Baby Sleep Tips

Getting a baby to adjust to a normal sleep schedule can be a challenge for new parents. Here are some tips so that both you and your baby can get a good night's rest.

1) Establish a routine - A kiss good night or stroking the baby before sleep can calm the child, or bathing and cleaning the child before bed time. Make sure to repeat these patterns. Once the baby becomes familiar with this routine, they will know that it is time to sleep. Also, make sure the baby sleeps in the same place and in the same conditions as much as possible.

2) Try lullaby music - Lullaby music can calm the child as can white noise CD's. The sound of a vacuum cleaner is also known to have a soothing effect.

3) Make sure that the room temperature is not too hot or cold and that the baby is in a location that is away from any noise or distractions that may cause the baby to awaken.

4) Shorten nap time during the day - If the baby sleeps too much during the day, then he or she may not be able to sleep as well at night. When napping, keep the lights on and try not to give the baby any cues that it is bedtime by avoiding the night routine. No need to wake the child from napping, but if conditions are brighter and a bit noisier, then the baby will probably wake up on its own.

5) Rocking - Rocking and massaging the baby can relax the child and this may be good as prelude to sleeping through the night.

6) Read a story - Read a story or spend some time with the baby before bed, instead of just dropping the baby off in the crib and leaving. This extra time will allow the baby to transition into sleep.

7) Feeding - Make sure the baby is getting good nutrition. If you must feed the baby in the middle of the night, make sure to keep the lights dim so as to not disturb the baby's sense of time.

8) Make sure that it is quiet at night and that there is activity during the day. Babies need to learn the difference between night and day.

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About the Author: Criss White is a professional web writer on baby and new mother topics for baby and pregnancy websites. For more related articles, go to Baby Lullaby (http://babylullaby.bravehost.com) and Baby shower information (http://www.legitimateopportunities.com/baby).

Source: www.isnare.com

How to Choose a Car Seat That Meets The Needs of Your Baby

There are many types of car seats available on the market today. In order to be able to make an informed decision it is best to check out car seat manufacturers. You can also check any consumer guide for information on recalls, seats that have been crash tested, the best type of restraint systems for your child. Before that even starts be aware of the fact that there are many types of car seats. The choice you make will be based on your prior research and your child's needs. A note of caution: before you purchase a car seat check the

Manufactures

recommendations and be sure the seat is compatible with your vehicle.

One type of car seat is the infant only car seat. This seat comes with a detachable base, comes with higher weight and height limits, harness slots that will help to change the seat from rear facing to front facing. The multiple slots can be adjusted to fit your baby. They also have handles that can be folded down while the child is in the car. They can be raised to make carrying your baby easier.

Convertible car seats are bigger and heavier and may not be appropriate for some newborns. The reclining position and ease of adjusting the harness are important assets. A convertible seat can be used rear facing for most newborns and front facing for older babies over twenty pounds. The American Pediatric Association recommends a child stay rear facing until s/he reaches the maximum weight and height listed by the manufacturer. The straps and are adjustable to a child's size, the seat should be moved to the proper position for the weight and height of your baby. The seat belt should be threaded through the seat belt path.

Forward facing seats cannot be used in the rear facing position. They are only for children over a year old and over twenty pounds. They can be used with either a lap only or lap/shoulder belt system.

Combination seats also cannot be used in the rear facing position and are also only for babies over a year and over twenty pounds. It has an internal harness for children whose weight is between forty and fifty pounds. It can convert to a belt position booster seat by removing the harness for larger children. They can be used with lap only or lap/shoulder belts.

Booster seats come in different types. Some come with shield boosters that are padded bars that lock into position much like the handlebars on carnival rides. There are booster seats that come with a high back to support your child as s/he rides in a car. Some booster car seats are built into vans and some cars. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to be sure the seat will accommodate your child's size. There are travel vests that attach to the seats with lap only belts.

Now that you know the types of car seats, there are things that must be considered in order to ensure the safety of your baby. Is the seat safe? How did it fare in crash testing? Is the restraint system easy to manipulate? If they are difficult to buckle your child in or remove him from the seat your child's safety could be compromised. In an accident, a sudden stop, or quick swerve will the seat hold your child? If the seat moves in any way in these situations your baby could be at risk. The car seat should attach snugly to the seat if properly installed. With seats that have multiple belt slots to accommodate your child be sure you use the right one. The belt should be at your child's shoulder level or just above.

Most newer car seats come with the LATCH (lower anchor and tethers for children) system. Installation is supposed to be easier but they are difficult to use and are not always safe. Parents complain that upon installing seats with this system there is too much slack, the seats have a tendency to move or slide out of position. In an emergency situation this could have seriously disastrous results. A company has created a tool called Mighty Tite that is used to pull in the slack and it has been safety tested and is recommended.

As previously stated check consumer guides and online sites for recalls. This is especially important if you have a used car seat. If you purchase your seat second-hand you need to inspect it thoroughly. Check that all belts and buckles are in good shape and working as recommended. Make sure the belts aren't frayed or the buckles cracked. Check the frame for any breaks or gaps that your little one could get fingers stuck in or that are sharp. If you find such things don't use the seat until you can get it repaired or replaced. If the seat comes with removable covers it is suggested that you remove them and wash them well. If it doesn't have cloth covering you might want to buy some. A vinyl seat, could in the summer, burn your little one's tender skin. In a desperate attempt to remedy this when my own child was an infant, I found a large towel and cut holes in it and place it on the seat so that anywhere my son's skin would meet the seat, it was protected at least with the towel. If you are really creative you could make your own.

Be practical in purchasing your car seat. If you have an infant buy a seat that will convert to a front facing seat as your child grows. Infant seats also come with a base that remains installed while you are able to remove a sleeping child from the car without disturbing him too much. Some such infant seats can also attach to a stroller frame. This multi-use seat is practical and will save all the bending and unbuckling and buckling of seat belts and then stroller belts. The internal harness keeps your child appropriately restrained.

Let's go over some important considerations in purchasing car seats. Keep in mind compatibility with your vehicle's specifications. Check for recalls and safety testing- how did the seat fare in these situations? Is it the proper seat for the size of your child? Can the seat be converted from a rear and front facing seat - it is more economical to buy a convertible seat. Is the installation easy or does the seat seem to move around in the belt system? There is a tool called Mighty Tite that can take up any slack and make the seat secure in its position, thus enhancing your baby's safety. Choose carefully and choose wisely, you are carrying very precious cargo.

About the Author
Declan Tobin is a successful freelance writer providing advice for parents and consumers on purchasing a variety of baby products which includes baby crib bedding, strollers, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

5 Tips For Choosing Organic Baby Skin Care

Are you looking for a more natural and organic baby skin care regimen? Do you know how to be sure the product you're buying is really organic?

If you're ready to move away from chemical-based baby products and replace them with more natural alternatives , here are some tips to help you started.

1. Read and comprehend the labels.

If you can't pronounce or understand the ingredients, you can probably find a more natural alternative. Avoid parabens, phthalates and other substances you are not familiar with.

Instead, lean toward food-based ingredients like olive oil, coconut palm, and vegetable glycerin.

2. Simplify your baby's skin care regimen the first six months.

Until your baby becomes mobile, he or she doesn't need a bath and shampoo every single day. Nor does he need fragrances, which often contain hormone disrupting chemicals called phthalates.

Unfortunately, you may not see phthalates on the label because conventional skin care manufacturers are not required to disclose the ingredients of fragrances.

3. Choose certified organic products over other organic offerings.

Many have been jaded by misuse of the term "organic" and mislead by terms such as "natural" or "hypo-allergenic." Organic baby skin care is more loosely regulated than food, so it is important to understand what the marketing terms mean.

Certified organic baby skin care will have a seal of approval from a regulated certifying body such as the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The products that bear this seal fall into two categories: (1) those made with 100% organic ingredients and (2) those made with 95-99% organic ingredients because the remainder of ingredients are not available organically.

Products that say "made with organic ingredients" have 70 - 94% organic ingredients and don't have the seal. Finally, if a product has only a few organic ingredients, the container will list just the names of those ingredients.

4. Always spot test skin care products for allergies before applying all over.

Even the most natural moisturizers and soaps can cause an allergic reaction in your baby. When trying something new, apply a small amount and monitor for 24 hours. If no bumps or swelling appears, you are probably good to go.

5. Avoid unnecessary chemicals in other aspects of your baby's care.

Skin care products are not all that can irritate your baby's skin. Conventional clothing, diapers and bedding can all contain pesticides and petrochemicals that cause breakouts, hormonal imbalance and other serious health conditions.

Whenever possible choose organic cotton or natural fibers such as hemp, bamboo or linen in these aspects of your baby's layette.

Organic baby skin care begins with knowing what you are putting on your baby's skin and getting rid of the excessive ingredients. No two babies are alike, so it's up to you to find the right product and regimen to pamper your baby's soft, delicate skin.

For more articles about the benefits of organic baby skin care and a list of skin care ingredients to avoid, visit Organic Baby Resource.

Erika Jones is a mom, web publisher and freelance writer. To get organic baby tips delivered to your inbox, subscribe to her monthly newsletter.

You may republish this article on your blog, website or e-zine by providing credit to the author with a live link to Organic Baby Resource.

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Four Ways to Serve Organic Baby Food

With it's many benefits, organic baby food is becoming more accessible to busy moms. Organic food is free from harmful additives and pesticides that can harm your baby. It provides added nutrition and reduces the risk of developing food allergies. Regardless of your lifestyle and cooking style, you can find an organic option to serve your baby.

Organic baby food is easy to find - just look in the refrigerated section of your favorite grocery store. HomeMade Baby, sells freshly pureed organic fruits and vegetables in stores nationwide. You can also check your local yellow pages to find companies that will deliver fresh baby food directly to your front door.

Purchasing frozen organic baby food is super convenient. It allows you to only thaw the amount of food you need in order to avoid waste. The freezing process is a natural way to preserve the food's nutrients. Companies such as Happy Baby and Plum Organics sell frozen baby food in grocery stores.

If you cannot find organic food in your grocer's freezer section, purchase jarred organic baby food directly from the shelves. Because this food is processed at a high heat, it can lose some of its beneficial nutrients. However, jarred organic baby food is still free from sugar, salt and other preservatives, making it a more nutritious choice than non-organic food. You can find Earth's Best meals, cereals and snacks in most grocery stores.

Especially adventurous moms may want to make baby food at home. To get started, you will need a blender or grinder, ice cube trays, plastic wrap, freezer bags, and a skillet or saucepan.

Here are six simple steps to make your own organic baby food:

1. Purchase organic fruits and vegetables.

2. Wash your supplies in hot, soapy water in order to sterilize them.

3. Place peeled, cored and sliced fruit or veggies into a skillet with just enough water to cover them.

4. Steam the pieces until they are tender and puree them in the blender. Add water, if needed.

5. Place the puree in ice cube trays, and cover it in plastic wrap keep it fresh.

6. Place the tray in a ziplock bag, seal it and place it in the freezer within 48 hours.

Voila! You've just made the healthiest food available for your baby!

When freezing organic baby food, make sure you write the date and the name of the food on the bag so you can identify its contents and throw out any food that has been frozen longer than three months.

For more facts about organic baby food visit Organic Baby Resource.

Erika Jones is a mom, web publisher and freelance writer. To get organic baby tips delivered to your inbox, subscribe to her monthly newsletter.

You may republish this article on your blog, website or e-zine by providing credit to the author and providing a live link to Organic Baby Resource.

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Weaning Your Child From the Bottle

Weaning a child from the bottle can be a traumatic time for mommy...oh yeah and the baby too! Many times the bottle has become so much more than a drink of milk or juice, it is their comfort zone. It's what puts them to sleep at nap time or bedtime and what comforts them when they are upset and crying. Imagine having what comforts you the most just snatched away from you one day. For some of us if we could not have that morning cup of coffee our world would come crumbling down around us. For me life without any melted cheese sandwiches would require me to obtain some extensive therapy! Bottles have been a constant in our toddlers life, something they can count on when everything in this big world is changing daily right before their eyes. What a wonderfully confusing time it must be for them. So when you think about it, it is easy to understand how the bottle could have become an attachment. Great, so now that we understand it, what are we going to do about it?

Well ladies, the good news about this is that most toddlers can be persuaded to give up the bottle if you offer something in it's place. This should be a gradual process, as for some children it can be very upsetting. Start by decreasing the number of bottles you offer a day. Take your toddler with you to the store to buy big boy/girl cups and let him choose ones with fun cartoon characters. Allow them to take ownership which will increase their desire to drink out of the cup. Begin by offering your toddler a cup a lunch time instead of the bottle. Lunch time can be a fun time of eating and sharing with your child. Talk about how happy you are to see your big girl/boy using the cup. Toddlers love praise and reinforcement when they have done something right. After a couple of days of offering the bottle at lunch, try offering it at dinner time too.

As you replace the bottle for each meal do remember to allow days in between. Each time you replace the bottle with a cup you should allow time for more hugging and cuddling. Your toddler is reaching a huge milestone and needs to continue to feel secure even though his comforter(the bottle) will now longer be there.

When you finally are down to the last bottle of the day begin to put less and less milk in the bottle so your toddler spends less time drinking. Replace this with extra hugging and if your toddler is still thirsty offer the cup.

Now I know you are saying " this is all fine and dandy, but it just may not go that smoothly" Definitely all toddlers are different and while this may work for many, it will not work for all. Use your mommy radar, Is it really time for your child to give up the bottle? If you are finding you child to be extremely disturbed by you taking away the bottle maybe it is not yet time. Talk with your pediatrician about the timing and about the health of your child's gums and teeth. Maybe you will want to put water in your child's bottle instead of milk as a lot of toddlers of really attached to the sucking"comfort sucking" and not what is actually in the bottle.
Try different things as each child may respond different but most of all be patient and replace the bottle with plenty of love!

Written by Yvonne Kimmons, co-owner of http://www.LittleHandsBoutique.com Your Upscale Resale for Little Ladies and Gents! For more fun articles and advice on toddler issues please visit http://www.LittleHandsBoutique.blogspot.com

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Is Organic Baby Food Worth the Higher Cost?

There are consumers who think organic products for babies are a safe and healthy way to avoid potential risks of exposure to pesticide residues in foods. This is probably one reason why the sales of organic baby food have been steadily increasing. Many consumers like the fact that organic baby foods do not normally have added fillers such as modified starches. Consumers seem to be willing to pay a premium for organic baby food even when there has been no national definition of organic foods. This lack of national standards and the sporadic certification of organic producers have raised several issues regarding the value of the organic label.

The 1990 Organic Food Production Act mandated USDA to establish national standards for producing and marketing organic agricultural products. Some organic foods are certified under State and private certification programs.

One company uses its own organically grown and processed foods in its product line. Their crops are produced without the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Post-harvests processing is minimal to help maintain the natural flavors. Synthetic fumigants, preservatives, and irradiation are not used in their manufacturing process. The company also states that the meat and dairy products used in their baby foods come from animals which have been given no growth hormones or antibiotics. Baby foods produced under these conditions would certainly appeal to consumers interested in providing what would seem a higher quality of baby food.

Where can you purchase organic baby food?

• It was at first found in health-food stores, but can also be found in supermarkets, local food stores and food cooperatives

You can also find organic food products for babies in the cereal and meat products sections. The baby foods are the strained variety, processed to a fine texture making it easier for infants to digest.

Organic baby foods will be more expensive. Some of the reasons why the price is higher might include:

• Consumers perceive organic baby food reduces potential health risk from exposure to pesticides residues or that it tastes better and has higher nutrition
• The higher cost may be due also to organic raw products costing more to produce
• There is an additional cost involved with the certification of organic foods

In one particular study, customers valued only three nutrients in strained baby food when making their purchase decision, they were:

• Iron
• Protein
• Fat

As to whether or not organic baby food is better for your baby is a decision you and your doctor should make. Many manufacturers of baby food have reduced added ingredients such as sugar and salt and others add no fillers. Modified starch fillers basically include the addition of processed sugars or starches to the food. The presence of these types of fillers is a significant reason why consumer's look for products without them.

Source: Harris J. Consumers pay a premium for organic baby foods.. (cover story). Food Review [serial online]. May 1997;20(2):13. Available from: Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, Ipswich, MA. Accessed July 31, 2008.

Written by: Connie Limon To find more information related to your baby's health, visit http://smalldogs2.com/BabyHealth To find a wide variety of reprint articles visit http://www.camelotarticles.com

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Baby Formula - What to Use?

After all my hours spent on doing research about what I should feed my baby, I came to this conclusion: There is no one answer. There are lots of decisions to be made when trying to decide how to feed: Do I breastfeed? Do I use formula? If I use formula, should it be milk based or a specialty type? How often do I feed? Etc, Etc. So basically, the goal of this article is just to get all the different types of feeding option out on the table so readers can make an informed decision.

First, many swear by this, and many say it's just a myth, but breastfeeding should probably be your first option. My wife and I were unable to devote the time necessary to breastfeeding, so we used formula. Breastfeeding is a very time intensive activity, and it will require a lot of patience by the mom, and by the rest of the family, the baby, the job, etc.

When it comes to formula, there are two types: Milk based and specialty based. We used milk based as our child did not have any adverse affects from the basic formula. The specialty brands include organic, soy, lactose-free, hypo-allergenic, low iron and preemie formulations. Luckily for us, and many other parents, baby formula has progressed a long way since it was first produced. Almost all new infant formulas contain DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and ARA (Arachidonic Acid), which are nutrients that are found in breast milk. You need to make sure that the formula has these two nutrients as they are vital for mental and visual development in your child. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the formula. You want to make sure you are feeding your baby the correct amount and not diluting the formula too much. Also, storing of the formula is crucial so please read the directions provided by the manufacturer.

If you have any further questions, please visit my website at http://www.cutebabyaccessories.com where we have more easy to read guides along with great products.

Mark Maloney is the creater and owner of http://www.cutebabyaccessories.com On his website there are many more easy to read articles and products for sale. They specialize in being a one stop shop for all your babies' needs.

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