Choosing a babysitter is a tough job. It is difficult to judge whether a babysitter candidate is truly the best person to care for your little ones. Each child has different needs, and you also want to make sure they are cared for in way consistent with your parenting style. One way to to reduce risk is to choose to hire a professional babysitter.
A professional babysitter is simply a man or woman who is making babysitting or nanny care their major job. They may or may not have formal training, but should come with very positive references from past employers.
There are definitely advantages in employing a professional babysitter, some of which are described below:
* Professional babysitters are usually trained in every aspect of child rearing, including emergency first aid and CPR. They are also more aware of safety issues around the home and can help prevent issues before they occur.
* A professional babysitter has a greater sense of commitment to the job as compared to young teenagers who take up babysitting to earn some pocket money. Moreover, they are more hands-on when it comes to handling children, and less surprised by how real-life babies and kids act. In fact, professional babysitters who have experience can be a great help to new parents. They can give practical advice on how to feed, bathe, and take care of a small baby based n their own experience. For the new parent who is open to this advice and may not have other family around, this can be a very positive advantage.
* Professional babysitters have a natural liking for children, understand child psychology, and enjoy being with babies and kids. They are more capable of understanding your children and making them comfortable. This creates a healthy and stable environment at home even in your absence.
Here are a few tips before you hire any new babysitter:
1. Make sure to ask for multiple references and talk to all of them to make sure you hear consistent reports on the babysitter's ability and trustworthiness.
2. You should also ask to see first aid and CPR certificates and proof of any related coursework that has been discussed during your interview.
3. Make sure to allow your child to play with the babysitter unsupervised and check in to see how things going. While your child won't make the final decision on a new babysitter, don't choose a babysitter that doesn't "click" with your child.
4. Finally, trust your gut instinct. The babysitter has to integrate well with your family and parenting style. If you are hesitating for any reason, meet more candidates until you're sure you have the right babysitter for you and your child.
Professional babysitters will definitely cost more, up to 50% or more higher than the local teenager helper, but you will enjoy greater peace of mind with an experienced pro, especially if you have a new baby.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Crib Safety for Babies
The safety of your baby, while left unattended in his crib, is always a concern. You can ensure your child's safety by taking safeguards to avoid accidents. These are among the things you can do:
• Ensure that the crib rails are high enough to prevent your baby from climbing over them. Do not leave pillows or mattresses that can make it easy for him to climb over.
• Ensure that you place your child's crib a safe distance from any windows. The curtain cords could pose a risk of strangling. If you do decide to have the crib within reach of the window, remove the cords, or use safety tassles or some other device so that your baby cannot reach for them.
• Always keep the side of the crib that drops pulled up and fastened to prevent your baby falling. This is, of course, especially crucial when the baby is alone and unattended.
• When your child starts using a bed, ensure that it has guardrails to prevent falls.
• Dress your baby in snugly fitting clothes. Clothes that fit loosely increase the risk of catching fire and burn more easily. Always buy flame resistant clothes. However, if you purchase clothes that are not flame resistant, (with yellow tag labels), ensure that they fit snugly.
• Install a smoke detector in your child's room near the crib. Remember to put in new batteries about once every year.
Your baby's crib needs to be a very safe place. Here are some tips to follow to make sure the crib will not harm your baby:
• If you buy a new mattress, be sure to remove and discard all plastic wrapping.
• The mattress should fit the crib snugly so your baby cannot slip between it and the side of the crib.
• Be sure the crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart so that your baby's head can't get caught between them.
• If you use a bumper pad, make sure that it goes all the way around the crib. Make sure the bumper pad is tied with at least six straps or ties. Ties should be no more than six inches long to prevent strangulation. Make sure your baby cannot get caught between the mattress and the bumper pad.
• Mobiles and other hanging toys should be high enough so that your baby cannot reach them.
• Do not put toys, stuffed animals, pillows or extra bedding in your baby's crib. These things can block your baby's breathing.
• Toys should not be tied to the crib because your baby can get caught in the cords.
• Cutouts in the headboard and footboard should be smaller than your baby's head so she doesn't get trapped in them.
• Place the crib away from windows. Cords attached to blinds or curtains can choke your baby if she gets caught in them.
• Ensure that the crib rails are high enough to prevent your baby from climbing over them. Do not leave pillows or mattresses that can make it easy for him to climb over.
• Ensure that you place your child's crib a safe distance from any windows. The curtain cords could pose a risk of strangling. If you do decide to have the crib within reach of the window, remove the cords, or use safety tassles or some other device so that your baby cannot reach for them.
• Always keep the side of the crib that drops pulled up and fastened to prevent your baby falling. This is, of course, especially crucial when the baby is alone and unattended.
• When your child starts using a bed, ensure that it has guardrails to prevent falls.
• Dress your baby in snugly fitting clothes. Clothes that fit loosely increase the risk of catching fire and burn more easily. Always buy flame resistant clothes. However, if you purchase clothes that are not flame resistant, (with yellow tag labels), ensure that they fit snugly.
• Install a smoke detector in your child's room near the crib. Remember to put in new batteries about once every year.
Your baby's crib needs to be a very safe place. Here are some tips to follow to make sure the crib will not harm your baby:
• If you buy a new mattress, be sure to remove and discard all plastic wrapping.
• The mattress should fit the crib snugly so your baby cannot slip between it and the side of the crib.
• Be sure the crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart so that your baby's head can't get caught between them.
• If you use a bumper pad, make sure that it goes all the way around the crib. Make sure the bumper pad is tied with at least six straps or ties. Ties should be no more than six inches long to prevent strangulation. Make sure your baby cannot get caught between the mattress and the bumper pad.
• Mobiles and other hanging toys should be high enough so that your baby cannot reach them.
• Do not put toys, stuffed animals, pillows or extra bedding in your baby's crib. These things can block your baby's breathing.
• Toys should not be tied to the crib because your baby can get caught in the cords.
• Cutouts in the headboard and footboard should be smaller than your baby's head so she doesn't get trapped in them.
• Place the crib away from windows. Cords attached to blinds or curtains can choke your baby if she gets caught in them.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Chores for Money
If your child is older than five, you've probably already started an allowance. By age six or seven, you also might have started giving weekly chore assignments. You may have also debated the value of tying the two together and entered into yet another debate on parenting. The two sides:
"The allowance pays for the chores" This side says that we live in a world that rewards people financially for their efforts and kids should understand the way the world works. "You don't get anything for nothing" goes the argument, which maybe is as truer for the kids as the parents in this case.
"You do chores because it's part of the responsibility in a family this side says that kids should do chores just because they are in the "collective" known as a "family." Mommy and daddy don't look for an allowance for doing things. The allowance is just a way to get spending money. If you tie the allowance to chores, good luck getting kids to do anything without opening your wallet with each request.
Some people say that your philosophy will tend to mirror your political persuasion Conservatives may be more likely to endorse the more capitalist "money for chores" approach. More "liberal" parents tend to believe in the value of learning that certain responsibilities just go along with being part of a family.
It's a debate with no real answer and without much option for experimentation - it's best to choose one strategy and stick to it. You may however, choose a hybrid, requiring some chores "just because" while allowing for extra spending money for the tasks that go beyond the call of duty.
Experts differ on whether an allowance for kids should be given as a reward for chores or if an allowance is a separate thing because chores are just part of the responsibility of being in a family. Make sure you monitor how great your child's workload is. Don't pile on too much extra work if he or she is already over-scheduled on activities.
"The allowance pays for the chores" This side says that we live in a world that rewards people financially for their efforts and kids should understand the way the world works. "You don't get anything for nothing" goes the argument, which maybe is as truer for the kids as the parents in this case.
"You do chores because it's part of the responsibility in a family this side says that kids should do chores just because they are in the "collective" known as a "family." Mommy and daddy don't look for an allowance for doing things. The allowance is just a way to get spending money. If you tie the allowance to chores, good luck getting kids to do anything without opening your wallet with each request.
Some people say that your philosophy will tend to mirror your political persuasion Conservatives may be more likely to endorse the more capitalist "money for chores" approach. More "liberal" parents tend to believe in the value of learning that certain responsibilities just go along with being part of a family.
It's a debate with no real answer and without much option for experimentation - it's best to choose one strategy and stick to it. You may however, choose a hybrid, requiring some chores "just because" while allowing for extra spending money for the tasks that go beyond the call of duty.
Experts differ on whether an allowance for kids should be given as a reward for chores or if an allowance is a separate thing because chores are just part of the responsibility of being in a family. Make sure you monitor how great your child's workload is. Don't pile on too much extra work if he or she is already over-scheduled on activities.
Breath-Holding in Toddlers
Although it is very common, watching toddlers holding their breath can be a frightful thing for a parent to experience. Some call it the 'nuclear option' in a child's weaponry. About 20 percent of toddlers use this technique to express their discontent or to get what they want – and considering the effect, they often do.
These spells are usually part of a child's temper tantrums. Here are a few common signs to look out for:
* Breathing out forcefully followed by holding breath for a long time
* Turning pale or blue
Soon after one of the above signs show up, chances are your toddlers will pass out and collapse to the ground. In some cases, your toddler's legs and arms may twitch and the body may suffer mild convolutions. This situation usually lasts for under a minute and is not a medical condition over which you should be worried.
Even though this is a common tantrum it should be stringently discouraged. Here are a few tips on how to avoid a breath-holding tantrum in your toddler:
* Do not pay overmuch attention to such tantrums.
* Find out the possible cause behind such behavior and eliminate the cause.
* Try to divert your toddler's attention to a pleasant situation making the toddler forget the whole idea of breath holding.
If your toddler succumbs to this tantrum, remember:
* Do not panic-toddlers may take advantage of the fact that you are scared and resort to tantrums more often to get what they want.
* Make your toddler lie down to increase the flow of blood to the brain and within seconds it will be alright.
* The first time this happens, you may consider taking your toddler to the doctor to ensure it is a breath-holding tantrum indeed.
These spells are usually part of a child's temper tantrums. Here are a few common signs to look out for:
* Breathing out forcefully followed by holding breath for a long time
* Turning pale or blue
Soon after one of the above signs show up, chances are your toddlers will pass out and collapse to the ground. In some cases, your toddler's legs and arms may twitch and the body may suffer mild convolutions. This situation usually lasts for under a minute and is not a medical condition over which you should be worried.
Even though this is a common tantrum it should be stringently discouraged. Here are a few tips on how to avoid a breath-holding tantrum in your toddler:
* Do not pay overmuch attention to such tantrums.
* Find out the possible cause behind such behavior and eliminate the cause.
* Try to divert your toddler's attention to a pleasant situation making the toddler forget the whole idea of breath holding.
If your toddler succumbs to this tantrum, remember:
* Do not panic-toddlers may take advantage of the fact that you are scared and resort to tantrums more often to get what they want.
* Make your toddler lie down to increase the flow of blood to the brain and within seconds it will be alright.
* The first time this happens, you may consider taking your toddler to the doctor to ensure it is a breath-holding tantrum indeed.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Bonding with Your Kids
Dads' traditional role as breadwinners means that they spend relatively less time with their kids than the moms. Breadwinner dads often need to be creative regarding things to do with their kids. Here are some tips to help dads bond with their kids:
* Make time for them: Reserve some part of your day exclusively for your kids. Spend this time doing something together, like going for a jog in the morning, or playing a game of scrabble in the evenings.
* Plan outings: Take your family out for a picnic. Weekend outings provide an excellent opportunity for bonding and suit even dads who work tight schedules during the week. A longer annual vacation is another time when the family can look forward to spending quality time together.
* Look beyond the idiot box: While television has its benefits, it is generally not a great idea for fostering family togetherness. Restrict television viewing in your home to make time for other interactive activities.
* Talk with your kids: Find things to talk about with your kids; it could be stories from your day at work, or some interesting anecdotes from your childhood. Similarly, encourage your kids to tell you about the details of their day at school.
* Share a hobby: Getting your kids to take an interest in your hobby is another great idea for bonding. Whether you are into gardening, aeromodelling, or photography, sharing a passion with your children is fun, and presents an opportunity for teamwork.
* Help with the homework: Helping kids with homework or school projects is one way for dads to share active parenting duties, while, at the same time, connecting with the kids.
* Enlist their help: Get your kids to help with household chores, such as washing the car or mowing the lawn. They not only learn to be productive, but enjoy the activity.
* Eat with them: The number one way you can make sure they eat right and also keep open communication with you is to eat one meal together as a family every day.
* Make time for them: Reserve some part of your day exclusively for your kids. Spend this time doing something together, like going for a jog in the morning, or playing a game of scrabble in the evenings.
* Plan outings: Take your family out for a picnic. Weekend outings provide an excellent opportunity for bonding and suit even dads who work tight schedules during the week. A longer annual vacation is another time when the family can look forward to spending quality time together.
* Look beyond the idiot box: While television has its benefits, it is generally not a great idea for fostering family togetherness. Restrict television viewing in your home to make time for other interactive activities.
* Talk with your kids: Find things to talk about with your kids; it could be stories from your day at work, or some interesting anecdotes from your childhood. Similarly, encourage your kids to tell you about the details of their day at school.
* Share a hobby: Getting your kids to take an interest in your hobby is another great idea for bonding. Whether you are into gardening, aeromodelling, or photography, sharing a passion with your children is fun, and presents an opportunity for teamwork.
* Help with the homework: Helping kids with homework or school projects is one way for dads to share active parenting duties, while, at the same time, connecting with the kids.
* Enlist their help: Get your kids to help with household chores, such as washing the car or mowing the lawn. They not only learn to be productive, but enjoy the activity.
* Eat with them: The number one way you can make sure they eat right and also keep open communication with you is to eat one meal together as a family every day.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
How to Take your Baby's Temperature
If you suspect your baby feels warmer than usual you may need to check for fever. Always use a modern digital thermometer to take your child's temperature. These are not only more accurate and easy to use, but also avoid the risk involved in older designs that use mercury.
While the rectal temperature is the most accurate method for babies and very small children, parents often opt for the less accurate armpit reading because it is easier to do for a first reading. You can take your child's temperature in the following ways:
* Rectum: Let your baby lie down on the stomach or on the side. Then apply a little petroleum jelly on the thermometer tip and gently insert it into your child's rectum. Avoid the use of force and take care not to insert more than about an inch from the tip. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading.
This method usually gives the most accurate results. It is best for children who are older than three months old. For reasons of hygiene, do not use a thermometer that you insert rectally, inside your child's mouth. However, if you must, clean it with rubbing alcohol before you do so.
* Mouth: Position the tip of the thermometer under your child's tongue. Ask your child to close his mouth, while keeping it in place with the lips so that it does not shift from under the tongue. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading.
This method is ideal for older kids; those over four years old.
* Armpit: Position the thermometer under your baby's armpit in such a way, that it lies in direct contact with the skin. Hold your child steady. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading. This is the least accurate method. It is ideal for a primary reading in case of babies who are younger than three months old. If on the higher side (above 99° F), it can be followed up with a rectal reading.
Call the doctor immediately if:
* Your child under 3 months old records a temperature of 100.4° F or higher.
* Your child over three months old records a temperature higher than 104° F.
While the rectal temperature is the most accurate method for babies and very small children, parents often opt for the less accurate armpit reading because it is easier to do for a first reading. You can take your child's temperature in the following ways:
* Rectum: Let your baby lie down on the stomach or on the side. Then apply a little petroleum jelly on the thermometer tip and gently insert it into your child's rectum. Avoid the use of force and take care not to insert more than about an inch from the tip. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading.
This method usually gives the most accurate results. It is best for children who are older than three months old. For reasons of hygiene, do not use a thermometer that you insert rectally, inside your child's mouth. However, if you must, clean it with rubbing alcohol before you do so.
* Mouth: Position the tip of the thermometer under your child's tongue. Ask your child to close his mouth, while keeping it in place with the lips so that it does not shift from under the tongue. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading.
This method is ideal for older kids; those over four years old.
* Armpit: Position the thermometer under your baby's armpit in such a way, that it lies in direct contact with the skin. Hold your child steady. Keep the thermometer in place until it beeps, then remove it and take the reading. This is the least accurate method. It is ideal for a primary reading in case of babies who are younger than three months old. If on the higher side (above 99° F), it can be followed up with a rectal reading.
Call the doctor immediately if:
* Your child under 3 months old records a temperature of 100.4° F or higher.
* Your child over three months old records a temperature higher than 104° F.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
When your Kids says NO
At first, it may seem a little disconcerting to hear your children say "no."
As a parent, you should quickly get used to it, as it is soon going to become your child's favorite word. Saying 'no' is sometimes their only way to assert their dominance.
Back-talk, refusals, and tantrums may actually be experiments tried out by your children to explore their limits. They wish to know how many elements they can control in their small and fragile lives.
Things can go wrong if we punish toddlers harshly or unreasonably for bad behavior or for being mischievous. This defeats their purpose, which has a broader scope of helping them discover their individuality. When the punishment is unduly harsh or unreasonable, they feel offended and their conduct gets worse. They are hurt and may then want to hurt back.
Here are some tips to counter this situation and improve your child's behavior:
• While setting rules in the house take them into confidence and set rules that are agreeable to both, the parent and the child.
• When setting penalties, elicit their agreement.
• Make them follow these rules consistently.
• Be firm yet gentle and reasonable when enforcing penalties.
• Show them how people follow rules in the city, on roads, in gardens etc.
• Reward them for being good and following the rules.
• Set rules for yourself to follow as a parent and expose your children to examples of good behavior.
• You might be surprised if you give your child the right to call you out when you don't say please or thank you.
As a parent, you should quickly get used to it, as it is soon going to become your child's favorite word. Saying 'no' is sometimes their only way to assert their dominance.
Back-talk, refusals, and tantrums may actually be experiments tried out by your children to explore their limits. They wish to know how many elements they can control in their small and fragile lives.
Things can go wrong if we punish toddlers harshly or unreasonably for bad behavior or for being mischievous. This defeats their purpose, which has a broader scope of helping them discover their individuality. When the punishment is unduly harsh or unreasonable, they feel offended and their conduct gets worse. They are hurt and may then want to hurt back.
Here are some tips to counter this situation and improve your child's behavior:
• While setting rules in the house take them into confidence and set rules that are agreeable to both, the parent and the child.
• When setting penalties, elicit their agreement.
• Make them follow these rules consistently.
• Be firm yet gentle and reasonable when enforcing penalties.
• Show them how people follow rules in the city, on roads, in gardens etc.
• Reward them for being good and following the rules.
• Set rules for yourself to follow as a parent and expose your children to examples of good behavior.
• You might be surprised if you give your child the right to call you out when you don't say please or thank you.
Know More About Postpartum Depression In Dads
Postpartum depression is traditionally thought to affect exclusively moms as they are the ones who go through the most significant changes in their bodies and their psyches. However, it is common among dads too. In fact, a recent study published in the August 2006 issue of the journal Pediatrics, reports that about ten percent of all fathers in the U. S. are affected by postpartum depression.
Symptoms of postpartum depression in dads may include:
• Strong feelings of emptiness or sadness
• Tendency to withdraw from others such as family and friends
• Feelings of failure
• Suicidal thoughts
Dads who suffer from postpartum depression:
• Exhibit reduced positive interaction with their babies.
• Are less likely to read stories, talk, or sing to their babies.
Additionally, babies whose parents both suffer from depression are:
• Fussier and less well-socialized
• Less likely to be put on their backs to sleep-this is important as it helps prevent the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Less likely to be breastfed.
• More likely to be put in bed with a bottle-a practice linked with tooth decay and ear infection.
Possible reasons for postpartum depression among dads include:
• Increased responsibilities
• Financial worries
• Feelings of entrapment
• Loss of freedom
Dads can avoid postpartum depression by:
• Watching for symptoms that signal depression such as increasing irritability or hostility.
• Discussing their problems with a doctor or a counselor who can deliver diagnosis and treatment for the same.
• Sharing their feelings with their spouses.
You are truly ecstatic about the impending birth of your baby. But, deep down, you are also grappling with fears regarding your new status as a father. Read some of the emotions many new fathers feel.
Symptoms of postpartum depression in dads may include:
• Strong feelings of emptiness or sadness
• Tendency to withdraw from others such as family and friends
• Feelings of failure
• Suicidal thoughts
Dads who suffer from postpartum depression:
• Exhibit reduced positive interaction with their babies.
• Are less likely to read stories, talk, or sing to their babies.
Additionally, babies whose parents both suffer from depression are:
• Fussier and less well-socialized
• Less likely to be put on their backs to sleep-this is important as it helps prevent the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Less likely to be breastfed.
• More likely to be put in bed with a bottle-a practice linked with tooth decay and ear infection.
Possible reasons for postpartum depression among dads include:
• Increased responsibilities
• Financial worries
• Feelings of entrapment
• Loss of freedom
Dads can avoid postpartum depression by:
• Watching for symptoms that signal depression such as increasing irritability or hostility.
• Discussing their problems with a doctor or a counselor who can deliver diagnosis and treatment for the same.
• Sharing their feelings with their spouses.
You are truly ecstatic about the impending birth of your baby. But, deep down, you are also grappling with fears regarding your new status as a father. Read some of the emotions many new fathers feel.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Being a Single Teen Parent is Not Easy
Taking care of children is harder for single parents. Single parents often don't have someone to help take care of the baby. Single parents often don't have someone to help make decisions. Also, it is harder for single parents to see their friends. Caring for the baby takes up so much time.
But it is important to spend some time with other adults, and not just at work. Go out with friends and family. Make sure your baby is well cared for when you are gone. It is not selfish to have some time for yourself. Take a break once a week to avoid stress.
Your baby, whether a boy or girl, needs to spend time with people of both sexes. Children need to know other adults, both men and women, who are calm, friendly, warm and trustworthy. Also, as children grow up, they need to be with other children. Boys need to play with other boys some of the time. Girls need to play with other girls some of the time.
The teen years are a special time in your life. Being a new parent is also special. Both come with their own joys and problems.
Being a single teen parent is not easy. In order to give your baby the best, you need a lot of love and support.
Many school districts have special programs to help teen parents. Some have programs for pregnant teens and teen mothers that include child care for babies while the teen mom goes to school. Some larger school districts have programs with flexible hours. These programs make it easier for teen parents to work and still go to school. Call your school district to find out if there is a program near you.
There are reasons why school is important to teen parents. Here are some of them:
• You can get a better job if you finish high school. A high school diploma is required for most jobs. A high school diploma is needed if you want to go to college.
• You will be a good example for your child. You will be able to help her when she goes to school.
• Ask your school district if it has a special program for teen parents. Ask about how to get your General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
But it is important to spend some time with other adults, and not just at work. Go out with friends and family. Make sure your baby is well cared for when you are gone. It is not selfish to have some time for yourself. Take a break once a week to avoid stress.
Your baby, whether a boy or girl, needs to spend time with people of both sexes. Children need to know other adults, both men and women, who are calm, friendly, warm and trustworthy. Also, as children grow up, they need to be with other children. Boys need to play with other boys some of the time. Girls need to play with other girls some of the time.
The teen years are a special time in your life. Being a new parent is also special. Both come with their own joys and problems.
Being a single teen parent is not easy. In order to give your baby the best, you need a lot of love and support.
Many school districts have special programs to help teen parents. Some have programs for pregnant teens and teen mothers that include child care for babies while the teen mom goes to school. Some larger school districts have programs with flexible hours. These programs make it easier for teen parents to work and still go to school. Call your school district to find out if there is a program near you.
There are reasons why school is important to teen parents. Here are some of them:
• You can get a better job if you finish high school. A high school diploma is required for most jobs. A high school diploma is needed if you want to go to college.
• You will be a good example for your child. You will be able to help her when she goes to school.
• Ask your school district if it has a special program for teen parents. Ask about how to get your General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Tips for Baby Pacifiers
By now you have noticed that your baby sucks his fingers and hands a lot. Sucking brings pleasure to a baby. This is a strong need in babies this age. Being able to suck his own fingers and hands means he can make himself feel good all by himself. Sucking helps him feel happy and calm. Sometimes sucking fingers is a sign of hunger.
A baby often sucks his fingers or pacifier while he watches and learns about his world. As something grabs his attention, he may stop sucking for a moment to watch. He will then start to suck again.
Many parents buy pacifiers for their babies. You may have heard that paci-fiers can harm a baby's mouth. You may have heard that pacifiers will keep a baby from developing correctly. A pacifier isn't necessary. But it's OK if your baby uses one.
Never tie or pin a pacifier to your baby's clothes. The ribbon or string could get wrapped around his neck. This could choke him. A pin in your baby's clothes can stick him.
Be sure to buy the kind of pacifier that cannot come apart. Be sure it can be washed in a dishwasher. Clean the pacifier often. You can clean it by boiling it in water or putting it in the dishwasher.
Never dip a pacifier in sweet liquids, honey or syrups to make it tasty. Germs in honey and syrups can make your baby sick. Sweets may cause tooth decay when your baby is older.
A baby often sucks his fingers or pacifier while he watches and learns about his world. As something grabs his attention, he may stop sucking for a moment to watch. He will then start to suck again.
Many parents buy pacifiers for their babies. You may have heard that paci-fiers can harm a baby's mouth. You may have heard that pacifiers will keep a baby from developing correctly. A pacifier isn't necessary. But it's OK if your baby uses one.
Never tie or pin a pacifier to your baby's clothes. The ribbon or string could get wrapped around his neck. This could choke him. A pin in your baby's clothes can stick him.
Be sure to buy the kind of pacifier that cannot come apart. Be sure it can be washed in a dishwasher. Clean the pacifier often. You can clean it by boiling it in water or putting it in the dishwasher.
Never dip a pacifier in sweet liquids, honey or syrups to make it tasty. Germs in honey and syrups can make your baby sick. Sweets may cause tooth decay when your baby is older.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Choosing Quality Daycare for Your Child
The right daycare center is important to ensure your child's safety and well-being. While quite a few daycare centers are good, others are not. It is therefore important to select a center where you can be sure that your child will be well looked after.
Here is how you can select a good daycare center for your child:
• Determine your requirements: Decide whether you would prefer a big center where several children are present, or a smaller one with fewer children. Location is another consideration: Decide whether the center should be close to your home or your place of work.
• List centers: Once you know your requirements, make a list of the possible daycare centers that fit the bill. You can do this by looking up the Internet and the yellow pages, or by inquiring with your pediatrician or local hospital. An even better way is to consult friends or family members whose advice you can rely upon.
• Research details: Find out important details about the daycare centers you have listed. For instance, is the center certified by the National Association for the Education for Young Children, or the National Association of Family Child Care? Phone them to get details regarding timings, fees, activities, and policies.
• Visit the centers: Once you have narrowed down the list to a few potential centers, pay these places a visit. Look around the place and talk to the people in charge. Decide whether your child would be happy when left here.
Finally, in the weeks after you pick the perfect day-care center, make a few unannounced visits-just to see what goes on when there aren't any parents around. Your parenting style is likely to impact the way your child grows up. Being responsive to your children, and at the same time, setting clear rules and limits, is crucial for you as a parent.
Here is how you can select a good daycare center for your child:
• Determine your requirements: Decide whether you would prefer a big center where several children are present, or a smaller one with fewer children. Location is another consideration: Decide whether the center should be close to your home or your place of work.
• List centers: Once you know your requirements, make a list of the possible daycare centers that fit the bill. You can do this by looking up the Internet and the yellow pages, or by inquiring with your pediatrician or local hospital. An even better way is to consult friends or family members whose advice you can rely upon.
• Research details: Find out important details about the daycare centers you have listed. For instance, is the center certified by the National Association for the Education for Young Children, or the National Association of Family Child Care? Phone them to get details regarding timings, fees, activities, and policies.
• Visit the centers: Once you have narrowed down the list to a few potential centers, pay these places a visit. Look around the place and talk to the people in charge. Decide whether your child would be happy when left here.
Finally, in the weeks after you pick the perfect day-care center, make a few unannounced visits-just to see what goes on when there aren't any parents around. Your parenting style is likely to impact the way your child grows up. Being responsive to your children, and at the same time, setting clear rules and limits, is crucial for you as a parent.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Time to Show You Care for Your Expectant Spouse
With an expanding waistline and hormones going completely crazy, it is natural for the expectant mom to feel insecure. At a time like this it is up to you, as the partner, to step in and make her feel loved and adored. There are a number of ways to do this.
* Giving her a massage: Pregnancy is often attended by unpleasant sensations, stiff joints, and painful swellings. Giving her a gentle massage is one way you can make her feel better after a particularly hard day.
* Helping with the housework: At this stage in her life, your spouse will really appreciate the opportunity for some rest. Lightening her burden, by taking on some of her chores, will tell her how much you love her.
* Making her feel special: Your spouse's pregnancy may have completely unsettled the rhythm of her life. As the pregnancy advances, she may be forced to spend more time at home. You can make her feel special by buying her flowers or chocolates. Playing her favorite music or redecorating the bedroom are other ways in which you can lighten her spirits.
* Informing yourself on pregnancy and your new baby: Now is the time for you to show that you're more than just the reason she's pregnant; you're in it for the long haul. Buy or borrow books on pregnancy that you can read together, or read some dad-oriented books yourself, such as Pickles and Ice Cream: A Father's Guide to Pregnancy, or Every Guy's Guide as to What To Expect When She's Expecting, so you can speak intelligently on the subject.
* Complimenting her looks: It is quite natural for a woman to feel insecure about herself during her pregnancy. With her rapidly expanding figure, she may start having serious doubts about whether you, her husband, still love her just as much as before. Telling her that she looks great will reassure her and put her at ease. In fact this phase, when both of you are eagerly awaiting the birth of your child, can be a great time for bonding. Be aware that in her more vulnerable and less mobile condition, you owe her the constant reassurance that you're there for her. Jokes or statements to the contrary may bring tears or worse. Be doubly thankful at this time that you're not carrying a baby in your stomach.
* Taking her out: There are a number of ways in which you can break the routine of her life and her growing claustrophobia. Take her out to a movie or to a concert. Plan a shopping trip or treat her to a romantic dinner. One caveat: make sure you have a getaway plan if she gets uncomfortable and plan for easy bathroom breaks.
To really be a star husband, fathers-to-be can think of unique ways to show pregnancy care, such as purchasing her favorite flavor of ice cream or painting the nursery unprompted.
* Giving her a massage: Pregnancy is often attended by unpleasant sensations, stiff joints, and painful swellings. Giving her a gentle massage is one way you can make her feel better after a particularly hard day.
* Helping with the housework: At this stage in her life, your spouse will really appreciate the opportunity for some rest. Lightening her burden, by taking on some of her chores, will tell her how much you love her.
* Making her feel special: Your spouse's pregnancy may have completely unsettled the rhythm of her life. As the pregnancy advances, she may be forced to spend more time at home. You can make her feel special by buying her flowers or chocolates. Playing her favorite music or redecorating the bedroom are other ways in which you can lighten her spirits.
* Informing yourself on pregnancy and your new baby: Now is the time for you to show that you're more than just the reason she's pregnant; you're in it for the long haul. Buy or borrow books on pregnancy that you can read together, or read some dad-oriented books yourself, such as Pickles and Ice Cream: A Father's Guide to Pregnancy, or Every Guy's Guide as to What To Expect When She's Expecting, so you can speak intelligently on the subject.
* Complimenting her looks: It is quite natural for a woman to feel insecure about herself during her pregnancy. With her rapidly expanding figure, she may start having serious doubts about whether you, her husband, still love her just as much as before. Telling her that she looks great will reassure her and put her at ease. In fact this phase, when both of you are eagerly awaiting the birth of your child, can be a great time for bonding. Be aware that in her more vulnerable and less mobile condition, you owe her the constant reassurance that you're there for her. Jokes or statements to the contrary may bring tears or worse. Be doubly thankful at this time that you're not carrying a baby in your stomach.
* Taking her out: There are a number of ways in which you can break the routine of her life and her growing claustrophobia. Take her out to a movie or to a concert. Plan a shopping trip or treat her to a romantic dinner. One caveat: make sure you have a getaway plan if she gets uncomfortable and plan for easy bathroom breaks.
To really be a star husband, fathers-to-be can think of unique ways to show pregnancy care, such as purchasing her favorite flavor of ice cream or painting the nursery unprompted.
Monday, February 9, 2009
How to Keep Love Alive During Pregnancy
It's never easy to understand women when it comes to sex and they often experience changes in their sexual drives when they're pregnant: some pregnant wives claim to feel sexier than ever while others feel nauseated just thinking about the act. That said, you should know what to do with the desire when it arrives.
Sex opens up many pathways of communication between couples. And don't forget: women love to be reassured and seduced, especially when they are feeling bloated and uneasy about their bodies. It's the fact that you love her in spite of the facts of her appearance which is truly touching for a woman.
Here are a few strategies to make your pregnant wife fall in love with you again:
* Dinner with flowers: Nothing says you love your woman more than an average pizza and apple pie served by a waiter. If you can order out from your pregnant wife's favorite restaurant, that will be bliss itself. Consider this a major part of the foreplay. On the other hand, if eating out is a constant thing for you, actually making her dinner yourself may be the required angle here. Romance is done around the dinner table, so figure out what will be the big mood changer for your pregnant wife.
* Spice it up: In case you're wondering, here's what you do with the flowers. The idea is to lay out your bedroom with petals and flowers, put on some Marvin Gaye, and do a little dance-who knows? Your pregnant wife might appreciate the comical element.
* The main course: Presuming that you have already allayed her fears about sex, you may now proceed with the main course. Lay your pregnant wife on her back gently and caress her with the tip of your fingers. A massage is not a bad idea provided it doesn't put her to sleep.
* The right stuff: Use a love-making position that is comfortable, one that doesn't put pressure on her abdomen. Be gentle and loving.
* Plan B: If your pregnant wife is uncomfortable with regular intercourse (because of fears for the baby or other discomfort), you might hint at oral sex (for her, not you, dummy. You just have to hope an even trade might be part of the bargain.)
Things to avoid
* Don't get hasty. Work up to things slowly. Don't be inconsistent with your responses to her body. This will be a sure turn off for your wife, pregnant or not.
* Don't try too hard. If she's been suffering from cramps and aches, it's best to just give her a massage and tuck her into bed. Believe us when we say you will get no points for being whiny with a pregnant wife about your rotten sex life.
* Don't force her to do anything she doesn't want to do. It's always your pregnant wife's prerogative to say "no."
* Avoid the missionary position when you make love since this can put too much pressure on your pregnant wife's stomach.
Valentine's Day celebrates romance. It is only natural that you celebrate the occasion by giving your spouse a Romantic Valentine's Day gift.
Sex opens up many pathways of communication between couples. And don't forget: women love to be reassured and seduced, especially when they are feeling bloated and uneasy about their bodies. It's the fact that you love her in spite of the facts of her appearance which is truly touching for a woman.
Here are a few strategies to make your pregnant wife fall in love with you again:
* Dinner with flowers: Nothing says you love your woman more than an average pizza and apple pie served by a waiter. If you can order out from your pregnant wife's favorite restaurant, that will be bliss itself. Consider this a major part of the foreplay. On the other hand, if eating out is a constant thing for you, actually making her dinner yourself may be the required angle here. Romance is done around the dinner table, so figure out what will be the big mood changer for your pregnant wife.
* Spice it up: In case you're wondering, here's what you do with the flowers. The idea is to lay out your bedroom with petals and flowers, put on some Marvin Gaye, and do a little dance-who knows? Your pregnant wife might appreciate the comical element.
* The main course: Presuming that you have already allayed her fears about sex, you may now proceed with the main course. Lay your pregnant wife on her back gently and caress her with the tip of your fingers. A massage is not a bad idea provided it doesn't put her to sleep.
* The right stuff: Use a love-making position that is comfortable, one that doesn't put pressure on her abdomen. Be gentle and loving.
* Plan B: If your pregnant wife is uncomfortable with regular intercourse (because of fears for the baby or other discomfort), you might hint at oral sex (for her, not you, dummy. You just have to hope an even trade might be part of the bargain.)
Things to avoid
* Don't get hasty. Work up to things slowly. Don't be inconsistent with your responses to her body. This will be a sure turn off for your wife, pregnant or not.
* Don't try too hard. If she's been suffering from cramps and aches, it's best to just give her a massage and tuck her into bed. Believe us when we say you will get no points for being whiny with a pregnant wife about your rotten sex life.
* Don't force her to do anything she doesn't want to do. It's always your pregnant wife's prerogative to say "no."
* Avoid the missionary position when you make love since this can put too much pressure on your pregnant wife's stomach.
Valentine's Day celebrates romance. It is only natural that you celebrate the occasion by giving your spouse a Romantic Valentine's Day gift.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Making Paper Doll Chain with Your Kids
Making a paper doll chain is a perfect activity for dads and children on a sleepy afternoon. It is simple and does not require either time or money. Most importantly, it will be an exercise in creativity that the children will surely enjoy.
Things you will need:
• Some cardboard or hard paper
• A pair of scissors
• Pen, crayons, markers, and color pencils
• Glue
• Colorful paper or fabric scraps, buttons, beads, ribbons, sequins, and stickers to decorate the dolls
Steps to make the doll chain:
• Cut out a broad strip of the cardboard or paper. This could be about 10 cm high and as long as you want to make your doll chain.
• Fold about 6 cm of one end of the strip. At the point where the folded end overlaps, fold the strip again, but in the other direction. Go on making similar, alternating folds, so that the entire strip is folded into accordion style panels.
• Hold the folded panels bunched up tightly, with the top panel facing you. Help your children to draw the outline of a doll on this top panel, with the hands and legs spread out so that these extend to the panel borders.
• Carefully cut around the doll, taking care to retain the folds where the hands and legs touch the borders.
• Now unfold the strip to see your chain of dolls, joined by their hands and legs.
• Let your children decorate the dolls using the crayons, markers, color pencils, pieces of fabric, beads, ribbons, etc.
• You can even help your kids cut out little shapes from fabric scraps that they can use to create colorful dresses for the dolls.
You can use this chain to decorate the walls of your living room. You could even stick it around a lampshade, hang it as a mobile, or use it to decorate your child's door.
Things you will need:
• Some cardboard or hard paper
• A pair of scissors
• Pen, crayons, markers, and color pencils
• Glue
• Colorful paper or fabric scraps, buttons, beads, ribbons, sequins, and stickers to decorate the dolls
Steps to make the doll chain:
• Cut out a broad strip of the cardboard or paper. This could be about 10 cm high and as long as you want to make your doll chain.
• Fold about 6 cm of one end of the strip. At the point where the folded end overlaps, fold the strip again, but in the other direction. Go on making similar, alternating folds, so that the entire strip is folded into accordion style panels.
• Hold the folded panels bunched up tightly, with the top panel facing you. Help your children to draw the outline of a doll on this top panel, with the hands and legs spread out so that these extend to the panel borders.
• Carefully cut around the doll, taking care to retain the folds where the hands and legs touch the borders.
• Now unfold the strip to see your chain of dolls, joined by their hands and legs.
• Let your children decorate the dolls using the crayons, markers, color pencils, pieces of fabric, beads, ribbons, etc.
• You can even help your kids cut out little shapes from fabric scraps that they can use to create colorful dresses for the dolls.
You can use this chain to decorate the walls of your living room. You could even stick it around a lampshade, hang it as a mobile, or use it to decorate your child's door.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Valentines Day Roses - Symbol of Love
Valentine day celebrations are incomplete without roses. Rose, also known as the flower of love, is one of the oldest flowers known to man. The word rose has a Latin origin, 'rosa' meaning red. A legend lies behind the origin of this flower. Rose was created by Chloris, the Greek goddess of flowers who created this flower by adding beauty, nectar, and scent to a dead nymph lying in the woods.
There is a lot of thought behind giving roses on Valentine's Day. Valentine Day roses are an ideal gift since each rose type and color is associated with a special meaning pertaining to love. Hence it is unusual that it is one on the most dominant of all Valentine flowers. Discover the meanings of different roses in the following list before you decide on the appropriate one for your beloved.
* Red roses denote romance and love. A red rosebud also means purity whereas a thorn less rose means love at first sight.
* Apart from red ones, popular Valentine roses are purple, coral, and orange. Purple again signifies love at first sight. Coral and orange roses indicate want.
* Yellow roses symbolize friendship and the joys associated with it.
* Pink roses are the right choice if you want to express gratitude and appreciation. A lighter shade signifies sympathy.
* White roses denote peace, purity, admiration, humility, and deep respect.
* Peach may signify either sympathy or appreciation.
* Black roses, though not suitable as a Valentine rose, have a positive as well as a negative interpretation. While some believe it to be a symbol of death and vengeance, others suggest it signifies the death of old habits, thus indicating a new beginning.
There is a lot of thought behind giving roses on Valentine's Day. Valentine Day roses are an ideal gift since each rose type and color is associated with a special meaning pertaining to love. Hence it is unusual that it is one on the most dominant of all Valentine flowers. Discover the meanings of different roses in the following list before you decide on the appropriate one for your beloved.
* Red roses denote romance and love. A red rosebud also means purity whereas a thorn less rose means love at first sight.
* Apart from red ones, popular Valentine roses are purple, coral, and orange. Purple again signifies love at first sight. Coral and orange roses indicate want.
* Yellow roses symbolize friendship and the joys associated with it.
* Pink roses are the right choice if you want to express gratitude and appreciation. A lighter shade signifies sympathy.
* White roses denote peace, purity, admiration, humility, and deep respect.
* Peach may signify either sympathy or appreciation.
* Black roses, though not suitable as a Valentine rose, have a positive as well as a negative interpretation. While some believe it to be a symbol of death and vengeance, others suggest it signifies the death of old habits, thus indicating a new beginning.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Tips on How to Write a Valentine's Day Poem
It is not every day that you celebrate love and affection St. Valentine's way. There are many rituals associated with Valentine's Day celebrations, including expressing your love through poetry. Nothing overwhelms a woman like a poem, whether simple, sappy, or intense. Poems give you a medium to express your deepest emotions in a brand new way.
Give mom a personalized poem this year and celebrate the love you share for her and your family. It will touch her in a way normal presents can't, though you might complement your poem with the gift of roses, hearts, and candles.
You can print out your poem and leave it on her pillow or, if you are blessed with eloquence, you can recite the poem aloud and in front of the whole family. This effort on your part will be greatly appreciated by your beloved.
Valentine Day poems are usually based on the theme of love and beauty. Roses and hearts form an integral part of Valentine poems. Great poets like Shakespeare, Shelly, Byron, and Keats have written beautiful love poems, such as this one by Percy Shelly:
"The fountains mingle with the river
And the rivers with the ocean,
The winds of Heaven mix forever
With a sweet emotion;
Nothing in the world is single;
All things by a law divine
In one spirit meet and mingle.
Why not I with thine? -"
Valentine poems written by Joanna Fuchs and John Masefield are also very popular. They not only write soulful poetry but also short catchy verses for every situation and every aspect of love.
If you don't have a lot of experience writing poetry, you can always start with an old standard:
"Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Sugar is sweet,
And so are you."
From there, either rewrite the last two lines or use the same rhyme scheme to make up your own verse.
More adventurous rhymers might want to try longer poems that use a repeated rhyme scheme (ABAB or ABAC) and carry forward over a longer piece.
Another easy and popular poetic form is haiku. Haiku usually only has three short lines. The first line usually contains five syllables, the second line seven syllables, and the third line contains five syllables. Haiku doesn't rhyme. A Haiku paints a picture in the reader's mind.
Poetry is a challenge and takes some work to put together, but it will be appreciated by your Valentine, especially since it is increasingly rare as a Valentine's Day tribute, unless seen on the inside of a greeting card.
This Valentine's Day, pen your innermost thoughts; weave it into a touching poem which will bring a smile on your Valentine's face.
Give mom a personalized poem this year and celebrate the love you share for her and your family. It will touch her in a way normal presents can't, though you might complement your poem with the gift of roses, hearts, and candles.
You can print out your poem and leave it on her pillow or, if you are blessed with eloquence, you can recite the poem aloud and in front of the whole family. This effort on your part will be greatly appreciated by your beloved.
Valentine Day poems are usually based on the theme of love and beauty. Roses and hearts form an integral part of Valentine poems. Great poets like Shakespeare, Shelly, Byron, and Keats have written beautiful love poems, such as this one by Percy Shelly:
"The fountains mingle with the river
And the rivers with the ocean,
The winds of Heaven mix forever
With a sweet emotion;
Nothing in the world is single;
All things by a law divine
In one spirit meet and mingle.
Why not I with thine? -"
Valentine poems written by Joanna Fuchs and John Masefield are also very popular. They not only write soulful poetry but also short catchy verses for every situation and every aspect of love.
If you don't have a lot of experience writing poetry, you can always start with an old standard:
"Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Sugar is sweet,
And so are you."
From there, either rewrite the last two lines or use the same rhyme scheme to make up your own verse.
More adventurous rhymers might want to try longer poems that use a repeated rhyme scheme (ABAB or ABAC) and carry forward over a longer piece.
Another easy and popular poetic form is haiku. Haiku usually only has three short lines. The first line usually contains five syllables, the second line seven syllables, and the third line contains five syllables. Haiku doesn't rhyme. A Haiku paints a picture in the reader's mind.
Poetry is a challenge and takes some work to put together, but it will be appreciated by your Valentine, especially since it is increasingly rare as a Valentine's Day tribute, unless seen on the inside of a greeting card.
This Valentine's Day, pen your innermost thoughts; weave it into a touching poem which will bring a smile on your Valentine's face.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Valentines Day Crafts Ideas for Kids
A small gift, a favor, an out-of-your-way effort-there are many ways to express your heart on Valentine day. Hand-made crafts are an instant hit when it comes to gifts-they not only are beautiful but also appreciated more because of the effort put into creating them.
Introduce Valentine's Day craft ideas in your family and convert your home into an activity center--the kids will love making these interesting crafts and giving them to people who mean a lot to them. Here are some Valentine's Day craft ideas listed below:
* Wrap a Styrofoam wreath with red ribbon. Glue candy all around and make them overlap each other. Attach a small ribbon loop at on one end so you can hang the wreath. The sweetheart candy wreath is ready.
* Cut two similar-sized hearts from a grocery bag and paste the edges together. Fill the heart with cotton and close the hole. Paint the heart red and spray pink paint over it after the red paint dries. Write a message across the heart with a dark-colored marker. Use buttons, ribbons, etc. to add a few more effects to the heart. Make a loop at one end with a ribbon so the recipient can hang it up.
* This Valentine's Day craft idea is very easy. Take some Styrofoam cups, paint them red and add glitter. Then, write a message on the cup. Fill your Valentine vase with lots of lollipops or flowers, depending on who you want to give it to.
* Take a small mirror and attach it on the inside of a card decorated with cut-outs of flowers and leaves. Make a crown or tiara with silver or golden paper and place it at the top of the mirror. On the outside, write a message complimenting the person who will open the card to see her own reflection wearing the tiara.
* Cut out a heart from a thick cardboard sheet and cut it into pieces so they can be easily rearranged like a jigsaw puzzle. Decorate the pieces and attach messages to some of them.
Introduce Valentine's Day craft ideas in your family and convert your home into an activity center--the kids will love making these interesting crafts and giving them to people who mean a lot to them. Here are some Valentine's Day craft ideas listed below:
* Wrap a Styrofoam wreath with red ribbon. Glue candy all around and make them overlap each other. Attach a small ribbon loop at on one end so you can hang the wreath. The sweetheart candy wreath is ready.
* Cut two similar-sized hearts from a grocery bag and paste the edges together. Fill the heart with cotton and close the hole. Paint the heart red and spray pink paint over it after the red paint dries. Write a message across the heart with a dark-colored marker. Use buttons, ribbons, etc. to add a few more effects to the heart. Make a loop at one end with a ribbon so the recipient can hang it up.
* This Valentine's Day craft idea is very easy. Take some Styrofoam cups, paint them red and add glitter. Then, write a message on the cup. Fill your Valentine vase with lots of lollipops or flowers, depending on who you want to give it to.
* Take a small mirror and attach it on the inside of a card decorated with cut-outs of flowers and leaves. Make a crown or tiara with silver or golden paper and place it at the top of the mirror. On the outside, write a message complimenting the person who will open the card to see her own reflection wearing the tiara.
* Cut out a heart from a thick cardboard sheet and cut it into pieces so they can be easily rearranged like a jigsaw puzzle. Decorate the pieces and attach messages to some of them.
Take to Lessen Lead Poisoning Risk in Kids
There is a lot of talk about lead in the news. Here are some questions you should ask yourself. If you answer yes to any of them, you should dig deeper to learn more about how to control the risk of lead poisoning:
1. Does your child like to put things in his or her mouth?
2. Does your home have peeling paint?
3. Was your home built before 1978?
4. Does your child play in the dirt near your home?
5. Do you live near an industrial facility, especially anything related to treatment of iron ore or steel?
6. Do any neighboring families have instances of lead poisoning (if your child plays in their homes)?
7. Do you or anyone in your family work with lead (jewelry makers, stain glass, plumbers, x-ray, auto mechanics)?
8. Does your child go to a daycare facility built before 1978?
If you have any of the risk factors, which might indicate exposure to lead poisoning for your kids, here are some proactive steps you can take.
1. Test your child. The American Academy of Pediatric recommends testing kids at 12 and 24 months, but if you have some of these risk factors, you may want to test every year through age 6.
2. Don't do home renovations involving removing lead paint unless you've been trained to do so.
3. Have an expert check to assess lead exposure in your house. Go to epa.gov/lead for pros in your area. There has been controversy about the reliability of over-the-counter tests sold at drugstores and hardware stores.
4. If you work with lead, change your clothes and shower before you play with your kids. Wash your clothes separately.
5. Inventory your kids' toys to remove any that have been recalled for lead poisoning.
6. Remove your shoes before walking through your house, especially if you have babies crawling around on the floors who could be exposed to lead poisoning.
7. Run tap water for 30 seconds or use water filters. Remember that lead leeches more into hot water, so never use the hot water tap to fill bottles of formula. You can call the EPA's safe water hotline at 800-426-4791 for more information.
Read more about compilation of all the great parenting advice that help to raise child safe and healthy.
1. Does your child like to put things in his or her mouth?
2. Does your home have peeling paint?
3. Was your home built before 1978?
4. Does your child play in the dirt near your home?
5. Do you live near an industrial facility, especially anything related to treatment of iron ore or steel?
6. Do any neighboring families have instances of lead poisoning (if your child plays in their homes)?
7. Do you or anyone in your family work with lead (jewelry makers, stain glass, plumbers, x-ray, auto mechanics)?
8. Does your child go to a daycare facility built before 1978?
If you have any of the risk factors, which might indicate exposure to lead poisoning for your kids, here are some proactive steps you can take.
1. Test your child. The American Academy of Pediatric recommends testing kids at 12 and 24 months, but if you have some of these risk factors, you may want to test every year through age 6.
2. Don't do home renovations involving removing lead paint unless you've been trained to do so.
3. Have an expert check to assess lead exposure in your house. Go to epa.gov/lead for pros in your area. There has been controversy about the reliability of over-the-counter tests sold at drugstores and hardware stores.
4. If you work with lead, change your clothes and shower before you play with your kids. Wash your clothes separately.
5. Inventory your kids' toys to remove any that have been recalled for lead poisoning.
6. Remove your shoes before walking through your house, especially if you have babies crawling around on the floors who could be exposed to lead poisoning.
7. Run tap water for 30 seconds or use water filters. Remember that lead leeches more into hot water, so never use the hot water tap to fill bottles of formula. You can call the EPA's safe water hotline at 800-426-4791 for more information.
Read more about compilation of all the great parenting advice that help to raise child safe and healthy.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Ages to Start a Musical Instrument With a Child
Here's a bonding idea for you: learn to play a musical instrument along with your child.
I'm not saying it's a good idea, but it might work in your house. In our case, I put off beginning piano lessons until my daughter turned five, now a year ago. Apparently, five is the age when kids should start piano, unless they have exhibited Mozart-like tendencies to play Schubert by ear on the local baby grand. In a recent unofficial poll, 47% of people who play musical instruments started playing between the ages of four and ten.
The BBCsite has a good guide on ages to start playing different instruments based on the size of the instrument, and the lung or body strength required, in brief:
• Recorder - often recommended as a starter instrument, can be played as soon as child can get fingers over the holes
• Violin - could start at 4, but 6 is more realistic
• Wind and brass - not before second set of teeth are in
• Guitar - comes in smaller sizes and can be played as of age eight, depending on size and stretch of hands
• Singing - formal lessons not advised until teens, after voices are more developed
Ideally, in all of these cases, the child should be able to recognize numbers and know letters through G, for obvious reasons.
I found a teacher who bought into my idea of learning along with my daughter, or who at least humored me in my plan. At our first lesson, she met my daughter and me, let us plunk around on the keys, and ordered us beginner books. I did not get the one with zoo animals playing in a band, I got the more austere-looking AdultPiano Adventures. (Note: I'd recommend this book for beginners or older students getting back to the piano. It's not a 'piano for dummies' style primer, but it does teach the basics with arrangements of the type of classical and pop songs you'll likely recognize and enjoy playing).
On our second lesson, it was clear there was something wrong with my plan. My daughter banished me to the waiting area and conducted her part of the lesson in private. I was allowed five minutes at the end to show what I learned. This continued on for weeks on end, until we finally broke up our "lesson." I went on to take 45-minute bi-weekly lessons and she changed teachers for a more convenient, and private, at-school lesson. Which leads me to several things I found out about kids and learning music:
1. Wait until they are ready to learn. Unless your child appears to be a prodigy, and you're likely to see this right away, wait until at least age five to begin lessons. Some even recommend six or seven depending on the facility reading and counting.
2. At the beginning, remove any pressure to play and practice. You'll have plenty of time to spoil the love of music later when you force her or him to play four hours a day. For now, let your child play when he or she wants to. As time progresses, start with putting the child at the piano for five minutes per day and advancing from that as lessons start to take hold. Try to make music as fun as possible, and that means stopping your playing to let them in. If they want to play, let them at it.
3. Make sure your child really likes the teacher. If not, run, don't walk, to another instructor.
4. Create occasions for your child to play in front of people, with the proper warning. Our child, while not usually a performer, was relaxed playing for family when she knew and bought into the concert idea several months in advance.
5. Don't expect you'll be able to play with your child or help teach them, or you may be disappointed. I always let my daughter join me if she wants to play while I'm practicing, but I've failed miserably several times to show her how to play "her" music.
6. If possible, find easy one finger arrangements of songs your child likes. While a certain amount of instruction in the building blocks is key, there is nothing as motivating in music, to both adults and children, as playing a song that they know and love.
I'm not saying it's a good idea, but it might work in your house. In our case, I put off beginning piano lessons until my daughter turned five, now a year ago. Apparently, five is the age when kids should start piano, unless they have exhibited Mozart-like tendencies to play Schubert by ear on the local baby grand. In a recent unofficial poll, 47% of people who play musical instruments started playing between the ages of four and ten.
The BBCsite has a good guide on ages to start playing different instruments based on the size of the instrument, and the lung or body strength required, in brief:
• Recorder - often recommended as a starter instrument, can be played as soon as child can get fingers over the holes
• Violin - could start at 4, but 6 is more realistic
• Wind and brass - not before second set of teeth are in
• Guitar - comes in smaller sizes and can be played as of age eight, depending on size and stretch of hands
• Singing - formal lessons not advised until teens, after voices are more developed
Ideally, in all of these cases, the child should be able to recognize numbers and know letters through G, for obvious reasons.
I found a teacher who bought into my idea of learning along with my daughter, or who at least humored me in my plan. At our first lesson, she met my daughter and me, let us plunk around on the keys, and ordered us beginner books. I did not get the one with zoo animals playing in a band, I got the more austere-looking AdultPiano Adventures. (Note: I'd recommend this book for beginners or older students getting back to the piano. It's not a 'piano for dummies' style primer, but it does teach the basics with arrangements of the type of classical and pop songs you'll likely recognize and enjoy playing).
On our second lesson, it was clear there was something wrong with my plan. My daughter banished me to the waiting area and conducted her part of the lesson in private. I was allowed five minutes at the end to show what I learned. This continued on for weeks on end, until we finally broke up our "lesson." I went on to take 45-minute bi-weekly lessons and she changed teachers for a more convenient, and private, at-school lesson. Which leads me to several things I found out about kids and learning music:
1. Wait until they are ready to learn. Unless your child appears to be a prodigy, and you're likely to see this right away, wait until at least age five to begin lessons. Some even recommend six or seven depending on the facility reading and counting.
2. At the beginning, remove any pressure to play and practice. You'll have plenty of time to spoil the love of music later when you force her or him to play four hours a day. For now, let your child play when he or she wants to. As time progresses, start with putting the child at the piano for five minutes per day and advancing from that as lessons start to take hold. Try to make music as fun as possible, and that means stopping your playing to let them in. If they want to play, let them at it.
3. Make sure your child really likes the teacher. If not, run, don't walk, to another instructor.
4. Create occasions for your child to play in front of people, with the proper warning. Our child, while not usually a performer, was relaxed playing for family when she knew and bought into the concert idea several months in advance.
5. Don't expect you'll be able to play with your child or help teach them, or you may be disappointed. I always let my daughter join me if she wants to play while I'm practicing, but I've failed miserably several times to show her how to play "her" music.
6. If possible, find easy one finger arrangements of songs your child likes. While a certain amount of instruction in the building blocks is key, there is nothing as motivating in music, to both adults and children, as playing a song that they know and love.
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