Traveling With Babies

If you start baby travel slowly and plan wisely, both you and baby will enjoy first-class comfort. Begin with baby steps and you'll find that soon you and your little one will be able to walk, ride, or fly in the fast lane.

Day Trips

Introduce baby to travel starting with a few day-trips to a local relative or friend. Basic equipment will be a packed diaper bag, a stroller or pram (if you'll spend some time outdoors), and a car seat. Most modern car seats easily detach and convert into a baby carrier.

Be sure to pack your diaper bag with a diaper for each two hours you intend to be away from home. Pack 2 nipples for each bottle you pack, two to three receiving blankets, and an extra change of clothing for baby and an extra shirt for you. Cut down on diaper bag weight and keep things easy to find by using Ziploc bags to pack extras like nipples, wipes, and pacifiers. Pack one large, empty Ziploc for soiled items.

Overnights

For baby's first overnight trip, you'll need to extend your day-trip plan with a couple of extra receiving blankets and extra sets of clothing for baby. Even if your overnight trip is to Grandma's house, remember that nighttime sounds and perceptions may be different from those during daytime hours. A good pram with wheel locks can double as a bassinet, helping baby feel right at home and enabling everyone to sleep more comfortably through the night.

If overnight travel is a frequent part of your regular routine, consider investing in a Graco Pack 'n Play Classic Care Center. This excellent piece of baby travel equipment is a bassinet, changing table, and playpen in one portable unit that folds into a handy tote bag. There are 22 models of the Classic Care Center. With prices starting at under $50.00, you're sure to find one that's right for your little one and your budget.

Extended Hotel Stays

Many hotels stock products and equipment especially for travelers with babies, but they may not stock the brands you and baby prefer. When you make your reservation, ask for specific information on product brands and the equipment you'll need to make baby's stay comfortable. If you opt to use a hotel crib or bassinet, be sure to pack a couple of baby's own blankets, a familiar mobile, and/or other "security items".

Although your inclination may be to pack up your complete nursery, in some cases, an extended stay may allow you to pack even less than you would for an overnight trip. For instance, it would be impractical to pack a week's worth of bottles and nipples. Pack only enough for a day and leave time in your itinerary for clean-ups. When packing baby clothes, include two or three one-piece outfits that can be quickly hand washed when soiled.

You'll also want to be sure to bring along a stroller. Most contemporary strollers are lightweight and easily collapse for transport or storage. Some models are equipped with multi-position reclining seats so baby can sight-see or nap as he or she chooses. In addition, many have features like tray attachments, sun canopies, attached toy bars, and "parent" trays for your little extras.

If part of your vacation will put you in a crowd, consider a baby backpack or sling. The Baby Bjorn Carrier holds baby safely to your chest, increasing baby's sense of security as he maintains eye contact with your familiar face.

From day trips to cruise ships, how you travel with babies depends chiefly on your destination and length of stay. However developing a basic plan and adding to it as the situation warrants will quickly make seasoned travel companions out of you and your little one.

Linda is mother and grandmother of two, she is author of the <a target="_new" href="http://www.baby-strollers-guide.com">Baby Strollers Guide</a> and the <a target="_new" href="http://www.baby-product-guides.com">Baby Products Guide</a>

Babies Born During The Sign Of Gemini

Your Gemini Baby..

May 21 - June 20

Gemini children are lively youngsters who can seem to be everywhere at once! They can be precocious and are often chatterboxes. Your Gemini baby will love to explore and needs plenty of space to do so. In fact, a Gemini baby may become irritable if cooped up. Geminis are friendly and bright and alert. A young Gemini will enjoy playing with toys that involve using his hands and fingers and some Geminis may be ambidextrous.

Gemini children have lively imaginations and often live in a world where reality and imagination are mixed together. They are very inquisitive and will want to explore anything that takes their interest. Young Geminis will be interested in a wide variety of sports and will want to be friends with other children of both sexes.

When raising a Gemini you should ensure that he has the freedom to explore and investigate. Geminis need to be free to follow several interests at once and to be able to change direction. You will need to teach your child to distinguish between illusion and reality, encouraging him to tell the truth. Geminis are naturally honest but may avoid telling the truth as a defence against being misunderstood.

Young Geminis enjoy learning to communicate and can easily become bilingual if spoken to in different languages from an early age.

Typical Geminis may suffer from chest problems: coughs, colds and brochitis. They make little of any illness however, and dislike being confined to bed.

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Author: Tony Luck who runs a website about raising <a target="_new" href="http://www.baby-talk.co.uk">babies</a>.

Teething Symptoms and How to Treat Them

Teething is what your baby experiences when her first set of teeth begins to appear.

Some babies will go through this event without a problem. However, other babies will experience discomfort.

To tell when your baby is about to enter this phase of growth, this article describes the teething symptoms to be aware of. Then if you think your baby is experiencing these symptoms, some pain relieving remedies and guidelines will be presented to help you soothe your baby.

What Are The Teething Symptoms?

To determine if your baby is teething, ask yourself a few questions. Does she appear to be fussier? Is she crying at night? Does she cling to you? Is she dribbling or drooling in excessive amounts? Is she chewing on her fingers or objects?

Are her gums red, swollen or inflamed? Does she demand more breast or bottle feeding? On the other hand, does she reject breast or bottle feeding because you think the sucking is hurting her gums?

Other signs include poor appetite and interrupted sleep patterns.

What Are Some Remedies To Relieve Discomfort?

Now that you know what to look for if you think your baby is having discomfort due to teething, here are a few things you can do to help soothe her.

? Massage her swollen gums with your finger using a gentle touch (wash your hands thoroughly first).

? Place a frozen washcloth soaked with apple juice in your baby's mouth. (The washcloth must be clean before being soaked, the excess juice wringed out and tied in a knot. Put it in the freezer for one-half hour).

? Let your child gnaw on a Popsicle, a chilled but not frozen teething ring or a frozen banana.

? Give your baby Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for a few days if your baby is uncomfortable, or

? Give your baby Baby Advil (Ibuprofen) if Acetaminophen isn't working. Ibuprofen may be better because it contains an anti-inflammatory component and Acetaminophen does not.

What You Shouldn't Give For Your Baby's Teething Symptoms

If your baby is less than four months old, don't apply lotions or ointments that claim to soothe the teething pain. They may have ingredients that wash out of the mouth in a few minutes and could numb your baby's throat resulting in choking.

It doesn't matter how convincing your friends or relatives sound, but NEVER, under any circumstances, place alcohol into your baby's mouth. A &quot;dab of whiskey&quot; is NOT okay. Alcohol is a poison to a young baby. Don't do it.

Final Thoughts

Now that you've been made aware of the symptoms of teething and the ways you can comfort your baby when it happens, you should have the confidence and knowledge to handle this with ease. Good luck and enjoy the rewards of parenting!

To learn more about newborns and what you can expect during your baby's first year visit: <a target="_new" href="http://www.firstyearbabyadvice.com">http://www.firstyearbabyadvice.com</a>

Copyright ? 2005 by NetEzShop - All Rights Reserved.

This article may be republished on your website, blog, e-book, ezine, etc., on the condition that the copyright notice is not removed, the written content isn't modified and the link to <a target="_new" href="http://www.firstyearbabyadvice.com">http://www.firstyearbabyadvice.com</a> goes back to the site when clicked.

How to Meet the Dietary Needs of Babies ? Health, Palate, and Lifestyle

More and more studies are proving that food has a large impact on our overall health and may even determine which diseases and ailments we will get later in life. The more we are aware of the importance of our food choices the earlier we can teach and protect our children. Of course there is always a balance to strike between what's good for our body and what's good for our taste buds and lifestyle. Here is a description of the most important nutrients for your child's development and which foods meet their needs.

Iron<Br> Babies are born with their own source of iron, but this will be depleted after six months. Iron is absorbed best if it is from meat, however the vegetarian baby can increase iron absorption by eating foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries, spinach, tomatoes) with meals. Giving milk separately from meals also promotes absorption. Vegetarian iron rich foods include pureed apricots, molasses, fortified cereals, refined lentils, beans and green vegetables.

Calcium<Br> Breast milk or formula provides all your baby's calcium needs initially. Calcium helps teeth and bones and promotes overall strength. Good sources later include: cow's milk, fortified soy milk and orange juice, cheeses, molasses, dark green vegetables, beans, lentils and tofu.

Protein<Br> Babies require more protein than adults because of their rapid growth. A one year old child needs about 15 grams or two cups of protein per day, such as milk, cheese, beans, tofu, fish, poultry and lean meats. Combination foods such as grains (bread, pasta, rice) with beans, lentils, avocados, cheeses or tofu will provide the balance needed for vegetarian babies.

Vitamin B12<Br> Vitamin B12 is usually found in animal products, such as meat and chicken. Other non-meat sources include dairy products and eggs, as well as fortified foods such as soy milk and cereals.

Vitamin D<Br> Vitamin D is made from the action of the sunlight on the skin. Most children in warm climates receive adequate Vitamin D (20-30 minutes a day, 2 to 3 times per week). Dietary sources of vitamin D include dairy products, eggs and fortified foods. Breast milk or formula will provide vitamin D in the beginning stages. Some pediatricians recommend vitamin D supplements.

Fiber<Br> Most of your baby's fiber needs will be met with fruits and vegetables and cereal. Be careful as a diet too high in fiber and whole grains can fill up a child before their nutritional needs have been met and interfere with absorption of minerals such as zinc, iron and calcium. Too much fiber may also cause diarrhea or an upset stomach to your baby.

Zinc<Br> Zinc is important for healthy immune systems and growth. Offer your child plenty of food rich in zinc such as wheat germ, lean meats, milk, lentils, beans, peas, corn and soybeans. Zinc, like iron may be a problem for vegetarian babies because of poor absorption.

Fat<Br> Infants receive 40 ? 50% of their calories from fat, through breast milk or formula. After the first 12 months, your baby will receive fat from whole cow's milk. After age two, the Pediatric Panel of the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends reducing fat calories to 30% or less of total diet. This is the time to switch from whole milk and dairy products to low fat versions. Healthy fat sources include walnuts, canola oil, avocado, milk, cheese and yogurt.

Antioxidants<Br> These are important early on as they prevent damage to developing DNA. The average American family eats only 50% of what is recommended. Vegetables and fruits are the best source of antioxidants including: sweet potatoes, carrots, kiwi, broccoli, avocados, and blueberries.

Water<Br> Babies get water from formula and breast milk early on. However once solids are introduced they may need more liquids to aid swallowing. Water is needed for hydration as children become more active.

The nutrients listed above are good for all ages. While they contribute to your child's development they also keep adults healthy and free from diseases. You are the expert when it comes to your family and child. If you have a concern, trust your instinct and find someone to help you with health and nutrition questions and problems ? pediatricians, nutritionists, dieticians, and lactation consultants are the perfect resources. Typically steady growth is best proof that your child is getting the right amount of food.

Lisa Barnes is the founder of Petit Appetit, a culinary service devoted to the palates and health of infants and toddlers. She teaches in-home private cooking classes to parents, nannies, mothers' groups, and parenting resources throughout Northern California and is the author of The Petit Appetit Cookbook (published by Penguin Books, March 2005).

Her mission is for children to eat more healthfully, and parents to feel empowered to provide tasty and healthy food for their family. Good food should be about nutrition and taste, and bringing the family together.

For more information on Petit Appetit or The Petit Appetit Cookbook go to <a target="_new" href="http://www.petitappetit.com">http://www.petitappetit.com</a>

Using Music To Calm Your Baby

Music is a wonderful way for you to calm and soothe your baby, especially during the first year. How many times have your heard parents say that there was nothing that they could do with their crying, fussing baby until they tried music. This is because music does indeed soothe the savage beast, or in this case, the baby.

There are certain distinct sounds that have been proven to calm even fussy babies: the sounds of nature, white noise, and music. Even if your baby isn't fussing or crying you may want to use music as often as you can to encourage that feeling of calm and peacefulness. All it takes is a few minutes every day and before you know it your baby will be looking forward to hearing that certain song emanating from the CD player.

There is nothing complicated or mysterious about introducing your baby to music from day one. You don't need to search for the perfect song or a certain type of music. All you have to do is start by having your baby listen to your favorite songs and music. If jazz is on the top of your list, let your baby listen to the sounds of John Coltrane as he sits in his baby seat watching you in the kitchen. It doesn't matter if you play the schmaltzy songs of the eighties or some wicked African beat, your baby is going to listen and his mood is going to be altered by any musical sound that he hears.

Besides the music that you yourself can introduce your baby to, there are hundreds of CDs on the market today that are filled with baby songs and lullabies. At the end of the day you may want to play a CD of quiet baby songs that have a slower beat. There are so many CDs for you to choose from that you will have a hard time making up your mind. Choose something that interests you. Many baby CDs will have lullabies and faster beat songs on the same CD.

Playing music has other benefits besides soothing your fussy, crying baby. These benefits include:

?Babies are introduced to musical sounds.

?Music enhances your baby's behavior and cognitive skills.

?Relieves stress for the entire family.

?Will stimulate curiosity and an interest in music.

Take time to find a variety of music CDs for your baby to listen to. You'll soon notice which music your baby is most drawn to and can use that music when he is particularly fussy or is crying.

Emanuele Accenti is the author of the best-selling Ebook "Babies First Year - What Every Parents Need To Know" - and offers a free newsletter for new parents at <a target="_new" href="http://www.babies1styear.com">http://www.babies1styear.com</a>

Baby Shower Gift Ideas

A few guests can get together and get a big laundry basket. Place in it a long clothes line with outfits, diapers, bibs, etc. pinned to it. It can also be used as a room decoration. It has a bit of everything and something to carry it in!

Baby Quilt - here's a great gift from those that love to sew and quilt. Find an alphabet quilt pattern. Each square has a letter of the alphabet on it and a picture of an object that started with that letter. It can have numbers too. Each guest can be given/sent a square before the shower and can embroider, quilt, or embellish it according to her own taste. If the quilt is meant to be a wall hanging, guests can also attach little items like rattles and toys. Be sure that everyone signs their own block in some way and have the blocks returned by a certain date in order to have it put together. This can also be used as a decoration at the shower.

Make a scrapbook album. Take blank scrapbook pages and have everyone write down their well wishes (without Mom knowing it) for the new baby. This can be done at or before the shower and can be given at the shower or to Mom while she is in the hospital. If given after the shower, it can include photos taken there.

Pass out sheets of heavy paper decorated with baby related stamps, stickers, or pictures several lines drawn on. Have the guests write their name on the paper and then write down some baby/parenting advice. Once everyone is finished, collect them, add a cover, punch holes in it, and tie it together with some ribbon. Then hand it to Mom to read aloud. This will be entertaining as well as touching and is a nice keepsake. There is tons of room for creativity on this one.

Have each guest bring an extra gift (small item recommended) for Daddy-to-be and the host of the shower will then place them in large gift bag to present to him at the close of the party (usually after the main gifts are opened). He opens this with Mommy-to-be at home or in presence of close family or friends.

Diaper Shower ? For a second (or more) baby, consider a diaper shower. Ask each guest to bring only a package of diapers as a gift. Some guests may bring other gifts also, but Mom will end up with a mountain of diapers ? something she'll really need! Items could also include anything associated with diapering such as wipes, ointment, powder, etc.

Casserole Shower ? For the mother who has everything already, how about a Casserole Shower? Have each guest bring a casserole or other ready-to-cook meal that can be frozen or stored until after the baby is born. Be sure to have the containers clearly labeled with contents and any cooking instructions. How helpful that will be when Mom and Baby come home!

Book Party ? Have each guest purchase and give a copy of their favorite childhood book.

About The Author

Adriana Copaceanu provides people with creative gift ideas that don't blow the bank. Gift Baskets for Baby to Birthday and Beyond, are just some gift ideas you'll find at her site: <a href="http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com" target="_new">http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com</a>. Want regular reminders on gift-giving? Sign up for her free monthly newsletter at <a href="http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com/gift-news-signup.htm" target="_new">http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com/gift-news-signup.htm</a>

The Personality Traits of a Pisces Baby

Your Pisces Baby..

February 19 - March 20

Your baby will have the most winning ways of all babies, and will dazzle you with the sweetest of smiles. She will dislike order and routine and will have an amazing imagination. Some Pisces children live in a world of make believe with imaginary people to talk to, and they believe in magic, fairies and myths - don't ever tell them that Santa Claus does not exist, it will be traumatic! Young Pisceans can have a very active sixth sense. Your child may enjoy the company of adults more than that of other children. Pisces children rarely lose their temper, instead they will happily continue on their own sweet way.

Pisces children tend to avoid the limelight and do not seek to lead. Parents should not push their child into such positions. Their passive, non-aggressive natures mean that Pisces children can often be the victims of bullying. You will need to watch for this and to teach your child a strategy for dealing with such situations.

Young Pisceans seek attachments to people and animals rather than places and things. They need to be taught to believe in themselves to prevent them from becoming too clinging. Pisceans absorb all sorts of information like sponges (you may have a future Mastermind!) and need to be taught to distinguish between reality and fantasy.

Two Pisces children in the same family will get on very well together, often building an imaginary world. A Piscean parent with a Pisces child will also have an excellent relationship.

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Author: Tony Luck who runs a site offering advice to moms-to-be and new moms. The site includes the fascinating <a target="_new" href="http://www.baby-talk.co.uk/chinese_calendar.htm">Chinese pregnancy calendar</a> and there is also a <a target="_new" href="http://www.baby-talk.co.uk/conception_chart.htm">conception chart</a>.