Toddling Times

For Every Stage of a Woman’s Life The physicians and providers of Mercy Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic have many years experience in delivering quality and compassionate care to women of all ages.

Each is board-certified, which means they are leaders in their field of medicine.

Whether you’re seeking care before a pregnancy or while in the golden years of your life, the physicians and providers of Mercy Obstetrics and Gynecology are here for you.

F more information or to For schedule an appointment with Mercy Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic call:

641-428-5100 or 1-877-422-5100

M. Faust, M.D. MS-25664

C. Debrah, M.D.

M. LeDuc, D.O.

T. Tan, D.O.

R. Velez, M.D.

N. Beavers, ARNP

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 3

Nutrition Tips for the Expectant Mother When you’re expecting, everything you consume is also consumed by your baby. With that in mind, there’s no better time to give yourself a nutrition makeover. Simply adding some of these foods to your daily diet will provide both of you with the nutrition you need.

Ground flaxseed can be sprinkled on cereal or add to baked goods for a jolt of omega-3s.

Wheat Germ - Add a fiber-filled spoonful to a smoothie.

Quinoa and wild rice - these tasty whole grains can be used in place of white or brown rice.

Whole-grain crackers or bread make a great snack, especially when topped with peanut butter or nonfat cream cheese.

Whole-wheat flour - Substitute half a recipe's white flour with this healthier variety.

Whole beans are an easy way to add fiber to soups, salads, and sauces.

Whole-grain cereals are a great source of fiber. Add some fruit for added nutrients.

Multigrain pasta is more nutritious and tastier than you might think.

Nuts - A handful of almonds are packed with pregnancy-friendly nutrients like folic acid and calcium; walnuts are a great source of omega-3s.

Peanut or almond butter spread on apple slices for a high-protein midmorning boost.

Canned fruit spooned over frozen yogurt makes a delicious treat, or simply eat as is just try to stick to the low-sugar variety.

Dried fruit - Raisins and apricots are bursting with fiber. Skip dried bananas and pineapple, which are usually loaded with added sugar.

"Light" chips - Switching to baked potato chips is an easy way to improve on an otherwise high-fat snack.

Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin A which is important for your baby's development.

Olive oil is better for your heart than most other oils. The spray versions help you not overdo it Low-fat Pudding is a delicious way to add calcium to your diet.

Fat-free dairy is full of calcium, protein and vitamin D but not saturated fat. You’ll find these benefits in cottage cheese, string

cheese, cream cheese, yogurt, and milk, fortified with vitamin D. Fruit - Sweet, mild fruit such as bananas and melon are less acidic than pineapples and kiwis, which can be too harsh for a pregnant woman's sensitive system. Make sure you have a variety on hand so you never get bored.

Fruit juice - Opt for 100 percent cranberry, orange, or grapefruit. Look for calciumfortified varieties.

DHA-fortified eggs are a good source of omega-3s.

Hard-boil or scrambled, they’re also very versatile.

Veggies such as baby carrots, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli bits are great defense against hunger attacks. They'll also increase fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium in your diet. Greens such as spinach or mixed lettuce provide extra iron as well as vitamins A and C. Flash-frozen varieties are often just as nutritious as fresh produce.

Extra-lean ground beef and roasted chicken are both very versitile and great ways to give yourself an extra boost of iron and protein.

Frozen yogurt can be used to make delicious chocolate sundae — don't forget the nuts.

Frozen fruit is great for making a quick smoothie.

4 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

NEW BABY CHECKLIST Whether you're registering for a baby shower or anxious to start shopping for your bundle of joy, here are some important things to have on your list. ❐ Diapers: Re-usable or disposable, you'll need plenty on hand. ❐ Disposable wipes. Always have a few packets on hand -- this is not an item you want to run out of.

❐ Breastfeeding pillow ❐ Nursing pads ❐ Lanolin lotion for sore nipples ❐ Breast milk freezer bags

❐ Diaper rash cream

❐ Thermometer

❐ Diaper bag

❐ Nasal bulb syringe for clearing stuffy noses

❐ Baby monitor ❐ Pacifiers, if you want to use them. ❐ Bottles, including nipples: Make sure you buy nipples for newborns.

❐ Baby nail clipper ❐ Infant bath tub ❐ Baby shampoo and cleanser

❐ Bottle brush

❐ Baby lotion

❐ Breast pump: Go for the fancy automatic double pump if you plan on pumping after returning to work.

❐ 2 to 3 hooded towels ❐ 6 to 8 onesies, half short sleeve and half long sleeve. ❐ 5 pairs of pants

Need reliable child care?

Whether you’re a parent, child care provider, or employer, we have

services available to you!

Parents needing referrals, resources and information about child care, please call

❐ 6 to 8 sleepers and rompers if it's spring or summer

(800) 475-0804

❐ 1 to 3 sweater cardigans or zip hoodies, depending on the season

People interested in becoming registered child care providers, please call (641) 424-9559 or (866) 424-9559

❐ 5 to 6 sleeping gowns which cinch closed at the bottom, making latenight diaper changes a breeze.

❐ 8 pairs of booties or socks ❐ 4 to 6 hats, at least one sun hat ❐ 4 to 6 bibs. ❐ Crib ❐ 2 to 3 fitted crib sheets ❐ 2 waterproof mattress pads ❐ 4 to 6 receiving blankets. ❐ Changing table with pad ❐ 2 or 3 changing pad covers

MASON CITY AREA OFFICE OF

❐ A rear-facing infant car seat with base. If you have two cars, you'll want to consider getting a second base.

CHILD CARE RESOURCE & REFERRAL MS-25958

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 5

Childbirth education classes offered Countdown to Delivery and Beyond This class is designed to help you prepare for the birth of your baby. You will learn about recognizing signs of labor, breathing techniques, comfort measures, newborn care, and postpartum recovery. Take in third trimester.

Two Session Class: Date: Mondays May 9 and May 16, 2011 Location: Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa West Campus, Conference Room #1 Fee: $25.00 per person

The complete banking program for kids 14 and under!

Breastfeeding: A Healthy Start How you feed your baby is one of the many choices parents make. Whether you have chosen to breastfeed or are undecided, take this 2-hour class taught by Mercy Lactation Specialist.

Classes focus on breastfeeding basics, benefits, practical tips and support. Mothers and their partners are encouraged to attend. Take anytime during pregnancy.

Date: Monday, May 2, 2011 Location: Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa West Campus, Conference Room #2 Fee: $10.00 per person Date: Monday, June 6, 2011 Location: Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa West Campus, Conference Room #2 Fee: $10.00 per person To register or for more information, call the Mercy Education Department at 641-428-7100.

Join today and your child will receive an exclusive

FREE Power Saver Club Bib plus more!*

www.firstcitizensnb.com Mason City • Charles City • New Hampton Alta Vista • Osage • Clarion • Kanawha • Latimer *Member FDIC. Minimum opening deposit of $5 MS-25589

Tuition assistance is availabe, please inquire when calling.

The Mercy West Campus is located at 910 N. Eisenhower Avenue, Mason City, Iowa. The conference rooms are located on the lower level.

Park and enter the building on the East side; use the South entrance

6 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

TEETHING BITES TIPS FOR HELPING A TEETHING BABY FIND RELIEF As teeth erupt, some babies may become fussy, sleepless and irritable, lose their appetite or drool more than usual. Some babies may have sore or tender gums and often find relief by chewing. Gently rubbing your child’s gums with a clean finger can be soothing. Offering the following may help relieve your baby’s discomfort:

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

A cold or wet washcloth Hard, cold objects such as spoons A popsicle A frozen bagel A cold teething biscuit A chilled plastic teething ring or pacifier Cold, slushy foods such as applesauce or frozen, slushy fruit juice

You and Your Dentist: Partners in a Healthy Smile If you develop healthy habits as a child, you’ll enjoy a beautiful smile with healthy gums and teeth for a lifetime! Regular checkups and professional cleanings are essential to a healthy mouth, but that’s not all it takes to keep your smile bright and white. Follow these at-home care tips to help prevent cavities and maintain optimum oral health for your child.

• Brush and floss correctly in the morning and before bedtime.

• Assisted brushing/flossing is often necessary with younger children.

• Depending on the ability of your child to spit, a small smear of fluoride toothpaste may be recommended to prevent tooth decay.

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• Limit the number and frequency of sugary snacks/drinks your child consumes.

• If your child chews gum, offer them a sugarless variety.

• Non-alcohol containing fluoride mouth rinses may be recommended to assist your child with cavity prevention.

Brought to You By the Caring Professionals at:

Children’s Dental Center of Mason City Todd R. Hoeppner, D.D.S., PC Specializing in the Oral Health Care of Infants, Children, Teenagers and Persons with Special Needs.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 641-424-0060 • 615 S. Illinois Ave. • Mason City MS-27670

Your Child’s Vision

Parents want to provide the best conditions for their child’s visual development. Without good vision, a child may quietly lose the key means to learn and grow. What that means is that a child may “fall behind” or have trouble staying on track due to undetected vision problems. It is possible that a teacher may think your child has a learning disability when the problem may be vision-related.

Because vision problems may begin at an early age, proper eye care is vital to learning and personal adjustment. Vision develops and changes throughout childhood. A child’s vision needs a variety of stimuli to develop properly.

One in twenty...

...preschool age children has a vision problem that can cause permanent sight loss if left untreated. One in four school-age children in America has a vision impairment according to Prevent Blindness America. The risks of vision impairment to your children can impact them for a lifetime.

Your child should have a complete eye examination at six months of age, at three years of age and yearly while in school.

A Final Word

Protect your child’s valuable eyesight and see your eye care professional for regular examinations from birth through adulthood.

Early detection is the key.

Vision is a learned skill & learning begins at birth.

Clear Lake Optometry

MS-27660

14 N. 8th St., Clear Lake, IA 641-357-2020 www.cloptometry.com

8 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

DIAPER BAG CHECKLIST When traveling with a baby or young child, you can never be too prepared.

TheNestBaby.com suggests packing yours with the following items below.

Adjust according to season, the length of your trip (around the block or around the world?), and baby’s age and special needs. ❏ Diapers (one for every two hours and a few extra) ❏ Diaper wipes in a zipper bag (these also work as hand wipes for mommy) ❏ Changing pad ❏ Diaper cream ❏ Plastic bags for dirty clothes and diapers ❏ 1-2 changes of clothes ❏ Shirt or jacket for baby and mommy ❏ Blanket ❏ Hat for sun or cold ❏ Bottles and formula (for a lighter

load, measure powdered formula into clean bottles and mix with water at the destination) ❏ Baby food and spoons ❏ Burp cloths and bibs ❏ Teething gel or rings ❏ Pacifiers ❏ Toys for comfort and distraction ❏ Hand sanitizer ❏ Sunblock (if baby is over six months) ❏ Antibiotic cream, fever and pain reducer, antihistamine ❏ Emergency phone numbers, information

Voted best childrens clothing department in North Iowa We carry a large selection of John Deere and Carhartt for everyone from Babies to Adults plus many more childrens name brands!

MS-26448

STORE HOURS: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday & Friday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

DOWNTOWN GARNER • 641-923-2761

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 9

Tips for keeping your baby’s teeth healthy Primary teeth typically begin to appear when a baby is between age six months and one year.

Good dental health is essential to your baby's gums and those future permanent teeth.

To be sure your baby's new pearly whites get the best care:

1. Start cleaning your child's mouth even before her teeth come in. Wipe your baby’s gums a warm, wet washcloth or a damp piece of gauze wrapped around your finger.

2. Begin gently brushing your child’s teeth with very soft toothbrush and a little bit of water as soon as the first tooth appears. These first teeth preserve the spacing for the permanent ones and help baby chew and talk. If they're not cared for properly they can decay, which can result in gingivitis and affect the spacing of permanent teeth.

3. Watch for cavities. Discoloration and minor pitting are the first signs of cavities in baby teeth. Putting baby to bed with a bottle of milk (or worse, juice) is notorious for causing cavities.

Don't leave your infant with a bottle for long periods of time, especially if you notice he's no longer feeding and is just using the bottle for comfort.

4. Regulate baby's fluoride intake. Nonfluoride toothpaste can be introduced at about age 2.

Wait until at least age 3, when your child is old enough not to swallow the toothpaste, before introducing the fluoride kind. Even though your baby isn't using a fluoride toothpaste, he should get enough fluoride -- important for preventing tooth decay -- from drinking tap water.

5. Schedule a dental exam. The American Dental Association recommends that baby get his first dental exam as soon as his or her first tooth erupts, but at least no later than the age of 1.

Scheduling regular dental check-ups can help your child maintain a life-long healthy smile.

First

Impressions From their very first tooth to braces and dental care for life, we are your local family dentistry clinic. Designed to treat a wide variety of dental needs, we also offer the friendliest, highest quality dental care.

Drs. Tesene, Maurer & Maurer, DDS, PC “Comprehensive Family Dentistry” Dr. Roy Tesene Dr. Amy Maurer Dr. Matt Maurer

MS-27666

55 State Street • Garner • 923.3771 • 800.450.3771

www.garnerdentists.com “We start seeing children for their first dental screening at age one!”

10 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

SAFETY Before you head outside to enjoy that beautiful day with baby, look over this important checklist of ways to stay safe in the summertime.

■ Stay out of the sun. Babies under six months should never get direct rays, and older kids should still avoid as much as possible. This means hats (look for one with a flap that covers the neck), an umbrella on the stroller, and lots and lots of shade.

■ If you have a pool outside, empty it every night -- no exceptions. Even the tiniest bit of water can spell serious danger for a baby. And, make sure you or another present adult knows CPR and life-saving techniques when you're around water.

■ When you're in or around water, keep baby within arms reach... because no,

little patients...

big care Keeping Kids Healthy Through Birth, Colds, Scrapes, Broken Bones, Earaches & More We’re Dedicated to Helping Children Stay Healthy & Happy

EAGLE FAMILY HEALTH

MS-27663

Lisa M. Kies, MD 903 W. Congress Nora Springs, IA 641-749-5576

babies can't swim. For kids under four, swim classes don't count as a way to decrease drowning risk.

■ Don't put insect repellent on babies under two months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. After that, check the labels carefully -- older kids (and adults!) should never use repellent with more than 30% DEET or picaridin concentration. Oil of lemon eucalyptus shouldn't be used on kids under three years. If you pick a natural repellent, look for age restrictions printed on the bottle.

■ When you do apply repellent, do so sparingly, and only on exposed skin. Don't put it on hands, areas around the eyes and mouth, or any irritated skin or wounds. If you're spraying, do it outside and away from food. Once you're back inside, use soap and water to wash away the repellent.

■ Stay away from areas that attract bugs, including open foods, blooming gardens and stagnant water. And, save the bright, flowery-printing clothes for an indoor day.

■ Having a picnic? Don't let the food sit outside for more than two hours, or if the temp is over 90°F, one hour. Also, try packing the picnic the night before and refrigerating it -- this way, it'll stay cold longer once outside.

■ When it's hot outside, baby needs more breast milk or formula than usual. (Not water, though! This can mess with electrolytes.)

■ Look over the playground before you let the little one loose. Metal equipment -especially slides -- can really heat up under the sun. And a burned bottom isn't fun for baby or you!

- Source: TheNestBaby.com

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 11

Radon - what you need to know The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health is working to educate residents about the dangers of radon exposure, a leading environmental health risk. Radon is dispersed in outdoor air, but can reach harmful levels when trapped in buildings.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. For smokers, exposure to radon constitutes a serious health risk. Although lung cancer can be treated, the survival rate is one of the lowest for those with cancer.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that comes from the radioactive decay of radium, which is a decay product of uranium. Uranium and radium are both common elements in the soil.

“Because you can’t see or smell radon, people tend to down play the health effects and ignore the possibility that there might be a silent killer in their homes,” says Erik Gustafson, Healthy Homes Coordinator from the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health.

Tests by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show Iowa has the highest percentage (71.6 percent) of homes over the recommended action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/l) of air. A picocurie represents a unit of radioactivity.

The major source of high levels of radon in homes is soil surrounding the house.

Radon gas from the soil can enter a home or building through dirt floors, hollow-block walls, cracks in the foundation floor and walls, and openings around floor drains, pipes and sump pumps.

Radon is often more highly concentrated in basements, ground floors and the first floor of homes. Any home may have a radon problem. Radon problems have been identified in every state.

As radon decays and is inhaled into the lungs, its byproducts release energy that can damage sensitive lung tissue and lead to lung cancer. For nonsmokers, exposure to elevated radon levels can increase the risk of lung cancer as much as smoking can.

While no level is considered absolutely safe, the EPA recommends that action be taken when indoor levels are above 4 pCi/l.

Testing for radon is easy and relatively inexpensive. Radon test kits can be purchased at local hardware and home improvement stores for between $10 to $25.

Kits are available from the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health for $5.00. The test kits can be picked up at the department at 22 N. Georgia Avenue, Mason City, third floor, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Instructions for the test kit are really clear, said Gustafson, and include a postage-paid envelope for sending the detector back to the lab for analysis after a set number of days. The test kit should be placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home.

Information on results offers suggestions on what to do if the level is above 4 pCi/l.

Radon problems can be fixed by qualified contractors for a cost similar to that of many common home repairs such as painting or having a new water heater installed.

Professional contractors must be certified by the Iowa Department of Public Health For questions about radon and mitigation, call the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health at 641-4219300. Gustafson can also be reached at 641-421-9339. Website is www.cghealth.com. More information is available from the Iowa Department of Public Health’s website www.idph.state.ia.us. The phone number for the state radon office is 1-515-281-4928.

12 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

Influenza and your child Influenza is a respiratory illness, a highly contagious viral infection, affecting mainly the nose, throat, bronchi and, occasionally, lungs In the very young, the elderly, and those with other serious conditions.

Infection can lead to severe complications including pneumonia and respiratory distress. Children especially are spreaders of germs.

Keeping in mind that influenza is a highly contagious viral infection, the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health encourages vaccinations for individual protection as well as the way to prevent the spread of the illness.

Symptoms of influenza range from fever to muscle aches. Headache and extreme tiredness, perhaps combined with a dry cough, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose are other symptoms. Healthy adults may inadvertently infect others beginning one day before symptoms appear and up to five days after becoming sick.

Anyone is at risk for the influenza virus Not only does a vaccination protect the person getting it others around them are also protected. Healthcare and emergency medical personnel who are vaccinated keep from spreading the virus.

Spread of the virus is mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing.

People can sometimes become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their nose or mouth.

The Iowa Department of Pubic Health sees vaccination as the best way to prevent seasonal flu. There are two types of vaccines, a flu shot or a nasal spray flu vaccine.

The shot is an inactivated vaccine that contains killed virus that is given with a needle. The flu shot is approved for use in those six months of age and older, including people with chronic medical conditions.

Nasal spray flu vaccine is made with live, weakened viruses that do not cause the flu.

The spray is less invasive and the weakened live virus dies once it hits the nasal area. The spray is approved for use in healthy people 2-49 years of age who are not pregnant.

The spray is appropriate even for healthy persons who live with or care for those in a high risk group. The one exception is healthy persons who care for others with severely weakened immune systems.

The timing and duration of influenza seasons vary, and yearly vaccination should usually begin in September when the vaccine becomes available. The flu season can last into December, January, and beyond. Outbreaks can happen as early as October, and usually peaks in January.

However, the season may last until spring.

Children 8 and under need two doses for seasonal flu. They are not fully protected by the first dose, and the second dose gives a boost to the immune system. The next year they will need only one dose.

“It is sometimes hard to get kids back for the second dose,” said Karen Crimmings, Disease Prevention and Investigation Service Manager.

Certain people should get vaccinated each year if they are at high risk of having serious flu complications. Those who live with or care for high risk persons should also be vaccinated.

High risk categories for influenza complications and transmission include: children aged six months up to their 19th birthday; pregnant women; people 50 years of age and older; people with chronic medical conditions; people who live in longterm care facilities; and people who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu.

The influenza virus changes every year.

Public health providers and those who make the vaccine decide each year which kinds of flu will likely make people sick.

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 13 Viruses almost never are the same from year to year, so the kinds of influenza in the vaccine change every year. The vaccine only protects for one year.

“After six months, we encourage everyone to get the vaccine,” said Crimmings. Children under six months are too young to get the vaccine.

Washing hands with soap and water, or using a hand sanitizer if hands do not look dirty, helps protect people from the flu.

Staying home from work or school while ill also helps protect others.

Parents with questions about immunization can call the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health at 641421-9300. Questions may also be directed to the department’s Disease Prevention and Immunization Clinic at 641-421-9321.

Another good source of information is the website at www.cghealth.com.

Join the Hy-Vee

Club!

A little club with BIG savings!

Whenever you buy specially selected baby items at this store, you’ll receive “Baby Bucks” at the checkout. Once you collect $300 in “Baby Bucks”, take them to the Hy-Vee Customer Service counter and receive a $10 Hy-Vee Gift Card useable on anything at Hy-Vee. Earn as many gift cards as you want.

Sign up at the Pharmacy or customer service counter.

Once you’re on our Hy-Vee Baby Club list, you’ll be eligible to receive offers designed for the special needs of new parents.

When your child is sick, you can trust thee Y! professionals at HY-VEE PHARMACY!

MS-25789

• Convenient drive-up service • FREE in-town prescription delivery!

• Fast, friendly same day service.

WEST PHARMACY

2400 4th St SW | Mason City, IA 50401 641-424-2605 • Pharmacy: 641-424-1343

14 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

ONLINE RESOURCES HELP VERIFY PRODUCTS’ SAFETY Kids in Danger is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting children from defective products. Their website www.kidsindanger.org provides information regarding popular products with dangerous track records.

The U.S. government does set safety standards for many children's products, however, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association’s standards are higher than those set by the federal government. The JPMA certifies a wide variety of products, from bassinets and cradles to infant carriers and walkers, all manufactured by companies who voluntarily meet the organization’s requirements for certification. Look for the JPMA’s seal of certification when buying children’s products or visit www.jpma.org for a complete list of certified products.

The Consumer Reports website (www.consumerreports.org) offers free and for-fee information about baby products and gear.

You can also find the group's reviews and ratings compiled in the book Consumer Reports Best Baby Products, by Sandra Gordon.

Always read the packaging to make sure that the toy or product is age appropriate for your child. The age you see on the label reflects important characteristics about the product — such as whether it has small parts that could choke or sharp edges and points that could scratch.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission maintains a complete list of recalled products on its website, www.cpsc.gov.

Two categories "Child products (not including toys)" and "Toys"make it easy to find what you’re looking for. These listings contain important information such as: • a description of the product being recalled, including product numbers and when and where the product was sold • injuries that could result from using the product • steps the manufacturer is taking to remedy the situation • contact information for the manufacturer The CPSC also offers free recall alert e-mails so parents can be notified directly when a product is recalled.

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 15

Designing the perfect playroom on a shoestring budget Playrooms are ideal spaces for encouraging children’s creativity, providing them with the stimulation they crave and helping them create a connection with others. The great news is that you don’t have to build an addition onto the house to create a great playroom.

Many unused extra spaces in the home can function as playroom spaces. Make sure the space is safe and secure for the ages of children who will be playing in it. Spaces under staircases and large closets can make great play areas and give

an almost fort-like feel for your child to play make-believe in.

“Create universal spaces that will grow with your children,” encourages Nancy Bohnett, academic director of Interior Design at The Art Institute of Las Vegas. “Your first child may be a 3-year-old girl who loves princesses, but she may outgrow her love for pink in a few years and gain a baby brother who will also use the space as he grows.”

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16 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

BEWARE OF BABY DANGER ZONES Your child's early attempts at walking and climbing are inherently dangerous.

But factor in your home's sharp table corners, electrical cords, and toxic cleaners, and the potential for disaster is everywhere. Follow our room-by-room checklist to reduce your child's risk of injury and potential hazards...

BATHROOM • Keep cosmetics, razors, grooming scissors, and medicines (even vitamins) in a locked cabinet or drawer.

• Put a latch on the toilet seat and keep it closed. Small children can drown in just a few inches of water.

• Make sure the floors and lower shelves of your linen closet are free of small items that your toddler might choke on, such as cotton balls or swabs.

LIVING ROOM • Use a VCR lock to prevent your child's prying fingers from getting trapped in the video slot.

• Check under recliners and sofa cushions for loose change and other choking hazards, especially after guests leave.

• Secure bookcases to the wall with brackets. Your tiny tot could topple a bookcase simply by reaching for a book or climbing on a shelf.

• Cut window-blind cords, or tie them out of kids' reach, to prevent strangulation. Remove small plastic pulls or metal slides from the window cords to prevent choking.

• Hide electrical wires behind furniture. Never run them under carpeting. And cover up any exposed outlets with screw-on covers or cap plugs.

KITCHEN • Place refrigerator magnets high enough so that your toddler can't grab them and pop them in her mouth.

• Lock the door of your dishwasher, oven, front-loading dryer, or any other appliance your child might get into.

• Keep knives away from countertop edges.

• While cooking, turn pot handles away from the front of the stove to prevent dangerous spills.

• Keep all cleaners, as well as plastic bags, plastic wrap and foil locked up.

• Unplug small appliances when not in use.

HOME OFFICE • Keep office supplies where your child can't grab them. Be sure to keep sharp objects like scissors or letter openers out of reach.

• Cover up power strips -- not only to prevent electrocution but also to keep your tot from unplugging the computer while you're working.

• Cover any sharp furniture edges or corners with adhesive cushions.

If buying new furniture, look for pieces with rounded edges and corners.

• Avoid using a desk with a gliding keyboard tray, which might pinch your child's fingers. If you do use one, find a tray that locks in place.

• Swivel chairs can be hazardous if your toddler slips and hits his head. Try cushioning the legs and base with a foam swimming noodle cut to fit.

TODDLING TIMES 2011 • 17 • Hang a mirror on the wall above your computer monitor so you can see your child playing in the area behind you.

AROUND THE HOUSE • Remove the rubber ends from door stoppers on baseboards; they pose a choking risk. Or remove the stopper entirely and install a Vshaped hinge pin at the top end of the door.

• Hide wastebaskets under the sink or in a locked cabinet. Or use a container with a secure lid.

• Keep your guests' purses or bags out of your toddler's reach; visitors may carry risky medications, toiletries, or choking hazards.

• Get rid of poisonous or dangerous household plants.

• Install childproof knob covers on doors to your basement, garage,

laundry room, exercise room, attic, and bathrooms.

AWAY FROM HOME • Scan the room as soon as you arrive, and immediately move breakables out of your toddler's reach.

• If you're staying for a while or going to a hotel room, bring your own outlet cap plugs, cabinet locks or latches, and tub mats.

• Travel with a portable crib so you have a place to put your toddler for a few minutes if you need to leave the room.

• Move tempting items, like small toiletries and drinking glasses, out of kids' reach.

• Beware of bathroom doors that lock at the push of a button. Hang a towel over the door so your child can't lock herself

24 FREE

4x6 Digital Prints

whenwhen you you mention mentionBaby “BABY2011!

2011”!

Dad, get your photos developed as soon as you leave the hospital, we’re right across the highway!

1 HOUR FILM & DIGITAL PHOTO DEVELOPING (4x6)!

We care about you and your new baby!

PHARMACY SERVICES:

MS-25665

• Fast, friendly same day service and we’re right across from the hospital!

• FREE in-town delivery • Drive through service • Accepting all major insurance prescription plans.

• Customer consultation by our knowledgeablepharmacists.

Transferring a prescription is easy, just call 424-5522!

875 4th St. SW, Mason City 424-4181

18 • TODDLING TIMES 2011

Feed Baby with Less Mess

1 2

Serve finger foods when possible. Cooked pasta and cereal can go right onto the high-chair tray - no spoons or dishes required!

Protect the floor with an old sheet or anything easily washable.

Keep in mind, babies tend to fling food. Be sure to cover enough surface to catch any flying food.

3

Cover slippery pieces of fruit, like peaches and bananas in crushed cereal before placing them on baby’s tray. They won’t slide of out of little hands quite so easily.

4

After your baby has finished his or her meal, let them play with a warm, damp washcloth while still sitting in the highchair. Clean up the tray while your little one cleans himself up a bit.

5

Get a dog to sniff out and lick up any bits of baby’s meal that managed to get away.

Start Saving today by visiting one of our convenient locations.

We invite you to get started today!

MS-26084

Main Branch - 640 S. Federal Ave., Mason City • 641-424-2281 West Branch - 4063 4th Street SW, Mason City • 641-423-2281 Toll Free 888-424-2281 • www.NICCU.com Growing with North Iowa Businesses since 1956

TODDLING TIMES 2011 โ ข 19

What do vaccinations protect you from?

Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat, airway. It can lead to breathing problems, heart failure, paralysis, death. It can be prevented by having the DTaP vaccine.

Tetanus also called Lock Jaw, causes serious, painful spasms of all muscles and can lead to "locking of the jaw, "so the patient cannot open mouth or swallow. It can lead to death. It can be prevented by having the DTaP vaccine.

Pertussis, also called Whooping Cough, can lead to pneumonia, seizures, brain damage or death. It can be prevented by having the DTaP vaccine.

Polio causes fever, sore throat, nausea, headache, diarrhea, stomachache, stiffness in the neck, back and legs. It can lead to breathing difficulty, paralysis or death. It can be prevented by having the polio vaccine (IPV).

Measles causes rash, cough and fever.

It can lead to diarrhea, ear infection, pneumonia, brain damage or death. It can be prevented by having the MMR vaccine.

Mumps causes fever, headache and swollen glands under the jaw. It can lead to hearing loss, painful, swollen testicles, meningitis (an infection of the brain & spinal cord). It can be prevented by having the MMR vaccine.

Rubella, also called German Measles, causes rash, mild fever, swollen glands, arthritis. Babies could die during pregnancy. Babies could be born deaf, blind, with brain damage, heart disease or other serious problems. It can be prevented by having the MMR vaccine.

Haemophilus Influenza Type B causes meningitis, pneumonia and other infections.

It can lead to ear infections, croup, permanent brain damage or death. It can be prevented by having the Hib vaccine.

Hepatitis B causes a life long contagious infection & chronic illness. It can lead to chronic liver disease or cancer.

It can be prevented by having the HBV vaccine.

Varicella, also called Chicken Pox, causes fever, itchy blisters and more

serious illness. It can be complicated by bacterial infections of the skin and lungs, causing brain damage and death. It can be prevented by having the Varicella vaccine.

Pneumococcal illness is a serious disease among children. It can cause ear infections, meningitis or death. It can be prevented by having the PCV7 (Prevnar) vaccine.

Hepatitis A causes fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice. A person who has hepatitis A can easily pass the disease to others within the same household. It can be prevented by having the HAV vaccine.

Rotavirus is the most common cause of severe diarrhea among children. It annually causes 55,000 U.S. children to be hospitalized and 600,000 children to die worldwide. It can be prevented by having the Rotateq or Rotarix vaccine.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. It can cause cervical cancer and other diseases in females. It can be prevented by having the Gardasil vaccine.

Meningococcal illness causes infection of the fluid of a person's spinal cord or fluid that surrounds the brain. It can lead to high fever, headache, stiff neck, death. It can be prevented by having the Menactra or Menomune (MCV4 or MPSV4) vaccine. ยบSource: Cerro Gordo Department of Public Health

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS HEALTHCARE PROVIDER _______________________ Address ________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________

EMERGENCY

911

..................

NATIONAL POISON CONTROL . . . . . .1-800-222-1222 LOCAL POISON CONTROL . . . . . . ._______________ FIRE DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . ._______________ POLICE DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . ._______________ MOTHER _____________________________________ Address ___________________________________________ Home Phone ______________ Cell Phone _____________ Work Phone ______________ Alt.Phone ______________

FATHER ______________________________________ Address ___________________________________________ Home Phone ______________ Cell Phone _____________ Work Phone ______________ Alt.Phone ______________

EMERGENCY CONTACT 1_______________________ Address ___________________________________________ Home Phone ______________ Cell Phone _____________ Work Phone ______________ Alt.Phone ______________

EMERGENCY CONTACT 2 _______________________ Address ___________________________________________ Home Phone ______________ Cell Phone _____________ Work Phone ______________ Alt.Phone ______________

EMERGENCY CONTACT 3 _______________________ Address ___________________________________________ Home Phone ______________ Cell Phone _____________ Work Phone ______________ Alt.Phone ______________

Celebrations

In your Sunday Globe Gazette and online at: www.globegazette.com

Please TYPE or PRINT. • Deadline: Monday at 5 pm to be in the following Sunday.

• Preferred publication date: __________________________________________________ • Name, address and phone number of person submitting form: _____________________________________________________________________________ Yes, I would like to receive 5 complimentary copies of the Sunday Celebrations. A voucher for 5 copies will be given to me upon receipt of payment. Mailed upon request - postage fee applies, see back of form.

New Arrival Announcement Form Headline: STANDARD Baby’s Name _______________________________________________ CUSTOM (up to 4 words) _______________________________________________ 1. STANDARD This announcement will be published for free - photos are an additional charge Parents’ name ____________________________________________________________________ of (city, state) _____________________________________________________________________ are the proud parents of a son/daughter (circle one) Baby’s name _____________________________________________________________________ was born at (time & date) ________________________________________________________ at (place of birth) ________________________________________________________________ He/She weighed (pounds) ________ (ounces) ________ and was _____ inches long 2. CUSTOM This information will be published in addition to standard information at a pre-paid cost of $5 for each additional 50 words.

Baby’s name _____________________________________________________________________ is welcomed by (names of brothers and sisters) __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Grandparents name(s) ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________

PHOTO GUIDELINES Please mark the box with the same size photo you would like published.

PHOTO SIZES: Small photo: 1 column Black&White: $26.50 Color: $36.50 Large photo size: 2 column Black & White: $36.50

Color: $56.50

PAYMENT Custom wording

__________ $10 for each add 50 words

Front cover charge __________ $75 (includes full color photo) Mail copies

__________ $3 postage fee

Total Cost

__________

FORM OF PAYMENT

Check/Money Order Cash Credit Card: Master Card Visa

Discover

Card# ______________________________________________ Exp date ________________ Name on card ______________________________________ Phone __________________ Signature _____________________________________________________________________ Payment must be made BEFORE publication. Please send announcement, photo and check/money order/credit card information to Globe Gazette, 300 N Washington, Mason City, IA 50401. Make check/money order payable to Globe Gazette. If you would like your photo returned, you may stop in after it has published in the paper. For more information, contact us at 641.423.2274. You may email us at classads@globegazette.com.

Your Family Deserves the Best Are you wondering about the quality of your water?

Call us today for a FREE water analysis valued at $19.95.

Mason City • 641-423-5814 MS-28002

www.culliganwater.com

• Better Water - Culligan water will improve the taste of everything you make with water - coffee, teas, drinks, ice cubes, baby formula and all your recipes See the Difference - Clothes and linens are cleaner, brighter and softer.

• Satisfaction - Culligan’s 100% Satisfaction Guarantee ensures that your Culligan Dealer will address your water problems. If you are not fully satisfied with a Culligan Product within 30 days after your purchase, we will give you a full refund - no questions asked.

(Dealer participation may vary).

• Save Money - Your entire home uses less detergent and soap; appliances work more efficiently and last longer.

MS-25794

Put Yourself In Good Hands.

No one likes to get sick. But when you do, there's nothing more important than knowing you're in the hands of the right doctor at the right time.

At Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa, you'll find pediatricians, obstetricians and gynecologists as well as experts in family and emergency medicine. In fact, our doctors are skilled in almost every medical speciality imaginable, providing nothing less than the most sophisticated level of care when you need it.

There's no substitute for knowing you're in good hands.

1.800.433.3883 • www.mercynorthiowa.com

Mercy Family Health Line 641-428-7777 or 1-800-468-0050 Free Health Information (24/7) and Physician Referrals MS-25662