Traveling can be a great idea and a first step towards introducing your children to the world outside. It can also be the beginning for your toddlers' formative memories.
Compared to adults and teens, infants and young toddlers are the easiest to travel with, given any mode of transportation-be it on the road or by plane. Babies at this age are perfectly happy provided they are given their 'basic' comforts-healthy food, clean diapers, and pacifiers or their favorite cuddle toy (Bring on Barney!). The younger they are, the more they will sleep.
However, parents also need to be prepared for the fusses and the emergencies. Here's how you can make your journey a fun family adventure:
Flying High
It is essential that parents be properly prepared and have the right information if they are traveling with their toddlers by plane:
• Bring your children's car seat: It will keep them safe from air turbulence.
• Pre book tickets: It will favor your odds of getting the right (preferred) seats.
• Keep drinks close at hand: Flying is known to be dehydrating for children. Make sure to remember the sippee cup. Not only does it help avoid spills, but also helps with ear pressure if your child is no longer using a pacifier.
• Anticipate ear pain: Change in air pressure can cause ear pain. Sipping on a drink usually takes care of this problem.
• Change diapers in the rear: If there are no changing tables, use the empty back seats.
• Dress your children in easily removable layers: Fluctuations in temperature are to be anticipated at airports as well as inside the plane.
On the Road
At the outset, car travel with toddlers is easier than flying. However, that doesn't mean your children won't get cranky, overtired, or carsick. Follow these tips to make your road trip go as smoothly as possible:
• Time it right: It is advisable to start out close to your children's regular naptime so they'll sleep for the better half of the journey.
• Bring the entertainment: Get along their books and toys to keep them busy during the ride.
• Shield them: Apply a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, and keep the windows shaded.
• Don't forget the food: Bring their favorite snacks to help relieve their boredom or anxiety.
• Get the Kit: Pack a small first aid kit along, including pain reliever/fever reducer, allergy medication (if necessary), band-aids and any other medications your children might need.
• Diapers and wipes: If your children haven't been potty trained, bring along plenty of diapers; don't forget the wipes.
One of the major concerns a Dad has when traveling during Christmas is the luggage, of which Christmas gifts and presents make up a major portion. Here are a few simple tips to beat Christmas stress.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Guarding your Baby Against Accidents
In the first year of life, your child will show some astonishing development as he/she transforms from a helpless, totally dependent baby into a curious and animated bundle of energy. As your infant grows, you as the parent will have your hands full ensuring that he/she stays out of harm's way. Left unattended, it is easy for an infant to hurt himself/herself, even within the safe confines of your house.
A little common sense, combined with watchfulness, can go a long way in protecting your child against such accidents. See the chart below on how you can guard your baby against the common accidents children are prone to when they are younger than a year old.
• Choking:
Any item small enough for babies to hold in their palms may end up choking them and should be kept out of their reach.
Avoid giving your baby toys with parts that can be pried loose or torn and bitten off.
Ensure that your infant's food is cut into pieces small enough for him/her to handle.
Be extra cautious with round and hard food items such as candy or cookies. Popcorn, grapes, peanut butter, hotdogs are all harmful for young children and should not be given to them.
Avoid wearing jewelry that could be swallowed by your baby.
• Suffocation:
Don't let your baby sleep in soft, lumpy pillows or comforters. Instead use a firm mattress that fits securely into the crib.
If you smoke, avoid doing so in your house or around your baby.
• Drowning:
Never leave your baby alone in a bathtub; just a few inches of water is enough to drown an infant.
Never leave your baby unattended around water sources such as toilets, pools, swimming pool, spas and Jacuzzis.
Always keep bathtubs, buckets and other containers empty.
• Burns:
Have comfortable and flame retarding sleepwear for children.
Never juggle hot water, beverages or food while carrying your child.
Keep water heaters down to 120 F.
Install smoke detectors in your home and check the batteries regularly.
Keep children away from stoves at all times; as a precaution ensure that pot handles are turned away from the edge of the stove.
• Falls:
Never leave your baby unattended on tables, chairs, sofas or beds.
Ensure guards on all windows.
Install gates on stairways.
Ensure that the baby crib has high side rails.
• Road accidents:
Always use a car seat while driving with your baby, even while driving him/her from the hospital.
Never let the baby sit in the front seat having an air bag.
Go in for safe car seats that are approved by the government and buy new to avoid getting a defective piece.
A little common sense, combined with watchfulness, can go a long way in protecting your child against such accidents. See the chart below on how you can guard your baby against the common accidents children are prone to when they are younger than a year old.
• Choking:
Any item small enough for babies to hold in their palms may end up choking them and should be kept out of their reach.
Avoid giving your baby toys with parts that can be pried loose or torn and bitten off.
Ensure that your infant's food is cut into pieces small enough for him/her to handle.
Be extra cautious with round and hard food items such as candy or cookies. Popcorn, grapes, peanut butter, hotdogs are all harmful for young children and should not be given to them.
Avoid wearing jewelry that could be swallowed by your baby.
• Suffocation:
Don't let your baby sleep in soft, lumpy pillows or comforters. Instead use a firm mattress that fits securely into the crib.
If you smoke, avoid doing so in your house or around your baby.
• Drowning:
Never leave your baby alone in a bathtub; just a few inches of water is enough to drown an infant.
Never leave your baby unattended around water sources such as toilets, pools, swimming pool, spas and Jacuzzis.
Always keep bathtubs, buckets and other containers empty.
• Burns:
Have comfortable and flame retarding sleepwear for children.
Never juggle hot water, beverages or food while carrying your child.
Keep water heaters down to 120 F.
Install smoke detectors in your home and check the batteries regularly.
Keep children away from stoves at all times; as a precaution ensure that pot handles are turned away from the edge of the stove.
• Falls:
Never leave your baby unattended on tables, chairs, sofas or beds.
Ensure guards on all windows.
Install gates on stairways.
Ensure that the baby crib has high side rails.
• Road accidents:
Always use a car seat while driving with your baby, even while driving him/her from the hospital.
Never let the baby sit in the front seat having an air bag.
Go in for safe car seats that are approved by the government and buy new to avoid getting a defective piece.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Top Three Advantages of Working from Home
There are several advantages to working from home or telecommuting. Here is a list of the top three advantages:
1. Freedom from Workplace Stress
When a group works in the same physical space, the organization needs rules to ensure a smooth work flow. Consequently, some individuals may have to strain themselves to fit in. Companies cannot accommodate individual differences in work styles. When individuals cannot fit in, it leads to workplace related stress. Workplace stress is also related to relationship problems with coworkers or with the boss. It can be stressful to have your boss constantly peering over your shoulders. While working from home may not free a person from the stress of deadlines, it at least frees him from the prying eyes of his boss.
2. Flexibility
Working from home gives you the increased flexibility to balance work schedules with family priorities. It is not just about having to care for the kids-it's about spending quality time with ones family.
People have their peak hours when they can work most efficiently. Working flexible hours from home allows individuals to work only at their peak hours, thus producing quality output in the least time.
Thirdly, a flexible work schedule allows people to work at different time zones and to take on a greater variety of international work. For example, living in the US, you could work late at night as an online English tutor for a person living in the East.
3. Economics
Working from home can save costs on transportation, parking, food, clothing, and childcare.
1. Freedom from Workplace Stress
When a group works in the same physical space, the organization needs rules to ensure a smooth work flow. Consequently, some individuals may have to strain themselves to fit in. Companies cannot accommodate individual differences in work styles. When individuals cannot fit in, it leads to workplace related stress. Workplace stress is also related to relationship problems with coworkers or with the boss. It can be stressful to have your boss constantly peering over your shoulders. While working from home may not free a person from the stress of deadlines, it at least frees him from the prying eyes of his boss.
2. Flexibility
Working from home gives you the increased flexibility to balance work schedules with family priorities. It is not just about having to care for the kids-it's about spending quality time with ones family.
People have their peak hours when they can work most efficiently. Working flexible hours from home allows individuals to work only at their peak hours, thus producing quality output in the least time.
Thirdly, a flexible work schedule allows people to work at different time zones and to take on a greater variety of international work. For example, living in the US, you could work late at night as an online English tutor for a person living in the East.
3. Economics
Working from home can save costs on transportation, parking, food, clothing, and childcare.
Monday, November 24, 2008
How to Choose your Work-from-Home Job
Most people wishing to work-from-home or telecommute start with a state of confusion. There are so many work-from-home scams that most newbies end up burning their fingers at their initial attempt to set up home businesses.
If you wish to stay away from the scams, the first rule is to avoid the get-rich-quick schemes. Focusing on job satisfaction instead of big money will steer you past many of the scams strewn across the marketplace.
When looking for a work-from-home opportunity, here are a few questions you need to ask yourself:
1. What do I enjoy doing?
There may be several things you enjoy doing; list them all. Don't leave out anything. List also those activities that you suspect might not earn you money, for example, watching TV. You may be surprised; there are work-from-home opportunities also for people who would like to watch TV for a living. The only criterion in this list is that it should be an activity you enjoy doing.
2. What are the activities I would rather not do professionally?
Doing something professionally means doing similar tasks everyday, even repetitively. There may be activities you enjoy doing, but rather not do professionally. Many people stop enjoying certain activities if they have to do them for a living. For example, you may enjoy watching a certain TV program. However, would you enjoy watching the same scene repeatedly about 20-30 times? This is what you might need to do if you became a video or movie editor.
3. What are the activities I have the skills for?
Make a list of all the skills you have used in the past. Don't limit yourself to workplace skills. Include work that you may have done for your family, friends, or charitable organizations.
4. What are the skills I would enjoy learning?
Make a list of all the skills that you would enjoy learning. For example, you might enjoy learning how to play a musical instrument or story writing.
5. What are the required skills I can learn in the shortest time?
Based on your interests, make a list of the skills it would take you the least time to learn.
6. What are the tasks I hate doing or what working styles do I hate the most?
List tasks related to the workplace as well as tasks in other informal settings. For example, you may hate creating detailed reports or working under a boss.
Now identify an activity with the most occurrences across all the "like" categories and absent in the "hate" category. For example, your most frequent "like" activity may be watching TV. Then search for work-from-home opportunities that involve activities like editing or categorizing videos.
This exercise will help you narrow down your search and possibly land you a job that will bring you job satisfaction. In most cases, when people enjoy their job, they produce quality output and consequently are more successful. Remember also, that success and money don't always go hand. While ideally, a job you love will mean money and happiness, you may have to sacrifice some (or a lot) of the former to achieve the latter.
If you wish to stay away from the scams, the first rule is to avoid the get-rich-quick schemes. Focusing on job satisfaction instead of big money will steer you past many of the scams strewn across the marketplace.
When looking for a work-from-home opportunity, here are a few questions you need to ask yourself:
1. What do I enjoy doing?
There may be several things you enjoy doing; list them all. Don't leave out anything. List also those activities that you suspect might not earn you money, for example, watching TV. You may be surprised; there are work-from-home opportunities also for people who would like to watch TV for a living. The only criterion in this list is that it should be an activity you enjoy doing.
2. What are the activities I would rather not do professionally?
Doing something professionally means doing similar tasks everyday, even repetitively. There may be activities you enjoy doing, but rather not do professionally. Many people stop enjoying certain activities if they have to do them for a living. For example, you may enjoy watching a certain TV program. However, would you enjoy watching the same scene repeatedly about 20-30 times? This is what you might need to do if you became a video or movie editor.
3. What are the activities I have the skills for?
Make a list of all the skills you have used in the past. Don't limit yourself to workplace skills. Include work that you may have done for your family, friends, or charitable organizations.
4. What are the skills I would enjoy learning?
Make a list of all the skills that you would enjoy learning. For example, you might enjoy learning how to play a musical instrument or story writing.
5. What are the required skills I can learn in the shortest time?
Based on your interests, make a list of the skills it would take you the least time to learn.
6. What are the tasks I hate doing or what working styles do I hate the most?
List tasks related to the workplace as well as tasks in other informal settings. For example, you may hate creating detailed reports or working under a boss.
Now identify an activity with the most occurrences across all the "like" categories and absent in the "hate" category. For example, your most frequent "like" activity may be watching TV. Then search for work-from-home opportunities that involve activities like editing or categorizing videos.
This exercise will help you narrow down your search and possibly land you a job that will bring you job satisfaction. In most cases, when people enjoy their job, they produce quality output and consequently are more successful. Remember also, that success and money don't always go hand. While ideally, a job you love will mean money and happiness, you may have to sacrifice some (or a lot) of the former to achieve the latter.
Kids, Credit and Credit Ratings
You probably have never given much thought to your young child's credit history and rating. However, the increase in identity theft means dads have to be more vigilant about protecting their kids from thieves who will take their financial identity, often not to be discovered for many years. As crises go, this one isn't earth shattering, but the Federal Trade Commission, the federal agency that tracks identity complaints, says that 11,600 complaints for victims under 18 were filed in 2005. This is roughly double the number filed in 2003. Many of these are fraud cases involving relatives, but some involve real theft too.
What can dads do to protect their kids?
1. Guard their social security number. Social security numbers should only be given out for financial and tax purposes, and medical reasons; so ask yourself whenever anyone (school, community groups) demands your child's social security number. That goes for parents as well. At some point, the social security number could become a national ID number, but this has not yet occurred.
2. Understand how someone could use his or her number, so you understand why a child with no credit could be a target. Anyone working needs a social security number.
3. Watch the mail. Is your son or daughter suddenly getting mail solicitations for credit cards and loan products? This may be a warning sign that someone has used his or her number and your child has been identified as financially mature.
4. It's not a bad idea to consider checking your child's credit report, which you can do for free each year. You can also place a fraud alert on their records, but that has to be renewed every 90 days. Companies exist, like LifeLock (www.lifelock.com) that will track your credit and can add your children to their alerts. These are checks you can do for free by asking for a credit report, but may be worth the fees ($10 per month plus add-on of $25/year per child) if you are concerned.
What can dads do to protect their kids?
1. Guard their social security number. Social security numbers should only be given out for financial and tax purposes, and medical reasons; so ask yourself whenever anyone (school, community groups) demands your child's social security number. That goes for parents as well. At some point, the social security number could become a national ID number, but this has not yet occurred.
2. Understand how someone could use his or her number, so you understand why a child with no credit could be a target. Anyone working needs a social security number.
3. Watch the mail. Is your son or daughter suddenly getting mail solicitations for credit cards and loan products? This may be a warning sign that someone has used his or her number and your child has been identified as financially mature.
4. It's not a bad idea to consider checking your child's credit report, which you can do for free each year. You can also place a fraud alert on their records, but that has to be renewed every 90 days. Companies exist, like LifeLock (www.lifelock.com) that will track your credit and can add your children to their alerts. These are checks you can do for free by asking for a credit report, but may be worth the fees ($10 per month plus add-on of $25/year per child) if you are concerned.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Games for Skill Building at Ten Months
Your baby is mobile. She is aware of her surroundings. She has learned what is familiar-her family, her home and her toys. She also knows what is unfamiliar-a stranger, a sudden siren or a loud bark.
Your baby may be afraid of strangers. This is normal. It is called "stranger anxiety." This fear begins when your baby notices the differences among people. This is a big step in development. It means your baby is learning about her world and the people in it.
Children learn skills as they grow. These skills happen by certain ages. A child learns skills at her own pace. You can see how your baby is doing. Watch when she starts to crawl, walk, talk and feed herself.
Have fun helping your baby develop these skills.
Physical skills: Your baby loves to imitate you. Get on the floor and crawl with your baby. Play "Follow the Leader." Sit on the floor with her and let her copy your emotions. For example, bang on an empty box with a wooden spoon. Give the spoon to your baby and help her to bang too.
Emotional skills: Help your baby feel pride in what she does. Talk to her all through the day. Tell her she is growing strong. Tell her she is smart or kind. For example, Alma crawls toward the telephone when she hears it ring. Say, "Wow, you know that the phone is ringing. You go right to it."
Intellectual skills: Help your baby learn about sizes. Give her two or three empty boxes. Talk about the biggest, smallest, tallest, widest, longest and shortest box.
Social skills: Show your baby how to touch gently. When she grabs your hair, for example, say in a calm voice, "That hurts me. Hold your hand like this and pat Mommy's hair gently." While you say the words, hold your baby's hand open. Hold it while you slowly pat and smooth your head.
Language skills: Play lots of echo games. Call out sounds like la, la, la or ba, ba, ba. Encourage your baby to repeat the sounds. If she makes sounds, echo her. This will get her ready for saying real words.
Your baby may be afraid of strangers. This is normal. It is called "stranger anxiety." This fear begins when your baby notices the differences among people. This is a big step in development. It means your baby is learning about her world and the people in it.
Children learn skills as they grow. These skills happen by certain ages. A child learns skills at her own pace. You can see how your baby is doing. Watch when she starts to crawl, walk, talk and feed herself.
Have fun helping your baby develop these skills.
Physical skills: Your baby loves to imitate you. Get on the floor and crawl with your baby. Play "Follow the Leader." Sit on the floor with her and let her copy your emotions. For example, bang on an empty box with a wooden spoon. Give the spoon to your baby and help her to bang too.
Emotional skills: Help your baby feel pride in what she does. Talk to her all through the day. Tell her she is growing strong. Tell her she is smart or kind. For example, Alma crawls toward the telephone when she hears it ring. Say, "Wow, you know that the phone is ringing. You go right to it."
Intellectual skills: Help your baby learn about sizes. Give her two or three empty boxes. Talk about the biggest, smallest, tallest, widest, longest and shortest box.
Social skills: Show your baby how to touch gently. When she grabs your hair, for example, say in a calm voice, "That hurts me. Hold your hand like this and pat Mommy's hair gently." While you say the words, hold your baby's hand open. Hold it while you slowly pat and smooth your head.
Language skills: Play lots of echo games. Call out sounds like la, la, la or ba, ba, ba. Encourage your baby to repeat the sounds. If she makes sounds, echo her. This will get her ready for saying real words.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Ideas To Deal With Christmas Stress
It's that time of the year again. Come Yule, and you'll be in a tizzy, harried already with requests that are more like orders from Sergeant I-Want-it-All, like, "Dad, I want my favorite… all my friends have it!" Chances are, the much-feared Christmas stress has already taken root, and is feeding upon your vulnerability. No matter how much you love Christmas, stress and anxiety are the other side of this season of cheer.
Is there a way out?
Yes there is. Dads can beat Christmas stress. All it takes is a little planning, and being proactive. Here are a few simple tips to help you keep unwanted anxiety at bay during Christmas:
Lists: A good old Christmas shopping list is a surefire way to keep a tab on what is necessary and what is unwanted expense.
1. One-stop-shopping: Try to buy all Christmas gifts and presents on a single day, or group your shopping needs according to categories (for example, Toys for Kids, Gifts for Grandparents, Gift for Wifey Dear, Gifts for Near and Dear Ones, Gifts for Not-so-near-and-not-so-Dear Ones, etc.). This way you will cover most items without having to hop from store to store.
2. Time yourself: Allot the time you are likely to spend at a store. This will help you organize your shopping itinerary.
3. No Coffee Please: Avoid caffeine while shopping. It is a little hard to imagine, but do try this one. Caffeine levels add to stress inducing substances within your body, which could only worsen your anxiety levels.
4. Relax: Try simple breathing exercises when waiting-in a line or at a restaurant. Deep breathing helps lower stress related hormones and lets you ease tension.
These are simple things that one often ignores in a hurry. So, go out there, have all the fun this Christmas holiday celebration, and banish stress as just a memory.
Is there a way out?
Yes there is. Dads can beat Christmas stress. All it takes is a little planning, and being proactive. Here are a few simple tips to help you keep unwanted anxiety at bay during Christmas:
Lists: A good old Christmas shopping list is a surefire way to keep a tab on what is necessary and what is unwanted expense.
1. One-stop-shopping: Try to buy all Christmas gifts and presents on a single day, or group your shopping needs according to categories (for example, Toys for Kids, Gifts for Grandparents, Gift for Wifey Dear, Gifts for Near and Dear Ones, Gifts for Not-so-near-and-not-so-Dear Ones, etc.). This way you will cover most items without having to hop from store to store.
2. Time yourself: Allot the time you are likely to spend at a store. This will help you organize your shopping itinerary.
3. No Coffee Please: Avoid caffeine while shopping. It is a little hard to imagine, but do try this one. Caffeine levels add to stress inducing substances within your body, which could only worsen your anxiety levels.
4. Relax: Try simple breathing exercises when waiting-in a line or at a restaurant. Deep breathing helps lower stress related hormones and lets you ease tension.
These are simple things that one often ignores in a hurry. So, go out there, have all the fun this Christmas holiday celebration, and banish stress as just a memory.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Safety Corner for Five Month Olds
As your baby grows older, he will become more active. He will move around more and explore his world. Keep him safe as he grows and learns. Here are some dangers to watch out for:
• Never leave your baby alone in a bath for even a few seconds. Never leave your baby alone near any pool of water or even a bucket of water, no matter how shallow it is.
• Never leave your baby alone on a high place, like a tabletop.
• Never leave your baby alone in a crib with the sides down. If he does ever fall and begins to act strangely in any way, call the doctor right away.
• Never smoke around your baby. Be careful when you eat or drink hot fluids while holding your baby.
• Never give food to your baby that can make him choke. Foods should be soft and runny. They should be ground up or soft, so that your baby can swallow them without chewing. Some babies become constipated when they start to eat different foods at this age. If this happens to your baby, call your doctor.
• Older brothers and sisters may be jealous of the baby. They may try to hit, poke or squeeze him. They may not like it that you spend a lot of time with your baby. Talk to them about it. Let them know that you love them, too.
• Watch your baby when he plays with older children. By mistake, they may give your baby something harmful to play with, or they may be too rough with your baby.
• Make sure that your baby doesn't grab objects that could hurt him.
• Put plugs in all open electrical outlets.
• Never leave your baby alone with a pet, even if the pet appears to be child-friendly.
• Never leave your baby alone in a bath for even a few seconds. Never leave your baby alone near any pool of water or even a bucket of water, no matter how shallow it is.
• Never leave your baby alone on a high place, like a tabletop.
• Never leave your baby alone in a crib with the sides down. If he does ever fall and begins to act strangely in any way, call the doctor right away.
• Never smoke around your baby. Be careful when you eat or drink hot fluids while holding your baby.
• Never give food to your baby that can make him choke. Foods should be soft and runny. They should be ground up or soft, so that your baby can swallow them without chewing. Some babies become constipated when they start to eat different foods at this age. If this happens to your baby, call your doctor.
• Older brothers and sisters may be jealous of the baby. They may try to hit, poke or squeeze him. They may not like it that you spend a lot of time with your baby. Talk to them about it. Let them know that you love them, too.
• Watch your baby when he plays with older children. By mistake, they may give your baby something harmful to play with, or they may be too rough with your baby.
• Make sure that your baby doesn't grab objects that could hurt him.
• Put plugs in all open electrical outlets.
• Never leave your baby alone with a pet, even if the pet appears to be child-friendly.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Buy a Safe Playpen for Your Baby
A playpen can be a big help. You can have your baby in the same room where you are working so that he will not be alone while you do what you need to do.
You can also take the playpen outdoors with you. Make sure it is in a shady and safe spot. Stay with your baby. Outside he can watch all kinds of things that are going on, safely. You can talk to him about what he is seeing.
Babies should only be in playpens for very short periods of time. They need to spend time on the floor. They need time to explore while a parent watches.
If you leave your baby in the playpen too long, he will let you know. When he first gets tired of it, you can give him something new to play with. He may be content to remain there for a while longer.
Here are some playpen safety tips:
• Make sure the mesh on the sides of the playpen has openings that are smaller than 1/4 inch.
• Make sure there are no tears, holes or loose threads in the mesh.
• Make sure the top rail cover has no tears or holes.
• Playpens made of wood should have slats that are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, or even closer.
• Make sure screws and staples are firmly installed and that none are missing or loose.
• When you set up your baby's playpen, make sure the sides of the playpen are locked in place. A partially set-up playpen can collapse on and harm your baby.
You can also take the playpen outdoors with you. Make sure it is in a shady and safe spot. Stay with your baby. Outside he can watch all kinds of things that are going on, safely. You can talk to him about what he is seeing.
Babies should only be in playpens for very short periods of time. They need to spend time on the floor. They need time to explore while a parent watches.
If you leave your baby in the playpen too long, he will let you know. When he first gets tired of it, you can give him something new to play with. He may be content to remain there for a while longer.
Here are some playpen safety tips:
• Make sure the mesh on the sides of the playpen has openings that are smaller than 1/4 inch.
• Make sure there are no tears, holes or loose threads in the mesh.
• Make sure the top rail cover has no tears or holes.
• Playpens made of wood should have slats that are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, or even closer.
• Make sure screws and staples are firmly installed and that none are missing or loose.
• When you set up your baby's playpen, make sure the sides of the playpen are locked in place. A partially set-up playpen can collapse on and harm your baby.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Ideal Safe Toys for your Baby
Even at a young age, playing fosters your child's physical and mental development. It is essential however that you provide babies with toys meant for their specific age group. Also, always remember to check that they meet the required safety standards.
These are some ideal toys for your three to six month old child:
• Soft Cuddly Toys: Soft toys such as dolls and teddies are good for babies at this age. It is important that it does not have parts such as sharp wires that can cut through and hurt your child. Similarly, avoid toys with buttons, eyes, or ribbons that can be torn off and swallowed.
• Squeaky Toys: At this age, a baby learns to grasp and feel things. Toys that squeak will encourage your child to squeeze and explore objects in different ways.
• Rattles: At this age, children learn to associate cause and effect of events. Rattles and other toys that they can shake or manipulate to produce different sounds will help them to understand this better.
• Board Books: Reading to a child helps develop your baby's language skills. Children also love to be shown pictures which they associate with the stories. Besides, board books are made to withstand the attentions of younger children.
• Toy Bars: These are bars with different plastic toys that can attach to your baby's stroller or car seat. These can provide endless enjoyment during a stroll or drive.
These are some ideal toys for your three to six month old child:
• Soft Cuddly Toys: Soft toys such as dolls and teddies are good for babies at this age. It is important that it does not have parts such as sharp wires that can cut through and hurt your child. Similarly, avoid toys with buttons, eyes, or ribbons that can be torn off and swallowed.
• Squeaky Toys: At this age, a baby learns to grasp and feel things. Toys that squeak will encourage your child to squeeze and explore objects in different ways.
• Rattles: At this age, children learn to associate cause and effect of events. Rattles and other toys that they can shake or manipulate to produce different sounds will help them to understand this better.
• Board Books: Reading to a child helps develop your baby's language skills. Children also love to be shown pictures which they associate with the stories. Besides, board books are made to withstand the attentions of younger children.
• Toy Bars: These are bars with different plastic toys that can attach to your baby's stroller or car seat. These can provide endless enjoyment during a stroll or drive.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Coping with Thanksgiving Travel Stress
Thanksgiving - a time for tributes, turkey, and, well… travel. Thanksgiving is America's busiest weekend for travel. It is, after all, a time of happy family reunions when people journey distances-long and short-to be with family and friends. But for parents traveling with young kids, the holiday spirit could be tinged with anxiety. Here are some tips to help you make your travel experience less stressful:
• Plan ahead: Travel plans can always go awry. And when you are traveling with a bunch of kids in tow, they most certainly will. You can avoid a lot of travel stress by planning each step of the journey in detail, beforehand.
• Beat the rush: Jammed highways, with traffic moving at snail's pace is often an unfortunate reality during the Thanksgiving weekend. However, since the rush starts only by Wednesday, you can beat it by starting out a day earlier, on Tuesday. Another alternative would be to take a train or plane to your destination, instead of driving.
• Take frequent breaks: If you expect your kids to sit straight through the ten-hour drive to grandma's without complaining, you are asking for trouble. Ensure that you plan sufficient stops on the way, for snacks and to let the kids use the bathroom, for instance.
• Keep them occupied: Kids will be kids. They are bound to get bored and weary. And they will react by throwing tantrums and being difficult. Your best bet is to keep them happy. Pack in a couple of toys, favorite books, and puzzles to help pass the time. Another way to keep them entertained is to engage in simple fun activities, like singing, reciting poems, or reading out the billboards on the way.
So much for history. What the day has come to mean for most of us is family gathering together over the traditional Thanksgiving dinner – turkey and all the trimmings. And that's the spirit you want to capture in your Thanksgiving photographs – the spirit of family and togetherness.
• Plan ahead: Travel plans can always go awry. And when you are traveling with a bunch of kids in tow, they most certainly will. You can avoid a lot of travel stress by planning each step of the journey in detail, beforehand.
• Beat the rush: Jammed highways, with traffic moving at snail's pace is often an unfortunate reality during the Thanksgiving weekend. However, since the rush starts only by Wednesday, you can beat it by starting out a day earlier, on Tuesday. Another alternative would be to take a train or plane to your destination, instead of driving.
• Take frequent breaks: If you expect your kids to sit straight through the ten-hour drive to grandma's without complaining, you are asking for trouble. Ensure that you plan sufficient stops on the way, for snacks and to let the kids use the bathroom, for instance.
• Keep them occupied: Kids will be kids. They are bound to get bored and weary. And they will react by throwing tantrums and being difficult. Your best bet is to keep them happy. Pack in a couple of toys, favorite books, and puzzles to help pass the time. Another way to keep them entertained is to engage in simple fun activities, like singing, reciting poems, or reading out the billboards on the way.
So much for history. What the day has come to mean for most of us is family gathering together over the traditional Thanksgiving dinner – turkey and all the trimmings. And that's the spirit you want to capture in your Thanksgiving photographs – the spirit of family and togetherness.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Making Baby's First Christmas Special
Even more than your wedding day, having a baby feels like the creation of your own family. And families can create strong bonds through traditions that build meaning over time.
Some of us even get teary-eyed remembering mom's Christmas stuffing when far away for the holidays or remember fondly playing family touch football before Thanksgiving turkey.
As a new family, you can create your own traditions, reaffirming the ones from your past and replacing the ones you didn’t enjoy.
Here are a few traditions you might consider:
Some of us even get teary-eyed remembering mom's Christmas stuffing when far away for the holidays or remember fondly playing family touch football before Thanksgiving turkey.
As a new family, you can create your own traditions, reaffirming the ones from your past and replacing the ones you didn’t enjoy.
Here are a few traditions you might consider:
- Christmas eve church service
- Annual engraved silver ornaments for the tree
- Tradition around the trimming of the tree (perhaps a hired pianist)
- A special holiday cocktail that always kicks off the cookie-baking or the Christmas eve dinner
- Volunteering at a food bank or a soup kitchen as a family
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Must Have Gadgets for Dads
Bluetake i-PHONO mini + transmitter
Bluetake i-PHONO mini Bluetooth Stereo Transmitter BT450TX enables your iPod MP3 player to transmit wirelessly the quality stereo music to the compatible Bluetooth A2DP-Sink device such as the i-PHONO mini Bluetooth Stereo Headphone BT450RX via the Bluetooth A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile); meanwhile, you can use the connected i-PHONO mini headphone to remote control the iPod music playing via the Bluetooth AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile)
Canon PowerShot G7
The PowerShot G7 features an incredible 10-megapixel CCD. It produces excellent image details even when printed large and also enables several new benefits such as Digital Teleconverter and Safety Zoom.
Coleco Sonic Handheld
Even if all these "next-gen" consoles are too confusing for dear old dad, surely he can get down with a single D-pad and two measly buttons. The Coleco Sonic Handheld offers up 20 old-school Sega games that anyone can master, and at only $50, it's a cheap way to distract him from telling his boring stories at yet another family event.
Garmin nuvi 660
With a gorgeous widescreen display, the Garmin nüvi 660 GPS Personal Travel Assistant is your answer to the call of adventure. A sleek navigator and a keen travel assistant, the nüvi 660 is preloaded with highly detailed City Navigator NT road maps for the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This map database features nearly six million points of interest (POIs), including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions, and the data is provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping.
A Living Picture Momento 100
Share the moment with the Momento 100 wireless digital picture frame. Easy to set up and use, Momento allows you to display your pictures from your computer running Windows Vista, Windows XP with WMP 11, memory cards, USB drives, on device storage and through Momento Live service. With Momento live, friends and family can send pictures direct to your Momento from anywhere in the world -- share the moment as it happens. A Momento Live service trial subscription is included with the purchase of a Momento wireless digital picture frame.
Sirius Stiletto
Ultra-portable, the Sirius Stiletto SL100 satellite radio receiver features a built-in antenna that allows reception of the Sirius signal without the need for an external car or home docking station. Best of all, this receiver offers up to 100 hours of storage capacity and can handle MP3 and WMA files, enabling you to mix Sirius content with your own personal music collection. It provides up to 800 MB of storage for personal digital audio files, and it provides compatibility for most internet music subscription services and music stores
Sony Ericsson MBW-100
Every guy secretly wants to lead the James Bond lifestyle, and while it's probably not a good idea to retrofit his BMW with surface-to-air missles, you can still hook him up with a high-tech watch. Sony Ericsson's MBW-100 Bluetooth model should fit the bill: it'll help him impress his buddies every time a call comes in, and it looks way snazzier than past attempts at merging wrist with CallerID.
Bluetake i-PHONO mini Bluetooth Stereo Transmitter BT450TX enables your iPod MP3 player to transmit wirelessly the quality stereo music to the compatible Bluetooth A2DP-Sink device such as the i-PHONO mini Bluetooth Stereo Headphone BT450RX via the Bluetooth A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile); meanwhile, you can use the connected i-PHONO mini headphone to remote control the iPod music playing via the Bluetooth AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile)
Canon PowerShot G7
The PowerShot G7 features an incredible 10-megapixel CCD. It produces excellent image details even when printed large and also enables several new benefits such as Digital Teleconverter and Safety Zoom.
Coleco Sonic Handheld
Even if all these "next-gen" consoles are too confusing for dear old dad, surely he can get down with a single D-pad and two measly buttons. The Coleco Sonic Handheld offers up 20 old-school Sega games that anyone can master, and at only $50, it's a cheap way to distract him from telling his boring stories at yet another family event.
Garmin nuvi 660
With a gorgeous widescreen display, the Garmin nüvi 660 GPS Personal Travel Assistant is your answer to the call of adventure. A sleek navigator and a keen travel assistant, the nüvi 660 is preloaded with highly detailed City Navigator NT road maps for the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This map database features nearly six million points of interest (POIs), including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions, and the data is provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping.
A Living Picture Momento 100
Share the moment with the Momento 100 wireless digital picture frame. Easy to set up and use, Momento allows you to display your pictures from your computer running Windows Vista, Windows XP with WMP 11, memory cards, USB drives, on device storage and through Momento Live service. With Momento live, friends and family can send pictures direct to your Momento from anywhere in the world -- share the moment as it happens. A Momento Live service trial subscription is included with the purchase of a Momento wireless digital picture frame.
Sirius Stiletto
Ultra-portable, the Sirius Stiletto SL100 satellite radio receiver features a built-in antenna that allows reception of the Sirius signal without the need for an external car or home docking station. Best of all, this receiver offers up to 100 hours of storage capacity and can handle MP3 and WMA files, enabling you to mix Sirius content with your own personal music collection. It provides up to 800 MB of storage for personal digital audio files, and it provides compatibility for most internet music subscription services and music stores
Sony Ericsson MBW-100
Every guy secretly wants to lead the James Bond lifestyle, and while it's probably not a good idea to retrofit his BMW with surface-to-air missles, you can still hook him up with a high-tech watch. Sony Ericsson's MBW-100 Bluetooth model should fit the bill: it'll help him impress his buddies every time a call comes in, and it looks way snazzier than past attempts at merging wrist with CallerID.
Top 5 Family Beaches in America
Beaches have something for everyone. There's adventure, relaxation, and entertainment. And the range of accommodation choices, from resorts and combos to shacks and camp tents, caters to every taste and budget. Also, a beach vacation provides families with an excellent opportunity for bonding.
Here is GreatDad's list of the best five beaches for dads to take their families to for the vacations:
5. Cooper's Beach: This white sandy beach is located on Long Island, Southampton. Take a leisurely stroll to see the historic mansions that line the beach. Kids can even enjoy a "polar bear swim" in winter. The beach has lifeguard facilities in summer.
4. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: This beach, located in Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, provides ideal holiday recreation with swimming, surfing, and boating. The nearby Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge has interesting children's programs. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is also worth a visit. The presence of wintering waterfowl makes this beach popular with birders.
3. Hanalei Bay Beach: This spectacular beach is on the North Coast of the island of Kauai in the beach capital of the world, Hawaii. The expansive shoreline is perfect for swimming and other water sports—the place for kids to have their first surfing lessons. The sleepy town of Hanalei nearby is also worth exploring.
2. Caladesi Island: Located in the Clearwater/Dunedin area on Florida's west coast near St. Petersburg, this is a natural wonder that can only be reached by boat. A favorite with nature enthusiasts, this sparkling beach offers opportunities for boating and kayaking through wild mangrove trails. Kids will love the sea turtles that come ashore to lay eggs on the dunes. The three-mile-long nature trail is an exciting hiking option.
1. Siesta Beach: Located in Siesta Key, near Sarasota, Florida, this beach scores on account of its dazzling sand and azure water. The soft, pure-white sand has been described as the whitest and finest on any beach in the world. It is said to be so reflective that it never gets hot, remaining cool even on the hottest of days.
Here is GreatDad's list of the best five beaches for dads to take their families to for the vacations:
5. Cooper's Beach: This white sandy beach is located on Long Island, Southampton. Take a leisurely stroll to see the historic mansions that line the beach. Kids can even enjoy a "polar bear swim" in winter. The beach has lifeguard facilities in summer.
4. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: This beach, located in Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, provides ideal holiday recreation with swimming, surfing, and boating. The nearby Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge has interesting children's programs. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is also worth a visit. The presence of wintering waterfowl makes this beach popular with birders.
3. Hanalei Bay Beach: This spectacular beach is on the North Coast of the island of Kauai in the beach capital of the world, Hawaii. The expansive shoreline is perfect for swimming and other water sports—the place for kids to have their first surfing lessons. The sleepy town of Hanalei nearby is also worth exploring.
2. Caladesi Island: Located in the Clearwater/Dunedin area on Florida's west coast near St. Petersburg, this is a natural wonder that can only be reached by boat. A favorite with nature enthusiasts, this sparkling beach offers opportunities for boating and kayaking through wild mangrove trails. Kids will love the sea turtles that come ashore to lay eggs on the dunes. The three-mile-long nature trail is an exciting hiking option.
1. Siesta Beach: Located in Siesta Key, near Sarasota, Florida, this beach scores on account of its dazzling sand and azure water. The soft, pure-white sand has been described as the whitest and finest on any beach in the world. It is said to be so reflective that it never gets hot, remaining cool even on the hottest of days.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
20 Places in America to Take Your Kids Before They Grow Up
We're lucky to live in a country with a huge variety of natural and made-made wonders to see. There's nothing like seeing these things for the first time, but a very close second best is seeing them with a child. Here is our list of places you should plan to see with your child before they grow up:
Natural wonders
• The Grand Canyon, Arizona - one of the natural wonders of the world. The first site will take your breath away.
• Niagara Falls, New York - kids will be amazed by the 6 million cubic feet of water that go over the falls EVERY minute. Make sure to take the Maid of the Mist boat ride to get the full effect of the falls.
• Glacier Bay, Alaska - quick before the glacier melts away.
• Yosemite National Park - photographed endlessly by Weston and Adams, this is the most rugged of all American parks.
Man made wonders
• Mount Rushmore - so oozing in patriotic fervor, it looks like it would have had to have been created in Hollywood, if it hadn't been built by 400 men over 14 years.
• The Golden Gate Bridge - spans the beautiful San Francisco Bay and is one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.
• Hoover Dam - big big BIG
Historic Civil War battlefields
• Gettysburg - the bloodiest battle of the war, and where Lincoln made his most famous speech.
• Appomattox - where Lee surrendered to Grant to end the Civil War.
• Vicksburg - One of the most famous battles, this one to gain control of the Mississippi.
Deserts
• Badlands National Park South Dakota - like a lunar landscape, run over by prairie dogs.
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada - just outside Vegas, and one of the most beautiful red sunsets anywhere.
• Painted Desert, Arizona - home of the petrified forest.
• Death Valley, California - 280 feet below sea level, unworldly, and perfect for watching the stars.
Cities
• New York - perhaps the greatest city on earth. Your kids won't believe it. Make sure to see the Statue of Liberty up close.
• Boston - history abounds, like a book come to life.
• San Francisco - a one-of-a-kind wonder, perhaps the most beautiful city for natural beauty in the world.
• Washington DC - center of American democracy, and the ultimate civics lesson.
• Chicago - the greatest mid-Western city at the soul of America itself.
• Savannah Georgia - historic old South, renowned for its architecture.
• Charleston, S. Carolina - last remaining remnants of the old South before it Sherman burned it down.
Great beaches
• Cannon Beach, Oregon - one of the most untouched beaches in the U.S.
• Poipu Beach, Hawaii - kid-friendly, with ample opportunities for shallow snorkeling for children.
• Ocracoke LIfeguard Beach, North Carolina - so private that "banker ponies" still wander freely.
A holiday vacation provides families with an excellent opportunity for bonding. Find unique holiday gifts ideas for dads, kids and moms.
Natural wonders
• The Grand Canyon, Arizona - one of the natural wonders of the world. The first site will take your breath away.
• Niagara Falls, New York - kids will be amazed by the 6 million cubic feet of water that go over the falls EVERY minute. Make sure to take the Maid of the Mist boat ride to get the full effect of the falls.
• Glacier Bay, Alaska - quick before the glacier melts away.
• Yosemite National Park - photographed endlessly by Weston and Adams, this is the most rugged of all American parks.
Man made wonders
• Mount Rushmore - so oozing in patriotic fervor, it looks like it would have had to have been created in Hollywood, if it hadn't been built by 400 men over 14 years.
• The Golden Gate Bridge - spans the beautiful San Francisco Bay and is one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.
• Hoover Dam - big big BIG
Historic Civil War battlefields
• Gettysburg - the bloodiest battle of the war, and where Lincoln made his most famous speech.
• Appomattox - where Lee surrendered to Grant to end the Civil War.
• Vicksburg - One of the most famous battles, this one to gain control of the Mississippi.
Deserts
• Badlands National Park South Dakota - like a lunar landscape, run over by prairie dogs.
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada - just outside Vegas, and one of the most beautiful red sunsets anywhere.
• Painted Desert, Arizona - home of the petrified forest.
• Death Valley, California - 280 feet below sea level, unworldly, and perfect for watching the stars.
Cities
• New York - perhaps the greatest city on earth. Your kids won't believe it. Make sure to see the Statue of Liberty up close.
• Boston - history abounds, like a book come to life.
• San Francisco - a one-of-a-kind wonder, perhaps the most beautiful city for natural beauty in the world.
• Washington DC - center of American democracy, and the ultimate civics lesson.
• Chicago - the greatest mid-Western city at the soul of America itself.
• Savannah Georgia - historic old South, renowned for its architecture.
• Charleston, S. Carolina - last remaining remnants of the old South before it Sherman burned it down.
Great beaches
• Cannon Beach, Oregon - one of the most untouched beaches in the U.S.
• Poipu Beach, Hawaii - kid-friendly, with ample opportunities for shallow snorkeling for children.
• Ocracoke LIfeguard Beach, North Carolina - so private that "banker ponies" still wander freely.
A holiday vacation provides families with an excellent opportunity for bonding. Find unique holiday gifts ideas for dads, kids and moms.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)