Thursday, July 28, 2011

Should you track your kids?

It possible to keep track of almost anything nowadays with the invent of smartphones or computer - from your stocks to your team's score. And if you are thinking of keeping track of your child then many gadgets are available in market for it. You may be wondering whether it's okay to use tracking devices to ensure that your children are staying out of trouble. If this is the case, there are a few things for you to consider.

According to recent study conducted by Retrevo Gadgetology, 59 percent of parents think it's alright to track their child's location without his or her knowledge. Researchers found that 64 percent of moms would opt to track their kids, while 53 percent of dads think these methods are acceptable.

In addition to physical tracking applications even easy to understand programs will allow you to read your children's text messages and emails, as well as monitor who they are calling.

Although these methods will likely keep your children safe, they might also make the young ones feel alienated.Whether you choose to limit your children's privacy or not, it's suggested that you monitor their communications discreetly. Some level of trust should always be established within the parent-child relationship.

It's a girl? How to cope when your baby isn't a boy

Some dads do get disappointed if their new born bundle of joy is a female. If you too are in such kind of dilemma, don't worry - all of your hopes and dreams aren't shattered. In fact, there are many reasons to be proud of having a girl instead of a boy.

Many dads as well as mom pray for a boy as dads want someone to teach their athletic wisdom to and mom’s wants someone to take care of them. Moreover, fathers are more overprotective of daughters - whereas sons are sometimes easier to guide when it comes to growing up and dating. Boys are more notorious, the sense of responsibility comes in a daughter at quite an early age.

Most of the times daughters speak openly with their dads which helps to improve father and daughter bonding. That’s why there is the phrase "daddy's girl."

As father, it’s important that to understand gender of the child doesn’t affect the way you raise the child. So sit back and relax knowing that your little princess will likely mature in ways that you've never imagined as long as you're there for her. Just don't spoil her too much!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Poison-proofing tips that dads need to know

If you're the proud owner of a new bundle-of-joy, chances are you're doing your best trying to make his introduction to the world as risk-free as possible. One of the most important things that a father can do to ensure the safety of his child is to prepare his home for the inevitable adventures of this curious little explorer. While part of the process involves best practices, such as storing sharp objects in cabinets, child-proofing electrical outlets and even training a pet to play nice, poison-proofing is one step fathers simply cannot skimp on.

More than one million children each year are victims of accidental poisoning. The sad fact is that most of these occurrences could have been avoided with a little due diligence from parents. Because small children have a tendency to put things in their mouths, any poisonous substances must be kept locked away behind child-proof doors or in an area in which a small child cannot access.

While you're probably aware of some of the more traditional toxins in your home, such as detergents, drain-cleaners, pesticides and automobile fluids, other potential hazards may surprise you.

Cosmetic and personal care products such as mouthwash, nail polish and baby-oil, are not often thought of as poisons. Their placement by the bathroom sink is a daily pattern and is easily overlooked. However, to curious little hands, these items may be colorful and enticing, so make sure to store them in an out-of-reach area.

Prescription drugs should always be stored in a high medicine cabinet or lock-box. These substances can be dangerous to adults, so it follows that they are potentially fatal to small children. Over-the-counter drugs such as cough medicine and pain-killers should also be secured. These include ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin.

Certain varieties of house plant can also be dangerous, as they may contain naturally produced chemical toxins. Keep a close eye on flowers such as azalea, hyacinth and hydrangea. In the case of house plants, dumb cane and caladium can pose a threat.

Ultimately it is up to you as a father to read the labels on all of the products in your house to determine the potential dangers they may pose. However, with a little bit of time and effort, you can ensure that no toxins are within the reach of your little one.

Advice For Dads