There are many types of infant carriers and slings on the market, from traditional, simple pieces of fabric to sophisticated backpack carriers with modern features. Picking out the right carrier may be the most difficult part of baby-wearing. Even though some slings and infant carriers are favored by more parents than others, choosing the best one really is a personal decision. The success of a baby carrier depends on how it fits your body size, how well your baby fits into it and whether it fits into your lifestyle. You may want different carriers for different activities.
Throughout the first year of your baby's life, she will undergo so many tremendous changes it will make you wonder what you accomplished in the last 365 days. It's important to be aware of the month-by-month developmental milestones so you can both encourage your child and be aware if there is a problem. But remember, each child progresses at his own pace. So don't be too concerned if your baby does not smile, roll over or walk at exactly the right time. If your child is several months behind on a particular milestone, mention it to your pediatrician.
Many breast-feeding moms find it helpful to freeze expressed milk for times when they are away from their babies. Because of the easy-to-prepare nature of infant formula, though, the need to freeze it does not arise very often. But what happens if you've prepared more than your baby can consume in a day? What if you've opened a can of formula but know you won't be able to use it before it goes bad? Here's the scoop on freezing infant formula.
Selecting a daycare provider is a difficult process for new parents. In-home daycare providers care for children in a home as opposed to a daycare center. The care may be provided either in your home or in the daycare provider's home depending on the arrangement. The daycare provider should be held to certain standards. Define your expectations for the in-home daycare provider before hiring her. A contract outlining the expectations will prevent misunderstandings.
Diabetes can affect individuals of any age, including infants and children. Knowing that your baby has diabetes can be really frightening. But by learning how to perform glucose testing and give insulin, you can help your child to grow up healthy. The first thing you need to do, though, is to keep your own stress level down. Your baby can sense if you feel anxious, so it is up to you to be as brave as your little one.
Developed by Nancy Bayley and published under a title of the same name, The Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) is a test that measures the cognitive, motor and behavioral development of children ages 1 month to 3 years. Specifically, the test is used to illustrate the standard development of children within this age range and isolate those with disabilities or delays who might benefit from early intervention. Used worldwide, the test is administered by specially trained professionals and takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
Infant car seats are created specifically for babies under a year old. They cradle and provide customized support to newborns, and may be the safest option for young babies. Infant car seats can only be used rear-facing and most reach a maximum weight of 20 to 22 pounds, though some may extend to 30 pounds. The seat attaches to a removable base and can be used as a carrier or attached to a stroller. You can purchase extra bases to add to your cars for added convenience. There are many styles of infant seats available, with different sets of features.
You probably learned at your birthing class that your baby must ride in an infant car seat at all times, but you don't remember the nurse talking about when to replace the seat. Infant seats are important. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the leading cause of death in children is traffic accidents.
Parents are often eager for their baby to begin talking and are excited to hear what his first word will be. Many parents are not aware that there are some important speech development milestones during their baby's first year of life. By being aware of infant speech milestones, parents can help encourage their infant's speech development.
Whether weaning your infant off breast-feeding, doing a combo of breast milk and store-bought or not nursing at all, you're likely going to have to choose an infant formula for your baby. Bombarded with advertising from formula brands galore, the decision can seem overwhelming. Go ahead and take those free samples and coupons from the hospital--but remember, the bottom line is there are really just a few major types of infant formulas.
