Mothers and More

How To Help Children Overcome Their Fear Of Swimming

2022-09-16T00:00:00Z

For many kids, summer is all about pool or beach fun. For others, however, water-related activities are terrifying. Parents need to learn how to help their children overcome fears about water and swimming.

Working through these fears makes it possible for kids to enjoy a popular summer activity with their friends and makes it less likely they will fall victim to accidental drowning. (The CDC reports that in the United States, accidental drownings account for about 10 deaths per day, and 1 in 5 people who drown are under the age of 14.)

Respect your child’s fear

It can be tempting to dismiss or minimize your child’s fear to get him into the water more quickly. This strategy will likely backfire, and you’ll make him even more resistant to the idea of swimming. Your child’s fear is real. By acknowledging the fear and asking him to tell you more about it, you’ll quickly get to the root of your child’s anxiety.

Identify the specific source of the fear

As you listen to your child and observe her behavior around water, you’ll begin to hone in on the source of her fears. In some cases, the fear of swimming isn’t actually a fear of water.

Does your child fear swimming in pools and natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers? If she only exhibits fear around swimming pools, she may be remembering a swimming experience where her eyes were irritated by chlorine. Saltwater can also irritate the eyes, so if your child likes lakes and rivers but not the ocean, eye irritation could be to blame.

Sometimes the fear of swimming is less about the water and more about what may or may not be under the water. Children who fear monsters under the bed or in the closet may have similar fears about unknown creatures beneath the water’s surface.

Pay attention to the temperature of both the air and the water. If you’re asking your child to swim in cold water or on a cold day, his fear may be a desire to stay warm.

Does your child act more fearful at group swimming lessons? Some children thrive in a group learning environment and find the courage to overcome their fears more easily with the help of their peers. Others experience additional stress when trying to overcome fear in a group environment.

If you notice that your child’s fear is more evident in a group lesson setting, she could be experiencing some social anxiety in addition to her water-related fears.

Build trust

Thank your child for helping you understand his fears. Tell him that you will keep him safe. Please do not throw your child into the water or trick him into going in before he’s ready. You need your child to trust you if you’re going to help him conquer his fear of water.

Help your child take slow steps to overcome the fear

Once you’ve identified some specifics about the source of your child’s fear, you can begin taking steps to help your child become more comfortable around water. The following steps are geared toward children who are fearful of pools, but you can modify these steps to fit your child’s individual needs.

Non-swimming visits: Visit the pool with your child, and let her know that she won’t have to go in the water. Don’t even bring bathing suits or towels – this should indeed be just a “reconnaissance mission.” Walk around the pool with your child and let her watch the other swimmers, but stay far enough away from the edge to make sure you both remain dry. Keep the visit short. Make a few more of these visits to the pool, until your child feels comfortable with this level of proximity to the water.
Pool edge visits: Return to the pool and invite your child to sit beside you on the edge of the shallow end. Put your legs into the water, and tell your child that he can put his legs in, too. Tell him it’s also OK to keep his legs dry and out of the water if he prefers. Continue making this kind of visit to the pool until your child voluntarily puts his legs into the water. Remember, don’t force him.
Bathing suit visits: Once your child is comfortable putting her legs in the water while sitting on the edge of the pool, begin visiting the pool and putting on bathing suits. Reinforce to your child that wearing a bathing suit doesn’t mean she has to get in the water. Sit on the pool’s edge and let her practice putting her legs in the water again. Tell her you’ll get in the pool for a few minutes, and then be careful not to splash your child in the process. It’s OK to tell your child how good the water feels, but don’t try to convince her to get in. Have a few water toys with you, and ask your child to throw them to you one at a time from the edge of the pool. If she enjoys this, bring them back to her and ask her to do it again.
Invitation to enter the water: Invite your child to come into the pool with you, and tell him that you will hold him the whole time and make sure he’s safe. If he agrees, hold him firmly on your hip and take him into the water, ensuring his head stays far above the surface. If he disagrees, don’t force him. Instead, spend some more time letting him throw water toys at you from the pool’s edge.
Bubble-blowing: Once your child is used to entering the water in your arms, you can begin teaching her to blow bubbles in the water. Begin by showing her how to blow on the water’s surface while keeping her face a few inches away. Let her try it. Then show her how to begin blowing above the surface of the water, dipping her lips into the water while still blowing to create a few bubbles, and then bring her face out of the water while still blowing. Practice this until she does it effortlessly.
Standing alone: Put a life jacket or other approved floatation device on your child, and invite him to stand on his own in the shallow end of the pool. If he is resistant to this, return to holding him in your arms. Continue practicing the bubble-blowing exercise, encouraging your child to put more and more of his face into the water each time.

It’s likely that once your child is comfortable standing on her own in the shallow end, she’ll feel confident enough to begin to explore the water on her own. Congratulations! You’ve helped your child conquer her fear of the water.

Keep the floatation device on her for now. Once she begins venturing into deeper water, it’s essential to teach her how to stay afloat without the help of a life jacket so that she doesn’t become dependent upon floatation devices.

Your child should now be comfortable enough in the water to take swimming lessons in a group or with a private teacher. Pay attention to any issues you identified earlier (eye irritation from chlorine, tendency to feel cold, etc.), and make sure you provide tools for dealing with these (goggles to protect the eyes, thick towels for warmth, etc.)

Raising Low-Media Children in a Media-Crazed World

2022-09-16T00:00:00Z

We’ve all heard the complaints: Kids spend too much time on screens.

They’re disconnected and preoccupied. Family time is a lost luxury. The list goes on and on.

While few people will argue that media and technology are not responsible for some of the negative behaviors we recognize in 21st-century kids (and adults, too!), there doesn’t seem to be a cohesive consensus on what to do about it.

Partly because not all media exposure is inherently wrong, some of it can actually promote positive outcomes.

Positive Effects of Media on Children

TV shows like Sesame Street encourage empathy and cultural awareness, all while exposing young viewers to early educational concepts such as letter and number recognition and identification of shapes and colors.

School-aged children can collaborate on school projects with their classmates via approved platforms. Older children and teens find media is beneficial to maintaining relationships with family and friends, particularly those that live far away.

Media also helps children to develop social awareness, both culturally and politically.

So, there are some upsides to using media. Unfortunately, the negatives seem to outweigh the positives.

Impact of Social Media on Youth | Katanu Mbevi | TEDxYouth@BrookhouseSchool - YouTube

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Adverse Effects of Media on Children

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , children who spend too much time with media/technology are at higher risk for:

Poor nutritional habits and obesity
Lower academic performance
Increased likelihood of abusing drugs and alcohol
Increased likelihood of early sexual encounters
Increased likelihood of violent tendencies
Increased anti-social behavior
Poor sleep quality

Sounds scary? It sure does! But it doesn’t have to be.

What Parents Can Do

As caregivers, we can do plenty of things to help children avoid trouble.

But, let’s be honest – it isn’t all that easy. Sure, we’ve devised crafty ways to limit our kids’ screen use. We’ve awarded limited screen time as a reward for good behavior or good grades, we’ve revoked tech privileges in response to bad behavior, we’ve purchased parental blocks on our computers (only to find we had to ask our kids to help us set them up!) and we’ve commiserated with other parents, friends, and family about the growing problem of kids and tech.

And we’ve compiled lists.

Lists that look something like this:

Top 5 Ways to Get Your Child Off Screens

Have him play outside
Have her read
Suggest a board game to play
Encourage her to garden, bird watch, or build a fort
Let him cook dinner

The possibilities are endless. But, here’s the thing. None of those ideas are worth the weight of a feather if we, the adults, don’t model the behavior we want and expect from our children.

Do you want your kid on screens less? Then, start acting like it. Try some of these ideas:

Ways You Can Inspire Your Children to Put Those Screens Down

Put your phone down when your kids are talking to you.
Shut the TV off when they’re doing homework.
Dig that garden yourself and ask them to help you plant some
Let them see you reading. Better yet, read with them (or to them!)
Get your butt outside and go for a hike. Ask them to keep you company.
Volunteer for a project that you feel is important. Let them see you feeling good about doing good. Then, ask them what’s important to them.
Make art.
Go to a park, and people watch. Write about or draw what you see. Compare notes with your kids.
Invite your kids on a scavenger hunt at a museum. Make a list of paintings or items in the exhibits and then try to find them. The first person to find everything on the list gets an extra scoop of ice cream!
Do yoga at a class, on your lawn, in the hallway. It doesn’t matter where. Just do it. And, remember to breathe. Show your kids how to relax.
Discuss. Debate.
Cook dinner – together. And eat it together. Even if you can only manage to do it once a month. No time for a family dinner? How about a family breakfast? Or a family cookie baking session one rainy afternoon?
Give yourself a “Yes Day.” Clear your entire schedule for one day and say yes to any opportunity. Ask your kids for suggestions and say yes (as long as you set some parameters first! They can get pretty imaginative, as you know!)

In Conclusion

You see, we all know what it is we need to do to help kids limit their screen time. And we all know why it’s essential to do it.

But, we have to come to terms with this: Our actions speak louder than our words.

We must embrace Gandhi’s philosophy: “Be the change we want to see in the world.” Sure it’s not always going to be easy. You most definitely will have to bribe yourself to go on that hike.

Yes, you will find that you have to force yourself to put your phone down (face down) and give your little one your undivided attention.

Sure, you’ll have a million other things you should (rather) be doing than playing Monopoly or painting flower pots, but it’s going to be worth it.

Because by modeling the behavior you’re asking of them, they’ll see that it’s important to you. And, they’ll know the value of the time you spend together. Don’t worry. You can do it. Your children will help you!

Suggestions for Further Reading and Research

For those of you who like to stay organized, the American Academy of Pediatrics has a Family Media Use Plan that you might be interested in:

https://www.aap.org/en-us/Documents/ppe_document108_en.pdf

For those of you who find solace in nature and recognize the value of time spent outdoors, Richard Louv has written Last Child in the Woods, a marvelous book about the risks of Nature-Deficit Disorder on our children. Here’s a link to his website:

http://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/

Are space heaters safe for your baby’s room?

2022-09-23T00:00:00Z

As any good parent, you want to keep your baby safe and warm in Winter and might consider using a space heater. Unfortunately, Space Heaters are not safe! Babies cannot regulate their body temperature, so using a heater in their room can be more dangerous than you think.

Allowing a baby to overheat can be very serious for their health and, in extreme cases, can contribute to the risk of Sudden Infant Death. Space heaters can also cause fires and can cause surface burns to small children.

The below article discusses why you should avoid using a space heater and what other safe alternatives are available.

What is the risk of using a spaceheater in my baby’s room?

Overheating and SIDS

The risk of sudden infant death (SIDS) can increase if the room your baby sleeps in is too hot. Using a heater in your baby’s room increases the temperature in the room and causes your baby to overheat.

Monitoring the room’s temperature is the best way to keep a baby safe and lower the risk of SIDS.

The Lullaby Trust advises that the temperature of your baby’s bedroom should be between 16 °C to 20 °C. You can easily monitor the temperature with a room thermometer or by purchasing a baby room thermometer which will alert you if their room is too hot or cold.

Fire

A space heater can be dangerous if placed near flammable materials such as synthetic fabric, cotton, and linen. With a baby crawling around and exploring its surroundings, the heater may get knocked over and cause a fire.

Burns

Portable heaters often have outer surfaces that become hot when used or have grates and grills, which are very enticing to tiny fingers.

Stanford Medicine states that 20 percent of burns in children below four years come from contact burns. Room heaters are one of the most common reasons for product-related thermal burns.

How can I check if my baby is too hot or cold?

There are a few signs that will tell you whether your baby is too hot or cold, but the best way to check is to feel their chest or neck area by inserting your fingers under their clothes and feeling their skin.

If your baby is hot, they will likely have flushed cheeks and you may see some sweat around their hairline. If they are too hot, adjust the room temperature or remove blankets or items of clothing. This is particularly important if you live in a hot country or are on holiday in a hot climate.
If they are too cold you will be able to tell when you feel the skin on their chest or neck and you may notice that their hands look less pink.

What can I do if my home is too cold?

If you feel that the room temperature is too cold, use a reliable thermometer to check the temperature. If the room temperature your baby sleeps in is below the minimum 16 °C you can do the following:

Add a layer of clothing to your baby if they feel cold, but do not add a hat if they are indoors because babies release heat through their heads to maintain a healthy body temperature.
If necessary keep the central heating on at a low temperature (around 20 °C) or have the heating on for small periods of the night.
Sleep in the same room as your baby. This will allow you to use your own body to gauge the temperature of the room and you can also keep a close eye on your baby.

Can I use blankets to cover my baby?

Allowing a baby to overheat can dramatically increase the risk of SIDS.

Here are some safe options you can use if you do not have central heating:

Use light layers or light blankets rather than thick duvets. They make it harder for a baby to overheat, and you can take them off quickly if your baby gets too hot.
Use baby sleeping bags or blankets but not both.
Baby sleeping bags are worn by your baby and prevent it from suffocating as the baby can not kick the sleeping bag over its head. If you use a sleeping bag, make sure that you choose the correct tog level for your home’s temperature.
Tuck your baby’s sheets or blankets beneath their arms and shoulders.

Do space heaters cause health issues?

As mentioned above, using space heaters around your baby can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death (SIDS), as they can cause your baby to overheat. However, do they cause any other health issues?

A space heater heats the air in a room by causing moisture to evaporate, leaving the air in the room dry. This dry air can cause health issues for your baby that will cause them to feel uncomfortable. These health issues include:

Dry skin – a room heater can dry out the moisture in your baby’s skin causing it to become flaky and itchy and uncomfortable for the baby.
Dehydration – Severely overheating the room can cause your baby to lose fluids through sweating and therefore slowly cause dehydration and extreme thirst in your baby. This can cause serious health issues or death for your baby if this goes unnoticed.
Dry Nasal Passages – Dry air can pull moisture from your baby’s delicate nasal passageways causing irritation and nosebleeds.

How can I make using a space heater safe?

If you have to use a space heater because your home is too cold, the safest way to use a heater is to use it to heat your baby’s room before they are put down to sleep. Then turn off the heater and remove it from the room before your baby goes to sleep.

You should also make sure you purchase a space heater from a reputable manufacturer and have it tested by an electrician before using it.

It is also a good idea to buy a heater designed specifically for use around children, and one that has an internal thermometer that will turn off the heater once the room has reached the desired temperature.

When using the space heater around your baby, take the following precautions:

The heater is placed in an area where your baby can not reach it
The heater is in a place where it can not be knocked over or it has a stand that prevents this from happening.
Do not use extension leads to plug the heater in as this can cause fires. Instead, plug the heater directly into the electrical wall socket.
Ensure that the heater is not directly aimed at your baby and instead is aimed away from them, which will allow the warm air to circulate in the room.
Keep a window or door to the room with the heater on slightly open to allow the air to circulate and prevent the room from getting too hot.
Remove any synthetic fabrics and combustible materials from the area around the heater.
Dress your baby in light sleeping clothes and do not put a blanket on them. This will help prevent them from overheating.
Regularly check on your baby and the temperature of the room. If the room is warm enough, consider turning off the heater for a short period until you check again.

Final Thoughts

If you are using a space heater around your baby, try to avoid going to sleep yourself while the heater is on in your baby’s room. This can be difficult if your home is freezing at night. However, this is the safest option as it allows you to regularly check on your baby, monitor their temperature, and turn off the heater once their room reaches optimal temperature.

An extra layer of clothing or an additional light blanket will keep your baby warm during the night and will less likely cause them to overheat. A cold baby is more likely to cry and alert you to their discomfort than an overheating baby, so if your baby gets too cold, they are likely to let you know about it.

10 Interesting Facts About Baby Kicks During Pregnancy

2022-09-24T00:00:00Z

One of the most exciting moments in a pregnancy is when you feel your baby kicking for the first time. However, many mothers, especially those experiencing their first pregnancy, aren’t always aware of the first kicks.

They often mistake them for gas or nerves. Nevertheless, somewhere in the second trimester (sometimes as early as the 13th week for women who have had previous pregnancies and as late as the 26th week for first-timers), you will feel that first kick – something akin to flutter or tickle deep in your belly.

Please make no mistake. It will be one of your pregnancy’s best and happiest moments. Those little kicks, which will become more frequent and more powerful as your baby grows, are often your baby’s way of communicating with you.

It’s essential to pay attention to them so that you can learn what your baby is trying to tell you.

Baby Kicks 101

Babies are generally most active between the hours of 9 P.M. and 1 A.M. in response to a change in blood sugar levels.
Babies will generally kick more if you’re lying on your left side because circulation improves in this position. (It also helped me during those times when I was battling pregnancy-induced heartburn and indigestion. Lying on my left side helped facilitate my digestion. Chewing gum also did the trick, too!)
Your health helps to determine your baby’s activity level. If you smoke, are experiencing excess stress, or have poor eating habits, your baby’s kicks may reflect that with weaker or less frequent movements.
Babies often kick in reaction to noise. Some babies will respond positively to voices, particularly their parents. However, many will become agitated when they’re subjected to noisy environments. To avoid undue stress, it’s best to avoid loud noises whenever possible.
Babies often kick to turn themselves away from light. They like dark, quiet environments. Do your best to keep bright light away from them if you notice they start kicking a lot when you expose your tummy to light.
Babies often kick in reaction to foods you’ve eaten. Spicy foods get many babies up and kicking. Sugary foods can deliver a sugar-high to your baby that induces lots of movement and restlessness. Even though it may be reassuring to feel your baby’s heightened activity, it’s best to avoid sugar-laden foods and drinks and opt for healthier alternatives. Proper nutrition is vital to the well-being of both you and your baby.
Babies often kick in reaction to your movement. Babies usually respond with an activity of their own if you’re exercising or just having a generally busy day.
Most fetuses will move around thirty times every hour, although you won’t necessarily feel all of those movements due to the baby’s positioning within the womb.
Movements tend to subside around the 32nd week as your baby gets bigger and has less room to move about.

It’s essential to pay attention to your baby’s kicks and patterns. Getting comfortable with your baby’s schedule and reactions to certain stimuli will help you recognize any possible reasons for concern.

The American Pregnancy Association suggests keeping track of your baby’s movements to detect ten kicks within a 2-hour time frame.

However, remember that what is normal for your baby may not be the average. Your baby might kick more frequently or less often.

What’s important is to get familiar with your baby’s movements and note any fundamental changes. There are several options for monitoring those kicks and jabs, each with its own set of advantages.

Options for Keeping Track of Your Baby’s Movements

Baby monitors. Some mothers-to-be like to rely on technology to assure them that the baby is moving and developing nicely.
Kick charts. Charts such as these require mothers to mark each movement in a specific time frame. The marks are counted at the end of the specified amount of time. These are handy if you want to keep track of movements over several hours, days, or weeks.
The Old-Fashioned Way. Some mothers eschew technology or paperwork in favor of just resting and allowing themselves to become comfortable with the habits of their baby’s movements. Sitting quietly in a comfortable position and calmly noting your baby’s pattern of movement and active hours may be all you need to ensure that everything is fine.

Whatever works best for you is the best option. The important part here is to get comfortable with your baby’s unique way of communicating with you.

When To Get Things Checked Out

If you notice that your baby’s movements have noticeably decreased or weakened, it’s time to call your doctor to rule out any complications.

Don’t panic, though. Often, your baby is just resting, or its position may be making it more difficult for you to detect the kicks and jabs. In any case, it’s always better to check in with your doctor and follow her advice and suggestions.

If for no other reason, it will give you peace of mind, so you can rest. And, in all likelihood, your little baby will get going as soon as you relax and get comfortable, letting you know that he’s awake and would like some attention!

How to treat and prevent Diaper Rash?

2022-09-24T00:00:00Z

Has your baby become extra fussy when you change her diaper? Diaper rash may be the culprit! Diaper rash is highly uncomfortable for your little one.

Fortunately, it’s also reasonably easy to treat. Many parents choose a natural treatment, like coconut oil. There are also several commercial products available at your local drugstore that can be effective. In extreme cases, a visit to your doctor may be necessary.

You’ll have a happier baby if you learn how to prevent diaper rash (an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure). Even with the best prevention, most babies develop a diaper rash at some point in their first year. Use these prevention and treatment tips to help your baby avoid or recover from diaper rash.

Tips for Preventing Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is most often caused by a wet diaper that’s been left on too long. A diaper that’s too tight or not appropriately fastened can also cause a rash where it rubs against your baby’s skin. More severe cases include yeast infections, bacterial infections, and allergic reactions.

Check your baby’s diaper at least every two hours, and change it immediately if it’s wet or dirty. Clean his skin thoroughly after each change. Use water and a soft cloth or mild wipes. Avoid wipes that contain alcohol or propylene glycol, as they can irritate your baby’s skin.

Let your baby go diaper-free whenever you can. It lets the skin dry after a diaper change, which can help prevent bacteria from growing. The best time for a diaper-free baby is immediately after a bowel movement (you’ll cut down on the likelihood of a big mess!)

If you use cloth diapers, make sure you are washing them correctly. Improperly washed diapers can harbor bacteria and irritate your baby’s skin. Avoid harsh detergents, and don’t use bleach or fabric softener.

Diaper Rash Types

Home Remedies

Even with the best preventative measures, most babies get diaper rash. You can use several home remedies to ease your baby’s discomfort. Combine these treatments to ensure your baby stays as dry as possible in between changes.

Give Baking Soda Baths

Dissolve two tablespoons of baking soda in a basin of warm water, and soak your baby’s bottom for 10 minutes, up to three times a day. Note that babies whose umbilical cords haven’t fallen off aren’t ready to be bathed, so this method isn’t suitable for newborns. Never leave your baby alone in a bath.

Create a Moisture Barrier

In many cases, creating a moisture barrier between the skin and the diaper is enough to let your baby’s rash heal. You can use a commercial diaper rash cream for this, but many parents prefer to use something natural.

Coconut oil is a fantastic moisture barrier choice. Clean and dry your baby after a diaper change, and gently massage a small amount of coconut oil into his skin.

You can also make a homemade diaper rash cream with coconut oil, shea butter, zinc oxide, and essential oils by following the recipe on the Mommypotamus Blog. It would be best if you kept this cream in the refrigerator.

Remember that any cream or oil you use will be challenging to get out of cloth diapers. Use disposable diapers (or a liner in your cloth diapers) when treating a diaper rash with creams or oils.

Try Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is often used to treat sunburn and can be soothing for diaper rash, too. Clean and dry your baby, and then apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. You can use aloe vera gel fresh from the plant or buy a bottled gel from your local natural food store or pharmacy.

Avoid Powders

Avoid using baby powder or cornstarch when your baby has a diaper rash. These powders can increase yeast growth, irritating your baby’s rash further.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

If your baby’s diaper rash doesn’t respond to home remedies, you may want to try an over-the-counter solution from your pharmacy.

Commercial Diaper Rash Cream

Commercial diaper rash creams, like Desitin, contain zinc oxide to help protect and heal the skin. (Zinc oxide is also used in many sunscreen lotions.) Follow the directions on the packaging, and make sure your baby is clean and dry before applying the cream.

Antibiotic/Antiseptic Ointments

Some doctors recommend using a small amount of an antibiotic/antiseptic ointment like Bacitracin or Neosporin after each diaper change while the rash persists. If your baby’s rash is bacterial, this ointment can help.

Hydrocortisone Cream

Try a 1% hydrocortisone cream on your baby’s skin has pros and cons. Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation and can help your baby feel more comfortable while the rash heals. However, hydrocortisone cream can worsen the infection if the rash is caused by yeast. It’s best to avoid this cream unless nothing else works to make her more comfortable.

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When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if your baby’s diaper rash doesn’t respond to home remedies or over-the-counter solutions after a couple of days. Your baby may need a prescription anti-fungal medication to eliminate the diaper rash.

Most babies respond well to a combination of drier diapers and a cream or other moisture barrier. Whichever treatment you choose, give your baby some diaper-free time to allow his skin to dry thoroughly.

10 Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

2022-09-24T00:00:00Z

Eating for two may well be one of the most enjoyable aspects of pregnancy. Indulging in a little extra hummus or peanut butter or, let’s face it, ice cream or a few potato chips, here and there is a definite pregnancy perk. As long as you do your best to maintain a predominantly healthy diet and refrain, whenever possible, from gaining too much weight, you should be fine to indulge in a craving every once in a while. Aside from not over-doing the sweets and other foods that don’t offer a whole lot of nutritional value, and barring any dietary restrictions due to a medical condition, there are relatively few foods that mothers-to-be are advised to stay away from. However, there are a few precautions that you should take seriously regarding your nutrition and the health of your unborn baby. Don’t worry. The list isn’t very long and it isn’t all that restrictive. It is, however, important that you become familiar with it.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Fish high in mercury. This includes tuna, swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel, shark, marlin, orange roughy, grouper, Chilean sea bass, bluefish, halibut, and sablefish. Generally speaking, the larger the fish, the more likely it will have a high mercury count.
Raw meat and fish. Eating raw or undercooked meat and fish increases the risk of contracting food-borne illnesses that are dangerous to both you and your baby.
Raw eggs can possibly transmit salmonella although pasteurization does help to reduce this risk. It’s best to avoid them just the same.
Soft cheeses such as brie, camembert, feta, gorgonzola, and certain queso are not considered safe for consumption during pregnancy.
Unpasteurized milk.
Pate carries the possibility of the presence of listeria.
Excess caffeine can possibly lead to dehydration and even miscarriage. Limit your daily intake to your physician’s suggestions.
Alcohol has been associated with birth defects.
Unwashed produce sometimes harbors bacteria.
Raw sprouts pose potential health hazards to pregnant women and babies due to possible bacterial contamination.

While this list may seem a little daunting at first it’s clear that there are many other healthy and tasty alternatives that will satisfy your cravings and keep you and your baby safe. The American Pregnancy Association advises mothers-to-be that “The food we eat on a daily basis affects how our bodies work, how we heal and grow, and how we maintain energy and strength for years to come. It also determines the basic nutritional health that our children are born with, and provides a model for their eating habits during childhood and beyond.” That reminder should make it easier for us to choose to adopt a healthful nutrition plan during pregnancy and hopefully for the rest of our lives.

The Mayo Clinic states that “during pregnancy, the basic principles of healthy eating remain the same…However, a few nutrients in a pregnancy diet deserve special attention.”

Key Nutritional Needs to Keep in Mind

This includes sources such as lean meats, fully cooked fish or seafood, eggs, cottage cheese, nuts and legumes.
Calcium derived from dairy products and certain dark, leafy greens as well as salmon.
Iron sourced from dark, leafy greens, lean red meats, beans, fortified cereals or bread or possibly a supplement prescribed by your physician.
Fiber from whole grains and certain fruits such as berries and apples.
Folate from dark, leafy greens, oranges, peanuts, and certain fortified breads and cereals or a supplement prescribed by your physician.
Vitamin C derived from whole fruits.
Vitamin D from fortified juice, eggs, and milk.

A diet rich in whole foods, particularly vegetables and fruits, as well as whole grains, nuts, legumes, lean cuts of meat, healthy varieties of fish and sufficient amounts of water are important nutritional standards to abide by for optimal health. Doing your best to maintain a healthy nutritional standard will help to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.

How to Change a Diaper

2022-09-24T00:00:00Z

Changing diapers isn’t difficult, but it takes a surprising amount of time. Infants require an average of 10 daily diaper changes. As they mature, the number decreases to about 5 or 6. However, since the average child doesn’t potty-train until two years old, it’s safe to assume that you will spend over 400 hours changing nearly 5000 diapers in those first few years.

But, don’t look at those hours spent as a burden. Moments spent diapering your child can be special bonding times.

Three Basic Rules of Safe Diapering

There are three concrete rules that all caretakers must abide by. They are not up for debate.

Always wash your hands before changing your baby’s diaper. I know; it sounds counter-intuitive. Why wash your hands before you clean a messy diaper, right? The answer is simple – your baby’s immune system is still developing. Keeping your hands clean, especially when attending to your child’s delicate areas, helps keep germs from entering their systems. It’s a small effort for a big reward.
Have your supplies readily available and no more than an arm’s reach away. Preparation is essential here. You don’t want to have to scoop your half-dressed, diaperless baby away to run into another room to grab the box of baby wipes that you left in your diaper bag. Keep supplies close by and fully stocked to save time and aggravation.
Never, EVER, leave your baby unattended during diaper changing time. Turning your back on your baby for even a few seconds can have drastic consequences. We’ve all heard those horror stories of babies rolling off changing tables or ingesting ointments or powders, sometimes causing painful injuries or even death. Those stories can become a reality if you risk leaving your child alone, even for a few seconds. Don’t take unnecessary risks!

Now that we’ve covered the three essential rules of diapering, we can move on to getting that diaper changed.

Necessary Supplies

Diapers
Wipes or washcloths
Diaper rash cream or ointment
Clean clothes – a onesie, footed pajamas or romper
A toy or something that will keep your baby’s attention while you change them

While the act of diapering is pretty basic, there are minor differences between diapering girls and boys.

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Diapering Girls

Lay your baby on a clean surface. Don’t assume you need a changing table. While they’re convenient for storage and easy on your back, they can be a nuisance. Who has time to run into a specific room to change your baby every time they blow out their diaper? Sometimes, you need to get down to business right where you are. Keeping a few clean towels and necessary supplies in each room you spend the most time in may be easier. Any clean, sturdy surface will do. A clean towel on the floor works well, but whatever makes your life easiest is the right choice for you.
Remove her clothing and the soiled diaper, keeping the diaper and any soiled clothing out of your baby’s reach, so their curious hands don’t find their way into a messy pile of you-know-what.
Gently hold her legs together at her ankles and lift them off the changing area. Wipe her vagina and rectum gently to remove any urine or feces, making sure to pay attention to areas hidden increases. Always wipe in a front-to-back direction from the vagina to the rectum to ensure that feces aren’t inadvertently introduced to the vaginal area, as that can cause infection.
If your baby’s diapered area looks chafed or irritated, apply an ointment or cream specifically designed for babies. This ointment will create a barrier to keep urine or feces from burning the already delicate area and increasing any irritation.
When she’s all clean, raise her legs a bit further up, place a clean, dry diaper beneath her and gently lower her legs back down to the surface.
Secure the diaper around her waist by attaching the back of the diaper tightly to the front to prevent leaks.
Re-clothe her.
For the older baby or one that’s particularly wiggly, employ the use of a toy or mobile to grab their attention. Any soft toy she can easily hold, or a mobile that captivates her will make diapering the active child much more manageable.

Diapering Boys

It’s wise to remember to keep a diaper or cloth over your baby’s penis while you’re cleaning him to avoid getting a surprise spraying. It happens to everyone. Forewarned is forearmed.

Just like diapering girls, many of the steps apply to boys as well:

Lay your baby on a clean surface. Don’t assume you need a changing table. While they’re convenient for storage and easy on your back, they can be a nuisance. Who has time to run into a specific room to change your baby every time they blow out their diaper? Sometimes, you need to get down to business right where you are. Keeping a few clean towels and necessary supplies in each room, you spend the most time in may be easier. Any clean, sturdy surface will do. A clean towel on the floor works well, but whatever makes your life easiest is the right choice for you.
Remove his clothing and the soiled diaper, keeping the diaper and any soiled clothing out of your baby’s reach, so his curious hands don’t find their way into a messy pile of you-know-what.
Gently hold his legs together at his ankles and lift them up off the changing area. Wipe his penis, testicles, and rectum gently to remove any urine or feces, making sure to move his testicles to the side to pay attention to hidden areas. Always wipe in a front-to-back direction from the penis to the rectum to ensure that feces aren’t inadvertently introduced to the penile area that can cause infection.
If your baby’s diapered area looks chafed or irritated, apply an ointment or cream specifically designed for babies. This ointment will create a barrier to keep urine or feces from burning the already delicate area and increasing any irritation.
When he’s all clean, raise his legs a bit further up, place a clean, dry diaper beneath him, and gently lower his legs back down to the surface.
Secure the diaper around his waist by attaching the back of the diaper tightly to the front to prevent leaks.
Re-clothe him.
For the older baby or one that’s particularly wiggly, employ the use of a toy or mobile to grab their attention. Any soft toy that he can easily hold or a mobile that captivates him will make diapering the active child much easier.

A Note About Circumcision

For uncircumcised babies, refrain from pulling back the foreskin. Simply clean the area exposed to the soiled diaper with a wipe or cloth. The existing foreskin will do its job of keeping germs and infections out underneath.

For circumcised infants, the area around the circumcision site may remain sensitive for a few days. Apply a water barrier ointment to the tip of his penis to avoid infection or burning from urination that can be painful to your baby.

Cord Care

You must be extra gentle around the belly button for the first few weeks of your baby’s life. The remaining portion of your baby’s umbilical cord will need time to heal and fall away. It’s up to you to help it heal by taking extra measures to care for the area.

Keep the area clean. If you need to wash it, gently wipe the area with a damp cloth or baby wipe. Do not bathe your baby until the cord has fallen away.
Keep the diaper folded beneath the cord to avoid having it pulled off inadvertently. To avoid this mishap, some infant diapers are made specifically with a notched area cut away beneath the cord.
Expose your baby’s tummy to the fresh air as often as possible. The air will help speed up the healing time.

A Few Other Tips to Keep In Mind

Allowing your baby some diaper-free time every day helps to avoid diaper rashes. It’s not easy determining when they will need that diaper, but letting them lay on a towel on the floor and allowing some fresh air to dry things out is a good idea. Fifteen minutes a day of fresh air does wonder.

Remember to play with your child during changing times. This time together should be enjoyable for both of you. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that you’ll naturally come to enjoy these moments that you may have initially thought of as burdensome. As long as you have your supplies on hand and follow the suggestions, everything will go smoothly (most of the time!)

How to Potty Train Your Baby

2022-09-24T00:00:00Z

If you’re a first-time mom wondering how to potty train your baby, you may feel overwhelmed. Sometimes the most challenging part is figuring out when your child is ready.

Although each child’s development differs, most babies are ready to start potty training between 20 and 30 months old. You can look for behavioral and physical signs to determine when your child is ready.

Physical readiness

Your child should be able to walk and run easily, with minimal falling. It should also have enough fine motor skills to remove clothing and tear a piece of toilet paper from the roll.

The bladder and bowel muscles also need to be developed enough. Signs that he can control these muscles include staying dry for at least two hours and well-formed bowel movements that happen at predictable times.

Developmentally, babies generally do not have control over their bowel and bladder muscles before 18 months.

Behavioral readiness

Your child should show an interest in potty training. It will be curious about other people’s toilet habits and may express a desire to start wearing “big girl” underwear.

The child should understand the concept of using the toilet and may begin to be able to identify the feeling of “needing to go”. It should be able to speak well enough to communicate with you when it needs to use the toilet. Encourage conversation about these topics, and talk positively about the benefits of potty training.

Ideal times to start training

Start potty training when your home is in a stable environment. Avoid beginning in the middle of significant changes, like a divorce or a move. Pick a time when your child is going through a cooperative phase.

Realize that upheavals in your routine can cause your child to regress, so don’t be concerned if accidents happen in response to changes in her environment.

Potty training first steps

Make potty training fun and exciting! Take your child potty shopping with you and let it help select the potty it will use. Let it pick out some “big kid” underwear, too.

Start potty training in sessions of a few hours each. Put your child in his “big kid” underwear in the morning. Let it eat and play as usual but put him on the potty every 15 minutes.

Praise them when it’s successful, but don’t shame if an accident happens. At this stage, you’ll need to wipe after a bowel movement.

After a couple of hours, put back on a diaper or pull-up. Repeat this process in the afternoon. (Some experts recommend going directly from full-time diapers to full-time underwear, skipping the potty training sessions. It’s OK to try this if you prefer it.)

Incorporate play into potty training. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, let the animal use the potty, too. Read some books about potty training with your child. Diapers Are Not Forever, by Elizabeth Verdick, and Everyone Poops, by Taro Gomi are both excellent book choices.

If your child is receptive to these potty training sessions, keep doing them. After several days, try an all-day session instead of one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Your child should begin to recognize the urge to urinate or defecate and will start to tell you when it needs to go.

If your child resists potty training, it’s better to stop and try again in a month. Toilet training should not feel like a battle of wills. If it does, your child isn’t ready. Pushing to get it toilet trained before being ready can make the process take longer.

Intermediate potty training

It can take a month or so to have consistent dryness during the day. You can expect nighttime dryness to take longer. If your child wets the bed at night, it’s not a cause for concern at this age. Try limiting liquids in the hour before bedtime.

As your child gets good at using her potty, you can start teaching her to wipe herself. She’ll be able to master wiping urine reasonably quickly, but she’ll likely continue to need help after a bowel movement until age 4 or 5.

When you introduce wiping, be sure to introduce hand washing simultaneously. Provide a safe stepping stool to reach the sink, and demonstrate proper washing technique with soap and water.

Eventually, it will be ready to use the regular toilet instead of her potty. You may need to provide a stool or a small bench to help her climb onto the toilet and give her something to put her feet on while she’s sitting.

Other things to keep in mind

Make sure your child’s pants are easy to pull down. A stubborn snap or a button that won’t open is an accident waiting to happen.

Carry a spare set of your child’s pants and underwear in your car even after he’s mastered potty training around the house. Accidents aren’t uncommon when he’s out of his home, especially at first.

Make sure your child gets regular checkups to assess developmental milestones. Ask your pediatrician about any concerns you’re having with toilet training.

Celebrate! Potty training is a big deal, and it’s essential to acknowledge your child’s steps toward this important milestone.

Why is my Baby not eating at Daycare? (and how to fix it)

2022-09-25T00:00:00Z

There are numerous reasons why yourbaby is not eating at daycare. Maybe they feel pressured, bored, distracted, sick, or experiencing separation anxiety. Sometimes it could even be a combination of a few of these reasons. If you can identify why they are having difficulty eating while at daycare, you can make the necessary changes and get them to eat again.

Common reasons why your Baby does not eat at Daycare

Sending your baby to daycare presents a significant change in routine for your little one. For the first time in their lives, they are away from their parents, in a new environment, and adjusting can take some time.

That is why despite preparing delicious and nutritious food for them, you still find they aren’t eating as much as they should, if they are eating at all. Here are a few reasons why:

Separation anxiety.

Joining daycare presents a significant change in your baby’s life. Up until this moment, they are accustomed to being near you. You are familiar, a source of comfort, and know what and when to feed them, so there’s little likelihood they would refuse to eat or be fussy about it.

However, they are in a new environment at daycare, and you are not around as much. Experiencing a bit of separation anxiety is normal, but it can cause them not to eat.

Too much pressure.

When your little one refuses to eat, it can make you anxious because they can easily fall sick. This can lead you to push them to eat, and this pressure can make them not want to eat.

Boredom.

Another reason why your baby is not eating at daycare is that they are bored by the meals they are getting. This is especially true if the daycare offers meals. It’s hard to provide a variety of meals to suit every child, and your little one can become bored with what they are offering.

Your little one is distracted.

The toys, books, new faces, and environment can easily distract your little one, especially if this is the first time they attend daycare. If they are engrossed in their play, they won’t pay too much attention to their food.

A new environment.

A change in environment can cause emotional distress, affecting how your child eats. The new faces and being away from what is familiar can cause considerable discomfort, making your little one lose their appetite.

The portions are too big.

If your kid is served too much food, the thought of having to finish all that food can put them off. Additionally, if they get too many liquids, such as juice, water, or milk, they will not have any more room to eat.

A medical issue.

Your little one could refuse to eat because they are sick or have a medical issue affecting their eating ability.

Solutions you can try to help your baby eat at daycare

Babies have to eat. When they refuse, you have to do what you can to uncover why they don’t want to eat. Once you figure this out, employ any of these fixes to get them back on track and feel more comfortable with mealtimes at daycare.

1. Match the daycare feeding schedule to the one you keep at home.

You can solve your baby’s eating issue by matching daycare meal times to your home schedule. Kids thrive on routine, so matching their meal times with your home schedule will make them hungry at scheduled times.

2. Don’t pressure them.

Kids are sensitive to your emotions and can sense your anxiety in this situation. While it can be difficult, try to remain calm and don’t let them sense the stress you are feeling because your baby is not eating at daycare.

Do not pressure them to eat. It will not work. Don’t push food closer, hover, talk about their lack of eating or try to spoon-feed them. You are indirectly pressuring them. Instead, let your little one self-feed and eat at their own pace. Don’t hover or try to hurry things along. Let them be in control of how much they eat.

3. Feed them a balanced meal before taking them to daycare.

If your baby is still not eating at daycare, you don’t want them force-fed. This can create a stressful, upsetting situation where your child gets upset about going to daycare. To prevent this, feed them a well-balanced meal before dropping them off. If they are already full when they get to the daycare center, you don’t have to worry about them not eating. Simply pack a few snacks or comfort foods to top them off while there.

4. Consider reducing their snacks.

Some daycare centers offer snacks to keep the little ones occupied. However, if your little one eats too many snacks, they can fill up on them, leaving no room for meals. If this is the case, talk to your daycare provider about reducing the snacks your little one has, so they have room for meals.

5. Make their food enjoyable.

Offer your kid a variety of foods in manageable portions to switch things up. You don’t have to change the food; switching up serving styles can help spur them into eating again. If raw foods are too crunchy, try steaming them. Additionally, you can play around with vegetable shapes to get them interested in their food. Cut their veggies in coins, fries, strips, or cubes and experiment to see what they like.

6. Comfort them.

The emotional stress of being in a new environment can affect your baby’s appetite. First, try dropping by during mealtimes to see if they are eating and adjusting well. Your presence can be incredibly comforting to your baby, making them comfortable enough to eat as they should.

Call them during meal times if you cannot make it there in person and encourage them to eat. Ask them about what they are eating and remind them how much they like a particular food. This will make them look forward to meal times and spur them to eat more.

7. Make sure they are not sick.

Lastly, make sure your child has no medical issue that can affect their ability to eat. Several conditions can cause reduced appetite and cause your little one to become a picky eater. Sensory issues, discomfort, or trauma are a few reasons that can affect their eating. Consult your pediatrician if you suspect your baby is sick, which is why they are not eating.

Taking your baby to daycare is stressful enough, but it can be pretty demoralizing if you find out they refuse to eat. Still, as soon as you find out the root cause, you can start fixing the problem.

How to get rid of Bingo Wings? (Exercises & Nutrition explained)

2022-09-27T00:00:00Z

Are you looking to get rid of nagging bingo wings? Then, you’ve come to the right place!

Located in the same area as the tricep muscles, bingo wings are the sagging underarm fat that many women, and some men, struggle with. Bingo wings are commonly found in older women or those with a higher body fat percentage. This fatty area can deal a hefty blow to one’s ego and self-confidence. That’s why we’re here with a guide on how to get rid of bingo wings!

It’s essential to recognize that bingo wings can not be “spot reduced.” The idea of spot-reducing fat or “toning” one area has been proven false and is not backed by scientific studies. In this article, we’ll show you how to effectively utilize a combination of exercise, diet, and activity to encourage the fat loss needed to get rid of bingo wings.

Top 5 Exercises to help with Bingo Wings

Do you want to target nagging bingo wings in the gym? Then, check out these top five exercises used to strengthen the upper body, tighten the arms, and get rid of bingo wings!

1. Push-Ups

Push-ups are an effective exercise to target bingo wings. A full-body exercise, push-ups can be done anywhere without needing any equipment. There are also plenty of variations of push-ups like incline push-ups, weighted push-ups, and triangle, also called diamond, push-ups, to consider in terms of engaging and strengthening the upper body to help get rid of bingo wings.

2. Tricep Extensions

Tricep extensions offer a variety of modifications that can use dumbbells, cables, and curl bars to change resistance when hitting the triceps.

Concerning bingo wings, this area is located in the same area as the triceps. Commonly found in women, bingo wings can be reduced and/or eliminated through diet and exercise.

By training the triceps through exercises like tricep extensions, you are aiding your goal of getting rid of bingo wings. How? By tightening the area to prevent sagging skin through strength training the triceps.

3. Bent-Over Row with Neutral Grip

Though the bent-over row with a neutral grip primarily targets the latissimus dorsi, or lat, muscles, this exercise also engages the back of the arms or triceps.

This exercise is often completed using dumbbells due to the accessibility needed for the movement in a neutral grip position. Still, a bent-over row with a neutral grip can also be achieved using other pieces of exercise equipment. Landmine rows using a t-bar or single-arm modification are other significant changes of this effective movement. There are other modifications to this movement that can be done using a cable machine as well!

5. Standing Dumbbell Y-Raises

A standing dumbbell y-raise is different from a lying dumbbell raise in that they target other muscles.

The standing dumbbell y-raise mainly targets the shoulders and the triceps where bingo wings lie. This exercise engages upper body muscles like the deltoids, biceps, and triceps to help target the arms as a whole for a toned and aesthetic look.

5. Military Press

Targeting the deltoids, triceps, and biceps, the military press is an all-around great upper body exercise that can be used to get rid of bingo wings by strengthening the arms. A military press is often completed with dumbbells or a barbell to encourage progressive overload and continual progress in and out of the gym.

The Importance of Diet

Without a proper diet, you may not have the best results in the gym when trying to target bingo wings. And why is that?

Initially, you may find some progress in your efforts to add exercise to your weekly routine.

This is due to an increase in energy expenditure (think calories expended through exercise or being more active), which then encourages a caloric deficit (the number of calories below your TDEE, or total daily energy expenditure) needed for fat loss.

This may only last for so long, hence the importance of diet. In this case, “diet” does not refer to weight loss trends like keto, weight loss teas, etc. “Diet” refers to what foods you are eating. When aiming for “fat loss,” which is needed to get rid of bingo wings, a person must be in a caloric deficit. In regards to fitness, this is, in the majority, done by combining a caloric deficit with increased caloric expenditure through strength training or other forms of exercise.

To indeed “target” bingo wings, it is highly recommended to combine these two methods. As always, if there are any questions or concerns, consult with your doctor or a certified personal trainer to address bingo wings more in-depth with the guidance of a professional.

The Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

As discussed above, an active lifestyle should be combined with a quality diet to obtain the best results in getting rid of bingo wings.

An active lifestyle is often promoted due to its vast benefits like decreased risk of disease, increased strength in the bones and muscles, weight management, and more. However, exercising at home or the gym increases your daily energy expenditure needed, combined with a caloric deficit, to lose fat. This is how you will successfully get rid of bingo wings!

Final Thoughts

Dealing with nagging bingo wings can be incredibly uncomfortable and damage one’s self-confidence. That’s where this article comes in!

From the top five exercises to target bingo wings to the importance of diet and an active lifestyle, we’ve discussed how to get rid of bingo wings once and for all successfully. Add these exercises to your weekly routine, performing these engaging movements anywhere from 2-4 times a week for the best results. Make sure to challenge yourself, be disciplined, and ensure your diet is up to par, and those undesirable bingo wings will be out of your way for good!

15 Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Babies

2022-10-02T00:00:00Z

Is your baby starting to eat solid foods? When your pediatrician says that your baby is ready (generally around six months), you can begin to introduce “grown-up” food to your little one.

Breakfast is adults’ most important meal of the day, and the same holds true for babies. The food your baby eats first thing in the morning should replenish the calories he’s burned overnight and jumpstart his metabolism for the day. Try to include some protein, some carbohydrates, and some nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables in your baby’s first meal of the day.

Here are 15 healthy breakfast ideas for babies who are beginning to eat solids. (Make sure you check with your pediatrician about eggs, cow’s milk, and cheese to ensure your baby is ready for these).

Spoon-Fed Foods

Babies can eat and digest “mushy” food quickly, but you’ll have to feed these foods to your baby with a spoon until she learns to handle eating utensils.

1. Oatmeal or porridge

Oatmeal is a spoon-fed favorite for both babies and moms. If you’re making oatmeal from scratch, grind up the oats with a food processor before cooking to make the oatmeal easier for your baby to digest. Top the oatmeal with applesauce or chopped fruit to make it tastier.

2. Porridge

Porridge can be made from various grains, including rice (whole grains, flakes, or flour), barley flour, sago pearls/sabudana, or ragi. Once you’ve cooked the porridge, add some fruit to give it flavor and extra nutrients.

Mashed ripe pear, mashed mango, mashed banana, or unsweetened stewed apples are all great choices. Try adding a little cinnamon or ground cloves for flavor variety.

3. Vegetable Purees

If your baby likes purees, you can make many great breakfasts in your blender or food processor. Ensure you have a blender that can handle hot foods and liquids unless you plan to let your vegetables cool before pureeing them. (The Vitamix 5200 Pro is an excellent example of a blender that can handle hot and cold foods.)

To make a vegetable puree, chop and then steam or boil your choice of vegetable until soft. Put the cooked vegetable in your blender and puree it, adding a small amount of the cooking water until the puree reaches the desired consistency.

For a thicker texture and more nutrition, add some cooked rice to the mixture and puree it more in the blender. Cool the puree to a safe temperature and give your baby a serving as part of a balanced breakfast.

Tip: freeze the remaining puree in an ice cube tray for handy individual servings you can thaw one or two at a time.

4. Vegetable puree with meat

Once your pediatrician has okayed meat for your baby, you can add some small pieces of cooked meat to the blender with your vegetable puree. Be sure to select parts of meat that don’t have any bone or tough gristle.

5. Mashed vegetables

When your baby can handle a chunkier texture, you can switch from pureeing vegetables to mashing them with a fork or a potato masher. Root vegetables mash particularly well – try carrots, sweet potatoes, yams, parsnips, turnips, or rutabagas. For added sweetness, mash in some cooked apple with any of these root vegetables.

6. Dairy

Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a healthy spoon-fed choice for your baby, and so is plain cottage cheese. Add mashed or sliced fruit to make it more exciting and tasty.

Finger Foods

Your baby will enjoy experiencing different textures and flavors as he starts to eat solid food. Giving your baby food items he can pick up in his fingers is a great way to help him practice fine motor skills, so don’t limit yourself to spoon-fed meals!

1. Toast strips

Try toast strips for breakfast food that your baby can pick up easily. There’s no need to put anything on the toast strips, as most babies like plain toast just the way it is.

2. Pita bread and hummus

Cut a piece of pita bread into manageable pieces for your baby. Dip the pita bread in hummus for some added flavor and protein.

3. Fruit chunks

Chunks of fruit work well as finger food, although they can be slippery when your baby is first learning to pick them up. Try leaving the skin on the part of a banana chunk to make it easier to pick up. Your baby will figure out quickly that the skin is not the tasty part.

4. Peanut butter

As long as your child doesn’t have a nut allergy, peanut butter is an excellent source of protein. Dip chunks of fruit or bread in peanut butter to make your baby’s breakfast more delicious and nutritious.

5. Hard-boiled eggs

For a good source of protein, try a hard-boiled egg cut into manageable pieces. For less mess, give him just the whites of the egg.

6. Scrambled eggs

Scrambled eggs are soft, easy finger food, too (make sure the eggs are cool enough for your baby to touch before you give them to her). You can add some veggies while cooking the scrambled eggs for extra nutrition.

7. Cooked whole vegetables

Cooked whole vegetables are tasty and fun! Try cooking string beans, snap peas, baby carrots, or broccoli pieces and giving them to your baby once they’re cool enough to handle.

8. Baked goods

Baked goods made with healthy grains and not much sugar can be good choices, too. Whole grain pancakes, multigrain muffins, egg and veggie frittatas, and sweet potato hash browns can all be given to your baby as delicious, healthy breakfast items.

9. Soups or stews

Most soups or stews you make for yourself can also be given to your baby, although you should pass anything with large chunks through the blender first. Transforming last night’s leftovers into this morning’s baby breakfast is a great time-saver!

Like adults, babies appreciate variety. Give your baby lots of different foods for breakfast (and other meals) to keep her interested and to ensure that she gets complete, balanced nutrition.

When do Babies grow Eyebrows and Eyelashes?

2022-10-02T00:00:00Z

Many parents are surprised to find their baby has a distinct lack of eyebrows and eyelashes at birth, but this occurrence only lasts for a few weeks.

Babies grow their eyebrows and eyelashes around two to three months, as their hair becomes thicker and fuller. It is important to note some babies who are born with thicker, darker hair may already have eyebrows at birth.

This article will give you more information for parents curious about what to expect as their baby grows eyebrows and eyelashes.

In this article, you will learn:

When eyebrow development begins
Why babies’ eyebrows are so light at birth
When eyebrows become visible
What to do if your baby’s eyebrows fall out
If there are any ways to encourage eyebrow growth
If a baby’s eyebrows can change color
Factors determining eyebrow prominence
If a baby’s eyebrows appear red
If it’s safe to draw eyebrows on your baby

When does eyebrow development begin?

Babies begin developing eyebrows around twenty-two weeks of gestation as their hair follicles start the maturation process. While in the utero, all babies’ hair is non-pigmented, regardless of ethnicity; as they continue to develop, it may darken and thicken or remain thin and light.

Although they may be challenging to see, it’s extremely rare for a baby to be complete without eyebrows or eyelashes at all at birth.

Why are babies eyebrows so light at birth?

There are several reasons that cause a newborn’s eyebrows and eyelashes to appear so light at birth. These include:

Length of gestation (premature birth, on time, or a late delivery)
The baby’s ethnicity
Genetics from the parents, including hair thickness and color

When do eyebrows become visible?

Babies’ eyebrows become visible around the two-month mark but will continue to darken over time. If your baby has extremely thin, light hair, it may take longer for their eyelashes and eyebrows to show, but most appear no later than four months.

What to do if your baby’s eyebrows fall out

It’s very common for babies to lose their hair after birth, and their eyebrows and eyelashes are no exception. Babies often experience cradle cap or seborrhea dermatitis, a skin condition causing a rash or scaling along the scalp. This condition is due to excess glands which produce too much oil.

While cradle cap commonly affects the scalp, it may spread to other areas, including the eyebrows, causing them to fall out temporarily. While unpleasant, cradle cap is not a serious condition, and there are many at-home treatment options that will clear your baby’s skin, allowing their hair and eyebrows to regrow.

Are there any ways to encourage eyebrow growth?

While there are no medical treatments to grow a baby’s eyebrows, parents have found several at-home remedies that may encourage growth. It’s important to note that a baby’s skin is very sensitive, and you should never begin any treatments without consulting your pediatrician.

Aloe Vera – Fresh, pure Aloe Vera can encourage hair growth and help heal and restore a baby’s skin. By applying the pulp from the Aloe plant and allowing it to sit on the eyebrow for around half an hour, you can enhance the existing hair and encourage new growth.

You must never use commercial Aloe as it often contains chemical ingredients that can harm your baby. Instead, use the pulp from a plant without pesticide or chemical treatments.

Coconut Oil – Coconut oil is beneficial to sensitive skin and is considered to have hair growth capabilities. Massage a small amount into your baby’s eyebrows, following the hair pattern, for best results. Always use organic, virgin, and food-grade coconut oils to ensure the safety of the ingredients.

Be Patient – The best option for hair growth is patience, allowing your baby’s eyebrows and eyelashes to develop over time. As long as they’re receiving a healthy diet and getting plenty of sleep, your baby will begin developing eyebrows around three months of age.

Can a baby’s eyebrows change color?

As your baby ages, its hair will continue to thicken, and it’s not uncommon for its eyebrows and eyelashes to change color. They will most likely go through a few different hair shades before their final color is revealed, with many babies starting with black hair and ending on blonde or vice versa!

Many factors determine a baby’s eyebrow prominence, including:

Gestation length
Parental genetics
Amount of hair at birth
Hair Color

Can A Baby’s Eyebrows Appear Red?

Yes, there are times when you may find your baby’s eyebrows appear red. This occurrence is generally due to sleepiness, but it may also appear regardless of mood. Many babies may have the red hair gene MC1R, which makes them have red hair on specific body parts and not others.

Is it safe to draw eyebrows on my baby?

If you find you don’t want to wait for your baby’s eyebrows to grow naturally, you may wonder if it’s ok to draw them on. This trend is becoming quite popular, especially on social media, and is generally harmless. However, if you choose to draw eyebrows on your little one, always use an FDA-approved, non-toxic eyebrow pencil created for sensitive skin.

Under no circumstances should you ever use a marker, Sharpie, paint, or other material on your baby.

Babies born with light eyebrows and eyelashes will develop darker hairs around two to three months of age. While there are unproven at-home remedies to encourage hair growth, the best course of action is patience and waiting for nature to take its course.

Many factors determine the color and thickness of your baby’s eyebrows, including genetics and gestational length. Still, regardless of how they appear at birth, your little one will most likely have beautiful full eyebrows before you know it.

A Mom's Fear: Why doesn't my Baby love me?

2022-10-02T00:00:00Z

For many women, having a baby is a thrilling experience. But many new mothers experience an emotion that is not so cheerful. Those moms become overwhelmed with a sense that their babies don’t love them, causing anxiety, sadness, and doubt.

If your baby doesn’t seem to miss you or want you to hold them, you might feel they don’t like you. In some cases, it could be an issue called Reactive Attachment Disorder. This condition occurs when a baby misses the critical early bonding time with their mother or caregivers. But in other cases, it could be that you’re feeling anxious or doubtful, misinterpreting your baby’s behavior.

If you feel as if your baby doesn’t like you, it’s essential to know the potential reasons. When you better understand your feelings and the situation, you’ll see what you need to do to work through it.

Can Babies reject their Mothers?

It’s not typical for a baby to reject its mother unless the mother neglects to care for the baby. In this situation, your baby could develop a condition known as Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). But, sometimes, it might seem like your baby doesn’t like you because of how you interpret their behaviors.

It’s important to remember your baby isn’t capable of forming an opinion of you as an older child or adult would. If you feel like your baby is rejecting you, it’s not because they don’t like you. But, it could be because they don’t know you.

What is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

According to WebMD, Reactive Attachment Disorder potentially develops when a baby misses out on early bonding time with their primary caregivers. These caregivers are typically the baby’s parents. The condition usually develops in children under five years of age.

Typically, during the first few months of life, a baby develops a bond with their parents, especially their mothers. This bond strengthens through soothing your infant, regular care, love, talking to your baby, holding them, etc.

However, in situations where this care is not present and there is negligence, this bond cannot form. Therefore, the baby cannot develop as it would with essential care and attention.

Older children, teens, and adults can all show various signs of Reactive Attachment Disorder, with symptoms changing as the person ages. If you catch attachment disorders early on, you can often correct them. However, if left unchecked, babies with attachment disorders will continue to have problems as they grow.

People with attachment disorders struggle to develop emotional connections or handle new situations. They can also typically exhibit behavior issues and communication struggles.

In some cases, children with RAD can go in the opposite direction. Instead of not wanting to connect, they excessively seek attention. It is their way of making up for the attention they missed out on as an infant.

Four Reasons you think your Baby doesn’t love you

Your baby doesn’t miss you.
Your baby doesn’t want you to hold them.
You feel like your baby doesn’t know you.
Your baby seems to prefer others.

What if you were there every second of your baby’s life? From day one, you held your baby, played and sang to your infant, and met their every need. Yet, you still get an overwhelming sense that your baby doesn’t love you.

You’re not alone. Many moms feel this doubt, and it’s often because of the following reasons.

1. My Baby doesn’t miss me

You feel like your baby doesn’t miss you when you are away. You return home eager to see your baby when you leave, whether a quick jaunt to the store or a full work day. However, your baby doesn’t seem as happy to see you as you are.

2. My Baby doesn’t want me to hold them

Another reason you might feel like your baby doesn’t like you is that they resist you holding them. When your baby doesn’t want you to hold them, it can make you feel like they don’t love you.

3. My Baby acts like they don’t know me

Do you sometimes feel your baby doesn’t know who you are? Perhaps they cry when you enter the room. Or they don’t seem to show any acknowledgment or excitement when they see you. It’s easy for a mom to think their baby doesn’t love them when their infant doesn’t even appear to recognize them.

4. My Baby seems to like Others more than me

If your baby gets super excited when they see your partner, grandparent, or sibling, it’s natural for you to hope for the same response. However, if your baby is less interested in you than the other people in their life, it can cause feelings of doubt. You can start to think; maybe my baby doesn’t love me.

What can you do if you think your Baby doesn’t like you?

Your first step is to speak with your doctor and your pediatrician. If medical professionals suspect something like RAD might be at play, they will likely refer you to a psychologist. Treatment for RAD often focuses on the primary caregiver or caregivers. You might also need to attend parenting classes.

However, what if it’s not something as serious as RAD? You’ve been with your baby from day one, ensuring they get all the love and attention possible. So, why do they seem like they don’t like you?

You might be misreading your Baby’s Behavior

You’re likely misinterpreting your baby’s actions and responses. This is especially the case for moms since, typically, moms are home with their newborns the most.

When your partner or someone new comes home, your baby is excited to see someone new. Maybe they’re crying more with you because they know you can fix whatever is bothering them. They’re saying, “Hey, mom! You know what to do! Come help me!”

Also, because you’re spending lots of time with your new bundle of joy, you’re likely exhausted and maybe a little grumpy. These emotions can trigger certain feelings in your baby. They can also make you assume the worst if your baby negatively responds to you.

Ask for help if you think your Baby doesn’t love you

Try not to take it to heart if you feel like your baby doesn’t love you. Instead, talk about your feelings with your healthcare provider. They can help you come up with coping strategies and steps you can take to adjust your way of thinking.

It’s also important to be open with your doctors in case something deeper is at play, like postpartum depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, postpartum depression can make it difficult to bond with your baby.

Never try to ignore your feelings or concerns. Always recognize your emotions, and talk with someone who can help you healthily work through them.

Leah says:

3 years ago at 4:55 pm

This article annoyed me. I read it hoping it would address all of the ‘common reasons for doubting whether your baby loves you’ but it didn’t. A better written article would give evidence of why these doubts aren’t founded and translate baby behaviour.

Jackie says:

3 years ago at 9:35 am

If you are reading this article because you are anxious/ upset that your child appears to be rejecting you, Know that 1) you are not alone 2) this article is unhelpful at best. If you are concerned enough to look up an article on why your baby may be rejecting you there is an incredibly high chance that neglecting your child early in life is not the cause. I hope the moms reading this don’t internalize this message and that we can normalize this feeling of rejection which happens to many mothers and fathers who are securely attached to their babies/children. Many families have dealt with this and come out the other side.

My take always from my own experience and research: Rejection hurts, your baby loves you, (though they are not communicating it in the way we think they should), and Many other people and articles promote refocussing on having fun and loving them unconditionally, which is an ultimate act of love in the face of your own feeling of rejection. You got this, you are loved and valued, and we’re in this together.

Lucy says:

3 years ago at 12:36 pm

Your last sentence, I needed that .. thank you

Reply
Hannah says:

2 years ago at 4:08 pm

Thank you so much. I needed your response. This article had me spiraling and definitely made my anxiety worse, but your response is so comforting and hopeful.

Reply
Pat says:

3 years ago at 10:41 am

What if your mother doesn’t love you!

Laura says:

3 years ago at 11:27 pm

This made me weep. Thank you.

When to Switch From Diapers to Pull-Ups?

2022-10-18T00:00:00Z

Once, parents only used pull-up’s for potty training. They’d spend months battling sticky tabs while their wriggly toddler would twist, flip, and squirm through every diaper change.

Fortunately, technology has moved on. Pull-ups are now as absorbent as regular diapers, and you can start using them when your baby is just one year old. Plus, there’s a new kid on the block. Diaper pants. A handy halfway point between a pull-up and a regular diaper that your baby can wear from six months old.

When to Transition From Diapers to Pull-Ups

There’s no specific age to transition to pull-ups. Now that their absorbency rivals that of a standard diaper, they’re not just for potty training anymore.

However, it’s usually best to wait until your child can stand independently. After all, they’re designed to pull up, not wriggle over a lying down bottom.

You might want to make the switch if:

● Your Child Is Finding Diapers Uncomfortable

Active children might start to find the rigid waistband of diapers restrictive. The elastic waist of a pull-up is more flexible and comfortable for kids on the move.

● Your Active Toddler is Resisting Diaper Changes

If getting your toddler to lie down while you do up diaper tabs is becoming a struggle, try pull-ups. Your child can stand as you put them on or they might even be able to do it themselves.

● You’ve Started Potty Training

When your child is ready for potty training, pull-ups can make the process easier. The change from regular diapers will make your child feel like a big kid, they can pull them up and down by themselves, and they will be able to feel when they’ve had an accident.

What Is the Difference Between Pull-Ups and Diapers?

There are two main differences between pull-ups and diapers.

Firstly, the waistband of a pull-up is elasticated, and it can be put on and taken off like regular underwear. Diapers don’t have any elastic and rely on sticky tabs to secure them.

Secondly, diapers have a feel-dry layer that wicks moisture away from your baby’s skin. This helps keep them happy and dry. Pull-ups don’t have a feel-dry layer. This is because the feeling of wetness will encourage your toddler to use the potty the next time they need to pee.

Then there’s the new product on the market, diaper pants. These are a pull-up/diaper hybrid. They have all the absorbency and feel-dry technology of a regular diaper with the elasticated waistband of a pull-up. Super cozy!

These differences make for a huge variation in comfort, leakage, and convenience between the three products. Check out this comparison table for the details.


Features	Pull-Ups	Diaper Pants	Diapers
Waistband	Elasticated waistband that stretches as your child moves. They can be pulled up and down just like underwear.	Elasticated waistband just like a traditional pull-up.	Non-stretch waistband with adhesive tabs that provide a snug fit.
Size	Size 4+ Most brands start at size 4. However, some do come in size 3.	Size 3-8	Preemie – Size 7
Age	1 – 9 years +	6 months – 3 years	Preemie – 2 years
Leak Protection	Most brands claim to offer the same absorbency as diapers. However, parents report the elastic makes them more prone to leaks at night. You can buy nighttime pull-ups to solve this issue.	Great leak protection. The back normally rises higher than traditional pull-ups, reducing leaks.	Excellent leak protection, especially if you choose diapers with a back pocket to prevent blowouts. Genius!
Comfort	Designed to feel wet.	Dry-feel layer that wicks away moisture.	Dry-feel layer that wicks away moisture.
Price	More expensive	Similar to regular diapers	Less Expensive
Design	Great patterns and pictures, which make them fun for kids.	Similar to regular diapers	Fewer fun designs

Are Pull-Ups Easier to Use Than Diapers?

Pull-Ups and diaper pants can be much easier to use than regular diapers, as long as you realize you’re supposed to rip the sides to take them off. Trying to slide a soiled pull-up down over a wriggly child’s legs is a recipe for disaster.

Pull-ups and pants are also much better for an active child who resists lying down for a diaper change. Yes, they may still have to lie on a changing mat for clean-up, but as soon as that’s done, they can stand to put on their pull-up. If you’re really lucky, they might even put it on themselves.

Unfortunately, pull-ups aren’t perfect. The main difficulty is that you must fully remove your child’s trousers or tights to put on a new one. So if you don’t fancy wrestling your toddler back into tights six times a day, stick with diapers.

How Do You Change a Pull-up Diaper?

To change a pull-up or diaper pants:

Rip both sides along the seam.
Fold, making sure the contents can’t escape.
Secure with the tape.
Stretch out a clean diaper using both hands.
Pop your child’s feet through the leg holes.
Slide the pull-up up and over their bottom.
If you have a boy, make sure his penis is pointing downwards; otherwise, you risk a leak.

Should You Use Pull-Ups for Potty Training?

Pull-ups can be a great potty training tool because they:

Feel different to diapers, so your child doesn’t forget that they’re potty training.
Let your child feel wetness, a sensation they should want to avoid.
Can be used independently for trips to the potty.
Come in cool, big kid designs.

However, they’re not a necessity. Some studies have suggested that skipping pull-ups and going straight to big kid underwear can speed up toilet training. It’s cheaper too! If you’ve got a new couch or nice carpet, though, it might not be worth the risk.

FAQs

At What Age Should You Switch From Diapers to Pull-Ups?

Most parents switch to pull-ups for potty training at between 2 and 3 years old on average. Some never use them at all.

If you want to switch to an elastic waist sooner, diaper pants are great for babies over six months old.

Are Pull-Ups as Absorbent as Diapers?

Technically, pull-ups are as absorbent as diapers. In lab tests, they’ll hold the same amount of liquid. However, some parents find the elastic waists aren’t as secure as regular diapers. Especially overnight.

Nighttime pull-ups are the way to go if your little one frequently wets the bed. Or, stick to diapers at nighttime until your little one can stay dry.

Which is Cheaper, Pull-Ups or Diapers?

Pull-ups typically cost more than diapers. However, if your little one can pull them up and down to visit the potty, you might find that you use fewer per day.

Can I Use Pull-Ups as Diapers?

Yes, you can use pull-ups as early as six months if your baby finds diapers uncomfortable. You don’t need to be potty training to use them as they are just as absorbent as regular diapers.

How to Check Your Cervix for Dilation: A Step-By-Step Guide

2022-10-24T00:00:00Z

You can check cervix dilation at home by performing a quick pelvic exam using two clean fingers. It’s pretty much the same way your doctor would do it.

However, if you’d prefer something non-invasive, there’s another way. You can use the mysterious purple line that appears in your butt crack. Handy!

Measuring Cervical Dilation

1. Ask Your Medical Professional First

If you have a cervical stitch, placenta previa, a history of dilation issues, or your waters have broken, it’s not safe to check your own cervix. If in doubt, ask your doctor or midwife.

2. Wash Your Hands

Before you start, thoroughly wash your hands, trim your nails and remove any jewelry. This will minimize the risk of introducing bacteria, which could cause infection.

3. Get Into a Comfortable Position

The best positions include squatting, standing with one leg up on the bathtub, or lying on the floor with your legs resting on the couch.

4. Insert Two Fingers

Carefully insert your middle and index fingers into your vagina.

5. Locate Your Cervix

Think of your vagina as a corridor; the cervix is the door at the end. Undilated, it will feel like lips puckered for a kiss. As it dilates, it may feel more like a rubbery circle surrounding your bag of waters.

6. Check the Dilation

Gently try to insert your fingers into your cervix. If you can insert one finger, you’re 1 centimeter dilated. Two fingers means you’re 2 centimeters dilated, and so on.

7. What to Do Next

All women dilate at different rates, so 3 centimeters could mean you’ll give birth today or a few weeks from now. If you’re 4 or more centimeters dilated, you’re in active labor, and you should go to a hospital or prepare for your home birth.

Measuring Dilation During Labor

Measuring your dilation during active labor gets tricky. Not just because of the contractions but also because you’ll be over 4 cm dilated and won’t want to insert two hands. Instead, estimate the dilation by spreading your fingers and use the dilation chart below as a guide.

[wptb id=5537]

The Red/Purple Line Method

If you can’t or don’t want to physically check your cervix, the red/purple line method is a non-invasive alternative. Around 76% of women develop a purple line in their natal cleft, also known as their butt crack, during labor. If you have one, it’s quick and safe to check.

Use a mirror or ask your partner or doula to look for a purple line. It will start near your anus.
Keep checking the line as your labor progresses. It will move up between your buttocks.
When the line reaches the top of your cleft, or butt crack, you are fully dilated.

What You Need to Know About Dilation

Does Checking Your Cervix Dilation Hurt?

Checking your own cervix dilation should not hurt. Too much pressure or poking could cause bruising or even break the amniotic sac, so you should be very gentle. If you feel any pain, remove your fingers.

It also shouldn’t hurt when a doctor or midwife checks cervical dilation. However, lots of women do find it uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Remember, you can refuse any unwanted examinations during your pregnancy and labor.

How Does a Doctor Check for Dilation?

To check your dilation, a doctor will perform a pelvic exam.

Wearing sterile gloves, they’ll insert two fingers into the vaginal canal.
They’ll feel the cervix and check the effacement, or how stretched and thin it is.
Then, they’ll measure the dilation based on finger width and experience.
In rare cases, they might use a transvaginal ultrasound to get a more precise measurement.

FAQs

Can Checking for Dilation Cause Labor?

No, checking for dilation cannot cause labor. However, sometimes your doctor or midwife will take the opportunity to do a membrane sweep. This procedure involves sweeping their finger around your cervix to separate it from the membranes. It increases the chances of labor starting within 48 hours.

Can Checking the Cervix Cause the Mucus Plug to Come Out?

Yes, checking your cervix can dislodge your mucus plug. If this happens before 36 weeks, consult your doctor, as they may wish to examine you. If you’re more than 37 weeks pregnant, losing your mucus plug is no cause for concern.

Can You Check Effacement at Home?

Yes, you can check effacement, or the softening and thinning, of your cervix at home. During your dilation check, take a moment to think about whether your cervix feels hard and thick or mushy and thin. The softer your cervix, the further along you are.

Can You Dilate Without Knowing?

Yes, your cervix can dilate with no signs or symptoms. It’s not uncommon for women to find out they are 3 centimeters dilated at a routine check-up.

How Long Does It Take To Get From 1 cm to 10 cm Dilation?

It can take hours, days, and sometimes weeks to dilate from 1 cm to 10 cm. The process is typically faster if you’ve had a baby before, but there’s no way of knowing how long it will take.

Why Is It Important to Check the Cervix Right Before Giving Birth?

It’s important not to push before the cervix is fully dilated. Pushing too soon can cause the cervix to swell and become less dilated or could result in damage to the vaginal canal.

However, this does not mean that you have to consent to a pelvic exam. An experienced professional will be able to assess your dilation in other ways. They can observe your behavior, the frequency and length of your contractions, and the position of your purple line.

How to Baby Proof a Fireplace

2022-11-01T00:00:00Z

Every year, around 8,000 children in the U.S. suffer from fireplace-related injuries. The most dangerous part of your fire is your hearth, which is a trip hazard with hard edges and pointy corners. The next biggest risk is the fire itself, which can cause painful burns to exploring toddlers.

Fortunately, these disasters are easy to prevent in your own home with safety gates, hearth bumpers, and carbon monoxide alarms. These are all easy to set up and can help you relax in front of your cozy fireplace in peace.

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Identify the Hazards

Get down to your baby’s level and note all the things they could grab, trap their fingers in, or knock into.

2. Install a Safety Gate

Use a fireplace safety gate to keep your baby away from anything hot. Aim for 90 cm from the fire.

3. Pad the Hearth

Pad your hearth with foam to prevent nasty bumps.

4. Lock Fireplace Doors

Trapping a finger in a fireplace door hurts. If you have doors, lock them with a fireplace lock if you light the fire, or use a zip tie if you don’t.

5. Remove Fireplace Tools

Fireplace tools are usually heavy and pointy. Keep them far inside your fireplace gate or lock them safely away in an inaccessible cupboard.

6. Check Ventilation

Frequently check your chimney for blockages, or hire a professional to do the job. Poor ventilation could cause smoke or carbon monoxide to flood your room.

7. Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Carbon monoxide is tasteless, odorless, and deadly. Install an alarm in any room with a fire to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

How to Child Proof Different Types of Fireplace

The best way to baby-proof a fireplace depends on what type you have and whether or not you use it.

Wood-Burning Fireplace

A fireplace safety gate is the best way to protect your baby from an open fire or stove. Don’t use a standard baby gate for the job. Choose one designed for fireplaces. It should anchor to the wall on both sides and have a gate in front of the fire.

Important: Install your safety gate at least 75 cm away from a wood-burning stove or gas fireplace and 90 cm away from an open fire. This distance means your baby won’t be able to reach the fire, and no sparks or embers will be able to reach them.

If you want to remove the risk of flying embers altogether, you can install a glass fireplace door. Remember, these get hot, so you’ll still need the safety gate. They can also trap little fingers, so lock them whenever your baby can get near.

Gas Fireplace

While accidents involving open fires are falling, burns from glass-fronted gas fires are on the rise. They look safe, but the glass can reach 390oF in just 5 minutes.

It’s now essential that all gas fires are fitted with a glass safety screen. If yours doesn’t have one, they can be custom-made and installed quickly. Look up gas fire safety screens to find a supplier in your area.

You may still need a gate to keep your little one away from the switches, though.

Electric Fireplace

Electric fires are much less risky than wood or gas and might not need much baby proofing at all. The flames aren’t real, so the glass shouldn’t get hot. However, there are still a few things to think about.

Check the Glass and Heat Vents

The glass should be touch-safe, but the vents that blow out the heat can get very hot. Hold your hand close to them to see if they pose a burn risk to your baby.

Use the Timer

Most electric fireplaces have a timer. Using it will reduce the risk of overheating if you forget to turn your fireplace off.

Never Use an Extension Cord

Extension cords can become fire hazards. So, plug your electric fireplace into a wall socket instead.

Keep Your Baby Away

Just because they’re unlikely to get burnt doesn’t mean letting your baby play near an electric fire is a good idea. They might hit the glass, pull it off its bracket, or worse, stuff things into the vents. Wall mount the fireplace at least 4 ft from the floor or use a baby gate to remove the risk.

Fireplace Hearth

Hearths are hard, raised, and usually have sharp corners. If your child can get near them, you’ll need to pad them to prevent bumps and cuts.

If you plan to use your fireplace, the safety gate will probably cover the hearth too. So you don’t need to do anything else. However, if your setup means the hearth is accessible, you should pad the edges with purpose-made fireplace hearth bumpers. These are flame-retardant and won’t melt.

If you don’t light your fire, though, there are more options:

Hearth Pad

A hearth pad is a cushion of foam cut to cover your whole hearth. You can buy them made-to-measure; some are even printed to look like tiles. Of course, if you fancy some DIY baby proofing, you could just cut your hearth shape out of a 2” foam sheet.

Pool Noodle

For an easy baby-proofing DIY, cut a pool noodle lengthways and stick it to your hearth with double-sided tape.

Interlocking Foam Tiles

Use the tiles you’ve already got to build a bumper around your hearth. Cut them to fit with a sharp knife and stick them down with double-sided tape.

Hearth Bench

If you have a stepped hearth, turn it into a bench seat. Cozy and childproof! Simply cut a foam pad to fit the whole hearth and cover it with fabric. You could sew it if you’re handy or use hot glue if you’re in a rush.

Remember – Only use these DIY ideas if you don’t light your fire.

Marble Fireplace Hearth

The easiest way to baby-proof a marble fireplace is with a safety gate, as there’s no risk of damaging the stone.

However, if you don’t light your fire and want something less intrusive, hearth bumpers or pads are a great alternative.

Be careful what you use to stick them on with, though. You can remove most tapes from marble with a razor blade and some white spirit or rubbing alcohol. But test it first.

FAQs

How Long Do You Need to Baby Proof Your Fireplace?

You can remove your fireplace baby proofing when your child is around 4 or 5 years old. However, make sure your child knows and understands the danger. Leave it up a little longer if they don’t seem to grasp the risk or are still having frequent bumps and falls.

Are Free-Standing Fire Screens Safe?

No, freestanding fire screens aren’t safe for children. Your baby could pull it on to themselves or push it into the fire.

How Long Does It Take for a Fire to Cool Down?

If you don’t like looking at your safety gate, you can remove it when the fire has cooled. But check thoroughly. Glass-front gas fireplaces can take 30 minutes to reach a safe temperature, and wood fires could harbor burning embers until the next day.

Baby Moving Like Crazy in Between Contractions - When to Worry?

2022-11-09T00:00:00Z

In labor, the little windows of time where you’re not contracting should give you a chance to rest, recover, and maybe even grab a power nap. So, it’s not ideal if your baby is moving like crazy in between contractions.

You might also worry about whether it’s normal or if there’s something wrong.

The good news is that it is usually a great sign that your baby is awake and healthy. However, very rarely, it could be the first sign of a problem. The general rule is that your baby’s movements during labor shouldn’t be very different from their usual pattern.

Is It Normal for Your Baby to Move In Between Contractions?

It’s entirely normal for your baby to move in between contractions. Many moms report their baby went wild or had a little dance party throughout labor. Not surprising, really, given that they’re being pushed, squeezed, and rudely evicted.

Generally, kicks in between contractions are a good sign. They mean that your baby is awake, alert, and healthy. But, if the movements are rhythmic, excessive, or worrying in any way, tell your doctor. It could be a sign that something is wrong.

Why Is Your Baby Moving Between Contractions?

Throughout labor, your baby will go through their regular sleep and wake cycles. This means their movements should follow the pattern you’ve come to know. However, sometimes kicks and wiggles can increase slightly, and here’s why:

You’re More Tuned in to Normal Movements During Labor

Daily life is full of distractions that keep you from noticing every flutter and kick. During labor, the safe arrival of your baby will be at the forefront of your mind. This will give you time to notice all of your baby’s movements. Between contractions, of course!

Your Baby Is Getting Into a Good Position for Birth

You’ll be happy to know that your baby will be helping you out a little during labor. If they start in a posterior position (facing your front), they’ll typically spin into an anterior position (facing your back). This is fantastic, as it’ll make labor much quicker and easier.

They’ll also do a bit of wiggling to get their head in the best position to make it through the birth canal.

Your Baby Isn’t a Fan of Contractions

Your baby has just spent nine months floating in a warm pool. Now they’re being impolitely squashed. Plus, someone has pulled the plug. It’s no surprise they have a little stretch or deliver a cheeky kick after each contraction.

Being Born Is Pretty Exciting

During your pregnancy, you probably had a few tricks to produce a wiggle or kick from your baby. These might’ve included a sugary drink, music, or lying in a certain way. In labor, you could be bouncing on a ball, making weird noises, and getting into some pretty wild positions.

Each of these is exciting for your little one and can bring on a baby dance party.

Your Baby Is in Distress

A decrease in movements and a drop in heart rate are the most crucial warning signs that your baby is in distress. But, in rare cases, a sudden increase in movements could also indicate a problem. Particularly if you’d describe them as wild, frantic, or crazy.

If this sounds like your baby’s movements, tell a health professional immediately. It could be the first sign of an issue with the cord or that your baby isn’t coping with labor.

How Much Should Your Baby Move During Labor?

During labor, healthy babies will stick to their pre-labor routine. You should feel at least ten kicks per hour. There’s no upper limit.

Unlike you, they’ll also get to sleep through some of it, usually in 40-minute cycles. So, there’s no need to worry if you don’t feel any movements for an hour or so.

However, it’s vital to tell your doctor straight away if your baby’s movements slow down, stop, or change. It could indicate that they’re in distress.

What to Do if Your Baby Is Moving Too Much During Labor

The first thing to do if you think your baby is moving too much is to speak to your healthcare provider. It’s likely that there’s nothing wrong, and they’ll be able to put your mind at ease.

Unfortunately, this will do nothing to help you rest if your baby wants to spend labor tap dancing. But there are things you can do to calm your little one down:

Avoid caffeine, as it can stimulate your little one.
Don’t eat anything too sugary. Choose slow-release energy, like whole-grain carbs.
Go for a walk. The movement might rock your baby to sleep.
Use a birth pool. The water may help both you and your baby get comfortable.

What to Do if You’re Worried About Baby Movements During Labor

The most important thing you can do during labor is to stay calm and relaxed. If you start feeling stressed, your adrenaline and cortisol levels will rise. These are hormones that could slow or stall your labor.

If your baby’s movements are causing you anxiety, ask for continuous monitoring. This is a strap you can wear around your bump that will track your baby’s heartbeat.

It might make it a little trickier to get into some positions or to use a birthing pool, but it could ease your worries.

What to Do if Your Baby Is Not Moving Between Contractions

Around 66 % of babies move during contractions rather than between them. So, as long as you feel your baby move during labor, it doesn’t matter if they take a little rest in the gaps. They need the break just as much as you do.

FAQs

Do Contractions Hurt the Baby?

As far as scientists can tell, contractions shouldn’t hurt your baby. But they may find them uncomfortable.

They’ll feel the sensation of being squeezed. It’s probably quite weird for someone who’s been floating in an amniotic sac for nine months.

Do Babies Move and Kick More During Labor?

Some women report that their babies kicked more during labor. Others felt more movement in the run-up to it. But, in general, healthy babies stick to their regular patterns.

Do Baby Movements Stop Before Labor?

No, your baby’s movements should not slow or stop before or during labor. Seek medical help right away if you’ve noticed fewer kicks.

Can a Fetal Heartbeat Disappear and Reappear?

2022-11-10T00:00:00Z

If you’ve heard the heartbeat once, it can be terrifying to walk away from an appointment where your doctor couldn’t find it. Worse, you’ll probably have to wait at least a week before they try looking for it again. It leaves most moms wondering: can the fetal heartbeat disappear and, more importantly, reappear?

The good news is, yes, it absolutely can, and we’ll explain why. Unfortunately, though, not all cases will have a happy ending, and we’ll explain those too.

What Could Cause a Fetal Heartbeat to Disappear?

While scary, it’s common to come away from a routine checkup without hearing the heartbeat. In most cases, it’s caused by a simple error or an awkward position.

Human Error

Dopplers are a great way to check in on your baby between ultrasounds and usually give you some peace of mind. However, finding your tiny baby early on takes some skill, and your doctor can miss the heartbeat. This happens to women every day, and they’ll typically pick it up at the next appointment.

Your Baby Has Moved

One of the major drawbacks of a doppler is that the user can’t see what’s going on inside your uterus. In the early stages of pregnancy, when your baby has lots of room, they might move into an awkward position and evade the doppler. In some cases, moms could swear their baby would actively squirm away from it!

Your Dates Are Wrong

Pinpointing conception and, therefore, exactly how far along you are can be tricky. But, in the world of fetal heartbeats, a week can make a huge difference. Don’t panic if your sonographer can’t find a heartbeat at your 8-week scan. You might only be 7 weeks, after all.

You Have an Anterior Placenta

Sometimes the placenta can grow at the front of your uterus. This is usually no problem, but it will get in the way of a doppler finding your baby’s heartbeat.

You Have a Tilted Uterus

If you have a tilted uterus, you are not alone. Around 20% of women have a uterus that tips towards their spine. It’s no big deal, but it will make picking up your baby’s heartbeat harder.

You Are Plus-Sized

If you’re plus-sized, there’s more tissue between the ultrasound transducer and your baby. This can make it harder for your sonographer to find the heartbeat. If this is causing problems, ask for a transvaginal ultrasound instead.

Unfortunately, a missing heartbeat can occasionally indicate a serious problem. In these cases, the heartbeat will sadly not reappear:

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities are responsible for between 50 and 60 % of miscarriages. They occur when the sperm or egg cell carries faulty chromosomes. This prevents the baby from developing properly and can result in a miscarriage.

Sometimes the cause is genetic, and you might want to investigate further. But most often, the problem was a random glitch in cell division that’s unlikely to recur.

Problems With Blood Supply

Some blood clotting and autoimmune disorders can cause an issue with blood flow to the placenta. If the supply to the baby falls too low, their heart will stop beating.

Infection

Infections like rubella, cytomegalovirus, bacterial vaginosis, and several STDs can cause a miscarriage.

Issue With the Umbilical Cord

Occasionally, the umbilical cord can become knotted or compressed. This will restrict the baby’s blood supply and will result in the loss of the pregnancy.

Low Progesterone

Progesterone is the hormone required to sustain an early pregnancy. If levels drop too low, a spontaneous miscarriage can occur. Fortunately, it’s possible to supplement progesterone to prevent it from happening again.

Can a Fetal Heartbeat Come Back?

If the heartbeat disappeared due to an error or the awkward position of your baby, placenta, or uterus, it could reappear at a follow-up scan.

If, however, the heartbeat is gone due to an issue with the cord, blood supply, infection, hormones, or chromosomal abnormalities, it won’t return. In these cases, the pregnancy will, sadly, result in a miscarriage or stillbirth.

How Can a Doctor Miss a Fetal Heartbeat?

Most doctors will use one of the following four methods to listen to your baby’s heartbeat. Some are more accurate than others, especially early on.


	How it Works	When It Works	Accuracy
Fetal Doppler	A small ultrasound probe is held against your belly. It detects movement and translates it into sound.	8 weeks +	When used by a professional, a doppler is very accurate. However, it’s possible to miss the heartbeat if: Your baby is in a weird position.You have a tilted uterus.You have an anterior placenta.
Abdominal Ultrasound	A transducer that emits high-frequency sound waves is moved over your bump. The sound waves bounce off your baby, return to the device, and are converted into images.	6 ½- 7 weeks +	Abdominal ultrasounds are accurate, but mistakes can be made in early pregnancy. This is a particular issue if your dates are slightly out. It’s also less accurate if you are plus-sized because it’s harder to get a clear image.
Transvaginal Ultrasound	An ultrasound probe is inserted into your vagina.	5 ½ weeks +	Transvaginal ultrasounds provide clearer images than abdominal ones. This is because the sound waves don’t have as many layers of tissue to travel through. They are the most accurate way to check on your baby.
Stethoscope	When your baby is large enough, a doctor can use a stethoscope to listen to the heartbeat.	18-20 weeks +	When used by a professional, a stethoscope is a great, zero-risk way to listen to the heartbeat after 18 weeks. However, it’s typically less accurate than a doppler.

What to Do if the Fetal Heartbeat Disappears

1. Find Support

It can be scary, heartbreaking, and stressful to hear that your doctor can’t find your baby’s heartbeat. It’s also not usually possible, or helpful, to schedule an immediate follow-up appointment. This is because, if your baby is too small, it makes sense to delay trying to hear the heartbeat again for a week or so.

This will leave you with an agonizing wait. Leaning on a partner, friend, or family member for a listening ear, distraction, or a little extra care can be helpful.

2. Get a Second Opinion

A fetal heartbeat cannot restart. However, many women are given the bad news due to error and later discover the heartbeat was there all along. Schedule an appointment with a different doctor to confirm.

3. Opt for a Transvaginal Ultrasound

Doppler’s can easily miss the heartbeat due to a positioning issue. You can’t be sure the heartbeat is gone without an ultrasound, ideally a vaginal one.

4. Medical Management

If you’ve waited a week or two and a second ultrasound still can’t detect a heartbeat, tragically, it won’t return.

In this case, you can wait to miscarry naturally or undergo a D&C procedure (dilation and curettage). This is the surgical removal of pregnancy tissue from your uterus. If you undergo the procedure, you will receive a final ultrasound to confirm the loss.

26 % of pregnancies end in miscarriage. So if it has happened to you, you’re not alone. You may find it helpful to access online support groups like March of Dimes or The Miscarriage Association.

What Does It Mean When Babies Stand on Their Head?

2022-11-21T00:00:00Z

At around 14 to 16 months old, your baby might start channeling their inner yogi with a forward fold or downward dog. While their flexibility is impressive, it might leave you wondering… What does it mean when babies stand on their heads? Is it safe? And should mom be peeing on a stick?

Why Does Your Baby Stand on Their Head and Look Between Their Legs?

Here are the reasons why your baby keeps folding over to have a peek through their chubby thighs:

They’re Exploring New Perspectives

Your baby’s world looks very different from an upside-down perspective. After discovering it, it’s no wonder they’re taking some time to inspect the new view.

Feeling Dizzy Is Funny

Standing on their head could give your little one a funny, dizzy feeling. Some kids can’t stand it, but others live for it. If your tot likes it when you spin them around, they’ll probably love hanging out upside-down too.

They’re Hitting a New Developmental Milestone

Usually, between 14 and 16 months old, your baby will gain the ability to stand on their head. Like when they hit their other milestones, they’ll love trying out their new skill.

However, just like rolling over or pulling up to stand, they’ll soon replace it with their next new move. So, soak it in and make sure you get a few pictures.

They Love Attention

If your baby’s first time standing on their head earned them a laugh, a photo, or excitement, they’ll want to do it again and again.

They are as impressed by a new reaction from you as you are by one from them. That’s why pulling funny faces or breaking out new dance moves is always good for prompting a baby giggle.

They’re Looking Behind Them

A very simple explanation for why your baby is standing on their head is that they want to look behind them. Of course, there are easier ways to achieve this. But since when do babies choose the easy way?

They’re Working On Their Gross Motor Skills

Bending over to stand on their heads takes a lot of muscle strength and control. Their weird new pose might look funny, but it’s actually a great core workout. And we all look a little strange when working out!

A daily dose of looking under their legs will strengthen the muscles that improve their posture and balance. Not bad, maybe we should join them.

They’re Stimulating Their Vestibular System

The vestibular system is responsible for helping us balance and orient ourselves. By playing with their orientation, your baby is stimulating this system. This supports brain development and helps develop sensory connections.

Studies have even shown that higher rates of vestibular stimulation in early life lead to increased cognitive performance. Of course, walking, balancing, and spinning will all do the same job. So, don’t panic if your tot stops hanging out upside down.

They’re Enjoying the Stretch

There’s nothing like a bit of yoga for a nice stretch. It could be that your baby has just discovered that a nice forward fold or downward dog feels great.

It Chills Them Out

If your baby keeps bending over when they’re tired, anxious, or upset, it could be that the position helps them feel calm. Some babies find being upside down to be a great stress reliever.

The position might not look relaxing to adults, but it wasn’t long ago that your little one was chilling upside-down in the womb. Add in the sensory stimulation, and you’ve got a great toddler stress reliever.

They’re Playing Copycat

Babies are copycats. It’s how they learn new skills and what their little bodies are capable of. If your little one has spotted other kids standing on their heads, they’ll want to join in too.

They’re Looking for a Sibling

There’s an old wives’ tale that says your baby can sense that their mom is pregnant. They’ll show they know by looking between their legs as if they’re looking for a sibling.

It might sound crazy, but thousands of moms today will swear their kid predicted a sibling this way. Plus, babies are great at picking up on their parent’s emotions.

However, there’s another explanation. As we know, tots usually hit this milestone at around 14 to 16 months old. This also happens to be a very popular age for moms to start trying for a second or third baby. So, it could be a coincidence after all.

There’s a Medical Issue

Baby headstands aren’t a red flag for any specific medical condition. If your baby seems happy doing them, there’s almost certainly no problem.

However, always check with a medical professional if your baby seems in pain or distress. They might have an injury or condition that feels better when they bend over.

The pose will also give you an excellent opportunity to check their spine. It should follow a smooth curve as they bend. If you notice any strange bumps or irregularities, you should have them checked out.

Is it Safe For A Baby to Stand On Their Head?

Yes, it’s totally safe for your baby to stand on their head for short periods. Even if they do it frequently throughout the day.

However, it can make them feel dizzy and could affect their balance. So, falls and bumps are possible.

What Should You Do if Your Baby Keeps Standing on Their Head?

Protect your little yogi by:

Moving hard objects away from them.
Surrounding them with pillows or foam mats.
Being ready to catch your dizzy tot.
Stopping them from pulling the pose on raised surfaces, like a couch or bed.

If you think they need a break, distract them or find another way to provide sensory stimulation.

How to Stimulate a Baby’s Vestibular System

Some of the best play activities double as fantastic vestibular stimulation exercises. Try these out if your baby craves rocking, bouncing, spinning, or standing on their head:

Riding a rocking horse
Swinging on a swing
Rocking in a rocking chair
Swaying in a hammock
Jumping on a baby trampoline
Bouncing on a ball
Tumbling on a crash mat with activities like supported forward rolls
Spinning on toys like a sit’n’spin
Swimming
Dancing
Riding on ride-along toys like cars or trikes

So, there you have it. A little tush in the air is nothing to worry about. Your baby Einstein is probably just exploring their place in the world, stimulating their brain, and strengthening their body. Or, they just find it funny! It’s all good.

Newborn Leg Shaking: Should You be Concerned? (it depends)

2022-11-25T00:00:00Z

Jitters, shivers, and shakes in newborns are very common, and they will freak out the majority of parents at some point. They’re usually just a sign of your baby’s nervous system developing and them adapting to life on the outside. Babies can even get the shakes if you drink too much coffee. Provided you’re breastfeeding, of course, they’re not THAT sensitive!

However, tremors can also be a sign of more serious conditions like seizures, deficiencies, and low blood sugar. So, if your newborn has a shaky leg, it’s essential to check some things out.

Is My Baby’s Leg Shaking Serious?

Here’s a quick guide to help you work out whether it’s OK to stop worrying or if you should take your little one for a check-up.

Your Baby’s Trembling Leg Is Probably Not Serious If:

The shaking stops when you gently hold their leg or offer them something to suck.
The episodes always happen during a particular activity, like a diaper change or as they’re falling asleep.
You breastfeed your baby, and you’ve had a few too many coffees.

The Leg Shaking Could Be a Sign of a More Serious Condition If:

Your baby seems unwell.
They haven’t been feeding well.
They are difficult to wake or lethargic.
They were exposed to nicotine, drugs, or alcohol while in the womb.

Leg Shaking Could Indicate a Seizure If:

There’s a noticeable change in your baby’s breathing, heart rate, eye movement, or mouth movement when they shake.
The movement can’t be stopped by gently holding their leg.
The episodes are identical each time.
The movements are symmetrical and rhythmic.
The shaking starts when there’s been no change in the environment or your baby’s posture, and they’re not about to fall asleep.

Is It Normal For A Babies Leg To Shake?

Around two-thirds of newborns will experience some tremors before they’re three days old. So, if your little one shakes sometimes, they’re in the majority.

However, don’t feel embarrassed to bring it up with your baby’s doctor if you’re worried. They’ll be happy to help.

Why Does My Newborn’s Leg Shake?

Your newborn’s twitching leg could be due to any of the following causes. Thankfully, most are completely harmless, and those that aren’t are easy to treat.

Immature Nervous System

The most common cause of twitching and jerking movements in your newborn’s legs is their immature nervous system. This means that the pathways that carry the signals from their brain to their muscles aren’t fully developed. So, when your little one tries to move their leg, the result is twitchy or shaky. This is perfectly normal and will stop on its own in a few weeks.

Benign Neonatal Sleep Myoclonus

If your baby’s leg shakes while they sleep, this is probably down to a sleep disorder known as Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus. It’s similar to a hypnic jerk, the sudden muscle contraction you might’ve experienced while falling asleep.

They can last from a few seconds to 20 minutes and don’t cause any harm. Your baby will grow out of them between 2 and 10 months old.

Dislike of Diaper Changes

If you notice your baby only gets twitchy legs when you change their diaper, it’s probably just their way of saying they don’t like it. On the other hand, the shaking could mean they’re excited. They like to keep us guessing.

Caffeine in Breast Milk

Newborns metabolize caffeine much more slowly than adults. So, while your latte might be doing just enough to keep your eyelids open, your newborn might get the full-on coffee jitters.

Most professionals recommend between 200 and 300 mg, or 2 and 3 cups of coffee per day. But don’t forget, chocolate contains caffeine too!

Low Blood Sugar

Tremors are the most common symptom of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in babies. This cause is most likely if your little one has difficulty feeding, was born prematurely, or you had gestational diabetes. A doctor can confirm this with a blood sugar test, and you can usually treat your baby with careful feeding.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Jitteriness and tremors can be a sign of vitamin D deficiency. Your baby is more at risk if they are breastfed without vitamin D supplements or were born prematurely.

If you suspect this may be the cause of your little one’s jitters, speak to your doctor. It can be diagnosed with a quick blood test and easily treated with supplements.

Substance Withdrawal

Exposure to substances like nicotine, alcohol, opioids, marijuana, or cocaine during pregnancy can all result in newborn jitters and tremors. This can be a serious condition and usually requires support from a medical professional.

Seizures

If your baby shows any of the signs of seizures listed above, you should seek a doctor’s opinion straight away. They may want to run an electroencephalogram (EEG) test or an MRI. Once they establish the cause of the seizures, many treatment options are available.

When Should You See a Doctor

You should take your little one to a doctor urgently if you think seizures, low blood sugar, vitamin D deficiency, or substance withdrawal are causing their tremors. These conditions require treatment, which you’ll want to get started on sooner rather than later.

If you don’t suspect any of these to be the problem, and your baby stops twitching when you gently hold their leg, you don’t need to do anything. However, mentioning anything like this at your baby’s next check-up is always a good idea.

Ensure you provide your baby’s doctor with a complete family history, as some conditions are genetic.

FAQs

How Do I Stop My Baby’s Leg Shaking?

In most cases, gently gripping your baby’s leg, flexing their knee, or giving them something to suck will stop their leg from shivering. If this doesn’t work, you should take your little one to a doctor as there might be a more serious problem.

When Will My Baby’s Leg Stop Shaking?

Most babies outgrow their twitchiness by six months, depending on the cause. However, if their shaky leg is due to caffeine in breast milk, a deficiency, low blood sugar, or seizures, the shaking won’t stop until the underlying cause is treated.

My Baby’s Leg Is Shaking; Are They Cold?

If your baby is chilly, their neck will feel cool, they may become still or lethargic, and their hands and feet might appear slightly blue. Warm them up gently with a cuddle or extra layer, and the shivering will stop on its own.

If their neck and hands are fine and the room is between 68° and 72°F (20 to 22.2°C), the shaking is probably due to something else.

Why Do My Baby’s Legs Shake When They Stretch?

Brand-new babies don’t arrive with a fully developed nervous system. So as they stretch, the signals from their brain to their muscles don’t always arrive smoothly. This causes their movements to be jerky.