By: Conni Limon
You have a new baby, oh what wonder and joy this little guy or gal is, however, you have not had a good night’s sleep since being home with this wonderful little creature. Don’t give up. You can help your new baby sleep all night, every night. And remember, you are certainly not alone. Sleepless nights are something common for most new parents.
Newborn babies often sleep 16 or more hours per day. Their sleep time, however, is often done in stretches of just one to two hours at a time. As your baby’s nervous system matures a more consistent sleep schedule emerges and he or she can go longer between feedings.
By the time your new baby reaches three months of age he or she will probably be sleeping for as long as five hours during the night. At six months of age, nighttime stretches of nine to 12 hours are most likely.
Look over the following tips to help your baby become a good sleeper:
• Encourage activity during the day: During the waking hours with your baby keep him or her busy by talking, singing and playing. Provide your baby with lots of light. This type of stimulation during the day can help promote better sleep at night.
• Monitor your baby’s naps: Allow your baby regular naps during the day and not large chunks of time that may cause your baby to stay wide awake at night.
• Follow a consistent bedtime routine: If you bath, cuddle, sing or read to your baby just before bedtime he or she will soon associate these activities with sleep.
• Put your baby to bed drowsy but awake: This technique helps your baby associate bed with the process of falling asleep. Place your baby to sleep on his or her back. Clear the crib or bassinet of blankets and other soft items.
• Give your baby time to settle down: If your baby fusses when you first put him to bed, allow him or her to find a comfortable position for falling asleep. If the crying does not stop within a reasonable amount of time, try speaking calmly to your baby and stroke his or her back to provide reassurance of your presence.
• Consider using a pacifier: If your baby has trouble settling down, try using a pacifier at naptime and bedtime to help reduce his anxiety. One problem of using a pacifier might be if he or she loses during the middle of the night and cries for its replacement. Guess who has to get up in the middle of the night to find the pacifier for baby?
• Expect frequent stirring at night: Don’t be alarmed if you hear your baby squirming and wriggle as they sleep. This is quite normal. Some babies can be noisy. All these things may simply be a sign of settling down. Unless you suspect your baby is hungry or uncomfortable (needing a diaper change or whatever), it is OK to wait a few minutes to see if he or she finally settles down. If not, then better check on baby.
• Keep nighttime care low-key: When you feed your baby or care for he or she during the night, use dim lights, a soft voice and very calm movements. This will teach your baby that it is time to sleep and nothing else.
Some babies sleep throughout the night the first night home. I know my baby slept through the night straight from the beginning of our nights at home. She was such a good baby I would always say.
However, not all babies are alike; respect your baby’s preferences. Take time to understand your baby’s schedule and ways of communicating. They will eventually settle down and sleep the whole night through. If your baby is still fussy at nighttime by age 6 months, ask your baby’s doctor for instruction and suggestions.
The goal here is for everyone to get a good night’s sleep. It is not a measure of your parental skill or a sign of a good or bad baby. I just always thought my baby was the absolute best at everything, and sleeping throughout the night was just one more reason I thought she was “perfect.” She has paid me back though as an adult, and what I got to say about her now is not the same…..At times I ask myself is this the same person I use to know as a baby, toddler and child?
Newborn Baby’s First Nights At Home: Tips To Help Your Baby Learn To Sleep Throughout The Night
How to choose baby strollers
One of the more important accessories for a parent is a baby stroller. With the many choices of strollers available in the stores today, it proves to be difficult to choose the right baby stroller for your baby...
It has to be basically safe and comfortable for you and the baby and easy to open, close, maneuver and store.
There are many types of baby strollers found today like the carriage stroller which is a great first stroller and the umbrella stroller which is easy to fold and thus convenient as a secondary stroller to be used for jaunts and trips. The standard stroller is usually the primary baby stroller that comes with many features like storage basket and bumper tray.
Lightweight strollers are also great for traveling purposes but are generally high priced than its typical counterparts. The car seat/stroller combo is a great baby stroller to be used for those using the car regularly. You can go jogging taking your baby with you in the jogging stroller while tandem and side-by-side strollers are best for those having children close in age, twins or triplets. In these types of strollers, the seats are fixed next to each other, on a large, single frame.
When choosing the right baby stroller, make sure that it is sturdy, and is of quality construction. It should have all terrain wheels so that it can be used on all surfaces. There should be some safety features in the baby stroller and be comparatively easy to use by all parents. Make sure the stroller can fold and unfold easily and is rather maneuverable.
It is better to choose baby strollers that are easy to clean with removable and machine washable seat covers. Choose baby strollers that accommodate the baby as it grows and those that have storage baskets that are generously sized.
It has to be basically safe and comfortable for you and the baby and easy to open, close, maneuver and store.
There are many types of baby strollers found today like the carriage stroller which is a great first stroller and the umbrella stroller which is easy to fold and thus convenient as a secondary stroller to be used for jaunts and trips. The standard stroller is usually the primary baby stroller that comes with many features like storage basket and bumper tray.
Lightweight strollers are also great for traveling purposes but are generally high priced than its typical counterparts. The car seat/stroller combo is a great baby stroller to be used for those using the car regularly. You can go jogging taking your baby with you in the jogging stroller while tandem and side-by-side strollers are best for those having children close in age, twins or triplets. In these types of strollers, the seats are fixed next to each other, on a large, single frame.
When choosing the right baby stroller, make sure that it is sturdy, and is of quality construction. It should have all terrain wheels so that it can be used on all surfaces. There should be some safety features in the baby stroller and be comparatively easy to use by all parents. Make sure the stroller can fold and unfold easily and is rather maneuverable.
It is better to choose baby strollers that are easy to clean with removable and machine washable seat covers. Choose baby strollers that accommodate the baby as it grows and those that have storage baskets that are generously sized.
Do You Know What Is Best For Your Baby?
Naturally when you have a new born baby, you want to do your best to look after them. When it comes to cleaning them, many parents use loads of products thinking that they are best for the baby.
However, the fact is, it is always best to use fewer products during the first year, and it is important to especially avoid products in the first few weeks of life. This allows the skin to mature naturally with out being messed around with.
Newborn Skin Care
A newborn baby is fragile, and so is its skin. They are at risk from all of the chemicals which are in shop bought products, and that is why it is essential to give the baby a good head start by not using these products at the beginning. If you simply use just water for the first month or so, you will find that it is more than sufficient and it is a lot better for baby skin
There are other ways to care for baby skin which include applying certain basic methods. An example is to always wash your hands thoroughly before carrying out any baby care. Dirty hands will pass dirt onto the baby and can cause irritation.
Baby baths need to contain just plain water, and you should wash them using cotton wool. The delicate skin will be protected against germs, chemicals and water loss, even if you do only use plain water. When caring for the hair, shampoo is not needed, but you can use a baby comb to rid the scalp of any debris. You should not wash around the eye area and if you notice any sticky patches around the eyes, nose or ears, always consult a doctor and do not attempt to clear it with cotton buds.
If you baby is premature, you should know that the skin will be even more delicate, and therefore it will take longer to mature. Also, if the baby is overdue, the skin might be dry and cracked which is generally to be expected. You should not apply creams and lotions to the area as it can cause more damage. It is just better to bathe with plain water for the first month.
The area surrounding the baby cord needs to be kept clean and dry, so to do this it really needs to be left alone. It will generally heal on its own. You may notice that a few weeks after birth, your baby may experience some minor skin conditions which usually disappear quite quickly. The reason this happens is because the baby is retaining some of your hormones. A few skin conditions that a baby can get which are easily managed include:
Newborn acne. Babies sometimes develop a harmless case of acne on their face, and this is caused because of the hormones being passed from the mother to the baby.
A heat rash often occurs because the sweat glands are still developing and often become blocked, and because of this red bumps can appear all over the body.
Nappy rash. It does not matter how well you change the nappy and how good you are with cleanliness, nappy rash will probably still rear its ugly head at some stage. It is generally caused due to the ammonia which is in the urine. There are over the counter creams which you can apply that can help to relieve mild to moderate cases. Another effective method is to try petroleum jelly which often helps by forming a barrier on the skin.
Impetigo: This is very contagious and you will usually notice either a yellow sore or it could occur as lots of sores all over the body, but mainly they appear around the mouth, nose and nappy area.
Hives: If there is a rash characterized by loads of red blotches that have a light colored center, this may well be hives. The most common reason for hives in babies is down to a virus.
If your baby has any of the above conditions, see your doctor immediately. They will be able to help you treat them as soon as possible.
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
However, the fact is, it is always best to use fewer products during the first year, and it is important to especially avoid products in the first few weeks of life. This allows the skin to mature naturally with out being messed around with.
Newborn Skin Care
A newborn baby is fragile, and so is its skin. They are at risk from all of the chemicals which are in shop bought products, and that is why it is essential to give the baby a good head start by not using these products at the beginning. If you simply use just water for the first month or so, you will find that it is more than sufficient and it is a lot better for baby skin
There are other ways to care for baby skin which include applying certain basic methods. An example is to always wash your hands thoroughly before carrying out any baby care. Dirty hands will pass dirt onto the baby and can cause irritation.
Baby baths need to contain just plain water, and you should wash them using cotton wool. The delicate skin will be protected against germs, chemicals and water loss, even if you do only use plain water. When caring for the hair, shampoo is not needed, but you can use a baby comb to rid the scalp of any debris. You should not wash around the eye area and if you notice any sticky patches around the eyes, nose or ears, always consult a doctor and do not attempt to clear it with cotton buds.
If you baby is premature, you should know that the skin will be even more delicate, and therefore it will take longer to mature. Also, if the baby is overdue, the skin might be dry and cracked which is generally to be expected. You should not apply creams and lotions to the area as it can cause more damage. It is just better to bathe with plain water for the first month.
The area surrounding the baby cord needs to be kept clean and dry, so to do this it really needs to be left alone. It will generally heal on its own. You may notice that a few weeks after birth, your baby may experience some minor skin conditions which usually disappear quite quickly. The reason this happens is because the baby is retaining some of your hormones. A few skin conditions that a baby can get which are easily managed include:
Newborn acne. Babies sometimes develop a harmless case of acne on their face, and this is caused because of the hormones being passed from the mother to the baby.
A heat rash often occurs because the sweat glands are still developing and often become blocked, and because of this red bumps can appear all over the body.
Nappy rash. It does not matter how well you change the nappy and how good you are with cleanliness, nappy rash will probably still rear its ugly head at some stage. It is generally caused due to the ammonia which is in the urine. There are over the counter creams which you can apply that can help to relieve mild to moderate cases. Another effective method is to try petroleum jelly which often helps by forming a barrier on the skin.
Impetigo: This is very contagious and you will usually notice either a yellow sore or it could occur as lots of sores all over the body, but mainly they appear around the mouth, nose and nappy area.
Hives: If there is a rash characterized by loads of red blotches that have a light colored center, this may well be hives. The most common reason for hives in babies is down to a virus.
If your baby has any of the above conditions, see your doctor immediately. They will be able to help you treat them as soon as possible.
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
When to Start Buying Baby Clothing and Accessories
There are many things that you will need to prepare for when you are expecting a new member of the family. It is not only the sex of your baby that will determine what you may need but what theme do you wish for your baby. If it is going to be a boy then you may want to design his nursery to reflect that, of course, if it is going to be girl then you would wish to make an environment that reflects that too. If on the other hand the new parents do not wish to know the sex of their new baby then neutral colors will do.
Whatever the case may be boy, girl, unknown, one thing is for sure, the nursey must be a place where mum and dad and the new member to your home feels loved and welcomed. So saying this it is ideal to stay on top of the preparations.
You may want to shop for baby clothing and accessories well in advance. Preferably, you should start shopping for baby clothing and accessories about two months before you expect the baby to arrive. New parents should keep in mind that they are never alone in making preparations for this wonderful event, there are and will be, family members; Aunts,Uncles and the Grandparents who will also be making arrangements for the new arrival. So when shopping and arranging what you would like for your baby remember to include those loved ones dearest to you so as they to can provide necessary clothes and accessories and the most important ingredient, lots of love.. Remember that two months is ideal because it’s not too soon and not very last-minute.
If you are the expectant mother, you may want see to it that everything is in place a couple of months before you give birth. Many new parents tend to gather most of their needs for the baby as they go through the pregancy. Nine months to an expectant mother seems to go along rather slowly especially more so towards the latter months, this is to be expected as the mother to be gets larger as her baby grows and she can become more easily tired therefore if most of your shopping can done in the early stages of your third trimester then there are only the incidentals to shop for towards the heavier months. Preparation for the new arrival is vital as time can fly and it is never good to be caught off guard.
Another reason for preparing earlier is the avoidance of Stress. Stress is of no advantage to either the mum to be or her baby so to avoid this prepare early and then enjoy this wonderful miracle that is about to happen.Even if this is your second, third, fourth or more baby it is unique every time, just as special and truly a miracle.
Getting the Right Baby Clothing and Accessories
Although there are some women who would not want the ultrasound to determine the gender of their baby, there are many women who would like to have one for practical purposes. Most women have ultrasounds to determine the health and position of the baby in the womb and to assure not only the parents-to-be that all is okay but the doctors and nurses usually like to know these things as well. So, with that in mind, to choose the right accessories it may well be desirable to know the gender of your baby.
Remember when choosing your babies accessories that your baby will grow and in time you will have a toddler then a child who will also be needing a room etc. So therefore, it can be advisable to choose with that in mind then your baby can grow with your theme thereby making your life much more enjoyable and easy. Of course if this is your second or third or more baby then you already have the ideas and know what works and what does not. When choosing any baby equipment, clothing or accessories, the first priority is always safety; then function, then design and finally color and fabric if required. You have nine months to just on ten months to plan so shop around and most of all enjoy the experience. A sun hat if it’s very hot and sunny.
Whatever the case may be boy, girl, unknown, one thing is for sure, the nursey must be a place where mum and dad and the new member to your home feels loved and welcomed. So saying this it is ideal to stay on top of the preparations.
You may want to shop for baby clothing and accessories well in advance. Preferably, you should start shopping for baby clothing and accessories about two months before you expect the baby to arrive. New parents should keep in mind that they are never alone in making preparations for this wonderful event, there are and will be, family members; Aunts,Uncles and the Grandparents who will also be making arrangements for the new arrival. So when shopping and arranging what you would like for your baby remember to include those loved ones dearest to you so as they to can provide necessary clothes and accessories and the most important ingredient, lots of love.. Remember that two months is ideal because it’s not too soon and not very last-minute.
If you are the expectant mother, you may want see to it that everything is in place a couple of months before you give birth. Many new parents tend to gather most of their needs for the baby as they go through the pregancy. Nine months to an expectant mother seems to go along rather slowly especially more so towards the latter months, this is to be expected as the mother to be gets larger as her baby grows and she can become more easily tired therefore if most of your shopping can done in the early stages of your third trimester then there are only the incidentals to shop for towards the heavier months. Preparation for the new arrival is vital as time can fly and it is never good to be caught off guard.
Another reason for preparing earlier is the avoidance of Stress. Stress is of no advantage to either the mum to be or her baby so to avoid this prepare early and then enjoy this wonderful miracle that is about to happen.Even if this is your second, third, fourth or more baby it is unique every time, just as special and truly a miracle.
Getting the Right Baby Clothing and Accessories
Although there are some women who would not want the ultrasound to determine the gender of their baby, there are many women who would like to have one for practical purposes. Most women have ultrasounds to determine the health and position of the baby in the womb and to assure not only the parents-to-be that all is okay but the doctors and nurses usually like to know these things as well. So, with that in mind, to choose the right accessories it may well be desirable to know the gender of your baby.
Remember when choosing your babies accessories that your baby will grow and in time you will have a toddler then a child who will also be needing a room etc. So therefore, it can be advisable to choose with that in mind then your baby can grow with your theme thereby making your life much more enjoyable and easy. Of course if this is your second or third or more baby then you already have the ideas and know what works and what does not. When choosing any baby equipment, clothing or accessories, the first priority is always safety; then function, then design and finally color and fabric if required. You have nine months to just on ten months to plan so shop around and most of all enjoy the experience. A sun hat if it’s very hot and sunny.
Oh Baby! Choosing the Right Baby Name
Naming a baby is no easy task. However, the following tips will help you give your baby his or her very first gift.
1. Religion: For some parents, religion plays a major role in choosing a baby name. Roman Catholics traditionally choose saints' names. Jews traditionally choose Old Testament names. Names of deceased relatives are often chosen. Protestants often choose both Old and New Testament names.
Interesting Fact! : The majority of the people in the Western hemisphere have names from the Bible. The New Testament is a more popular source of names than the Old Testament.
2. Number of Names. You have many options when it comes to the number of names you choose for your baby. It is very common for a baby to be given three names, however, this is not mandatory. You may choose a first and last name; a first and last name and only a middle initial; initials for both first and middle names; or several middle names. Keep in mind, though, that several middle names will cause space problems for your child any time he or she fills out a form.
3. Sounds. Names are easy or hard to say depending upon the combination of letters used. A name such as Harry Berry invites potential teasing. Try this to create a nice effect: choose a first name that has the same amount of syllables as the last name. Whoopi Goldberg is a good example.
Interesting Fact! : Whoopi Goldberg's original name is Caryn Johnson.
4. Pronunciation. Nobody likes to have their name mis-pronounced. This is an important factor to keep in mind with unique names.
5. Popularity. Choosing a popular name increases the likelihood that there will be other children in your child's school with the same name. This may make him or her not feel as unique. However, a child with a popular name may be perceived better by peers than a child with a unique name.
6. Stereotypes. Many names create a positive or negative image. A name is often a person's first introduction to others. Therefore, you must make careful considerations when choosing a name to fit your new baby.
7. Initials. Initials of a person's name often spell words. If you choose to take this route, be sure that it will be a word you son or daughter will be happy with.
8. Meanings. Almost every name has a meaning. However, most people don't know the meaning of their names. This may help in deciding between some of your favorite baby name choices.
9. Family History. Family History often comes into play when naming a baby. If you have to use a family name that you aren't happy with, consider using it as a middle name.
10. Celebrity Names. A common source of today's baby names comes from the names of celebrities and from the names that celebrities choose for their children. Characters from TV and movies are another popular source.
11. Make sure that the name you choose is one that your child will be able to grow with. Keep in mind that it should be applicable for all ages. Many names come with stereotypes.
12. It is important for both parents to compromise when selecting a name for your baby. However, keep in mind that you can always use two names, using one as a middle name.
Good Luck! A new baby is one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime.
1. Religion: For some parents, religion plays a major role in choosing a baby name. Roman Catholics traditionally choose saints' names. Jews traditionally choose Old Testament names. Names of deceased relatives are often chosen. Protestants often choose both Old and New Testament names.
Interesting Fact! : The majority of the people in the Western hemisphere have names from the Bible. The New Testament is a more popular source of names than the Old Testament.
2. Number of Names. You have many options when it comes to the number of names you choose for your baby. It is very common for a baby to be given three names, however, this is not mandatory. You may choose a first and last name; a first and last name and only a middle initial; initials for both first and middle names; or several middle names. Keep in mind, though, that several middle names will cause space problems for your child any time he or she fills out a form.
3. Sounds. Names are easy or hard to say depending upon the combination of letters used. A name such as Harry Berry invites potential teasing. Try this to create a nice effect: choose a first name that has the same amount of syllables as the last name. Whoopi Goldberg is a good example.
Interesting Fact! : Whoopi Goldberg's original name is Caryn Johnson.
4. Pronunciation. Nobody likes to have their name mis-pronounced. This is an important factor to keep in mind with unique names.
5. Popularity. Choosing a popular name increases the likelihood that there will be other children in your child's school with the same name. This may make him or her not feel as unique. However, a child with a popular name may be perceived better by peers than a child with a unique name.
6. Stereotypes. Many names create a positive or negative image. A name is often a person's first introduction to others. Therefore, you must make careful considerations when choosing a name to fit your new baby.
7. Initials. Initials of a person's name often spell words. If you choose to take this route, be sure that it will be a word you son or daughter will be happy with.
8. Meanings. Almost every name has a meaning. However, most people don't know the meaning of their names. This may help in deciding between some of your favorite baby name choices.
9. Family History. Family History often comes into play when naming a baby. If you have to use a family name that you aren't happy with, consider using it as a middle name.
10. Celebrity Names. A common source of today's baby names comes from the names of celebrities and from the names that celebrities choose for their children. Characters from TV and movies are another popular source.
11. Make sure that the name you choose is one that your child will be able to grow with. Keep in mind that it should be applicable for all ages. Many names come with stereotypes.
12. It is important for both parents to compromise when selecting a name for your baby. However, keep in mind that you can always use two names, using one as a middle name.
Good Luck! A new baby is one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime.
Baby is Coming, Are you ready?
It has been a long pregnancy. You are probably tired and feeling worn more often then not. But, are you prepared for baby's arrival? Do you have all the baby clothes, baby furniture and bedding that you need? Perhaps you aren't even sure what you need to have? Not to worry, even if you didn't have a baby shower to help you prepare, you can find all the items you need for baby right under your nose!
One of the biggest worries when a mom to be is preparing for baby is the baby's room. Having the proper baby furniture and bedding is essential. But, what do you need and what isn't necessary? Sure, it's nice to have a whole room designed to a nursery theme with crib, rocker, bassinet, and changing table. But, all of those products aren't necessary and in fact, baby isn't going to care what she gets her diaper changed on. Changing tables are one thing that can be eliminated as well as the bassinet. Cribs and baby bedding are made to support any size baby from a newborn to a toddler. So, while these products are great to have, don't worry if you don't have them.
As for baby clothing, you will want to pamper baby for sure with cute outfits, little booties, and hats. But, the truth of the matter is, during the beginning months of baby's life, he or she won't have too many big outings to go to. In fact, mom and baby will probably spend a lot of their time resting up for the next feeding in the middle of the night. Again, yes it is great to have a dresser full of cuteness, but reality is, a few cute outfits will do just as well. Now, you should not short yourself on onesies and sleepers. Baby will spend most of his or her day in these and will more then likely need a few per day depending on how much baby decides to spit up. Don't forget the diapers! Having several burping clothes and blankets will also help.
Does all this discourage you? Every parent wants to give their child the best every step of the way. But, having the best furniture and clothing isn't going to help baby in any way. If you really want to find some or all of these items but don't have a large budget to work with, you do have other options. The most obvious of these is to ask family and friends for hand me downs. More then likely, they will be happy to lend you the items they no longer need. Or, if someone is asking you what you need, don't be afraid to tell them what you would like to have. Also, search around garage sales and thrift shops. You can clean and repaint just about anything you find. Saving money this way will help with the ever demanding diaper fund you will have to have!
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
One of the biggest worries when a mom to be is preparing for baby is the baby's room. Having the proper baby furniture and bedding is essential. But, what do you need and what isn't necessary? Sure, it's nice to have a whole room designed to a nursery theme with crib, rocker, bassinet, and changing table. But, all of those products aren't necessary and in fact, baby isn't going to care what she gets her diaper changed on. Changing tables are one thing that can be eliminated as well as the bassinet. Cribs and baby bedding are made to support any size baby from a newborn to a toddler. So, while these products are great to have, don't worry if you don't have them.
As for baby clothing, you will want to pamper baby for sure with cute outfits, little booties, and hats. But, the truth of the matter is, during the beginning months of baby's life, he or she won't have too many big outings to go to. In fact, mom and baby will probably spend a lot of their time resting up for the next feeding in the middle of the night. Again, yes it is great to have a dresser full of cuteness, but reality is, a few cute outfits will do just as well. Now, you should not short yourself on onesies and sleepers. Baby will spend most of his or her day in these and will more then likely need a few per day depending on how much baby decides to spit up. Don't forget the diapers! Having several burping clothes and blankets will also help.
Does all this discourage you? Every parent wants to give their child the best every step of the way. But, having the best furniture and clothing isn't going to help baby in any way. If you really want to find some or all of these items but don't have a large budget to work with, you do have other options. The most obvious of these is to ask family and friends for hand me downs. More then likely, they will be happy to lend you the items they no longer need. Or, if someone is asking you what you need, don't be afraid to tell them what you would like to have. Also, search around garage sales and thrift shops. You can clean and repaint just about anything you find. Saving money this way will help with the ever demanding diaper fund you will have to have!
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
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