Baby Bath Tubs

Baby Bath Tubs - Do I Need to Buy One For My Baby?

By Jane Rainford

It is easy to get carried away and buy your newborn everything they could possibly ever need. However, some things are more essential than others. A baby bath tub is one item that really can be made obsolete by you or your baby.

Some things you need to think about:

Cost

If you are going to buy a baby bath - shop around. Baby baths can cost anything from $10 to $100's (if you fancy splashing out on a roll top bath for your baby), and really depend on whether you want something stylish, or just practical.

Ease

We used a baby bath and the sink. It depended on who was bathing him. The baby bath could be used on the living room floor - until he started to splash too much! The sink was handy for a quicker bath.

Baby preference

For a while our baby developed hatred of bath time, we didn't know what to do He was about 1 1/2 and for no apparent reason at all, he seemed to be scared of water. He wouldn't use a baby bath or our bath at all. The only option left to us, was to top and tail him until the phobia passed. It worked, but it just goes to show, when YOU think something is OK for baby - they might have other ideas.

Alternatives

There are many ways to bath your baby.

• In the adult bath - once your baby can sit up without assistance.
• In a tummy tub or bucket bath - the 1st time you see these they look like very strange items. A tall tub that baby sits in, in the fetal position. As it replicates the womb; babies love them!
• In a bowl in the sink - be careful to keep baby's head away from the taps In a baby bath with a support - these have a shaped sloping support that helps keep your baby more upright, while allowing them the freedom to splash around
• In a regular baby bath. Probably the most common method.

Accessories

There are so many accessories you can buy from toys to baby bathrobes:

• Toys - I really wanted my baby to have plastic bath ducks - but this was for me not him - he had absolutely no interest in them whatsoever! It was only as he got older that he started to want toys in the bath.
• Bubble bath - again this is really only for when they get older. A newborn baby needs plain water for their bath - their skin just doesn't need anything in the water. Non slip bath mats - always a good idea if your child is using the bath
• Baby shampoo visors - brilliant if your child starts to hate having their hair washed. It stops water running down their face and into their eyes when you rinse their hair.
• Bath seats, these are great for that time when your baby is too big for a baby bath but too small for a regular bath. They can sit in a bath seat and be supported, but still have freedom to splash about.
• Bath mitts and sponges, Mitts are great for washing the little ones, but a flannel or a sponge is all you really need
• Bath toiletries, generally all you need is a bottle of top to toe wash for a small baby. All the talc, shampoos, bubble baths, are no good for their skin, and they really don't need them.
• Baby bath robes and towels. Keep baby's towels separate from your own. Also, it is lovely to have a nice new towel to wrap them in after a bath.

Space

For me, space was an issue. Baby baths are big, our house was small. It just made so much more sense to use the sink with a bowl in it while our baby was small.

Safety

NEVER EVER leave your baby unattended in the bath. It can take a tiny amount of water and a couple of seconds for a terrible accident to happen. If you have to leave - take your baby with you.

Jane Rainford. When I was pregnant, I looked to the internet for information, but what I got was information overload. Never having been pregnant before it was all so overwhelming, I had so many questions, the internet seemed a good place to start. Once my baby was born I didn't have the time to be searching for answers, though I still had so many questions. As he is growing, I really want to pass on all I've learned to other parents who have questions, want answers, just want a laugh or to know there are other mums out there tearing their hair out too. I'm no expert, I'm a mum - hang on maybe that does make me an expert! And boy do you learn a lot after baby is born! I run http://www.onlinemum.com From bump to toddler.

Baby Store

Shopping Tips For Baby Store Visits

By Kim M. Proulx

Attention expecting moms! You're about to find out the best way to shop for the enormous amount of baby furniture, baby gear, clothes and accessories you're going to need once your adorable angel arrives. You might have friends who have recommended certain local baby stores and products, but let's face it, when you're 8 - 9 months pregnant, the thought of going from store to store to find just the right things for your baby seems like quite a daunting task...and it is! There's an easier way. I'm referring to online shopping.

How to Pick the Best Online Baby Store

There are some truly amazing baby stores online that have everything you need for your baby in one spot, there for the picking, with just the click of a mouse. When searching for an online baby store it's recommended to pick a store that offers well known brands like Graco, DaVinci, Argington, Gerber, Safety 1st, Serta and any others that you recognize. You might also want to search for the terms organic or hypoallergenic if you're into a "green" nursery decor.

Next, check to see if the baby stores on your short list have every type of item you'll need such as: baby furniture, baby gear, baby clothes, baby toys, baby safety and health products and nursery accessories because it will definitely save you time if you get everything you need from one place. Then, if shopping on a budget, you might want to check for low shipping costs or special deals available in the baby store's clearance section.

Once you've narrowed down your list of baby stores, then it's time to pick a winner. If your top two stores meet all the previous requirements then you might consider checking their BBB grades and spending a few minutes on each site to see how easy their online store is to navigate. Also make sure they offer a few ways to contact Customer Service, such as email, phone or live chat, if you have questions. Once you've made your choice, then it's time to go shopping!

Creating your Baby Store Shopping List

Below are some suggestions of items you should put on your shopping list before surfing the net. You might even want to add some of these to your baby shower gift suggestions, so you're sure to have everything you need when you bring your baby home for the first time.

1. Baby Crib
2. Changing Table
3. Dresser
4. Glider or Rocker
5. Diaper Stacker
6. Mobile
7. Bouncer
8. Car Seat
9. Stroller
10. Baby Clothes
11. Diaper Bag
12. Diapers and Wipes
13. Baby Bathtub
14. Bibs and Bottles
15. Crib Bedding
16. Pack N Play
17. Baby socks and hats
18. Baby nightgown or sleepsack
19. Baby Toys
20. Baby ointments
21. Diaper Pail
22. Safety products, monitor, safety gates
23. High Chair

"Few!" Now that's a long list, but believe it or not you will need all of those things and then some! Babies are small, but their needs are huge, so make sure to be ready by getting all the necessities.

It's Time to Shop

When you're ready to shop, get online, head to your favorite baby store and start with baby furniture and work your way down. Looking for nursery sets is the easiest way to get a furniture combo that offers everything needed in the nursery. You might also want to check out the Best Sellers list to see what other parents are buying. This could help you narrow down your options. As for baby gear, you might want to go with a popular brand like Graco or any other well know company. Visit the brand page for your chosen Manufacturer and select items from their product list such as: stroller, car seat, pack n play, high chair, swing, activity center, diaper pail and even baby safety items like monitors.

Check Out

Once you've selected all of your items and have checked out, make sure you look at the shipping time, so you know when to expect your items to arrive. It's always smart to order baby furniture and baby gear in advance, so you're completely prepared for that special day. The best part about shopping at online baby stores is that it will take you around the same time to shop and buy all your baby items as it did to read this article!

Kim Proulx, a Certified Parent Coach, believes that parenting should be fun from the start, so she's adamant about helping people find the best baby stores online that have everything that they and their baby will need, so that baby and parents will have a more stress-free life.

Baby Reflux

Understanding Baby Reflux

By Erline Herman

Baby reflux refers to that condition in which babies throw out milk or food because of having a weak stomach valve reacting with stomach acid. Normally, the food or milk goes up the throat and is vomited out by the baby.

Sometimes, silent reflux also happens. Silent reflux is a condition often misdiagnosed or unnoticed. The baby experiences the symptoms mentioned above, except for vomiting. In some cases, babies find it more difficult to endure silent reflux. You may see your baby while feeding suddenly taking a deep swallow. It appears like a gulp that suddenly ends your baby crying out. When this happens, it is possible that the baby is swallowing back whatever has gone up on his or her throat. The situation is very difficult to babies. If you think your baby is suffering from silent baby reflux, you may take your baby to a doctor and explain your observations. If the situation of your kid seems very alarming, some tests may be done.

Normally, baby reflux begins when the baby if about 5 weeks old. This is because your baby starts consuming more milk. Common signs or reflux include screaming and fussing while being fed. They also tend to arch their backs when they are fed. Some other signs include gulping while feeding then screaming. Parents can also observe excessive drooling or sudden signs of being unhappy when laid flat.

While the situation could be common for babies under a certain age bracket, you need to see a doctor to confirm the condition and to solve the baby's uneasiness. Babies with mild reflux may be recommended to change the baby formula they are taking (if bottle feeding). Often, baby formulas that are thicker and easier to digest can help babies prevent reflux easier. For babies who are breast fed, a certain infant medication could be prescribed by the doctors. Baby reflux can be solved if you consult your doctor immediately.

Reflux may not appear too often once the baby gets introduced with solid foods. At the end of your baby's first year, reflux may rarely happen. Below are some practical tips for parents to help them avoid baby reflux as much as possible:

• Do not overfeed your baby, and make sure that the baby is properly winded. Parents may just opt to feed their babies little but often. This helps them easily digest the food that they eat.
• After feeding, make sure your baby is kept upright for at least 30 minutes. Avoid lying your baby flat that can trigger reflux, which can make the milk goes up the throat of the baby.
• If your baby unfortunately slept right after eating, you should under more pillows to your baby. Sleeping with the baby's head higher can prevent reflux on the part of the baby.

Reflux is a very hard situation for babies. If makes them feel very uncomfortable, aside from the fact that their food intake goes to waste. Apply the tips mentioned above to help your baby prevent reflux.

If you need more information on your baby health, you can try to visit my blog here [http://2babyblog.com/babies-health/understanding-baby-reflux]

Baby Weaning

A Quick Guide to Baby Weaning and the Baby-Led Weaning Technique - Are You Having Trouble?

By Nick Bright

This baby weaning process relies on your baby's natural desire to reach for foods and start to put things in their mouths. This natural curiosity starts from about the age of six months.

By offering a small choice of finger food to your baby and allowing him to feel, taste, smell and self-feed means there is no pressure or force feeding from you as a parent and encourages your baby's natural curiousity. This baby weaning technique has proved successful when weaning babies onto solid food.

If you are having trouble weaning your baby by spoon feeding purees or if your baby suddenly decides to take a disliking to your approach, then baby led weaning might be the answer to your problems!.

What follows are simple baby weaning guidelines to help you on your way:

Baby led weaning do's and dont's

Do....

• Offer a range of colours, shapes and textures in the food to stimulate your baby's senses.
• Try to make your own baby weaning foods by following some easy recipes that will follow.
• Please make sure you test new foods on your baby for allergic reactions first by following the 'Four Day' rule.
• Allow plenty of time for your baby's to finish their food during a meal time.
• Try to synchronise your famil meal time with the baby's. Your baby will learn more by imitating your actions.

Do not....

• Provide food which is high in sugar or salt. This includes processed foods like chocolate, crisps and sweets. They do not need those foods nor do they benefit from the sugar or salt in the food. High levels of salt and sugar is harmful to your baby.
• Do not leave your baby unsupervised with food.
• Do not give your baby cutlery.

There are some real advantages when baby weaning using this technique:

• It allows your baby to join in with the family at meal times by eating similar food all the while allowing you some time to eat your own meal
• baby led weaning encourages a less fussy attitude towards food and helps develop your baby's natural curiosity to try things at least once.
• Your baby's motor skills (like the small movements of your baby's arms, fingers and hands) and chewing skills are developed.

However there are some small disadvantages!:

• Handing over full control of feeding to your little one can only mean a lot of mess! You will need to accept this as part of the process.
• Not all food can be formed into hand finger food shapes. We got round this with some clever recipes which you can find at the end of this article.
• You may have a fear of your baby choking. Do not let this worry you as babies have already developed natural choking and vomiting reflexes. A baby will also not develop the ability to move food to the back of the mouth until they know how to swallow solid food. It's all natural.
• You may find you throw \ clean up more food than goes into your baby!

Making baby weaning food yourself

Do not be worried about cooking food for your baby. When food is prepared from fresh ingredients by their own mother, this is the best and most nutritious food they can get! Our website has lots of baby weaning recipes such as this Egg free Blueberry pancakes and delicious Black Bean Finger burgers.

It also explains the Four Day Rule. The author of this article is the webmaster of weaningbabyfood.com which is host to plenty of baby weaning purees, baby finger foods and baby weaning techniques for you to try.

Baby Checklist

Newborn Baby Checklist - A Complete List of Newborn Needs For the New Mom

By Laurie Grismore

The long awaited day is almost here! Soon you will hold a precious baby in your arms, and you want everything to be perfect!

Bringing home a newborn baby, especially when it is your first, can be daunting. Such big changes and unknowns can cause a new mom stress. "De-stressify" your preparation with this newborn baby checklist. It will help give you the confidence to know you are prepared!

The following newborn baby checklist can be used as a guideline in the quest to be prepared for your new arrival. While no checklist will have you prepared for EVERYTHING (like finding out your mother-in-law will be coming to "help" for a few weeks), this one ought to come close!

Clothing - Newborn babies grow into the next size very quickly! Don't go crazy purchasing the tiny newborn clothing items, or you may find that your baby has outgrown them before he/she has even had a chance to try them on! By the time your baby is about 8-9 pounds, you will need the 3 month old clothing (these will last until your baby is about 12 pounds). Some larger babies even skip the newborn size altogether!

The quantities listed here are based on the assumption that you will be washing your laundry at least 2 times per week.

• 5-10 newborn sized outfits
• 2 sweaters
• 5-7 sleepwear
• 2-4 wearable blankets or sleep sacks
• 4-6 onsies
• dress clothes
• 2 pairs of mittens (for preventing scratches)
• hats - one for warmth and one for shade
• snowsuit - do NOT use when your baby is in his/her car seat
• 6-10 pairs of socks (more is better because they are so little that they get lost or "eaten" by the washing machine)
• accessories - such as shoes, hair decor, jewelry
• mild laundry detergent

Bathing and Grooming - When my first baby was born, we had very little in the way of baby supplies - and nothing for bathing. Do you know what we discovered? We didn't really need much. He got perfectly clean when I bathed him in the bathroom sink and washed his hair with the kitchen sink hose.

So why did I include most of the following items in this newborn baby checklist? Convenience. There is a LOT to be said for convenience when you have a newborn baby in the house!

• baby tub or baby bathing sponge
• 4 baby washcloths
• 2 hooded towels
• baby lotion
• baby brush
• infant nail clippers
• baby shampoo/body wash
• bath thermometer

Nursery Items - A beautifully decked-out nursery is a fun way to prepare for your new baby. Giving the baby's room personality and then putting away the items he/she will be using makes it start feeling like he will REALLY be arriving soon! Consider:

• dresser
• baby size hangers
• rocking chair
• cd player with soothing cds
• night light
• nursery decor - wall hangings, window coverings, bed skirt

Diapering - "Changing a diaper is a lot like getting a present from your grandmother - you're not sure what you've got but you're pretty sure you're not going to like it." (Foxworthy) No baby checklist would be complete without "covering" this.

• wet wipes - either commercial or home-made
• changing table with a water-proof pad
• 3 washable changing pad covers
• hand sanitizer
• diaper rash remedy
• wipe warmer
• diaper disposal or diaper pail with liners
• basket or diaper holder for keeping diapers orderly If using disposable diapers:
• 10-12 disposable diapers per day OR If using cloth diapers:
• 24-36 cloth diapers
• 8-10 diaper covers
• inserts and liners
• diaper pins if the chosen system calls for them
• diaper sprayer

Feeding - After you have decided whether you will be breastfeeding or bottle feeding, you will want to consider which items you will need to assist you in growing a healthy baby.

Breastfeeding Needs:

• 3-5 nursing bras
• nursing pads - washable or disposable
• breast pump
• nipple cream
• breast milk storage containers
• breast feeing pillow
• nursing cover
• 10 burp rags

Bottle Feeding Needs:

• bottles (BPA free) - start with just a few until you know what your baby will prefer
• nipples (clear silicone)
• formula - don't stock up until you know it will "agree" with your baby
• 10 burp rags
• bottle brush
• bottle warmer
• drying rack
• sterilization bags

Sleeping - Newborn babies spend about 18 out of every 24 hours sleeping. At least some of that time you will want to put him/her down to tend to your own needs. Your baby's safety during that time is paramount. Providing a safe, comfortable, familiar place to sleep will help your baby establish good sleeping habits which will in turn facilitate YOUR sleep. You will need:

• sleeping place - crib with mattress, portable crib, bassinet, Moses basket, or co-sleeper
• 2 mattress pads
• 3 fitted sheets
• 6-8 receiving blankets
• baby monitor
• a small fan for air circulation and white noise

Traveling - Whether it is across town or across the country - you will want to show off your baby (or at least re-stock on diapers). Traveling with a newborn is more complicated than grabbing your keys and walking out the door, but you will be prepared for any trip if you have:

• car seat
• diaper bag
• replacement car seat cover
• stroller
• baby sling or carrier
• blankets of varying thicknesses
• car seat travel bag for air travel
• portable crib

Health - No one likes to think about their baby becoming ill, but sooner or later it is bound to happen. Be prepared by having the following items on hand:

• nasal aspirator/bulb syringe
• petroleum jelly
• digital thermometer
• rubbing alcohol & q-tips (for umbilical cord care)
• infant acetaminophen - use with newborns only under advisement of your pediatrician
• saline nasal spray
• a great pediatrician
• Don't forget to add your baby to your health insurance policy!

Safety - Your newborn won't be mobile for a few months, but you will want to have safety items in place well before that occurs.

• safety gates
• corner/edge bumpers
• safety locks
• outlet covers

Development and Entertainment - Most of your newborn baby's early development will come from the cuddling, singing, talking, and interaction provided by the ones who love him/her the most. A few items that will stimulate and entertain him/her while you are occupied will be beneficial to you both.

• baby mobile or a plastic mirror for the crib
• a few toys of differing textures
• baby swing and/or baby bouncer
• baby book for recording all of the milestones

A common "rookie mom" mistake is caring for her baby to the exclusion of caring for herself. Don't forget to make "mommy care" a priority, too. Add your favorite bubble bath to your newborn baby checklist - and then use it!

Laurie Grismore is the busy mom to 8 great kids ranging in age from 2 to 15. She is the owner of http://www.My-Newborn-Baby-Care.com a site devoted to educating and encouraging parents in caring for their newborn babies. Check out http://www.my-newborn-baby-care.com/newborn-baby-checklist.html to find a printable checklists along with great tips and practical advice for making the first weeks with your newborn baby go smoothly. Copyright - you may freely republish this article provided the text, author credit, the active links, and this copyright notice remain intact.

Baby Activities

Baby Activities - How to Raise a Brighter Baby

By Julie Ashton-Townsend

Teach baby to read from birth. It is the best possible gift you can give your baby. The first three years of life are the best time to do this. All of the things suggested here will help you give your baby a head start in reading, learning and life.

Being a new parent is the most joyous, rewarding and challenging journeys in life. It is also a great responsibility. You hold the future of this tiny person entirely in your hands. What they become depends largely on you! Raise your newborn baby with patience, love and understanding and they will be patient loving and understanding adults. Stimulate their brains at every opportunity and they will find learning easy and fun throughout their lives. Do the things suggested here, FROM DAY ONE and get into the habit and routine of doing them daily and often during the day.

It is important to evaluate the 'brain building' potential of your home, or the nursery which cares for your newborn baby. There are easy things you can do for your baby to make sure they learn all the skills needed to be able to read well and become bright independent learners. Remember the more you baby uses her brain the more connections are made and the easier it is to learn. The basic ideas here are true for all ages of children.

Forget pastel colours for your newborn baby's bedroom. These are to satisfy the tastes of parents not your baby! Babies need bright, bold contrasting colours to attract their attention and to stimulate their growing brains so design a colourful nursery with big bold, eye catching shapes and patterns. The youngest baby enjoys looking at shapes and patterns and will learn form them.

Babies like to gaze at black and white patterns. You can make your own black and white posters and mobiles from the ones given free with this book. Make a simple mobile and change the images often.

Newborns love looking at these so put them in places where your baby can see them when you are changing his nappy or when he wakes up. I changed my babies in the same place in their bedroom. I put black and white images and faces on the walls. I hung a mobile from the ceiling which my children could reach. I changed the toy hanging on the end - which they could reach- regularly.Make some into a black and white picture book and 'read' it with your newborn often. When older you baby can color in the spaces and trace around the shapes. This is the start of you teaching baby to read.

Studies on babies show that they like looking at the human face and in particular their mothers face. They respond to human faces by staring at them. They prefer faces to anything else. Even a new born baby will stare intently at its mother and mimic the mouth movements she makes. Cut large faces out of magazines and put them where you baby can see them. Especially near the changing area. This will give them something to look at every time they are changed. It stops boredom and a cranky baby too by keeping them interested and entertained.

Put an alphabet and number chart or frieze on the wall in your new baby's bedroom. Put pictures and posters on the wall and change them often so your baby doesn't become used them. I used sheets of wrapping paper which comes in every colour and patterns you can imagine. It is readily available at a reasonable cost. Show even the youngest babies the pictures and posters and talk about them every day.

Put a music centre in your baby's room and play nursery rhymes and stories as much as possible. I played music to my children everyday even before they were born. Play and sing along to nursery rhymes and stories every day. My children went to sleep every night to music or a story tape. My nine year old still does. Your baby will soon become familiar with the sounds, words and speech patterns of the human voice.

Sing to, talk to and rock your baby every day. This is one of the most important things you can do to help your baby achieve in life generally. You are communicating love and attention and stimulating your baby's brain. Rocking is important for developing a sense of rhythm which researchers have shown improves language skills.

Join the library and have a look at all the amazing books available. Start your own 'mini library' by buying a nursery rhyme book and a story books. Add to the collection as often as you can. Read to your baby everyday, from day one. The book How to Teach Baby to Read -From Birth will show you all you need to know about giving your baby the best start in learning and learning to read

Give your newborn baby something to focus on and reach out for from day one. Toys which stand up and are stable enough to be placed close to your baby's field of vision are best. Have a good look around toy stores or go to the 7 step learning store.com for ideas. Babies soon learn to grip toys. The more they practice this the better for brain development. Don't underestimate your baby's ability to do things. Always give your baby the opportunity to play with toys which may seem above her age level.

Once you have made a stimulating bedroom for your baby the space will change as you instinctively know that your baby's needs are changing as she learns and develops. You will know to add new things as your baby outgrows the previous stage. It is important to keep things fresh and interesting. You know yourself that familiarity soon creeps in and we don't see things in our environment which were once interesting to us.

Baby Yoga

Benefits of Baby Yoga

By S Matthews

Many brand-new mothers look for a gentle exercise class that will not only help them ease their post-pregnancy bodies back into shape, but will also improve their posture and flexibility while giving them back some pre-baby physical confidence. But finding quality childcare while they waltz off to the gym for an hour or two is not always feasible - either practically or financially.

Baby yoga classes are a fun way for both baby and parent to interact.

Wouldn't it be great to find a class where both mother and baby are welcome, one that actually encourages the child to participate and thus facilitates parent-child bonding at the same time? Well, mother and baby yoga classes are designed to do just that. In fact, studies have shown that the more a tiny baby is touched, the more secure and loved he or she feels. And the more a woman gets back to her pre-baby shape after giving birth, the better she feels as well.

Baby yoga, therefore, can be a win-win situation for everyone. But if the thought of attending any class that begins with the words "Mommy and Me" makes you want to retch, look away now. However, if you have the stomach for a Mommy and Me baby yoga class - and most new moms have big tummies indeed - then this could be the perfect exercise course for you.

Baby Yoga Basics

Forcing two-month-old Arabella or tiny Tristan to do complicated yoga poses might put you off, so think again. Baby yoga is designed with both child and mom in mind, and aims to have both perform safe, gentle exercises that are calming, relaxing and stress-free. Neither parent nor child has to do anything that is too difficult or beyond their abilities: the goal is to go at a gentle, soothing pace, with lots of breaks for feeding, sleeping or screaming.

Classes concentrate on breathing, meditation, stretching and achieving basic yoga postures, which are designed to give new moms inner balance and help them build up their strength after they have given birth. Often the muscles used in childbirth are the ones concentrated on the most, such as the pelvic floor area, the shoulders and the upper back.

The idea is to prepare women for more intense yoga classes once their children are a bit older - and to help the baby not only sleep and eat better, but to feel better overall. Holding your child as you perform the yoga exercises will help the time go by quicker - and helping him or her to do some basic postures, such as the knees to chest pose, can make them feel more comfortable and calm as well.

What to Expect

Baby yoga classes usually take babies from age six to eight weeks until they begin to crawl, depending on the class. Very young infants are usually incorporated into the exercises themselves, with the adults holding them or exercising over them. The key is to follow your baby's lead: often smaller babies sleep while the mother exercises; when they get a bit older they can actually begin to participate.

Yoga is good for new mothers for a variety of reasons. It not only increases flexibility, movement and the heart rate, all of which are important for shedding that pesky baby weight, but it also restores the alignment of the body, helping to put muscles, tendons and ligaments back into place following the previous nine months of pregnancy. Finally, it helps reduce stress, which any new mother knows is an integral part of new motherhood.

Yoga followers say that even tiny children can perform basic yoga postures (see above), which can help them sleep better, digest their food better and be happier overall. "Physically, one short yoga session is the equivalent of being carried and touched all day. At the end of the day your baby will sleep more deeply and healthfully," the It's a Mom's World website proclaims.

"Developmentally, your baby's internal organs will be stimulated, improving the function of the nervous and digestive systems. Psychologically, the baby learns to cope better with stress and enhances the mother-child bond which increases communication between them.

"Yoga is a perfect way to spend quality time with your baby. Babies' in-born love and physical need for movement and touch are combined naturally in the practice of yoga movements, positions and stretches. The pace is slow and concentrated, which is perfect for the baby's ability to integrate and absorb. Go yoga - and have fun with your baby!"

What to Bring

To get the most of your yoga session, make sure you have the following on hand:

Yoga mat. Real yoga mats are best and they are fairy cheap - get one at a good sporting goods store.

Comfortable clothes for you and your baby. This is not a time to dress up little Tiffany Marie to show off to all the other moms, nor is it the right place to squeeze yourself into tight-fitting Spandex workout gear that you last fit into way back in 1988. Wear something that you can move around in - without worrying if it will split!

Drinks for both you and the baby. Don't ruin the moment by allowing you or Junior to get dehydrated. Make sure you have food - or a breast - on hand as well if Junior is likely to need a feed during the yoga session.

Baby massage items. Baby yoga classes often incorporate a bit of baby massage into the class. You will need a cloth or blanket to lie the baby on and some massage oil - olive oil works best.

Diapers. Unless your little genius is toilet-trained by six months, take a few more with than you normally would. If you expose Junior to the open air during a massage, he may wet himself - and you don't want to be caught short.

Blankets. Sometimes babies fall asleep during yoga, which gives their mothers time to have a work-out without any interference. Make sure you bring either a blanket or something equally comfortable to lie your baby down on should he or she actually fall asleep. Don't waste the moment!

Baby yoga benefits both mother and child, with exercises designed to help the adult become more flexible and better balanced, while helping the baby digest food easier and sleep better. The classes also help new moms bond better with their babies, feel more confident as a mother and even make new friends. Be warned: your little one might like the experience so much that you'll soon find yourself signing up for toddler yoga next...

Sarah Matthews is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a Healer at Yodle Local or more Health & Medicine articles at Yodle Consumer Guide.

Best Baby Product

The Best Baby Product

By Melissa Deschamps

If you need to purchase a baby product, the baby blanket is it. There are not many baby items that are as endearing as a baby blanket. They are sometimes referred to affectionately as "blankees." This baby product offers an endless array of styles to choose from. Baby blankets are customizable making them perfect for gift giving. A baby blanket is something that is generally kept and often passed down through the family as a keepsake. Many parents give their children the baby blankets from when they were babies as gifts to their first grandchild. Baby blankets are steeped in tradition.

While you are searching for the right blanket, consider the fabric. Babies have very delicate skin, so it is important to know the types of materials that are generally used for making blankets. There are baby blanket producers that have online stores, as well as traditional stores. Whichever way you shop, there should be details listed of the materials used to make the blanket. You may be shocked at the choices and variations available. A very common material is cotton and then you have your choice of synthetics commonly used in knitted or crocheted blankets. Even if this baby blanket is a planned surprise gift, it is best to check with the parents before your purchase. This will ensure that you do not choose a material that the baby will be allergic to.

Another baby product high on the list is the pacifier. Yes, the "binkie!" However, it is unlikely that a pacifier would be handed down as a tradition like a baby blanket. Most babies naturally have fierce sucking actions. Parents have even shown sonogram pictures with babies sucking their thumb or other finger before they are born! Once they are born that need continues. This is the reason many parents consider the pacifier as a necessity. For babies, sucking soothes them and it is calming. It is usually the first calming thing that parents try when their baby starts to cry.

Babies tend to be quite attached to this baby product. A pacifier is made of a rubber or silicone nipple, a plastic part that acts as a shield around the mouth, and a little handle. Manufacturers make the shield and handle large enough so they are not at risk for choking hazards. Some babies do not like the first pacifier that is given to them. In that instance, the parent may have to test different pacifiers with various nipple shapes to find the right "binkie" for baby.

Baby blankets and baby pacifiers are customizable. This is a nice feature if you are giving either baby product as a gift. Imagine how surprised the parents of the baby will be when they open the gift and it has the baby's name on it! It is a nice touch for the blanket. They will always know whom the blanket originally belonged to. It is also a nice addition for the pacifier because babies toss them out of their mouths often. Personalization is always a nice and appreciated gesture.

Whichever baby product you choose to give, do your research. Babies are very delicate and you should make sure that you are giving a product that is safe. Check for product recalls to ensure you do not buy an unsafe baby product.

Shopping for a great baby product can be tough. For more help and advice, visit the author's web site, Adorababy.com.

Toys for Baby

What Are Developmental Baby Toys?

By Kathy P Baker

The first year of your child's life is a time of great importance for their mental and physical development. How can you help make the most of this time? By giving them the best resources, such as developmental baby toys. Unlike toys that simply entertain your child, these toys are meant to build up your baby's fine motor skills, help with recognition of sights and sounds, familiarity with various textures and brain development. Some of most popular items in this category of toys are baby mobiles, gyms, play mats, jumpers and bouncers. Read on to learn more about each of them and how they can add to your baby's growth!

Baby Mobiles

The baby mobile is classic. It is likely you had one hanging above you as you lay in your own crib. They come in simple forms and then there are the more techie mobiles that are on the market today. There are baby mobiles to fit every nursery theme you can dream up for your little one. The most important aspect of the mobile is that it helps baby to work their neck muscles while strengthening their eyes and allowing for hand eye coordination practice once they pass the pre-reaching point. Your little one will thoroughly enjoy being entertained by a colorful spinning array of objects by day, and at night the steady movement of baby mobiles comfort baby as they drift off to sleep.

Baby Play Mats

Once your baby is ready to partake in some tummy time, this is the best kind of product in developmental baby toys for just that! These colorful play centers provide stimulating fun for your baby just about anywhere, as many available are also take and go friendly. Play mats are most entertaining for 0-8 month old babies. They're soft and textured and come with embedded pictures and playthings (think rattles and flaps) to keep baby busy.

Baby Jumpers

Once your child is beginning to pull themselves up and stand, they'll enjoy jumping around in a jumper! They'll delight in the freedom it offers them, with themes, light and sound adding to the fun. There are many types of baby jumpers on the market, including the more modern forms that stand alone with built in toys for baby to touch and grab, as well as the older jumpers that attach and hang in a doorway. These are simple, but still allow baby to jump around and entertain himself.

Baby Bouncers

Younger babies love lying around in a baby bouncer. Comfortably positioned to support your infant, bouncers allow baby to lay back and enjoy the results of their constant movement. Adorned with colorful often detachable toys hanging just within baby's reach, these developmental baby toys also provide an opportunity to build up motor skills, eye coordination and they're easy to tote around.

Baby Gyms

The baby gym is one of those "must have" first year of life toys, like baby mobiles. These gyms provide endless play that appeal to all of the senses. Soft, bursting with color, shapes, light and sound, these gyms are perfect for babies of all ages. Lay baby down for tummy time and they'll enjoy grasping the attached toys and mirrors or lay them on their back so they can reach for the various objects hanging from the arches.

Remember to always check and make sure the developmental baby toys you purchase meet safety standards and that your baby enjoys them as he or she learns!

If you'd like to see the variety that is available of the products mentioned above, check out the Baby Developmental Toys pages at Learning Toy Stores You'll also find other kinds of learning toys amongst the stores there.

Baby Equipment

Essential Baby Equipment For Your Baby

By Simona Rusnakova

Having a baby is the most exciting part of having a family. After nine months of expecting your baby, you can finally cuddle the sweet, little angel in your arms. All the preparations have been made and parents are always eager to give their baby all the nice surprises the world offers. Baby equipment is necessary to ensure your child's protection and comfort. Variety of baby equipment is available in the market, but there are four essential baby equipments for you baby that you should never miss out.

After giving birth, you can't wait to let your whole family see the new baby you have nurtured for nine long months. You are finally going home.

Most hospitals conduct safety checks on your vehicle before allowing your baby to be discharged from the hospital. Baby car seats are very important to ensure that the baby is safe and secured during your journey home. Baby car seats should be properly installed within your car to protect your child all the time. Travel will also be more convenient for you and your baby if you have a baby car seat present inside your car.

The nursery is your baby's haven. Baby furniture selected with care will provide that nice cozy feeling when your baby gets home. Your child will surely enjoy settling in her crib and sleeping soundly during the first night at home. You should ensure that your baby furniture is free from hazardous materials like small parts that can be easily swallowed and choked on. Soft cushions could also be positioned around your baby's crib if you are using the conventional wooden crib. This will protect your baby from bumps particularly during their crawling stage.

At six months, your baby is learning to sit up and crawl around. She is now able to play on her own and explore the world around. This is the best time to buy baby bouncers. Baby bouncers allow her to play independently and let her enjoy discovering her ability to use her own two feet. This is also a good exercise for her muscles to strengthen her legs. It is the best preparation for your baby as she learns her way to walk and run.

After a few months, your baby eventually learns how to stand and walk around. Cruising around home will be easier for her if she is using a baby walker. Baby walkers act as guide to your child as she discovers her ability to walk. This could be very exciting for the whole family. Your baby's first step is one of the most memorable experiences as a parent. Baby walkers will let them explore every corner of the room. Just make sure that your baby walker is properly secured to ensure that your baby is safe and accident-free.

Babies grow up with just a blink of an eye. After some time, you might wonder how they grew up so fast. But after a while, you realise that this is life and all you have to do is give them all the love and nurturing they need to become successful adults.

This article was submitted by Simona Rusnakova, SEO consultant of 3r.ie, on behalf of StayHome2Shop.com who sell baby equipment ireland, Regatta outdoor clothing, Caribee backpacks, solar products and electric bikes online in Dublin, Ireland.

Baby Teething

Baby Teething 911 - What Parents Needs to Know to Help You Both Through It

By Kyra Bradbury

Once your baby starts teething, there's no way to know how the experience will go. Some babies will be over it in a flash, and others will seem like all they do is cut teeth. For some babies, the experience is drawn out and very painful and yet for others, it's more of a slight inconvenience than anything else. You may be able to feel a lump in your baby's gum before it's big arrival or you may have no clues what-so-ever until the pearly white tooth appears.

Usually teething will begin around the sixth or seventh month. Some babies will begin to cut teeth as early as three months. Late bloomers may not even see their first tooth until one year of age. Generally, though, the pattern of teething will follow genetic patterns. If you received your first tooth at an early age, it's likely that your baby will too. The symptoms of teething can precede the actual tooth by as much as two or three months.

Your baby may experience any combination of the following symptoms of teething:

1. Drooling: Teething stimulates drooling. Some babies will drool more than others. Letting your baby wear a bib will help keep baby nice and dry if the drooling becomes heavy.

2. A Rash Around The Mouth Area: Excess drooling can cause irritation on the tender skin from the constant wetness of the saliva. In order to prevent the irritation, you may wish to wipe your baby's mouth throughout the day. If your baby's skin around the mouth does become chapped and dry use a skin cream that is mild, preferably one that is specifically designed for baby's skin. Speak to your baby's pediatrician for a specific recommendation.

3. Cough Without Cold Or Other Symptoms: The excess saliva once again is the culprit and causes baby to cough or gag sometimes. Sometimes the cough is simply a means of getting much loved attention. Be sure, though, that your baby does not have a cold, allergies or the flu.

4. Biting: The pressure from biting fingers, toys, or anything else for that matter, help your baby relieve the pain of the emerging tooth.

5. Pain & Irritability: The first teeth emerging will generally cause the most pain. Molars are also very painful because of their size, but these teeth will usually not come until after baby's first birthday. Usually babies become used to the pain and can sort of learn to live with it after awhile. If you want to offer relief, you can do so with Motrin (if your baby is over 6 months of age) or Tylenol. Baby Orajel can be used as a topical pain reliever also. Teething rings and teething toys can also offer relief to your baby. Be sure to check with your baby's pediatrician for specific medicine guidelines appropriate for the weight and age of your baby. The pain your baby experiences may cause night waking and ear pulling as well. Be ware that these symptoms can also appear with an ear infection as well. If you are unsure at any time, it's always best to check with your child's pediatrician.

6. Eating Strike: Baby will suddenly refuse preferred foods if he or she has started solids. Offer soft foods or whatever baby will tolerate during these times. If your baby refuses solids for awhile, it need not be of much concern since baby will still get most of his or her nutrition from breast milk or formula. Your baby will sometimes seem to want to nurse all the time and may even get frustrated when the pressure of the suction created by him or her causes more pain. If more than one or two feedings are missed because of this type of problem, be sure to consult your baby's pediatrician for help.

7. Low Grade Fever: Despite many doctors still not willing to make the association between teething and any fever, many experienced moms still swear that teething can bring on a low grade fever (below 101 degrees rectally). Still, if your baby does experience a fever with or without teething it should be treated as with any other low grade fever. Call your baby's pediatrician if the low grade fever continues for more than three days.

Once you are sure that your baby is indeed teething you can help him or her by offering something cold to chew on like a cold teething ring or a frozen bagel or banana. Always use any remedy under close supervision. You can also offer a cold drink in a bottle or cup. Babies often will appreciate cold foods as well, such as cold applesauce, pureed peaches or cold yogurt. Again, children's Tylenol can also be used, but please check with your baby's pediatrician first for the correct dosage.

Kyra Brandbury has been a freelance writer for over ten years and mother of three. She is currently working on her new blog, Stay At Home Mompreneurs.

Perfect Baby

Did Your Baby Break All of Your Expectations of Having the "Perfect Baby"?

By Liliana Lao

You might be wondering why your baby is so different. Your baby seems to communicate his needs with such intensity; very persistent, full of energy, restless, and demanding. Your baby always seems to need constant holding, nursing, and comforting. Your friends' babies on the other hand, sleep through the night, they are calm, and don't mind being held by anyone. Your friends don't seem as tired as you are. They keep saying what an "easy" and "laid back" baby they have. But here you are, exhausted, drained, moody, and thinking, "what am I doing wrong?"

Your baby has a unique personality. Your baby is a high-need/strong-willed baby. High-need because your baby needs to immediately receive what he wants in order to thrive. As you already know, there are no good or bad personalities. Every baby has a need to be held and conforted, but some express their needs more strongly than others, like high-need babies. High-need babies will not give up until their needs are met; they are very persistent. Follow your intuition to offer your baby the level of care that he needs. That doesn't mean watching your baby's every move, every single second of the day. Doing this can actually affect your baby's self-management skills. High need babies really need for you to be very responsive to their needs and not indifferent to them. If you chose to ignore your baby; you will only get short-term results, which means that your baby will learn at a very early age that his voice doesn't matter and will chose to withdraw. The long-term effects will be devastating.

It is important to accept your baby's communication style. One of the most difficult challenges is for parents to overcome the fear of "being manipulated" or "losing control". Your baby is only communicating her needs the best way she knows how. Most of your friends and relatives might tell you to ignore your baby or to let her "cry it out". This is the mainstream advice. Please don't listen to them. Follow your motherly instincts, because they are there for a reason. If you choose to ignore your baby in order to "keep control", your baby will quickly learn that she is not valued, unimportant, and not heard. She will eventually give up and withdraw. And that driven/strong personality will eventually be channeled into other areas, turning into anger and frustration, producting unfavorable results.

This is going to be very tiring for you I'm sure. It's important to not feel sorry for yourself, but to actually not expect too much of yourself. What I mean is to not expect that you will get all your chores done every day. These early months will be extremely draining. You will be very tired. Once you accept your baby's temperament and "let go" of your high expectations; you will be happier. Chores could wait, but your baby can't. You will later see the payoff. You will see your baby's unique personality start to blossom.

Your baby probably wants to be fed more often. Of course feeding your baby will meet his nutritional needs, but your baby loves the skin-to-skin contact, because it is very comforting to him. It will also comfort you to know that according to studies, babies who are fed on demand, cry less than babies who are on a strict and parent-controlled schedule. Don't worry about how many times you feed your baby. Let your baby guide you, as this will also regulate the flow of milk (if you are breast-feeding). Carrying your baby on a sling, "wearing your baby" will also be very beneficial for both of you and will make breast-feeding easier. You and your baby will always be in harmony. Your baby will cry less, will be more calm, and sleep better at night.

This will take a lot of hard work, especially in the early months (even the first couple of years for some high-need children) however, you are helping your baby learn to create an inner peace and inner control of her own. High-Need babies will not establish trust in you, or start learning how to soothe themselves until they feel valued. This takes responsiveness...tons of it =) Don't get trapped in the "convenient parenting" mentality or take to heart the critical comments from your friends and family, telling you that you are "spoiling" your baby, or that you "are not in control". Remember to trust your motherly intuition. Little by little, you'll see that your baby will learn ways to soothe himself.

Liliana enjoys the challenges of parenting and enjoys writing articles on this subject. She has read many books on attachment parenting and about eating foods directly from the source. She deeply cares about the simple joys family and home life can bring. You can check out her website relating to the Conair GS4 Compact Fabric Steamer, for an easy and safe alternative to ironing your delicate fabrics.

Baby Bath

Baby Bath Instruction

By Mary Dillio

9 months may seem like an eternity when you or your partner is expecting; there is an endless amount of work and preparation that needs to be completed before baby arrives. Buying baby clothes, preparing the nursery, cleaning, painting and a variety of other exciting (but tiring) tasks must all be complete before you give birth. Once your new baby arrives, you will find that you are consumed and constantly busy caring for your new baby and the rest of your family. Most new (and old) parents realize they will be too busy to take a break and finish last minute tasks, so why do so many parents remain unprepared when their new baby arrives?

While most parents know that items like diapers, clothes and baby toys are needed, they seem to forget that how and where they will bathe their new baby is a question that remains unknown. Having the proper bathing toiletries, creams and baby friendly sponges are absolute necessities when it comes to bathing your baby. If you are not prepared or do not purchase the right items, you may have to improvise which could lead to rashes, infections or irritated skin for your baby. There are a ton of companies selling baby bath products such as soaps, shampoos and creams on the internet, so if you choose to purchase these items online, it is important to buy from reputable companies.

Before you begin to bathe your baby for the very first time, lay out all of the items you will need so that you never leave your baby unattended if you have to go grab an item. Lay out baby's clean clothes for after the bath, and make sure you have a washcloth or sponge, towel, soap and a clean diaper readily available within reach.

Immerse your washcloth or sponge with warm water at a temperature of less than 120 degrees, ideally between 90-100 degrees. Gently wash your baby's face, removing any debris from the eyes, ears and nose. Do not use soap at this point.

After you have cleaned your baby's face, rinse out your cloth and add a small amount of soap to the warm water and gently clean the baby, starting at the head and making your way down to the diaper area. A lot of cleansers are no rinse, so check the label instructions. Remove the baby from the bath and gently rub until dry with a soft cloth.

If you have already given your baby his or hers first bath, and the umbilical cord or circumcision has healed, your baby is ready for a tub bath. Lay out your soap, shampoo, washcloth and clothes for after the bath. Simply fill your baby tub or clean kitchen sink with water at a temperature of 90-100 degrees. Run your hands through the water to remove any hot spots and test the water with your wrist before placing baby in the bath.

Begin bathing by supporting baby's head and shoulders with one hand, while washing with the other. Wet your cloth with plain water and gently clean baby's face. Add a small amount of mild baby soap to the cloth and gently wash baby, beginning with the shoulders down to the diaper area.

Shampoo, when necessary, should be applied in a very small amount. Gently massage the shampoo into the head and scalp and rinse with washcloth. When you are ready to rinse off baby, always use the existing water, never faucet water. You can use a plastic cup to rinse your baby. Place your baby on a clean towel, pat dry, diaper and then clothe.

Properly bathing your baby will ensure both a happy child and happy parents. Always pay attention to your baby's skin, as many babies may have skin allergies or become irritated easily. Always follow manufacturer's directions when using soap, shampoo or creams.

For more information on bathing your baby, please visit www.babybath.com.

http://www.babybath.com/ Mary M Dillio is President of LuxVine Consulting, an Administrative Consulting Company located in New York City. LuxVine provides back-end office support as well as web content, writing & design services.