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2008-04-21

Can we choose our baby's sex?

Can we choose our baby's sex?
by Dr. HAV Monirath
In this era of advanced technology, there are various methods which we can use to determine our baby sex beforehand. Most high-tech methods are very expensive or/and invasive. Being a citizen and a Medical Doctor in a developing country like Cambodia, and as a result of some research and discussion with my professors, i personally suggest The Shettles method ( by Dr. Shettles ).SHETTLES METHODSBasically, men produce two types of sperms, the X (female) and Y (male). According to Dr. Shettles' studies the y-sperms are smaller, weaker, but faster than their siblings x-sperms, which are bigger, stronger, but slower.Based on this fact, there are several things you can do to "favor" the conception of boys or girls:(1) The most important aspect of all is timing of intercourse during the monthly cycle. The closer to ovulation you have sex, the better the chances to have a boy, because the y-sperms are faster and tend to get to the egg first. If you have sex 3 days or more before ovulation, the better your chances to conceive a girl, because the weaker y-sperms tend to die sooner and the x-sperms will be available in greater quantity whenever the egg is released. On the other hand, having sex from 2 days before ovulation, through a few days after ovulation, is better for conceiving a boy. Around the 2-day point -- 48 hours before ovulation -- seems to be the 50/50 mark.(2) The pH of the women's tract is also very important. A more acidic environment favors girls, since it will kill the weaker y-sperms first, leaving a greater quantity of x-sperms available to fertilize the egg. On the other hand, a more alkaline environment favors boys. Shettles recommends a douche of water and vinegar (acid) immediately before intercourse to favor a girl; a douche of water and baking soda (alkaline) will help for a boy.(Don't try this without reading Shettles! You have to dilute the douches properly, according to his formula, or they won't help and might hurt you.)Note: Some women are naturally very acidic and have a hard time conceiving boys.(3) Position of intercourse and depth of penetration are important, partly because of pH. The closer to the entrance to the vagina, the more acidic the women's tract is. Also, deep penetration places the sperm closer to the egg, and gives those aggressive boy sperms a head start :-). So, a shallow penetration will favor girls and a deeper will favor boys. Shettles recommends missionary-position for a girl, and rear-entry (dog-style) for a boy.(4) Women's orgasms can also be important. It also has to do with pH. When a woman has an orgasm, the body releases some kind of substance that makes the environment more alkaline, favoring boys. He recommends no orgasms when trying for girls!(5) The sperm count is another factor. Obviously, a low sperm count to begin with doesn't favor either sex. But a high sperm count favors boys. Shettles recommends three things:(a) When trying for a boy, don't have sex for 3- 4 days before you reach the target date a day or two before ovulation! For girls, have sex everyday from day=1 or day=5 ("cleaner" :-)), and stop 3 days before ovulation.(b) Shettles recommends that for boys, the man wear loose underwear only -- that is, men who usually wear briefs or other tight underwear should switch to boxers. The idea is the same as wearing boxers to increase overall fertility -- the testicles need cooler temperatures for sperms to survive, and the Y-sperms, since they are weaker, will be helped more than the X-sperms by this method. However, Shettles does NOT recommend the opposite, that men wear briefs for a girl -- this will just decrease overall fertility.(c) Also, for a girl, the man is supposed to take a hot bath immediately before intercourse. "Room temperature" is fine for a boy. The idea is the same as the briefs versus boxers -- give the X- sperms an advantage.(6) Finally, in trying for a boy, Shettles recommends a nice cup of caffeinated coffee for the man, right before sex -- he isn't clear on how or why this works, but apparently it gives the Y-sperms a jolt!Summary of the methodFor baby girl:- Have sex 3 days or more before ovulation - Position of intercourse: Missionary - No women's orgasm - Related to sperm count, have sex everyday and stop 3 days before ovulation - Right before sex, the woman should bathe in a solution mixed by vinegar and water and the man should bathe in hot water to kill the Y sperm and favour X spermFor baby boy:- Have sex close to ovulation (less than 2 days) - Position of intercourse: rear entry or Dog-style - Women's orgasm - Related to sperm count, when trying for a boy, don't have sex for 3- 4 days before you reach the target date (a day or two before ovulation) - Right before sex, the woman should bathe in a solution mixed by water and baking soda and the man should bathe in cool water to favour Y spermMy own comments:Until now, there has not yet been any scientific proof and recognition of the most effective methods in determining baby's sex before conception. However, these SHETTLES methods seem to be the most reasonably accepted by medical professionals. And, most importantly, these methods do not cause any harm of waste of money, so why not give them a try?

Changing Your Baby's Diaper

Changing Your Baby's Diaper
by Andrew Ashworth
There are many different brands and types of disposable and cloth diapers. No matter which type you use, change them as soon as they are wet or soiled to avoid diaper rash. If you use cloth diapers, you might want to try diaper wraps, which are pieces of fabric shaped like disposable diapers that fit over a cloth diaper. Diaper wraps fasten with plastic hook and loop closures, eliminating the need for pins and rubber pants. Although most cloth diapers are pre-folded, you may need to fold them more to fit your newborn. Put the extra fabric in front for a boy, in back for a girl.You can hire a diaper service to launder your baby's soiled cloth diapers. If you wash them yourself, launder them separately from your other laundry in hot water with a mild detergent and rinse them twice. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the last rinse cycle to help neutralize the ammonia in the baby's urine. Don't use fabric softeners or antistatic products because they can cause rashes. The time you spend changing diapers can be a chance to play with your baby. Talk to him or her, sing, play peek-a-boo, and exercise his or her arms and legs. While you are diapering your baby, keep one hand on him or her at all times and never turn your back on your baby-even for a second. A newborn can roll over and fall off a bed or changing table and be seriously injured. Use a changing table with a restraining strap, or simply change your baby on the floor.Get in the habit of washing your hands before and after changing diapers. Assemble everything you need before you start. You'll need a clean diaper; a soft, wet washcloth or a container of baby wipes; petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide cream; a dry towel; and, possibly, a change of clothing. Some babies are sensitive to baby wipes; if they produce any irritation on your baby's skin, stop using them. (Don't use talcum or baby powder that contains talc because your baby could breathe in particles of powder and develop upper respiratory problems. If you wish to use cornstarch or baby powder without talc, use a small amount and apply by hand to minimize inhalation). You'll quickly develop your own diapering techniques but here are some basic steps:If you're changing your baby on a surface other than a changing table, put down a protective towel, cloth diaper, or changing mat. Unfasten the diaper and, holding the baby's feet together with a finger in between the feet to keep the ankles from chafing, lift up the feet as you fold the soiled part of the diaper in on itself with your other hand. Set the soiled diaper aside. Still holding the baby's feet, use a wet washcloth or baby wipe to gently clean your baby's bottom, around the genitals, in the skin folds on his or her thighs, and between the buttocks. Always wipe from front to back for girls to keep bacteria away from the urethra. Gently pat the diaper area dry with a small towel and let it air dry completely. If your baby has a rash, expose the rash to the air as long as possible, and then apply petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide cream to the area. Hold you baby's feet together again and pull his or her bottom up as you place the diaper underneath. Finally, bring the bottom half of the diaper up between the baby's legs and fasten it in front.

Bottle Feeding Your Child

Bottle Feeding Your Child
by Andrew Ashworth
Breast-feeding is not for everyone. If you can't breast-feed or choose not to (for example, if you take certain medications or develop a severe breast infection), a variety of nutritious formulas are available. Infant formulas are designed to resemble the nutritional content of breast milk as closely as possible. Ask your pediatrician which formula he or she recommends. Bottle-feeding has several advantages. It frees the mother from her baby; other family members, especially dad, get a chance to be more involved with feeding. With a bottle, you know exactly how much your baby is taking at each feeding. A bottle-fed baby still gets the needed cuddling and closeness at mealtime. But avoid propping the bottle up so you won't have to hold your baby during a feeding. You will deny yourself and your baby important opportunities for closeness and bonding. Propping a bottle can also increase a baby's risk of choking and make him or her more susceptible to ear infections.Your doctor will probably recommend a formula based on cow's milk, fortified with iron, and that comes in a powder or liquid concentrate that you mix with water or in a ready-to-feed form. Babies under 1 year of age should not get regular cow's milk because the unprocessed protein it contains is hard to digest and the high protein and salt content can strain immature kidneys. All types of formula are basically the same in nutritional content; they differ only in price. The most convenient, ready-to-feed formula costs the most. Never try to make your own formula at home-your baby might not get the nutrients needed for growth, development, and good health.Whatever type of formula you use, follow these preparation and refrigeration guidelines:* Always check the expiration date before you buy or use any formula. Don't buy or use leaky, dented, or otherwise damaged containers.* Always wash your hands before preparing formula.* Wash bottles nipples and caps in hot soapy water rinse them carefully and let them air dry Running them through the dishwasher will kill even more germs. Rinsing out bottles and nipples right after feedings will make them easier to clean. Sterilizing is unnecessary.* Refrigerate all opened cans of ready-to-feed and liquid concentrate and use them within the time specified on the can.* Immediately refrigerate any unused formula you have prepared from powder or liquid concentrate.* Don't use formula that has been frozen.* When making formula from powder or liquid concentrate, use the exact amounts of water recommended on the label.The major advantage that bottle-feeding has over breast-feeding is that dad doesn't get left out. Make each feeding session a chance to bond and get close to your baby. While dad is bottle feeding the child, he will have time to bond with it. Many times, when new couples get a child, Dad's are typically felt left out or sometimes try to look for opportunities to help his wife with the new born child. Having the dad bottle feed the child, will give mom a good resting time.Another great advantage of bottle feeding is convenience. Bottle feeding gives the mom an opportunity for her not to feel pressured to feed her child when her circumstances are not convenient. All she has to do is to get her child's formula and give the bottle to her baby. This is extremely convenient especially if the mom is traveling or in public.

How to Plan a Baby Shower

How to Plan a Baby Shower
by Jamie Jefferson
Planning a baby shower doesn't have to be stressful. With a little organization and inspiration, you can easily create a party to honor your friend or family member and her new bundle of joy. Here are some tips for planning a baby shower.Your first step is to choose the date. Although showers are normally held on weekends, weekday evenings are a good option if there are conflicts.Showers are typically held in the third trimester of pregnancy or shortly after the baby is born. Talk with the mother-to-be about which date would work best for her and her important guests (such as her mother, mother-in-law and other close family members). Although you can't accommodate everyone's schedule, make sure to choose a date so that those closest to the guest of honor can attend.Once you have picked a date, get a list of possible guests from the mother to be, or work with her to create one. The number of guests will help you determine whether you can hold the shower in your home, or if you'll need to have a separate location. Find out as soon as possible so you can make reservations if you need to.Pick a theme based on the baby's gender, the nursery décor or something else that the mother-to-be likes. Find something that will be fun for everyone and then look for accessories to go with the theme. Party supply stores often have a wide variety of baby shower themes to choose from. Buy invitations in the same theme so that the guests get a sense of the party's theme before they arrive.Choosing your menu is the next step. If you're serving a sit down lunch or dinner, this requires a bit more planning. Many hosts choose to hold the party in the morning between breakfast and lunch, or in the afternoon between lunch and dinner. This way you'll only have to serve finger food type snacks and it makes the planning a bit easier. Chips and dip, cheese and crackers, small sandwiches, fruit and veggie trays are always popular. It's best to leave alcohol out of your menu, since your guest of honor can't imbibe. But sparkling apple cider or another fun beverage are great ideas. Baby shower games are always the most memorable part of the shower. They provide a nice opportunity before presents are opened for everyone to have some fun together. Your game choices will depend on your audience. Word games are popular with everyone. You can print out a game card with the baby's name and give a prize to the person who comes up with the most words with letters from the name. The best part of the shower, especially for the mother to be, is the gifts. Make sure to have a pen and paper handy so someone can write down the gifts received and whom they came from. This makes the task of sending thank you cards a lot easier. With these simple plans you can create a fun, entertaining and enjoyable baby shower for your friend or family member.

Helping Your Baby Sleep Through The Night

Helping Your Baby Sleep Through The Night
by Jesse Walters
When you get a new born baby, typically you will may find yourself waking up odd hours of the nigh to take care of it. Since the baby does not have a set sleep schedule, waking up at odd hours will be consistent for the first few weeks. By about I month of age you can start to influence your child's sleep schedule, but don't expect your baby to give up middle-of-the-night feedings until some time between the third and fifth month. There are no hard-and-fast rules for getting a child to sleep through the night. Some experts recommend putting a fussy baby to bed, leaving the room, and letting him or her cry until he or she falls asleep-no matter how long it takes. They promise that this technique works in 3 nights or less. Others say to put the child to bed, give a reassuring pat, leave the room, and let the child cry for increasing intervals before returning to the room and calmly reassuring him or her. This method promises to train a child to fall asleep on his or her own within 1 week. Most parents try these and other techniques and find a way that works for them.Most experts discourage parents from letting their children sleep in bed with them. The restless sleep of an infant can prevent parents from getting enough sleep and can interfere with their need for intimacy. The baby can also fall out of bed or the parent can roll over onto the baby. Letting your child sleep with you can also make training the child to fall asleep independently even more difficult. Try some of the following tips to help your child sleep through the night:* If you have just fed your baby and he or she is crying, check his or her diaper to make sure it is dry. If not, change the diaper.* Try cuddling, rocking, or stroking your baby.* If it has been 1 to 2 hours since the baby's last feeding, he or she may be hungry, especially during early infancy. Work toward five feedings every 24 hours by the time your baby is about 4 months old.* Establish a regular sleep schedule. Small children thrive on routine. To help your child develop a regular sleep pattern, put him or her down for naps at about the same time each day and schedule your child's bedtime for the same time each night.* Develop a bedtime routine. Before putting your infant to bed at night, engage in relaxing and enjoyable activities-a warm bath or a soothing massage, singing, soft music, or reading.* Help your child distinguish between night and day. Spend lots of time during the day cuddling, socializing, and playing. Make middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes more brief and less fun, done only by the light of a night light.* Put your baby in the crib when he or she is quiet, but not yet asleep. Gently rub or pat his or her stomach as you talk or sing softly to help him or her find ways to fall asleep.* Minimize putting your young baby to bed with a pacifier. A pacifier may interfere with your child's ability to develop his or her own self-comforting techniques and the child could wake up when the pacifier falls out of his or her mouth.

2008-04-13

10 Reasons Why Men Are Afraid to Date Single Moms

10 Reasons Why Men Are Afraid to Date Single Moms
by Deborrah Cooper
With divorce rates in the U.S. hovering at the 50% mark, and more children than ever being raised by one parent, the possibility that a man will run across a single Mom are very high. But many men are hesitant to date a woman with children, and have a long list of reasons they feel such a relationship is more trouble than it's worth. Recognizing their fears though, single Moms can approach the dating arena armed with knowledge and ready to deal with men's fears head on! Here are the top 10 reasons men shy away from serious involvements with single Moms:
(1) You Just Can't Get Away.You are tied down and can't just scamper off for spur of the moment romantic dinners, spontaneous plays or concerts, or midnight breakfasts. Spur-of-the-moment overnight get-aways are out of the question. You have to get a babysitter. You have to make plans in advance. And if you can't find a sitter, or your budget won't allow you to hire one, his desire for a romantic evening or weekend with you goes up in a puff of disappointed smoke.
(2) You Have Children by Numerous Guys.Most guys accept the fact that our society has changed and that divorce, long-term cohabitation, and just plain carelessness means that there are many women with children in the dating pool. Dealing with one guy about his child or children is usually not much of a problem. However, the chances of "baby daddy drama" increase substantially the more personalities there are involved in the new relationship. Men may stick around for awhile, but few are looking to "wife up" a woman that has that much baggage.
(3) Your Children Are Too Old.Tim is a 33 year old computer technician in San Jose. He won't date a woman that has children over the age of 8. Tim drew the line after he got hit with that "I don't have to listen to you 'cause you ain't my daddy anyway" line one time too many. He acknowledges that many women make the mistake of telling their young sons that they are "the man of the house," something the young boy may take great pride in. The son will thus challenge any contender to the throne and his power in the household. So for Tim, unless the children are relatively young, he doesn't want to be bothered.
(4) Your Children Are Too Young.At the other end of the spectrum are men that are run off by a child that is TOO young, like nursery or preschool age. Small children are very Mommy-oriented and require a lot of assistance with everything from bathing to eating. They also require constant watchful attention for their own protection and safety. A man that feels he comes in a distant second to your children may not be so thrilled with the situation and choose instead to date a woman that has more time and energy to expend on him.
(5) "Are You My New Daddy?"Smart men know that little children get easily attached to people they have fun with. But guys don't want to deal with that emotional quagmire. Should he decide that you two aren't quite right for each other, he is afraid of breaking your innocent child's heart. Many men therefore shy away from heavy involvements with single Moms, and put up roadblocks or shy away from meeting or spending any time with her children.
(6) He's a Lover, Not a Fighter.Realistically, after a breakup or divorce, children are usually pretty negative about some new person coming into Mommy or Daddy's life. It ruins their fantasy of the parents getting back together. They may even feel that this new guy is "taking you away" and lash out, behaving in a manner so rude and horrible that you are embarrassed to be his or her mother! Your new beau is not so attached to you yet that he wants to put the energy into developing a relationship with any child who sees him as the enemy.
(7) Your Sex Life is M.I.A.Many men feel awkward about being seen the next morning getting out of "Mommy's" bed. Mom can't spend the night away from the children, so there may be a problem finding time for intimate private time. I heard a story recently about a guy that would go through a big production worthy of an Oscar! He'd go about saying goodnight to the children and actually get into his car and drive off. But, he'd hang out at a corner coffee shop for about 30 minutes, then circle back around and come in after the children were in bed and asleep. He would get up and leave early in the morning, before they woke up. So his date's children never, ever saw him in bed or suspected he was in bed with their Mom.
(8) He's Not Trying to Be a Captain.Money is usually tight for single Moms, and paying $30-50 per date for a babysitter is not something most can do every weekend. Should a single Mom ask her date to contribute to babysitting fees? Or is that something an understanding man would offer to do just because? Some men will offer, but others see babysitting as Mom's expense. Additionally, dating a single Mom will usually mean the boyfriend will be called upon to help with sudden expenses and other bills involving the household and/or children. Some men consider this type of thing to be a drain on their resources.
(9) Your Little Darlings Are Devils on Wheels.One of the top reasons men gave for not wanting to date single Moms involves his stance on discipline. "There is an apparent role reversal and the children tell the MOTHER what to do… these women have no control over their children!" exclaimed Darius, a 35 year old high school math teacher. He says that if he doesn’t like how they are talking to her, he pulls her aside to see if she can correct the problem. Knowing "his place" most men, just like Darius, won't say anything, but they are watching to see how you handle it. When Moms allow their children to run wild, talk back, or use foul language, Darius quickly moves on.
(10) Mom Demonstrates Resentment Towards HIS Children.Several men I spoke with have children from previous marriages or relationships themselves, and have close contact with their children, over and above that dictated by child custody and visitation orders. They all reported at one time or another dating a woman with children of her own that expressed resentment that they did more with and for their own children than they did with and for hers. These extremely family oriented and very loving men abandoned these budding relationships without looking back.
Get It Together!A new romance is exciting and invigorating, and something each of us would love to experience. But you cannot ever forget that you still have children and that you need to be there for them 100%. A new man or woman is not going to magically fix what is wrong with your life. Relationships are not designed to be distractions from your responsibilities as a single parent. If your life is a big mess, get busy straightening it out!
Set up schedules for everyone so that your children are provided with a sense of stability. Establish a discipline/reward system so each child knows their responsibilities, the household rules, and what the repercussions are if either is ignored. Get yourself a job with a higher salary and hours that work better for your family's schedule.
Get things running smoothly so that it is obvious to a new man coming into your life that you have things fully under control and are ready for love.
Planning a Baby Shower: Nine Ideas for a More Memorable Shower
by Jamie Jefferson
The time just before a baby is born is a time to celebrate the parents-to-be and honor the miracle that is about to take place. It is a time to gather with loved ones who will support and love the parents as they embark on this life-changing journey.
The best, most memorable, baby showers not only prepare a mom with the things she needs to care for her new baby, but they also create an environment of support and encouragement. They remind her that she has friends she can call upon to help, and they help prepare her emotionally for the momentous event that is about to occur in her life.
Here are nine ideas to help you plan a more memorable baby shower.
1. Plan carefully. Traditionally, a baby shower is held one or two months before the birth of the child. You don't want it too close to the baby's due date because the mother will need time to make sure she has all the things she'll need before the birth of the baby - assuming there are baby essentials that she doesn't receive as gifts at her shower.
You don't need to send formal invitations, but there are so many cute baby shower ideas on the Internet today. Do an online search for "baby shower invitations" for easy printable cards or templates, or search for "baby shower poems" for cute rhymes you can type and print. Send your invitations about three weeks before the event, and make sure to write on the invitation where your guest of honor is registered.
2. Make sure your guest list is complete. Baby showers are traditionally times when the female friends and relatives of the pregnant mom get together. But "couples showers" are becoming more popular, to shower both the mother and the father of the new baby. See what the mother's preferences are. Some moms love to have their spouses included; others prefer the idea of being nurtured at a girls-only event.
3. Keep things simple. When you keep your party plan (including decorations invitations, and games) simple, you will be able to better focus on the task at hand: making your friend feel treasured and ready for this life changing event. Host the party at your home, which tends to be the least expensive and the most cozy venue.
4. Help the helpers. Beyond the goal of making sure the mom-to-be has everything she needs when the baby is born, a baby shower is a show of support. Put out a calendar or sign-up sheet on a table at the shower, along with suggestions of ideas the guests can offer to do. A few examples: Bringing dinner, taking siblings to the park for a couple of hours, sitting with the baby so the new mom can take a nap or go to the salon for a little pampering after the baby is born.
5. Equip the mom with diapers. Request on the invitation that each guest bring a pack of diapers, from newborn to size 3. It's amazing what leaving the party with a trunkful of diapers will do in helping a new mom feel prepared.
6. Don't forget the guestbook. Put out a small book so that the guests can write messages to the new family. Suggest that they write their best advice on parenting or a special message to the baby to be. Start the guestbook with a message of your own and circulate it at the party to make sure everyone contributes. This will be a treasured keepsake for the new family.
Another idea: put out cards for the guests to write their messages. Then create a special photo book or memory album featuring the cards alongside photos taken at the party.
7. Give the mom-to-be a disposable camera so she can take photos whenever she would like. Depending on the size of your guest list, you may want to distribute other disposable cameras throughout the party room.
8. Create an Encouragement Jar. Each of the guests can write an encouraging thought or inspiring quote on a slip of paper and then put it into the jar. When the new mom is feeling tired and overwhelmed, she can reach in and pull out a slip of paper to help her once again feel surrounded by the warmth and encouragement of her shower.
9. Ask each guest who is already a mother to bring an item that was indispensable to her in her own parenting journey. It may be a book, a parenting magazine or a small piece of baby equipment. You can request that the guests bring these items as gifts (or just give the mom the names of them) so that the mom has them on hand. Another idea would be to have each guest bring a gift copy of her favorite parenting book, if she has one. From "The Three Martini Playdate" to "Operating Instructions" to "Everyday Blessings," it is fun to see the broad range of parenting philosophies in the group and will help the new mom see that there are lots of different ways to solve parenting challenges.

Baby Jewelry

Baby Jewelry
by Hillary Templeton
Kid’s Jewelry Words fail to describe a woman’s craze for jewelry, as it makes them look beautiful, lively and leaves an unimaginable impression. Jewelry is not considered as a mere fashion accessory for women; it’s a reflection of her personality and it depicts her preferences, style and nature. So women make sure they wear jewels and metals that suit their personality. Jewelry is a passion for women, kids and nowadays-even men. This craze is growing day by day amongst old and young. Nowadays children’s apparel stores reflect more fashion like for example children’s jewelry for preteen girls or baby jewelry. Babies and kids jewelries can be really fun as it involves lots of love and passion. Kids love to wear trendy jewelry and they mostly imitate their favorite celebrity. So go ahead and select jewelries that are skin friendly as kids have sensitive skin. Baby jewelry is always considered as a quality piece and it’s often highly treasured, hence when someone purchases jewelry for babies it’s not valued in monetary terms. The sentimental value attached to that jewelry is always priceless. So design baby jewelry using gold or silver. A classic baby jewelry item generally includes bracelets or bangles in silver or gold. When you are designing baby or kids jewelry, always make safest items like charm bracelets, pendant, beautiful crosses and stylish lightweight earrings. Jewelry made in gold and silver is always appreciated and however in these days diamonds are also preferred. If you wish purchase something significant for the little wonders then you can try and incorporate birthstones in the designs and parents would surely love to celebrate their little ones birthday with a piece of jewelry that relates to the date of birth. Gemstones represent twelve tribes in Sharmans Cross and it’s believed to bring luck and power. Baby jewelry should necessarily be hypo allergic and should not irritate the baby’s tender skin. Try and select tightly woven designs that are beautiful so that there is no danger of falling apart. Kids fantasize danglers; hence design some, which are stylish and childish. You can take inspiration from their cartoon shows and design danglers with tweety, Bird Clasp Charm, Snowman and Santa Claus Charm Bracelet etc. You can open your mind and be creative and go wild with designs. Baby jewelry can be made trendy by using beads and it’s really fun to select beads as every bead can be made into a beautiful jewelry set. Children’s clothing retailers such as Judy and Christopher Freville Baby Clothes Inc always like to wear matching jewelry for all their clothing range. This includes the accessories and beads which come in various shapes and sizes and in all rainbow colors. While selecting baby jewelry you should be very cautious with paints that contain lead, as it could be dangerous. There are no mandatory regulations in using lead in children's products, but it could leave the kids more prone to lead poisoning. This poisoning could later cause behavioral problems, cause seizures and decrease intelligence. Some kids jewelry could cause brain damage hence be very cautious while selecting jewelry for the little your little wonders!!!

2008-03-20

Ideas For A Baby Shower Gift? : Baby wash bath store shopping sale online

Ideas For A Baby Shower Gift?
by Mandie Klein
Giving a baby shower gift is a tradition that originated back in the 1900s. Friends and relatives would throw a shower for the expectant mother. In those days, the gift was usually personally made by the guest. Today, there are a lot more choices when it comes in gifts. A baby shower gift can be everything from practical to extremely weird. There are some items that usually make a good baby shower gift gift. Check to see if you have not yet thought of these as gifts.
The Usual Stuff
Picture frames are a great way to remember the actual event itself. Pictures will preserve your memories and the frames will preserve your pictures. Next up is clothing. Whether it be sleepers, undershirts, onesies, or whatnot, make sure they are easy to change. Numerous buttons and snaps may be too much for new parents to handle. A suitable complement to clothing is health and grooming stuff. This includes powder, lotions, and baby wipes. Feeding gifts would include bibs, bottles, bottle holders, baby formula, and the like. Bath products should include towels, wash cloths, shampoo, soaps, and even bath toys.
The baby's room also needs some livening up. Consider stuffed animals, wall pictures, furniture, wall art, lamps, and even bouncy seats! Of course, what child would turn down toys? You can get teething toys, play mats, and the like as a baby shower gift. But with fun can also come learning. If you go this route, illustrated books and audio CDs are your best bet.
A Touch Of The Unusual
How about something for the parents? That's a concept! You can present mom and dad with gift certificates to spas! This will go over well considering they will need all the downtime they can get with a newborn on their hands. Want to go for something unusual? How about gifts for the siblings? Government bonds for the baby? Or silver spoons or rattles?
Another very unique gift is a diaper cake. This is made of diapers and decorated with all kinds of useful goodies. Of course, there is always the classic rubber ducky. What child should be without one? All you need is water and this dependable rubber object will sail its yellow self back and forth.
A good idea is to purchase a laundry basket and some washing items. You can then arrange all the washing items as gifts in the laundry basket. Sort of your giant baby shower gift basket. Talk about going big!
As can be seen, there really is no limit to your imagination. All you have to do is be a little creative when it comes to planning the gift and you should do just great. Just take the suggestions above as considerations and you will not go wrong. It is not that difficult to actually get any old baby gift. It is a lot more difficult to find a genuine present that the mother will appreciate and that actually has relevance to her newborn. Go out and shop!

Organic Baby Skin Care - Products for Natural Baby Skincare : Baby wash bath store shopping sale online

Organic Baby Skin Care - Products for Natural Baby Skincare
by Franchis Adam

Organic baby products are increasingly popular with new parents who worry over environmental safety or the effect of chemicals on baby's skin and overall health. Even the consumption of infant lotions and powders are not recommended with a regular tub, as they can induce rind irritations to a baby’s susceptible rind. Many infants and old babies sustain from arid rind still when moisturizer are used as they are not kept hydrated. Similar to adults, infant rind maintenance relies on domestic moisture and insuring they have enough to drink will greatly better their rind character. As the kid grows old and is taken swimming in a pond or in salt water, the chlorine and salt should never be allowed to dry on their rind.
Baby rind is really susceptible and can be stressed from slim factors. Baby rind has flawed exempt structure and is brief of self-resistance and security capacity from foreign irritations and strain. So, it is frequently annoyed and suffers from the rind problem. Organic infant products are progressively favorite with original parents who concern over environmental safety or the consequence of chemicals on infant's rind and whole health. Baby rind is the almost susceptible of all and deserves the purest normal maintenance. Beaming infant healthful infant products are made with the really finest, purest ingredients. Baby rind cannot be amply available of force from foreign stimulation though the susceptible rind is safely protected and the self-resistance capacity is raised. Baby rind is really susceptible which can be affected by slim factors. Artificial colors, chemical fragrance and alcohol can be really detrimental to infant's rind.
Parents often feel that it is healthy to expose children to the sun, however, there is absolutely no medical evidence that states such exposure should be direct. Before you use any baby linens or baby clothes for the first time, wash the items in a hypoallergenic detergent or soap formulated for babies. Also, use only soap or bath solution meant for babies when you bathe your infant. If your baby has little pimples along skin folds, especially on the neck, back, shoulders, chest or diaper area, she may have prickly heat, which can be remedied by avoiding heat and humidity, administering cool baths and dressing her in light, loose clothing. If you feel your baby's skin is reacting to the sunscreen, try a sunscreen that is suitable for sensitive skin. This should not cause any problems.
A baby's delicate skin is the largest bodily organ representing nearly 15% of total bodyweight. The skin is a natural barrier. Not only does it protect the internal organs and act as a highly effective screen against germs, it is responsible for controlling body temperature and preventing excessive water loss. It is important to protect, nourish and hydrate your baby's skin now and for the future.

Eczema Skin Care Tips : baby wash bath store shopping sale online

Eczema Skin Care Tips
by Angie Coleman

After receiving numerous queries regarding eczema, I am now dedicating a page to Eczema. Please take the following notes as in the spirit it is intended. I am not a Qualified Dermatologist or Doctor. I can only speak from my own personal Eczema experience. If you have not yet consulted with your own Doctor about a skin condition that is currently affecting you, I would strongly advise that you seek his or her advice before trying other avenues. For example, your skin condition/eczema may be a symptom of some other underlying condition. Over the years my tolerance to my skin sensitivities has decreased considerably, which in turn has led to extreme aggressive bouts of eczema. But, within the last year I have found that by being disciplined and following the below steps has helped me to cope with my very dry skin/Eczema condition. A big thank you to my husband, Nick, who helped me with words of encouragement and support - and also for helping me to program this wonderful site, whereby hopefully, other like-minded individuals will find relief in the beautiful products we support.
Some helpful tips for Eczema:
1. If you are currently experiencing infected eczema, treat your eczema with the steroid treatment prescribed to you by your Doctor. Desperation usually gets the better of us in the end (it did with me). I tried many alternative remedies, but the only sure way forward was medical intervention. But saying that, it's one thing getting rid of eczema temporarily, but being rid of it for good was another matter entirely. Hence, my aim was to use the steroid treatment cream for the last and final time! When your skin is inflamed, itching and bleeding, steroids seem to be the only hope and relief on offer for eczema these days.
2. Once the infection has cleared up (bleeding/weeping and general 'rawness') heavily moisturise your skin with natural skincare (after cleansing your skin). Keep moisturising even if large clumps of skin fall off. Constantly reapply creams/butters as eczema areas begin to dry. It is best to use products containing plenty of Essential Fatty Acids, for example body butters etc. Note: If you use any new products on your skin whilst it is in an inflamed or in an infectious state, it may create new sensitivities for you, regardless of whether the products are natural or otherwise (more specifically products containing more essential oils and herbal extracts - it is best to opt for a more basic ingredient cream/butter). Whilst constantly applying heavy thick butters to your skin, you may want to wear some old clothes for a while; the aim here is to keep your skin at optimum moisture levels. Your good clothes will become spoilt. This part of the process took me about half a week to complete. I was at the time signed off sick from work, so, back then I could take every day as it came. This is an important fact to mention, if you have worries about your work, book a couple of weeks off, so that you can focus on healing your eczema. Perhaps you have a hectic family life; maybe some kind caring individual could baby-sit for a while? There is nothing worse than worries flying around your mind. Worrying, just made my eczema states more aggressive.
3. Are you still having trouble in trying to stop the itch? This is why eczema keeps coming back/becomes re-infected, it's that unbearable urge to rip your skin off, that unbearable burning itch that you just can't leave alone. Whilst at the stage of heavily moisturising your flaky skin, try hay fever tablets (please check with your Doctor first). When the skin starts to peel in clumps it can feel like a heavy sticky clay cracking facemask, and that can keep the itch going. The hay fever tablets were excellent for ridding the horrible urge to scratch. They worked (for me), because after the initial 7/8 hours were complete the urge to scratch came back. I must say that the only hay fever tablets that stopped the itching was Benedryl Plus. I tried the normal Benedryl, but experienced no itch relief. But please do check with your Doctor before taking hay fever tablets as they may affect whatever condition may be underlying the Eczema (if there is one). Even though the eczema itch may have stopped, keep topping up your moisture levels, this is vital. Only stop moisturising when you have stopped the hay fever medication course and your skin no longer itches without the aid of hay fever medication. However, do keep your former eczema skin well moisturised. The paranoia of eczema returning does get better, eventually, and the day that you can leave your skin free of any lotions and potions is very liberating indeed!
4. A little sunlight was very beneficial for eczema. After heavily moisturising the very dry and flaky skin (with no infection) I sat in the garden for about 10 minutes, after 3:45pm, to avoid burning. Of course, if weather permitting. Sunlight is needed for our skin to formulate Vitamin D.
5. Have you heard of Essential Fatty Acids? These are thought to be precursors for the hormones that look after your skin and reproductive systems. They can also assist in regulating hormone fluctuations. Unfortunately, by the time you've noticed that you do lack EFAs, it can take up to 6 months to get your levels back to normal. Hair and skin are always the first to be compromised when your system is running below normal. Whilst trying to increase your EFAs by eating the correct foods (avocados, nuts & seeds - Hemp being the best source) it might also be a good idea to take supplements for increased effectiveness? Such as Vitamin C (Ester C), Magnesium, Zinc and Vitamin B Complex. I found that these were excellent for trying to assist skin disorders. PLEASE NOTE: Essential Fatty Acid Oils should be COLD PRESSED only. Do not purchase anything but. I personally switched brand earlier this year and bought by mistake an Oil that was NOT COLD-PRESSED. The quality is inferior as all the goodness and nutrition has been killed off by excess heat!!!! My skin started to become more sensitised and reacted. I switched back to COLD-PRESSED and noticed almost an immediate difference with my skin health).
6. NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED! Well, at least until you have the Eczema under control. I personally found that when I drank alcohol, this made the itching burn so much worse. This is due to the alcohol leaching precious nutrients from your body.
7. Eat plenty of 'rainbow food', these are vegetables and fruits of all colours, this will ensure that you ingest all the beneficial enzymes available for your bodily functions, best to make them Organic too.
8. Ensure that you receive plenty of rest, sleep is a wonderful rejuvenator; perhaps skip those nights out until you have the Eczema fully under control?
9. SOAP - only use soap that is handmade - with plenty of natural vegetable glycerine, a good oily/fatted soap is best. Avoid Sodium Lauryl Sulphates at all costs. This is a known skin sensitiser/irritant which is found in most, if not all commercial mainstream products. When using SLS on your skin (and backed up through my own personal experience) the natural acid mantle can be seriously disrupted. Of course it does depend on how much SLS is in a product, avoid commercial bubble baths, they WILL strip your natural oils, as they do tend to contain more SLS than say for example, a shampoo. Skin needs to retain a nice natural water resistant base to defend itself from invading microbes, etc. The sebum and sweat combine nicely to form this healthy acid mantle (which is also a mild anti-bactericide too). Hence, more sensitive skins will be prone to the chance of experiencing skin disorders/problems when using SLS products, such as eczema. Unfortunately, for some, the need to remove all trace of natural oil from the skin whilst showering and bathing is the only way one feels clean. Over washing can seriously damage your skin. Since using less harsh detergents my skin's ability to heal itself has become far more efficient. Also avoiding products with petro-chemical derived emollients has also resulted in far fewer rashes & spots. Using harsh detergents means that the skin has to over compensate from an offensive attack. The skin starts to produce more and more oil (sebum) as a form of protection. Pores can become clogged and infected, resulting in spots for some. For me, the balance was constantly being tipped up until I stopped stripping my skin's natural defence and plastering it with cling-film type petrochemical skincare. Of course, when choosing natural skincare, you still need to be aware that all base oils have differing characteristics; some are more suited to mature/dry skins whereas other base oils are more suited to more sensitive/combination type skins. But saying that, all the products on this site specify the skin type it was created for. If your skin suffers with excess oil (and is not sensitive) this skincare might help? But, do watch your skin in this respect, as oily over-production is a sure sign of an imbalance, which could lead to sensitivities for the future.
10. After moisturising your skin heavily, whether with natural or otherwise, your skin can become clogged, especially after using so many body butters, etc. Your skin needs to breathe. Too much on your skin can also lead to that hot burning eczema itch. You now need to achieve a nice balance between using moisturisers/creams/oils/butters and a very mild and gentle soap at bath/shower time. When the eczema is at it's most intense, a bath is the last thing you want. Perhaps showering might be a good option? Don't soak the affected skin for longer than is necessary. Simply Soaps Calendula & Lavender is an excellent bar of soap, it can help to achieve this balance. Very mild and effective for clearing the excess oily build-up whilst respecting my natural pH balance/acid mantle. But since my own Eczema experience, we have introduced many more wonderful/skin nourishing soaps.
11. There is nothing better when you have been suffering eczema for long periods of time, to finally have a wonderful exfoliating session when your eczema is finally under control! I can now exfoliate my skin on a regular basis, about once a week is right for me. I would only suggest trying to exfoliate once your skin has gone back to normal - ensuring that about a month has passed with a good track record of healthy skin even before attempting to exfoliate. Once you have finished exfoliating, ensure that you seal the fresh bare layers of skin with a natural good moisturising lotion/cream/oil containing plenty of Essential Fatty Acids, to ensure you nourish and protect your skin.
12. Exercise on a regular basis and keep drinking plenty of water. The constant flow of fresh new liquid releases toxins from your system, sluggish lymph is able to move along far more efficiently when you exercise. Both will enable you to experience far more balance within your system.
13. Look into the type of detergent you use to wash your clothes, washing powders/liquids are usually the main source of skin discomfort/increase of eczema episodes.
14. I know it's easier said than done, but do try and take some time to relax. I found that yoga & meditating was an excellent aid in helping me keep calm in times of stress.
My main eczema skin allergy triggers are Petroleum & SLS based products. These ingredients can be found in perfume/fragrances, and in most, if not all mainstream skincare and hair care products. The affects of petro-chemical derived ingredients suffocate the sensitive skin's ability to breathe; the petro-chemical based skincare acts like a cling-film wrap, this is the best way to describe the skin's inability to breathe. Hence, the skin becomes hot and itchy, and can then lead to eczema.
Of course, everyone's triggers are most certainly different. Some triggers are from natural products, such as Vitamin E and essential oils.
I wish you luck in trying to overcome your skin condition

2008-03-08

Teach your baby to sign : Baby shopping sale online

Teach your baby to sign : Baby shopping sale online
Teach your baby to sign
by Leanne Jackson
For a parent there is nothing worse than watching as your child struggles to make itself understood. They know what they want to say, and may even know the word they want to say but so often they are not able to form that word in a way that an adult can understand. Even when they can talk they may not be able to make the word they want to say understood. This leads to frustration on both the part of the adult and the child and, more often than not, results in your little one crying as you both fumble around with communication. But this is just a part of growing up, right? Wrong!Baby signing is a way of getting your child to make itself understood from as young an age as seven or eight months old. It uses broad and easily understandable gestures to indicate words and phrases giving your child a whole new vocabulary, before they even learn to speak. Children who learn to sign find that they are quicker to communicate and therefore are less inclined to have tantrums due to frustration. There is also studies that say that signing leads to a higher IQ in your child; they are likened to sponges at a young age and pick things up very quickly.It is important to stick with a recognised signing course as, although you may be quite capable of creating your own signs, it would be quite embarrassing if the sign you taught your child for eat actually meant toilet! And don't be discouraged if your child doesn't start immediately. They do need time to pick things up but you will be amazed at how quickly it will come to them, and how quickly they will surpass you. And the shy, stumbling toddler will become confident at communicating and getting things right.If you liked this article and want some more information on American Sign Language (ASL) then please check out this site:http://babysigning.url-Site.com