Smag31 Over the next six months your toddler will start to replace her baby “babble” with real words to describe things. Her ability to understand what you say will improve much more quickly and you may be surprised to find how easily she follows basic instructions, too. “Your toddler may get frustrated at times. Imagine if … Read more
Weaning can sometimes be overwhelming for your baby, and he’ll take comfort in his regular milk feeds. What’s more, the nutrients in his milk will support his growth and development while he gets to grips with the whole new world of tastes and textures. Q: My baby doesn’t seem remotely interested in anything but milk—how … Read more
Every baby is different, both in the way they approach mealtimes and in their individual tastes. There is plenty to consider when you begin weaning, but try to relax as you introduce your little one to solid foods, and choose amongst these tried-and-tested solutions for the hurdles you might encounter. Q: Where is the best … Read more
If your family has selected an electronic planner (or if you’re still considering this option), then this section is for you. Here, you’ll learn how to set up your electronic scheduling system, train your family in its use, and make sure you’ve input all the supporting information you’ll need to keep the system running smoothly. … Read more
If your family has selected a hard-copy planner (or if you’re still considering this option), then this section is for you. You’ll design a location to keep your new planner and put in place the basic system that you’ll be using to organize your family’s schedule. Things You’ll Need Your new planner Nails and hammer, … Read more
Managing the internet How to ensure safe, effective use The internet invites your child into an arena of learning, friendships, and fun that can be rich and exciting. She can reach out to other children across the globe and interact in real time, peer into the world of others through YouTube, and share something of … Read more
Q: My child seems to want to be online all the time. Could she be addicted to the internet? A: Using the internet can become a compelling and time-consuming pastime for your child. The excitement of making new friends, online gaming, and creating then refining a new persona for herself can keep her online. While … Read more
In the next six months your toddler will be walking, and even running, more steadily, freeing her brain to focus on another vital skill: improving her ability to talk. A great deal of learning continues to take place through play and almost everything you do will offer potential for fun and ways to develop new … Read more
Perhaps the most important, but also most challenging, part of being a parent is finding personal time. You have taken on a role, a label, and a host of expectations about your behavior, your priorities, your choices, and the use of your time, that will transform your life and your vision of yourself. “As a … Read more
Bathing and washing How to clean your baby There are differing views on how to bathe and wash a baby, but the general opinion seems to be that less is more. Some say it is unnecessary to bathe your baby daily, others say if you want to, just use water and, if you want, pH-neutral … Read more
Holding your newborn New parents, particularly first-timers, sometimes worry about picking their baby up or carrying them properly. However, newborn babies are not as fragile as you think. Although of course you still need to be careful when handling your baby, it’s best to trust in your ability. The more you practice, the easier it … Read more
Q: Even though we have a toddler, I’m still scared I’ll drop the baby. Do other dads feel like this? A: This is a normal and natural feeling and affects the majority of all new dads (and many moms!). Babies seem to be such fragile little creatures, especially because of their size compared to you. … Read more
Q: I hate the thought of being in the hospital—how soon can I go home with my baby? A: In most maternity units, there is a degree of flexibility as to how long you remain in the hospital after the birth. If you want to stay for as brief a period as possible, talk to … Read more
This time is an important transition for you and your baby. Whether she’s a slow starter or instant foodie, you’ll both take pleasure in the process of mastering self-feeding, introducing new tastes, and enjoying the world of food. Q: Can I wait longer than six months to introduce first foods? A: It may be tempting … Read more
Your baby’s first spoonfuls are exciting milestone for both you and your baby. It’s only natural to approach weaning with some anxiety—there are lots of things to consider as your baby begins his journey on the road to independence, but it’s a process you’ll both enjoy. Q: How do I know if my baby is … Read more
Q: My daughter sees her father every other weekend, but wants to keep photos of him all over the house. I would rather she did not. A: Your daughter has come up with a way to keep her father present in her everyday life. Maintaining a strong relationship with both of you is known to … Read more
Food allergies are on the rise, but still remain uncommon in little ones, and are very often outgrown. It helps to be aware of the symptoms, and to know where to turn. The best advice is not to panic, and to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. Q: How will I know … Read more
No matter what type of planner your family decides to use, you will always have a certain amount of paperwork that needs to be managed: mail, flyers, invitations, directions, concert tickets. Having an easy-to-use method for handling all of this paper can save your family many hours and much frustration. note EZ Pocket Home-Date Organizer, … Read more
Q: What is a stillbirth? A: A stillbirth is when a baby dies in the uterus after 24 weeks’ gestation before it is born. Losing a baby is very different than other losses, which may be partly due to the fact that we do not expect to lose babies in this day and age of … Read more
Finger foods Melt in the mouth: Steamed soft carrot sticks, broccoli, and cauliflower florets Pear, banana, apple, blueberries, mango, peach, strawberries Avocado Bite and dissolve: Steamed new potatoes Toast fingers Miniature rice cakes Well-cooked pasta shapes Mini sandwiches with soft fillings Bite and chew: Oven-baked potato or sweet potato wedges Cucumber sticks Cheese, cut into … Read more