I am sure this can be a very sensitive topic when it comes to the health of your preemie but the fact of the matter is you have to do what you feel is right for your little one. I think as long as you instruct your family members and friends to thoroughly wash their hands before they hold your preemie, there shouldn’t be a problem. If anyone in your family or any of your friends have even the slightest cold, kindly ask them if they can hold off until they are free and clear since preemies can catch any cold or virus very quickly, and it is much harder for them to fight germs off. This could cause health problems and further complications.

If you do decide to let friends and family members hold your early addition after washing their hands, don’t let them hold him or her for too long. The bond with the mother is very important at this stage in preemie development. Being around too many adults for a long period of time can hinder that bond since preemie’s are very different than that of your full term newborn. I am sure your friends and family will understand, especially because of the state of your baby.

Most definitely do not let any stranger even come remotely close since so many adults carry so many germs. Even a slight little touch can cause your preemie to get sick very quickly. It is best if you don’t go out too much with your preemie to avoid this problem. Plus, keeping track of his body temperature is very important, so leaving the home too much is probably not a good idea.

I personally did not experience a preemie birth but I am close to someone who did and got to see exactly what she went through to keep her little one safe from all sorts of germs. It’s definitely a very delicate situation not only for the preemie but also for the mother and father of the preemie. If you are currently a parent to a preemie, don’t let friends and family tell you what to do or what is best for your little one. Only you and your baby’s pediatrician can tell you that.

Are you are parent to a preemie? What were your rules regarding letting family and friends hold him or her? Please share your experiences with us.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

If you’re a new parent, you probably have your child’s diapering area set up appropriately. Diapers and wipes – check. Diaper cream – check. Baby powder – you may want to hold off on. Although baby powder is sold with baby essentials and has that sweet smell that few can resist, it’s one of those items that just isn’t necessary. In fact, baby powder can be possibly harmful, especially to a young infant.

Traditionally, baby powder has been used on infants to keep the skin soft and dry, thus fighting off diaper rash. Even though it feels and smells good, pediatricians do not recommend the powdery stuff and neither does the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since baby powder is expelled into the air, your little one can breathe it in and irritate his or her lungs. This may lead to further breathing difficulties down the road.

Although baby powder isn’t recommended, you don’t have to throw away that bottle quite yet. First, make sure that it is made from cornstarch instead of talc, as many are. Cornstarch is better for the skin and the lungs, and isn’t inhaled as easily. Second, you can use the baby powder in skin folds and creases that may be subject to irritation. Just make sure you don’t let the powder build up in the skin creases and that you don’t shake the powder near baby’s face.

And of course, when setting up your diapering area, you now know that you don’t have to include baby powder into the mix.

If you do have several bottles laying around from your child’s welcome home gifts, consider using the baby powder for other applications. For example, baby powder works great when at the beach and you need something to get the sticky, wet sand off your feet. Or if you’ve skipped a shower (or two), toss some in your hair for a refreshing lift. Baby powder can also be used on oily spots and spills, as it absorbs the oil.

Image: mothersspace.in

As soon as we find out there is a bun in the oven we can’t help but plan their room, right? There are so many themes out there for baby boys and baby girls, which do you choose? Has it become overrated? I think that maybe it has, but what other options do you have? Well, just the other day a friend of mine, who is expecting twins after 9 years of trying, is doing something very unique for her sweet babies’ room. It is no particular theme but it is absolutely darling, I must say. When you walk in the room you may expect to see Winnie the Pooh or baby Hello Kitty. Not this room! The walls are delicately decorated with deep color polka dots – and not little ones, but large ones, all over the walls. Is the room polka dot themed though? Not at all. The curtains match a different color of a polka dot on the wall and that’s about it. Very simple yet super adorable. It’s most definitely not something I would think of for a baby’s room but I think this trendy idea may just catch on.

What do you think? Do you think themed baby rooms are overrated, or are you traditional and like the themed baby rooms? I know that I am traditional when it comes to that sort of stuff. I wouldn’t know how to think up something as creative as my friend’s baby room. It truly is different and nothing like I have ever seen for a nursery. Please feel free to share your thoughts and ideas on the subject!

Image: Wikimedia Commons

If you’re expecting a baby, no doubt you’re excited to find out what the gender of your little one to-be is. While there’s no telling for sure until the Big Day, there are fun myths out there that many people swear by. Remember, these myths are just for fun!

Carrying High/Low – Gender myths say if you’re carrying low, you have a little boy on your hands. Carrying high? A girl is on the way!

Ring Test – Take your wedding ring and tie a string to it. Hang the ring over your belly and if it goes back and forth, you have a girl! If the ring goes around in a circle, it’s a boy!

Drano Test - For this test (and make sure you do it in a well ventilated area and don’t inhale the fumes) is done by urinating in a cup and mixing in a tablespoon of Drano. If it turns green, it’s a girl. Blue – it’s a boy!

Heart Rate – When you head to the doctor’s to listen to your baby’s heart rate, ask how many heartbeats per minute your baby is having. If it’s over 140, there may be a little girl in there!

Sweet vs. Sour – Love the sweet stuff? Expect to bring on the pink! Love sour or salty foods instead? Then it must be a little boy!

Morning Sickness – Many believe that since girl hormones mix with their mom’s, stronger feelings of morning sickness come about. If you have no morning sickness, you can expect a boy instead.

Even and Odd Numbers – This creative way of determining a baby’s gender comes from the Mayans. Consider the mother’s age at conception and the year of conception. If both numbers are even or odd, it’s a girl. If one is even and one is odd, expect a baby boy!

Chinese Birth Chart – This handy chart has been used for centuries to determine the sex of unborn babies. All you need is your age at conception and the month of conception. Try a Chinese Gender Predictor here.

Pimples - They say boys take your brains and girls take your beauty! If you’ve been blessed with plenty of red bumps on your face, it’s probably a girl to blame! Glowing instead? Enjoy a little boy on his way!

Keyed In - If you have a friend who is expecting, lay a key down in front of her and ask her to pick it up. If she picks it up by the round part, she can expect a little boy to be on his way. If she picks the key up by narrow part, she can plan on a little girl!

Image: genderpredictions.blinkweb.com

Now that we’re settled into summer, your vacation is probably creeping closer. Whether you’re taking a vacation far away from home, or simply adventuring out in your own area, there are plenty of must-haves that you and baby will need. Being prepared to handle messy situations when away from home is the best way to help you feel – and stay – in control. So enjoy your upcoming trip and be sure to pack your bags with these essentials:

Front or Back Carrier – Carriers are a great way to keep baby close, while keeping your hands free. Best of all, they don’t have to be expensive. Many carriers cost less than $30, which means you can buy an inexpensive one just for vacation time. Make sure you handle all the adjustments before you leave home so you’re not fiddling with it at the amusement park.

Portable High Chairs – These portable seats clip right on to any table and fold up when done. There are many different styles, but all fold up compactly and come with a handy carry bag. They serve as a great way to keep baby clean while eating, as well as in a familiar seat. Some chairs hook up to the table and allow baby to eat there, while others have their own tray.

Sun Cabana – Cabanas are super lightweight and can be tossed in any diaper bag for sun protection at the park or beach. Many have UV protection as well and come in fun colors.

Sleep Tents – If your family loves camping, don’t think you can’t take baby along. There are special “sleep anywhere” tents that include an inflatable mattress for baby to sleep. These sleep tents also have UV protection and can be used in place of a cabana. Here’s to naps on the beach!

Umbrella Stroller – Sure, joggers are great, but when you’re vacationing, you’ll want something lightweight. Try an aluminum-framed umbrella stroller that can be tossed in the car with little effort. Some can be expensive, but many cost under $40.

Bottle Warmer – When baby is ready to eat, don’t let him or her wait it out. A bottle warmer can heat up baby’s bottle in a few short minutes. Some use the outlet in the car, while others are made for on-the-go use.

Waterproof Picnic Blankets – They’re soft and colorful and perfect for a sunny day. Plus, waterproof picnic blankets fold up and have their own matching carry cases. One side is for sitting, while the other acts as a waterproof barrier, keeping out moisture.

Insulated Food Packs - Keep food and drinks cool with insulated packs. Trendier than ever, these packs have convenient pockets and carry handles that make versatile and lightweight. They’re great for jars of baby food, sippy cups and water bottles for Mom and Dad.

Image Source: weetravel.wordpress.com

Just recently, there has been a federal ban on the sale of used cribs at all retail outlets, online sites (i.e eBay and Craigslist), and yard sales in the U.S.  Wow, that’s a tough rule isn’t it?  But, in all honesty, we want our preemies and newborns to be safe.  A lot of people I believe ruined it for those who keep our cribs in good condition and have the good sense not to resell them.  I think a lot of people sell broken cribs without alerting the consumer of the problem which then could lead to a catastrophe at large.  This ban also includes drop side cribs.  Apparently 10 babies a year die in crib accidents so I think it is best that the resale of cribs be banned ASAP. 

The day before this report came out, I tore down my used crib to let my brother and sister-in-law use for their upcoming baby.  It’s a Babee Tenda, a certified hospital bed which also happens to be a drop side crib with a little door for soothing.  Granted, I didn’t sell them the crib since it was a donation but I alerted them of this report and advised them to reconsider using the crib for the safety of their baby.

If individuals do not follow these new guidelines, if found out (which could potentially be difficult to find every resale of a used crib), there is up to a $100,000 violation.  Yikes!  So per sale of used crib by one party, the fine can potentially double.  That’s scary to say the least but I think all parents should follow these new safety rules. After all, babies are priceless and it’s definitely worth paying money for a new crib.  If you can’t afford a new crib, consider a fundraiser or ask for donations.  Good minded people are usually always ready to help those in need, especially when it comes to babies.

What do you think of this new safety report?  Do you think it’s the right move?  Or do you think there is nothing wrong with used cribs as long as they are in good shape?  Please share your thoughts and opinions with us.

Source: My Fox Detroit

Image: Wikimedia Commons

During the hot summer months, you want your preemie or newborn to be comfortable and healthy, especially if you find yourself without air conditioning. Maybe consider purchasing some fans to help keep your rooms nice and cool while your little one adjusts to their new environment. While the temperatures could reach a scorching level, how can you be sure your preemie will be safe? 

Here are some summer safety tips that may help you with caring for your preemie or newborn.

Summer Safety Tips

- If all possible, keep your sweet little one out of the sun. Shade is of utmost importance including a summer hat that will completely shade their face. If you must be in the sun be sure to apply sunscreen (baby safe) to avoid sun damage. If possible, consult your preemie’s pediatrician regarding the usage of sunscreen on preemies.

- Be sure your preemie or newborn is staying hydrated. Water is not the answer. Consider feeding your baby more frequently since babies under 6 months of age should not consume water.

- Be sure there is proper air circulation in your vehicle. 

- Never leave a baby unattended in a carrier for even a minute. Heat temperatures can double very quickly inside a closed vehicle.

- Keep your preemie or newborn protected from insects. It is suggested to cover carriers and strollers with a special netting to avoid bug bites such as mosquitoes.

For more summer safety tips for caring for your little one check out summer tips on madeformums.com.

Source: About

Image: Life123.com

When your little one has mastered baby food, you can start with small pieces of finger foods. Basically, any foods that are cut up small enough to be picked up and eaten by baby are classified as finger foods. This is an important step toward independent eating and also allows baby new tastes and textures. Around 7 to 9 months is when most babies are ready to make this step, and they generally show their desire to eat on their own by grabbing the spoon you’re feeding them from.

So what are some of the best finger foods you can give your little one?

- Bananas are soft and easy to eat, plus packed with plenty of vitamins.

- Avocados are filled with good fat and super soft for little fingers.

- Sweet potatoes can be cut up in small chunks or sliced into fries. They’re sweet and power packed with nutrients.

- Cooked peas are easy to eat and even more fun to play with!

- Shredded, cooked chicken is a lean protein.

- Cheerios contain whole grains and serve as the perfect snack for little fingers. Instead of adding sugar, try the flavored varieties as a treat.

- Cooked lentils are soft and easy to pick up. They contain lots of protein and get baby used to eating beans.

- Garbanzo beans are also easy for baby to grasp and have a sweet taste that kids love! Serve them cold or hot.

- Whole wheat macaroni is filled with whole grains and tastes delicious with a bit of sauce or butter.

- Cubes of tofu are fun and easy to eat, plus absorb flavor. They can also be added to dishes such as macaroni and cheese.

- Pieces of low-mercury fish such as salmon or tilapia are tender and tasty. Cook these filets of fish in a small amount of butter or oil and season lightly for a delicious alternative to meat.

- Small chunks of cheese are tasty for baby and offer good fat and plenty of calcium.

Image c/o: thebabycorner.com

Many of us know the benefits of vaccinating our babies, but then there are the possible risks that seem to have parents on pins and needles these days.  Does the same apply to preemies?  This is a good question, and one I had to research pretty quickly as there has been ongoing confusion if vaccinations are safe for preemies since they are not as developed as healthy newborns. Here is what I found:

According to the Labor of Love,  “just like a newborn, the decision to vaccinate your preemie is entirely up to you.” But, and this is a big but, if you decide to get your preemie vaccinated at two months old, you should take every precaution possible as they are at an “increased risk for respiratory and/or heart side effects.” This is why waiting until more than two months after they are born to have them vaccinated is recommended. Because so many preemies have multiple health conditions, getting them too many vaccinations all at once can put them at great risk of continued health problems, which you most definitely want to avoid.  Studies do show that “preemies do have the worse reactions to vaccines just within 48 hours than other babies.”

I guess the best overall advice to any parent with a preemie is to just wait until your preemie is older to avoid those medical and health risks. Again, it is up to you what you choose to do, but don’t forget to ask your preemie’s pediatrician for advice before going forward with any vaccinations.

For more information, check out Tundraco’s Daily Living Guide.

Source: Labor of Love

Image: Wikimedia Commons