Infant Swimming Lessons: Should You or Shouldn’t You?

Posted on May 17, 2012 by Amber Page

For as long as there have been Mommy & Me infant swimming classes advertised at public pools, parents have wondered: is teaching your baby to swim a good idea?

And for many years, the answer, at least according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), was no. The organization was firmly against them, stating that kids simply weren’t developmentally ready for swimming lessons until they were at least four.

But in 2010, the AAP reversed its decision. Citing two studies that supported the benefits of swim lessons for young children, it said that if parents felt their toddlers were ready, they should feel free to enroll them.

However, they’re still against lessons for babies younger than 12 months, saying that there’s no proof that such classes do any good.

But not everyone agrees. In fact, there’s a growing contingent of parents who say that infant swimming lessons may have saved their child’s life.

A number of bloggers, including Home is Where the Dog Is, credit a program called Infant Swimming Resource with teaching their small children to save themselves.

In a recent post about her one-year-old daughter’s recent fall into the water, she says,
“Cue my scream. I was a good 40 feet away, and the Workaholic was 5. In the 1 or 2 seconds it took him to leap off the pier and into water up to his chest, something incredible and magical and fantastic happened. She floated. SHE FRIGGIN’ FLOATED.”

The program, which is rather time-intensive and not yet nationwide, doesn’t claim to teach infants to swim. Only to hold their breath and flip onto their backs so they don’t drown.

The AAP hasn’t commented on their approach.

So, should you enroll your little one in infant swimming lessons? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. As with so much in parenting, it seems best to go with your gut. If going through some sort of infant swim program would ease your mind, well, maybe you should. But there’s no scientifically-supported proof that it will work.

No matter what you decide, remember to abide by the AAP’s water safety rules. After all, nothing works harder to keep your baby safe than your watchful eye.

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Five Memorable Ways to Spend Mother’s Day with Your Baby

Posted on May 1, 2012 by Amber Page

If you believe the commercials on TV, Mother’s Day is solely about fancy brunches, elegantly wrapped gifts and doting families waiting on mom hand and foot.

But with a young child underfoot, your day is unlikely to be TV-ready. Still, there are tons of memorable ways to celebrate Mother’s Day, even when your child is too young to say “mama.”

1. Forget the fancy Mother’s Day brunch. Have a picnic instead. Who wants to worry about impending tantrums or food-throwing toddlers on Mother’s Day? Pack up a basket full of delicious, kid-friendly finger foods (or better yet, have your partner do it for you), and head for the great outdoors. You can still have a delicious meal, with none of the fretfulness!

2. Grab your baby and make your own mommy’s day gift. Who cares if your little one is too small to pick out a gift? Grab a handprint or footprint making kit and get messy together! You’ll end up with a precious imprint of those fingers and toes – and even better, a whole lot of memories of making them.

3. Who needs a bouquet when you can plant a tradition? Go to your local garden nursery and pick out a tree to commemorate this very special Mother’s Day. Plant it together (even the smallest baby can throw dirt around) and make caring for it a family event. It’s a great way to keep the spirit of Mother’s Day alive all year long – and a beautiful symbol of your growing family that will last forever.

4. Snap a family portrait. Too often, moms are the ones taking the pictures instead of posing for them. So get a tripod with a timer (or better yet, a professional photographer), and get an official family picture. Make it an annual event, and someday you’ll have a photographic timeline of the changes in your family!

5.Take a nap. Seriously. Young moms never take enough time for themselves. Don’t be afraid to use this special day to catch up on some alone time. Read a book, take a snooze, go get a manicure…do whatever it takes to feel like, well, you again!

Of course, there are lots of ways you can celebrate Mother’s Day. All that matters is that it makes you happy. What are some of the things you’re looking forward to this Mother’s Day?

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5 Spring Trends for Nursing Moms

Posted on April 16, 2012 by Amber Page

When you’re nursing a baby ( especially while you’re still in the up-all-night stage), it can be tough to summon the energy to get dressed, never mind put together a stylish outfit.
But you should. When you look in the mirror and see a semblance of your old self staring back at you, you’ll feel a lot better about your postpartum body – and maybe even a little more capable of dealing with the world around you.

Fortunately, there are tons of easy ways to make this spring’s trends work – even while you’re nursing. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Colored Denim. Color, and lots of it, is everywhere this spring – even in the denim aisle! This trend is a good one for nursing moms, because it focuses attention on your bottom half – away from any postpartum belly issues. Try these gorgeous yellow jeans from Macy’s: link to: http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/else-jeans-skinny-colored-denim-yellow-wash?ID=649233&cm_mmc=Google_Feed_pla_pe-_-adtype-pla-_-target-19586772875-_-kw-&gclid=CKDXwJfAt68CFeUEQAod70dRjA).

2. Wild Prints. Big, bold prints are popping up on everything from skirts to shirts. Make it work for you by choosing a top or dress with a peasant, V or cowl neck, like this one at JC Penney: http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/april/spring-into-easter/women/bisoubisou%25c2%25aesmockedpeasanttop/prod.jump?ppId=1ddf347&catId=cat100210006&deptId=dept20000013&selectedLotId=8234320&selectedSKUId=82343200117&catId=SearchResults).

3. Peplums. Yep, peplums. The fashion world is embracing the peplum, and there’s no reason you shouldn’t follow suit. An easy way to wear this trend while you’re nursing is to choose a floaty peplum blouse, like this one at Anthropologie: link to: http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/clothes-blouses-shells/24391799.jsp

4. Black and white stripes. You might think that stripes are a trend you should stay away from while fighting that post-baby weight, but it can be surprisingly flattering. And since they’re adorning lots of pretty, un-fussy dresses this season, those stripes can make getting dressed a breeze. Try this one, from Modcloth: link to: http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/got-it-parade-dress-in-black

5. The high-low skirt. This trend started last year, and it’s still going strong. A high-low skirt is simply a skirt with a hemline that’s longer in the back than it is in the front. They’re great for moms with babies, because the longer length in back means there will be no bottom-baring when you bend down to scoop up your little one. Plus, they put all the attention on your legs! Try this one from Forever 21:
link: http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?category=BTMs&ProductID=2000036033&utm_source=google&utm_medium=base&utm_campaign=product_feed&gclid=CI7dqr3Tgq8CFYuK4Aod4hwD4Q

Incorporate some of these easy, breezy styles into your spring wardrobe, and soon you’ll be feeling like a million bucks – or at least a little less frumpy than you do right now.

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Five Easter Ideas for Your Baby

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Amber Page

Finding Easter ideas for your baby can be tough. You want to celebrate this special time with your little one, but the days of Easter egg hunts and Easter baskets filled with chocolate are still a ways off.

But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to get even the smallest infants involved in Easter.

1. Get your baby dolled up in an Easter outfit and go see the Easter bunny. Your little one won’t remember his or her first trip to see the Easter bunny, but the pictures you’ll get will be priceless!

2. Make a baby-friendly Easter basket. Chocolate and jelly beans are out, but there are still plenty of ways to fill an Easter basket. Purchase some Easter-themed stuffed animals, rattles and other baby friendly toys, add a few onesies or T-shirts snd you’ll have a basket to remember.

3. Find ways to include your baby in the Easter egg hunt. While your little one is too small to participate, you can hide small plush toys or rattling Easter eggs, and help her to “find” them as you carry her around the yard.

4. Don’t be afraid to take your baby to Easter service. Taking a baby to church can be a harrowing experience, it’s true. But if worshipping as a family is important to you, bring your infant with you. You can always step outside if your little one gets too loud.

5. Include your baby in Easter dinner. If your baby has started solid foods, make sure there are dishes you can share. Potatoes, jello and other easily mashed foods are good choices. You can even put the ham in the blender, if you choose!

Follow these guidelines, and your baby will have an Easter to remember! What ideas do you have for celebrating Easter with a little one?

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Three Ways To Make New Mom Friends.

Posted on March 27, 2012 by Amber Page

Motherhood is beautiful, life changing experience. But it can also be quite lonely—especially if you don’t have a network of mom friends to fall back on.

Fortunately, there are plenty of other women out there just like you. Moms with infants and young children looking for a little adult conversation and commiseration—and some new friends to call their own.

The trick is finding them. Fortunately it’s not as hard as you think!

To make new mom friends, go where the moms go.
If you haven’t already, scope out a nearby park or two. Chances are, if there is a decent playground, you’ll find other moms there with their little ones at almost any time of day.

And you know what? They’re almost always happy to chat. Just smile at someone, ask her how old her child is, and before you know it, you’ll be deep in conversation!

Other likely spots to find moms include libraries, bookstore story hours and heck, even Target.

Join a mom’s group and gain an instant network of mom friends!
Mom’s Groups are networking groups for moms, by moms. Generally, they schedule a variety of events ranging from play dates to girl’s nights out, and all members are welcome to join. Fees are usually nominal, although you will probably be expected to host an event on a rotating basis.

To find one, visit Meetup.com or the Mom’s Club site.

Find mom friends at fitness or enrichment classes
Just about every mom finds herself longing for some alone time. Many moms find it by signing up for a fitness class like yoga or Zumba, or even taking a cooking or art class.

Check out the offerings through your local YMCA or parks and recreation department. If something appeals to you, then take a risk and register! At best, you’ll find some like-minded moms. And at worst, you’ll get some much-needed time to yourself!

Of course, these are just a few of the ways you can find new mom friends. Please share your best ideas in the comments!

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Top 3 teething myths busted!

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Amber Page

When you find yourself confronted with a fussy, drooling mess of a baby, your first instinct is probably to blame teething. But the truth is, a lot of the things you think are symptoms of teething are anything but!

Here are some of the top myths about teething—and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Teething causes fevers.

This one is partially true. The American Academy of Pediatrics has found that teething can cause slight fevers. However, anything above 101 degrees Fahrenheit is a sign of a bacterial or viral infection, not teething.

Myth #2: Teething causes diarrhea.

This is another really pervasive myth, but studies have found no evidence to support it. If your baby seems to be abnormally runny, you might want to blame another one of those infections. If your baby is shying away from solid foods, the loose stools could also be caused by a return to a liquid-based diet.

Myth #3: Teething causes a runny nose.

This one’s totally bogus. However, the stress of getting the new tooth can compromise a baby’s immune system, making your little one more likely to get a cold or ear infection, leading to that runny nose.

Teething can be a miserable experience, no doubt about it. But before blaming your baby’s symptoms on teething, dig a little deeper. Your little one’s discomfort could be something a doctor can fix!

References:
American Academy of Pediatrics
Babycenter.com

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Ten Things To Do With Your Baby This Winter

Posted on January 3, 2012 by Amber Page

When the thermometer plummets, finding fun things to do with your baby can be challenging. To help get you started, here are ten ideas for wintertime fun both you and your baby can share.

Outdoor Activities For You and Your Baby

Although it will be at least a couple of years until your little one is ready for winter sports, all but the smallest infants can benefit from a little fresh air in the winter. Just bundle up and keep trips to the great outdoors short.

1. Go “sledding.” Not downhill, of course. But your baby can enjoy a gentle ride around the flat surface of your yard.
2. Give your baby some snow to play with. It’s cold, it’s sparkly, it’s a million kinds of fun!
3. Show off the winter wonderland. Snow-covered trees and dangling icicles might be old hat to you, but they’re never before seen wonders to your baby. Take a short walk around the neighborhood and watch the smiles blossom.

Things To Do With Your Baby Inside

Too cold to go outside? Never fear. There’s plenty to do inside.

4. Make a sandbox. Fill a shallow plastic storage bin with a little play sand, get out a couple of measuring cups, and let your little one at it!
5. Have fun with shaving cream. For messy fun, empty a big mound of shaving cream in front of your baby and let him go nuts!
6. Bake together. If your baby can wield a spoon, she’s ready to help you in the kitchen. Let your kiddo mix dough, frost cupcakes or decorate cookies.
7. Make music. Common household items can easily become musical instruments. Fill a sippy cup with dried beans to shake. Turn an oatmeal container upside down to make a drum. Turn a paper towel roll into a horn. When you look around, opportunities for music are everywhere!

Getting Out With Your Baby.

No matter how much you love your baby, eventually you’ll start craving the company of others. But don’t worry. There are plenty of places to go!

8. Your local library. Most libraries have special story hours and other activities for little ones.
9. Indoor play areas. Most metropolitan areas have indoor playgrounds featuring baby-friendly activities and equipment. And, if all else fails, your local mall is almost guaranteed to have a play area.
10. Mommy Groups. Join a local mom’s group and in no time, you’ll have a slew of options for play dates and other wintertime fun.

These are just a few ideas, but if you look around, opportunities for fun are everywhere! What are your favorite things to do with your baby in the wintertime?

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Kourtney Kardashian’s Pregnant: December’s Round Up of Pregnant Celebrities.

Posted on December 7, 2011 by Amber Page


Kourtney KardashianCelebrities. Whether you love them or hate them, you can’t help but be fascinated by their lives. And when a celeb announces she’s pregnant? It’s always big news.

Read on for the latest gossip about pregnant celebrities.

Kourtney Kardashian made a splash when she announced her pregnancy on Nov. 30. Although she’s only nine weeks along, she reportedly felt “confident” it was safe to go public. This will be her second child with her long-term (but off and on) love, Scott Disick. Their first son, Mason, was born last December (photo courtesy of AdRants).

Maggie Gyllenhaal shared her latest pregnancy news over the Thanksgiving weekend. The 34-year-old actress revealed that she is, in fact, six months pregnant with her second child. Maggie and her husband Peter Sarsgaard are already parents to Ramona, their five-year-old daughter (Photo courtesy of Capital M).

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Maggie Gyllenhaal, Photo courtesy of Capital M


Jessica Simpson’s pregnancy announcement was no Halloween trick! Although she chose to make her pregnancy public while dressed up in a mummy costume, she is now quite visibly pregnant! This will be the first child for both Jessica and her fiance Eric Johnson (Photo courtesy of Simplistic Designs).
Jessica Simpson

Jessica Simpson, Photo courtesy of Simplistic Designs

Beyonce Knowles is glad to be in her last trimester. Due in February, Beyonce is looking forward to starting her career as mom. For now, though, she and husband Jay Z are enjoying their last holiday season alone (photo courtesy of Tiny Glimpses).

Beyonce

Beyonce Knowles, photo courtesy of Tiny Glimpses

Everyone’s favorite former teen star, Hillary Duff, is having a boy! The 24-year-old singer and actress announced her pregnancy last August, on the first anniversary of her wedding to hockey player Mike Comrie. Baby Comrie is scheduled to make his appearance in early 2012 (Photo courtesy of David Shankbone).

Hillary Duff

Hillary Duff, Photo courtesy of David Shankbone


Who will sport a new baby bump in 2012? Stay tuned to find out!

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Holiday Survival Tips: Top 5 Tips For Traveling With A Baby

Posted on November 29, 2011 by Amber Page

Traveling with a baby during the holidays can be tough. But with a little planning (and a lot of patience), you can make the experience a good one—no matter how far afield your holiday travel plans take you!

Below are five tips to make traveling with your baby stress-free.

1. If you’re flying with your baby, bring more breast milk, formula and snacks than you think you need. You never know when you’re going to be delayed—and it’s better to have too much than not enough. And don’t worry, you can carry more than the standard three ounces of breast milk or formula through airport security. Just make sure to pack it separately from your other gels and liquids (a soft-sided cooler works nicely), and present it to TSA officials for scanning at check-in.

2. If you’re staying in a hotel, consider getting a suite or connecting rooms to make nap and bedtimes easier. It might cost a little more, but a well-rested, happy baby could be worth the extra expense.

3. Unpack as soon as you get to your destination. Whether you’re settling in at a hotel or staying with family, set up designated areas for sleeping, changing and playing. Your baby will feel more comfortable when surrounded with familiar things, and you’ll feel far more organized!

4. Stick to your baby’s normal schedule as much as possible. If you can avoid it, don’t make your baby adjust to a new time zone. It’s better to ignore the time difference if it’s only an hour or two. Your baby will be much happier!

5. Practice strategic napping. Chances are, you won’t always be able to lay your baby down for a nap in his or her crib. But that doesn’t mean napping can’t happen! When out and about, try wearing your baby at nap time. You could also take a walk (with stroller in tow), or plan to be in the car. The motion of driving has been known to send many a fussy tot off to dreamland!

Most of important of all? Be prepared to give it a little time. It will take a few days for your baby to settle in to the new environment. You might have a couple of sleepless nights, but if you can power through it, you’ll be rewarded with a happy baby—and a great holiday travel experience.

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Teething 101

Posted on November 15, 2011 by Amber Page

Teething: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

 Is there anything cuter than the sight of a single tooth poking through a baby’s gummy smile? Certainly not much.

 Unfortunately, the process of getting to that frame-worthy moment can be a miserable experience. But with a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can minimize the discomfort your little one feels—and keep yourself sane.

 Step 1: Recognize the symptoms of teething.

 Teething has been blamed for everything from high fevers to diarrhea. But, in truth, there are only a few symptoms that can be traced directly back to teething.

 Teething symptoms include:

  • Drooling
  • Crankiness (sometimes expressed through clinginess)
  • Sleep issues
  • Food refusal
  • Biting
  • Swollen gums

 Any other health issues you notice are probably due to a cold or other illness. The stress of teething can make babies more vulnerable to other infections.

 Step 2: Help your baby cope with teething discomfort.

 Chances are, the sight of your baby crying and in pain makes your own heart twist into knots. But rather than get upset, focus on the things you can do to help.

 Strategies for coping include:

  • Give your munchkin something cold to chew on. Your baby’s gums are swollen and sore. Mouthing on something cold can help bring down the swelling and make them feel better. Try a cold washcloth, or better yet, your Momma’s Jewels necklace. The naturally cool silver surface never fails to soothe.
  • Try teething tablets or homeopathic numbing gels. Many parents rely on these over-the-counter solutions to temporarily ease the pain of teething. It’s always best to check with your doctor first, though.
  • Feed older babies a teething biscuit. These hard cookie-type objects give them something to chew on—and sneak in a little nutrition, too!
  • If all else fails, a small amount of children’s pain reliever might be appropriate. But again, ask your doctor first.

 Step 3: Relax.

 Remember, as with all things baby-related, this too shall pass. Keep breathing, stay calm and get rest whenever you can.  It will be over before you know it!

 Have any other copy strategies to share? Let us know in the comments!

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