The terrible twos – Even the most dignified parent has been left red-faced and wanting to be swallowed into the ground while their toddler is having a public meltdown. Tantrums at home can be just as frustrating, so here are a few easy ideas for stopping them or preventing them altogether:
Don’t Let Them Get Over Tired – Don’t let your toddler become too tired. Set a regular nap routine and try to stick to it, and make sure he goes to bed at a reasonable time and gets enough sleep during the night. Tiredness is often the first reason for a tantrum.
Keep Sugar Levels Stable – Don’t let your toddler’s blood sugar levels dip too low. This will make him irritable and tired, the tantrum will soon follow. Make sure he has plenty of small nutritious snacks throughout the day to provide him with a steady source of energy to avoid blood sugar dips.
Give Them Time – Allow enough time for activities like getting dressed, brushing their hair and getting in and out of the car. Your toddler will want to do a lot of these things on his own and rushing him is a sure way to start a tantrum. Give him a little extra time and let him try to be independent by allowing him to do certain things for himself.
Distractions – Many times a toddler’s screams and shouts can be stopped short by distracting them with something else. Offer to read them a book, color with them, or watch a video. They’ll soon forget what they were screaming about.
Put it Away – Is there a certain item that always causes your toddler to have a tantrum? A food that’s only for after dinner or an item he shouldn’t have. Then put it where he can’t see it. Out of sight, out of mind, is a great way of avoiding tantrums.
Don’t Give In – It may be tempting to give in to tantrums just to avoid a confrontation, but you’ll only encourage more similar behavior in the future. Don’t confuse your toddler by being inconsistent. Once he realizes he won’t get his way, he’ll stop playing the tantrum game.
Ignore It – This is easier said than done and of course it depends where your child is having his tantrum. If you’re in the middle of the supermarket you can’t just walk away or ignore your child especially if they’re grabbing or breaking things. In this instance it may be best to gently pick up your child and take him outside or to an area away from people and noise. Give him a few minutes to calm down and a big hug.
If your child is having a tantrum in a safe place like at home, then it’s best to walk away until he calms down. Make sure he can’t hurt himself or anything or anyone else and just walk away. Once he’s finished give him a hug and talk about what he’s feeling.
Give Him a Hug – Many times your child just needs to be held and needs you to help him control his emotions. If he’s in the middle of a tantrum try gently hugging him and just hold him. A lot of the times this will completely diffuse the tantrum. Be sensitive to his reactions and if you see your hug is only making him more upset then give him a little space instead or try a different approach.
My Daughter
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
Teething Tips
When your baby starts to teeth, it can be a frustrating time for you both. Along with teething comes drool rash, diarrhea, fussiness and biting.
Thankfully, there are some tips and tricks for teething babies that can help sooth your baby AND you.
Drool Rash From Teething
During teething time, many babies develop a drool rash due to excess saliva. When your baby drools, their sensitive skin can become red and bumpy, like a rash.
If baby develops a drool rash while they’re teething, keep a towel or cotton cloth under their bed sheet to soak up the drool. When they drool in their sleep, their sensitive faces rub against the wet sheet and causes a rash.
During the day, keep their faces dry by patting their face gently with a cloth to prevent further irritation. If a drool rash is bothering your baby, try using vaseline to keep their skin moist.
I’ve written a bit more about drool rash here, including a picture of my son when he had his first case of drool rash from teething.
Diarrhea caused by teething
One of the tell-tale signs of teething is diarrhea. Baby’s bum can become red and sore just before a tooth comes through. Make sure to change your baby as soon as they pass a loose stool to minimize diaper rash. This should hopefully only last a few days until the tooth breaks through the gums. If a fever accompanies diarrhea, contact your family physician.
Biting during teething
Usually, biting is a sign of teething. Don’t get upset with your baby if they bite you – instead, give them something else to gnaw on. Here are some ideas:
Popsicle – Some moms like to freeze juice so it provides comfort and nutrition at the same time.
Frozen bagel or banana – Always supervise to prevent your baby from choking on a large piece.
Chicken Leg Bone – Kids like chewing on a bone, just like a dog does. But make sure there aren’t any slivers of bone left on it.
Teething Biscuits – Teething biscuits can be a life saver, but don’t give your baby too many as they can cause tooth decay.
Cold bottle of water – The cool water is good for them and numbs their pain at the same time.
Cold spoon – Babies like the feeling of a cold spoon, but bend the handle so they can’t injure themselves.
Teething Ring – Teething rings are great for sore gums, especially if kept in the fridge. Try to find one that is textured and only contains water. Make sure their sharp little teeth can’t puncture it.
Washcloth – Keep some wet washcloths in the freezer in a baggie, then when your baby is teething, just take the washcloths out and let them chew on them for fast relief.
Teething Necklace - I wear necklaces all the time, and when my babies were both teething, they’d chew on my necklaces the entire time I was holding them.
Other remedies for teething babies
If the items listed above don’t help, try these solutions:
Rub your fingers along their sore gums if they let you. They might not be willing at first, but soon they’ll realize the counter pressure feels good.
Try to keep your baby entertained with new toys or a change of scenery for distraction.
There are non-toxic organic toys specifically for baby to chew on. My babies would slobber on every toy they could reach, so it’s a relief to know that there are safe things for them to stick in their mouths!
Thankfully, there are some tips and tricks for teething babies that can help sooth your baby AND you.
Drool Rash From Teething
During teething time, many babies develop a drool rash due to excess saliva. When your baby drools, their sensitive skin can become red and bumpy, like a rash.
If baby develops a drool rash while they’re teething, keep a towel or cotton cloth under their bed sheet to soak up the drool. When they drool in their sleep, their sensitive faces rub against the wet sheet and causes a rash.
During the day, keep their faces dry by patting their face gently with a cloth to prevent further irritation. If a drool rash is bothering your baby, try using vaseline to keep their skin moist.
I’ve written a bit more about drool rash here, including a picture of my son when he had his first case of drool rash from teething.
Diarrhea caused by teething
One of the tell-tale signs of teething is diarrhea. Baby’s bum can become red and sore just before a tooth comes through. Make sure to change your baby as soon as they pass a loose stool to minimize diaper rash. This should hopefully only last a few days until the tooth breaks through the gums. If a fever accompanies diarrhea, contact your family physician.
Biting during teething
Usually, biting is a sign of teething. Don’t get upset with your baby if they bite you – instead, give them something else to gnaw on. Here are some ideas:
Popsicle – Some moms like to freeze juice so it provides comfort and nutrition at the same time.
Frozen bagel or banana – Always supervise to prevent your baby from choking on a large piece.
Chicken Leg Bone – Kids like chewing on a bone, just like a dog does. But make sure there aren’t any slivers of bone left on it.
Teething Biscuits – Teething biscuits can be a life saver, but don’t give your baby too many as they can cause tooth decay.
Cold bottle of water – The cool water is good for them and numbs their pain at the same time.
Cold spoon – Babies like the feeling of a cold spoon, but bend the handle so they can’t injure themselves.
Teething Ring – Teething rings are great for sore gums, especially if kept in the fridge. Try to find one that is textured and only contains water. Make sure their sharp little teeth can’t puncture it.
Washcloth – Keep some wet washcloths in the freezer in a baggie, then when your baby is teething, just take the washcloths out and let them chew on them for fast relief.
Teething Necklace - I wear necklaces all the time, and when my babies were both teething, they’d chew on my necklaces the entire time I was holding them.
Other remedies for teething babies
If the items listed above don’t help, try these solutions:
Rub your fingers along their sore gums if they let you. They might not be willing at first, but soon they’ll realize the counter pressure feels good.
Try to keep your baby entertained with new toys or a change of scenery for distraction.
There are non-toxic organic toys specifically for baby to chew on. My babies would slobber on every toy they could reach, so it’s a relief to know that there are safe things for them to stick in their mouths!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
What Moms should eat while breastfeeding a newborn infant or baby
After having your baby, you may want to try to get your figure back as fast as possible, and breastfeeding is one way to do that. Mothers who are nursing use up more calories—about 500 calories a day more—than mothers who aren't breast feeding, and some new mothers are delighted to find that they lose the post-baby weight more quickly and with less effort than they had ever imagined.
But it's important to realize that you could be depriving your child if you start a stringent diet while breastfeeding. Diets like the Atkins diet or the South beach diet recommend that women who are pregnant or nursing skip the strict, no-carb phases of the diets and move right to the maintenance phases—the ones that give you more carbohydrates. Fad or one-item diets like the cabbage soup diet aren't healthy for you under any circumstances, and particularly when your body is dealing with the hormonal, metabolic and caloric requirements of pregnancy or post-pregnancy.
The better your nutrition, the better you'll provide your infant with healthy milk, so avoid highly prepared foods full of additives, food colors and other weird, non-food substances.
If you're concerned about your weight and want to get your pre-baby jeans back on, skip the stringent dieting and turn instead to exercise. With your body burning more calories to start with, you'll get more bang for your metabolic buck by starting a schedule of walking, strength training and stretching.
Now, unless you're one of the few people who need a high calorie diet to maintain a normal weight, you don't need to eat more food when nursing; just bear in mind that you're burning up the equivalent of a pound every week simply by breastfeeding your child. There might not ever be a better time for eating extra chocolate!
But it's important to realize that you could be depriving your child if you start a stringent diet while breastfeeding. Diets like the Atkins diet or the South beach diet recommend that women who are pregnant or nursing skip the strict, no-carb phases of the diets and move right to the maintenance phases—the ones that give you more carbohydrates. Fad or one-item diets like the cabbage soup diet aren't healthy for you under any circumstances, and particularly when your body is dealing with the hormonal, metabolic and caloric requirements of pregnancy or post-pregnancy.
The better your nutrition, the better you'll provide your infant with healthy milk, so avoid highly prepared foods full of additives, food colors and other weird, non-food substances.
If you're concerned about your weight and want to get your pre-baby jeans back on, skip the stringent dieting and turn instead to exercise. With your body burning more calories to start with, you'll get more bang for your metabolic buck by starting a schedule of walking, strength training and stretching.
Now, unless you're one of the few people who need a high calorie diet to maintain a normal weight, you don't need to eat more food when nursing; just bear in mind that you're burning up the equivalent of a pound every week simply by breastfeeding your child. There might not ever be a better time for eating extra chocolate!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
How to Calm a Fussy Baby
As cute and loveable as they are, babies can be extremely difficult to deal with when they’re fussy, especially if you’re by yourself and there is nobody around to help you.
The first thing you should know are some reasons why babies cry. If you can identify the source of your baby’s discomfort, then you’ll be more able to come up with a solution to calm them down.
Why do babies cry?
They are too warm or too cold
They’re hungry
They have a dirty diaper
They’re tired or restless
They have allergies
They have an illness (cough, cold, flu, etc.)
They want comfort from being held or pacifying
Breastfed babies can have a reaction to mom eating certain foods
Here are some suggestions you can try to help calm your fussy baby.
Music – Play a calming lullaby cd for your baby.
Wind Chimes – Hang some wind chimes in your house and let your baby play with them.
Infant Massage – This method is becoming more and more popular. Massaging your baby is proven to help calm him and create a new bonding experience.
Fart – No, not you! Get your baby to pass gas. A common cause of fussiness is a gassy tummy. Try bending their legs to help ease their stomach pains.
White Noise – A fan or static on a radio can create a soothing sound for babies because it mimics the sounds of the womb.
Nursing – If you breastfeed your baby, this can be one of the best ways of calming her down.
Hold your baby – Despite what many people say, you won’t spoil your baby by holding him. By comforting him when he needs you, you are building trust.
Get some air – If your baby is a little older, he may enjoy going outside for a walk in the stroller. Many interesting things are waiting to be seen outdoors.
Put on a video – Baby Einstein is great for bored babies. They love the music and colors. This is a great opportunity for you to sit with your baby and help them learn by pointing out objects and naming them as they see them.
Swaddle – Most newborns like to be swaddled because it makes them feel like they are back in your tummy.
Dance – Turn on some tunes and dance with your baby. This can also be a great bonding experience.
Sleep – Lay down with your baby and see if they fall asleep. They may just want to rest but want to stay close to you.
Mirror – Sit your baby in front of an unbreakable mirror. Babies love to see their own reflection.
Time out – Take your baby to a quiet place. Their fussiness could be caused by overstimulation. They may just need some time to settle down.
Swing – Buy a baby swing or sit in your own garden swing. The rocking motion mimics the motion of being inside the womb and is great for calming baby.
Drive - Many parents resort to taking their baby for a car ride. Be sure not to use this method too much as your baby may start to depend on it for going to sleep.
Your voice – Try holding your baby to your chest and talk to her or someone else. The sound of your calm voice can be soothing to your fussy baby.
If all else fails, gently put your baby in the crib and close the door. Go to a quiet room and take a few deep breaths. If you’re alone, ask a neighbor or a close family member or friend to come over and help you out.
The first thing you should know are some reasons why babies cry. If you can identify the source of your baby’s discomfort, then you’ll be more able to come up with a solution to calm them down.
Why do babies cry?
They are too warm or too cold
They’re hungry
They have a dirty diaper
They’re tired or restless
They have allergies
They have an illness (cough, cold, flu, etc.)
They want comfort from being held or pacifying
Breastfed babies can have a reaction to mom eating certain foods
Here are some suggestions you can try to help calm your fussy baby.
Music – Play a calming lullaby cd for your baby.
Wind Chimes – Hang some wind chimes in your house and let your baby play with them.
Infant Massage – This method is becoming more and more popular. Massaging your baby is proven to help calm him and create a new bonding experience.
Fart – No, not you! Get your baby to pass gas. A common cause of fussiness is a gassy tummy. Try bending their legs to help ease their stomach pains.
White Noise – A fan or static on a radio can create a soothing sound for babies because it mimics the sounds of the womb.
Nursing – If you breastfeed your baby, this can be one of the best ways of calming her down.
Hold your baby – Despite what many people say, you won’t spoil your baby by holding him. By comforting him when he needs you, you are building trust.
Get some air – If your baby is a little older, he may enjoy going outside for a walk in the stroller. Many interesting things are waiting to be seen outdoors.
Put on a video – Baby Einstein is great for bored babies. They love the music and colors. This is a great opportunity for you to sit with your baby and help them learn by pointing out objects and naming them as they see them.
Swaddle – Most newborns like to be swaddled because it makes them feel like they are back in your tummy.
Dance – Turn on some tunes and dance with your baby. This can also be a great bonding experience.
Sleep – Lay down with your baby and see if they fall asleep. They may just want to rest but want to stay close to you.
Mirror – Sit your baby in front of an unbreakable mirror. Babies love to see their own reflection.
Time out – Take your baby to a quiet place. Their fussiness could be caused by overstimulation. They may just need some time to settle down.
Swing – Buy a baby swing or sit in your own garden swing. The rocking motion mimics the motion of being inside the womb and is great for calming baby.
Drive - Many parents resort to taking their baby for a car ride. Be sure not to use this method too much as your baby may start to depend on it for going to sleep.
Your voice – Try holding your baby to your chest and talk to her or someone else. The sound of your calm voice can be soothing to your fussy baby.
If all else fails, gently put your baby in the crib and close the door. Go to a quiet room and take a few deep breaths. If you’re alone, ask a neighbor or a close family member or friend to come over and help you out.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Fit 'n Right
I just took fit ‘n right juice from Delmonte right now- just a free juice drink since one agent from Delmonte drop by and introduced fit ‘n right juice drink with many flavors and so he gave me one for me to try . I really don’t know if this really makes me slim. But he really concluded that the content of L-carnitine and B vitamins makes me slim. Well, it’s good to try a product than nothing at all.
It taste good especially the flavor that I choose-it’s four seasons juice drink.
Well, it’s my big wish that my body fats will remove esp. in the tummy portion. But I guess, exercise is the best option for me to make slim and healthier.
Being busy with my scheds and roaming around the city more often is really good for me since it makes my body move fast and away from back pain and arthritis illness.
For one month of doing this thing, I don’t feel any back pain maybe my blood circulation is quite normal and one way of maintaining that factor is by constant WALKING!
It taste good especially the flavor that I choose-it’s four seasons juice drink.
Well, it’s my big wish that my body fats will remove esp. in the tummy portion. But I guess, exercise is the best option for me to make slim and healthier.
Being busy with my scheds and roaming around the city more often is really good for me since it makes my body move fast and away from back pain and arthritis illness.
For one month of doing this thing, I don’t feel any back pain maybe my blood circulation is quite normal and one way of maintaining that factor is by constant WALKING!
Tactless
I am tactless sometimes and I knew it’s not good but it just happen rashly.When I tried to release to a person and I mean it, I relieved my inner feelings quickly but on the latter I felt sorry for it coz I hurt someone’s feelings. I don’t know why I am like this. I make control myself not to hurt others interest but it just happen.I really felt sorry for it.I am Sorry….so sorry…
Now I realized that it’s not good and trying to change that traits. It’s not easy to change it especially I am really like that but for the sake that I don’t wanna hurt other’s feeling, I will restrained from doing that nasty manner again.
I’m really sorry my friend!
Now I realized that it’s not good and trying to change that traits. It’s not easy to change it especially I am really like that but for the sake that I don’t wanna hurt other’s feeling, I will restrained from doing that nasty manner again.
I’m really sorry my friend!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Real Happiness
Real hapiness comes from within. It shows on your face and one fruit of this is by doing good things to others. What is in your heart will reflect on your outward beauty and it will shine to anybody because being happy can’t be denied. Yes it is…you can send thousand smiles to anybody around you.
True essence of happiness comes with your partner in life . What your partner contributes to you can be also a great blessings from you. If your partner will annoy and make not good to you, you will also be affected and can cause you pain inside your heart and that makes you sad and sometimes makes you dismayed that people around you can witness also.. coz it shows. That’s why, it depends on your partner.
Being complete by having simple things in life like having a cheerful daughter, friends and close buddies around you, families who are supportive on whatever endeavor you took and all the good things from God makes you happy.
Yes, I am very much happy and that’s the real thing…it shows from my face and I can’t hide it coz that’s the truth and the truth shall set me free. No one can buy real happiness. People surrounds me and make me smile really makes my day complete and colors my day!
Don’t pretend to be happy and act like one coz it will really shows outwardly.
True essence of happiness comes with your partner in life . What your partner contributes to you can be also a great blessings from you. If your partner will annoy and make not good to you, you will also be affected and can cause you pain inside your heart and that makes you sad and sometimes makes you dismayed that people around you can witness also.. coz it shows. That’s why, it depends on your partner.
Being complete by having simple things in life like having a cheerful daughter, friends and close buddies around you, families who are supportive on whatever endeavor you took and all the good things from God makes you happy.
Yes, I am very much happy and that’s the real thing…it shows from my face and I can’t hide it coz that’s the truth and the truth shall set me free. No one can buy real happiness. People surrounds me and make me smile really makes my day complete and colors my day!
Don’t pretend to be happy and act like one coz it will really shows outwardly.
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