy dinner is more important to me than seeing that all the toys are put away. You need to decide what works for you personally. Secondly, ask for help when you need it. Very often, people are very willing to help, but they're not sure what to do. Tell your husband what chores he could take over for you that would have the most impact. Do you have older children that are old enough to take over more household responsibility? Mothers are notorious for doing things for their children that the kids are perfectly capable of handling. Not only will assigning chores to your children help you out, it will also teach them some valuable lessons in responsibility. Next, be sure to network with other women in your situation. If you're staying home, find other stay at home moms to socialize with and swap babysitting. If you're a working mom, get to know other working moms and spend some time with them. Talking to other women who have the same issues can keep you sane! Finally, take time for yourself. All you will accomplish by working yourself nonstop is fatigue. Be sure to get away from your duties as a Mom to do some of the things you enjoyed before you had children. Go on dates with your husband, and hang out with your girlfriends. Continue to pursue your hobbies, or get some new ones. Being a Mom does change your life, but it doesn't have to take over your life. Sarah is a 41 year old wife and mother of two boys and one girl. She spent many years as a manager in the corporate world, and gave it up to be a stay at home mom. Go to http://www.infantresources.com now and get her incredible baby minicourse - absolutely free. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Veda baby - Coaching VS. Psychotherapy: What's The Difference? With the emerging global community and an internet presence even in remote jungles and mountain villages, we all live in an age of exponential changes. It is no surprise that there has been a corresponding pressure on the psyches and equilibriums of just about every living human being. In response to that pressure, the field of psychotherapy has grown itself up, from the seemingly narrow minded Victorian context of Freudian analysis to more recent scientific advances in mapping brain function. Techniques have ranged from passive and remote interpretation to more active interventions such as EMDR and DBT. Baby boomers have played a large role in turning psychotherapy into a household word; a term reserved not just for the mentally ill, but also for the "worried well". And managed care has capitalized further by applying the medical, disease-based model onto the practice, requiring any and all users of health insurance to declare a diagnosis worthy of treatment. That is to say, it is a model of treatment provided by licensed and credentialed practitioners who must authorize and frequently request sessions through a complicated and laborious set of rules in order to be reimbursed'and only then, at a discounted rate. Because of this co-opting by the managed care industry, psychotherapy has become a practice relegated to those clinicians who oftentimes do not charge "full fare" and only see clients within the insurance industry. This climate of medically based, devalued care has therefore spawned a whole new breed of helping professionals' executive coaches, life coaches, or personal coaches. So what are they really? And how are they different from psychotherapists? What do they offer and who can they help? Perhaps the easiest way to explain this is by way of example. Let's consider a typical presenting problem, but taken from the two different perspectives. Amy is a 50 year old mother of 3, one of whom is in college and the other two in high school. Married 25 years and a part time executive assistant at a local widgets factory, she has begun to feel bored, antsy, sometimes irritable and a bit lost. It's not that she is unhappily married really, or that she doesn't like her job really, or that she is fed up with the adolescent attitudes of her 3 kids. She doesn't feel depressed, in the sense that her appetite is off, or her concentration impaired. It's true that she has put on a few pounds lately, and she tends to forget things more often, and her moods are not exactly happy. She just doesn't feel good; she literally doesn't know what to do with herself anymore, and so she asks friends and her minister for referrals. If Amy made an appointment with a psychotherapist, she would have presented her insurance card, called for an authorization herself, and paid a copay of $10 to $25. Upon intake, she would have been directed through a series of questions aimed at uncovering the source of her unhappiness, delving into early childhood memories of outstanding events, achievements, losses, and traumas. She would also recount the details and qualities of her relationships with her parents and her siblings, significant caretakers and significant others. Over the ensuing weeks, she would have begun dwelling on the pain of her past and the possible ways that such pain, if repressed all these years, might be affecting her now. Through awareness and abreaction, a breakthrough of raw and intense emotion, she would begin to integrate previously split off aspects of herself and her memories. Amy also discovered that her therapist had applied a diagnosis of adjustment reaction with mixed emotional features, which, after six months became dysthymic disorder, a milder form of clinical depression. In many ways there is overlap in the different approaches to this client, especially when a therapist, like myself makes the transition to life coaching. As a coach, I also would want to know the details of her upbringing, but with more of a focus on what has "worked" rather than on what hasn't. Rather than charting her life in terms of a genogram (a graphic tool used by therapists to illustrate the relationships and dynamics among nuclear and extended family members), I would help Amy create a life balance wheel or mandala (a graphic tool used by coaches to illustrate core values and beliefs, and the ways they are manifested in various relationships to one's environment). We would focus on her future goals as related to being an empty nester, and in terms of her career, her spirituality, her marriage and her friends. As a therapist these things would also be discussed, but with more of an eye to the past, and the ways that previously unresolved psychological conflicts might be blocking her from feeling happy. Instead of meeting weekly for 50 minutes with the onus of responsibility on the client to produce "material" for the therapist to listen to, and respond when indicated, the coach would give assignments based on a careful listening to the client's stated goals. The work with a coach could be done in person or over the phone, with between-session email and brief phone contact. With a coach the power is more equalized and the relationship a partnership. In therapy, it still carries the mantle of one up, one down, expert and client, doctor and patient. Overcoming blocks would be a major focus of both approaches. With psychotherapy it is more emotion based, however; "working through" or peeling away layers of the onion, so to speak. In coaching it could be accomplished by finding a way to make the block useful, or at least recognized as a weak link (like in a team) that needs to be tamed and supported in order to act effectively. Obviously many therapists already employ many of these coaching techniques in their practices. Indeed, Internal Family Systems Therapy, is one school which actively engages the client to embrace and integrate various aspects of self, as opposed to letting go, or working through and leaving them behind. No matter what, being coached by a professional already trained in psychotherapeutic techniques, can add a richness and depth to the work, and an outcome that allows for true happiness and success outside of the managed care industry, and relevant to the emerging global community.

baby - Coaching VS. Psychotherapy: What's The Difference?

With the emerging global community and an internet presence even in remote jungles and mountain villages, we all live in an age of exponential changes. It is no surprise that there has been a corresponding pressure on the psyches and equilibriums of just about every living human being. In response to that pressure, the field of psychotherapy has grown itself up, from the seemingly narrow minded Victorian context of Freudian analysis to more recent scientific advances in mapping brain function. Techniques have ranged from passive and remote interpretation to more active interventions such as EMDR and DBT. Baby boomers have played a large role in turning psychotherapy into a household word; a term reserved not just for the mentally ill, but also for the "worried well". And managed care has capitalized further by applying the medical, disease-based model onto the practice, requiring any and all users of health insurance to declare a diagnosis worthy of treatment. That is to say, it is a model of treatment provided by licensed and credentialed practitioners who must authorize and frequently request sessions through a complicated and laborious set of rules in order to be reimbursed'and only then, at a discounted rate. Because of this co-opting by the managed care industry, psychotherapy has become a practice relegated to those clinicians who oftentimes do not charge "full fare" and only see clients within the insurance industry. This climate of medically based, devalued care has therefore spawned a whole new breed of helping professionals' executive coaches, life coaches, or personal coaches. So what are they really? And how are they different from psychotherapists? What do they offer and who can they help? Perhaps the easiest way to explain this is by way of example. Let's consider a typical presenting problem, but taken from the two different perspectives. Amy is a 50 year old mother of 3, one of whom is in college and the other two in high school. Married 25 years and a part time executive assistant at a local widgets factory, she has begun to feel bored, antsy, sometimes irritable and a bit lost. It's not that she is unhappily married really, or that she doesn't like her job really, or that she is fed up with the adolescent attitudes of her 3 kids. She doesn't feel depressed, in the sense that her appetite is off, or her concentration impaired. It's true that she has put on a few pounds lately, and she tends to forget things more often, and her moods are not exactly happy. She just doesn't feel good; she literally doesn't know what to do with herself anymore, and so she asks friends and her minister for referrals. If Amy made an appointment with a psychotherapist, she would have presented her insurance card, called for an authorization herself, and paid a copay of $10 to $25. Upon intake, she would have been directed through a series of questions aimed at uncovering the source of her unhappiness, delving into early childhood memories of outstanding events, achievements, losses, and traumas. She would also recount the details and qualities of her relationships with her parents and her siblings, significant caretakers and significant others. Over the ensuing weeks, she would have begun dwelling on the pain of her past and the possible ways that such pain, if repressed all these years, might be affecting her now. Through awareness and abreaction, a breakthrough of raw and intense emotion, she would begin to integrate previously split off aspects of herself and her memories. Amy also discovered that her therapist had applied a diagnosis of adjustment reaction with mixed emotional features, which, after six months became dysthymic disorder, a milder form of clinical depression. In many ways there is overlap in the different approaches to this client, especially when a therapist, like myself makes the transition to life coaching. As a coach, I also would want to know the details of her upbringing, but with more of a focus on what has "worked" rather than on what hasn't. Rather than charting her life in terms of a genogram (a graphic tool used by therapists to illustrate the relationships and dynamics among nuclear and extended family members), I would help Amy create a life balance wheel or mandala (a graphic tool used by coaches to illustrate core values and beliefs, and the ways they are manifested in various relationships to one's environment). We would focus on her future goals as related to being an empty nester, and in terms of her career, her spirituality, her marriage and her friends. As a therapist these things would also be discussed, but with more of an eye to the past, and the ways that previously unresolved psychological conflicts might be blocking her from feeling happy. Instead of meeting weekly for 50 minutes with the onus of responsibility on the client to produce "material" for the therapist to listen to, and respond when indicated, the coach would give assignments based on a careful listening to the client's stated goals. The work with a coach could be done in person or over the phone, with between-session email and brief phone contact. With a coach the power is more equalized and the relationship a partnership. In therapy, it still carries the mantle of one up, one down, expert and client, doctor and patient. Overcoming blocks would be a major focus of both approaches. With psychotherapy it is more emotion based, however; "working through" or peeling away layers of the onion, so to speak. In coaching it could be accomplished by finding a way to make the block useful, or at least recognized as a weak link (like in a team) that needs to be tamed and supported in order to act effectively. Obviously many therapists already employ many of these coaching techniques in their practices. Indeed, Internal Family Systems Therapy, is one school which actively engages the client to embrace and integrate various aspects of self, as opposed to letting go, or working through and leaving them behind. No matter what, being coached by a professional already trained in psychotherapeutic techniques, can add a richness and depth to the work, and an outcome that allows for true happiness and success outside of the managed care industry, and relevant to the emerging global community. Rebecca Morgan is a licensed psychotherapist and coach-in-training. Her website, http://www.boomer-consumer.com, is dedicated to improving quality of midlife issues, through coaching and education, for baby boomers. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_N_Morgan baby - When To Start Teaching Your Baby (1) When is it that I should start teaching my baby? That is a question that may come to mind for many first time parents; other parents may never consider the question at all, and just leave things to evolve naturally. In a way, that is an unnecessary question as, whether you like it or not and whether you mean to or not, you begin teaching your baby while it is still in the womb, and then continue through its early years, teenage years, and even into adulthood. So, perhaps it is better to rephrase that question slightly to "when should I consciously start teaching my baby?" Even with the rephrased question, the answer is the same: while the baby is in the womb. How can that be? While the baby is in the womb it starts to learn about its environment after about six months of pregnancy, when it is capable of hearing external sounds. Of course, it is aware of its internal environment earlier than that, but there is little you can do to enhance that. But when it comes to the external environment, you are in a position to have some influence even from that early stage of development. What Can You Teach Your Baby In The Womb? With the baby in the womb there is clearly a very limited scope for teaching as such. However, you can provide additional stimulation that will form an important part of their learning at that stage. You can provide many hints as to what the outside environment is like, in a way that sets a good foundation for their feeling of love and security. The main external awareness of a baby in the womb is sound. If you can make the external sounds comforting and welcoming then that will help the baby more than you may think. Music is a proven stimulation to babies, especially classical music; a daily dose of Mozart will stimulate the baby's brain and senses. With any luck, they will become a musical talent, but that is not an issue at this stage of their development. You do not, of course, have to restrict her to classical music. Whatever music you like, just turn the volume up a bit more than usual to ensure she hears it. The sound will be muffled, but by the time baby is born, she will be used to your musical tastes. Your aim should be to make the outside environment familiar to the baby. Most of that will happen naturally, and she will become used to the daily sounds, such as vacuum cleaner, liquidizer, lawnmower and other domestic noises that are penetrating. Our baby daughter was born in the Philippines, where our usual form of transport is a tricycle. I do not think it a coincidence that, once she was born, she was contented with the noise of a tricycle; and they are noisy here, I assure you, especially outside the womb! However noisy the tricycle, she would always be asleep within a minute or two, and even now at 20 months is particularly relaxed on a deafening tricycle. If you want to insist on having a most important sound in the womb, then it must be the voices of the parents. Getting to know the voice of mum and dad will come naturally, but dad especially can get up close and talk to the baby in the womb. It will not talk back of course, but you can rest assured, if she is awake, she will be intrigued by your up close and personal voice. It is something I did every evening with Saffron. That also had the effect of keeping her awake as long as possible during the evening, so she was less restless at night. That can be very helpful for mum to get a good night's sleep. Another external stimulation which I never learnt about for my now grown up children, and that is light. This can be even more useful for keeping baby awake in the evening. If you take a powerful flashlight, switch it on, and hold it close to mum's tummy, the baby in the womb will respond to it. I must say I thought it a silly idea, until the then unborn Saffron started moving every time the light was switched on. So, the flashlight became another tool in the "keep baby awake in the evening" campaign to stop mum being kicked so much during the night. Maybe Saffron did not appreciate my "keep her awake" tactics. She was probably wondering "who is this guy keeping me awake all the time; doesn't he realise I want to get some sleep?" However, she does seem to have done well on it. She has slept like a log all night, every night apart from one, since she was just a few months' old. The odd night? Apparently, a bad dream at 11 pm. A quick cuddle and words of reassurance, and she was back to sleep again. Whether that has any connection to her in-the-womb experiences, I cannot say for sure. But I will definitely be using the same tactics again next time, if we are blessed with a baby sister or brother for her.

baby - When To Start Teaching Your Baby (1)

When is it that I should start teaching my baby? That is a question that may come to mind for many first time parents; other parents may never consider the question at all, and just leave things to evolve naturally. In a way, that is an unnecessary question as, whether you like it or not and whether you mean to or not, you begin teaching your baby while it is still in the womb, and then continue through its early years, teenage years, and even into adulthood. So, perhaps it is better to rephrase that question slightly to "when should I consciously start teaching my baby?" Even with the rephrased question, the answer is the same: while the baby is in the womb. How can that be? While the baby is in the womb it starts to learn about its environment after about six months of pregnancy, when it is capable of hearing external sounds. Of course, it is aware of its internal environment earlier than that, but there is little you can do to enhance that. But when it comes to the external environment, you are in a position to have some influence even from that early stage of development. What Can You Teach Your Baby In The Womb? With the baby in the womb there is clearly a very limited scope for teaching as such. However, you can provide additional stimulation that will form an important part of their learning at that stage. You can provide many hints as to what the outside environment is like, in a way that sets a good foundation for their feeling of love and security. The main external awareness of a baby in the womb is sound. If you can make the external sounds comforting and welcoming then that will help the baby more than you may think. Music is a proven stimulation to babies, especially classical music; a daily dose of Mozart will stimulate the baby's brain and senses. With any luck, they will become a musical talent, but that is not an issue at this stage of their development. You do not, of course, have to restrict her to classical music. Whatever music you like, just turn the volume up a bit more than usual to ensure she hears it. The sound will be muffled, but by the time baby is born, she will be used to your musical tastes. Your aim should be to make the outside environment familiar to the baby. Most of that will happen naturally, and she will become used to the daily sounds, such as vacuum cleaner, liquidizer, lawnmower and other domestic noises that are penetrating. Our baby daughter was born in the Philippines, where our usual form of transport is a tricycle. I do not think it a coincidence that, once she was born, she was contented with the noise of a tricycle; and they are noisy here, I assure you, especially outside the womb! However noisy the tricycle, she would always be asleep within a minute or two, and even now at 20 months is particularly relaxed on a deafening tricycle. If you want to insist on having a most important sound in the womb, then it must be the voices of the parents. Getting to know the voice of mum and dad will come naturally, but dad especially can get up close and talk to the baby in the womb. It will not talk back of course, but you can rest assured, if she is awake, she will be intrigued by your up close and personal voice. It is something I did every evening with Saffron. That also had the effect of keeping her awake as long as possible during the evening, so she was less restless at night. That can be very helpful for mum to get a good night's sleep. Another external stimulation which I never learnt about for my now grown up children, and that is light. This can be even more useful for keeping baby awake in the evening. If you take a powerful flashlight, switch it on, and hold it close to mum's tummy, the baby in the womb will respond to it. I must say I thought it a silly idea, until the then unborn Saffron started moving every time the light was switched on. So, the flashlight became another tool in the "keep baby awake in the evening" campaign to stop mum being kicked so much during the night. Maybe Saffron did not appreciate my "keep her awake" tactics. She was probably wondering "who is this guy keeping me awake all the time; doesn't he realise I want to get some sleep?" However, she does seem to have done well on it. She has slept like a log all night, every night apart from one, since she was just a few months' old. The odd night? Apparently, a bad dream at 11 pm. A quick cuddle and words of reassurance, and she was back to sleep again. Whether that has any connection to her in-the-womb experiences, I cannot say for sure. But I will definitely be using the same tactics again next time, if we are blessed with a baby sister or brother for her. This teaching baby article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the Bouncing New Baby website. Ably assisted by his baby daughter, he is also responsible for the Baby Blog Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Thomsitt baby - Parenting: How to Help Your Firstborn Become Friends with the New Baby It's normal for a firstborn child to feel upset and unwanted when a new baby arrives. He or she is used to being the only child and had the family's complete attention so far. So when your second bundle of joy arrives, he can easily feel jealous because he sees a most of the attention going to the new arrival. Remember that the big brother or sister will need plenty of attention when the new baby arrives. He or she may not be able to articulate his need for a hug or to sit in your lap. All the same, his needs do not diminish just because there's a new baby in the house. The older child needs reassurance that he is still loved and important enough to warrant time and attention. He may equate time with love. A new baby will naturally take up more of your time and energy, but it is often difficult for an older child to accept that. Some children regress to earlier behaviors like thumb-sucking or wanting to drink from a bottle. These behaviors remind him of an earlier time with life was more comfortable and secure. Here are 10 things you can do to make it easier for the older child to get over his frustrations and become friends with the new baby. #1. Before the baby arrives, paint a realistic picture of what it will be like with the baby. Tell him about the endless diaper changes, night-time crying, need for sleep, etc. Let the older child know that the new baby won't be a playmate or a friend for a long time. #2. Involve the big brother or sister in preparing for and helping out with the baby. For example, ask for his opinion on whether you should buy the feeding bottle with the trains on it or cats on it. #3. Make sure you find time to spend with the older child. This could be when the baby's sleeping, or when someone else is looking after her. Do the things you used to do with the older child before the baby came -- reading stories, playing with toys, etc. #4. Request friends and family who drop in to see the baby to visit with the older child first. #5. If it is possible, suggest to friends that a small gift for the firstborn would be appreciated when they bring gifts for the baby. Now, it may not always be appropriate to make this suggestion. If so, keep small toys or other gifts handy to give the child when baby receives a new gift. At this stage, don't worry about teaching the child that he won't get a gift every time someone else does. That can come later. #6. If your firstborn reverts to earlier behaviors, take it as a signal that he needs more attention. Don't pay attention to his regressive behaviors, though. #7. Let the older child participate with you to a small extent in taking care of the baby. For example, he could start up a crib mobile, or could offer a pacifier to the baby. #8. Allow the big brother / sister to hold and cuddle the baby, under close supervision. #9. Give the firstborn a 'baby' of her own to play with, dress, feed, etc. #10. The older child may express some of his frustrations to you. He can't sleep because the baby cries too much, or he doesn't get to spend time with mommy, etc. Empathize with him. Let him know that you share his frustrations and feel the same way. Use these simple suggestions and watch your firstborn get over his frustrations more easily and become friends with the new baby.

baby - Parenting: How to Help Your Firstborn Become Friends with the New Baby

It's normal for a firstborn child to feel upset and unwanted when a new baby arrives. He or she is used to being the only child and had the family's complete attention so far. So when your second bundle of joy arrives, he can easily feel jealous because he sees a most of the attention going to the new arrival. Remember that the big brother or sister will need plenty of attention when the new baby arrives. He or she may not be able to articulate his need for a hug or to sit in your lap. All the same, his needs do not diminish just because there's a new baby in the house. The older child needs reassurance that he is still loved and important enough to warrant time and attention. He may equate time with love. A new baby will naturally take up more of your time and energy, but it is often difficult for an older child to accept that. Some children regress to earlier behaviors like thumb-sucking or wanting to drink from a bottle. These behaviors remind him of an earlier time with life was more comfortable and secure. Here are 10 things you can do to make it easier for the older child to get over his frustrations and become friends with the new baby. #1. Before the baby arrives, paint a realistic picture of what it will be like with the baby. Tell him about the endless diaper changes, night-time crying, need for sleep, etc. Let the older child know that the new baby won't be a playmate or a friend for a long time. #2. Involve the big brother or sister in preparing for and helping out with the baby. For example, ask for his opinion on whether you should buy the feeding bottle with the trains on it or cats on it. #3. Make sure you find time to spend with the older child. This could be when the baby's sleeping, or when someone else is looking after her. Do the things you used to do with the older child before the baby came -- reading stories, playing with toys, etc. #4. Request friends and family who drop in to see the baby to visit with the older child first. #5. If it is possible, suggest to friends that a small gift for the firstborn would be appreciated when they bring gifts for the baby. Now, it may not always be appropriate to make this suggestion. If so, keep small toys or other gifts handy to give the child when baby receives a new gift. At this stage, don't worry about teaching the child that he won't get a gift every time someone else does. That can come later. #6. If your firstborn reverts to earlier behaviors, take it as a signal that he needs more attention. Don't pay attention to his regressive behaviors, though. #7. Let the older child participate with you to a small extent in taking care of the baby. For example, he could start up a crib mobile, or could offer a pacifier to the baby. #8. Allow the big brother / sister to hold and cuddle the baby, under close supervision. #9. Give the firstborn a 'baby' of her own to play with, dress, feed, etc. #10. The older child may express some of his frustrations to you. He can't sleep because the baby cries too much, or he doesn't get to spend time with mommy, etc. Empathize with him. Let him know that you share his frustrations and feel the same way. Use these simple suggestions and watch your firstborn get over his frustrations more easily and become friends with the new baby. Peter Andrews is a successful author and has written extensively on parenting. His articles cover tips about parenting, useful advice for new parents, effective baby care ideas and more. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Andrews baby - Parenting: How to Help Your Firstborn Become Friends with the New Baby It's normal for a firstborn child to feel upset and unwanted when a new baby arrives. He or she is used to being the only child and had the family's complete attention so far. So when your second bundle of joy arrives, he can easily feel jealous because he sees a most of the attention going to the new arrival. Remember that the big brother or sister will need plenty of attention when the new baby arrives. He or she may not be able to articulate his need for a hug or to sit in your lap. All the same, his needs do not diminish just because there's a new baby in the house. The older child needs reassurance that he is still loved and important enough to warrant time and attention. He may equate time with love. A new baby will naturally take up more of your time and energy, but it is often difficult for an older child to accept that. Some children regress to earlier behaviors like thumb-sucking or wanting to drink from a bottle. These behaviors remind him of an earlier time with life was more comfortable and secure. Here are 10 things you can do to make it easier for the older child to get over his frustrations and become friends with the new baby. #1. Before the baby arrives, paint a realistic picture of what it will be like with the baby. Tell him about the endless diaper changes, night-time crying, need for sleep, etc. Let the older child know that the new baby won't be a playmate or a friend for a long time. #2. Involve the big brother or sister in preparing for and helping out with the baby. For example, ask for his opinion on whether you should buy the feeding bottle with the trains on it or cats on it. #3. Make sure you find time to spend with the older child. This could be when the baby's sleeping, or when someone else is looking after her. Do the things you used to do with the older child before the baby came -- reading stories, playing with toys, etc. #4. Request friends and family who drop in to see the baby to visit with the older child first. #5. If it is possible, suggest to friends that a small gift for the firstborn would be appreciated when they bring gifts for the baby. Now, it may not always be appropriate to make this suggestion. If so, keep small toys or other gifts handy to give the child when baby receives a new gift. At this stage, don't worry about teaching the child that he won't get a gift every time someone else does. That can come later. #6. If your firstborn reverts to earlier behaviors, take it as a signal that he needs more attention. Don't pay attention to his regressive behaviors, though. #7. Let the older child participate with you to a small extent in taking care of the baby. For example, he could start up a crib mobile, or could offer a pacifier to the baby. #8. Allow the big brother / sister to hold and cuddle the baby, under close supervision. #9. Give the firstborn a 'baby' of her own to play with, dress, feed, etc. #10. The older child may express some of his frustrations to you. He can't sleep because the baby cries too much, or he doesn't get to spend time with mommy, etc. Empathize with him. Let him know that you share his frustrations and feel the same way. Use these simple suggestions and watch your firstborn get over his frustrations more easily and become friends with the new baby.