Oh Baby! 2017

OhBaby!

From Baby Bump to Baby’s

First Birthday The

Everything Planner

A San Joaquin Media Group publication

2017-2018

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Oh

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Getting Ready for Pregnancy

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Finding an Obstetrician

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Nutrition: Eating for the Health of Your Family

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Cover photo by

Steffi R. Photography www.steffirphotography.com

Dressing your Little One

Safety and Baby-Proofing Your Home

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Proper Footwear for Children

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Pediatrician interviews

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Skin and Pregnancy

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Essentials of Baby Shower Etiquette

Baby’s First Tooth

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Baby’s Tooth Chart

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Getting your Body Back

Pregnancy Milestones

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Healthy Brain Development

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Pregnancy Visits

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Showing Off That Bump

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Exercising During Pregnancy

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Babywearing... What It Is and How it Works

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Introducing the Fur-Babies

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It’s Good For You! Making Your Own Baby Food

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Your Baby Registry Budgeting for Baby...

Now and in the Future

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Help your Child Get Ready to Read

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Baby’s Early Education

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Baby’s Nutrition: Learning the Dance of Breastfeeding

Vaccine Tracker

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Safe Sleep For Your Baby

Know the Signs of a Speech or Language Disorder

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Infant Reflux

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Your Baby’s Vision

Yoga for Pregnancy Emotional Support during Pregnancy and Postpartum

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Preparing Children for Pregnancy and a New Baby Prenatal and Infant Care Chiropractic

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Finding the Perfect Name

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Popular Baby Names for 2017

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Planning Baby’s Birth

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Hospital Bag Checklist

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How Will I Know When I’m In Labor?

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What to Expect at the Hospital: A Guide to Labor and Delivery

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Labor Memories

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Your Baby’s Birth Story

Name Games

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THE RECORD • RECORDNET.COM • PROPEL

Read Aloud Every Day!

Common Questions to Ask Your Pediatrician

Your Pregnancy Month by Month

Risk Factors in Pregnancy

For more information or to get a copy of Oh Baby! contact The Record 209-546-8200

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Baby Nursery Design in 12 Easy Steps

Choosing a Pediatrician

Beyond Prenatal Vitamins

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Shannon Lado, Rockabye Photography Stephanie Rodriguez, Steffi R. Photography

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Bonding with Baby

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PUBLISHER: Roger Coover

DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Jason Ente Jack Jacobs Angela Krieger Dan Loeffelbein Sylvia Matus

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Choosing the Right Child Care

Baby Rooms on a Budget

Staff

EDITOR: Robin Good

2017-2018

Ultrasound/Sonograms An Essential part of Prenatal Care

Identifying Warning Signs of Pregnancy Danger

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Deitra Kenoly

Baby!

Birthstones The Beauty... The Love

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Hand and Footprints

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The Baby Is Here!!!

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Baby Milestones

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Tracking Your Baby...

Developmental Milestones

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Pregnancy Visits

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Baby’s First Birthday

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The End Of Infancy Tracking Your Toddler & Child

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What Do My Parents Think Today?

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Getting Ready for

Pregnancy

What most couples don’t realize when considering a baby is that it involves a lot of thought and planning. It’s not enough to be mentally ready – you have to be physically ready (fit), and healthy. This gives you a head start to having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

How to get Pregnant

Avoid Stress

As many of you know, conception is not as easy as it seems. While a few get lucky and conceive quickly, for others it can take longer than anticipated - sometimes years. By making a few healthy choices and lifestyle compromises you can increase your odds of getting pregnant. From eating the right foods, to losing weight and cutting down on caffeine and alcohol, you can make a direct impact on your ability to conceive.

If getting pregnant is high on your priority list, here is what you can do to increase your chances:

High stress levels can wreak havoc on your hormonal system, thereby affecting ovulation and conception.

Eat Healthy

An occasional drink may not majorly impact fertility, but research has shown that alcohol impairs fertility and harms the developing fetus.

There is nothing like a well-balanced diet to trigger your baby making process. Make sure to get ample doses of protein, zinc, iron, and Vitamin C to enhance your chances of conception.

Say no to Smoking Smoking affects fertility and also damages the ovaries. If you are considering pregnancy there is no better time to kick the habit!

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Fitness Matters Exercise regularly. Walk, swim, cycle, or hike. Anything that gets you up and moving will do the trick. Being underweight or overweight can make conception harder and affect your baby’s health.

Keep Away from Alcohol

Frequency Have frequent sex to increase your chances of conception. Most fertility experts feel that infrequent sex at the best time of the cycle is one of the most common causes of infertility.

Get to Know your Ovulation Cycle Timing sex during ovulation is a great way to speed up your chances of getting pregnant. If you have a regular 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation is most likely to occur mid-cycle around day 14.

How do you know you’re ovulating?

Clear indications are: • Your cervical mucus becomes clear and slippery toward your ovulation date.

• There is a slight rise in body temperature after you have ovulated.

The Signs of Pregnancy One of the early positive signs of pregnancy is missing your period. This may differ from person to person. Here are more symptoms that could confirm your pregnancy: • Food Aversions • Frequent Urination • Mood Swings • Fatigue • High Basal Body Temperature • Tender, Swollen Breasts • Darkened Areola • Food Cravings • Morning Sickness • Positive Home Pregnancy Test

Stages of Pregnancy The nine-month pregnancy span is divided into three periods known as trimesters. During each of these trimesters, there are significant developments that occur.

First Trimester The baby grows quickly in this period. From being a tiny embryo, the fetus grows to the size of a kidney bean. It is continuously moving with its heart beating quickly and intestines forming. The earlobes, eyelids, mouth, and nose are also taking shape.

Second Trimester In the beginning of the second trimester, your baby is about 4 1/2 inches long and weighs about 45 grams from head to toe. The baby now has fingerprints! As the weeks go by the skeleton starts to form and the baby develops the ability to hear. You’re likely to feel the “butterfly kicks” as a fluttering sensation that begins between weeks 18 and 22.

Third Trimester In this final trimester your baby gains more weight. She/he can blink their eyes, and wrinkled skin starts to smooth. They also begin to grow fingernails, toenails, and real hair. At full term, the average baby is more than 19 inches long and weighs nearly 7 lbs.

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Finding an

Obstetrician How can I find an obstetrician to care for me during my pregnancy?

If you’re seeing a gynecologist you like who practices obstetrics as well, you may want to ask him or her to care for you during your pregnancy - particularly if you like the hospital where the doctor attends births.

If you need to find an obstetrician, ask one of your healthcare providers to recommend someone or talk to your friends or relatives who have recently had a baby or who work in healthcare in your area. Childbirth educators are also a good source for referrals and friends.

If you don’t come up with any recommendations on your own, try calling the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, in Washington, D.C., at (202) 638-5577. They can give you names of boardcertified ob-gyns in your area. You can also visit the ACOG website (www.acog.org) to find a doctor in your zip code.

What criteria should I use to choose my obstetrician?

Only you can decide which are the most important considerations for you – it’s a very personal decision.

Keep in mind that you may be able to narrow your list of choices with a simple phone call. There’s no need to meet with a doctor who isn’t in your network of providers if that’s a requirement for your insurance coverage.

Here are some other things to consider: Your Health History Finding a physician with whom you are comfortable is very important. The ability to relax and ask questions with your obstetrician is vital to maintaining a positive relationship and pregnancy.

Remember - if you suspect you may be pregnant or if you have taken a positive pregnancy test, make an appointment with your doctor to ensure that you will have a happy and healthy nine months!

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Do you have any chronic illnesses - such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, heart disease, or diabetes - or previous complications that may require special care? If so, ask the doctors you’re considering what experience they have caring for patients with your circumstances, and consider whether you should be cared for by a perinatologist (a doctor who specializes in high-risk births).

If you’ve previously had a c-section, would you like to try to have a vaginal birth this time? In that case, you’ll want

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Compatibility Pregnancy and childbirth are exciting, but they can also be stressful. So the best healthcare partner is one you feel comfortable with and whom you can communicate easily.

The Anatomy of Prenatal Visits You will probably need to free up your schedule to allot ample time to clear your doubts and apprehensions during the initial stages of your pregnancy as well as what to expect over the next few months. If possible, it would also be advisable to invite your partner to the doctor’s consultation.

During the first meeting, the doctor will be able to give you the expected delivery date of the baby.

This estimation of the date is also important for careful evaluation of the monthly growth of the fetus. For women with irregular menstrual cycles, doctors usually recommend ultrasound scans to get a clearer picture of your delivery due date. Mothers-to-be will be asked to record their height, weight, and blood pressure to have a reliable assessment of health. In some cases, PAP tests may be required to screen for cervical cancer.

On prenatal visits, blood tests are also conducted

Questions for your Doctor...

How many doctors are in the practice – will I have a primary and what are the chances that doctor will deliver my baby? to make sure that both the provider and the hospital are supportive of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).

The Doctor’s Outlook Find out the doctor’s attitude about issues that may be important to you, such as the routine use of interventions like IVs, continuous electronic fetal monitoring, and episiotomy.

You can’t predict what your individual situation will require, but you can get an idea of the general approach your doctor has to your care…not to mention his or her practice patterns.

You may also want to determine the doctor’s feelings about having a doula or other support person/people present at the birth besides (or in addition to) your partner.

Is the doctor supportive of natural childbirth, if that is what you’re interested in? Is breastfeeding encouraged?

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What is the hospital affiliation?

What is the cesarean rate?

Does the doctor or the group practice perform episiotimies as a matter of course?

What is the doctor’s attitude about patients having a birth plan with personal preferences?

How does the doctor feel about pain medication during birth?

If I happen to be a high-risk pregnancy – what is the doctor’s experience?

How many babies do you deliver each year?

to screen for certain diseases such as: • Mumps • HIV • Measles • Kidney Disorders • Rubella • Diabetes • Syphilis Apart from these tests, the doctor will ask you about your lifestyle and eating habits and may ask you to make the appropriate changes to accommodate your pregnancy.

What to Expect in Future Visits After your first prenatal visit, you may need to see your doctor every four weeks or so until the 28th week of pregnancy, after which you will need to see each other more often. In addition to these checkups, you may also want to take advantage of other screening methods to ensure normal development of the baby. The important key here is to discuss these options with your doctor – seek his advice and expertise.

A sonogram or ultrasound will also be conducted. You will be advised to take multivitamins that contain iron and folate to ensure you are getting enough nutrients in your diet. If you have questions, be sure to list them so you can discuss with your doctor. You’ll both feel better when you understand each other – relax – it’s key.

Ask Yourself...

How comfortable do you feel with your doctor?

Do you find it easy to ask your doctor questions?

Does the doctor explain things clearly and completely?

Does the doctor seem like someone who will respect your wishes?

Before you move on to someone else, you might want to talk to the doctor about your concerns. If the problem can’t be resolved, or your worries aren’t addressed, don’t hesitate to change obstetricians or consider whether a midwife might be a better fit for you.

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Eating for the Health of Your Family

Nutrition:

to eat in the first trimester because of nausea. Focus on small and frequent snacks/meals that are protein rich (nuts and seeds, legumes, dairy, and lean animal) and always pair a carbohydrate with a healthy fat or lean protein. It is easy to mistake nausea with hunger and thirst. Try adding lemon, lime, mint, or ginger to your water or hot tea. These are natural ways to manage nausea. Adding magnesium rich foods can help as well: pumpkin seeds, spinach, Swiss chard, and chocolate.

You’re pregnant! You’ve never had a better reason to eat healthy. A developing baby depends solely on the transfer of nutrients from the mother. These nutritional building blocks help maximize brain development, growth of all organs, and develop the integrity of your baby’s immune system The quality and the quantity of nutrition that you eat, the pollutants, drugs and infections that your body is exposed to during fetal development, and the stress level and state of mind that you adopt while pregnant are all factors that shape your baby, your life, the lives of your grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. That’s right, not only can you grow a healthy child, but you can also optimize the health of your family for three generations. Balance in your lifestyle choices can bring vital health to your pregnancy.

FIRST TRIMESTER In the first trimester of pregnancy by week 6, your baby has a beating heart, and by the 10th week of pregnancy you will have created all of the organs your child will have for the rest of their lives. During the first 13 weeks, it is common to feel nauseous, fatigued, and moody. Don’t worry, all those symptoms are perfectly normal, and you will not have to eat more now than if you weren’t pregnant. It’s often hard

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SECOND TRIMESTER In the 2nd trimester your baby is laying down new bone.

Bone building nutrients are a focus in the 2nd trimester.

Most of us know the role that calcium plays in strong bones, but did you also know that bones rely on vitamins A, D, and K, as well as the minerals boron, molybdenum, manganese, and magnesium? Focus on colorful fruits and vegetables daily to consume all of these vitamins and minerals. The goal is at least 1 food from each color daily: blue/purple, red, orange, yellow, white/tan, and green. The easiest way to achieve this goal is to make a daily smoothie loaded with fruits and veggies. Spinach is the mildest green vegetable to hide in a smoothie. Try a couple big handfuls, you’ll never know it is there!

THIRD TRIMESTER Did you know that your baby’s brain grows by 260% in the 3rd trimester alone? Now that’s brain power! Focus on brain building nutrients in weeks 28-40 to help maximize cerebral development: protein, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, vitamin A, vitamin D, and B vitamins. All your healthy eating is starting to pay off. Even if you can’t see your baby eating, they are swallowing amniotic fluid daily and with it comes all the flavors of the foods you have been eating.

Recent studies show that you can influence the palette of your child starting in utero. By choosing foods that have strong and complex flavors such as herbs and spices, and colorful fruits and vegetables, you can prime your baby to enjoy diverse flavors before food introduction.

TOP NUTRIENTS FOR PREGNANCY AND WHERE TO FIND THEM Protein—promotes cell growth and blood production.

Protein is a long-lasting fuel source for your body as your energy requirements are in high demand. Found in lean meat, fish, poultry, egg whites, legumes, nuts and seeds, tofu, and tempeh.

Carbohydrates—your body’s #1 fuel source. Found in whole grains, non-starchy and starchy vegetables, fruits, legumes, and dairy/dairy alternatives.

Fat—promotes healthy hair, skin, eye, nail, and membrane development and is a key part of your body’s energy stores.

Found in olive oil, olives, avocado, coconut oil, sunflower oil, dark chocolate, nuts and seeds, seafood, and meat.

Vitamin A—an antioxidant and fat-soluble vitamin that helps create skin, eye, brain, and bone health, and fights off viral infections. Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, bell peppers, parsley, Swiss chard, and collard greens.

Vitamin C—an antioxidant and water-soluble vitamin that works in harmony with iron in your body. Vitamin C is also a co-factor in the production of L-carnitine. Vitamin C helps with muscle cramps, constipation, and is the key in collagen—daily Vitamin C helps your stretching skin and decreases the risk of perineum tears at delivery. Found in red bell peppers, kiwi, strawberries, parsley, broccoli, and citrus.

Vitamin D—promotes a strong immune system, regulates insulin and blood sugar, lowers the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, reduces the risk of asthma and wheezing in your baby, increases the birth weight for your baby, and decreases the risk of postpartum depression. Found from the SUN! 20 minutes of a pinking dose of sunshine daily yields 20,000 IUs of vitamin D. Food sources include: egg yolks, sardines, cod, shrimp, and dairy products.

B Vitamins—B6, B12, and Folate—these water-soluble vitamins play their biggest role in cerebral development and decreasing the risk of neural tube defects. The neural tube opens and closes in the 1st 4 weeks of pregnancy.

Taking B vitamins prior to conception is the best way to optimize cerebral health. B vitamins are energy producers, red blood cell formers, nervous system health regulators, mood improvers, and sleep givers. We like them. Found in nutritional yeast, bananas, pork, green leafy veggies, legumes, yellow fruits and veggies, whole grains, and nuts and seeds.

L-Carnitine—an amino acid that plays a crucial role in decreasing the risk of gestational diabetes. It is a big energy giver as well. Focus on this nutrient especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Found in red meat and pork, avocado, artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, garlic, and parsley.

Calcium—strong bones and teeth, muscle contraction, and nerve function. Take calcium apart from iron as they bind in the body. Found in dark green leafy vegetables, rosemary, yogurt, kefir, milk, salmon, and sardines.

Iron—crucial for red blood cell production, healthy brain health and myelin sheath (fatty coating on all neurons) formation, and energy production. Found in lean red meat, spinach, pumpkin seeds, kidney beans, tofu, Swiss chard, and edamame.

Zinc—a mineral that helps balance blood sugar, is an immune system regulator, supports optimal sense of taste and smell, is crucial in wound healing, and helps you make prolactin: the hormone that helps you produce breastmilk.

Found in crimini mushrooms, spinach, beef, lamb, summer squash, and calf’s liver.

Probiotics—friendly bacteria that colonize in your gut to help boost your immune system health. 80% of your immune system comes from your gut lining. Probiotics help protect you and your child from infection, improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, and decrease the risk of allergies in your child. Found in kefir, yogurt, kimchi (fermented vegetables), sauerkraut, tempeh and natto (fermented soy beans), and miso (soy paste).

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Ultrasound/Sonograms:

An essential part of Prenatal Care

For many Moms-to-be, a first ultrasound is a life-changing experience. As a medical procedure, it is one that patients look forward to.

A fetal ultrasound or sonogram is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of a baby in the uterus. An ultrasound can help your doctor evaluate your baby’s growth and development as well as gauge the progress of your pregnancy.

Your first ultrasound will typically be done between 18 and 20 weeks, but you may have one before 12 weeks to confirm your due date. You may also have an earlier ultrasound — or more than one — if yours is a high-risk pregnancy, if you have any pain or bleeding, if you have a history of having children with birth defects, or if another prenatal test or exam shows something abnormal. In addition, you’ll have additional ultrasounds if you have a chronic illness such as diabetes or a history of ovarian cysts or fibroids.

A first trimester ultrasound exam is done to evaluate the presence, size, and location of your pregnancy. It also helps your doctor to evaluate any problems, screen for abnormalities, or confirm a diagnosis. If your baby’s health needs to be monitored more closely, additional ultrasounds will be recommended.

What happens during an ultrasound? After you lay down on the exam table, a small amount of gel is applied to the skin of your abdomen. A device called a transducer is applied to your skin, sending high-frequency sound waves into your body that reflect off the internal structures. The echoes are received by the transducer and turned into a picture on the screen.

All fetuses are approximately the same size in the early weeks of pregnancy, so a sonogram allows your doctor

to approximate your due date. If you have your sonogram between 7 and 13 weeks, your doctor can set your due date within about 3 days!

A mid-pregnancy ultrasound is done at around 20 weeks. This sonogram is also called the anatomy scan.

Your doctor will listen to the baby’s heartbeat, check for physical abnormalities, check the organs, determine if there’s more than one baby (twins!), measure the amount of amniotic fluid, check the location of the placenta, and measure your baby to be sure he or she is the right size for his or her gestational age. And yes – determine the sex of your baby…This is the exam where you can catch a glimpse of your baby – and go home with a picture or two!

When properly done, an abdominal ultrasound poses no risk to you or your baby. In fact, there are many benefits to checking on your baby’s development during pregnancy.

It is generally advised that an ultrasound be performed only if medically indicated.

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Your Pregnancy

Month by Month

PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

One Month

Four Months

Seven Months

Your baby is an embryo consisting of two layers of cells from which all her organs and body parts will develop.

Your baby is now about 5 inches long and weighs 5 ounces. His skeleton is starting to harden from rubbery cartilage to bone.

By now, your baby weighs about 3 pounds and is more than 15 inches long. She can open and close her eyes and follow a light.

Two Months

Five Months

Eight Months

Your baby is now about the size of a kidney bean and is constantly moving. He has distinct, slightly webbed fingers.

Eyebrows and eyelids are now in place. Your baby would now be more than 10 inches long if you stretched out her legs.

Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds. His layers of fat are filling him out, making him rounder, and his lungs are well developed.

Three Months

Six Months

Nine Months

By now your baby is about 3 inches long and weighs nearly an ounce. Her tiny, unique fingerprints are now in place.

Your baby weighs about a pound and a half. His wrinkled skin is starting to smooth out as he puts on baby fat.

The average baby is more than 19 inches long and weighs nearly 7 pounds now, but babies vary widely in size at this stage

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Identifying Warning Signs of

Pregnancy Danger

For many pregnant women and expectant parents, the whole pregnancy phase is fraught with physical and emotional changes. Pregnancy should be the time for women to be vigilant about their health. Pregnancy complications are not uncommon and while most problems may be relatively mild and can be immediately treated, in other cases, warning signs can carry some significant health risks to the child, mother and possibly both.

Although it is generally advised for pregnant women to have frequent doctor visits, it is equally important to be aware of the possible danger signs to look for during pregnancy. These include the following signs: • Vaginal bleeding • Sudden weight gain • Fever • Chills • Seeing spots • Persistent headache • Burning sensation when urinating • Vomiting • Blurred and/or double vision • Lower abdominal pain • Thigh pains • No baby movements for 12 hours • Premature cramping • Persistent lower back aches • Nausea

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Miscarriage Bleeding during the first trimester can be a sign of possible miscarriage. According to statistics, about 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. These incidents usually occur when a woman is not aware that she is pregnant. Clots, bleeding and cramping are among the most common signs of miscarriage.

Ectopic Pregnancy There are some cases the fertilized egg may not reach its correct position in the uterus and the embryo grows on the fallopian tube. Since it grows in an abnormal location, it causes tears in the blood vessels and delicate structures.

It is known to display the following symptoms: lower back pains, nausea, lower abdominal pain, and cramping. This can require surgery to remove the non-viable embryo.

Premature Labor One of the most common problems of pregnancy is premature labor and delivery. Babies born prematurely run the high risk of having respiratory problems and underdeveloped lungs.

Hypertension Elevated blood pressures are a common complication that occurs in 3 percent of pregnancies. It can cause some adverse effects on the placenta as well as the fetus. Severe elevation of blood pressure can cause pain in the abdomen, fluid retention, seeing spots, and headaches.

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Beyond Prenatal In recent years it has become common practice for any woman who is pregnant to take a prenatal vitamin. Every obstetrician recognizes the need for the intake of certain vitamins and minerals while carrying a baby. There are nutrients that are necessary for the normal development of the fetus and those that prevent health problems when the baby is born. Folic acid is important in preventing birth defects; and it has been scientifically proven that DHA, the essential fatty acid for the brain, is essential and lessens the chance of the mother having post partum depression -- the baby takes much of this nutrient while in the womb.

Recent studies show that supplementing with DHA can increase the length of the pregnancy by up to six days which helps the mother carry to a healthy or full term. You can also get DHA through the diet -- fatty fish and algae. Taking an additional calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin D supplement, preferably in liquid form is also recommended. This will enhance the formation of strong bones and good bone structure.

Glutathione is a master antioxidant that can be very supportive in the development and growth of the fetus. In the placenta it detoxifies polutants before they reach the developing child.

A probiotic can help enhance the immune system which can be suppressed during pregnancy. Probiotics can also help with constipation which is often an issue at this time.

Other vitamin and mineral supplements and herbs that can be taken to enhance the health of the baby and the mother are:

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Vitamins

Red Raspberry leaf tea has been found to be helpful throughout the pregnancy and has been shown to prevent miscarraiges as it strengthens the uterus. By strengthening the uterus, it can be helpful in labor as it makes contractions more worthwhile. It is said to strengthens the mother’s immune system, can help ease morning sickness, and promotes better circulation.

Studies have shown that women who take red raspberry have a reduced incidence of birth interventions. It contains antioxidants, is high in vitamins C, E, and D, helps the uterus return to normal size and increases milk production.

Herbs can be a touchy subject when carrying a baby and it is wise to confer with a herb professional as some herbs can be dangerous.

Herbs that can be taken and that can be very helpful are: • Peppermint leaf – helps to relieve nausea • Ginger root – also helps to relieve nausea • Chamomile – safe to take for rexaxation Some herbs that should be avoided are: • Mugwort • Buckthorn • Goldenseal • Yarrow • Wormwood • Hops • Rhubarb • Rue • Red Clover • Cascara sagrada • Comfrey Again, always check with a herb professional and your doctor before taking herbs.

Risk Factors in Although many pregnancies are considered normal and only need standard prenatal care from an Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB-GYN) provider, there are certain circumstances that may require you or your baby to have additional testing, monitoring and treatment. Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists have the expertise and services to help manage high-risk pregnancies.

Pregnancy

• Heart or kidney disease • Hypertension (high blood pressure) • Gestational Diabetes • Multiple-birth pregnancy • Seizure disorders • Blood clotting disorders • Advanced maternal age • Preeclampsia (toxemia) • Infectious diseases • Repetitive pregnancy loss • Suspected abnormal fetal growth In some cases, a pregnancy may be considered high risk if the mother has a family history of the following diseases: • Cardiac disease • Renal disease • Gastrointestinal disease • Cystic fibrosis Maternal Fetal Medicine providers are experienced in a wide variety of complex high risk maternal fetal conditions and will partner with you to improve care for mom and baby/babies. By working with your OB-GYN provider, the specialist can help co-manage the high-risk pregnancy to ensure that you are closely monitored.

Maternal Fetal Medicine Services Include: • Genetic counseling • Pre-conception counseling • First trimester screening • Second trimester screening • Evaluation of fetal anomalies and growth disorders • Non-invasive prenatal testing

Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists have advanced expertise in obstetric complications of pregnancy and their effects on the mother and baby. These providers are fully trained and qualified OB-GYN physicians who, upon completing a three-year fellowship, are certified as subspecialists by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). This additional training allows the providers to care for women with issues deemed to be high risk to the mother or baby; including, but not limited to:

Some women with high-risk pregnancy symptoms may require a single consultation with a Maternal Fetal Medicine provider before or during pregnancy to help them prepare and to provide guidance to their obstetrician for managing their high-risk pregnancy. Other women may require ongoing specialist care throughout the pregnancy to help monitor the health of mother and baby by performing comprehensive fetal assessments with ultrasound and/or invasive evaluations.

Following delivery, a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist may be consulted to diagnose or manage postpartum symptoms related to the high-risk pregnancy. Ask your OB-GYN provider about the Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists in your area.

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Pregnancy

Milestones

Record these important milestones, along with your emotions at the time.

They’ll make terrific entries in your little one’s book!

First time I heard my baby’s heartbeat: __________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time it really sank in that I was going to be a mom: ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time a stranger asked me if I was pregnant: __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I experienced morning sickness: _______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I bought a new-baby outfit: ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I wore a maternity dress: _____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I couldn’t button my pants: ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time my parents found out I was having a baby: ______________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I saw my baby on an ultrasound:_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I could not longer see my feet: ________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I felt my baby hiccup: ________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ First time I felt the baby kick: __________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Healthy Brain

Brain development begins early! Experiences, before birth and in the first few years of life, form connections in the brain. Relationships with the important people in a baby’s life build these pathways and create the structure of the infant’s brain. This period has the most opportunities—and vulnerabilities—for the development of the brain.

Research shows that what happens during the first five years of life is critical to healthy child development. Head Start’s comprehensive focus on the five central domains of birth to 5 developments is essential to children getting ready for school.

Head Start programs offer services that support families and strengthen communities so that children are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. They focus on early identification, treatment, and health promotion. Staff uses these health strategies to make sure children engage in learning. They are critical parts of Head Start’s school readiness activities.

Early brain development is influenced by your babies’ daily experiences with you and your family – those who love your child.

Your baby’s brain development begins at conception and while in the womb. Your genes, your environment, your health, and your experiences during pregnancy all play a part in your baby’s brain development. If you are planning your pregnancy, start taking care of yourself before you try to get pregnant.

During the first trimester, brain structure begins and the neural tube is formed – this is the beginning of nervous system tissue; the cerebral cortex (the outer layer of the brain) is formed; and hormones are released that determine the gender of the baby.

During the second trimester, the brain becomes fully developed (though it is not its full size); the fetus can sense taste, smell, and hear sound; at the end of this trimester, the central cortex splits in to 2 separate hemispheres.

During the third trimester, your baby’s brain triples in size; the baby can also see and hear (recognizing familiar voices). The baby is ready to be born.y’s environment (your body) healthy.

Make sure your body is clean and free of toxins and hazardous materials: alcohol, tobacco, lead, pesticides, mercury, dioxin, marijuana, and cleaning chemicals; Eat healthy: take vitamins and minerals, eat fruits, vegetables, whole cuts of meat (protein); Drink lots of water as this helps with aching joints, gives nutrients to the baby, promotes good health for your entire pregnancy; Exercise properly: gentle yet stimulating exercise increases the blood flow to all parts of your body (consult your doctor if you have questions or start a new exercise routine); Gain a healthy amount of weight: your doctor will help you monitor your weight gain and tell you what amount is right for you and your pregnancy; Sleep: Sleep is good for everyone – you and the baby; Listen to music – classical, jazz, and instrumental – music stimulates areas of the brain that are not stimulated in any other way and enhances brain function.

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Development

Read about your pregnancy: Know what is happening to your body, what happens in childbirth, and best practices for your care; And then the baby is born…Your baby’s well-being, and actual survival is dependent on you and your ability to nurture, make them feel safe, and make them feel protected. Your baby expects that all of these important necessities will be met. When met, they experience feelings that stimulate the brain and in turn, the baby gains confidence in his/her relationships, and they build solid attachments. They learn about loving relationships and their confidence in these relationships supports intellectual and language development. Your child can feel confident to explore and understand the world, can develop self-regulation, learn to build and enhance their relationships, and ultimately thrive in the world.

When not met, the baby struggles with these relationships and their confidence and development suffers. When a baby is abused, neglected, or sees negative behavior from their caregiver(s), the accompanying stress can result in learning, behavior, and health issues.

How The Brain Develops At birth, the brain has 200 billion brain cells/neurons. The brain also grows 1.7 grams per day during the baby’s first year – 60% of the infant’s energy intake from food is used for brain growth. Add a loving and interactive parent and all needs are met. At one year, the infant has about 70 words.

From 1 to 2 years, communication across the different areas of the developing brain occurs rapidly. DHA and omega-3 fatty acid, and choline are critical to the developing brain. Your child becomes independent and interested in new things (or everything!). At 16 months, a toddler’s vocabulary explodes.

From 2 years and up toddlers have more than 100 trillion cell connections – the most they’ll have in their entire life. Calcium and vitamin D, helps to strengthen their bones and teeth. By 2 years, most toddlers have a 300-word vocabulary.

What Happens and Where in the Brain: • Cerebellum: coordinates movement • Occipital Lobe: processes input from the eyes • Parietal Lobe: processes touch, taste, pain, pressure, heat and cold • Frontal Lobe: coordinates speech, thought, short-term memory storage • Prefrontal Cortex: important in planning, prioritizing, and complex decision-making • Temporal Lobe: receives sound signals and coordinates language • Good nutrition leads to more stable moods, increases the ability to pay attention, and improves the memory.

Loving and consistent caregiving leads to a brain that has the ability to learn to delay gratification, problem solve, and have empathy for others which is essential for success in school and in life.

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Pregnancy

Visits

Date:_________________________________________________________________________________________ The week of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________________________ Weight:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Weight gained since the start of my pregnancy:_____________________________________________________ Blood pressure:________________________________________________________________________________ Fundal height:_________________________________________________________________________________ Baby’s heart rate:_______________________________________________________________________________ Other tests:___________________________________________________________________________________ Prescribed medications:_________________________________________________________________________ What I can expect before my next prenatal visit:____________________________________________________ Instructions from my doctor:_____________________________________________________________________ How much weight should I gain:_________________________________________________________________ Notes:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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Showing off that

Pregnancy may change your figure, but the pounds you gain give you a different kind of beauty. It’s important to maintain your style – you’re still you – you’re just pregnant – it’s time to show off that baby bump! Yes, show off the bump in style!

#1 – Get the basics – a couple of pair of jeans that fit with your lifestyle — skinny, boyfriend, bootcut, jeggings – today’s pregnancy jeans are made by designers and that pregnancy panel comes in many cuts and sizes. #2 – Get a couple of stretchy lycra dresses – yes, clinging lycra to show off your baby bump. This type of dress will carry you through any special occasion. #3 – Get a few maxi dresses – these dresses go

Bump!

night with the change of a top…all while keeping you comfortable and in shape (yes, you can workout during pregnancy).

#5 – Get some jackets and cardigans – these will change your look from casual to dressy and look great with dresses, skirts, and leggings (not to mention, those jeans). #6 – Get regular clothing in a size or two larger than your normal size…this way you stay true to your style.

#7 – Tanks and tees – these will be your lifesavers… pair with your jeans or leggings and a cardigan and you look pulled together.

#8 – Accessorize – scarves, jewelry, and shoes are

casual, can be paired with a cardigan, sandals, boots, or flats – they dress up and they dress down.

important. They can also add a touch of color and style to an outfit.

#4 – Get some workout wear for your growing belly. You’ll find that athleisure-wear goes from day to

Whatever your style, stay with it, be comfortable, be YOU!

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Exercising during Pregnancy helps keep you

Healthy

Exercise During Pregnancy - Myth Broken It is a myth that exercising during pregnancy can be harmful to the unborn as well as the mother. In fact, exercising during pregnancy is beneficial for both the mother and the child. It reduces physical discomfort, and also reduces stress and labor length. Here’s a list of frequently asked questions with answers about exercise during pregnancy:

Is it safe to do workouts during pregnancy?

Working out during pregnancy is not only safe, but healthy if you do not have any complications during the pregnancy period. It is recommended that you consult your doctor or midwives and get their approval.

Why is exercise necessary during pregnancy?

Research tells us that working out or mild exercise during pregnancy helps in reducing backaches, swelling of ankles, and constipation - some of the most common problems faced by pregnant women. In addition, exercise gives you energy and makes you feel fresh.

Does exercise help during pregnancy?

The answer is ‘Yes’. Exercising during pregnancy promotes muscles, strength, and endurance, thereby, helping the mother to carry the additional weight gained during pregnancy.

I do a rigorous workout.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

According to a study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, healthy, well-conditioned women who exercised before pregnancy may continue to do so throughout their pregnancy without compromising their baby’s health or development. Be particularly careful during the first trimester – don’t overdo.

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For how long should I exercise?

The workout should be approximately 45 minutes long and should include a warm-up, the workout, and a cool down.

What precautions do I need to take while exercising during pregnancy, if I have never worked out before?

Talk to your doctor or midwife. As long as you have permission to proceed, you can engage yourself in mild exercise, like walking or swimming.

Immediately after the birth of my child, what exercises can I do to regain my shape?

Make sure you are physically ready before you start with the process of regaining your shape. Once you think you are fit to start with an exercise regimen, begin with stretching and firming exercises, gradually add a second set of exercises.

Just remember that you need to follow normal exercise safety like, drinking lots of water, stopping immediately if you feel any pain etc. Most importantly, remember to speak to your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.

Yoga for Pregnancy Training your Body to Prenatal yoga provides both mental and physical benefits during pregnancy. It is useful because it teaches you how to use breathing to calm your body and mind, factors that will definitely come in handy during childbirth.

Learning how to master the postures taught in prenatal yoga will prime you for labor and childbirth. It facilitates childbirth by training your body to stay calm.

The benefits of yoga for pregnant women are not only determined by your physical well-being, but yoga aids your mind and spirit too. Simply spending time in a positive and nurturing environment with others who are in the same situation (as you) will help give you an emotional boost right when you need it most.

Sometimes it is hard to stay fit while pregnant. Yoga for pregnant women offers moms-to-be a great workout that is healthy for you and your unborn baby. Here is a guide on safe, basic yoga exercises and stretches to utilize during pregnancy.

There are numerous yoga poses in particular that are specific to pregnancy – the Cobbler or the Tailor pose.

These poses open up the pelvis. To do this pose you sit up straight against a wall with the soles of your feet touching one another, gently press your knees down and away from one another. Then try to stay in this pose for as long as you are comfortable.

Another good prenatal yoga position is the pelvic tilt, which is a posture that helps to relieve back pain. To do this, get down on your hands and knees with your arms shoulderwidth apart and your knees hip-width apart.

Make sure to keep your arms straight; then tighten in your abdominal muscles and tuck your buttocks under and round your back, breathing in while

Stay Calm

you do this. Now, relax your back into its relaxed position, and breathe out, repeating at your own pace.

Another beneficial posture is the squatting position, which helps to open up the pelvis and to strengthen the upper legs. As you start to fill out during pregnancy, there are certain support props that you may use to support your body in this position, such as yoga blocks or a pile of books. Start by standing facing the back of a chair with your feet spread slightly apart, your toes pointed outward. Bring your tail bone toward the floor as though you were going to sit down on a chair, but rather than sitting you hold the position there. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, push your legs up and rise to a standing position, and then repeat as you feel comfortable.

If you are wondering how you will possibly exercise while pregnant, consider trying yoga for pregnant women.

Not only will you feel great, you’ll be accumulating lifelong benefits for you and your child. This natural exercise program will relieve tension, increase your flexibility, increase your sense of health and well-being. This practice can be used after pregnancy too.

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Emotional Support

Pregnancy & Postpartum

PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

Pregnancy is one of the times in a woman’s life that she feels the most fragile. Regardless of whether or not the pregnancy was planned and hoped for or unplanned and shocking, finding out that you are pregnant brings with it a host of emotions. When you combine these emotions with an assault of early pregnancy hormones, the need for emotional support is greater than at any other time in their lives.

Research has shown that up to a third of women experience clinical depression or an anxiety disorder during some point in their pregnancy. Yet these studies also show that fewer than 20% of women seek treatment. Many women are ashamed to admit that pregnancy bliss is not what they are experiencing. Sometimes they do not tell those that are closest to them. Many women find themselves suffering in

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silence throughout their pregnancy, hoping against hope that things will just get better.

The days following giving birth are also a very vulnerable time for women. The sharp drop in estrogen and progesterone, coupled with a lack of sleep, are the perfect recipe for what is referred to as the “baby blues.” During the first couple of weeks postpartum, up to 80% of new mothers experience feelings of sadness, anxiousness, and a sense of being overwhelmed.

Symptoms are more severe with postpartum depression and include feeling numb, extremely sad, or angry.These mothers can experience a lack of interest in or excessive anxiety about their newborn. They may have feelings of hopelessness or not being able to cope. They may not be able to stop crying, have an inability to concentrate, or experience memory loss. Panic attacks, inability to sleep, and a general feeling of being unwell are also symptoms.

In extreme cases, the mother may begin to believe that the people around her would be better off without her or wishing that her baby was never born.

Untreated postpartum depression and anxiety can greatly hinder newborn attachment. It is during the first several weeks of a newborn’s life when he or she begins to recognize whether or not someone is going to be there to meet his or her needs. In these precious weeks of attachment and bonding, the baby learns trust, a vital stage in child development. Attachment difficulties are now known to be one of the causes of many issues later in the child’s life to include sensory processing disorders, lack of ability to trust other people, anxiety, and defiance.

Emotional difficulties, both during pregnancy and postpartum, can be successfully treated through the use of psychologically therapeutic techniques. The therapist or counselor can assist the mother in learning ways to best cope with these life transitions. The professional can also assist the woman with ways to build a greater support system, if needed. They may also encourage a greater amount of personal self-care, including taking some breaks from the baby. The therapist or counselor can also work with the obstetrician or other physician to make the best decision about the necessity of medication. Your emotional health is vital to you and your baby, before and after birth.

If you experience any of these common difficulties, do not hesitate to seek professional help and know that you are not alone.

Preparing Children for Pregnancy

and a New Baby

Your child’s age will play an important factor in determining how your child or children will react to your new pregnancy. For example, a toddler might not understand the concept of pregnancy until they actually see and meet the new baby. Sharing the news with a preschool aged child may be confusing because they may not understand why they have to wait so many months to meet their new baby brother or sister.

The news of your pregnancy may make your child feel nervous, threatened, or unloved. It is important to talk to your child about how they will be a big brother or big sister, because the feelings that they are experiencing will be a normal reaction to your pregnancy. They’ll notice

your changing shape and overhear conversations about pregnancy. So it is important to make time for your child or children and give them space when needed. It is also important to offer reassurance that you will provide enough love to be passed around to all of your children. Remember to wait until you are in your second trimester before spreading your news in the event of a miscarriage.

Try to set a couple of nights aside right before the baby is born to spend some time alone with your child or children. Explain to them that while the new baby will take up a lot of your time, you still love them very much and will make special time for just the two of you.

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

Oh BABY! | 37

Prenatal and Infant Care Prenatal Care

Many soon-to-be mothers can agree that pregnancy can produce new aches and pains that can result in severe strain and discomfort. The average weight gain during pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds, which can place increased stress on the body. The low back, legs, buttocks and sciatic nerve can all be affected. In fact, studies have shown that about half of all pregnant women will develop low back pain during pregnancy.

Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy can provide relief from aches and pains, and also ensure that your body is in the proper position to deliver your baby as naturally as possible.

Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy are safe and effective. The best part is that you can relieve discomfort and pain naturally, without the use of medications!

Finally, in the eight weeks following delivery of your baby, the ligaments will begin to tighten up and some women experience additional discomfort from the new challenges of constant reaching, lifting, and nursing. Continuing chiropractic care will help ensure that your body heals faster and that your nervous system functions the best it can to help you in caring for your newest family member!

Infant Care

Baby’s first year has many developmental milestones. The developmental periods will continue through infancy, in to childhood, and beyond. Well documented research studies have shown why it is important to consider chiropractic care early in a child’s life.

The natural birthing process exerts 40 to 50 pounds of

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Chiropractic

pressure on the newborn’s head and spinal column. If there are complications, this can add health problems to the delicate balance and stability of the infants head and spine.

Why should I have chiropractic care during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, there are several physiological and endocrinological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby.

The following changes can result in a misaligned spine or joints: Protruding abdomen and increased back curve Pelvic changes Postural adaptations Establishing pelvic balance and alignment is another reason to obtain chiropractic care during pregnancy.

When the pelvis is misaligned it may reduce the amount of room available for the developing baby. This restriction is called intrauterine constraint.

A misaligned pelvis may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the best possible position for delivery.

This can affect the mother’s ability to have a natural, non-invasive birth. Breech and posterior positions can interfere with the natural ease of labor and lead to interventions such as c-sections.

The nervous system is the master communication system to all the body systems including the reproductive system. Keeping the spine aligned helps the entire body work more effectively.

What are the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide benefits for women who are pregnant.

Potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include: • Maintaining a healthier pregnancy • Controlling symptoms of nausea • Reducing the time of labor and delivery • Relieving back, neck or joint pain • Preventing a potential cesarean delivery

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Finding the Perfect Choosing a name for your baby isn’t as easy as it seems.

No regrets – take the time to choose a name with meaning, one that you and your child will be proud of, one that ‘fits’ your family. Consider the number of syllables, what nicknames can be derived from the chosen name, how you and your partner feel about the name (it’s nice to agree on the name).

For some, finding a name can take their entire pregnancy and delivery without a decision.

For others, they knew the name they would pick before they even became pregnant. Your baby will wear the name you choose for life, which is why it is so important to put a lot of thought into it. Your child will be known on the playground, in an interview, professionally, and to future generations by the name you choose.

Avoid names with initials that spell out words Would you name your baby Richard Alexander Thompson? Maybe, until you saw “RAT” on a monogrammed baby gift! Try to choose a name that doesn’t spell out an unexpected word with an unpleasant connotation.

Think about nicknames Are you prepared to hear your child called by a nickname? Andrew will inevitably become “Andy” some of the time, even if you insist on the formal name.

Make sure you like the potential nicknames associated with the name you choose. But if you have strong feelings against them, think about choosing another name with nicknames you like better or consider names without commonly used nicknames like “John” or “Mary.”

Should you honor a family member?

If you genuinely like the idea of naming your baby after a family member, then by all means go ahead. Just make sure you like the name. If you don’t like the name, use that name as the middle name. Remember – it is your decision.

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Name

Family names are unique and valued – they should be considered. For example, my mother’s last name was Clayson…it is now the name of my nephew. My cousin’s last name was Whitfield…it is now the name of her son. Search your family names – you might just come up with something unique…something special.

Go with your heart!

There are so many things to consider! When your baby is born, you realize it’s all a matter of feeling, not logic. The feelings you and your partner share matters more than any opinion offered by friends and family. Stick with the name you genuinely love and welcome your child into the family with it.

Five tips on getting started: • Make a list of the names you favor most.

• Consider the middle and last name as well.

• Avoid names that remind you of people you dislike.

• Think about the nicknames.

• Most importantly, go with your heart!

Popular Baby Names for

2017

Here are the year’s most popular baby names for girls and boys.

These baby name lists base popularity ranking on a single spelling of a name (Sophia and Sofia, for example, are considered two different names).

1

Jackson

11 Grayson

21 Ryan

31 Isaac

41 Eli

2

Aiden

12 Jacob

22 Luke

32 Sebastian

42 Levi

3

Lucas

13 Michael

23 Daniel

33 Henry

43 Isaiah

4

Liam

14 Benjamin

24 Jack

34 Muhammad

44 Landon

5

Noah

15 Carter

25 William

35 Cameron

45 David

6

Ethan

16 James

26 Owen

36 Wyatt

46 Christian

7

Mason

17 Jayden

27 Gabriel

37 Dylan

47 Andrew

8

Caden

18 Logan

28 Matthew

38 Nathan

48 Brayden

9

Oliver

19 Alexander

29 Connor

39 Nicholas

49 John

10 Elijah

20 Caleb

30 Jayce

40 Julian

50 Lincoln

1

Sophia

11 Lily

21 Abigail

31 Nora

41 Peyton

2

Emma

12 Layla

22 Aaliyah

32 Addison

42 Maria

3

Olivia

13 Amelia

23 Avery

33 Brooklyn

43 Grace

4

Ava

14 Emily

24 Evelyn

34 Hannah

44 Adeline

5

Mia

15 Madelyn

25 Kaylee

35 Mila

45 Elena

6

Isabella

16 Aubrey

26 Ella

36 Leah

46 Anna

7

Riley

17 Adalyn

27 Ellie

37 Elizabeth

47 Victoria

8

Aria

18 Madison

28 Scarlett

38 Sarah

48 Camilla

9

Zoe

19 Chloe

29 Arianna

39 Eliana

49 Lillian

10 Charlotte

20 Harper

30 Hailey

40 Mackenzie

50 Natalie

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Name

Games

Choosing a baby’s name is a momentous decision for new parents.

Are there any ethnic or religious traditions you or your partner would like to honor?

Do you prefer traditional names? One-of-a-kind names?

Names that start with a certain letter?

Use these pages to keep track of the names you and your partner like.

Names From Your Side of the Family

Other names we like

Name:___________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

Names From Your Partner’s Side of the Family Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________

Name:___________________________________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ Meaning:_________________________________________ ________________________________________________

________________________________________________ Comments:_______________________________________ Name:___________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):___________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

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Birthstones We all know the basics of the birthstone. Each month has a special stone assigned to a particular month of the year you were born – your natal stone. Natal stones were derived from the 12 stones assigned to the 12 tribes of Israel. In the 18th century, birthstones were worn regularly in Poland. At the time, gemstones were worn for medical healing. The current birthstone list dates back to 1912.

Here is a list of birthstones including some interesting facts and beliefs from across the globe.

The Beauty... The Love

January - garnet

Prince Alexander of Russia who later became Czar Alexander II in 1855. It was discovered in Russia on the prince’s birthday in 1839.

• As the story goes, Cleopatra told Marc Anthony she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in one meal; the value worth thirty million Sesterces (“the price of a kingdom in one mouthful”). So, she crushed a magnificent pearl, added it to her glass of wine, and drank it.

July – ruby

• Ruby is said to bring serenity, and protect against injury.

• Signifies trust and friendship.

• Garnet was known in ancient times as carbuncle. It was thought • The ruby was said to be the most precious of the twelve stones God created. that carbuncle was one of the four stones given to King • When God created all things, a ruby was placed on Aaron’s Solomon by God. neck by God’s command.

February – amethyst

August – peridot & spinel • It was believed by ancient Romans that amethyst could ward off • Peridot was once thought to lessen thirst during fever, if held drunkenness if placed in the mouth during consumption. under the tongue.

• It was once reserved for royalty.

• Peridot was also thought to have the power to break evil spells, and drive away evil spirits.

March – aquamarine & bloodstone • Some famous “rubies” in the crown jewels were later found to • The color of aquamarine is said to cool the temper allowing the actually be spinel. wearer to remain calm and levelheaded.

• Aquamarine was believed to protect sailors as well as guarantee September – sapphire a safe voyage.

• It has been said that Moses was given the ten commandments • As legend tells, bloodstone was created when drops of Christ’s on tablets of sapphire, making it the most sacred gemstone. blood stained some jasper at the foot of the cross.

October – pink tourmaline & opal

April – diamond

• Tourmaline is believed to strengthen the body, and spirit, especially the blood and nervous system.

• Opal was once thought to have the power to preserve the color and life of blond hair.

May – emerald

• Citrine was known as the healing quartz.

• The Greeks believed that topaz had the ability to make its wearer invisible.

• A diamond is said to signify a person’s honesty, by growing dim if the wearer lies.

• The theft of a diamond is said to bring bad luck on any who possess the stone.

• Egyptians believed that emeralds stood for rebirth, fertility, and that it could ease childbirth.

• Early gemstone cutters would gaze at emeralds to rest their eyes.

June – Alexandrite, pearl, & moonstone

• Alexandrite is always capitalized because it was named after

November – citrine & yellow topaz

December – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite

• Warriors would fix turquoise to the end of their bows to insure accurate shots.

• Zircon was thought to prevent nightmares.

Oh BABY! | 43

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

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Choosing the Right

Child Care

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

While you would love to stay at home with your child, often it’s just not financially feasible. You’ll have to find the right child care. Where do you start? Instinct counts for much…but you have to visit the site to make sure the facility will support and enrich the development of your child physically, emotionally, socially and cognitively. Here’s a very important list that will guide you in your choice.

Will My Child Be Supervised?

Are children watched at all times, even when napping? Are the teachers warm and welcoming? Do they pay each child individual attention? Are positive guidance techniques used? Are the staffto-child ratios appropriate and do they follow guidelines set by the Department of Human Services (one caregiver per 4 infants/ toddlers; one caregiver per 6 two year olds; one caregiver per 8 three year olds; one caregiver per 12 four year olds; and one caregiver per 15 school-age children).

Is This A Safe And Healthy Place For My Child?

Do the teachers and children wash their hands (before/after eating, using the bathroom, changing diapers, touching bodily fluids, etc)? Are surfaces sanitized after each use? Are all children immunized? Are medicines labeled and kept out of children’s reach? Are the foods and beverages served to the children healthy and nutritious? Are cleaning supplies and other hazardous materials stored out of children’s reach? Is there a plan to follow if a child is injured, sick, or lost? Are first aid kits readily available?

Is there a plan to respond to disasters? Has a thorough criminal and background check been done on all teachers? Is the outdoor play area safe for children to play and is it inspected daily for hazards and regularly for condition? Is the play are fenced in? Is the equipment on mulch, sand or rubber matting?

Have The Adults Been Trained To Care For Children?

Does the Director have a degree and experience caring for children? Do the lead teachers have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s degree and experience in caring for children? Is there always someone present who has current CPR and First Aid Training? Have the teachers been trained on child abuse prevention and how to report a suspected case? Have the teachers received blood borne pathogens and disease prevention training? Is there ongoing education and training on the care of children?

Will My Child Be Able to Grow And Learn?

Are the toys age and developmentally appropriate? Are there a variety of toys? Is the room arranged in easily identifiable play centers? Are there daily/weekly lesson plans? Do the teachers talk, converse, and question the children? Do the teachers read to the children often and are books readily available?

Is The Program Set Up To Promote Quality?

Are there written personnel policies and procedures? Are the parents and staff asked to evaluate the program? Are teachers evaluated each year – do they do self assessment? Is the program accredited by a national organization?

Does The Program Work With Parents?

Will I be welcome to visit the center any time my child is in their care? Is parent’s feedback sought and used in making improvements? Will I receive access to policies and procedures?

Are there yearly conferences with parents? Are there any special parent events?

Oh BABY! | 45

Baby Nursery Design in

12 Easy Steps

Decorating a baby nursery can be a daunting prospect – especially for a first-time mom. There are so many decisions to make, and so little time…feeling stressed? Well that’s not good for the baby, so let us give you the basics for creating a haven for your little one… one step at a time…

Step 1: Baby safety is your first concern. Be sure to take this into account as you design your baby’s abode. Use a checklist for baby safety and plan accordingly.

Step 2: Decide on a room style. Cute, modern, traditional, whimsical, ethnic, the choice is yours. This decision will affect your furniture, theme, and color choices.

Step 3: Select a crib. The crib will form the focal point or centerpiece of your baby’s room. Consider a convertible crib as this will save you money over time and will grow with the child (and everything will continue to match for years to come). When selecting, look for shape, style, finish or color, durability – do you like it? Very important.

Step 4: Find baby nursery furniture to complement the

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crib. The dresser should match or mix well with the crib. The dresser can do double duty as the changing table (add a pad and safety straps and you’re set). Having said that – you can also get a changing table. If you use the dresser as the changing table, get one that is medium height – that allows you to lean over comfortably for needed supplies. The top drawer will hold all of your diaper-changing essentials – make sure the drawer is easy to get in and out of – it should glide/slide easily.

Step 5: Lighting is essential – and must be flexible.

Sometimes you’ll want it bright and sometimes soft. You want to be sure your night lighting allows you to see in the middle of the night (but not so it stimulates the baby).

Consider a dimmer switch for your lighting.

Step 6: If you already have wall to wall carpet in the room – that’s fine – you’re not likely to make the change (or go to the expense) – just be aware that you need to keep it vacuumed to avoid allergens (and be prepared to spot clean – it’s inevitable). Other flooring options are hardwood,

laminates, concrete – with the addition of a nice area rug or rug tiles. You can decorate a room around a rug – it can anchor your décor.

Step

7:

After you’ve gotten the basics decided upon, it’s time to decorate the room.

Do you have a theme? Is it about heirlooms?

Colors?

Style?

Read decorating magazines, check out Pinterest, go shopping – you’ll see things you like and can build your baby’s room to perfection.

Step 8: The color you choose for the walls will be influenced by your ‘theme’. The things you can do with paint are amazing – stripes, murals, stencils, multi-colored walls – the background to your decorating vision.

Step 9: Now the accessories are added to your vision… pictures, art, lamps, bedding, wall hangings, storage, fabrics – as you go through the process, shop for things that please your eye. BUT, stay with your vision – see it through to perfection. You will get sidetracked along the way – just look for the items that go with what you have, that fulfill the look, and that are pleasing to the eye. This is the room your child will grow up in and it is a room you want to be happy with too.

Step 10: Curtains, blinds, shades – stay with the vision.

Also make sure that you can block light when needed. Make sure the crib is not near these things as children tend to climb and are attracted to anything within reach (keep any and all cords away from the baby).

Step 11: Equipment – you’ll need a few extras: a baby monitor, a mobile, safety gates, high chair, stroller, travel crib, diaper bags, playpen, white noise machine, humidifier, diaper pail, a car seat, a baby carrier, a rocker or glider, shelves and bins for toys, outlet covers. That’s a good start.

Step 12: You’re done. Now relax and wait for your baby to come and change your life forever.

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Safety and

Baby-Proofing Your Home

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

Your child’s safety is an important responsibility – your responsibility. The tips below should help you to keep your baby safe and out of harm’s way. For the first 2 months, don’t take your baby to large public places such as malls and grocery stores – avoid crowds (germs). Keep your wellbaby doctor appointments as it is important to check your baby’s developmental milestones.

Smoking and Fire Safety – Do not smoke or allow smoking around your baby. Install a working smoke alarm on every level of your home. Change the batteries on your smoke detector every 6 months. Have at least one fire extinguisher on every level of your home. If your home uses gas heat, install a carbon monoxide detector.

Safety in the Car – Always use a federally approved car seat. Read the instructions for installation. Car seats should face the rear of the vehicle for the for the first 2 years of the baby’s life. The safest location for the seat is the middle of the back seat. Never put the baby in the front seat or on your lap. Disengage the air bag if you are in a truck with no

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back seat. Leave your purse, briefcase, or cell phone in the back seat to avoid accidentally leaving the child in the car – this will get you in the habit of looking in the back seat.

Preventing Falls – If you use an infant carrier, always place it on the floor – not on a counter or table – and make sure the baby is strapped in. Never leave the baby alone on a couch, changing table, or bed.

Preventing Baby Burns – Don’t hold hot liquids when holding your baby. Do not microwave the baby’s bottle – microwaves heat unevenly and can burn the baby’s mouth.

Warm the bottle in a bowl of warm water – shake the bottle – test the temperature.

Preventing Accidents – Keep sharp objects in secure places – out of baby’s reach. Don’t shake or throw the baby in the air (blindness and brain damage can occur). Secure lamps that have cords to the baseboards (try using electrical tape along the baseboards). Keep cleaning items and drugs out of your child’s reach.

Bath Safety – Start bathing after the cord falls off using soap for sensitive skin. Always test the water to make sure it is not too hot (before setting your baby in the water). Dipping your elbow in the water is a good way to test. It’s a good idea to turn the hot water heater to 120 degrees F. Never leave the baby unattended or with a sibling – it only takes seconds for a baby to drown.

Bathroom appliances (hair dryer, curling iron, radio) should be away from the water/tub. Make sure these appliances are unplugged when not in use.

electric outlets. Place your baby on his or her back for the first 4 months – no pillows. A one-piece sleeper is a good choice for sleeping. Don’t share a bed with your baby.

More Tips – Take a CPR class. Gather a list of emergency numbers and keep them by the phone (or in your mobile)

Toy Safety – Inspect toys regularly for breaks, sharp edges, small parts – toys should be larger than your baby’s mouth. Toy chests need to be open (no lids) or with supports that keep it open in any position.

Choking/ Strangulation – Keep cords away from the baby’s crib – secure cords on blinds. Make sure clothing with buttons are secure and tight (the buttons).

Don’t use baby items that have strings or cords. Put away small objects that can cause choking.

Safe Sleeping – The baby should have a separate sleeping space (crib, bassinette, or cradle). A firm mattress with a tight fitting sheet is best. No bumper pad, pillows, or fluffy blankets in the crib. Crib is away from cords/blinds/

– pediatrician, health care provider, family doctor, police department, fire department, and poison control. Have a will and name a guardian for your child in the event something should happen to you and your husband.

Oh BABY! | 49

Baby Rooms on a

If you have ever wandered through the infant’s section of a store, you know how much ‘stuff’ is out there for decorating a baby’s room. From wallpaper to furniture to bedding, you can find all kinds of products to decorate a baby’s bedroom. Sadly, if you don’t watch out, you can wind up spending a fortune. If you have just found out that you’re pregnant and you’re concerned about the cost of decorating your baby’s room, don’t despair. You can still create a wonderful room for your baby without breaking the bank.

Paint is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to transform a room. If you have the skills, you can draw a mural on one or all four walls. If that’s not your style, you can use stencils, stamps and paint pens to create a happy room.

You can paint the walls light yellow, for example, and add some happy faces with a paint pen or stamp on handprints in various colors. Numerous faux painting techniques are available that will allow you to create any number of textures and designs, from puffy clouds to paint splatters.

While you’re working on the walls, don’t neglect the ceiling.

Remember, this is area the baby will see the most in the beginning when they are lying on their backs.

If you don’t like paint, you can try wallpaper. Keep in mind, though, that wallpaper will probably cost more than

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Budget

paint, and if you don’t apply it well, you may find your little one picking it off when they get older. If you go this route, select a wallpaper pattern that will grow with your child and make sure the wallpaper can be scrubbed for those inevitable sticky handprints, stray crayon marks, and more.

For inexpensive wall hangings, you have numerous options.

You can hang up special baby blankets or quilts that you receive, or shop around for inexpensive prints and frame them for instant art. If you have kids already, you can have them draw pictures for the baby that you can frame and hang up. If not, you can use kid’s place mats, baby cards, and even family photos for art. Inexpensive wooden shelves with old baby shoes and bottles are another idea. Whatever wall hangings you create, make sure you don’t hang anything above the baby’s crib. There’s too much of a risk that something you hang could fall on the baby or the baby could pull down on themselves when they get older.

With floors and windows, you have several options. If you can afford it, you may want to put down stain-resistant carpeting or laminate flooring. Babies tend to spit up, and the older they get, the messier they are likely to be. Instead of traditional carpeting, consider putting down carpet tiles, which you can easily change out should they get terribly stained. If you already have carpet and can’t afford to replace it, consider adding an inexpensive rug to protect the carpet from stains, or make a floor cloth out of canvas.

With window coverings, you can keep it simple and top inexpensive mini-blinds or shutters with a cornice board or valance, or you can go all out and purchase or make drapes. Whatever you do, keep in mind that the more light the window coverings block out, the better your baby may sleep.

When choosing furniture for your baby’s room, think sturdy and try to buy pieces that will grow with your child.

As your child learns to walk, they will start to climb and you do not want them climbing onto a rickety chair or table

that could break and injure them. You also do not want a room full of furniture that you will have to change out within a few years. While your child may adore their white dresser with the heart-shaped mirror when they are little, they might not like it so well when they turn 5 or 6 and are into sports. Look for furniture pieces that will appeal to your child throughout their childhood.

As for bedding, the choice is yours. You can buy or make a layette set, complete with bed ruffle and bumper pad, or you can pick up some inexpensive sheets and add a nice quilt. Whatever you select, keep in mind that it will be some time before your baby is actually old enough to use all of the bedding and enjoy it. Experts recommend that newborns be placed in a crib with as little bedding as possible to protect them from accidental suffocation.

Remember, your baby will not be able to tell the difference between a rug that cost $50 or one that cost $500, so don’t sweat the price of the stuff you use to decorate their room. Stick to your budget and create a design that will appeal to your baby. A room filled with inexpensive tactile objects will appeal more to a baby than a room draped in silk and other expensive fabrics.

Let your imagination run wild and have fun!

Some Dos and Don’ts!

• Finish all paint and wallpapering 8 weeks before the baby’s due date. Air the room of fumes from these tasks.

• Place the crib away from direct sunlight and street lighting.

• No pillows and comforters in the crib – they could suffocate the child. They do make nice wall hangings and can be used later.

• There’s going to be ‘stuff’ – baby stuff – so make sure you have enough storage and closet space.

• Have a chair or sofa in the room for you and your partner – you’ll be in that room a lot – make it comfortable.

• If you can avoid wall to wall carpeting – avoid it. It can harbor dust and allergens. If you use a rug in the room, make sure it’s secure – you wouldn’t want to fall with the baby in your arms • Place the furniture away from windows and use window guards. Cut all blind cords – make sure they are out of the baby’s reach.

• Place heavy furniture against the wall so it doesn’t fall over if bumped.

• Make sure that most things you buy are washable – enough said.

• Add personal touches – family photos are a great idea as they promote recognition and stimulation.

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Choosing a

Pediatrician

If you already have a family doctor, you may not think you need a pediatrician.

Although a general physician is licensed to care for children, they lack the training of a pediatrician. To become a pediatrician, a doctor has to have four years of medical school and three more years of residency working solely in pediatrics. Some are further specialized in a field like neonatalogy or cardiology.

You should start looking for a pediatrician in the seventh month of pregnancy. Start compiling the list by asking family and friends if they have any recommendations. Check with your insurance company for eligible pediatricians and with your local hospitals to see if they have referral services. Ask your obstetrician or family doctor if they know of someone.

Research.

Ask yourself if you want a male or female doctor. There may be a point when your child gets older that they will feel more comfortable with a doctor of the same sex. Do you want an older or younger doctor? An older doctor will have more experience, but could be set in their ways and not open to new technology or methods. They might be thinking about retirement. A younger doctor, on the other hand, may be more open to new technology or methods, but lack the experience of an older doctor. Like choosing an obstetrician, do the work – find out what fits you and your lifestyle.

You’ve narrowed your list of choices, now comes some investigative work. Before interviewing a pediatrician, check with the state medical board to see if any disciplinary action or professional peer reviews have been made against the

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pediatrician. Check out the books put out by the Director of Public Citizen’s Health Research Group. These list doctors who have been disciplined by a state or federal government.

As you interview the candidates on your list, look for a pediatrician who is open-minded and compassionate to your feelings and thoughts. Make sure the pediatrician is covered by your insurance and will actually be seeing your child. Most pediatricians will do these interviews for free, but some will charge. If they charge, see if the fee can be applied to the first office visit. If a pediatrician won’t do an interview, be wary of them.

Once you have made your choice, there are no hard and fast rules that say you have to stick with it. If you ever become concerned with your child’s care, discuss the situation with the pediatrician. If the problem continues, find a new pediatrician.

Choosing a pediatrician for your child may be the single-most important decision you make for their young years. Unfortunately, most people don’t spend enough time doing so. Next to parents, a pediatrician is one of the most important people in a child’s life, so choose wisely.

Common Questions to Ask Your

Pediatrician

Before going in for the interview, check out the office. Is it clean and organized?

Can they be reached with questions, either routine or emergency?

Are there separate waiting rooms for sick and healthy kids?

Do they have specific call-in times?

Is the staff courteous?

Do they listen to parents’ concerns?

Do they have a Website that will allow you to reach them by email?

What are the office hours?

In the event your child becomes ill, when would they refer your child to the emergency room?

Is there a lab on site?

What hospital do they use?

What doctor is recommended for work not done on site?

Who covers when they are away?

Do they do eye and hearing checks in the office?

Are there resident physicians, nurse practitioners, medical students and nurses on staff?

How easy is it to get through on the telephone?

How involved will they be in caring for your child?

Is the practice large or small?

What kind of time will they spend with your child at a typical visit?

Is there more than one office?

How much time is spent at each office?

When you interview the pediatrician, ask them about their educational background.

How long have they been in practice?

Are they board certified?

How do they stay current on the latest medical developments?

When do they prescribe medication?

What kind of medication do they regularly prescribe?

How do they handle a situation where you disagree with their treatment?

If your family situation is nontraditional, how will the pediatrician and the office staff treat you?

Oh BABY! | 53

Pediatrician

Interviews

Pediatrician’s Name:_________________________________________________________________________________ Office Address:______________________________________________________________________________________ Office Hours:________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number:______________________________________________________________________________________ About the Pediatrician:_______________________________________________________________________________ Do you have weekend appointments?__________________________________________________________________ How are middle-of-the-night emergencies handled?______________________________________________________ Are same-day appointments available when my child is sick?_______________________________________________ Is my health insurance accepted by your practice?________________________________________________________ If so, does the office bill my insurance company, or do I have to pay up front and be reimbursed?_______________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is there someone on the staff who can help me with breast-feeding issues?__________________________________ To what hospitals do you admit patients?________________________________________________________________ Other Questions:____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Pediatrician’s Name:_________________________________________________________________________________ Office Address:______________________________________________________________________________________ Office Hours:________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number:______________________________________________________________________________________ About the Pediatrician:_______________________________________________________________________________ Do you have weekend appointments?__________________________________________________________________ How are middle-of-the-night emergencies handled?______________________________________________________ Are same-day appointments available when my child is sick?_______________________________________________ Is my health insurance accepted by your practice?________________________________________________________ If so, does the office bill my insurance company, or do I have to pay up front and be reimbursed?_______________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is there someone on the staff who can help me with breast-feeding issues?__________________________________ To what hospitals do you admit patients?________________________________________________________________ Other Questions:____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Skin and

Pregnancy

Even though I was a board certified Dermatologist and a national “expert” skin advisor for www.BabyCenter.com, when I became pregnant, I was still concerned about my skin. After 20 years of practicing Dermatology and raising 2 children with my husband and fellow Dermatologist, I want to share with you what I wish I had known about skin during pregnancy.

First and foremost, your skin is the largest organ of your body. Your skin will stretch, change, and amaze you while you are pregnant. Try to love your skin...your changing skin. And while some women have that special pregnancy glow, for others the increased hormonal activity can result in the opposite effect. Acne, bumps, rashes, dryness, and discolorations are all signs of hormonal surges.

Acne can be particularly focused around your mouth and chin, though you might also have breakouts at your hairline, on your neck, chest, breasts, and even your bum. Progesterone can cause your glands to increase oil secretion, clogging your pores, which causes bacteria to build up resulting in acne. Make sure you use gentle cleansers – morning and night. Your skin is sensitive, so don’t be overly aggressive in your cleansing routine. Look for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic.

Be sun smart, use sunscreen, and limit your time in the sun (wear a hat). When you’re pregnant, your brain makes more of a hormone called MSH (melanocyte stimulating hormone) which makes your skin darker. The combination of UV light and MSH can really flare melasma, the mask of pregnancy. Fill up on folic acid and mind your diet. In addition, a Dermatologist will offer a variety of products, treatments, and suggestions to minimize this mask so that your glow of pregnancy shines.

You may also experience linea nigra or line of pregnancy.

This is a dark line that runs down the center of your belly – the steps above and staying out of the sun can help.

Wear sunscreen.

Eat a smart and healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Speak to your doctor before taking any acne or skin remedies (by mouth or topically).

Moisturize your body, keep a jar of thick plain moisturizer in the shower, applying liberally to your entire body after every shower. Consider using a moisturizer with glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids to protect your skin against stretch marks. And speaking of stretch marks – they can be very itchy…the cause is your stretching skin. PUPPP is short for pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy – a reaction that shows itself in hives. It usually occurs in the third trimester. Treat with a warm bath, calamine lotion, or moisturizer. If it blisters or becomes inflamed – see your doctor immediately.

Heat Rash is also common in pregnancy. Your hormones, your overheated body, friction, and perspiration combine to bring on this irritating rash. Use cold compresses, take a warm shower, wear loose clothing (or no clothing at all) to soothe your rash.

You may develop lumps and bumps on your skin while pregnant. If you develop excess skin or stretch marks, Dermatologists have a variety of tools and lasers to decrease stretch marks and inches after you deliver your baby. They can offer treatments to diminish the broken blood vessels, extra hair, stretch marks, loose skin, extra inches, dark patches, skin tags, or other skin issues that may have arisen with your pregnancy.

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Essentials of Baby Shower

Etiquette

Throwing a baby shower is just like throwing any other party. Who do you invite, when do you have it, where do you have it, is there a theme, what time of day or night…be aware there are certain times of day when the mom-to-be feels her best – ask her – she’ll let you know.

Appropriate Time For A Baby Shower Baby showers can be held before the baby is born or after. Many choose to do it a couple of months before when the mom is really showing (and glowing), while others wait until afterward, giving the mom the perfect opportunity to show off her little one to several people at once. Your host should check with you and make sure of the date and time and the guest list.

Etiquette for a Second Child Shower (or third, or fourth, etc.)

Every baby should be celebrated – right? In my view – yes. When it comes to a second pregnancy, people have differing opinions on shower etiquette – she’s got

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everything right? Well – maybe not, what if the child is a different gender? What if she’s having twins? What if she needs a few things? What if it’s been a few years since the first child? Have that shower and enjoy being together. Find out what the Mom needs, have a shower, and celebrate.

Sometimes they call a second baby shower a ‘sprinkle’… the entire celebration is less formal, low key, less expensive – it’s about celebrating.

Who Will Host the Party?

According to ‘etiquette’ , anyone but the mom-to-be and her family can host a shower. This tradition is outdated and often disregarded – if you love the person – you’re related – are a best friend – are a close co-worker – host the shower.

Consult with the guest of honor to determine the guest list.

Consider having a couples shower – Dad’s need car seats too…a recent trend has been ‘Diaper Showers for Dads’… you’re going to need them (diapers and Dads), so you might as well get them (diapers).

often disregarded – if you love the person – you’re related – are a best friend – are a close co-worker – host the shower. Consult with the guest of honor to determine the guest list. Consider having a couples shower – Dad’s need car seats too…a recent trend has been ‘Diaper Showers for Dads’…you’re going to need them (diapers and Dads), so you might as well get them (diapers).

Location Most showers are held at the host’s home, but they can be held at a restaurant, a party room, the office conference room, even at the home of the mom-to-be (it’s her most comfortable place). Whatever works.

Throwing a baby shower is just like throwing any other party. Who do you invite, when do you have it, where do you have it, is there a theme, what time of day or night…be aware there are certain times of day when the mom-to-be feels her best – ask her – she’ll let you know.

Appropriate Time For A Baby Shower Baby showers can be held before the baby is born or after. Many choose to do it a couple of months before when the mom is really showing (and glowing), while others wait until afterward, giving the mom the perfect opportunity to show off her little one to several people at once. Your host should check with you and make sure of the date and time and the guest list.

Etiquette for a Second Child Shower (or third, or fourth, etc.)

Every baby should be celebrated – right? In my view – yes. When it comes to a second pregnancy, people have differing opinions on shower etiquette – she’s got everything right? Well – maybe not, what if the child is a different gender? What if she’s having twins? What if she needs a few things? What if it’s been a few years since the first child? Have that shower and enjoy being together. Find out what the Mom needs, have a shower, and celebrate.

Sometimes they call a second baby shower a ‘sprinkle’… the entire celebration is less formal, low key, less expensive – it’s about celebrating.

Who Will Host the Party?

According to ‘etiquette’ , anyone but the mom-to-be and her family can host a shower. This tradition is outdated and

Invitations The host may go casual and phone or email each invited guest (evites are very popular and so much quicker in this busy world)…some like a more formal invite and spend the money on this type of invitation (it is a memento and I prefer this kind of invite – they can be absolutely charming – and set the tone or theme of the shower). Make sure all the details are on the invite (who, date, time, location, theme, where registered, list of needs, and RSVP information).

How Many Guests Should You Invite?

There are no hard and fast rules on this subject. Having said that, the normal number should be about 20 guests. If over 25 guests, you might want to co-host the shower with another person to keep the costs in line. The host should know how many people will fit the venue (home, restaurant, etc.), so consider these things carefully.

Themes The theme of the shower will be determined by the host. People are getting more and more clever (thank you Pinterest) with themed showers and celebrations… for example, if the parents are Irish, the shower might be Luck O’ the Irish inspired (can you see the green and the shamrocks?)…check out the background of the parents and go from there…What you want to do is consider the parents and you’ll have your theme. Questions to ask are: Do you go co-ed? Do you go traditional? What is the venue – that can also determine your theme? What works best in your setting? What is appropriate at your shower location?

Are you trying to match the baby’s nursery theme? These are just a few ways to set the theme of the shower.

Oh BABY! | 57

Your

The list of ‘gear’ needed for your new baby is quite large and baby showers are a wonderful way for your friends and family to shower your baby with gifts.

But let’s be practical, you have specific needs and a gift registry lets your loved ones know what you really want and what you really need for your baby’s first year of life. So you create a registry.

Some Tips: - Research large items a little at a time; ask other Moms for advice and reviews on items they use and love; put as much as you want on your registry, better to have more than less; plan ahead – babies grow quickly – you’ll need larger size clothes and diapers; don’t forget safety items for the house and those required for your automobile.

Baby Registry Here is a list of items your baby will need during the first year of life: •Crib & Mattress, mattress pads, fitted sheets •Blankets – swaddles, heavy, receiving •Diapers – all sizes, wipes •Diaper Pail and Liners •Detergent (baby safe, dye free) •Sleep Gowns, Footies, Converter Gowns, Seasonally Appropriate Clothing •Baby Monitor •Travel Bed •Infant and Toddler Car Seat, seat protector •Back Seat Mirror •Stroller •Humidifier •Night Light

•Bottles, pacifiers •Drying Rack •Food Processor •High Chair, bibs, burp cloths •Breast Pump, storage bags, nipple cream, nursing bras, pads, tops, and cover •Diaper Bag with lots of pockets, changing pad •Bath Towels, grooming kit, soap, shampoo, lotion, diaper rash cream, sunscreen •First Aid Kit •Socks, mittens, onesies •Books, Toys •Floor Seat •Baby Carrier/Sling PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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Budgeting for Baby…

A new baby brings big financial changes and budgeting challenges…What does a baby cost? How do I plan financially for the arrival of my baby? What expenses will I incur before and after my child arrives? What plans should I be making to secure the future of my child? So many questions and concerns…and while some expenses are obvious – if you’re budgeting for baby, you have to plan for the unexpected.

Government estimates suggest that you’ll spend about $10,000 on child-related expenses in the first 2 years of life. It is important to break down the one-time expenses – décor, equipment, gear; the monthly expenses – medical, food, clothing, toys, child care; and those unexpected expenses – life insurance, education savings.

Plan for Medical Expenses Did you know you’re already financially planning for your little one’s arrival? You are making financial arrangements with your doctor and the hospital as you progress through your pregnancy. It will be important for you to contact your insurer to see what additional medical expenses you could incur in case of complications.

Now and in the Future

You’ll need to have your child on a health plan by the time he or she is 30 days old. Talk to the professionals – get the best coverage for your child and your family.

Find Child Care

Child care expenses can easily be the largest monthly expense for your baby. Take time to research your options.

Child care facilities offer many options, levels of care, hours, food, classes, and other benefits and options – things you want to know when considering who cares for your child. Which facility or caretaker best fits your budget and lifestyle? Where do you feel your baby will feel safe and comfortable?

Start Planning for the Future

Once your baby’s social security number is in your hand, look in to special savings accounts for college. Encourage family and friends to make contributions to this fund in lieu of toys for special occasions. Parents do just fine showering their children with toys and love…so make each special occasion a time to prepare for the future and contribute to this very important fund.

Prepare a Will A will is a financial responsibility you have to your new family member. If something should happen to you, it is important to decide who will step in as their legal guardian.

Who will protect them financially? If for no other reason – taking care of your child or children requires that you have a will. Without a will, you have no say as to how your assets are distributed after your death. Use a professional, ask questions, execute a will that covers every concern.

Should you have life changes – more children, adoption, marriage or remarriage, change of executor, moving to another state with different laws – update the will.

Plan for the Unexpected - Life Insurance

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You have big plans for your kids and want to see them realize their hopes and dreams. It’s hard enough to make that happen the way it is. But what if you, your spouse, or both of you were to suddenly be out of the picture? From diapers to diplomas, would there be enough income to pay for day care, education, and everything in between?

Your children are your greatest responsibility, and life insurance can help them grow up in an environment where they’re physically and financially secure – even if something should happen to you. In addition to coverage for mom and dad, protection for your child is also important. The benefit for children’s coverage includes providing a solid financial basis early in life, protection, and final expense coverage should the unthinkable happen. Simply put, let life insurance be a part of creating a bright future.

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Baby’s Nutrition: Learning the Dance of

Breastfeeding

Your first dance with a new partner can be a bit awkward. With practice, you both learn how to move with one another gracefully. Learning to comfortably nurse your baby is very much like learning to dance. It may not be perfect at first, but with practice, it becomes effortless.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding exclusively through baby’s first six months and continuing to breastfeed as you add in other foods during the first months 6- 12. Even a small amount of breastmilk in the first few days after your baby’s birth makes a difference.

Longer is better, but every ounce counts!

Breastfeeding provides warmth and closeness. The physical contact helps create a special bond between you and your baby. Breast milk has many benefits – it is easier to digest, doesn’t need to be prepared, and it is always available. It has all the nutrients, calories, and fluids your baby needs to be healthy and growth factors that ensure best development of your baby’s organs. Breast milk also has many substances that formulas don’t have that help protect your baby from many diseases and infections. In fact, breastfed babies are less likely to have ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, wheezing, bronchiolitis, and other bacterial and viral infections.

Breastfeeding is good for Mom too. It helps to release hormones in your body that promote mothering behavior and return your uterus to the size it was before pregnancy more quickly. It also burns calories, which may help in losing pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding will delay the return of your menstrual period to help keep iron in your body. It also keeps bones strong.

PLAN AHEAD Attend a breastfeeding class. It is important to learn how to latch the baby to the breast correctly so that you are comfortable and the baby is effective at getting milk.

Check your local health department and area hospitals for breastfeeding classes. Ask friends and family members who breastfed for their support. You can get excellent and accurate information from www.womenshealth.gov.

Include breastfeeding goals in your birth plan. Ask about skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth. Research shows it eases the baby’s transition into the world. Often referred to as ‘kangaroo care,’ this close contact helps stabilize baby’s breathing and heartbeat – and has been shown to increase milk supply.

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ESTABLISH A SUPPORT SYSTEM New Moms need support and reassurance. While you are pregnant, develop a list of ‘who to call’ in case you have questions or concerns. It can be a friend who had a successful breastfeeding experience or a lactation professional. Most hospitals have lactation professionals on staff and they will consult with you on the phone or in person. You can search ‘find a lactation consultant’ at www. ilca.org. The La Leche League offers support groups.

INTERVIEW PEDIATRICIANS When choosing a Pediatrician, be sure to ask if he or she has experience supporting breastfeeding Mothers and babies. Your baby’s doctor will be a valuable part of your support system. They are the best source of information about medications you may be prescribed during the postpartum period.

IF YOU ARE RETURNING TO WORK OR SCHOOL Let your employer know that you will need regular breaks to pump human milk for your infant and ask about a comfortable, private space. Your insurance may provide a double electric pump or you can buy or rent one. A good pump is critical. Ask a lactation counselor about the best models. Take a few weeks to practice pumping before you return to work. Work with your childcare provider to plan baby’s feeding around your schedule.

Safe Sleep For Your

WHO IS AT RISK FOR SIDS? SIDS is the leading cause of death for infants between 1 month and 12 months of age. SIDS is most common among infants that are 1-4 months old.

WHAT CAN I DO BEFORE MY BABY IS BORN TO REDUCE THE RISK OF SIDS? Take care of yourself during pregnancy and after the birth of your baby. During pregnancy, before you even give birth, you can reduce the risk of your baby dying from SIDS! Don’t smoke or expose yourself to others’ smoke while you are pregnant and after the baby is born. Alcohol and drug use can also increase your baby’s risk for SIDS. Be sure to visit a physician for regular prenatal checkups to reduce your risk of having a low birth weight or premature baby.

WHERE IS THE SAFEST PLACE FOR MY BABY TO SLEEP? The safest place for your baby to sleep is in the room where you sleep, but not in your bed.

Place the baby’s crib or bassinet near your bed (within arm’s reach). This makes it easier to breastfeed and to bond with your baby. The crib or bassinet should be free from toys, soft bedding, blankets, and pillows.

SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES Always place babies to sleep on their backs during naps and at nighttime. Because babies sleeping on their sides are more likely to accidentally roll onto their stomach, the side position is just as dangerous as the stomach position. Avoid letting the baby get too hot. The baby could be too hot if

Baby

you notice sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, and rapid breathing. Dress the baby lightly for sleep. Set the room temperature in a range that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult. Consider using a pacifier at nap time and bed time. The pacifier should not have cords or clips that might be a strangulation risk.

SAFE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT Place your baby on a firm mattress, covered by a fitted sheet that meets current safety standards. Place the crib in an area that is always smoke free. Don’t place babies to sleep on adult beds, chairs, sofas, waterbeds, pillows, or cushions. Toys and other soft bedding, including fluffy blankets, comforters, pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, and wedges should not be placed in the crib with the baby. Loose bedding, such as sheets and blankets, should not be used as these items can impair the infant’s ability to breathe if they are close to his face. Sleep clothing, such as sleepers, sleepsacks, and wearable blankets are better alternatives to blankets.

IS IT EVER SAFE TO HAVE BABIES ON THEIR TUMMIES? Yes! You should talk to your child care provider about making tummy time a part of your baby’s daily activities.

Your baby needs plenty of tummy time while supervised and awake to help build strong neck and shoulder muscles.

Remember to make sure that your baby is having tummy time at home with you.

RESOURCE: American Academy of Pediatrics

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Infant

Reflux

Infant reflux is the condition where the contents of the stomach are spit out, usually shortly after feeding. Spitting up (infant reflux) becomes less common as a baby gets older, and it’s unusual if it’s still occurring after 18 months of age. In a small number of cases, reflux can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), an allergy or a blockage.

Symptoms Spitting up and vomiting are the main symptoms of infant reflux. As long as your baby is healthy, content and growing well, the reflux is not a cause for concern. Your child will in all likelihood outgrow it.

While your baby may act fussy or seem to be uncomfortable, it is very unusual for the stomach contents to be acidic enough to irritate the esophagus or throat, as happens with acid reflux.

Contact your baby’s doctor if your baby: • Isn’t gaining weight • Spits up forcefully, causing stomach contents to shoot out of his or her mouth (projectile vomiting) • Spits up green or yellow fluid • Spits up blood or a material that looks like coffee grounds • Refuses food

• Has blood in his or her stool • Has difficulty breathing • Begins vomiting at age 6 months or older

Causes Infant reflux is related to a number of factors, often in combination with one another.

In infants, the ring of muscle between the esophagus and the stomach — the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — is not yet fully mature, allowing stomach contents to flow backward.

Eventually, the LES will open only when baby swallows and will remain tightly closed the rest of the time, keeping stomach contents where they belong. Babies are lying flat most of the time, which makes reflux more likely. Moreover, their diet is completely liquid, also favoring infant reflux. Sometimes air bubbles in the stomach may push liquids backward. In other cases, your baby may simply drink too much, too fast.

Although infant reflux most often occurs after a feeding, it can happen anytime your baby coughs, cries or strains. You can always check with your pediatrician if you are concerned about infant reflux. Your pediatrician will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding your baby’s health. The history a parent gives on their baby’s symptoms helps guide your pediatrician’s management.

PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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Planning Baby’s

From the first positive pregnancy test, many momsto-be fret over labor. Writing a birth plan can help relieve your anxiety, and—like Kegels! —it’s a valuable predelivery exercise. A birth plan is a document that tells your medical team your preferences and desires for such things as how to manage labor pain. Most hospitals provide a birth plan worksheet or brochure that explains the hospital’s philosophy of childbirth – giving you options and guidelines. Much of your birth experience will be dictated by the setting you select and the caregivers assisting, so it’s important to learn your options before penning your preferences. In addition, it is impossible to completely control how your little one will make his or her grand entrance.

Things to Think About when Creating Your Birth Plan:

Birth

Procedures of your health care provider.

Atmosphere. Do you want a high-energy ambiance with jazzy music or a quiet, softly lit setting for your baby’s big debut?

Preparatory procedures. In earlier eras, a woman arriving at the hospital to give birth was given an enema and a trim (down there). Ask if these are still routine procedures where you’ll be delivering. They likely won’t be, but it’s better to know so there’s no surprise on labor day!

Pain management. Is your strategy “Get an epidural ASAP!” or do you want to avoid pain medications if possible? What pain management techniques will you use?

Monitoring. Many hospitals use constant electronic fetal monitoring, but if you don’t want to be bedridden, intermittent monitoring may be an option.

Episiotomies and assisted birth.

Birth setting policies. You may want to chow down If your baby is being bashful, your caregiver may wish to on hamburgers during labor, but many hospitals limit your consumption to ice chips. Get familiar with your delivery location’s policies ahead of time.

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perform an episiotomy—an incision between the vagina and anus—or use forceps or vacuum extraction. Discuss the pros and cons of each in advance.

C-section. In what circumstances would you want a practice placing baby immediately on your chest, known as Cesarean to be performed? Does five hours of pushing grant a ticket to the OR or is your baby’s distress the only call for surgery? Discuss this with your physician.

skin-to-skin. This promotes bonding and successful breast feeding.” For a C-section, indicate who should bond with your baby while you recover.

Photos and videos. Do you wish to document every Nursing. It is recommended to start breastfeeding right moment from the first twinge through baby’s first bath, or hold the flashbulbs until all are clean and content?

away; you can also ask the hospital staff not to offer baby a bottle or pacifier, which could interfere with nursing.

Crowning. Some non squeamish mothers request to have Additional info. Mention factors that may affect your a mirror positioned so they can see the baby crown (when his head first appears) or even reach down and touch his tiny noggin.

Cutting the cord. Indicate when you’d like baby’s umbilical cord to be clamped, and specify whether daddy wants to take part in the snipping ritual.

Post Birth. “After a vaginal delivery, your delivery facility may

delivery, like if you’re blind as a bat without glasses, have gestational diabetes, or wish to bank baby’s cord blood.

Don’t forget. While creating a birth plan is a great idea, don’t get so attached to it that you won’t allow any flexibility in the delivery room. Birth is different for every woman, every time, so no matter how much you plan there’s a good chance things won’t go exactly the way you envisioned them. Remember to expect the unexpected!

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Hospital Bag

Checklist

Reduce your stress by packing for your trip to the hospital a few weeks before your expected due date.

____ Bath Robe

For Mom

____ Lotion

____ Night Gown

____ Hair Ties and Pins

____ Pajamas

____ Pillow

____ Loose Comfy Clothing

____ Tennis Ball for Labor Massage

____ An Outfit to Leave In

____ Cell Phone and Charger

____ Slippers

____ Camera and Charger

____ Nursing Bras

____ Music Player/Laptop/Tablet

____ Several Pair of Comfortable Underwear

____ Snacks for Husband/Family

____ Socks

____ Coins for Vending Machine

____ Nursing Pads/ Nipple Cream

____ Birth Plan

____ Toiletries and Makeup

____ List of Family Contacts

____ Brush and Blow Dryer

____ Magazines/Books

____ Glasses/Contact Lenses

____ Identification

____ Chapstick

____ Insurance Card/Info

____ Going Home Outfit

For Baby

____ Baby Finger Nail Clippers

____ Onesie/Sleepers

____ Car Seat

____ Baby Socks

____ Receiving Blankets

____ Baby Mittens/Hat

____ Newborn Diapers and Baby Wipes

Call List ________________________________________________ _ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ _ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ _ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

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PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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How will I know when I’m in

Labor?

efface significantly or dilate as you get close to labor. This is the plug that has sealed your cervix canal during the last nine months. It can appear as discharge or in a lump. It might have pink, red, or brown blood.

Your water breaks. When the fluid filled amniotic sac surrounding the baby ruptures, fluid leaks out from your vagina and this is the time to call the doctor. Most women have regular contractions prior to the water breaking (but sometimes the water breaks first).

In pre-labor or early labor (the latent phase), you may have: Every woman’s labor is different, so pinpointing when yours begins isn’t really possible. However, some specific changes take place in pre-labor, early labor and established (active) labor.

Your body actually starts preparing for labor up to a month before you give birth. You may not recognize the changes at first, but there comes a time that you become aware of these new symptoms as your due date draws near.

In the weeks and days before labor starts, your baby ‘drops’ – you may feel what’s known as ‘lightening’ a few weeks before labor starts. You breathe easier because the heaviness has shifted to your pelvis as opposed to just below your ribcage.

You will have frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions signaling pre-labor. Your cervix ripens and you’re set for real labor. Some feel crampy (similar to when you had your period).

Those Braxton Hicks contractions are tricky and can strike as often as every ten to twenty minutes. You wonder if you’re in real labor…but real labor contractions are most often longer, stronger, closer together, and cause your cervix to dilate.

Your cervix starts to change – it softens and thins out.

As your due date draws near, your doctor will do an exam checking to see if your cervix has started to change.

You may pass your mucus plug if your cervix begins to

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• Persistent lower back pain or abdominal pain, with a premenstrual feeling and cramps.

• Painful contractions that occur at regular and increasingly shorter intervals, and become longer and stronger in intensity.

• Broken water. Your membranes may rupture with a gush or a trickle of amniotic fluid. Either way, call your maternity unit to let them know.

• A brownish or blood-tinged mucus discharge (bloody show). If you pass the mucus plug that blocks the cervix, labor could be imminent, or it could be several days away. It’s a sign that things are moving along.

• An upset tummy or loose bowels.

• A period of feeling very emotional or moody.

• Disrupted sleep.

How you will feel in the pre-labor or early labor phases depends on: • Whether you’ve had a baby before.

• How you perceive and respond to pain.

• How prepared you are for what going into labor may be like.

When should I call my doctor?

You have probably talked to your doctor about what to do when you think you’re in active labor. But if you’re not sure whether or not the time has come, don’t be embarrassed to call. Doctors are used to getting calls from

women who are uncertain if they’re in early labor or active labor, and who need guidance. It’s part of their job.

A doctor can tell a lot by the tone of your voice, so talking helps. She’ll want to know how close together your contractions are, whether you can talk through a contraction, and any other symptoms you may have.

If she thinks you’re still in early labor, she is likely to encourage you to go home until you’re in stronger active labor. Her decision will depend on how you’re coping and whether you’ve got a birth partner to support you.

You should contact your doctor if: • Your waters break, or if you suspect you’re leaking amniotic fluid.

• Your baby is moving less than usual.

• You have vaginal bleeding (unless it’s just a small amount after a membrane sweep or the blood-tinged mucus of the show).

• You have a fever, severe headaches, changes in your vision, along with abdominal pain.

What should I do early on in labor?

This will depend on what time of day it is, what you like doing, and how you’re feeling. Keeping calm and relaxed will help your body to release the hormone oxytocin that you need for your labor to progress and will help you to cope with the contractions. Do whatever will help you to stay relaxed.

This could mean watching your favorite film, going for

a walk, puttering around at home, or asking a trusted friend or relative over to keep you company. You could alternate between walking and resting, or try taking a warm bath or shower to ease any aches and pains. If you can, try to get some rest to prepare you for the work ahead.

During early labor, you may feel hungry, so eat and drink if you feel like it. This will help to comfort you and may even help your labor to progress more smoothly.

Can I have contractions and not be in labor?

Yes. You can have pre-labor contractions. These help your cervix to go through the changes it needs to before it starts to dilate. During dilation, your cervix moves from the back (posterior position) to the front (anterior position). It will also be shortening and thinning (softening and effacing).

These changes may take place without you noticing over the last few weeks of your pregnancy. Or you may experience hours or days of cramps or contractions. These may be progressing the early changes in your cervix, even though they may not be dilating your cervix yet. A doctor can confirm whether cervical changes have started during an examination.

If your baby has his head down but his back to your back, it can take longer for his head to engage and for labor to start. Your contractions may be erratic and low in intensity, and you may have backache.

Your doctor will advise you about ways to cope at home until labor becomes stronger. Try a warm bath or massage to relieve the pain. If your baby is back-to-back, getting into an all-fours position, on your hands and knees, for half an hour or so now and again can help relieve backache.

Can I tell if labor is about to happen soon?

Maybe. Signs of the approach of labor include: • Lightening, when your baby’s head begins to drop into position in your pelvis. You may be able to breathe more deeply and eat more, but you’ll also need to use the restroom more frequently, and walking may be more difficult.

• Heavier and more mucus vaginal discharge.

• More frequent and noticeably more intense Braxton Hicks contractions.

• Mood swings and a surge of energy.

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What to Expect at the Hospital:

A Guide to Labor and Delivery

Wow! You have made it! The big day has arrived! I’m sure by now that you are ready to sleep without bathroom breaks, fit in to your old clothes, and regain control of your own body functions. Lucky for you the hard part is over, or is it? If you haven’t been in labor before, the first time can be a little scary. You don’t know what to expect. You’re anxious and a little scared. It is not as bad as most (if not all) of the stories you’ve heard.

So, what first? You will have to check in to the hospital once you have confirmed you are in labor. Most hospitals require you to either check in at the Emergency Room or with General Admissions. Once that is completed, you will be moved to Labor and Delivery where you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. Your Labor and Delivery nurse will assess you and the baby to make sure that everything is progressing normally. During this time an IV will be started and a baby heartbeat monitor, a contraction monitor – lots of equipment. Now – you just wait.

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Important to know.

Stages of Labor: FIRST STAGE The first stage really consists of three phases:

Early Phase: This phase typically lasts up to 12 hours although it’s usually considerably shorter for second and subsequent babies. As labor progresses, the contractions get longer and stronger.

Active Phase: Often this phase lasts up to six hours, although it can be a lot shorter. You should be in the hospital or birth center by now or en route. Contractions are much more intense, last about 40 to 60 seconds, and are spaced 3 to 5 minutes apart.

Breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and coaching are all important now. Pain relief is usually administered in this phase.

Transition Phase: This phase can last anywhere from a Utilize the water - Ever take a bath to relax? Humans have few minutes to several hours. Contractions last 60 to 90 seconds and come two or three minutes apart.

SECOND STAGE The second stage can last from minutes to hours – the average is about an hour for a first-time pregnancy (longer if you’ve had an epidural) – and ends with a moment that’s made up in equal parts of relief and breathtaking beauty: The birth of your baby.

THIRD STAGE Delivery of the placenta. It’s not over yet! This stage, which begins immediately after the birth of your baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta five to 10 minutes later, is usually anticlimactic, but necessary.

• During the course of your labor, you will be asked to make a lot of decisions.

• Do you want pain medicine?

• If so, will you want an epidural or general pain medication administered through the IV? • Episiotomy or no episiotomy?

These questions are best answered before you are in labor. Once the pain has started you may not be capable of making the best decisions. Labor can sometimes last for several hours, but there are many techniques that can be used to make these hours pass by a little quicker and easier.

a natural draw toward water. Most women will report that upon entering a tub in labor, the contractions were much more tolerable. I can tell from personal experience that it definitely takes the edge off.

Surround yourself with people that love you and will encourage you - Utilize your partner. At this point they are feeling helpless and useless. Have someone feed you ice chips, fluff your pillow, or massage your feet.

Remove negative energy from the birthing space - If there are spectators in the room who are commenting negatively or making you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable,

Here are a few ways to make it more bearable: Labor at home as long as possible - You will typically be more comfortable in your own environment with the freedom to move as you need to, and the privacy to act on your instincts to make noise and adjust, no matter how strange the position.

Create a comfortable birthing space - Even in a hospital, you can do small things to make your birthing space more welcoming. Dim lights, aromatherapy/scents you enjoy, pictures, your own blanket and pillow, and your own music can all help the space feel more comfortable.

Wearing your own clothes is also something you can do to feel more comfortable.

they should leave the space. There is a lot of psychology in birth. If you don’t feel comfortable, the labor will take longer and may be harder.

Give in - So many women try to fight the contractions/ pressure waves/rushes in attempt to make them less painful.

Give in to the sensations and try to see them more as a rush of energy. They are going to happen no matter what you do. When you give in and let them work, your labor will be more effective and typically quicker.

Remember, at the end of this day you will have a tiny miracle in your hands. That alone will make this day worth every pain you felt!

Move - I am well aware that sometimes in labor all you Some things to have on hand after the baby is born want to do is lie down, but that position isn’t always the – specifically for the new mom best for encouraging the baby to move down, especially in early labor. In most cultures, women do not lie down to give birth. They stand, squat, hug a tree, basically anything that feels good to them. They don’t tend to spend their labors lying down.

• Ice packs – in case of tearing during birth or swelling after; • 2-3 weeks supply of ultra-absorbent sanitary pads; • Panty liners; • Hemorrhoid wipes or cream (even if your pregnancy was trouble-free, these can be necessary after labor).

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Labor

Memories

My contractions started on (date/time):_________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ At first they felt like:__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ They were this far apart:______________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ They lasted this long:_________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ The person I called first to tell:_________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ His/her reaction:_____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Exciting Moments:____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Your Baby’s Birth

Story

Birthplace:__________________________________________________________________________________________ Time:______________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________ Length:____________________________________________ Weight:__________________________________________ Eye Color:__________________________________________ Hair Color:________________________________________ Who held baby first?__________________________________________________________________________________ People who were there:______________________________________________________________________________ Exciting moments:____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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These Tiny Feet and Hands Tiptoe and Crawl into your Heart and

Stay Forever

Left Hand

Right Hand

Left Foot

Right Foot

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PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

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Bonding with

Bonding with your baby refers to the intense attachment you develop with your new born. Bonding creates a secure and healthy attachment between the two of you.

Your voice, your touch, your smile, your eye contact, your cuddle, your response to cues and attention to your baby’s needs creates a secure and healthy attachment. In turn, this connection fosters a feeling of safety, which leads to trust, to communicate feelings, makes him easier to comfort, and makes him more affectionate. This bonding becomes the foundation for your child’s ability to connect with others – to have healthy relationships through childhood and beyond.

As a new mom – you’re busy, your baby consumes you…how do you find time to exercise (yes, we’re often consumed with the desire to return to our former healthy self – as if having a baby weren’t enough)…the good news is a workout can energize you – both your mind and your body.

Even better, you can exercise with your child – continue the bonding.

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Baby

The earlier infants and toddlers are exposed to movement and exercise, the better the brain-muscle connection. Physical competence makes exercise and activity a life-long habit and is a protection against obesity in the future – they become active as adults because their brains have incorporated the physical skills that make exercise enjoyable.

Today, you’ll find many gyms offer programs for Moms and their babies. These mommy-and-me programs and classes allow you to exercise and at the same time, it builds valuable coordination skills for the baby as well as develops his brain. You get the benefit of having an instructor guide you through these post-pregnancy workouts and your baby gets to watch other moms and babies in action (great stimulation).

Read Aloud

Every Day! What Children Like in Books

A simple guide to the kinds of books most suitable for children at different ages.

INFANTS (6-12 months) • Board books with photos of babies • Sturdy, brightly colored board books to touch and taste • Books with pictures of things they see every day – balls, bottles, chairs, dogs • Small books sized for small hands When children are read to by people they love, children learn to love books!

It’s never too early to start - Babies love to be held and to hear your voice. Cuddle up together and look at board books.

A few minutes is okay – young children may sit still for only a few minutes. They will listen longer as they grow.

Let your child turn the pages – Babies and toddlers need help to turn board book pages. A 3-year old likes to turn paper pages without help.

Read favorite stories over and over – Children love to hear the same stories again and again. This is how they learn.

Ask your child questions about the story – Where is the moon? What do you think will happen next? Be sure to give your child time to answer.

Read anywhere and anytime – Read at playtime, bedtime, and naptime. Read any place you have to wait. Read at the playground, in the park, in the car.

Go to your local library to get more books

– Your local library has lots of free books. Let your child choose which ones to bring home.

YOUNGER TODDLERS (12-24 months) • Sturdy board books they can handle and carry • Books that show children doing familiar things – sleeping, eating, playing • Goodnight books for bedtime • Books about saying goodbye and hello • Books with only a few words on the page • Books with simple rhymes or predictable text OLDER TODDLERS (24-36 months) • Books with pictures and names of many different things • Books with board pages – but also books with paper pages • Silly books and funny books • Books with rhyme and rhythm, and repeated text they can learn by heart • Books about children and families • Books about food, animals, trucks, and other favorite objects PRESCHOOLERS (3-5 years) • Books that tell stories • Books about kids who look like and live like them – and also books about different places and different ways of living • Books about going to school or daycare • Books about making friends • Books with simple text they can memorize • Counting books, alphabet books, search and find books

Oh BABY! | 79

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

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Dressing your Comfy and cute are the two ‘C’s every parent should learn when welcoming the little one. You want your baby to get the attention they deserve, that’s a no- brainer for parents; but you also want them to be relaxed and comfortable while enjoying the spotlight. Do babies need all the layers of clothes, big bows, cowboy boots, or even hair fixed to a “tee”? Do babies like it? Is there any way to be “comfy & cute”? Yes – keep it light and keep it casual.

Making Baby Comfy Cotton is the number one choice for happy babies.

An absorbent and breathable fabric, it keeps any baby comfortable. It is one of the most common fabrics for baby clothes. Cotton fabrics are available in organic versions, but make sure you buy two sizes bigger when going organic as organic cotton is typically not preshrunk (it will shrink about 10% after the first wash). Other options are Cotton/Polyester blends & Cotton/Spandex blends.

Prewashed clothing is soft, comfortable, and has gone through the shrinking process.

Fleece is another great choice for parents. A good material for keeping babies warm, it’s often used for baby outerwear and comes in various layers and weights. Fleece is good for the in-between seasons, the fabric isn’t as heavy as most people would think. It’s easy to wash and there are a variety of colors and styles.

Look for clothing with easy snap closures at leg inseams.

This makes your work go quickly. Slip on pants, shirts with snap closures, and coveralls.

Little One

consuming and if they come off and can end up in the baby’s mouth.

Try to avoid metal zippers and rough edges on snaps.

Avoid any possible choking hazards (buttons, sequins, etc.) when picking out clothes for your little fashionista.

Looking Cute Cuteness can come with comfort. Put your baby in the best fabric choice, (including bows, shoes, or anything else) and the smile of a happy baby says it all! Remember, not all fabric is suitable for the skin of an infant. With the right material, you can dress your baby in endless colors, patterns and designs.

TRENDS • Look for modern updates on classic styles – this can mean colors beyond the imagination or the norm for babies; • Go Green – clothing made from organic or recycled materials; consider all-natural bamboo clothing as it will adjust to your baby’s temperature and is great for layering; • Designer Clothing – if you’re going that route, it’s fabulously chic and babies are a market that designers are going for…keep in mind that the outfit will be fleeting – most newborns triple their body weight in a year – outgrowing that chic outfit.

Clothing to Avoid When buying clothes for your infant make sure seams are smooth and lie flat. Avoid buying clothes with seams that poke out or can easily scratch or irritate the skin.

Another obstacle you want to look out for are tight elastic bands at the arms, legs, neck, and waist. They can constrict your baby, irritate your baby’s skin, and cut off circulation – not good. Check the elastic before purchasing and see how much it gives. Does it stretch enough?

If your baby has no room to grow, keep looking! Make sure you go by weight and not by age.

Avoid buttons – they are time

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Proper Footwear for

Long ago…when I was a child, I remember my grandmother taking me to the cobbler to have shoes made just for me. I climbed on the cobbler’s bench, measurements were taken, leathers were chosen, and weeks later I had a nice pair of ‘saddle shoes’. Today, there are so many options available that it’s hard to know what shoe is right for your growing child.

Doctors will tell you that after children start walking, it is best to keep them barefoot or in a flexible shoe. Flexibility is the most important factor as your child’s bones and arches are developing. Interestingly, bones in a babies’ foot are soft and don’t really harden until a child is around 5 years old.

In addition, they continue developing late into their teen years – meaning – you don’t want to constrict soft, growing feet with rigid shoes.

When buying shoes, have your children’s bare feet measured. First measure the overall length; then measure the heel to the ball of the foot; then the width of the foot.

Measure both feet because many (if not most) children have two different sized feet – and you buy shoes for the larger foot. In addition, try shoes on at the end of the day since feet swell over the course of the day.

Look for shoes made with quality materials – breathable materials like leather or canvas. In addition to being more durable, they will keep the child’s foot cooler and dryer.

Did you know that children’s feet sweat 2x more than adult feet? The better materials will help to prevent blisters, discomfort, and stinky shoes.

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Children

Once you’ve chosen shoes to try on, you must address the shoe’s fit. Measure the toe box, allowing room for the big toe to spread out and function as the body’s lever; measure across the foot in the width checking for both side support and room for flexing; and measure the heel, making sure the heel is neither too loose nor putting undue strain on the Achilles.

Make sure that shoes aren’t too big, if they’re too big, they can cause tripping, falling, and the shoe will wear out faster because the shoe ‘breaks’ at the wrong point. This is similar to passing along shoes from one child to another – not good. Worn shoes have taken on the wear pattern of the previous child and that includes the foot shape in the insole and the walking gait on the outsole.

Our children deserve shoe styles that are comfortable and accommodating. Perhaps that’s why my grandmother took me to a cobbler – she understood the value of proper footwear and made it a priority. Thankfully there are good shoe companies who have invested in research and development into finding out which materials will ‘wear and tear’ and last a long time. You can feel confident with brands like Stride Rite, Robeez, and Se Kai Run. If you have any worries about your child’s foot development, consult your pediatrician or podiatrist.

A final word…don’t wait for shoes to be ‘broken in’… they won’t get more comfortable over time…they need to fit and feel good now.

Babywearing...

What It Is and How it Works

•

Babywearing is the practice of keeping your baby close and connected to you as you engage in your daily activities. Babywearing has been an essential part of child rearing in many cultures for centuries. It is now growing in popularity in Western cultures. For infants, baby carriers make the transition from the womb to the outside world – easier. Close contact keeps your baby near your beating heart and continues the constant motion they experienced in the womb. Babywearning gives you and your little one a special connection while you go about your daily activities.

Babywearing can be practiced by all caregivers – Mom, Dad, grandparents, siblings, nannies, nurses, doulas – anyone who cares for your newborn. There are plenty of options when selecting a carrier. You have the option of using wraps, ring slings, pouch slings, mei tais, or the buckle carrier. You’ll find the one that works best for you and provides comfort for you and the baby.

The Benefits of Babywearing: • Promotes bonding • Supports breastfeeding Can aid in postpartum depression • Makes caregiving easier • Promotes sleep • Promotes a paternal bond • Parental rhythms (walking, heartbeat, etc.) can have a soothing effect on infants, making them calmer • Reduces crying • Allows the wearer to have 2 free hands to do daily tasks • An upright position is great for babies with reflux

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Introducing the

Meeting The Family Pooch For years, your dog has been the one and only ‘baby’ in the family. Now, there’s a new one and only coming.

It’s normal to be concerned about your pet’s reaction to the baby. Will there be jealousy? Will there be aggressive behavior? What you need to know is that the best way to introduce the new baby to the old ‘baby’ (the family pet) is to start preparing the old ‘baby’ almost as soon as you become pregnant. This can be done effectively no matter the age of the dog. Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks!

The best place to start is by understanding your dog’s way of thinking. Dogs are pack animals and interact with their family in the same way they would interact with a dog pack. The most important thing in a dog’s life is structure or pack structure as it is commonly called. For a dog to feel that there is proper structure in its life, they need to have a distinct pack leader that keeps the order in the family or pack. In most homes, the dog is often treated like the pack leader – but, if this role isn’t adjusted before the baby comes and you try to correct inappropriate behavior, that introduction may not go as well as you would like and could cause future problems. We like to think of our dogs as our children, but their needs are much different than the

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Fur-Babies

needs of a human baby. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you are providing the proper structure that the dog needs before you introduce the new baby to the family. This is best done with the advice of a professional trainer who has experience in pack structure training. If you do need some training for your dog, it is well worth the investment for the happiness and safety of your new family unit.

It is also best to make sure your dog knows basic obedience commands like sit, stay, down, leash walking, and coming when called. If your dog doesn’t know these commands, a visit with a professional trainer is in order. If you contact a trainer about your pack structure, the same trainer should be able to provide a training program that includes both pack structure and obedience training. When the dog has mastered the obedience commands, use them while doing things you will be doing when the baby comes. Wrap up a doll like a baby and rock it, feed it, and walk around with it. During these practices, periodically reward the dog with treats so that it associates baby activities with something positive. Babies make strange sounds, so help the dog get accustomed to the noises by playing recordings.

Set up a ‘safe’ area for the dog to retreat to when the baby is crying or there’s additional baby commotion. This could be the laundry room, an office, or any other room that will allow the dog to escape and relax. Have water, a crate, sleeping pads, and anything that makes the dog feel secure in the ‘safe’ area. Dogs are naturally denning animals, so they like small spaces such as crates to retreat to when they are scared or stressed. You could also feed your dog in this area so that they can eat in a stress-free environment. Never allow your baby to be around the dog during feeding times to avoid any unnecessary stress on your dog or possible food aggression issues.

Make sure the dog’s routine is kept as normal as possible, both when you are in the hospital and when you return home with the new baby. This routine should consist

of a feeding schedule, a walking schedule, and brief play times without the new baby. Prior to bringing the baby home, have someone bring home something that has the baby’s smell on it, like a blanket or clothing, so the dog can become familiar with the baby’s odor. Let the dog smell the item and give them treats at the same time so they will associate the baby’s odor with something positive.

Upon returning home, greet the dog without the baby. Place the dog on a leash and have someone not holding the baby there to handle them. Let the dog get used to the sounds and smells associated with the baby. After the dog has calmed down and the baby is quiet you may start to make introductions. With the dog still on a leash put them in a sit/stay posture and gradually bring the baby closer to the dog. Repeat this introduction several times, each time bringing the dog and baby closer together until you feel comfortable enough to invite the dog to sniff the baby. It is generally a good idea to teach the dog a boundary around the baby of a few feet unless otherwise invited by the parents. This ensures that there will be no accidental baby/dog interactions that could cause unwanted behavior.

Be sure to devote the same amount of attention to the dog as before. If you go for a walk with the baby, take the dog. Acclimate your dog to the baby stroller before walking your dog next to it with the baby in it. If you can’t handle the dog and the stroller together, have someone go with you to walk the dog. The dog can be allowed the same household freedom as before, with the exception of the baby’s room, as long as it doesn’t cause any unwanted behavior. Use a gate to prevent the dog from entering the baby’s room without you.

There are no set guidelines as to when a dog will get used to a baby. It could take a few days or a few weeks.

It should take less time with proper preparation and good management. If, after several weeks, there has been no sign of unwanted behavior, it is unlikely that anything serious will happen. It is good to remember that dogs are still animals so their behavior can never be fully guaranteed.

Proper management and supervision remain important throughout the life of your dog. All experts agree that you should never leave a dog unattended with a baby under any circumstances. The sudden movement of a baby could startle the dog and cause unwanted behavior such as biting.

Most dogs will adjust to a new baby without incident.

Observe the dog’s behavior for any signs of unwanted behavior or possible aggression. That way, you can avoid problems and accidents. If you do observe any behavior that is concerning, call a trainer so the problem can

be remedied. When introduced properly, with proper preparation, you can have a smooth introduction of your new baby to your old ‘baby’.

Mixing Babies and Cats Your cat may be a bit skittish around the new baby at first, but in time, will grow accustomed to the new baby…and learn to dodge them as they begin to crawl and walk. A cat will normally leave a baby alone unless provoked. If the new baby is lying on the floor and grabs your cat’s leg or tail, your cat may hiss, nip, or scratch them. If your cat is infected, your baby could develop CSD or Cat Scratch Disease. Bartonella Henselae is thought to be the culprit behind CSD. Kittens less than 6 months of age usually carry BH, although some older cats can carry it too. Fleas transmit the bacteria from cat to cat. Individuals who contract CSD break out in blisters or bumps near the site of the bite or scratch (7 to 12 days after the incident); you’ll have tender and swollen lymph nodes, possibly a fever headache, rash, sore throat, and loss of appetite. In rare cases, some individuals have experienced infections of the liver, spleen, bones, eyes, or lungs. Inflammation of the brain or seizures can also occur. If you suspect your child has CSD, consult your physician.

Oh BABY! | 85

It’s Good for You!

Making your own Baby Food Making your own baby food is easier than you think. It’s also less expensive than buying it pre-made. The reality is you’ll more than likely buy and make your own baby food. If you’re a person who likes to cook – you’ll love making baby food. You can be confident you’re giving the baby the best and healthiest ingredients available.

Before you get started, there are some things that you will need. A steamer basket (either a stand-alone or microwave model) will ensure that you keep the nutrients in the food and not in the water. When your baby first begins eating solid food, you will want to puree their food to a fine consistency. It can be a little coarser when they get older. To puree food, you will need a blender or a food mill. Other things you will need are ice cube trays, plastic wrap and food containers or storage bags.

When preparing the food, be sure to wash your hands and use clean utensils. Give all fruit and vegetables a thorough washing to remove dirt and pesticides. In the beginning, you will want the food to be mushy, so steam or boil fruit and vegetables. Then, puree the food in a food processor or food mill until you get the consistency you want. To remove any peels, strain the food. Put the pureed food into ice cube trays, cover with plastic wrap and put them into the freezer. After the food is frozen, put it into a storage bag or food container. Label what each food is and make sure it’s dated.

Frozen baby food can be left in the freezer

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for two months. Take as many cubes as you want out of the freezer and either thaw them in the microwave or put them in a cup in a pan of boiling water with a lid on.

Use fresh fruits and vegetables when making homemade baby food as much as possible. If you can’t use fresh, frozen vegetables are better than canned and canned fruit can be used when fresh fruit is out of season. Don’t use a lot of additives like salt or sugar, especially in applesauce because the apples are sweet enough on their own (buy the right apples). Lemon juice has been known to cause allergic reactions in some babies, so skip it. Bananas and kiwis don’t need to be steamed or cooked. They are soft enough already.

Popular fruit and vegetable choices to start with include: apples, pears, peaches, bananas, carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, green beans and apricots.

When starting meat, do so slowly. Either broil or boil the meat and mix it in a blender with some milk and cream of rice or a banana, so you can get the right consistency.

A good meat to start with is chicken.

As you introduce solids into your baby’s diet, start with one food at a time. This includes blending two foods together. That way, if your baby has any allergies, they can be detected easily. As you determine what they are not allergic to, you can start blending food together.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations and be patient with your baby. After all, this is a whole new

Apple Puree

Peel and core 10 large apples an d cut in to slices; place in a pan and just ab out cover the apples with w ater; cover the pa n and bring to a boil; w atch the water in the pan as it will boil down.

After 10 -15 minut es, check the consistency you want them so ft so they puree easily. Plac e in blender, blen d and cool. Serve to ba by.

Try this recipe with peaches or pears!

Sweet Potato Puree

4oz of Sweet Potato 1 Cup of Water

Pea Puree

g to and in a pot, brin Dice sweet pota a boil; eces and water to the sweet potato pi s your minutes or until it ha cook for about 12 r, - transfer to a blende desired consistency e to baby. blend, let cool, serv ts, same thing with carro You can do the inutes, cook them for 20 m but peel them and d serve to baby. then blend, cool, an

3 Cups of Peas

(organic frozen has the least amount of salt)

2 Tablespoons of W ater

Steam frozen pe as for 3 minutes; pl ace the peas and 2 tabl espoons of water in a blender. PUree for 2 minutes - or until the texture is smooth an d creamy (you can add more water to get the desired consist ency).

Cool and serve to ba by.

n Puree

White Bea

1

inin Beans

) Cannell Can (15oz (rinsed a

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oo 1 tablesp

e beans or pulse th s s e c ro p tena food ute, consis in Using m a t u o if too ater for ab dd water a r, and the w e tt u b t like peanu cy will be thick.

Chicken P

asta Soup 1 1/2 Cup s of low s odium chicken broth 2 tablesp oons of p astina (un Bring b cooked) roth to a

boil, add for anothe pastina, c r 6 to 7 m ook in u te s ( tina is coo watch tha ked). Serv t pase warm.

Oh BABY! | 87

88 | Oh BABY!

Help your Child

Get Ready to Read

environment, will help insure that a child has a sound language foundation on which to build when she enters school.

Read with your child. Reading is a wonderful way to spend time with your child, introduce new words, concepts and encourage imagination. Choose books that are age appropriate for your child and that will be of interest. At this age, reading should always be fun. Wait for the right mood or create routines that include reading when there are no other distractions. Ask questions about the pictures from favorite books or stories and encourage your child to read back to you.

Sing with your child. Singing is another fun way to introduce language to infants and toddlers. Singing introduces rhythm and rhyme which are important concepts when children learn to read. Any songs will do--children’s music, Broadway tunes, lullabies or even pop music. Babies PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY and toddlers love them all! Get silly, dance, sway, clap and have fun with music and Long before their first day of school, in fact from the day your baby. they are born, children are learning the skills they need to Talk with your child. Children are learning the nuances of be good readers. By reading, talking and singing with their language long before they can express themselves. Talk with babies, parents and caregivers become their child’s first your child all the time about everything. Talk about what you teacher. Your public library system offers many resources, are doing, why you are doing it and how you are feeling. including knowledgeable library staff and its award-winning Remember to give your child time to participate in the Ready to Read: Zero to Three initiative, to help you. conversation. She will do this first by smiling, then cooing, Ready to Read: Zero to Three is a combination of programs babbling, using words and finally using sentences. Give your and materials to support parents and caregivers as they child plenty of time to join in and always encourage the encourage their child’s language development efforts. An amazing amount of growth and development occurs during communication efforts. the first three years of a baby’s life. Much of this development When these three activities are done playfully, often, and is crucial to creating the foundation that will support reading in a positive environment, children soak up all that language when a child is actually ready to learn to read, usually around and build a solid foundation which they will carry with them to school. kindergarten or first grade.

When a baby is born, her brain is like a sponge soaking Programs, materials and information help to support up every experience she encounters. The number, variety parents and caregivers as they help their children get Ready and nature of these experiences have a significant impact to Read. Storytime programs are offered at many locations on development. Ready to Read: Zero to Three suggests where parents and caregivers can enjoy special moments three activities that, when engaged in often and in a positive with their children and even make new friends.

Oh BABY! | 89

Baby’s First

Your baby’s primary teeth (baby teeth) are quite important.

Decay and/or loss of these teeth can jeopardize the proper development of the permanent teeth. It is recommended that you take your child to the dentist for his first dental examination, cleaning, and topical fluoride treatment at his first birthday.

For most babies, that first tooth starts coming in between 4 and 8 months. Girls tend to get teeth faster than boys.

Occasionally, some newborns are born with teeth. These are usually extra and should be examined by a children’s dentist. The dentist may remove these teeth in order to prevent problems with feeding and damage to the newborn’s tongue.

Babies get teeth at different rates. Baby teeth generally come in pairs, and as long as your baby starts to get teeth before 18 months, you probably don’t need to worry.

When teeth come in, most babies experience pain and can be cranky and fussy. Common signs of teething include sore, tender, and swollen gums; excessive drool; loss of appetite; difficulty sleeping; and a low-grade fever. Babies may be clingy and chew on their fingers and toys. They may break out in a rash or their face, neck, and chest due to the excessive drool.

When Teeth Come In: Central incisors – 6 to 8 months.

Lateral incisors – 7 to 9 months.

Cuspids – 16 to 18 months.

First molars – 12 to 14 months.

Second molars – 20 to 24 months.

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Tooth

After your baby’s teeth begin to come in, you’ll need to take care of them. Use a piece of wet gauze to wipe them off or a toothbrush if necessary – do this twice per day.

Don’t use toothpaste until they are older.

If your baby does not have teeth at 18 months, talk to your physician. There may be an underlying problem, such as hypopituitarism or hypothyroidism that is causing the delay and these need to be addressed.

By the time they turn 4 years of age, your child should have a full mouth of baby teeth – 20 to be exact. As guides for permanent teeth, baby teeth are important and should be taken care of – brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist.

Breast-Feeding and Bottle Feeding Whether to breast-feed or bottle feed is an important concern of the new mother. Consultation with your pediatrician will result in the decision that is best for you and your baby. If the bottle is used, the type of nipple will have no significant effect on your baby’s bite. However, after the eruption of the first tooth (4 to 8 months), allowing the infant to nurse from the breast or the bottle for extended periods of time can have destructive effects on the teeth.

Most children will complete their nutritional requirements at mealtime. Children who continue to bottle feed while napping, sleeping, or in-between meals past 6 months of age, run the risk of developing extensive tooth decay. Even breast milk can cause infant tooth decay. The most damaging bottle contents are fruit juices like apple or grape, citrus juices like orange or lemon, and sweetened beverages.

Carbonated drinks and sugar or syrup-sweetened water Continued on page 91

are also dangerous. Sleeping with a bottle should never be allowed to start. If the child must sleep with a bottle, then it should contain water only. If your child has been sleeping with a bottle or does have a daytime bottle habit, you should arrange for a pediatric dental examination as soon as hospital.

Pacifiers It is recommended that the baby be weaned from the bottle or breast at about one year of age. If the baby still has a continued need to suck, a pacifier may be used. The most important consideration in selecting a pacifier is safety. It should be one with a large handle which will not separate.

Thumbsucking Thumbsucking at an early age is very common and while continued thumbsucking can lead to deformation of the upper front part of the mouth, it is not advisable for parents to attempt to terminate the habit. Bribes and threats will do little to correct the habit and often enhance the anxiety and guilt your child may have. Some children will discontinue thumbsucking by themselves, often when they start preschool or kindergarten. For those who do not, most habits can be successfully corrected with the help of the pediatric dentist when, and only when, the child indicates a desire to stop.

Teething The first tooth will usually erupt between the ages of 4 to 8 months. Teething can be a most disturbing time for new parents, but this is a normal process in the child’s development. Although often the subject of debate between physicians, pedodontists, and parents, there is some evidence to suggest that certain other findings, such as a rise in temperature, diarrhea, increased salivation/ drooling, rashes, and changes in the bowel habits, can occur in conjunction with teething. The use of teething rings, aspirin or Tylenol, and topical anesthetics or numbing agents can be helpful. If there is a doubt or concern do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician or family physician.

Nutrition Children should have few problems with their teeth if they eat a well-balanced diet high in the major food groups (dairy, meats, breads and cereals, and fruits and vegetables), and low in sugars. All children will eat sweetened foods from time to time. The cavity causing effects of these sweetened foods can be reduced by the following: limit sweets to mealtime and avoid sweets for snacks. Encourage liquid sweets instead of sticky, retentive sweets. Group sweets together instead of spreading them out over the day. Remember, each time sweetened foods contact the bacteria (plaque) in our mouths, these bacteria produce tooth destroying acid for approximately 30 minutes. Keep

acid products down by reducing the frequency of sugar intake.

Fluoride Supplementation The intake of optimal amounts of fluoride is beneficial to developing permanent teeth. Fluoride actually becomes incorporated into the enamel of the developing tooth making it stronger and more resistant to future decay. Your pediatrician or pediatric dentist can prescribe these for you. Fluoride supplements are recommended from birth through about age 8.

Topical fluorides are applied directly to the teeth. They are most effective soon after eruption of the teeth because the teeth are porous (not fully mineralized) when they first erupt. Complete mineralization actually takes several years and thus topical fluorides are recommended at least until adulthood.

Tooth Cleaning The best time to start routine cleaning of your baby’s mouth is shortly after birth. The gums should be gently wiped with a soft wet washcloth or gauze. This routine activity will get your baby adjusted to having his mouth touched by your fingers. When his first tooth erupts into his mouth, continue cleaning in the same manner. At about one year, it is recommended that your child be given his first toothbrush; it should be small with soft bristles. At this age, your child will not be able to adequately clean his own teeth and you will have to assist. By introducing the toothbrush at this early age, the child will develop a lifetime habit of oral hygiene.

At about age 2 ½ , after the eruption of the second primary molars, flossing should be introduced. Parents will have to assume the responsibility of flossing until the age of 6 or 7.

The toothpaste selected should be one with fluoride. Avoid brands which claim to ‘whiten’ or ‘brighten’ teeth. These are usually quite abrasive which can be damaging when used over an extended period of time.

If a child younger than 3 years has a cavity or any dark suspicious spot on a tooth or suffers from trauma to his teeth, he should be taken to the pedodontist immediately.

Good habits begin early…so do healthy smiles…

Oh BABY! | 91

Baby’s Tooth

Chart

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

B A

Date of Eruption

D

C

Date of Eruption

D

UPPER UPPER

E

E

E D

LOWER C

B

A

A

Date of Eruption

E

LOWER

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

B

C

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

A

Date of Eruption

D

B

C

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

Date of Eruption

A. Central Incisor 92 | Oh BABY!

B. Lateral Incisor

C. Cuspid

D. First Molar

E. Second Molar

Getting your Body

Back

Dedication, patience, and perseverance are what every mom needs to get that pre-baby body back! If you want it, go for it, but get it back the healthy way!

Here’s a few things every “new mom” needs to know about getting back into shape after baby.

Forget about the celebrities who look like they were never pregnant just weeks after the baby!

Let’s just say it’s not realistic, nor is it healthy – ask any expert. Celebrities statistically do not gain as much weight during their pregnancies as average women, they have resources the average women doesn’t have, and many of them go on crazy diets (wrong!).

The worst thing you can do is try to do too much too soon. So, for the first six weeks after birth – DO NOT go on a diet – especially if you are breast-feeding. Your baby needs the nutrients and you need the energy.

“You should be eating at least 1,800-2,000 calories a day while breastfeeding, and if you eat less you will not only be shortchanging yourself, you’ll be shortchanging your baby.

You can’t produce quality milk if you are not eating enough,” says nutritionist Elizabeth Somer, RD, author of Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy.

“If you can lose a couple of pounds before then, that’s OK, but you really don’t want to cut your food intake dramatically during these early weeks. You need the energy, and you need the calories for breastfeeding,” she says.

Awesome news: Breastfeeding burns calories! It can help mothers lose extra weight gained during pregnancy and if you’re not breastfeeding, Somer says, it’s OK to watch your caloric intake, but never aim to lose more than a pound a week. “Pregnancy is not unlike running a marathon every day for nine months. You have put your body through the wringer. So even if you ate well, several nutrients are still likely to be compromised. You need this postpartum time to restore your nutritional status and your energy,” she says.

Exercise is highly recommended, it can not only help you whip into shape but also increase energy and may even reduce risks of postpartum depression.) Exercise is a key factor in the health of new moms, but before you start your exercise please ask your doctor if you’re ready (if you had a difficult pregnancy and/or complicated delivery especially)

Most doctors will say start whenever you feel ready and work up your activity, if you can’t keep up with any program you do decide to start, you’re probably not ready or the program could be too extreme.

Walking is a great recommendation, go on some stroller routes and the baby would love it too, you’ll get that one on one time with your little one, while getting exercise so it’s a win-win!

Tip: If you didn’t have a C-Section you could also focus on core workouts!

Don’t be in such a hurry to lose baby fat, be cautious about any exercise that puts major stress on your jointsexamples like jogging, jumping, running. You could end up on the sideline for months with serious injuries.

As exercising pay close attention to these warning signs and seek medical attention if they appear: Excessive bleeding, pelvic or abdominal pain, extreme shortness of breath, exhaustion even after mild exercise, muscle soreness that does not go away in a day or two.

Besides that have fun, eat good and love your momma body!

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Baby’s Early

Talk, talk, talk to your baby every day. Your baby would rather hear your voice and look at your face above anything else. Mommy’s voice is his or her absolute favorite sound because your baby associates it with warmth, food, and comfort. By talking to your baby he/she will learn the importance of speech long before he/she comprehends or speaks himself. In just a matter of weeks if not days, he/she will recognize your voice whether he/she can see you or not.

Talking to him/her will calm him when he/she is distressed or give him/her joy. When he/she responds to you with a smile, a gurgle or a coo and he/she sees your reactions, he/she is learning that talk is a two-way process. Early conversation will teach your baby many rules of communication as well as social skills. Although we are all guilty, try not to “baby talk”

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Education with your baby all the time; mix in adult language and eventually stop the baby talk all together.

You should start reading to your baby immediately even though you don’t think he/she can comprehend. Use different voices and faces while reading and show the baby the pictures. Point to objects in the book and tell your baby what it is. By reading to your baby from the beginning, you open many doors of imagination and learning for him/her.

From the moment your baby is born, he/she is learning about the world around him.

By 4 months, your baby will entertain himself/herself by babbling and making all kinds of new sounds. His/Her memory and attention span will increase and your baby will begin to apply all the information they’ve absorbed to day-today activities. At this time, your baby will be able to sense your mood by the tone in your voice, as well as learn the concept of cause and effect. He/She will more than likely stumble upon this discovery by accident, for example realizing when he/she kicks his feet, the crib shakes or when he/she shakes a rattle it makes noise. When your baby discovers that he/she can cause these reactions, he/ she will begin to experiment in a number of ways to make things happen. Your baby will also discover that he/she can cause a reaction from you or an audience. It is important for your baby’s development, to participate in this type of play with him/her in order to help him/her learn their personal ability to influence the baby environment.

Close to 7 months, your baby will discover that objects still exist even when they are out of sight. This is a principle called object permanence. Prior to this point in your baby’s life, he/she assumed that the world consisted of only things he/she could see. For instance, when you left the

room, he/she assumed you had vanished or if you hid a toy under a blanket, he/she thought it was gone forever and saw no reason to look for it. But now your baby is realizing that you are the same person that puts him down to bed at night, that his ball on the floor is the same ball that was in his crib the night before. Your baby knows that when playing Peek-A-Boo, your face did not really vanish never to be seen again when you put your hands over your face. Playing these types of games with your baby will help him/her continue to learn about object permanence for many months to come.

Screen time (such as cell phones, tablets and TV) for children under the age of 2 is controversial and some professionals suggest no “screen” time at all before the age of 2 years. It’s said that certain applications and movies could be beneficial, but suggest no more than 30-60 minutes a day. It’s never been proven that it’s bad or good - talk to your pediatrician on this subject and decide what you both think is best for your child.

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Vaccine

Tracker

Hepatitis B Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Haemophilus Influenza Type B Inactivated Poliovirus Measles, Mumps, Rubella Varicella Meningococcal Pneumococcal Influenza Hepatitis A Rotavirus HPV

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yearly

11-12 yrs

4-6 yrs.

24 mos.

18 mos.

15 mos.

12 mos.

6 mos.

4 mos.

2 mos.

1 mo.

Vaccine

Birth

This immunization schedule is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If You’d like to try a modified schedule, speak with your pediatrician.

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Know the Signs of a Speech or

Language Disorder

Speech disorders refer to conditions in which a child has problems creating or forming speech sounds needed to communicate with others. With early detection and intervention, many communication disorders can be identified, treated, reversed, or prevented.

The first step is to stay aware and attuned to your child – as a parent, if you notice a behavior or get a feeling that something is off or unusual – pay attention, don’t doubt yourself. The fact is, early intervention can prevent or reverse a communication disorder. Get a correct diagnosis.

A speech and language therapist is critical in the treatment of language disorders. They educate parents by helping them to identify problems early on. The therapist will spend one on one time with your child in language and therapy sessions. The therapist will also work with parents to help them include spoken language into daily activities and play.

Signs of a Speech or Language Disorder • Does not smile or interact with others (birth and older) • Does not babble (4-7 months) • Makes only a few sounds or gestures, like pointing (712 months) • Does not follow or understand what you or others say (7 months-2 years) • Says only a few sounds, words, or gestures (12-18 months) • Says less than 50 words (2 years) when the average is 50 to 300 words • Words are not easily understood (18 months-2 years)

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• Does not combine or put words together to make sentences (1.5-3 years) • Has trouble playing and talking with other children (2-3 years) • Has trouble with early reading and writing skills (2.5-3 years) • Says p, b, m, h, and w incorrectly in words (1-2 years) • Says k, g, f, t, d, and n incorrectly in words (2-3 years) • Produces speech that is unclear (2-3 years) • Struggles to say sounds or words (3-4 years)

Your Baby’s

Soon after birth, your doctor will briefly examine your infant’s eyes to rule out signs of serious neonatal eye problems. After that, you’ll watch for milestones or markers that will indicate your baby’s vision is progressing normally. The first few years of a child’s life are critical in the development of good vision.

Interestingly, it takes several months for your child’s vision to fully develop. Nerve cells in their retina and brain are not developed and they don’t have the ability to focus on nearby objects. Don’t be alarmed – it just takes time.

During the first 4 months your baby sees a blurred world, yet he will begin to follow moving objects with the eyes and will reach out for things – this is the time that hand-eye coordination begins to develop. Early in this time (at one month) your baby’s eyes are not sensitive to light, so you can leave lights on in the nursery and this will not disturb their sleep.

At 4 to 6 months, as the baby begins moving she will develop eye/body coordination skills and will begin playing patty-cake or other similar games.

At 6 to 8 months both eyes should focus equally and your child will mimic others, explore, and notice more details.

A child should have his or her first eye exam between 6 and 12 months. Not surprisingly, an infant eye exam differs greatly from what the average person experiences (‘better

Vision

1 or better 2?’). By using different lights, lenses, shapes/ pictures, and techniques the doctor can determine if there are any vision issues present. After that first exam, if there are no concerns, it is recommended that your child have a yearly eye exam to track the growth and development of your child’s vision system. Doctors will check to make sure your child can see well, have proper eye movements, depth perception, and eye coordination. These make a difference when it comes to reading and learning.

At 6 to 8 months your baby will use both eyes to judge distances, will grasp items (throw items) with greater precision. Don’t be concerned if your infant’s eyes are beginning to change color as most babies are born with blue eyes because darker pigments in the iris aren’t completely developed at birth. Over time, dark pigment is produced in the iris and your child’s eyes may turn to brown, green, gray, or a mixture of colors.

Watch for symptoms that may indicate a need for a professional – eye turning inward, outward, upward, or downward for long periods of time; favoring one eye over the other; bumping into objects on one side; red eyes or lids; excessive tearing; encrusted eyelids or frequent styes.

A white or frosty pupil in photos can indicate a congenital cataract or other growth blocking the retina. In these cases, always call a professional to schedule an examination.

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The Baby

Is Here!!!

Now the fun begins.

Breast milk is best for your baby; the benefits extend well beyond basic nutrition, and it is also good for the health of the mother.

Breast milk is packed with disease-fighting nutrients that protect the baby from illness.

A nursing mom’s biggest worry is whether or not she is making enough milk, and what to do when you know you are not. This seems to be the biggest cause of stress in new mothers.

The following herbs can be very supportive in increasing milk production: • Fenugreek • Fennel • Blessed thistle • Goat’s Rue

These can be taken in a tea form, often available in an alcohol-free tincture and sometimes in capsules.

Then there are some other ways that you can work on increasing the milk production and flow. Breasts work on demand, so the more your baby nurses, the more milk your body will create. When a baby is going through a growth spurt and seems to need to nurse a lot, a mother will often think that she doesn’t have enough milk. What’s really happening is the baby is really priming your body to create

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enough milk to support that increased appetite.

It is important for the baby to nurse from both sides during each nursing session. If the baby seems to lose interest or falls asleep, that’s a cue to switch sides. This stimulates both breasts to make more milk, and helps to ensure your baby is emptying each breast.

Lose the binky! Any time the baby is sucking on a pacifier is time lost on stimulating your milk production.

If the problems continue, it is a good idea to check with a lactation consultant as sometimes there could be a problem. Lactation consultants specialize in helping moms to establish a good nursing routine, and often have great hints that they have learned from experience in working with moms who are nursing.

A good diet that is packed with nutrients is also really important, as the baby is taking many of those nutrients, and there needs to be enough left over to support the mother’s health as well. Continue with the prenatal vitamins while nursing, as this will help to give you the nutrients needed to support optimum health for both you and the baby.

There are some wonderful herbal breast feeding products available in health food stores using the healing strength of nature.

Baby

Milestones

Slept Through the Night:______________________________________________________________________________ Smiled:_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Rolled onto Tummy:__________________________________________________________________________________ Rolled onto Back:____________________________________________________________________________________ Laughed:___________________________________________________________________________________________ Blew a Kiss:__________________________________________________________________________________________ Sat & Played with toy:_________________________________________________________________________________ Waved Bye-Bye:______________________________________________________________________________________ Held a Bottle:________________________________________________________________________________________ Held a Cup:_________________________________________________________________________________________ Ate Baby Food:______________________________________________________________________________________ Held a Toy:__________________________________________________________________________________________ Crawled:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Danced:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Had a Haircut:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Clapped Hands:______________________________________________________________________________________ Made a Sound:______________________________________________________________________________________ Walked:_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Went on an Outing:__________________________________________________________________________________ Played Peek-a-Boo:___________________________________________________________________________________ Stood Alone:________________________________________________________________________________________ Spoke Your First Word:________________________________________________________________________________ Other Unforgettable Moments:_________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Tracking Your Baby…

The First Month:

Developmental Milestones

•Can lift head momentarily •Turns head from side to side when lying on back •Hands stay clenched •Strong grasp reflex present •Looks and follows object moving in front of them in range of 45 degrees •Sees black and white patterns •Quiets when a voice is heard •Cries to express displeasure •Makes throaty sounds •Looks intently at parents when they talk to him/her

The Second Month: •Lifts head almost 45 degrees when lying on stomach •Head bobs forward when held in sitting position •Grasp reflex decreases •Follows dangling objects with eyes •Visually searches for sounds •Makes noises other than crying •Cries become distinctive (wet, hungry, etc.)

•Vocalizes to familiar voices •Social smile demonstrated in response to various stimuli

Red flags: Each child develops at her own pace, but talk to your baby’s doctor if your 1-month-old: •Feeds slowly or doesn’t suck well •Doesn’t seem to focus her eyes or watch things moving nearby •Doesn’t react to bright lights •Seems especially stiff or floppy •Doesn’t respond to loud sounds

The Third Month: •Begins to bear partial weight on both legs when held in a standing position •Able to hold head up when sitting but still bobs forward •When lying on stomach can raise head and shoulders between 45 and 90 degrees •Bears weight on forearms •Grasp reflex absent •Holds objects but does not reach for them •Clutches own hands and pulls at blankets and clothes •Follows objects 180 degrees •Locates sound by turning head and looking in the same direction •Squeals, coos, babbles, and chuckles •“Talks” when spoken to •Recognizes faces, voices, and objects •Smiles when he/she sees familiar people, and engages in play with them •Shows awareness to strange situations

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Red flags

Each child develops at his own pace, but talk to your child’s doctor if your 3-month-old: •Can’t support his head well •Can’t grasp objects •Can’t focus on moving objects •Doesn’t smile •Doesn’t react to loud sounds •Ignores new faces •Seems upset by unfamiliar people or surroundings

The Fourth Month: •Drooling begins •Good head control •Sits with support •Bears some weight on legs when held upright •Raises head and chest off surface to a 90 degree angle •Rolls from back to side •Explores and plays with hands •Tries to reach for objects but overshoots •Grasps objects with both hands •Eye-hand coordination begins •Makes consonant sounds •Laughs •Enjoys being rocked, bounced or swung

The Fifth Month: •Signs of teething begin •Holds head up when sitting •Rolls from stomach to back •When lying on back puts feet to mouth •Voluntarily grasps and holds objects •Plays with toes •Takes objects directly to mouth •Watches objects that are dropped •Says “ah-goo” or similar vowel-consonant combinations •Smiles at mirror image •Gets upset if you take a toy away •Can tell family and strangers apart •Begins to discover parts of his/her body

The Sixth Month: •Chewing and biting occur •When on stomach, can lift chest and part of stomach off the surface, bearing weight on hands •Lifts head when pulled to a sitting position •Rolls from back to stomach •Bears majority of weight when being held in a standing position •Grasps and controls small objects •Holds bottle •Grabs feet and pulls to mouth

•Adjusts body to see an object •Turns head from side to side and then looks up or down •Prefers more complex visual stimuli •Says one syllable sounds like “ma”, “mu”, “da”, and “di” •Recognizes parents

Red flags: Each child develops at her own pace, but talk to your child’s doctor if your baby: •Seems very stiff or floppy •Can’t hold her head steady •Can’t sit on her own •Doesn’t respond to noises or smiles •Isn’t affectionate with those closest to her •Doesn’t reach for objects

The Seventh Month: •Sits without support, may lean forward on both hands •Bears full weight on feet •Bounces when held in standing position •Bears weight on one hand when lying on stomach •Transfers objects from one hand to another •Bangs objects on surfaces •Able to fixate on small objects •Responds to name •Awareness of depth and space begin •Has taste preferences •“Talks” when others are talking

•Comprehends the word “no” •Increased interest in pleasing parents •Puts arms in front of face to avoid having it washed

The Tenth Month: •Goes from stomach to sitting position •Sits by falling down •Recovers balance easily while sitting •Lifts one foot to take a step while standing •Comprehends “bye-bye” •Says “dada” or “mama” with meaning •Says one other word beside “mama” and “dada” (hi, bye, no, go) •Waves bye-bye •Object permanence begins to develop •Repeats actions that attract attention •Plays interactive games such a “pat-a-cake” •Enjoys being read to and follows pictures in books

The Eleventh Month: •Walks holding on to furniture or other objects •Places one object after another into a container •Reaches back to pick up an object when sitting •Explores objects more thoroughly •Able to manipulate objects out of tight fitting spaces •Rolls a ball when asked •Becomes excited when a task is mastered •Acts frustrated when restricted •Shakes head for “no”

Red flags:

The Twelfth Month:

•Seems very stiff or floppy •Can’t hold her head steady •Can’t sit on her own •Doesn’t respond to noises or smiles •Isn’t affectionate with those closest to her •Doesn’t reach for objects

•Walks with one hand held •May stand alone and attempt first steps alone •Sits down from standing position without help •Attempts to build two block tower but may fail •Turns pages in a book •Follows rapidly moving objects •Says three or more words other than “mama” or “dada” •Comprehends the meaning of several words •Repeats the same words over & over again •Imitates sounds, such as the sounds dogs and cats make •Recognizes objects by name •Understands simple verbal commands •Shows affection •Shows independence in familiar surroundings •Clings to parents in strange situation •Searches for object where it was last seen

The Eight Month: •Sits well without support •Bears weight on legs and may stand holding on to furniture •Adjusts posture to reach an object •Picks up objects using index, fourth, and fifth finger against thumb •Able to release objects •Pulls string to obtain object •Reaches for toys that are out of reach •Listens selectively to familiar words •Begins combining syllables like “mama” and “dada” but does not attach a meaning •Understands the word no (but does not always obey it)!

•Dislikes having diaper changed and being dressed

The Ninth Month: •Begins crawling •Pulls up to standing position from sitting •Sits for a prolonged time (10minutes) •May develop a preference for use of one hand •Uses thumb and index finger to pick up objects •Responds to simple verbal commands

Red flags: •Doesn’t crawl •Seems to drag one side while he’s crawling for a month or more •Can’t stand with support •Doesn’t try to find objects you’ve hidden in front of him •Doesn’t say any words •Doesn’t use gestures, such as shaking his head “no” and pointing

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1 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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2 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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4 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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6 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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9 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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12 Month

Checkup

You can expect your baby’s doctor to:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure she’s growing at a healthy rate.

Do a complete physical.

Probably give your baby a hepatitis B shot.

Recommend vitamin D drops for breastfed babies.

Address any other concerns.

How is your baby sleeping? What position does she sleep in?______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How often is your baby eating?________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your baby’s bowel movements like?____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she quiet down, at least briefly, at the sound of your voice?___________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is your baby awake for longer periods of time?___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does she make soft cooing noises when content and alert?________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby’s eyes or the way she looks at things?_____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is she a little fussier at the end of the day?_______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Are you giving your baby tummy time when she’s awake?__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Does your baby hold her head up when she’s placed on her tummy?________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ How are you doing?__________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notes:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Baby’s First Your baby is turning 1 and that’s worth celebrating! Of course, you want to have a first birthday party in honor of his special day. But how do you plan for such an important occasion?

How do you make sure that your baby’s first birthday is a wonderful time for both you and him? These top twelve do’s and don’ts will point you in the right direction.

DO keep the birthday party simple. Your baby won’t really comprehend what all the fuss is about. This day is for you to enjoy and to celebrate the amazing child that has transformed your life. Just don’t overcomplicate anything this allows you to be free to relish every moment.

DON’T struggle over finding the perfect theme for the party. Your 1 year old won’t notice. Next year, he/she may be begging you for Cinderella, Elsa, Wonder Pets, Dora the Explorer, Thomas the Train theme, but this year you can do whatever makes sense for you.

DO make the party short. An hour or so is enough excitement for a 1 year old. Any longer than 2 hours and he/she might go into celebration overload.

DO schedule the birthday party for a time when your baby is less likely to be tired and cranky. If he/ she usually takes an early afternoon nap, then a late afternoon party is best.

Birthday and other friends and loved ones will be thrilled with a keepsake featuring a picture or pictures of the birthday boy or girl.

DON’T forget to charge the camera batteries or take tons of photos. You may be busy and preoccupied with the celebration, but your 1 year old won’t remember the party, so you’ll want to make sure you document every moment – assign someone this task. A nice tip is to send out photo thank you notes after the party.

DO create a first birthday memory book after the party.

This is a great future gift you can give to your child. Take photos of the cake, decorations, guests, and of course, him/ her. You can put these photos in a photo album or make a scrapbook, complete with journaling your thoughts about his special day. Include a page where each guest writes something special to your 1 year old.

Simplify, relax and enjoy this special day. Your baby’s first birthday party is a milestone that comes along only once in his/her life, so cherish every wonderful moment.

DON’T invite too many people. A room full of strangers crowding around your little one can be overwhelming.

Choose close friends and relatives to share this special day.

DO have the party at home, if possible. This is the place your baby feels most secure. There will be a lot of activity that day that he/she doesn’t quite understand. So, it’s important for him/her to feel comfortable and safe in the midst of all the strange birthday festivities.

DO keep your eyes open for potential dangers. If a balloon pops, make sure you put it in the trash immediately, because it could become a choking hazard.

DON’T serve food that is challenging to eat. Finger foods are best for little ones. And adults like them too!

DO have a birthday cake or cupcakes. It is fun for everyone to watch your 1 year old eat his first birthday cake, and a great photo opportunity. Just watch out for your baby and the lit candle.

DO consider invitations and favors that are personalized with your child’s photo. Most of your guests for this birthday party will be adults who have loved and supported you and your baby through the first year. Grandmothers, aunts,

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PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

PHOTO BY STEFFI R. PHOTOGRAPHY

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The End Of Infancy

Tracking Your Toddler & Child

PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

Your child is 18 months old, it’s the end of infancy. In their second year, your child walks independently, drinks from a cup, uses 15 words, and can identify body parts.

At 2 years, your child runs and jumps, is confident on his feet, kicks a ball, speaks in two-word sentences, continually increases their vocabulary, begins to understand the rules of grammar and syntax, follows simple instructions, and begins to play make-believe.

At 3 years, your child climbs, speaks in multiword sentences, and sorts objects by color and shape.

At 4 years, your child can converse in adult-like sentences, gets along with people outside the immediate family, draws circles and squares, and can ride a bike/trike.

At 5 years, your child can tell their name and address, has a grasp of the rules of grammar and meaning, hops, skips, and jumps, gets dressed on their own, and counts a large number of objects.

As a parent, your role is to ask questions and answer his, talk about books you read together, teach letters and numbers, put feelings in to words.

As your child speaks, make sure you rephrase if they use words incorrectly, teach your child body parts and familiar

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objects, foster his verbal needs by prompting him to ask for an item he wishes to use.

Encourage him to feed himself with utensils and drink from a cup, play pretend, ask your child to sort and clean up after play. Get outside and explore, take walks, have conversations.

Reinforce good behavior with attention and praise. Set rules and limits – follow through with consequences – be consistent. Give your child options, allow him to make choices. Be patient and positive.

Each child will develop a their own pace – watch for these Red Flags: Not walking by 18 months Doesn’t understand the use of familiar, everyday objects Doesn’t have at least 6 words by 18 months Isn’t speaking in 2-word sentences by 24 months Doesn’t imitate words and actions Doesn’t follow simple instructions Seems to lose skills he previously had.

PHOTO BY SHANNON LADO

Oh BABY! | 113

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114 | Oh BABY!

Oh BABY! | 115

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