Parenting Articles

Babies Are Assets, Not Liabilities

7/5/2016

by Richard Rowell, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Babies are beautiful things. Sure, they cost you some money, but not really any more than any other grown up person would. In my experience, if you use cloth diapers and baby formula, even the more expensive kind, they actually cost a lot less than you think. Really, the most expensive new thing you need is a car seat, and those last for awhile, especially if you get one of the combination ones.

I have never liked the idea of thinking of children as liabilities. I feel even more strongly now that children are assets. Sure, they can put a strain on your finances, but anything worth investing in is, right? And hey, so what about saving money for the kids college fund? Invested correctly, that's money well saved.

In my opinion, having children is the best thing you can do for the world. Invest strongly in their education, their health, and personal well being. While you may not get rich having kids, investing in the future of the world is its own reward.

Read more about Rich's parenting adventures with his baby daughter at The Nova Skye Story.

Infant Care: Guide to Formula Feeding a Baby

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

One of the most important aspects of infant care is nourishment. If you've decided to bottle feed out of choice or necessity, this guide to formula feeding may come in handy. It's a collection of some my best articles on formula feeding a baby.

Choosing the Right Newborn Formula for Your Baby
After choosing formula feeding for your baby, you will then need to choose an appropriate formula. This article should help you choose the right newborn formula for your bottle feeding baby.

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?
When you’re new at parenting, you may not know exactly how much to feed your baby.

How many ounces of formula does a newborn drink?

Infant Formula Dos and Don'ts for New Parents
When it comes to formula feeding, there are some things that are a must. There also are things that will be a definite no-no. Here is my list of infant formula do's and don'ts for new parents.

Newborn Feeding Guide for New Moms
If you're a new mom, you likely have many questions about feeding your new baby. Being a mom to multiple kids, as well as a former nanny, I offer tips and advice related both to formula feeding and breastfeeding based on my experiences and research.

Soy Baby Formula Benefits
Choosing the right formula can be a challenge. There are many great options for parents to consider. This article discusses some of the benefits of formula feeding a baby with a soy-based formula.

How to Tell If Your Baby Has a Soy Allergy
Cow's milk may be the most popular formula allergy to be discussed, but it isn't the only one. Did you know that a baby can be allergic to soy milk based formula as well? This article explains common soy allergy warning signs when formula feeding a baby.

How to Reduce Infant Spit Up
Infants spit up. That's a fact that cannot be completely avoided. However, there are ways to reduce infant spit up, whether formula feeding a baby or breast feeding. This article gives tips and advice on reducing the occurrence of infant spit up.

How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby's Vomiting?
Spitting up is normal in babies. But vomiting is a warning sign. How can you tell which one your baby is experiencing? How can you cure vomiting in a formula feeding baby? This article can help parents faced with this issue.

5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant
Feeding your baby can often be a challenge, no matter the method. Here are 5 secrets to successfully bottle-feeding your infant.

What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant
So you’ve read up on successfully bottle-feeding your baby. Now, here’s what NOT to do.

Crying Baby with Colic? Soothing Sounds Plus Bonus Tips to Comfort a Colicky Baby
Babies who are breastfeeding, as well as those who are formula feeding can develop colic. Colicky babies often are uncomfortable and cranky. Many times soothing sounds will help. Here are some of the best soothing sounds for babies with colic.

How to Help a Newborn Poop
Sometimes your newborn may have difficulties making a bowel movement. Learn how to help a newborn poop safely.

*This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

When your baby is first born, it’s important to make sure they feed often enough. Newborns grow quickly and regularly and need proper nourishment in order to thrive. So, if you’re not breastfeeding, how many ounces of formula does a newborn drink and how often should they feed?

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?

A newborn baby generally will drink from 1 - 3 ounces of formula at once, depending on their size. Smaller babies may drink less at once, due to their tiny stomachs, but will increase amounts as they grow to accommodate. Most should drink from 2-3 ounces at a time. However, ask your pediatrician for your baby’s specific needs, as they may vary.

How Often Should I Feed My Newborn Baby?

A newborn baby should feed every 2 - 3 hours, but might go up to 4 hours without feeding on occasion. If your newborn sleeps past 4 hours or doesn’t demand to be fed at that point, you will need to feed him or her anyway. Newborns should never go longer than 4 hours without eating. If your baby asks to be fed more often, that’s fine. Some babies feed on demand. A newborn won’t feed if they’re not hungry. Therefore, you can’t overfeed a newborn.

How Long Can Formula Sit Out?

Follow the instructions on your exact infant formula package, as they can vary. Most formula can remain unrefrigerated for up to two hours if the baby hasn’t drank from the bottle. If the baby has drank from the bottle, instead it will last only an hour, due to bacteria concerns.

Formula Feeding Safety Tips

Make sure to burp your baby after feeding each half to full ounce
Use bottles and nipples designed to help prevent gas bubbles
Never feed baby formula that has been left out for too long
Refrigerate unfed formula only (once fed, it is no longer good to refrigerate)
Never heat formula in the microwave
Never prop a newborn’s bottle for feeding
Use only the scoop that came with the formula to measure
The directions on your formula package should be trusted before the advice here
Disinfect all bottles properly

How to Get Free Baby Formula

If you’re a low-income family, many food banks will provide infant formula for free, as will other charitable organizations. You can also sign up for discounts and free samples on infant formula websites, such as Enfamil.com. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) also provides free formula to those who qualify.

*This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.

Infant Formula Dos and Don'ts for New Parents

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Making the decision on how to nourish a baby is one of the most important decisions new parents can make. If you've made the choice to formula feed your baby, there likely are some things you're wondering about. There are some things you should remember to do, as well as some don'ts when using formula to feed your baby.

DO Compare Brands and Types
Compare different brands and types of formula for nutrition value, as well as baby's specific needs. Ask the pediatrician what is recommended. Not all babies will have the same nutritional needs, so it is important to follow that advice, as well as research brands and types to find out which best meets the needs of your infant.

DON’T Buy the Cheapest Formula Without Research
The cheapest formula may be the one

your baby needs, but don't buy the cheapest just to save money. Always do research and listen to the pediatrician. It's good to save money in most cases, but not at the expense of your infant's health and nutrition.

DO Stock Up When Practical
Sometimes stores will have sales on baby formula. When baby has no issues with formula, it can be practical to stock up. It's wise to be sure you have been using the same formula to feed your baby for a while before stocking up.

DON’T Switch Brands Too Often
Switching formula can be tough on a baby's stomach. Try not to switch from the type of formula you are using unless recommended by the pediatrician.

DO Prepare Formula in Advance Where Practical
Some new moms may find it easier to prepare bottles in advance when using formula to feed a baby. However, if there is not a practical and safe way to store the bottles, it may not be a good idea.

DON’T Feed Baby Formula That Has Been Out Longer Than Recommended
New moms can check the label of the infant formula to see how long it can be unrefrigerated before going bad, as well as how long it can be refrigerated before it spoils.

DO Follow Preparation Instructions Exactly
Baby formula is developed in a way that provides a particular amount of nutrition to the infant. If it is prepared wrong, the nutritional value is altered.

DON'T Use More or Less Powder or Mixture Than Suggested
Using formula to feed a baby can be healthy if done right. Using too much mixture can cause gas, constipation, and other complications. Using less than suggested can cause poor nutrition and take away essential nutrients.

DO Heat Baby Formula Before Feeding
Babies should drink their bottles heated at an appropriate temperature. Room temperature is ideal. Babies should not drink cold bottles or those that are too hot. Both can be dangerous.

DON’T Use a Microwave For Heating Formula
Do not use a microwave to heat formula in a baby bottle or other container. Because microwaves heat unevenly, this could result in scalding.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Choosing the Right Newborn Formula for Your Baby

6/30/2016

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

While most experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option, that isn't always possible for everyone. Now that you've come to the conclusion that baby formula will be your baby's source of nutrition, you may be in the process of deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. There are many factors to consider during this decision process.

Talk With Your Child's Pediatrician

Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby should always involve a talk with your

child's pediatrician. The pediatrician can make recommendations for what may be the best choices, as well as base recommendations on a child's individual needs. If your baby has any health conditions or allergies, consulting the pediatrician about the formula is vital in making the best choice.

Know the Most Common Formula Types

Newborn babies will generally start out with a cow's milk newborn formula, unless there are known allergies or health conditions that warrant against it. Cow's milk newborn formula will be fortified with vitamins and nutrients that baby needs to grow.

Other types include:

Variants of cow’s milk
Soy
Lactose-Free
Hypoallergenic (currently protein hydrolysate or amino acid)
Goat's Milk (not recommended for newborns)

Specialized formula that addresses specific medical needs also exists. Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby involves knowledge on each of these, as well as your baby.

Know Your Baby's Nutritional Needs

If your pediatrician has recommended a newborn formula that contains Omega-3 proteins, such as DHA and ARA, be sure to factor that in when deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. One example is that of premature babies. They may require a specific type of newborn formula for optimal growth and health.

Know Your Newborn's Allergy and Medical History

If food allergies are present, deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby will include considering which options are the safest. Also keep in mind any medical issues, such as prematurity, gastrointestinal conditions, and more. In such circumstances, the pediatrician should always be consulted for the safest choice.

Factor the Cost

After taking into consideration the factors above, as well as any other personal or pediatrician-recommended concerns, think about the cost. The goal should be not to find the cheapest formula, but to find what you can afford within the formula types suited to your baby's needs. Buying in bulk during sales and shopping around can help with this. Buying in bulk works best once the baby has been doing well with the formula choice for a good amount of time.

*WARNING: Although cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and other common ingredients are used to create infant formula, these alone are not enough to provide adequate nutrition. Infant formula must contain specific amounts of very specific ingredients in order to be used for exclusive feeding. For your baby’s health and well-being, ALWAYS consult your pediatrician if you’re interested in a homemade or alternative formula for your baby.

** Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

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6 Important Tips For Working Mothers

6/29/2016

by Barney Whistance, Contributing Writer

More mothers than ever are in the workforce. Ladies now make up half of all workers in the United States, with almost 4 in 10 homes having a mother that is likewise a working mother. Being a full-time working mom can prompt feelings of guilt and stress as a result of being stuck in the middle of work and family. For men it’s not all that hectic because they don’t have to manage household chores or juggle with their children’s homework along with their workload. However, moms go crazy and tend to lose their sanity. Well, if you are a working mother and can’t find the time to have a glass of water then you need to read this article.

Share the burden

It’s high time you start sharing the burden with your partner. If you can contribute to the household’s income then morally it’s his duty to participate in the responsibilities of children as well. This would make life so much easier at moments when you have to go to a parent teacher meeting but have a work deadline to meet, as well. This is where your partner can step in by going to the parent teacher conference or cooking a meal for the family if you got stuck with some work in the office or by picking and dropping the kid to school. These little responsibilities, when divided, make life so much more convenient.

Stop feeling guilty

Instead of beating yourself up on how you're not with your child, consider how your part in the firm is profiting the family. Maybe you can afford the cost of specific educational opportunities for your kids or you can save up for their college fees.

Don’t let other mothers bring you down

At times, other mothers can be really supportive of your decision; they boost your confidence and push you to achieve better goals. However, at times they could be very jealous that you’re doing so much better than them and they may feel the need to criticize you in order to satisfy their ego. Remember, only those who point fingers at you are the ones who are jealous of your success. So don’t think you’re a bad parent just because they say so.

Don’t be a pushover at work

Don’t let your office push you around. Don’t let them dictate terms to you that are unfair on you. Set your limits, tell them that you will leave the office at a certain time, every day, regardless of whatever happens. If you’re unable to complete an assignment, tell them that you will complete it from home.

Be organized

An important thing to take notice of as to avoid running around like a maniac is being organized. Decide what you’re going to cook for breakfast tomorrow and what lunch are you going to pack for your children. Be sure to iron out all the clothes a night before. This means your children’s clothes, your husband’s shirts and pants and your blouses or dresses. Hire a day time nanny who can take care of your kids while you’re at work so she can take care of your children. That way you won’t have to run back and forth from your office worrying about their lunch time and putting them to sleep in the afternoon or taking them to the park.

Do each task at the right time

Moms get overburdened with office work and they can’t juggle between both, their family and work life together at times. They bring their work home and that way children may get neglected. Don’t waste time at work by Facebooking or using your phone, set a target and aim to complete it by the end of the day. If you do bring work home only do it when the kids are asleep or in school. Don’t work around them. Try to avoid multi-tasking.

Soy Baby Formula Benefits

6/28/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you are pregnant or have a newborn baby, you may be wondering about the health benefits of soy baby formula, compared to breast milk, cow's milk-based formula, or another formula type. Are there health benefits to soy formula over other formulas, and when should a baby drink soy formula?

Soy Formula May Decrease Rotavirus Infections

According to ScienceDaily, research has shown that soy isoflavones found in soy baby formula may help decrease the likelihood of rotavirus infections. Rotavirus infections are the leading cause of diarrhea in infants. Also, just like cow's milk baby formula, soy baby formula can be an adequate source of nutrition during baby's first year. This may leave some parents wondering if they should use soy baby formula from the start or make the switch to soy baby formula for their infant's health.

Are Soy Baby Formula Benefits Worth The Risks?

While there are health benefits to soy baby formula, that does not mean it is the correct choice for every infant. Each baby has unique medical and nutritional needs. Therefore, any dietary habits should be discussed with the baby's pediatrician. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), soy-based infant formula should be used only in certain circumstances.

Soy baby formula used to be a common alternative for infants who were lactose intolerant, but that is no longer the case. There now is lactose-free baby formula, as well as hypoallergenic baby formula. Many babies who have an allergic reaction to cow's milk will also have an allergic reaction with soy based formula. In fact, a significant percentage of infants who have severe gastrointestinal problems as a reaction to cow's milk baby formula will likely have similar reactions to soy baby formula.

Which Babies Should Consume Soy Baby Formula?

The benefits of soy baby formula are said to be recommended to infants who have strict vegans as parents. Infants who have true lactose intolerance (not to be confused with a cow's milk allergy) could also benefit from soy baby formula. Although, as mentioned above, there are other options.

Another group of infants that is said to gain health benefits from soy baby formula are those with congenital galactosemia. Babies with this rare condition do not have the enzyme that would turn galactose into glucose. Galactose is found in breast milk, cow's milk, and other dairy products. If too much galactose builds up in the body, it can lead to serious health concerns, including death. Therefore, soy baby formula is recommended for infants who have congenital galactosemia.

Discuss Soy Baby Formula With Your Pediatrician

If you are concerned about your baby’s health or are curious about soy baby formula, ask your pediatrician. The research and information above is not intended as a replacement for discussing a child's health and nutritional needs with a qualified pediatrician. Before starting, switching, or stopping any type of baby formula, the child's pediatrician should always be consulted.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

How to Reduce Infant Spit Up

6/27/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you have an infant or are caring for one, you are likely going to deal with spit up at one time or another. That is simply a part of caring for a baby. Chances are you realize that and are looking for information on how to reduce spit up, not eliminate it (which probably won't happen). As a mom and former nanny, here’s what I've learned about how to reduce infant spit up.

Burp Baby Frequently

Sometimes gas can be the cause of spitting up. Making sure to burp baby frequently during and after feedings could help reduce infant spit up. Burping baby frequently can also help prevent other issues and keep baby happy. If burping isn’t working, ask your pediatrician if it’s safe to try Little Remedies infant gas drops. These are usually safe for babies of all ages.

Avoid Cow's Milk

Cow's milk is not recommended for infants. In addition to spit up, feeding cow's milk to infants will not provide adequate nutrition and can cause other health issues. Help reduce infant spit up by avoiding cow's milk until the age recommended by your child's pediatrician. Infants from newborn to 12 months should only drink formula or breastmilk. Solid foods can be introduced as mentioned below.

Be Cautious with Solid Foods

Introducing solid foods to a baby's diet before the stomach is ready can sometimes cause excess spit up. Parents can try to reduce infant spit up by waiting until at least 4 months of age to introduce anything other than breastmilk or formula. This is best for baby for a variety of reasons.

Choose the Correct Formula or Eat Healthier

Sometimes a baby may spit up due to certain types of formula. It may be due to an allergy of that formula or just a sensitivity issue. Breastfeeding mothers may need to adjust their diet to one that better agrees with their infant’s sensitive stomach. With proper research and advice from the pediatrician, parents can help reduce infant spit up.

Use the Correct Feeding Positions

A baby needs to be in a certain position while feeding. The head and chest should be slightly elevated. The baby also needs to latch onto the bottle nipple or breast in such a way that reduces air bubbles. Air bubbles can cause gas, which can, in turn cause spit up. There are also specially designed nipples and bottles for this purpose. Try a Boppy nursing pillow and positioner for correct feeding positions every time, whether a baby is breast or bottle fed. If none of this is working, parents can help to reduce infant spit up by consulting with a pediatrician for the proper feeding techniques.

Breastfeed to Reduce Infant Spit Up

If you can breastfeed, it’s of course a good idea. But it’s understandably not a possibility for everyone. I've heard some moms claim their breastfed infants are less likely to spit up as formula fed infants. I have yet to find any solid, published opinions on this from medical experts, but since breastfeeding has many other proven benefits, it is worth a try if you’re able.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

How to Prepare a Toddler for a New Baby in the Family

6/22/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Welcoming a new baby can bring out various emotions in the family. Preparing a toddler for a new arrival in the family can be both a wonderful and a stressful time. There are many ways to help your toddler prepare and feel a smooth transition into the idea of having a new baby around the house and many can start during the pregnancy.

Avoid Jealousy

Some toddlers may become jealous of a new baby brother or sister. One way to avoid jealousy is to involve the toddler in shopping for the baby. A toddler can also help to prepare the nursery area. You may choose to let the toddler pick out fabric to prepare the new baby's wrap or nursery bedding. You could also consider allowing the toddler to pick a special stuffed animal or other decorative item to be on display in the baby's room.

Teaching Involvement Through Experience

Another way to prepare and involve a toddler is to teach him or her about babies while the baby is still in the womb. Allowing the toddler to feel the baby move can be helpful in this area as can reading him or her books about babies. Taking the toddler to a daycare, a friend or a relative's house or other location where they can see a baby up close may allow the toddler to prepare for and understand what exactly a baby is. Allowing the child to attend prenatal appointments and see the baby through ultrasound/sonogram as well as hear the heartbeat can also give the toddler a sense of the baby's existence.

Help Ease Resentment

Anger or resentment is another issue toddlers can experience when there is a new baby introduced to the family. One way to help avoid this is to start any changes related to the toddler in regards to the baby before the toddler even knows about the baby coming. For instance, switching the toddler to a bigger bed in order to reserve and prepare the crib for the baby can cause resentment toward the baby in some children. A possible way to avoid this could be to make the new bed transition before making the announcement of the baby and making the bed transition more of an accomplishment of the toddler rather than an adjustment made to prepare for the new baby.

Another situation that could cause resentment is the fact that some toddlers may think the new baby will take all of the attention and love from the parents. If a toddler is used to being the center of attention, the announcement of a new baby may worry him or her and cause thoughts that he or she will be pushed aside to make room for the new baby. Explaining that families have enough love for everyone may help ease the child's mind in this situation.

There are various ways to help a toddler prepare and get used to the idea of having a new baby brother or sister in the house. Each family and situation will be unique. Therefore, catering your welcoming methods to your toddler's individual needs may be the best way of all to prepare him or her for the changes that lie ahead.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Get Tweens to Do Chores Using Allowance and Computer Time

6/14/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

As a seasoned parent, I have tried my fair share of chore charts, rewards, and punishments when it comes to chores. Some worked for a short period of time and some were a failure from the start. Only one has stood the test of time with both young kids and even tweens. This is when we use a chore tracking system that includes rewards of both money and computer time. It requires a list of chores and a tracking chart. With this method, it’s been possible to get tweens to do chores using allowance and computer time. The tweens are open to this, as are the younger kids. Here’s how it’s done.

Step 1: Create a chore list. This can be on a small sheet of paper that will be tacked to the refrigerator or another common area. List all chores throughout the entire house, big or small. I find it easy to sort the chores by rooms. This helps the kids find them and it also separates simple and hard tasks. For instance, taking out office trash may be simpler than taking out kitchen trash.

Step 2: Assign points to each chore. In our house, each point is equal to either a penny or 30 seconds of computer time. Determine how many points should be awarded for each chore, based on its difficulty. For instance, doing the dishes might be worth 50 points (variable). That would be 25 minutes of computer time or 50 cents. But a more simple chore, like washing the counters, might only be worth 15-20 points, depending on how dirty the counters may be.

Step 3: Determine when the reward will occur. We allow the computer time to be redeemed any time there is no schoolwork or housework that needs doing. But if the tweens choose money, they can redeem their points for money once per week. This teaches the value of saving because they have to wait and there is only so much computer time one could want. We also limit computer time to a certain number of minutes per day per kid.

Step 4: Create a tracking chart. This is separate from the chore list. The tracking sheet will be easiest to use if it can be erased and reused each week. We like to use a dry erase board and markers. We write in each child's name and when they do each chore, the points are placed with their name. The kids are allowed to choose any chores they please. You may decide to do this differently. If any points are rewarded before the end of the week (computer points), those are eased. This way, at the end of the week, the tweens are not confused as to how many points they should have.

Step 5: Discuss the chart with your tweens. Let them know the basic rules, as well as how many chores (if any) are expected each day. We are more free with this and I think that opens them up to offer more than they might normally do if forced. Because they have an incentive, it's usually not necessary to ask them to do certain things. They already know that if they don't do any chores, they don't get any allowance or computer time because there won't be any points.

Each parent who uses this method may choose to add their own rules or modify the system to fit their family. It is not important to stick to my exact method because each child is different. Consistency is the most important factor of this chore rewards system, as with any other. No matter the method you choose to use with your tweens, be sure it is the right fit in your family and one you can follow through with. Consistency and follow-through are the secrets to success in anything.

Teaching Tweens Independence

6/12/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Teaching tweens independence is not just a one-shot deal. You have to be persistent and consistent, working at it throughout the tweenage years. There isn't just one magic tip or activity that you can do to ensure independence. It's a way of life you lead together, combining everyday things to get the final result. For us, it has been an ever-present effort that ultimately leads to them keeping the attitude required for independence and leadership.

Give tweens newer, more difficult tasks. At this stage, your child should already be doing certain things independently. But expanding that into more areas is key to your tween's growth in independence. For instance, if your tween normally only rinses the dishes, have her wash and dry them too. If your tween

normally fills the mop bucket, have him mop the floors as well. The goal is to expand on current tasks and add on new ones as needed. This helps encourage independence at a pace your child can handle.

Give tweens full responsibility for any pets they have. Your tween may already have small pet-related tasks, such as feeding them, cleaning food dishes, playing with them, etc. But try slowly adding on more tasks as can be handled until the pet's full responsibility is up to your tween child. For instance, a 7-year-old may play with her hamster, feed her, and give her small treats as necessary. As she can handle it throughout the months and years, cage changing and cleaning and other tasks can be added.

Start teaching tweens to babysit with 'mommy's helper' tasks. Depending on your tween's age and maturity, being what's called a mommy's helper can aid in teaching independence. A mommy's helper is a babysitter or nanny that tends to the younger kids while the responsible adult is still present. Basically, this tween will be responsible for entertaining siblings and preparing simple snacks and meals. It's similar to babysitting, except that there is a responsible adult around to handle the more serious tasks. A mommy's helper usually busies the younger kids while mom works, cleans, or handles other household duties.

Enroll your tween in a sport or extracurricular activity. It's true that being involved in sports and activities teaches kids teamwork. But it also teaches independence. They have to learn to do things without you there to help. While you may be sitting on the sidelines at a game, it is up your tween to take action. It's especially helpful if your tween becomes team captain or gets to lead one or more classes with activity instruction.

Be independent yourself. If your tween sees you depending on others to get things done, that's the example that will be followed. But if you show that you can do things with or without the assistance of others, that can go a very long way. Because I work from home without a boss, my kids have seen me be very independent from the start. Even when I held more traditional jobs, I've always been a do-it-yourselfer. Whether you think so or not, the things you say and do are going to rub off on your kids.

Don't be afraid to let go. Some of the resistance to independence tweens can feel may be due in part to your own resistance. If you can't let go of the security blanket, then neither will your tween. Being free to do things and make decisions on their own prepares tweens for life. While you can't completely let go at this stage, it's important to ease up on controlling the things they can handle on their own.

Realizing Your Tween is Becoming a Teen

6/11/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

"I don't want to go there anymore. That's for little kids." "When can I start wearing makeup?" "Can I ask that girl out?" Those are all questions older tweens may ask. When your tween is becoming a teen, it can be both difficult and rewarding at the same time. All the fun you had is evolving into something different. How does a parent deal with the realization that their tween is turning into a teen right before their eyes? As a parent who's been through this twice and is in the middle of it again with two more, here's my advice.

Step back and observe. Take a look at how your tween is behaving. It can be hard to realize your tween is growing up. But once they hit age eleven or twelve, it's time to hit the sidelines and come up with an entirely new strategy. Soon your tween will become a teen and it's a whole

new ball game full of new discoveries, milestones, and successes and failures. If you pay attention to your tween, you'll be prepared to beat that teen attitude with a smile. Believe me, your effort will be much appreciated.

Letting go is hard, but necessary. Teens need much more space than younger kids. Not only are they likely going through an emotional roller coaster. But being independent is a big part of growing into the adult stage. When your tween starts to become a teen, it's the perfect time to prepare yourself by letting go of certain things. Let your tween make certain choices in preparation for becoming a teen. You can't (and shouldn't) control everything.

You're still in charge, but in a different way. Now, just because you will let go of some things when your tween becomes a teen, it doesn't necessarily mean you aren't the boss. You still have the final word and your tween should know this. However, your tween needs to also feel secure in making some decisions without your help. This will become even more necessary once your tween matures into the teenage years. Just choose your time together wisely and pick your battles.

Take it one step at a time. It's not going to be easy letting go of your baby or realizing that baby is getting closer to becoming an adult. Just relax and take things as they come. Ease yourself into the process by slowly giving up things within reason. Talk to parents who have been down that road before. Your tween is likely going to be acting differently than a few years ago. There will be new interests, new friends, more mature looks, and possibly a new attitude. It's all a natural part of life, as hard as it may be to watch unfold. For every difficult moment, there will be many happy ones. Always remember that.

Find different activities to share. Just because your tween is turning into a teenager, it doesn't mean you can't still have fun together. But your tween's idea of fun may be entirely different than before. Listen your growing child's opinions and choices and let them be heard. Savor the memories from your prior family destinations and activities. Then, make new ones to treasure that go along with your growing teen's needs. Trips to the mall may start to involve movie play dates and makeovers instead of the kiddie play area and ice cream cones. Find out those new things your tween is into and learn how to make them work for you both. Who cares if you don't like the latest band? Take your tween to that concert or buy the music anyway.

How To Get Free Baby Stuff (with Bonus Promo Codes)

4/26/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you have a baby on the way, you likely already know just how expensive some of those essentials can be. But did you know you can get most or all of them for free? Dealing with a huge financial setback, due to a high risk pregnancy has taught me how to prepare for the baby with very little to spend. Here’s how myself and my partner got most of our baby’s items for free.

Utilize Listia

Listia is a free auction-style site that doesn’t actually require real money. You use credits to bid on items that people list. When you sign up for free using my Listia link, you get 1000 bonus credits for free to start with. We actually won a ton of baby items for free using Listia. In fact, a large portion of what we got for the baby came from here. To earn more credits after you run out, you can do a variety of things, such as doing simple tasks, taking surveys, or listing your own items for auction. Items can be new or used and you choose what you bid on. You can also buy credits. But I would only recommend doing so for items that are worth it and would cost less that way than it would to buy them the usual way.

Just to give an idea, some of the things we won for free include a Tommee Tippee electric bottle & food warmer, hand knitted baby socks and gloves, newborn onesies and pajamas, crocheted booties, lots of various infant clothing, a sock monkey, baby books, parenting books, breastmilk storage/feeding bottles, brand name baby bottles, baby prewalker shoes, cloth diapers, breastfeeding cover, car seat strap covers, baby car magnet, car seat/carrier toy bar, and more.

Just a small dose of the many free baby items we've won on Listia
(more ways to get free baby stuff under the gallery)

Contact Product Companies

Sometimes people don’t think of this one. But did you know that if you simply ask companies for a sample, many will give you one? I’ve found it even more successful if you have a baby on the way. Companies like to get new parents to try out their items because if they like them, that’s repeat business. Simply contact them on social media or via their website, explaining that you’re a new parent (if you’re a writer or blogger and/or have a large social following, that helps even more) and would like to try out their product.

Some will say no, but many will say yes and get you something in the mail. We’ve gotten response from cloth diapering companies, baby bottle companies, leg warmer companies, car seat cover companies, and many more. Some might ask for a simple review on Amazon or your blog. Some might ask you to post a picture via social media. Some may not ask for anything at all. Just remember, if you do a review, it’s the law to disclose that you got the item for free.

Government & Other Assistance Programs

If you qualify for WIC, medicaid, or other government assistance, ask about the free car seat program. Many states will provide one to each baby born to a qualifying family. Some will distribute the car seat at the hospital when the baby is born. Others have specific distribution locations. Be sure to get all the details before your little one arrives. There are also often local food banks and other charitable organizations that give out free baby items, such as car seats, clothing, strollers, nursery furniture, and more. Some divisions of Catholic Charities have been known to help in some of these areas.

Craigslist Free Section

Did you know that the for sale section in Craigslist also has a free section? People often post completely free items there. We check all the time to see if there’s anything available that we need. One really awesome item we got on there is a normally pricey 3-in-1 swing, infant seat, and rocker. We got it completely free. All we had to do is drive to the person’s house and pick it up off their porch. Yup, that’s it. We sanitized and cleaned it, then replaced the batteries, and it works just like new.

(more ways to get free baby stuff under the image)

Free Baby Sample Sites, Promo Codes, and Clubs

Don’t forget to join clubs for all of the companies you may use if they have them. Enfamil, Similac, and Pampers are three of the more popular ones. Also, there are many sites that offer free baby items if you pay shipping.

If you enter promo code “babyleggings6” at the following sites, you’ll get the items for free. You just pay S&H.

Free Car Seat Canopy ($50 value)
Free Udder Covers Nursing Cover ($35 Value)
Free Nursing Pillow ($40 Value)
Free Seven brand baby carrier/sling ($40 Value)
10 pairs of free Breast Pads ($35 Value)
2 Belly Button Maternity Bands OR 1 Belly Button Body for free ($40 Value)
5 Baby Board Books ($40 Value)

You can also do a search for “free baby samples” to find a bunch of sites. Just be careful when you enter your information that these are legitimate sites. There are many scams out there that are only trying to harvest your info.

(more ways to get free baby stuff under the image)

Amazon Baby Registry

This one is kind of a given. Most people with a baby on the way have a registry. Amazon is the easiest way to make one, as the Amazon Baby Registry is designed so that you can add items from any online page, not just Amazon. It’s also completely FREE and they give you a welcome box of FREE surprises for the baby and parent/s. This alone is worth using the registry. Our welcome box had things like baby wipes, an Avent bottle, breast pads, bath items, pacifiers, and more.

Your friends and family likely want to help anyhow. If you’re having a hard time, this is a simple way to let them know what’s needed. We actually created ours as a way for us to organize and we greatly underestimated the generosity that would ensue because of it.

We never expected anyone to help, but the generosity of family and friends has been overwhelming (in a good way). I wouldn’t consider this “free”in the usual sense, as most people create these for the same organizational purpose we did. However, because others may be purchasing some of the items, it should be on this list.

Quick tip for the registry: When you purchase items elsewhere, add them to the registry and then mark them as purchased. That way, you and other people always know what you need and what you don’t. This makes it so much easier to plan for the baby.

Poisonous Houseplants to Keep Away from Kids

4/14/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

"Mommy, Mommy! My arms are itchy!" Your toddler is standing below you tugging at your pant leg with persistence. You look at her arms and discover she has some sort of rash. To avoid risky scenarios as much as possible, parents can learn more about common houseplants that are poisonous. Here are some of the most common poisonous houseplants to keep away from kids.

Amaryllis

An amaryllis is a bulbous herbal houseplant. The flowers are funnel-shaped and vary in color. The poisonous part of the amaryllis is the bulb. If ingested, it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and salivation. Children may be attracted to the amaryllis for its stunning color and shape.

Azalea

The azalea is a flowering shrub with round clumps of blooms. They can be white, pink or yellow in color. They bear two types of leaves. All parts of the azalea are poisonous. When ingested, these houseplants can cause salivation, loss of energy, depression, nausea, paralysis in the arms and legs, coma, breathing difficulties, weakness and more. These flowers are bright in color and have a unique shape.

Caladium

The caladium has heart-shaped leaves and can be green, red, orange or white, depending on the species. Some other names for caladium houseplants include mother-in-law plant, heart-of-Jesus, caladio, cananga and angel wings. All parts of the caladium are poisonous when ingested. The caladium causes major irritation to the lips, mouth and throat.

Calla Lily

The calla lily is a houseplant with long stems or stalks and leaves shaped like arrows. They bloom in white or green. The leaves are the poisonous portion of calla lily houseplants. Irritations to the skin can occur on contact. Ingestion causes an extreme burning feeling to the lips and mouth. While toxic, the calla lily is often considered a very beautiful flowering houseplant. Thus, children may naturally be attracted to its beauty.

Cyclamen

The cyclamen can be both rounded and heart shaped. This houseplant has flowers which come in red, pink or white. The roots are the poisonous area of cyclamen houseplants. Ingestion can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, paralysis and convulsions. Skin irritation from contact may also occur. Children may be attracted to the delicate size, vibrant colors or unique shape.

Dumb Cane

Also commonly called dieffenbachia, the dumb cane is a tall leafy plant. The leaves are large and can have ivory colored patches. The poisonous part of the dumb cane is the leaf. If chewed on, the leaf will cause intense pain and cause the mouth to swell. Children may be drawn to this poisonous houseplant because of the design on the leaves or the fact that the leaves are big and easy to grab.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus plants belong to the evergreen family. The leaves are rounded and can be a dark green or red tone. The leaves and bark of the eucalyptus tree are poisonous. Contact skin irritation can occur. Also, ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and coma. The oil from a eucalyptus tree is toxic.

Jerusalem Cherry

The Jerusalem cherry or coral can be in the form of shrubs or herbs. These houseplants are often spiny or hairy. Black, orange or red berries grow from this plant. The entire plant is poisonous if ingested. However, the berries are the most potent. When ingested, the Jerusalem cherry causes throat irritation, fever, diarrhea and gastric irritation. Children may be attracted to this poisonous houseplant because of its colorful berries. To children, they may resemble edible berries.

Philodendron

This is generally a climbing vine. Most have large heart-shaped leaves. Contact with the philodendron can cause skin irritation. Ingestion of philodendron plants can cause burning to the lips, mouth and throat. Some children may be attracted to the clutching or climbing aspect of vine houseplants, such as the philodendron.

Rosary Pea

Also known as rosary pearls, these are tropical houseplants bearing red berries. Ingestion of broken seeds causes a delayed reaction of vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, major abdominal pain, burning in the throat and lesions in the mouth and esophagus. The rosary pea can cause death. Because the peas look edible and are bright red, resembling cranberries, they may attract children.

Being sure that the plants in your house are not poisonous to children can save you stress later and even avoid tragedy. Read up on educational materials and consult with poison control centers to better understand which houseplants are safe to have around children and which are not.

Sources:
California Poison Control System
Poisonous Plant Resource Sheet For Childcare Providers (State of NC)

5 Things to Consider when Choosing a Primary Care Physician

4/11/2016

by Alicia Bodine, Contributing Writer

Image © llmicrofono Oggiono; Flickr.com

Choosing a Doctor can be a difficult decision. You must take in to consideration you want a doctor that you can count on for many years to come. Here are 5 things you can consider when deciding which physician is right for you:

1. Insurance/Price: Does the physician take your insurance? If not, what are his or her rates? Are the rates high or low compared to other doctors in the area? If they are too high, that might be an indication that the doctor cares more about money than he does about his patients. You really want to find someone who charges the going rate or less. You will also want to ask how much the doctor charges for certain tests and extras. It is better to be prepared than to sign on with a doctor (having no insurance that is) and then find yourself in a big debt.

2. Hours of operation: What are the doctor's office hours? Will there be someone to take your calls if the doctor is not available on weekends? Does the doctor have hours for patients in his care who are in the hospital? This is important because if you end up needing to stay at the hospital you will get whatever doctor is on call.

3. Years of Experience: How long has the doctor been in practice? Where did he attend college? Where did he complete his apprenticeship? If your doctor is brand new, just out of college he hasn't had much life experience yet. I would not advise taking this kind of physician on. You should wait until a physician has had a decent amount of years working under or with a veteran doctor.

4. Referrals: Do you know anyone in town who goes to this Doctor? What is their recommendation? Make sure you talk to at least 10 individuals to get an overall feel. Also find out how long the individual has been a patient so you can gauge whether they have had a chance to get to know the doctor or not.

5. The Doctors Demeanor: Does the doctor explain things in a way you can understand? Does the doctor talk down to you or like you are equals? Does the doctor seem happy to see you or are you just another number? Think about what kind of person you enjoy interacting with. Does this doctor have those qualities?

Making the decision to choose a primary care physician should not be taken likely. In an ideal situation you want to have a good relationship with your doctor. If something were to go wrong you want to know ahead of time that this doctor will be able to handle it, make the proper diagnosis, refer you to the right specialists, and do it in a kind manner. Use the above questions to guide yourself in choosing the right doctor for you.

This article previously appeared on the Yahoo Contributor Network

Guide to Healthy Infant Skin Care: Cleansing, Moisturizing, and More

4/5/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Some mistakenly think that healthy skin comes naturally for a baby. In a sense, it does. But, to keep infant skin healthy, proper skin care techniques should be applied. I am a mother experienced in infant skin care for several children, as well as keeping my own skin healthy. I feel my experience could be useful to many parents interested in baby skin care. Over the years, I have gained knowledge through trial and error, the advice of doctors, and also through research.

Getting Started With Healthy Infant Skin Care

Before starting to care for your baby’s skin, do a product inventory. Read labels of cleansing products, lotions and moisturizers, and laundering products. Check for unnecessary chemicals and fragrance. Products that promote healthy infant skin should include mainly water, moisturizers, disinfectants (for cleansing products), and vitamins and minerals. Beyond that, there shouldn't be many other ingredients. While fragrance is included in many baby care products, it often is not good for promoting healthy skin care. Some babies are sensitive to fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals. Even those who are not should be limited to their exposure. I personally do not use any commercial baby products and opt for making my own, due to difficulty finding any that do not contain harmful chemicals.

Cleansing Your Baby’s Skin For Optimal Health

The first step to maintaining healthy skin for an infant is properly cleansing the skin. A baby should not necessarily be using the same cleansers as an adult. Some of those can be harsh on a baby's skin, causing it to dry out or get irritated. Dry or irritated skin is not healthy skin. A good baby cleansing product should contain a cleanser or disinfectant, possibly a moisturizer, water, and vitamins or minerals. Other ingredients should be minimal or non-existent. Soft cloths made of 100% cotton are best for applying cleansers to infant skin. Plain, fragrance free glycerin soap with only oatmeal and almond oil (not to be confused with almond extract or scented essential oils) is a good choice. It’s actually quite easy to make your own.

Moisturizers For Infant Skin Health

Moisturizing is another important step to healthy skin care in infants. Many babies naturally have soft skin, but to maintain that soft, healthy skin, frequent moisturizing is necessary. Using just any moisturizer is not necessarily better than none. The harsh ingredients in some of them can be detrimental to healthy skin care for a baby and can actually deplete moisture. If you can’t make your own products, check labels to be sure the ingredients consist of a proper moisturizer, preferably some vitamins and minerals, as well as purified water. I personally recommend simple coconut or almond oil infused with pure (unfragranced) vitamin E oil.

Bedding and Clothing Play an Important Role in Infant Skin Care

Often overlooked are the garments babies wear, as well as their bedding. Anything that comes in contact with a baby's skin should be considered in maintaining healthy skin care habits. Be cautious of the fabrics used to make the bedding and clothing. Also, pay attention to the laundering products used. Avoid products that contain chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Natural laundry detergent is best for maintaining healthy skin care in an infant.

To avoid wrinkling in the clothing, try hanging the clothing neatly on the clothesline in the sun. The sunshine method also can help to freshen the clothing, taking away the need for a fabric refresher. Another freshening method is to add a small amount of baking soda (maybe a teaspoon) to the washer with a cup of vinegar. This can serve as a cleanser, disinfectant, de-wrinkler, and fabric softener all at once.

Things to Remember:

Check infant skin care products for chemicals, dyes, and fragrance.
Anything that touches a baby's skin should be considered in maintaining healthy skin care habits.
To maintain that soft, healthy skin babies can have, frequent moisturizing is necessary.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

When to Wean Your Baby from Breastmilk: Transitioning to Solid Foods

4/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you are breastfeeding, you'll want to know when to begin weaning your baby from breastmilk. There is no generalized answer to that question. However, the following information may be helpful in determining an answer. Some may be weaning in order to go back to work while others may be weaning for other reasons, such as the transition into solid foods.

When Should I Start Weaning My Baby?

According to KidsHealth.org, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies are breastfed until at least 6 months of age. At that point, it is recommended that a combination of breastmilk and solid foods be given until the baby is at least 1 year old.

Experts will vary on the exact time when moms can begin weaning their baby. Consulting with your child's pediatrician is a great way to be sure that the choice you make is catered to your baby's individual needs. Beyond that, watch for cues from your baby's actions, combining that with the doctor's advice. I always found that combining the doctor's advice with baby's cues led to a successful weaning process.

Transitioning to Solids

Some babies will wean on their own naturally during the transition to solid foods. Others may need their mother to take a leadership role when it comes to weaning. Some are not as willing to wean as others. It may be the easiest to begin weaning your baby when solid foods are a particular interest or distraction. The excitement of new foods may distract the baby's attention from breastfeeding.

When a baby is showing more interest in transitioning to drinking liquids in a cup and eating more solid foods, this is a good indication of when to begin weaning. Baby food and liquid amounts should be discussed with the pediatrician to be sure that baby is eating the correct amount.

Reducing & Eliminating Nightly Feedings

The nightly feedings seem to be the hardest to shy the baby away from. Therefore some mothers opt to use transitioning to solid foods as a perfect opportunity to eliminate nightly feedings. Some mothers may still choose to offer a nightly feeding while transitioning the baby to solids.

Importance of Gradual Weaning

During the process of weaning, you don't want to just stop breastfeeding all of a sudden. Weaning a baby should involve gradually decreasing the amount of breastmilk given, while gradually increasing other forms of nourishment. This helps to ensure that the baby is getting the proper nourishment needed to thrive. If you are at all unsure of what to do during the process, don't hesitate to talk to your child's pediatrician to accurately assess what is healthy for your baby.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

8 Ideas for Easy Breast Milk Storage

4/1/2016

by Alicia Bodine, Contributing Writer

There are a few reasons why a mother would want to pump her milk and save it for later. First, she may have to go back to work. In this case she will need to provide milk for the caregiver to use while she is away. Second, she may want to feed the baby with a bottle because the baby drinks the milk faster this way. Since the breast milk is best, she pumps it and uses it in the bottle. Finally, she may just want to allow someone else in the family to enjoy feeding the baby.

Once the milk is pumped, it will need to be stored. Here are 8 easy breast milk storage methods that you can use:

1. Place the milk directly in to the bottle at set it out on the kitchen counter. This is perfectly acceptable if you plan on feeding the baby within the next 4 hours.

2. Place the milk directly in to the bottle and set it in your refrigerator. You can do this for all of the bottles you think you will use over the next 3-4 days. The milk will still be fresh, you will just need to heat it up before serving it to the baby.

3. Pour your pumped milk in to some baby food jars and place them in the freezer. Breast milk will stay good for up to 4 months. Just take it out and place it in the refrigerator a few hours before you want to use it so that it thaws out naturally.

4. Purchase some nursing bags and pour your breast milk in them. These bags can be kept in a refrigerator or a freezer. These bags are sterilized and made specifically for storing your breast.

5. Use store bought freezer bags to store your breast milk. You will need to purchase smaller ones because you won't want to store large amounts in one bag. You would end up wasting some after you thawed it out.

6. Pour the breast milk in to a plastic soda bottle. Make sure that you sterilize the plastic soda bottle first. You can then leave it on the counter,place it in the freezer, or place it in the refrigerator.

7. Use small Tupperware containers. Tupperware comes with a lifetime guarantee because it is so durable. You an then store the milk on the counter, in the fridge, or in the freezer.

8. Clean out your left over pickle jars and use them to store your breast milk. These containers have lids that screw on tight so they are perfect for storing milk. You can also place these in a refrigerator or freezer or just leave them out on the counter.

Tips:
Always write the date on the storage container or bag so that you know how long you have been storing it.

Warning:
Always use thawed out breast milk within one day and never place it back in the freezer.

This article was previously published on the Yahoo Contributor Network.

A Pregnancy Summertime Survival Guide

3/31/2016

by Alicia Bodine, Contributing Writer

Being pregnant during the summer months is not easy. You get hotter than usual and sometimes can't get comfortable. You don't have to suffer unnecessarily. There are a few things you can do to survive those hot summer months. Here are a few of them:

1. Don't argue with Mother Nature. In other words, when the weatherman says it is going to be hot AND humid you need to stay in doors. Make sure you have an adequate fan or air conditioner available. If you absolutely have to travel make sure you car has air conditioning as well as the destination. I highly recommend you avoid outdoor activities on these days.

2. Use wet wash cloths. I loved using wet wash cloth's in the summer. The trick is placing them around the back of your neck. It tends to cool off the whole body just from that one spot. I am not a scientist, I am just commenting on my own experiences. Some folk suggest you use a water bottle and spray yourself through out the day. Whatever you prefer, it helps you use cold water on and off during those hot days.

3. Plan to run your errands either early or late. The hottest hours of the day are reportedly between the hours of 10am and 2pm. Get your shopping, banking, etc done early if you are a morning person or after dinner if you are a night owl. I personally liked getting up early and not having to go anywhere the rest of the day. Either way, avoid the sun in the afternoon.

4. Drink plenty of water. I think this has to be one of the most important things on the survival list. Water will keep your body hydrated. I personally can't quench my thirst with anything else. I recommend always having a nice cold glass of ice water handy wherever you go. If you have to be out and about, pack a little cooler that holds at least 3 drinks. Then you will be sure not to run out.

5. Don't be shy. Ask for help with daily activities if you need it. Over exerting yourself during those summer months can result in exhaustion, burn out, or worse. And if you are outdoors you increase your chances for suffering from heat stroke. The important thing is keeping you and your unborn baby as safe, healthy, and comfortable as possible.

6. Get plenty of rest. Let's face it, you won't have time for rest when the baby is born so you mine as well get it while you can. You also have to remember you are carrying around a lot of extra weight making it more strenuous and tiresome to keep up with your normal daily activities. Taking some naps and getting plenty of rest at night will help keep you at your best.

7. Always wear sunscreen. I remember getting several lectures from my nurses when I showed up for a check up with a tan. According to them I should have been wearing sun block with a SPF of 100. Seriously though, it is recommended that you wear at least a sun block with a SPF of 15 every time you venture outdoors.

This article was previously published on the Yahoo Contributor Network.

4 Ways You Can Continue to Use Your Christmas Cards After Christmas

3/29/2016

by Alicia Bodine, Contributing Writer

It seems such a waste to receive so many Christmas cards in December and then throw them away come January 1st. Here are some ideas that can help you get more use out of your yearly Christmas cards.

1. I once had a family tell me that they held a holiday Christmas Card contest. They planned a night to judge the most creative card, most decorative, and card that displayed the best humor. Not only was this a great time for the family to spend bonding together, but the Christmas cards got more than just a glance before getting tossed into the trash can.

2. My family takes great joy in using our Christmas cards for decorations. We place each one along the tops of the doorways on the inside of our home. It is fun to watch each entryway fill with Christmas cards. We just tape them up, but you can just as easily put a hole through each card with your hole puncher, slide a string through the hole, and hang them up anywhere in your house.

3. After we finish using our Christmas cards as decorations, we take them down and place them in a basket. The basket is then set in the middle of the dining room table. Each night at dinner we take a card out of the basket and pray for the family that sent us the card. Every family needs prayer, and what better way to thank your family for thinking of you at Christmas time than to pray for them. We get over 80 cards per year, and by using one card per night we can keep the cards around until March.

4. Finally, we use our Christmas cards in our scrapbooks. Christmas cards have creative greetings and warm wishes that you can cut out and paste with your pictures. You can also clip out the awesome Christmas scenes or Christmas characters to use with the Christmas pages of your scrapbook. One year I did a scrap booking Bible Study. The page of Thankfulness I did entirely with my Christmas cards. I was thankful for my family and friends who had taken the time to think of us that year.

There is no end to what you can do with your Christmas cards if you put some thought into it. Go ahead and be creative. You may be surprised to see where it leads you.

This article was previously posted on the Yahoo Contributor Network.

5 Celebrities Who Hire Family Members To Care For Their Children

3/29/2016

by Alicia Bodine, Contributing Writer

While many celebrities hire professional nannies to care for their children, several have turned to family members for this service. Not only are family members more likely to bond with the children, but there is no need to implement background checks or go through the daunting task of trying to find a stranger that the celebrity would be willing to trust with his or her child. Below is a list of five celebrities who have made the choice to turn a family member into a caregiver for their child.

Jessica Alba

According to Radar Online, Jessica Alba has chosen to employ two of her cousins to care for daughters Honor and Haven. Jessica is currently married to Cash Warren, and in addition to being a well-known actress, she also runs The Honest Company, a line of eco-friendly products that parents can feel good about using on their babies.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez is a proud mom to twins Max and Emme, whom she had with ex-husband Marc Anthony. I don't think there is anything that Jennifer Lopez doesn't do with dancing, singing, acting, writing, and fashion designing as just a few of the titles to her credit. Jennifer also works as executive producer on the television show The Fosters. With so many hats to wear, Jennifer requires help raising her children. That's where mom, Guadalupe, steps in to offer assistance. Guadalupe lives with Jennifer and the kids providing help when needed.

Mayim Bialik

As one of the stars of the popular series The Big Bang Theory, Mayim Bialik is quite busy. As the mother of two boys, Miles and Frederick, relies on her ex-husband Michael Stone to care for the boys while she is working.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila Alves have a total of three children, Levi, Vida, and Livingston, raising all of them without the help of a nanny. Just like Jennifer Lopez, the couple had Camila's mother move into their home to help care for the children when they are working. Matthew continues to work as a busy actor, while Camila continues to work as a model.

Kimberly Williams-Paisley

Many will remember Kimberly Williams (now Paisley) as Steve Martin's daughter in Father of the Bride. These days Kimberly is married to country music star Brad Paisley and the pair have two children, Huck and Jasper. The couple follows the "It takes a village to raise a child" motto by recruiting help from both of their moms, as well as several family friends.

Indications Your Newborn Has Gas Pains

3/27/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Newborns can have the tendency to get gas pains and there are some signs parents should be aware of. Paying attention to your baby's actions and cries can help aid in determining if your newborn is experiencing gas pains. As a mother and former nanny, I have had plenty of varied experiences related to newborn gas pains. I have also researched the topic extensively over the years.

When a newborn has gas pains, the sooner a parent figures this out, the better for the newborn. This way, steps can be taken to relieve the gas and hopefully alleviate the pain. It isn't always easy, especially for a new parent, to determine which symptoms are indications a newborn has gas pains. The information below is not meant to be a complete diagnostic guide, but may help parents find some of the answers they need.

Crying

Not all crying is an indication of gas or gas pains. Because newborn babies cannot talk, crying is the most common form of communication for a variety of their needs. They will learn to use it as a means of communication. Generally, sharp and piercing cries will indicate pain, but not all babies are the same. If you notice such a cry after feeding, this may be one of the varied indications your newborn has gas pains.

Crankiness

A baby can be cranky for several reasons. Before deciding it's one of the indications your newborn has gas pains, consider other reasons. Is the baby sleepy, hungry, or in need of a diaper change? Does the baby want to be held, swaddled, or given a pacifier? If none of those apply and the crankiness cannot be soothed with conventional methods, your newborn may have gas pains.

Movements

Pay attention to your baby's movements. Some newborns will draw their legs in toward the chest and then push them straight out when gas pains are present. Although, some infants do this for other reasons as well. Another common movement that may be related to gas pains is clenched fists. If your baby is doing one or both, these are possible indications your newborn has gas pains.

Feeding Habits

When newborns are experiencing gas pains, they may refuse the breast or bottle. Refusing to feed does not always indicate gas pains, but it can. The baby may also just be tired, not hungry, or need to burp but is not necessarily in pain.

Sleep Habits

If a baby is having a tough time sleeping, it may be one indicator of gas pains. But, babies can remain awake for a variety of reasons. Pay attention to other cues, like those above as well.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Diarrhea in a Newborn Baby: Warnings, Treatment, Care, & More

3/11/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Whether breastfed or formula fed, infants can unfortunately get diarrhea and it can be especially dangerous to newborns. Read further to learn how to tell whether your newborn's stool is diarrhea or not and when to take a newborn with diarrhea to the pediatrician.

Check Your Newborn Baby’s Stool

The stool of a newborn infant is generally fairly soft. This does not always indicate diarrhea. Newborn diarrhea will be thin and watery. Also watch a newborn's wetting habits. If a newborn normally wets 8-12 diapers per day and is only wetting 6-8 (or less), that is an indicator that diarrhea is causing dehydration.

How Can I Hydrate My Newborn?

A newborn with diarrhea can be treated at home to prevent dehydration, but a pediatrician must still be contacted. Diarrhea can cause loss of vital fluids. Pedialyte (or another oral electrolyte solution) is often recommended by doctors when babies and toddlers are dehydrated. This can help replace the fluids that may be lost during diarrhea. In newborns, the doctor may instead suggest an increase in breastmilk or formula feedings.

When Should the Diarrhea Clear Up?

Mild diarrhea should clear up within a day or so. But if a newborn shows any signs of dehydration, illness, severe diarrhea, or has a fever, do not hesitate to seek medical care. Diarrhea can sometimes be an indication of a virus or bacterial infection. A viral infection is more common than a bacterial infection when it comes to diarrhea causes. Another cause may be parasites.

What Causes Diarrhea in a Newborn Baby?

When the newborn diarrhea is not caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite, it may be caused by the infant's diet. Fruit juice and any diet other than infant formula or breastmilk can cause newborn diarrhea. Until at least 4 months of age, newborn babies should be fed only breastmilk or infant formula.

Lactose intolerance or other dietary allergies may also cause newborn diarrhea. In an infant who is drinking formula, a pediatrician may recommend switching to a different formula to see if that helps. Never switch infant formulas without the advice of a pediatrician. Babies have very sensitive stomachs and individual dietary needs. Switching formula could upset the baby's digestive system even further. A breastfeeding mom may need to change her own dietary habits for the infant’s benefit.

If your newborn is taking antibiotics for any reason, that could also be the cause of diarrhea. Sometimes antibiotics will cause newborn diarrhea. If this happens, contact the pediatrician. They may decide to use another antibiotic if the diarrhea is severe.

When Should I Take My Newborn to the Doctor for Diarrhea?

Newborns are very delicate and vulnerable. If your newborn has diarrhea, you need to contact your pediatrician right away. A newborn can get dehydrated very easily with diarrhea and this is hazardous to your infant’s health and well-being. Diarrhea can also be symptoms of bigger issues. It may be a simple dietary issue, but only a licensed medical professional should make that diagnosis.

Warning Signs That May Occur With Newborn Diarrhea

blood in newborn's stool
fever
vomiting
more than 8 stools in 24 hours
abnormal/sick-like behavior
dehydration

Symptoms of Dehydration in Newborns

decrease in number of wet diapers in a 24 hour period
dry mouth
dry crying (no tears during crying)
circles around eyes/sunken eyes

*Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Newborn Gift Guide: Soy-Based Baby Products

3/8/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Whether it’s for natural care reasons or health care benefits, parents may request soy-based baby gifts for their newborn. Know an expectant parent who is into natural care, being eco-friendly, or who has an infant with lactose intolerance? This gift guide to soy-based baby products may help you decide what gift is best. As a mom who's into natural living and researching new things all the time, I've come across a variety of potentially useful products.

Soybean Fiber Baby Clothes

For the eco-friendly mom or dad, there are companies who make baby clothing out of soybean protein fibers. These baby clothes are eco-friendly, all-natural, and can by quite stylish too. Baby clothing made from soybean fibers is very soft to the touch and makes great soy-based gifts for newborns.

Baby Soap Enriched With Soy Proteins

Many natural organic soaps are made with protein oils, such as soybean oil. Soy proteins are great for the skin. As long as Baby isn't allergic to soy, baby soap enriched with soy proteins would be an appreciated gift for newborns. If you feel like being creative, you may even want to look up a recipe and make homemade soap using soybean oil and other ingredients.

Soy Baby Formula

If the newborn you are buying a gift for is lactose intolerant or requires soy baby formula for another reason, this could be a good gift idea. The best newborn baby gifts are those that will actually get used. Baby formula does not exactly sound like a pretty or fancy gift, but it's definitely useful. Formula prices can be costly to some, so soy baby formula could be a well-appreciated gift for newborns who can use it.

Soybean Crib Mattress

Did you know that soybean fibers can be used to make a crib mattress? Mattress foam made from soy fibers is said to reduce sagging and increase durability in infant mattresses. This could add to the firm support required for newborns. Since soybeans are a renewable resource, this likely is a more earth-friendly purchase than other mattresses. As long as the baby's parent/s don't already have a mattress, a soybean crib mattress could make a great soy-based gift for newborns.

Homemade Soybean Puree

If you like to cook, you could try making homemade soybean puree baby food and freezing it to make a parent's job easier a few months down the line. Keep in mind that frozen baby food should not be kept frozen too long. Three months is a general time limit, but it could keep longer (or for less time) depending on the freezing and storage method. Another option is to gather some great baby food recipes involving soybeans and assemble them in a homemade recipe book made from recycled papers.

**Author’s Note: Not all experts agree on the health benefits of soy, so it's best to know the family's stance on this before giving a soy-based newborn baby gift. The author is not a licensed medical professional. Always consult a licensed physician for health matters.

Newborn Baby Care Tips (Simple Guide to the First Days of Your Infant's Life)

1/26/2016

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

After giving birth, you can expect to feel a variety of emotions, such as relief and joy. Along with that joy might come questions of what to expect, as well as how to care for your infant. Below are some newborn baby care tips that should help you care for your baby and relieve concerns and experiences you might encounter.

Feeding Your Newborn Baby

The decision to breastfeed or bottle feed your infant will be one of the very first decisions you will have to make as a mother. This decision should be made very soon after the baby is born so that he or she can feed. When making this decision, consider which option is best for the health of both you and your baby. Our Newborn Feeding Guide For New Moms might help.

Newborn Baby Sleeping Schedule

Newborn infants will be sleeping the majority of the time. This is completely normal. However, if your newborn baby is not sleeping much, that could be cause for concern. Newborn babies will not sleep through the night and should not be expected to, as they need to feed often. If you are concerned about your newborn’s sleep habits, always ask the doctors in the hospital before discharge (or your baby’s pediatrician afterward).

Diapering

Diapering might be confusing at first, especially for those who have never changed a diaper before. Choosing between cloth and disposables is one of several things you may be pondering. You also might need to know exactly how to change a diaper, including how often to do so. There might also be concerns as to what a baby's stool should look like or whether or not to use any rash creams or powders. You can expect the doctors to instruct you about these subjects or refer you to the free classes in the hospital. Either will be very beneficial.

Visitors

Some mothers may enjoy having visitors after birth, while others may not want to be bothered by anyone but another parent of the baby. Whatever your decision, be sure to make it clear before giving birth. That way, you don’t have the stress of unwanted visitors at the hospital.

Pacifiers

Pacifiers have proven to decrease the risk of SIDS. They should be given to an infant shortly after birth. It can be helpful to bring more than one type of pacifier to the hospital, in case your baby does not prefer those offered in the hospital. You should expect the doctors to discuss pacifier use with you.

Congestion
If your baby is congested, be sure to mention it to the doctors right away, as it could be a sign of RSV, a very serious illness, especially in infants. Preemies are the most at risk for this, but any infant can develop RSV. Always immediately inform the doctor of any congestion in your infant.

Fever

Infants rarely get a fever. A fever could be a sign of infection, especially RSV. Inform the doctor right away if your baby has a fever. Since you will still be in the hospital, the doctors may even discover the fever before you do. It is routine for the doctors to keep track of a newborn's temperature.

Lanugo

Lanugo is thick hair in places on the infant you wouldn't normally see hair. This will disappear over time.

Jaundice

Jaundice is when the baby's skin is yellow in color. This can be a sign of infection. If you notice jaundice, tell the doctors right away.

More From Lyn:
How To Help A Newborn Poop
Caring For Sensitive Baby Skin
5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant
How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby’s Vomiting?
Cure Baby Diaper Rash Quickly and Naturally

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Newborn Gift Guide: Soy-Based Baby Products

Newborn Baby Care Tips (Simple Guide to the First Days of Your Infant's Life)

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