My Baby Book - DM 2016

My

Baby!

From Baby Bump to Baby’s First Birthday The

Everything Planner

A publication of the Ames Tribune.

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My 4

Baby!

46

Getting Ready for Pregnancy

Baby Rooms on a Budget

Finding an Obstetrician

6

Prenatal Massage

11

Eating for Two: Good Nutrition for Mom and Baby

Choosing a Pediatrician

14

Common Questions to Ask Pediatricians

16

Pediatrician Interviews

18

Essentials of Baby Shower Etiquette

Prenatal and Infant Care Chiropractic Your Pregnancy - Month by Month Identifying Warning Signs of Pregnancy Danger

19

Risk Factors in Pregnancy

21

Pregnancy Milestones

22

48

50 51

52 54

57

Guest List and Gifts

59

Safe Sleep

60

Infant Reflux

61

Ultrasound - An Essential Part of Prenatal Care

Safefty and Baby-Proofing Your Home

23

Planning Baby’s Birth

30

The Plan

32

Hospital Bag Checklist

Pregnancy Visits Showing Off That Bump!

Exercising During Pregnancy

34

Yoga for Pregnancy

36

Budgeting for Baby

38

Finding the Perfect Name

62 64

65

85

Baby’s Early Education

86

Baby’s First Tooth

88

Baby’s Tooth Chart

91

Right On Schedule

92

Vaccine Tracker

93

Baby Milestones

94

Checkup Worksheet

100

Tracking Your Baby Developmental Milestones

104

68 70

Read Aloud Every Day

71

What Do My Parents Think Today?

What to Expect At The Hospital Labor Memories

Hand and Footprints

43

Your Baby’s Vision

44

Introducing the Fur-Babies

Baby Nursery Design in 12 Easy Steps

82

It’s Good For You Making Your Own Baby Food

Guest List and Ideas

40

Choosing the Right Child Care

81

Getting Your Body Back

66

How Will I Know When I am in Labor?

Your Baby’s Birth Story

Name Games

79

Dressing Your Little One

Baby’s First Birthday

39

Popular Baby Names for 2016

76

The Pictures to Take

72

73

106 107

108

Cover photo by Sweet Little You

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Getting Ready for 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 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:

Eat Healthy 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. It

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Pregnancy

you are considering pregnancy there is no better time to kick the habit!

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

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

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 towards 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 it’s 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 to 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 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!

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.

Obstetrician 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 board-certified 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 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).

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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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.

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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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On prenatal visits, blood tests are also conducted 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.

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?

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?

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Eating for Two: Good Nutrition for

Mom and Baby

If you’re pregnant, congrats, you’ve never had a better reason to eat healthy. The food you eat now provides the foundation for your baby’s growth and development. Good nutrition is your gift to your unborn child. Your diet needs to be balanced and nutritious. During pregnancy, organs are forming, circulation, digestion, urinary and other systems are developing, cells are dividing, your baby’s senses of hearing, sight, taste, and smell are beginning to form. Studies show that a healthy diet during pregnancy yields a healthy baby.

It’s the quality of the food you eat that impacts how your baby weighs in at birth.

Eating for two doesn’t mean eating twice as much…

Most women need about 300 to 450 extra calories each day in the second and third trimesters – and no extra calories in the first. If you’re under or overweight, you may need more or less; your doctor will be able to advise you.

First things first: You must take a pre-natal supplement every day. This supplement provides the vitamins and minerals you need (folic acid, iron, zinc, iodine, vitamin D, cal-

cium, and vitamin A). If you’re the type of person who likes to keep close track of your diet, you might find the USDA’s Health & Nutrition information for Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women webpage helpful (www.choosemyplate.gov/momspregnancy-breastfeeding ).

One of the best ways to ensure that you eat well during pregnancy is to stock up on snack foods that pack plenty of nutrition…when a craving strikes, you’ll respond with healthful foods – walnuts, whole grain crackers, a slice of cheese – all good, crunchy, healthy fats, and packed with protein.

Make sure you avoid foods that contain pesticides as these cross the placenta. You can achieve this goal by choosing organic. Look for the USDA Certified Organic label on foods. This label assures that the food was grown without the use of pesticides.

It is recommended that you have 6 to 8 ounces of breads and grains; 2 ½ to 3 cups of vegetables per day; 1 ½ to 2 cups of fruits per day; 3 cups of milk/dairy per day; 5 to 6 ½ ounces of protein per day. You want to be sure your diet has foods that are rich in iron, calcium, iodine, vitamin C, folic

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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acid, and vitamin A. The development of most organs is pretty complete midway through pregnancy…BUT, the baby’s brain will have huge growth during the last trimester. Now’s the time for protein, calories, and omega-3 fatty acids – critical for brain development.

No doubt you’ll have a bout or two with nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy. It will be difficult to eat healthy when the last thing you want to do is put anything in your mouth! Make sure you’re taking your prenatal vitamins.

Foods To Eat When Pregnant and What They Do For You And The Baby Protein – promotes cell growth and blood production – found in lean meat, fish, poultry, egg whites, beans,peanut butter, and tofu Carbohydrates – good for daily energy – found in breads, cereals, rice, potatoes, pasta, fruits, and vegetables Calcium – strong bones and teeth, muscle contraction, nerve function – found in milk, cheese, yogurt, sardines, salmon, spinach Iron – red blood cell production – found in lean red meat, spinach, whole grain breads and cereals Vitamin A – healthy skin, good eyesight, growing bones – found in carrots, dark leafy green vegetables, sweet potatoes

Vitamin C – healthy gums, teeth, bones, and assists in iron absorption – found in citrus fruit, broccoli, tomatoes, fruit juices Vitamin B6 – red blood cell formation – found in pork, ham, bananas, and whole-grain cereals Vitamin B12 – red blood cell formation, maintaining nervous system health – found in meat, fish, poultry, milk Vitamin D – healthy bones and teeth, aids in absorption of calcium – found in milk, dairy products, cereals, and breads Folic Acid – blood and protein production, effective enzyme function – found in green leafy vegetables, dark yellow fruits and vegetables, beans, peas, and nuts Fat – body energy stores – meat, whole-milk dairy, nuts, peanut butter, vegetable oils

FOODS TO AVOID WHEN PREGNANT Alcohol Caffeine Saccharine Cholesterol (limit) Soft Cheeses Raw or undercooked Fish Fat (less) Fish with high levels of Mercury Sushi Hotdogs Raw Sprouts Refrigerated Pate and Meat Spreads Unpasteurized juices and milk

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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 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.

Problems with the head and spine can impact the infant in the following ways: • A misalignment of the spine during birth can cause respiratory problems which could cause further serious complications for the newborn.

• Inability or difficulty with latching onto the mother’s breast and difficulty with the suckling reflex.

• Difficulty sleeping.

• Constant crying.

• Chronic colic and digestive problems.

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Chiropractic

Chiropractic care can safely help the infant by making adjustments to the head and spine. The pressure for these adjustments is a ‘light pressure’, like the amount of pressure you would use to comfortably press on your eyelid without causing pain.

In the first year of life, the baby’s spine increases in length by 50%. This is the time also when the spine starts to get its distinctive ‘S’ shape. These spinal curves are important and necessary for movement, balance, upright posture, protection, and shock absorption. The head and spine also house the central nervous system – important in the growth and development of the infant. The nervous system has a direct impact on the immune system. Getting regular chiropractic care aids in the healthy growth and development of the infant and promotes a healthy immune response.

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Your Pregnancy

Month by Month

One Month

Six Months

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

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

Two Months

Seven Months

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

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.

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

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

Five Months

Eight Months 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.

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

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

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Indentifying 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.

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.

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: • 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 Some women with high-risk pregnancy symptoms may

Pregnancy

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 OBGYN 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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An essential part of Prenatal Care

Ultrasound: 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

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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 weeks 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 pregnancy (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.

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:________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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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Showing off that Pregnancy may rob you of your slim figure, but the pounds you gain give you beauty of a different kind. Wellpicked clothes enhance that beauty even more. If you already have a baby bump, it’s time to go shopping for clothes that promise both comfort and style.

There will come a time when style loses its priority so you want to make sure that no matter how large you get, you won’t need to contend with ill-fitting clothes.

Hot Trends in Maternity for 2016: Denim: jeans, dresses, and skirts Faux Leather: jeans, skirts, tops Tweed: outerwear and jackets Scarves: drapey, colorful, chic, camouflage The Shirt Dress: a tee-shirt dress is essential and comfortable and pairs with flats, boots, chunky heels Prints: small, abstract, floral – totally on trend Jewels/Baubles: a pin, necklace, earrings – add an element of current style

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Bump!

Jumpsuits: comfortable loose fit and coverage no matter the season

Retro Style: accent with finds from the local vintage shop Belts: decorative, functional, stylish – they create an empire waist Trench Coats: they look good whether you’re pregnant or not, they ‘class up’ your pregnancy style.

Maternity Jeans Designed for the modern mom, maternity jeans are stylish, affordable and comfortable. The waist has a large elastic band to accommodate a baby bump, while the hips and the thighs are expanded as well to do the same for those ‘growing’ areas.

We know how difficult it can be giving up your favorite jeans, so make maternity ones a wardrobe priority. Get yourself several pair in the fit you desire: straight leg, boot cut, flair, skinny, or boyfriend. It’s your look – go for your style.

We’re told a dark wash works best, but I’ve seen plenty of cute women in white, or colors…

Maternity Tops

There are numerous styles of maternity tops from form-fit-

ting halters to figure enhancing turtlenecks and T-shirts, and the more traditional empire waist blouses. All are designed to stretch over the belly or cover it with extra fabric. Under maternity tops, there are also nursing tops with discreet breast openings. The overall design is ingenious and very trendy so you still look your best come feeding time.

Make sure you remember basic style proportion – if it’s big on top, pair it with narrow on the bottom; if it’s narrow on top, pair it with volume on the bottom (skirt or wide-leg pants); dresses should be above the knee or maxi; boots or heels will lengthen your silhouette (balancing the tummy).

Maternity Tunics Tunics are usually flattering and they don’t disappoint for expecting moms. The length is perfect as is the shape (remember proportion). The neckline can be varied, which is an advantage as you can wear them for outings and at home. Team them up with skinny jeans or tights and simple flat sandals for a casual look. Patterns tend to slim the body and look dressier, so save them for a night out. Leave tunics with collars and sleeves for casual wear.

Maternity Lingerie This is usually left for the last - though it should head the list of maternity clothes. Your old underwear won’t fit you, so leave them for when you lose weight post-labor. For the next few months, purchase specially designed bras for pregnant women that offer full coverage. Cotton nursing bras are also important as they’re extremely comfortable.

For panties, you should look for bikini styles as they sit low and stretch comfortably over the hips and thighs. You can get maternity thongs too. They’re much softer than ordinary ones and are very stretchable. If you prefer briefs, make sure they’re designed for maternity wear since they’re typically tight. Be comfortable – it’s your choice.

Don’t hide your curves or that belly!

SHOW. OFF. YOUR. BELLY. Got it? There are some women out there dying to be in your shoes. Stop complaining about it, and show it off. You are pregnant and beautiful. Show your shape by wearing wrap styles that enhance your curves and grow with your bump.

Wear Solid Colors or Neutrals A black tank, black leggings or black tank dress will extend your pregnancy wardrobe. These basics can be mixed and matched for any occasion (shopping, appointments, parties). They only need accessories to change the mood or occasion.

Dresses The empire waist is your friend. It gathers under the breast area and falls loosely to the hip, knee, or floor – covering your belly and your butt. Genius!

Buy those 5 easy pieces that take you through your pregnancy…a black pull on skirt, pants, top with sleeves, tank, and dress…the ease of knowing you’ll look pulled together when you often don’t feel like it– priceless!

Avoid baggy clothing that gives you a sloppy look. Wear sweats, shirts, and sweater only when you crave comfort and the privacy of your own home…Baggy clothing does nothing for you when you have a giant bump. You will most likely feel large and this only makes you feel (and look) larger. This is a time you should embrace your body, because you’re GORGEOUS and should feel amazing!

Accentuate your beautiful bump with belts.

Belts are your friend! Show off that bump. Use a belt to accentuate your bump by placing it right at the top of the bump. It gives you your “waist” back and really flatters your new and changing body shape. You can also do this with non-maternity dresses, tanks, blouses and tees!

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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 Ob-

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stetrics 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.

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.

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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 shoulder-width 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,

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Stay Calm

breathing in while 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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Budgeting for Baby…

Now and in the Future

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. 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 im-

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portant 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 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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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.

Name

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.

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!

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Popular Baby Names for

2016

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. Atticus

11. Levi

21. Austin

31. Oscar

2. Asher

12. Jasper

22. Eli

32. Elijah

3. Ezra

13. Leo

23. Beckett

33. Thomas

4. Silas

14. Kai

24. Felix

34. Ryker

5. Declan

15. Jack

25. Caleb

35. Owen

6. Wyatt

16. Finn

26. William

36. Julian

7. Oliver

17. Theodore

27. Ethan

37. James

8. Henry

18. Sebastian

28. Theo

38. Isaac

9. Milo

19. Miles

29. Benjamin

39. Josiah

10. Jude

20. Liam

30. Andrew

40. Sawyer

1. Charlotte

11. Evelyn

21. Khaleesi

31. Quinn

2. Amelia

12. Adeline

22. Scarlett

32. Caroline

3. Olivia

13. Hazel

23. Emma

33. Eloise

4. Isla

14. Imogen

24. Rose

34. Harlow

5. Ava

15. Aurora

25. Evangeline

35. Grace

6. Violet

16. Alice

26. Genevieve

36. Luna

7. Cora

17. Claire

27. Ivy

37. Esme

8. Eleanor

18. Adelaide

28. Lila

38. Matilda

9. Lucy

19. Elizabeth

29. Nora

39. Aria

10. Penelope

20. Arabella

30. Beatrice

40. Aurelia

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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 Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):______________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):______________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Relation (grandparent, aunt, etc.):______________________________________________________________________

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

Other names we like Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Meaning:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Meaning:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Meaning:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Meaning:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Meaning:____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Choosing the Right 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 staff-to-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 schoolage children).

Child Care

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?

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

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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.

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Step 4: Find baby nursery furniture to complement the 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 per-

fection. 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.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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

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Budget

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 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!

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.

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.

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Prenatal

Massage

Therapeutic massage has been used for centuries to improve overall health, reduce stress, and relieve muscle tension. Massage during pregnancy can offer the same benefits.

Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce stress, reduce anxiety, relieve muscle and joint pain, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health. Before getting a massage, check with your doctor to make sure he or she advocates a particular technique. You will find that most massage therapists avoid massage during the first trimester of pregnancy and will require that you get clearance from your doctor during this time.

A pregnancy massage typically lasts an hour and often requires the use of a pregnancy massage table (a table designed to accommodate a woman’s pregnant belly) or specially designed pillows or bolsters to accommodate the bel-

48 | My BABY!

ly or side-lying. Discuss with your therapist what feels most comfortable to you. Massage during pregnancy is not an indulgence, it can be an instrumental ingredient in a woman’s prenatal care.

It is important to seek care from a certified prenatal massage therapists. These therapists have received training beyond the national standards and know how to address specific pregnancy and massage needs. Further, they are aware of how to position you safely to prevent strain to the uterine ligaments and can watch for symptoms of blood clots and varicose veins.

Pregnancy massage experts adapt their techniques to address the changes in a woman’s body. Blood volume increases dramatically – as much as 50% during pregnancy, yet blood flow to the legs can often be slow or sluggish as

levels of anticoagulants in the blood naturally rise. These circulatory changes put pregnant women at risk of blood clots in the lower legs, so the massage therapist uses light, slow strokes and avoids deep massage and strong pressure on the legs – and all leg massage strokes should move toward the heart. Edema or swelling of the joints during pregnancy is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels by the heavy uterus. Massage helps to stimulate soft tissues to reduce the collection of fluids in swollen joints. Later in pregnancy, as the uterus rests on the muscles of the pelvic floor, a pregnant woman experiences sciatic nerve pain. Massage addresses the inflamed nerves by releasing tension on nearby muscles.

Swedish Massage is the recommended massage method during pregnancy because it addresses many common discomforts associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts.

Studies done in the past 10 years have shown that hormone

levels associated with relaxation and stress are significantly altered when massage therapy is introduced to a woman’s prenatal care. This leads to mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health.

If you have recently experienced bleeding, pre-term contractions, are a high risk pregnancy, have high blood pressure, pregnancy induced hypertension, preeclampsia, swelling, severe headaches, or have recently given birth should speak to their health care provider prior to receiving a massage.

The benefits of massage can improve overall prenatal health for many pregnant women. Along with the guidance and advice of a prenatal care provider, massage therapy can be incorporated into routine prenatal care as an emotional and physical health supplement shown to improve pregnancy outcome and maternal health. Consult with your midwife or obstetrician before beginning any new therapeutic practice.

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Choosing a 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

50 | My BABY!

Pediatrician 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 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?

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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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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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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

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– 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 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.

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.

Whatever you do – make it a memorable event!

Trends in Shower Themes • Nursery Rhymes • Travel • Monograms • Butterflies • Color Themes • Golden Book • Vintage • Baby Bling • Carnivals

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• Love you to the moon…

Gifts Though a gift is expected if a guest attends the shower, guests should only be invited to help celebrate the upcoming arrival (I’ve never seen a person come to a shower without a gift)…if you cannot attend, you are not obligated to give a gift (though you might want to give a gift).

Creating a registry at your favorite store or stores is a helpful way for guests to find the gifts that are needed. Registry information should be included with the invitation or provided when the guest sends their RSVP in the affirmative.

If you are relatively well-equipped in the baby department, the shower host might consider themes that benefit the mom and/or dad…a night of babysitting, coupons for takeout meals, spa days, date night dinners, movie tickets.

When in Doubt: Baby Must Haves, Essentials & Great Gifts!

• 4 to 8 undershirts, vests, onesies – snaps at the neck (wide opening) and snaps at the crotch • 4 to 8 one-piece pajamas • 1 to 3 rompers or other ‘dress-up’ outfits • 4 to 7 socks or booties (no need for shoes until that baby is walking) • 1 to 3 hats – broad-brimmed for summer or soft cap with ear covers for the winter • Crib, cradle, or bassinet

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• 2 to 4 fitted crib sheets • 4 to 6 light receiving blankets • A changing table or cushioned changing pad with safety strap • Diaper Creams • Baby Wipes • Soft Washcloths • 6 to 10 dozen cloth diapers, diaper covers, or 2 to 3 large boxes of disposable diapers • Baby Soap • Burp Cloths • 10 to 16 Bottles • Breast Pump • Baby Thermometer • Baby Nail Clippers and Scissors • Petroleum Jelly and Sterile Gauze • Infant Car Seat

Thank You Note Etiquette Traditional etiquette says that if you thanked someone for a gift in person, there is no need to send a handwritten note. This is true – but shower gifts have always been and continue to be an exception.

Be sure to send a prompt handwritten thank you note to each guest who gave you a gift.

And a final grace note for parents: After your newborn arrives, be sure to share the news personally with anyone who attended a baby shower for you.

Guest

List

1.______________________________________________

7.______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

2.______________________________________________

8.______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

3.______________________________________________

9.______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

4.______________________________________________

10._____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

5.______________________________________________

11._____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

6.______________________________________________

12._____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

Gifts _______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

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Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Safe Sleep For Your WHO IS AT RISK FOR SIDS?

Baby

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.

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.

WHAT CAN I DO BEFORE MY BABY IS BORN TO REDUCE THE RISK OF SIDS?

IS IT EVER SAFE TO HAVE BABIES ON THEIR TUMMIES?

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.

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

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 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

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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

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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.

Safety and Baby-Proofing

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 well-baby 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 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.

Your Home

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.

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/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) – 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.

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.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Planning Baby’s From the first positive pregnancy test, many moms-tobe 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 setting policies. You may want to chow down 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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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.

If your baby is being bashful, your caregiver may wish to 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.

Post Birth. “After a vaginal delivery, your delivery facili-

C-section. In what circumstances would you want a Ce-

ty may practice placing baby immediately on your chest, known as skin-to-skin. This promotes bonding and successful breast feeding.” For a C-section, indicate who should bond with your baby while you recover.

sarean 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.

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

Crowning. Some non squeamish mothers request to have 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.

Nursing. It is recommended to start breastfeeding right away; you can also ask the hospital staff not to offer baby a bottle or pacifier, which could interfere with nursing.

Additional info. Mention factors that may affect your 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!

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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The

Plan

___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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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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How will I know when I’m in

Labor?

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 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: • 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.

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• 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 bloodtinged 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 con-

firm 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.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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.

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 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

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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.

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.

Move - I am well aware that sometimes in labor all you want to do is lie down, but that position isn’t always the 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.

Utilize the water - Ever take a bath to relax? Humans have 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, 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!

Some things to have on hand after the baby is born – specifically for the new mom • 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).

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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

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Left Hand

Right Hand

Left Foot

Right Foot

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 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

Vision

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 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. In these cases, always call a professional to schedule an examination.

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Introducing the Meeting the Family Pooch For years, your baby (animal) has been the one and only 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 is to prepare the old baby (the family pet) almost as soon as you become pregnant – yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks!

You should make sure the dog knows basic obedience commands, like sit, stay, down, and to come when called. If the dog does not know these commands, obedience school is in order. Make sure all the commands are associated with good things – treats work well. Once the dog has mastered these 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. Babies make strange sounds, so help the dog get accustomed to the noises by playing recordings. Ideally, if you know of someone with a

Fur-Babies

baby, have them bring the baby over so the dog can get used to having one around. This will naturally take more than one time.

Set up a ‘safe’ are 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, any room that will allow the pet to escape and relax. Have food, water, a crate, sleeping pads – anything that makes the pet feel secure.

While you are in the hospital, make sure the dog’s routine is kept as normal as possible. To avoid stress, keep the dog’s same feeding and walking schedule.

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 as much as it wants.

Upon returning home, greet the dog without the baby.

Let the dog get used to the sounds and smells associated with the baby, and after the dog has calmed down and the baby is quiet, make the introductions. Have someone be there to control the dog and someone else to hold the baby.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Put the dog on a leash in the sit/stay position, if necessary.

Gradually bring the dog and baby closer together. Repeat this introduction several times, each time bringing the dog and baby closer together until you feel comfortable enough to let the dog get close enough to sniff the baby.

Allow the dog the freedom of the house as before while you are with the baby. Use a screen door or gate to prevent the dog from entering the baby’s room without you. 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. If you can’t handle them both, have someone go with you.

There are no set guidelines as to when a dog will get used to a baby. Everything depends on the dog’s history of aggressive behavior. It could take a couple of days or it could take weeks. If, after several weeks, there has been no sign of aggressive behavior, it is unlikely that anything will happen. 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, causing it to bite the baby, or the dog could sit on the baby and suffocate it.

Most dogs will adjust to a new baby without incident.

Observe the dog’s behavior for any signs of aggression and take precautions. That way, you can avoid problems and accidents.

Mixing Babies and Cats Relax. Your cat may be a bit skittish around the new baby at first, but in time, it will grow accustomed to the new baby and learn to dodge them when they start crawling and

walking. Your cat will not suck the baby’s breath because it smells like milk, as the old wives’ tale suggests. In fact, it will probably leave the new baby alone unless provoked. If the new baby is lying on the floor and accidentally grabs your cat’s tail as it passes by, for example, your cat may hiss, nip or scratch them. While hisses won’t hurt your baby, a nip or scratch could. If the cat is infected, your baby could develop Cat Scratch Disease or CSD. The bacterium Bartonella henselae is thought to be the culprit behind CSD. Kittens younger than six months of age usually carry B. henselae, although some older cats can carry it, too. Fleas transmit the bacteria from cat to cat. Once a cat is infected, the bacteria can live in their saliva for months.

Unfortunately, there is no test to determine if a cat is carrying B. henselae. Most cats with it appear to be healthy.

Individuals who contract CSD break out in blisters or bumps near the site of the bite or scratch seven to 12 days after the incident occurred and develop tender, swollen lymph nodes and sometimes a fever two to four weeks later. They may also experience headache, fatigue, rash, sore throat and loss of appetite. In rare cases, some individuals have experienced infections of the liver, spleen, bones, eyes or lungs, while others have developed inflammation of the brain or seizures.

Even with the best of precautions, your cat may have a run-in with the new baby, especially when they start crawling. If a cut or scratch should occur, wash it with soap and water promptly and be on the lookout for signs of CSD. If you suspect your baby might have contracted CSD, consult your physician.

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and how…)

The Pictures to Take (

and The Pictures That Need a Professional A new baby is an exciting event both happily and proudly shared by the proud new parents! When my niece had her baby…it was like a Facebook takeover! Multiple times a day she shared her absolute joy with the world…The fact is, there are milestones you catch at home and those that should be taken by a professional photographer.

Photos You Take At Home At 1 to 2 months you should be taking home photos of those first baby smiles, also set the schedule for taking that monthly ‘official’ photo At 3 to 4 months you should be taking photos of your infant pushing up on tummy, the first coos and sounds (record), reaching and grabbing for toys, and finding their hands

At 5 to 6 months you should be taking home photos of your baby finding their feet, eating their feet, starting to learn how to sit, and beginning to take on solid foods At 7 to 8 months you should be taking home photos of your baby crawling and sitting well At 9 to 10 months you should be taking home photos of your baby learning to babble (record), pulling their self up, holding on to tables and chairs, walking along furniture At 11 to 12 months you should be taking photos of your child walking, saying their first words (record), their first birthday (cake and family), and everything else that goes with the party

The rest of their life!

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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8 Tips For Taking Good Home Photos

When to Call in the Professional

1. Make sure the camera is ready and charged 2. Have a background that highlights your child (a sheet or cloth for those ‘official’ photos) 3. Natural daylight is best, avoid shadows, no bright lights, if outside take photos early in the day or just before dusk 4. Frame the photo in advance 5. Like the clothing your baby is wearing, like the colors that enhance your baby’s coloring, envision what you’re trying to capture 6. Point and click – the more photos you take, the better chance of taking a ‘keeper’ photo that will stand the test of time 7. Get close to your subject and then get closer – keep snapping photos 8. Take interesting photos of hands, feet, tummies

Once you’ve made the decision to invest in a photographer, the first thing you should do is find one whose work you absolutely love. One whose images move you and leave a lasting impression. Someone who specializes in maternity, infant, and family photography understands that pregnancy is a fragile time and can capture the magic of pregnancy and birth, who can photograph the sweetness and wonder of newborns and baby’s first year, and incorporate the father and siblings in a loving and creative fashion. While you’ll be snapping away with your phone and camera, leave the following moments to a professional.

Moments for The Professional Photographer

1.

2.

3.

4.

A maternity session A newborn session A baby session A birthday session

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Dressing your

Little One

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.

Looking Cute

Making Baby Comfy

• 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.

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.

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

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 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.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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

For most women, the joys of motherhood far outweigh the toll that pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding take on our bodies. The physical effects of childbearing and nursing can profoundly change a woman’s body in ways that diet and exercise cannot always reverse. Many new moms complain about stretch marks, excess skin, stubborn fat in certain trouble spots, and sagging breasts.

New moms should be encouraged to make/take the time to exercise and maintain a balanced diet. It’s good for you and it’s good for the baby. Most mom’s ‘want their body back’ the way it looked before they had children. Getting healthy is a part of that process. But it’s not always easy.

In addition to diet and exercise, women are turning to surgery to complete the picture – to aid the process of getting back in shape. It’s important to know what changes have occurred in your body – which ones they can affect by their own efforts and which ones can benefit from plastic surgery.

Ideally a surgeon would like a patient to be within twenty pounds of their goal weight before surgery and they also want you to wait three to six months after you stop nursing before considering any kind of breast surgery.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is the most popular surgery post-baby, followed by breast augmentation, liposuction, and breast lift. When you are in your consultation with a plastic surgeon, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A few important questions would be: Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? How many surgeries of that procedure do you do in a year? How frequently do you perform the procedure I am interested in?

There are many options available to you both surgical and non-surgical. Some of the non-surgical choices include fat reduction solutions like CoolSculpting and skin tightening with Exilis. Laser treatments to remove brown spots, fine lines, facial veins, and uneven skin tone and texture.

CoolSculpting is the only non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and eliminates fat. This procedure treats virtually any area of the body where you can pinch fat. There is no downtime and no needles are involved. You may have experienced loose skin after giving birth as well.

To tighten your skin, a plastic surgeon can offer Exilis, treating around your eyes, stomach, arms, legs, and bottom. Know that loose post-partum abdominal skin is a normal part of pregnancy for a lot of women.

It is common for women to experience melasma, brown

Back

spots or even acne during pregnancy. To nourish your skin back to health again, a plastic surgeon can offer customized facials and laser treatments to treat your skin concerns. They can also offer injections to treat facial lines and wrinkles and restore youthful volume in the face, specifically the cheeks, laugh lines, and lips.

TIPS: • How to find a qualified plastic surgeon? Board Certification: You should choose a board certified plastic surgeon.

• Experience in the Procedure You Want: Be sure the plastic surgeon has plenty of experience in the specific procedure you plan to have. How many does he/she perform in a year? How long does it take him/her to perform the procedure?

• Safety and the Operating Facility: The facility where the surgery will be performed should be accredited and receive an operating facility certification.

• Customer Service: Were your questions answered and adequate information provided to you? Were all fees presented up front? Be sure the staff is friendly and helpful when you call for a consult.

• Emotional Connection: Be comfortable with your surgeon and his/her staff. How long have they worked with the plastic surgeon and what are the qualifications/certifications of the staff? You should feel comfortable at your consultation.

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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 proces-

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sor 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 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 experience for them.

Apple Puree

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

After 10 -15 min utes, check the consistency - you want them soft so they puree easily. Plac e in blender, blen d and cool.

Serve to baby.

Try this recipe with peaches or pears!

Sweet Potato Puree

4oz of Sweet Potato 1 Cup of Water

Pea Puree

bring tato and in a pot, po t ee sw ce Di

il; es and water to a bo ec pi to ta po t ee sw the s your minutes or until it ha 12 t ou ab r fo ok co der, - transfer to a blen cy en ist ns co ed sir de e to baby. blend, let cool, serv carrots, e same thing with th do n ca u Yo

inutes, cook them for 20 m d an em th el pe t bu d serve to baby. then blend, cool, an

n White Bea

rained) sed and d

(rin

of water

Beans

ns e the bea ls u p r o s s roce tena food p te, consis u in m Using a t bou too ater for a d water if d a r, and the w e tt u tb like peanu cy will be

oon 1 tablesp

thick.

(organic frozen has the least amount of salt)

2 Tablespoons of W ater

Steam frozen pe as for 3 minutes; plac e the peas and 2 tablespo ons of water in a bl en der.

PUree for 2 minutes - or until the textur e is smooth and cream y (you can add mor e water to get the desir ed consistency). Co ol and serve to baby.

Puree

annellinin n (15oz) C

1 Ca

3 Cups of Peas

Chicken

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

oil, add p another 6 astina, co to 7 minu ok for te s ( w atch that cooked). pastina is Serve warm .

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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” 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-to-day 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

Education

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-ABoo, 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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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 – 14 months.

Second molars – 20 – 24 months.

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 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

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Baby’s Tooth

B A

Chart

A

B

C D

C

UPPER

D

E

E

E D

LOWER C

A. Central Incisor 88 | My BABY!

B A

B. Lateral Incisor

A

B

C. Cuspid

E D

C

D. First Molar

E. Second Molar

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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 that 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 tooth brush; 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.

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Good habits begin early… so do healthy smiles…

Right on

Schedule

From the moment a child is born, they are developing their cognitive skills. Scientists have discovered that a child’s brain can acquire a tremendous amount of information about language in their first year of life, even before they learn to talk. By the time a baby learns to talk, they know the sounds of their language and the sounds combined to create words. A child’s development early in life is strongly tied to their success later in life. There are guidelines available that help parents know if their child is on the right track, but it is important to realize that every child will develop at their own pace. Let’s take a look at some of the guidelines from age 1 to age 3.

Most children by their first birthday should be able to: • Crawl, maybe even walk • Wave goodbye and play patty cake • Sit up on their own and pull themselves into a standing position • Recognize their name • Understand the word “no” and simple instructions • Show interest in other children • Imitate familiar words • Discriminate between many sounds • Give a toy on request • Show affection • Identify and react to others’ emotions • Feed themselves small pieces of food • Put a cube in a cup when told

As a parent, you can stimulate your 1 year old’s speech and language skills by: • Reading colorful books to them • Reciting nursery rhymes to them • Playing games like peek-a-boo with them • Taking to them using short words • Imitating their movements and vocalizations • Encouraging and rewarding them for any efforts using new words • Talking to them about what you are doing while they are with you

Most children by their second birthday should be able to: • Identify body parts • Understand simple questions and commands • Name pictures • Refer to themselves by name • Build a tower using eight blocks • Carry on a conversation with their dolls or themselves • Ask “What’s this?” “What’s that?” and “Where’s mine?”

• Use two-word negative phrases • Ask for a drink, food or to go to the toilet • Stay with one activity for six to seven minutes • Use a sentence of two to three words

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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.

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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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:______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

98 | My BABY!

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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Tracking Your Baby…

Developmental Milestones The First Month:

*Shows awareness to strange situations

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

*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

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Red flags

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

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*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

Red flags:

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 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)

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*May develop a preference for use of one hand *Uses thumb and index finger to pick up objects *Responds to simple verbal commands *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”

The Twelfth Month:

*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

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

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Baby’s First

Birthday

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.

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 keep the birthday party simple. Your baby won’t really

ment for a 1 year old. Any longer than 2 hours and he/she might go into celebration overload.

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

DO make the party short. An hour or so is enough excite-

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.

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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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, 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

Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Read Aloud 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.

Every Day!

es • 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) Let your child turn the pages – Babies and toddlers • Books that tell stories

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.

• 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

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.

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

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 pag-

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What Do My Parents Think Today?

Say it in a sentence...

Say it in a word...

Year 1:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 2:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 3:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 4:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 5:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 6:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 7:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 8:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 9:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 10:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 11:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 12:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 13:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 14:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 15:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 16:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 17:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Year 18:____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Photo by: Sweet Little You

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Photo by: Sweet Little You

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