Showing posts with label newborn. Show all posts
Showing posts with label newborn. Show all posts
Common Health Problems Babies Have - Personal Experience
Every baby that I gave birth to had their share of common baby health problems. If anyone says, "My baby never had any problems." Simply put, they either forgot or are in denial so as to appear like they had the perfect baby. The word "problems" sounds negative and no parent wants anyone to think that their baby had any health problems. Whether minor issues or major problems, babies aren't like those ones who appear on television always smiling while lying peacefully on their backs moving their legs around and wiggling their toes. Crying is inevitable and when babies cry they are telling anyone around, "I have a problem and I need you to solve it."
I had four sons and each one had one problem that stood out and needed to be addressed. Their baby health problems were temporal and didn't last long. However, I noticed that there were more health woes the first two had who were born on the east coast as compared to my other two who were born on the west coast. The climate did play a part in their bodily changes. For instance, with the first two I was concerned about bringing them out in cold weather and the other two I was cautious about taking them out in the year round sun for long. Each one had their share of colds, coughs, fever, and vomiting depending on what the cause might have been.
1) Colds
I found that they had less colds as babies, but all had more colds once they got outdoors more often and were around other children particularly in daycare and school. Us parents also got more colds too when they were old enough to attend school. We treated their colds with baby over-the-counter medicines. However, when symptoms lingered such as a bad cough or a fever that didn't seem to go away, off to the doctor's we went to get a prescription. Humidifiers were common in our household. They helped with stuffy noses and the dry air in the winter time produced from the furnace.
2) Coughs
These showed up due to seasonal changes and sometimes lingered during and after a cold. I also noticed that if they were around smokers, they would cough more. This is why their father and I didn't let them visit relatives who smoked frequently. Even though they would go in another room or outside to smoke, the children were still negatively impacted by the smoke traveling throughout the vents and window screens of their homes. We rubbed babies' chests with vapor rub made for babies. We used humidifiers and air purifiers just in case the coughs were also occurring due to any environmental allergies.
3) Fever
Sometimes vaccinations caused a mild fever, other times they might have been dressed too warmly or out in the hot sun too long. A cold, pneumonia, sore throat or ear infection would also bring on a fever. Out of all of my sons, one had a serious health problem related to fevers when he was a toddler. His fevers would cause seizures. I talked about fibral seizures on this blog. This would happen unexpectedly at least a few times a year until he was five. He had been seen by doctors and his father and I were instructed on what to do when this would happen. We would remove his clothes down to his undergarments, place a cold ice pack on his forehead, and give him infant Tylenol to bring down his fever. The other boys rarely had fevers as babies, but when they did, children's infant and children's Tylenol were always in the medicine cabinet along with a thermometer that would be placed under their arms to get their temperatures. Sometimes there were warning signs with all the boys that something was different about them prior to us discovering they had fevers such as: not being as active, sleeping more, frequent whining, bodies were warmer than usual, and their foreheads would perspire.
4) Vomiting
When the babies vomited it usually involved something they ate. Starting a new food, new formula or when they started table food was typically the culprit. I also was very guarded about people holding my baby, because I saw how other parents handled their babies such as bouncing them or tossing them up into the air. I also saw when those babies would end up throwing up later too. When one of my sons were a toddler, he suffered due to pizza he ate earlier while healing from a cold. His stomach wasn't quite ready for the red sauce. Another boy experienced the same thing as a toddler. We learned as they are healing from colds better to serve light meals rather than the typical favorite foods. After the babies vomited we kept them upright, because just in case they vomited again we didn't want them to choke on it while lying down. We gave them water or Pedialyte once they settled down.
There were more things we did when they experienced the above. The medical websites were our go to and we spent time putting in key phrases in the search engine like, "what to do when a baby..." We now have a tween, a teen, a high school graduate, and a twenty-something young man now. All of the boys are doing well. I strongly believe how you care for the babies early on in life has a lot to do with how healthy they will be as they get older. Healthy meals, exercise, vitamins, and being cautious who the babies are around will make a difference and will lessen some of these common baby problems.
The Newborn Brought Out the Best and the Worst in My Family
Cute and cuddly, I was holding a precious life in my hands. Little did I know just how much would change in a matter of weeks in my own family. Relatives were not always behaving themselves. Negative comments were thrown around about who would see the child, how long, and whether others would do anything for the new baby.
The journey of not only parenting a newborn was well underway, but so too was the mean-spirited behavior of some in-laws turned outlaws had showed and showed out! There was possessive grandmother, jealous grandmother, controlling grandfather, and lazy grandfather. Once in awhile someone had time and money for their grandchild while others didn't and then another would step it up and the cycle would continue. It was like they were taking turns on being nice one minute and uncooperative the next.
With the tension in the air and the know-it-all attitudes all around, my relationship with the father suffered. I grew fed up early on with relatives. I was already tired often, felt the emotional and financial strain, and the lack of support from the father was pissing me off on a regular basis. He behaved like a single man rather than a family man. It wasn't until almost a decade later that he finally got it and by that time we had divorced.
I also experienced post-partum that didn't last just a week, I was depressed, sad, and sometimes emotionally withdrawn from everyone on and off for about a year. The phone was irritating, the baby's crying drove me up the wall, the household tasks were mounting, and my bank account was draining. No one or book could prepare me for the years of challenges ahead raising a child.
That baby turned out to be a light that exposed the dysfunction back then among so many. A dysfunction that I didn't want to see. I got to see sides of relatives that I suspected existed, but having that baby amplified them. I didn't want him to experience what I had experienced growing up and worked hard to keep him away from any foolishness.
As he grew older, he had his own personal challenges and not always did we adults understand or was all that supportive. For me, I had to do much praying and trust God that He knew what he was doing.
When I relocated, against my own parents wishes, it was tough. We all had some growing up to do. I knew I had to be independent and learn some things about life on my own just as they did. I found that I could parent without needing a babysitter, relying on family materially and emotionally, and loving who I was as a mother without watchful eyes.
These days that child is now 20 years old--a grown man! He is living in a nice location, driving a 2017 Jeep, and carrying two jobs that he enjoys. He prays nightly and whenever I talk to him he motivates me to live my best life! He tells me, "Don't worry about me, I will be fine!"
When I looked back on how the baby rocked my world and those around me at the time, I also understand why. He was a gift. A child that would grow up to be one of the good ones. It isn't easy raising any child, but a child of God is something special.
So I encourage every parent who is expecting a child or has a newborn, think ahead--years ahead! What do you want for your child and for you? What type of influences do you want your child to be exposed to? Are you respected, loved and appreciated in your own family? Will you provide those things for your own child?
Imagine your child grown able to encourage and help you one day, it was motivating for me during some tough times. I had to walk out of the room, breathe and tell myself, "It won't always be like this." I picked up the phone and called those same people who had their share of issues with me getting pregnant in the first place. I gave them an opportunity to be a part of our lives and for a time they were. But I had, had enough and realized that I wanted more for my family that didn't involve pettiness and controlling behaviors.
Your baby is a gift, enjoy him or her while you still can.
Nicholl McGuire
The journey of not only parenting a newborn was well underway, but so too was the mean-spirited behavior of some in-laws turned outlaws had showed and showed out! There was possessive grandmother, jealous grandmother, controlling grandfather, and lazy grandfather. Once in awhile someone had time and money for their grandchild while others didn't and then another would step it up and the cycle would continue. It was like they were taking turns on being nice one minute and uncooperative the next.
With the tension in the air and the know-it-all attitudes all around, my relationship with the father suffered. I grew fed up early on with relatives. I was already tired often, felt the emotional and financial strain, and the lack of support from the father was pissing me off on a regular basis. He behaved like a single man rather than a family man. It wasn't until almost a decade later that he finally got it and by that time we had divorced.
I also experienced post-partum that didn't last just a week, I was depressed, sad, and sometimes emotionally withdrawn from everyone on and off for about a year. The phone was irritating, the baby's crying drove me up the wall, the household tasks were mounting, and my bank account was draining. No one or book could prepare me for the years of challenges ahead raising a child.
That baby turned out to be a light that exposed the dysfunction back then among so many. A dysfunction that I didn't want to see. I got to see sides of relatives that I suspected existed, but having that baby amplified them. I didn't want him to experience what I had experienced growing up and worked hard to keep him away from any foolishness.
As he grew older, he had his own personal challenges and not always did we adults understand or was all that supportive. For me, I had to do much praying and trust God that He knew what he was doing.
When I relocated, against my own parents wishes, it was tough. We all had some growing up to do. I knew I had to be independent and learn some things about life on my own just as they did. I found that I could parent without needing a babysitter, relying on family materially and emotionally, and loving who I was as a mother without watchful eyes.
These days that child is now 20 years old--a grown man! He is living in a nice location, driving a 2017 Jeep, and carrying two jobs that he enjoys. He prays nightly and whenever I talk to him he motivates me to live my best life! He tells me, "Don't worry about me, I will be fine!"
When I looked back on how the baby rocked my world and those around me at the time, I also understand why. He was a gift. A child that would grow up to be one of the good ones. It isn't easy raising any child, but a child of God is something special.
So I encourage every parent who is expecting a child or has a newborn, think ahead--years ahead! What do you want for your child and for you? What type of influences do you want your child to be exposed to? Are you respected, loved and appreciated in your own family? Will you provide those things for your own child?
Imagine your child grown able to encourage and help you one day, it was motivating for me during some tough times. I had to walk out of the room, breathe and tell myself, "It won't always be like this." I picked up the phone and called those same people who had their share of issues with me getting pregnant in the first place. I gave them an opportunity to be a part of our lives and for a time they were. But I had, had enough and realized that I wanted more for my family that didn't involve pettiness and controlling behaviors.
Your baby is a gift, enjoy him or her while you still can.
Nicholl McGuire
Teach Children to Love Sibling Before He or She Arrives
The more you talk, the more likely your child will value the baby to come.
by Nicholl McGuire
They Won't Be Like This Forever...
Capture those precious moments!
Get a quality camera and a whole lot of patience this holiday season--you will need it.
Getting Rest After Having a Newborn, Tips on Keeping Stress Levels Down
I believe I was able to dream again after four months of having a newborn. The demands of feedings, burping, diaper changes, and other needs were so intense during the first four months that I felt at times I was ill-equipped to handle a baby. Being tired most often, unable to sleep through the night, and having my share of women's issues, was mentally and physically draining. Yet, I pressed on anyway during tough times with all my children. My new partner who was initially confused after I had my third son, caught on later and realized I seriously needed help. My older children to a previous relationship helped when they could during visitations. Then there were calls of well-wishes and strangers on the street that said kind things to me about my son. It wouldn't be long, more specifically 14 months later, that my final son showed up.
I didn't pressure myself to see everyone in the family who wanted to just hold a newborn, but didn't want to babysit or help clean my home. I also didn't run to the church either knowing full well the stress of calming the baby as well as watching folks wanting to touch the baby with unclean hands would be too much! I didn't want admirers around me or stares from brothers and sisters warning me about a crying baby. All I wanted was to be left alone, me and new baby. I learned this after feeling stress from having the first grandchild, first grandson.
Family members acted strangely at times and said far too many wrong things when it came to who was next to spend time with the newborn. As the children grew older, walking and talking--getting into everything, the petty comments died down and the desire to watch the first grandchild died down too. It also helped that I had moved as well.
I am a strong believer that a mother who brings a newborn in the world has the right to dictate when she is ready to see people and when she is able to deal with people holding her child. I think it is terrible when controlling and manipulative individuals want to attempt to dictate to the mother how the whole process of delivery should happen down to who shows up at the home after the baby is born.
True rest doesn't come for new parents until the baby sleeps through the night. That is an occasion for celebration! The day you are able to wake up and realize that you didn't have to check on the baby at all--it is such a great feeling! Some things I did to keep the peace in the home for all when it came to a challenging newborn at times included:
1. I didn't keep the baby in the room with the other children. He slept sometimes in a bassinet in the living-room or in my bedroom.
2. I refused to continue conversations over the phone or in-person when my baby needed me. If the baby was taking too long to calm down or I had, had enough, I had music for my ears, a vacuum, and a baby swing. These all helped.
3. I didn't permit critical, difficult or angry people with their negative energy to cross my doorstep, nor did I go to theirs. If they wanted to come over, I set aside a specific day and time, other times I simply said, "Not a good time, I will call you to set up a time." I really had no patience or time to sit and entertain someone especially when I had days when I was in pain after having a baby.
4. I conversed with my partner about how I felt about mostly everything i.e.) newborn issues, employment, the other children, the ex, and finances. Whether he agreed or disagreed with my thoughts/plans, it didn't matter, I just needed to talk. My body had to emotionally and physically heal, the baby needed to be trained to live in our world, and doctor's appointments were necessary whether he liked going or not. I discussed with him about his work schedule and we planned accordingly. He helped with nighttime changes and feedings. I posted the baby's feeding and diaper schedule and included tips on what to do if the baby did one thing or another and posted on the refrigerator. I never let his mood, television watching or facial expressions hinder me from asking him to help. I shared with him when I needed to leave the home and went out for a bite to eat and to the movies.
5. I had my older children participate in a baby care program. They learned how to do things like change diapers, deal with some emergencies, etc. It was very helpful to them and they were able to connect with their little brothers.
6. When things got real tough, I planned a vacation away to see my mother and grandmother, who had been there and done that! I didn't take the baby with me.
7. I listed the baby's needs and asked my partner to run errands. This way there was no conversation needed about everything that we ran out of or any complaint about me always asking him to do something. Once the list was complete and coupons attached, he went out and got what we needed.
8. I didn't participate in holiday planning or making myself available to help others. Holidays were the least of my concern. We reasoned we needed to save money not spend it on adults and their children. I also didn't let church leaders and church-goers guilt me into giving money to the church and other causes. I ignored all ads from my older children's schools about needing money. When I stopped giving to this cause and that one, I was able to buy things for the baby that were needed like a stroller for starters, formula and clothes.
9. We didn't go out and splurge on anything. Instead, we periodically looked for places to dine that were low key, inexpensive and family friendly and took baby along. Oftentimes, we used coupons. If the newborn became restless, one of us took the baby out and the other waited for the food to be prepared so that we could take it home.
10. The residence and laundry were tended to on certain days rather than everyday. No one had the time or energy to want to maintain both daily. Although, I would have liked to do that, I didn't want to add additional stress on the dad by asking him too much or wear myself out trying to do everything each day. If something needed to be done, I mentioned it or left a note or did it the following day. For instance, I cooked enough food for a few days at times rather than just a day.
Hope these tips are helpful and for veteran moms, I know they brought back to some memories!
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight about a variety of issues at YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
I didn't pressure myself to see everyone in the family who wanted to just hold a newborn, but didn't want to babysit or help clean my home. I also didn't run to the church either knowing full well the stress of calming the baby as well as watching folks wanting to touch the baby with unclean hands would be too much! I didn't want admirers around me or stares from brothers and sisters warning me about a crying baby. All I wanted was to be left alone, me and new baby. I learned this after feeling stress from having the first grandchild, first grandson.
Family members acted strangely at times and said far too many wrong things when it came to who was next to spend time with the newborn. As the children grew older, walking and talking--getting into everything, the petty comments died down and the desire to watch the first grandchild died down too. It also helped that I had moved as well.
I am a strong believer that a mother who brings a newborn in the world has the right to dictate when she is ready to see people and when she is able to deal with people holding her child. I think it is terrible when controlling and manipulative individuals want to attempt to dictate to the mother how the whole process of delivery should happen down to who shows up at the home after the baby is born.
True rest doesn't come for new parents until the baby sleeps through the night. That is an occasion for celebration! The day you are able to wake up and realize that you didn't have to check on the baby at all--it is such a great feeling! Some things I did to keep the peace in the home for all when it came to a challenging newborn at times included:
1. I didn't keep the baby in the room with the other children. He slept sometimes in a bassinet in the living-room or in my bedroom.
2. I refused to continue conversations over the phone or in-person when my baby needed me. If the baby was taking too long to calm down or I had, had enough, I had music for my ears, a vacuum, and a baby swing. These all helped.
3. I didn't permit critical, difficult or angry people with their negative energy to cross my doorstep, nor did I go to theirs. If they wanted to come over, I set aside a specific day and time, other times I simply said, "Not a good time, I will call you to set up a time." I really had no patience or time to sit and entertain someone especially when I had days when I was in pain after having a baby.
4. I conversed with my partner about how I felt about mostly everything i.e.) newborn issues, employment, the other children, the ex, and finances. Whether he agreed or disagreed with my thoughts/plans, it didn't matter, I just needed to talk. My body had to emotionally and physically heal, the baby needed to be trained to live in our world, and doctor's appointments were necessary whether he liked going or not. I discussed with him about his work schedule and we planned accordingly. He helped with nighttime changes and feedings. I posted the baby's feeding and diaper schedule and included tips on what to do if the baby did one thing or another and posted on the refrigerator. I never let his mood, television watching or facial expressions hinder me from asking him to help. I shared with him when I needed to leave the home and went out for a bite to eat and to the movies.
5. I had my older children participate in a baby care program. They learned how to do things like change diapers, deal with some emergencies, etc. It was very helpful to them and they were able to connect with their little brothers.
6. When things got real tough, I planned a vacation away to see my mother and grandmother, who had been there and done that! I didn't take the baby with me.
7. I listed the baby's needs and asked my partner to run errands. This way there was no conversation needed about everything that we ran out of or any complaint about me always asking him to do something. Once the list was complete and coupons attached, he went out and got what we needed.
8. I didn't participate in holiday planning or making myself available to help others. Holidays were the least of my concern. We reasoned we needed to save money not spend it on adults and their children. I also didn't let church leaders and church-goers guilt me into giving money to the church and other causes. I ignored all ads from my older children's schools about needing money. When I stopped giving to this cause and that one, I was able to buy things for the baby that were needed like a stroller for starters, formula and clothes.
9. We didn't go out and splurge on anything. Instead, we periodically looked for places to dine that were low key, inexpensive and family friendly and took baby along. Oftentimes, we used coupons. If the newborn became restless, one of us took the baby out and the other waited for the food to be prepared so that we could take it home.
10. The residence and laundry were tended to on certain days rather than everyday. No one had the time or energy to want to maintain both daily. Although, I would have liked to do that, I didn't want to add additional stress on the dad by asking him too much or wear myself out trying to do everything each day. If something needed to be done, I mentioned it or left a note or did it the following day. For instance, I cooked enough food for a few days at times rather than just a day.
Hope these tips are helpful and for veteran moms, I know they brought back to some memories!
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight about a variety of issues at YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
10 Memorable Things You Can Do For the Babies and Children
Everyone tells you, "They grow up fast!" If you are a parent with a baby or small child, you are seeing that everyday. For some of you, expectant parents, reading this, before you know it you will have a baby in your arms and will be commenting on "how beautiful, sweet, wonderful," etc. But then those whines will begin to take their toll and you will start to forget important moments, people, places, and things. Life gets in the way of the littlest of things, doesn't it? Therefore, the following is a simple "To Do" list just to remind you of some things you will want to do, if not for you, for your baby/child. Recording memories is one of the wisest things you can do, because it helps a son or daughter know one's history, appreciate family, welcome others into their inner circle, create closer bonds in the future with one's own children, and more! Here are some things you will want to do.
1. Invest in a good digital and video camera. Record milestones including photos of you and partner interacting with the baby. You might also want to get an Digital voice recorder to create mp3 Cds.
2. Create a traditional photo album/book offline. (Note: blogs get deleted, companies go out of business).
3. Save all collectible baby items, toys, shoes, etc. (if you don't know what is of value, check online).
4. Create a blog and include fond memories, personal challenges and wisdom for the future.
5. Visit as many relatives and friends as you can while the baby is still somewhat new, this way you will be building a network of support early on in case you and your son or daughter should ever need these people in the future. People are more open to newborns. Take photos with these individuals holding the baby, share them with your group, and keep thoughtful cards from these people. Organize their contact information, so that you can keep them up to date on your baby's progress. Preserve this information because one day your child will want to invite family and friends to things like: sporting events, graduation, weddings, etc.
6. Keep a baby book and include all health information in it including any necessary records.
7. Consider a calendar or some memento that tells them about how the world was when they were born.
8. Organize your child's creative work and protect it in things like frames, jars, etc.
9. Give gifts of t-shirts, cups and other fun things when grandparents and other relatives are far away so that they can treasure your child's memories as well.
10. Back up photos, scan documents and put what you can in a fire safe.
There are numerous other things you can do once your child becomes older and can draw. Do similar things as mentioned in this entry to preserve their work. Although some of these tasks might be tedious to some, know that your efforts will be appreciated by you one day, your child, a relative, or who knows, a group one day depending on how popular your child is and what kind of impact your son or daughter might make on society.
Nicholl McGuire
1. Invest in a good digital and video camera. Record milestones including photos of you and partner interacting with the baby. You might also want to get an Digital voice recorder to create mp3 Cds.
2. Create a traditional photo album/book offline. (Note: blogs get deleted, companies go out of business).
3. Save all collectible baby items, toys, shoes, etc. (if you don't know what is of value, check online).
4. Create a blog and include fond memories, personal challenges and wisdom for the future.
5. Visit as many relatives and friends as you can while the baby is still somewhat new, this way you will be building a network of support early on in case you and your son or daughter should ever need these people in the future. People are more open to newborns. Take photos with these individuals holding the baby, share them with your group, and keep thoughtful cards from these people. Organize their contact information, so that you can keep them up to date on your baby's progress. Preserve this information because one day your child will want to invite family and friends to things like: sporting events, graduation, weddings, etc.
6. Keep a baby book and include all health information in it including any necessary records.
7. Consider a calendar or some memento that tells them about how the world was when they were born.
8. Organize your child's creative work and protect it in things like frames, jars, etc.
9. Give gifts of t-shirts, cups and other fun things when grandparents and other relatives are far away so that they can treasure your child's memories as well.
10. Back up photos, scan documents and put what you can in a fire safe.
There are numerous other things you can do once your child becomes older and can draw. Do similar things as mentioned in this entry to preserve their work. Although some of these tasks might be tedious to some, know that your efforts will be appreciated by you one day, your child, a relative, or who knows, a group one day depending on how popular your child is and what kind of impact your son or daughter might make on society.
Nicholl McGuire
5 Tips To Coping In The First Weeks With Your Newborn
When having a new baby, you really do not realise how much work it is until they arrive. It can feel overwhelming when you need to catch up on your sleep, rest, do housework, fix food for yourself as well as trying to keep up with the demands of a newborn.
This article gives you tips on how to cope.
Accept the realities - first it is important to accept the position you are in. You may be miserable without your sleep or having to put someone constantly before yourself, but this stage passes quickly - more so than it feels at first. Try to focus on enjoying the time and don't worry about routines. Just go with the flow and things will adjust quickly.
Rely On Others - When there is a new arrival in the family, family should be there to help you out and make sure things are easier. If your family offer to clean for you or cook for you - accept it. It will be a much needed break. If they don't offer, don't be afraid to ask and try to rely on people at this time. Also try to keep in touch with friends so that you have people to talk to if you are feeling a little overwhelmed.
Cut Corners or Accept Mess - Try not to let it stress you that you haven't vacuumed in over a week or the house is a little messy. Let it go, your baby is more important and tidiness isn't. It can be tough but it is OK to have a messy house and you shouldn't like you have to keep up appearances with your home. If it bothers you too much, try and get family to help out.
Get Out Of The House - One of the best things I did when I had my son was to go out on a walk everyday. I put him in a sling and went for a walk. This helped his colic and helped me calm down when I felt like a bad mother or unable to cope. Getting out of the house will make you feel like you have taken a much needed breather.
You Can't Spoil A Baby - Despite what many people might try to tell you, it is impossible to spoil a baby. Responding to your newborn's every need is important and not something to stress over. Go with your own natural instincts and trust yourself. YOU know best.
Being a new parent is stressful but relying on others, accepting mess and trying to focus on what is important will get you through it.
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Helping Your Baby Adopt a Consistent Schedule
Even the most spontaneous among us enjoy the comfortable confines of having a routine. The same is true for your baby (though she may not realize it yet). Consider the things she needs in order to be healthy. She needs food, baths, sleep, play, and plenty of affection. Juggling those things can be challenging without establishing a schedule. An added bonus for moms and dads who create a consistent routine for their little one's activities is that they'll make their own lives much easier in the process.
Below, we'll offer a series of tips you can use to create and maintain a schedule for your infant's bedtime, meals, and play. We'll explain how to identify clues that will help you meet her needs while adjusting to her internal clock. Lastly, you'll learn what to expect as your little one grows.
Establish A Sleep Routine Early
The best place to start scheduling your infant's activities is with her bedtime. If you can help her learn to fall asleep at a certain time each evening, the rest of the day will conform to that pattern.
Start as early as possible using a few helpful prompts that prepare your little one for sleep. For example, give her a warm bath and put her pajamas on an hour before putting her to bed. Read to her to help her fall asleep. After a few months, try putting her to bed while she's still awake. That way, she can learn to fall asleep by herself.
Identifying Clues From Your Little One
You'll eventually notice that your infant gives you small clues regarding her needs. For example, she'll yawn when she's sleepy or become fussy when she's hungry or worn out. Over time, you'll start to notice patterns. Use these hints to modify your baby's schedule to accommodate her needs. For example, if she starts yawning thirty minutes before her bedtime each night, start putting her to bed a half-hour earlier. If she consistently shows signs of being hungry an hour before her scheduled feeding, change her schedule.
There's no reason to force your little one to conform to a routine you and your partner created. Be flexible and willing to make changes.
Sacrifice For The Schedule (In The Beginning)
During the first few weeks, it's important to avoid activities that force you to stray from your baby's routine. While you should remain open to making changes according to her cues, avoid going on vacations, taking her on outings, or anything else that might disrupt her schedule. Let her be the driving force behind any changes in naptimes, feedings, or play. Otherwise, try to stick to the routine.
Adapting To Your Baby's Development
Year-to-year changes in an adult's life are barely noticeable. Babies, on the other hand, grow quickly and achieve major milestones along the way. By the end of your little one's first twelve months, she might be able to stand and walk. She might start crawling nearly as quickly as you walk. There's also a good chance she'll start straying from her normal schedule. Her naptimes may become shorter and less frequent. She may start getting hungry earlier and more often.
Continue to watch for clues. You may need to adjust your baby's schedule to meet her new tendencies. On the other hand, her straying may be temporary; she may return to her normal routine within a few weeks. Again, be flexible and willing to make changes.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that caring for a baby requires the ability to adapt. Babies enjoy stability and consistency. However, their needs can change - often unpredictably. For example, your little one may suddenly want to skip her morning nap. Or, she may become uncharacteristically hungry in the late afternoon. She might want more playtime than is usual. Adjust her schedule as she grows and allow her to develop at her own pace.
Find quality Maternity Clothes and Maternity Dresses from AppleSeedBoutique.com
By Elizabeth L Perkins
Below, we'll offer a series of tips you can use to create and maintain a schedule for your infant's bedtime, meals, and play. We'll explain how to identify clues that will help you meet her needs while adjusting to her internal clock. Lastly, you'll learn what to expect as your little one grows.
Establish A Sleep Routine Early
The best place to start scheduling your infant's activities is with her bedtime. If you can help her learn to fall asleep at a certain time each evening, the rest of the day will conform to that pattern.
Start as early as possible using a few helpful prompts that prepare your little one for sleep. For example, give her a warm bath and put her pajamas on an hour before putting her to bed. Read to her to help her fall asleep. After a few months, try putting her to bed while she's still awake. That way, she can learn to fall asleep by herself.
Identifying Clues From Your Little One
You'll eventually notice that your infant gives you small clues regarding her needs. For example, she'll yawn when she's sleepy or become fussy when she's hungry or worn out. Over time, you'll start to notice patterns. Use these hints to modify your baby's schedule to accommodate her needs. For example, if she starts yawning thirty minutes before her bedtime each night, start putting her to bed a half-hour earlier. If she consistently shows signs of being hungry an hour before her scheduled feeding, change her schedule.
There's no reason to force your little one to conform to a routine you and your partner created. Be flexible and willing to make changes.
Sacrifice For The Schedule (In The Beginning)
During the first few weeks, it's important to avoid activities that force you to stray from your baby's routine. While you should remain open to making changes according to her cues, avoid going on vacations, taking her on outings, or anything else that might disrupt her schedule. Let her be the driving force behind any changes in naptimes, feedings, or play. Otherwise, try to stick to the routine.
Adapting To Your Baby's Development
Year-to-year changes in an adult's life are barely noticeable. Babies, on the other hand, grow quickly and achieve major milestones along the way. By the end of your little one's first twelve months, she might be able to stand and walk. She might start crawling nearly as quickly as you walk. There's also a good chance she'll start straying from her normal schedule. Her naptimes may become shorter and less frequent. She may start getting hungry earlier and more often.
Continue to watch for clues. You may need to adjust your baby's schedule to meet her new tendencies. On the other hand, her straying may be temporary; she may return to her normal routine within a few weeks. Again, be flexible and willing to make changes.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that caring for a baby requires the ability to adapt. Babies enjoy stability and consistency. However, their needs can change - often unpredictably. For example, your little one may suddenly want to skip her morning nap. Or, she may become uncharacteristically hungry in the late afternoon. She might want more playtime than is usual. Adjust her schedule as she grows and allow her to develop at her own pace.
Find quality Maternity Clothes and Maternity Dresses from AppleSeedBoutique.com
By Elizabeth L Perkins
What to Expect From Newborn Babies
Often, a mother about to deliver her babies is accompanied by an excited husband or even other family members who are eager to see the new bundle of joy. Some who have not seen newborn babies may worry about the scrunched face and squint eyes. They would probably count the toes and check every tiny part to make sure that the baby is more than alright but just perfect. Of course, no matter what the baby looks like, families should welcome him with great warmth and love. Here are some of the things that families can expect from newborn babies:
Not ad-ready
Your newborn may be naturally cute to you, as a parent, but face it: your baby will not win a spot in a television ad from the time he is born. He will still be wrinkly like a little old person and reddish, as if he has come out from a reddish muck - which is not really that far from the truth.
Possibly with strange colored eyes
Some people are not born with the eye colors that they will have when they are all grown up. Caucasian babies may start with blue eyes that will eventually turn brown or green, or remain blue. Other babies may be born with brown eyes that will turn darker as they grow up.
With hair or none
Do not worry if your baby is born with little or no hair. Some babies are born like that but eventually have thick hair as they grow. Other babies may have a full head of hair when they come out. Some blond babies may have darker hair when they are older.
By Donna F. Houston
Are you looking for more information on newborn babies? Visit http://developmentbabytoys.com today for more information.
Not ad-ready
Your newborn may be naturally cute to you, as a parent, but face it: your baby will not win a spot in a television ad from the time he is born. He will still be wrinkly like a little old person and reddish, as if he has come out from a reddish muck - which is not really that far from the truth.
Possibly with strange colored eyes
Some people are not born with the eye colors that they will have when they are all grown up. Caucasian babies may start with blue eyes that will eventually turn brown or green, or remain blue. Other babies may be born with brown eyes that will turn darker as they grow up.
With hair or none
Do not worry if your baby is born with little or no hair. Some babies are born like that but eventually have thick hair as they grow. Other babies may have a full head of hair when they come out. Some blond babies may have darker hair when they are older.
By Donna F. Houston
Are you looking for more information on newborn babies? Visit http://developmentbabytoys.com today for more information.
5 Tips to Prepare Your Toddler for a New Baby
It's a big change for an once only child to become a big brother or sister. It can be a threatening and scary experience. If, as parents, you help your child understand the joys of being an older sibling, you can help ease some of your child's stress. Here are a few tips for preparing for the new arrival:
1. Don't hide your pregnancy from your toddler. He may overhear mysterious conversations or see that mom is not feeling well and worry. In addition, letting your toddler know gives him more time to adjust to the idea. If you have a high risk pregnancy, you need to decide a "safer" time to tell your child.
2. Don't blame the baby! If you are unable to pick up your child because of a sore back, tell your child it is because of your back - not because you're pregnant.
3. Make inevitable changes in your toddler's life early, so it doesn't seem like it's all because of the baby. If your toddler will be giving his crib to the baby, allow your child to sleep in his "big boy" bed several months in advance.
4. Include your child in the pregnancy. Bring him to a couple of prenatal visits, if he's interested. Let him hear the child's heartbeat and view sonogram/ultrasound pictures.
5. Talk about the baby and what it means to be an older sibling. Tell your toddler how his younger brother or sister will learn from him and look up to him. If he's interested, he will also be able to help with the new baby by bringing clean diapers to the diaper changer, showing the baby toys, telling baby all about the world and more.
However you plan for the new arrival, be sure to consider your toddler in your planning. Discuss your toddler's concerns with him, but don't bring up concerns he doesn't mention. There is no need to create worry when there is none. Most of all, enjoy this wonderful time together - it will never be quite the same again.
About the Author:
Malcolms Mom has parenting tips, product reviews and freebies for babies and toddlers. If Malcolm hasn't tried it, you won't find it here.
1. Don't hide your pregnancy from your toddler. He may overhear mysterious conversations or see that mom is not feeling well and worry. In addition, letting your toddler know gives him more time to adjust to the idea. If you have a high risk pregnancy, you need to decide a "safer" time to tell your child.
2. Don't blame the baby! If you are unable to pick up your child because of a sore back, tell your child it is because of your back - not because you're pregnant.
3. Make inevitable changes in your toddler's life early, so it doesn't seem like it's all because of the baby. If your toddler will be giving his crib to the baby, allow your child to sleep in his "big boy" bed several months in advance.
4. Include your child in the pregnancy. Bring him to a couple of prenatal visits, if he's interested. Let him hear the child's heartbeat and view sonogram/ultrasound pictures.
5. Talk about the baby and what it means to be an older sibling. Tell your toddler how his younger brother or sister will learn from him and look up to him. If he's interested, he will also be able to help with the new baby by bringing clean diapers to the diaper changer, showing the baby toys, telling baby all about the world and more.
However you plan for the new arrival, be sure to consider your toddler in your planning. Discuss your toddler's concerns with him, but don't bring up concerns he doesn't mention. There is no need to create worry when there is none. Most of all, enjoy this wonderful time together - it will never be quite the same again.
About the Author:
Malcolms Mom has parenting tips, product reviews and freebies for babies and toddlers. If Malcolm hasn't tried it, you won't find it here.
What to Expect With a Newborn
Caring for a newborn can be an overwhelming task, even if the baby is not your first. The task is best approached with common sense, but common sense is most useful when rooted in experience. Fortunately, even if you are having your first child, there is plenty of experience to draw on - people have been having babies for as long as there have been people.
A newborn baby can bring about a whirlwind of activity, and be a source of excitement. Baby can also bring stress as well as tire you out. Adjusting to life with a newborn can be a major change, and round the clock care for a newborn baby can turn your life upside down. Your newborn will bring a lot of joy to your life, though. Enjoy it, and cope with the rest as it comes.
One thing you need to be sure to do is take care of yourself. You must resist the urge to over-indulge in caffeine. Drink lots of water, eat healthy foods, get fresh air, and if you can, get regular exercise. Also, for your sanity, do something you enjoy every day. You may need to have a little time to yourself to keep you balanced. It is important to take good care of yourself. This will give you the energy to take good care of your newborn baby.
Sleep is at a premium when you have a newborn baby, but get it when you can. If you can, sleep when your baby sleeps, and work out a coordinated schedule with your partner so both of you can rest and still take care of the baby.
No doubt your friends and especially your relatives are eager to spend as much time as possible admiring your new baby. It may make sense for you to establish visiting hours to help you maintain a schedule that works for you and your newborn. Let your visitors know what time is best, and make sure anyone who is not feeling well visits when they are healthy. After all, you don’t want anyone to pass a cold onto your new, vulnerable baby. Now is not the time for social graces; don’t be afraid to be direct. You can also take advantage of the interest in your baby and have friends and family help with household chores so you can get some rest every now and then.
It’s never too early to establish a routine, but you have to let your baby set the pace. Make sure you set aside plenty of time for nursing sessions, naps and crying spells. Don’t schedule too many activities; most of your time is now baby time. Give yourself extra time to pack and get items together when you do have to go somewhere.
Be prepared to have a roller coaster of emotions. You will of course admire your new baby and adore him or her, but there will be times when you grieve for your fatally wounded independence, and worry about your ability to care for a newborn. These may be seconds apart. It’s all part of the process. You will be back to your normal self shortly. It is always OK to ask for help if you need it, and your newborn will thrive as you do.
Maria Cummings is a devoted parent, wife and expert author on family matters and parenting. She is devoted to helping children's organizations and activities. Maria is also the Sales Manager for BustlingBaby.com which offers a variety of baby mobility products, from convertible car seats to lightweight strollers
A newborn baby can bring about a whirlwind of activity, and be a source of excitement. Baby can also bring stress as well as tire you out. Adjusting to life with a newborn can be a major change, and round the clock care for a newborn baby can turn your life upside down. Your newborn will bring a lot of joy to your life, though. Enjoy it, and cope with the rest as it comes.
One thing you need to be sure to do is take care of yourself. You must resist the urge to over-indulge in caffeine. Drink lots of water, eat healthy foods, get fresh air, and if you can, get regular exercise. Also, for your sanity, do something you enjoy every day. You may need to have a little time to yourself to keep you balanced. It is important to take good care of yourself. This will give you the energy to take good care of your newborn baby.
Sleep is at a premium when you have a newborn baby, but get it when you can. If you can, sleep when your baby sleeps, and work out a coordinated schedule with your partner so both of you can rest and still take care of the baby.
No doubt your friends and especially your relatives are eager to spend as much time as possible admiring your new baby. It may make sense for you to establish visiting hours to help you maintain a schedule that works for you and your newborn. Let your visitors know what time is best, and make sure anyone who is not feeling well visits when they are healthy. After all, you don’t want anyone to pass a cold onto your new, vulnerable baby. Now is not the time for social graces; don’t be afraid to be direct. You can also take advantage of the interest in your baby and have friends and family help with household chores so you can get some rest every now and then.
It’s never too early to establish a routine, but you have to let your baby set the pace. Make sure you set aside plenty of time for nursing sessions, naps and crying spells. Don’t schedule too many activities; most of your time is now baby time. Give yourself extra time to pack and get items together when you do have to go somewhere.
Be prepared to have a roller coaster of emotions. You will of course admire your new baby and adore him or her, but there will be times when you grieve for your fatally wounded independence, and worry about your ability to care for a newborn. These may be seconds apart. It’s all part of the process. You will be back to your normal self shortly. It is always OK to ask for help if you need it, and your newborn will thrive as you do.
Maria Cummings is a devoted parent, wife and expert author on family matters and parenting. She is devoted to helping children's organizations and activities. Maria is also the Sales Manager for BustlingBaby.com which offers a variety of baby mobility products, from convertible car seats to lightweight strollers
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