Category: Baby

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Breast Feeding

Breastfeeding My Baby

Mother Breastfeeding her newborn

Breastfeeding: Where Do I Start?

Congratulations you have a new baby! Having a new baby is hard enough but when you choose to breastfeed you sometimes feel that you made this experience even harder.

How Breast Milk Is Made

If you’ve every been pregnant or if you are pregnant now, you’ve probably noticed a metamorphisis in your bra cups.

The physical changes (tender, swollen breasts) may be one of the earliest clues that you have conceived.

Many experts believe that the color change in the areola may also be helpful when it comes to breast feeding.

What’s going on
Perhaps what’s even more remarkable than visible changes is the extensive changes that are taking  place inside of your breasts.

The developing  placenta stimulates the release of estrogen and progesterone, which will in turn stimulate the  complex biological system that helps to make lactation possible.

Before you get pregnant, a combination of supportive tissue, milk glands, and fat make up the larger portions of your breats.

The fact is, your newly swollen breasts have been preparing for your  pregnancy since you were in your mother’s womb!

When you were born, your main milk ducts had already formed.

Your mammary glands stayed quiet until you reached puberty, when a flood of the female hormone estrogen caused them to grow and also to swell.

During pregnancy, those glands will kick into high gear.

Before your baby arrives, glandular tissue has  ,replaced a majority of the fat cells and accounts for your bigger than before breasts.

Each breast may actually get as much as 1 1/2 pounds heavier than before!

Nestled among the fatty cells and glandular tissue is an intricate network of channels or canals known as the milk ducts.

The pregnancy hormones will  cause these ducts to increase in both number and size, with the ducts branching off into smaller canals near the chest wall known as ductules.

At the end of each duct is a cluster of smaller sacs known as alveoli.

The cluster of alveoli is known as a lobule, while a cluster of lobule is known as a lobe.

Each breast will contain around 15 – 20 lobes, with one milk duct for every lobe.

The milk is produced inside of the alveoli, which is surrounded by tiny muscles that squeeze the glands and help to push the milk out into the  ductules.

Those ductules will lead to a bigger duct that widens into a milk pool directly below the areola.

The milk pools will act as resevoirs that hold the milk until your baby sucks it through the tiny  openings in your nipples.

Mother Nature is so smart that your milk duct system will become fully developed around the time of your second trimester, so you can properly  breast feed your baby even if he or she arrives
earlier than you are anticipating.

Breastfeeding is not as difficult as it looks or as you may have heard from others.

It is actually pretty easy and a very fulfilling way to nourish your newborn once you get the hang of it.

Remember as with most things practice makes perfect!

Breastfeeding is new to you and to your little one but with a little practice you two will become pros in no time!

During the first week of your baby’s life, your breasts will produce colostrum for your baby to drink.

Colostrum is rich in antibodies and aids the baby’s immune system.

It also helps him pass his first bowel movement, which is called meconium.

Meconium is black and tarry looking and is in the first few diapers after birth.

Then he begins to transition to a brown substance and after your milk comes in, it becomes a yellow, mustardy stool that is loose and watery.

Bottle-fed babies pass firmer, tarnish stools than breastfed babies.

After 24-48 hours after birth, your baby will start having wet diapers that will increase to two or three a day.

Your technique and positioning is a very important factor in ensuring that your breastfeeding experience is a great one.

There are a few different positions that can be used to make the experience more comfortable for you and baby.

Some of these positions include:

• Laying down –

Lay down on you side with pillows behind you to support your back.

Lay baby facing you with her head on a pillow your breast should be level with baby’s mouth.

Bend your legs with a pillow between your knees and then have baby latch on.

• Sitting Up –

Sit up either in bed or a comfortable chair or couch with pillows supporting your back and head.

Place a pillow on your lap and put baby on top of the pillow in your arms, you can rest your arms on the pillow to make it easier to bring baby up to your breast.

Bend your knees to make this even easier have baby latch on.

• The Clutch Hold –

This is also known as the football hold.

This position is also good when nursing twins as it allows mom to have a baby on each side.

Sit down and tuck your baby under your arm almost like a handbag.

Rest baby’s head on a firm pillow on your lap.

Ensure that baby’s feet are behind your back.

Your hand is at the back of baby’s neck, not on baby’s head.

Your arm will extend down baby’s back , guide baby to latch on

These are just a few of the positions that you can use there is also the cradle hold, clutch hold, and the transition position.

Do some research to learn these other positions to nurse your baby if you find the above positions uncomfortable.

While your baby drinks colostrum and then milk, you should listen for a pattern of “suck, suck, suck, swallow.”

This pattern will be rhythmic and there should be no “clicking” noises.

The “clicking” sound can indicate that your baby is not properly latched on and may not be getting enough milk from you.

If you start to hear this, you need to unlatch him and then reattach him.

If you continue to hear this sound after reattaching him several times, then you may want to consult a lactation consultant or your pediatrician.

After the first week of life, you should see 6-8 wet diapers each day and at least 3 bowel movements a day.

His urine should be clear and he should become more alert with each passing day.

Your baby should also be gaining weight and growing, as this is the surest way to tell that they are getting enough nutrition.

If you have two days in a row that deviates from the above indicators, then you should call your pediatrician immediately.

Breastfeeding problems, such as milk production difficulties, are not as common when using the PDF feeding method, but they do occur.

Even if you are well rested, eating healthy, have a pretty routine life, and your baby is growing and getting enough food, you still may experience a milk production issue.

Many things can cause production problems.

Here are just a few.

Some things that can affect your milk supply are:

• What mom eats
• How much mom rests and sleeps
• Her state of mind
• The age of the mom
• How many children you have
• Your desire to breastfeed
• Your nursing capabilities
• Your nursing techniques
• Baby’s latch on abilities

If you choose to breastfeed, it is very important that you take your baby for their check-ups as needed.

If you don’t, how will you know if he is getting enough milk and growing at the correct rate?

There is no way for you to tell that your child is getting enough nutrition for sure without your child being weighed.

Breastfeeding and Mastitis

Mastitis is perhaps the most distressing problem you may encounter when attempting to breastfeed.

You have been making it through the sleepless nights, the relentless feeding schedule, the diapers, the leaking…

when all of a sudden you want to stop breastfeeding.

Why?

Mastitis is the answer.

One of your breasts is engorged.

There is a slightly red patch which is painful to touch.

When the baby feeds it’s extremely uncomfortable.

After the feed your breast feels sore. You dread the next feed…

and then you begin shivering.

You think you have the flu. You have hot and cold sweats.

You have a thumping headache.

You retire to your bed and feel utterly miserable.

Visitors encourage you to give the baby a bottle so you feel like you’ve failed… but there is a solution.

In most cases mastitis affects only one breast at a time.

So what causes it?

Most often a new mum, whether or not she has previously breastfed, will suffer mastitis as a result of incorrect positioning or latching on of the baby.

Consequently the milk is not properly drained from the breast and a milk duct becomes blocked.

Other reasons include skipping feeds because you don’t want to feed in public or in front of visitors, or the baby is sleeping and you do not want to disturb him.

If you recognize the sensation of a blocked milk duct you may be able to avoid it progressing into mastitis by gently massaging your breast in the bath or shower.

Massage downwards towards the nipple.

You may feel a small lump which disappears as the duct becomes unblocked.

You can also try feeding the baby more often and again massaging the sore area towards the nipple as the baby drinks.

Another effective technique is to try expressing milk with the aid of an electric or hand pump.

However, if all your efforts are in vain and the duct does not unblock mastitis will often follow.

Mastitis is simply when the blocked duct becomes inflamed and possibly infected.

Current medical advice is to continue feeding from the affected breast even if it is infected.

The infection will not harm the baby.

However, the last thing you may want to do is to feed from the affected side at all as it is so painful.

This will only make things worse and you may end up with an abscess.

If this happens you will need to have the abscess drained by a doctor.

If you are worried about your baby drinking milk from the affected breast a good alternative is to express and dispose of the milk and to feed only from the unaffected side.

Your body will adapt. It will continue to supply enough milk for your baby from the unaffected breast.

And as long as you express regularly from the affected breast the milk supply will be maintained.

You produce breast milk on a supply and demand basis so there will always be enough.

When the infection clears up you can simply return to your usual feeding pattern.

If you do get mastitis and it does not clear up within a few hours you will probably require an antibiotic so speak to your GP.

Make sure to tell him you are breastfeeding so a suitable antibiotic can be prescribed.

To avoid a recurrence make sure you position the baby properly.

Ensure he is not sucking on just the nipple but that he has a good mouthful of the areola too.

Try to sit upright or if lying down do not lie on the breast.

Make sure the baby is tummy-to-tummy with you, his nose and mouth facing the breast and that he is not creating a blockage with his chin or a hand or arms.

Mastitis usually clears up completely within a couple of days so put it in perspective.

Don’t give up breastfeeding because you have mastitis.

Instead ensure you don’t get it again; position your baby correctly, feed on demand and avoid skipping breastfeeds.

Breastfeeding advantages

Breastfeeding has many advantages for both the baby and the mother.  There are many substances in breast milk that can’t be found in cow’s milk.

More so, there are fewer complications associated with breast milk than with cow’s milk.

It has been advertised time and again that it is best for the babies if they are breastfed for the first six months even up to two years.

So why is breast milk so beneficial for the baby?

First of all, only breast milk contains colostrums which are essential for the baby to take.

Commercially-made milks cannot simulate the colostrums made by a mother.

The colostrums contain natural antibodies and immune globulins that are responsible for keeping the baby free from illness for the first few months of its life.

Another advantage breast milk has over cow’s milk is that it allows the mother to save as cow’s milk can be expensive.

The baby can better adapt to breast milk. Their feces are not smelly and they don’t have any difficulty defecating compared to cow’s milk.

Breastfeeding has also been approved to be one of the family planning methods that a family can observe.

Since breastfeeding has been given so much importance, many women have been made aware.

However, despite the awareness, many mothers still report of breast problems associated with lactation.

These problems are most often than not, associated with improper breast feeding techniques.

In order to lower down the incidence of breast related problems due to lactation, it is important that mothers observe the proper techniques of breast feeding.

Ultimately, both the mother as well as the baby will benefit from the proper observance of these techniques.

First of all, you need to prepare your breast for milk-production.

Second and what most mothers fail to realize is how to keep the nipple clean before the baby latches on to it for feeding.

When you plan to breast feed, you should avoid using soap on your nipple.

If this cannot be avoided, your nipple should be wiped using a soft cloth soaked in clean water to make sure your nipple is clean before your baby feeds from it.

Third and perhaps the most important step is to allow your baby to properly latch on to your nipple.

You will know when your baby is latched on properly when your baby’s mouth covers the entire areola and not just the nipples.

It is essential that your baby should latch on properly so that he or she can properly stimulate the “let-down reflex” of your breasts wherein the milk will go down the ducts and out your nipple.

 

There are various nipple exercises to perform in order to prepare your nipp[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”https://peekbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2018-01-01_02-26-44.jpg” btn=”dark” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”BREASTFEEDING TIPS & ESSENTIALS THAT I WISH I’D KNOWN” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”true” hide_controls=”true” hide_title=”true” hide_fullscreen=”true”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2xlxRO-Y_Q[/video_page_section]

 

 

Categories
Baby

Babies minor conditions like diaper rash

Small baby having Irritant diaper dermatitis

Babies can have a ton of little issues, and we worry ourselves silly over them, though most are no real threat to baby’s health.

Here are a list of the most common little ailments, how to treat them at home, and when to call the doctor.

· Diaper Rash –

Diaper rash is caused by baby’s bottom being constantly exposed to wetness.

For most babies, changing their diaper a little more often and applying an over the counter cream are enough to solve the problem.

If all your measures don’t work, or if the rash looks different than a typical diaper rash, call the doctor.

The main cause of diaper dermatitis is simply contact of urine on the skin.

Between diaper changes, urine begins to break down into ammonia and other chemical by-products.

Fecal matter in the diaper area, between diaper changes, can cause the rapid proliferation of bacteria and or fungus which can infect the already irritated diaper area.

Obviously, the breakdown of urine, its continual contact with the skin, and resulting skin irritation, begins the all too common diaper rash syndrome.

It was thought that Luvs, Pampers and other disposable diapers would be a better answer than the common cloth diaper.

The new diapers were better.

The most important treatment in healing diaper rash is PREVENTION!

Prevent urine from coming into contact with the baby’s tender skin by putting a barrier on the skin that prevents urine and fecal matter from contact with tender bottoms by barrier action.

Creams like Grandma El’s, or Aquapher as it’s smoothed on baby’s diaper area to create a barrier that allows the skin to breathe, while keeping moisture and other irritants from penetrating to the skin.

This preventative action of those creams is accompanied by a healing, soothing action to stop the beginning of irritation that produces the diaper rash.

It is important that the skin is always able to breathe to induce the healing process.

Many diaper rash products are heavy creams, pastes or lotions.

While some will create a barrier to keep moisture away from the skin, these products DO NOT have the capability of allowing the skin to breathe.

Thereby, the existing moisture can not be released and the healing process is hindered dramatically.

It is recommended that you use a semi-occlusive ointment such as Aquaphor or Grandma El’s Diaper Rash Remedy & Prevention.

Young hipster father changing nappy / diaper rash to his little baby daughter

 

These are some frequently asked questions about diaper rash:

What is diaper rash?
1. It is an irritation of the skin in the peri-anal area that is most often caused by ammonia forming due to urine breakdown.

What causes diaper rash?
1. It is caused by prolonged contact of a urine soaked diaper on a baby’s skin.

The skin turns red and tissue breaks down, creating a rash.

This worsens as the skin remains in contact with urine and feces.

2. Chafing or rubbing of diaper or pull ups on the area
3. Possible allergic reaction to diaper
4. Bacterial or fungal infection in rash area
5. Allergic reaction to food can cause urine to be irritating

Who can get diaper rash?
1. It is common on babies between the ages of 2-24 months
2. It also can occur on babies whose diapers are not changed frequently
3. It may also occur on babies who are taking antibiotics or are nursing while mother might be taking antibiotics
4. It can also occur on babies as they begin to eat solid foods (allergic reaction)

What are the symptoms of diaper rash?
1. Red, irritated, and possibly warm skin in and around the stomach, genitals, and inside the skin folds of the thighs and bottom
2. Pain, burning and itching, and an unhappy baby!

Is diaper rash contagious?
1. Diaper rash is almost never a contagious skin condition

What do I do if my child has diaper rash?
1. Apply Grandma El’s Diaper Rash Remedy and Prevention at every diaper change, after cleansing the area well, and blotting dry

How can I prevent diaper rash?
1. Apply any Diaper Rash cream with every diaper change
2. Change your baby’s diaper often, and keep the area dry and clean
3. Use a gentle cleanser formulated especially for babies’ skin
4. After washing your baby, gently pat dry the area, do not rub the area
5. Make sure the diapers used fit properly, so they do not rub against the skin

How long does diaper rash usually last?
1. In general without treatment, a diaper rash will last several days if not infected. If left untreated, a severe case can last up to 10-14 days or more

What types of products are not acceptable in treating diaper rash?
1. Ointments, with the exception of Grandma El’s are occlusive, preventing skin respiration. Only a semi-occlusive ointment, works properly.
2. Creams are usually somewhat drying, have no protective activity, and allow all types of external stimuli (urine, feces, and allergens) to contact the skin causing further problems. Therefore, creams are not a good choice for a baby’s rash treatment.
3. Lotions are not protective at all, and therefore have little value in treating or preventing diaper rash.
4. Some soaps and detergents can cause allergic sensitivity to further the breakdown of baby’s delicate bottom.

Should I call my pediatrician?
1. If after several days, the rash is still visible, consult your pediatrician
2. If the rash has blisters or bumps, is oozing pus or bleeding, consult your pediatrician
3. If your baby has a rash and fever, consult your physician
4. If your baby has a rash and has urine that smells stronger than usual, or many loose stools, consult your pediatrician
5. If after properly treating your baby’s diaper rash, it still persists, consult your pediatrician

What other types of diaper rash occur if proper treatment is not begun?
Rash can further break down allowing either bacteria, or fungus to take hold and infect the skin.

Common organisms causing the infection are E. Coli (bacteria) and other fungal infections such as Candida Albicans

How can I treat diaper rash infected with bacteria or fungi?

Consult your physician immediately and he or she will prescribe a suitable anti-bacterial or anti-fungal product to eradicate the infection

What other types of diaper dermatitis exist?
Contact irritants such as urine, fecal matter, poison ivy, oak or sumac, insect bites, soap allergy, rough rather than soft clothing causing skin abrasions, infrequent diaper changes, and poor skin cleansing techniques

Is diaper rash a common problem?
Yes, diaper rash is a common problem.

To help prevent diaper rash, change diapers frequently, keep the area dry, and use no cloth diapers.

Definitely use some Rash Remedy and Prevention cream and ask your pediatrician or nurse for advise and access to medication and support.

  • Cradle Cap –

Cradle cap is an oily, yellow scaling or crusting on a baby’s scalp.

It is common in babies and is easily treated. Cradle cap is not a part of any illness and does not imply that a baby is not being well cared for.

What causes cradle cap?

Cradle cap is the normal buildup of sticky skin oils, scales, and sloughed skin cells.

How is it treated?

Cradle cap is not harmful to your baby and it usually goes away by a baby’s first birthday.

Cradle cap is the presence of scales on the baby’s scalp, and usually occurs in very young infants.

It is actually a form of dermatitis, and usually is not bothersome to the child.

For most babies, a massage using petroleum jelly followed by a shampoo will take care of the problem.

Try this at every bath until the problem stops recurring.

Cradle cap is worsened by sweating, so keep your baby’s head cool, avoiding the use of hats.

If these measures don’t work, your doctor can prescribe an ointment or shampoo.

Babies typically outgrow cradle cap within the first six months of life.

· Mystery Fever –

Nearly all babies have this at one time or another.

A low grade fever, with no other accompanying symptoms.

If your baby is under two months of age, you should seek medical attention with any fever.

Otherwise, as long as the fever doesn’t go above 102°F, you need not treat it unless it is making your baby uncomfortable or unable to sleep.

Fever is the body’s way of fighting infection, so don’t rush to treat a fever, if your baby is otherwise healthy.

Keep her cool, give her plenty of fluids, watch and wait.

Talk to your doctor or consult your pediatrician about his guidelines regarding when to call him concerning a fever.

Regardless, any fever which reaches 105° rectally, or a fever accompanied by signs of dehydration (infrequent urination, sunken fontanel, dry lips), or a feverish baby who has a stiff neck, is limp or has purple spots on the skin, is an emergency and should be treated immediately.

These are three of the most common minor baby ailments.

Though it’s comforting to know how to treat these at home, never hesitate to call your doctor if you think it’s necessary.

A Mother’s intuition is a powerful thing.

If you think something’s amiss, it probably is, so check it out, even if it’s only to satisfy your own mind.

 

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”https://peekbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2017-12-31_20-20-10.jpg” btn=”dark” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”When to Use Diaper Cream ” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”true” hide_controls=”true” hide_title=”true” hide_fullscreen=”true”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WWRMdrRiwo[/video_page_section]

 

 

Categories
Baby

pajama drama at bedtime

Happy baby sitting on bed playing with toys

Babies And Bedtime Obsessiveness

If the baby is very small, is a new born baby then it is accepted that he will get up many times at night. But in case of older babies, it is not an acceptable bedtime practice.

It is very frustrating for the mother if the baby goes to sleep after a great deal of effort and then keeps waking up frequently.

It is a big achievement for the mother if the baby sleeps uninterrupted throughout the night.

However, if the baby is not sleeping well then you must start thinking about his day time activities and how these are affecting his sleeping pattern.

The baby’s biological clock is not yet set up and if you don’t set a routine for them they find it difficult to settle down at bedtime.

Thus you must follow a fixed bedtime pattern.

They automatically begin to understand when they are supposed to play and when to sleep and so on.

When they are small we help them by setting a routine and we follow the routine as far as possible.

Little cute baby sleeping at bedtime

For instance, in the mornings they can learn that it is bath, then feed, and then play.

At evening they can learn that a story, feed and then lullaby is bedtime routine.

Thus, if you follow this pattern for a while then the kids start remembering it.

You must also keep track of the times your baby has slept during the day.

The baby may not go to bed at night because he may not be tired enough.

You must play sufficiently with the baby to make them tired by the end of the day.

You must also help them discover new things and stimulate them during the day.

If you are not doing so, then you may have to change your own habits.

The baby will then sleep soundly at night.

It varies with the age of the baby, but in any case he must not take long naps during the day.

A baby who is of few months of age should at the most sleep for half an hour.

The new born must sleep for a longer period of time.

You should not allow the baby to sleep as much as he wants during the day if you do so you are sure to have problems at bedtime.

Happy baby sitting on bed playing with toys

It is good for the baby if you can take them somewhere during the day.

You may take the little one to your friend’s house, or to a park or even to the shopping mall.

The baby loves the change and is stimulated too.

It is something great for them when they see new things and the effort is tiring for them.

Thus, they sleep well at night.

With the passage of time their bed time fussiness will go away and you will not have to bother about it anymore.

That is the best part of it all.

 

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”https://peekbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2017-12-31_12-58-40.jpg” btn=”dark” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”BEDTIME ROUTINE FOR BABY ” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”true” hide_controls=”true” hide_title=”true” hide_fullscreen=”true”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgIVD7E3xU4[/video_page_section]

 

 

Categories
Baby

An Introduction to a Baby Car Seat

Becoming a parent for the first time involves a huge amount of learning, as there are hundreds of things involved which childless people will have had no reason to come across before, nor had any incentive to learn about.

When you first learn of the impending new arrival, your thoughts will probably be taken up with decorating and equipping a nursery, buying clothes, bottles, and much more, but many people don’t think of a baby car seat until later on in the pregnancy.

It’s very important to make sure you know what to look for in a child car seat, as after all, you will need one on your baby’s very first journey, from the hospital back to home.

This being an introduction and overview to car seats for babies and toddlers, individual laws are governing the use of car seats within each State, Worldwide.

Ensure you have the correct information because you may be within the legal parameters driving in one State but then become illegal in another.

Ensure if you purchase online, the safety certificate and car seat design can be used within your own country.

Buying a second-hand car seat could be a false economy and place your child in danger.

For the baby first journey, you will need a seat which faces towards the rear of your vehicle.

Mother driving a car, having her little baby girl in a child car seat

This provides the best protection in the event of an impact for an infant who is unable yet to support the weight of their own head.

The seat will be nicely reclined backwards, providing a safe and comfortable cocoon for your baby.

It’s important to choose a rear-facing seat which is sturdy and dependable, yet light to carry.

Young babies sleep a little and often, and the last thing you want to do after finally getting your child to sleep in a car journey is to wake them by removing them from their warm and comfortable seat.

Having an easily detachable model which is light to carry means you can ferry your baby from car to house with as little disturbance as possible.

These rear facing seats are only suitable for younger infants.

Once they’ve grown to weigh around 20 pounds, or the top of their head is nearing the upper edge of the seat and thus no longer protected properly, you will need to move to a forward facing seat but ensure you are complying with your state law because ignorance offers no defense and places your child in danger.

You may only become aware of this when you are involved in an accident, at which point, it could be too late to rectify your mistake

These seats are much more upright, but better models can be adjusted to provide a more horizontal position to help your toddler sleep during longer journeys.

Because of the upright position, it’s essential that your child is able to sit up on their own before using this kind of seat.

Forward facing seats are built to last for a fair few years, and most will be good until your child reaches the age of 4 or 6.

The UK law requires all children travelling in the front or rear seat of any car, van or goods vehicle must use the correct child car seat until they are either 135 cm in height or 12 years old (which ever they reach first). After this they must use an adult seat belt.

There are very few exceptions.

For the USA and Canada, please look under  http://drivinglaws.aaa.com/tag/child-passenger-safety/ for individual state advice.

There are laws in each Australian state and territory that regulate which car seat you need for your child from birth to 16 years.

Up to six months: Your baby must be restrained in an approved rearward-facing child restraint like an infant capsule or a convertible car seat specially designed for newborn babies.

From six months to four years old: Your child must be in either a rearward-facing or forward-facing child restraint, such as a child safety seat.

From four years old to seven years old: Your child must be in either a forward-facing child restraint or a booster seat restrained by a correctly adjusted and fastened seatbelt or child safety harness.

From seven years old to 16 years old: Your child must use a booster seat or a seatbelt properly adjusted and fastened.

You can check with the road authority in your state or territory for more information.

https://www.babycenter.com.au/a1033422/car-seat-laws-in-australia#ixzz52peN8Slg

It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that children under the age of 14 years are restrained correctly in accordance with the law.

Little baby girl in a car in a child car seat

Before we finish, there are two extremely important things to bear in mind when buying a car seat.

Firstly, you should be very careful when buying one that isn’t brand new.

Although it might seem like an economy to get a second hand seat, there’s no way of knowing for sure its history.

It may have been involved in an accident at some point in the past, resulting in weaknesses that may not be visible to the naked eye.

These weaknesses could endanger your baby even in a minor accident.

You should only buy a used seat when you can be absolutely sure of the history – such as when buying off close friends or family.

Finally, baby car seats shouldn’t be fitted in front seats where an airbag is fitted.

In an accident, the inflation of the airbag could cause serious injury or suffocation to a child, so always fit car seats in the rear of the vehicle in this case.

 

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”https://peekbaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2017-12-31_11-06-08.jpg” btn=”dark” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”Car Seats Explained by Baby Gizmo” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”true” hide_controls=”true” hide_title=”true” hide_fullscreen=”true”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w6zxq_Cdp4[/video_page_section]

 

 

 

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Top 10 best child car seats By Anna Studman

 

 

Getting the right child car seat and fitting it properly is crucial for protecting your baby in a crash – if it’s not the right one, then your child could sustain far more severe injuries.

Our guide to buying child car seats tells you everything you need to know about how to choose the right one, including what are the important factors to consider and how to make sure it fits your car.

Make sure your child is protected at every stage of their life, from birth to around 12 years old, with our child car seat video buying guide..

There is a lot of evidence to show that staying rearward facing for longer is much safer and we do test extended rearward facing car seats, you can find the best and worst we’ve tested here: http://www.which.co.uk/baby-and-child…

 

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Categories
Baby

Baby Highchairs

Unrecognizable mother feeding her baby daughter with fruit yogurt

Baby highchairs are not necessary for your child if s/he is under six months of age.

Although some companies make them so they recline for infants, they are not necessary until your child is able to sit up.

Highchairs currently come with all kinds of features that are really more for the parent or caregiver than the child.

Although the nicely padded seat covers make the seats comfortable.

Some highchairs have wheels to make them easier to move however this is not necessary.

Some are now coming with height adjustable mechanisms to accommodate your child’s growth and to be able bring the baby closer to the table.

There are also adjustable foot rests to accommodate your child’s growth as well.
Most now fold for easy storage.

Highchairs now can be converted into play tables.

Some of them have an insert that fits over the tray to give you baby a place to play.

The feeding tray on many models come with an inset cup/bottle holder and some models have extra large feeding trays.

Cute little girl in the kitchen sitting in high chair eating watermelon

The base of the highchair should be broad and stable to help prevent the highchair from tipping.

If your child leans over the side the chair could tip and injure your child.

It is best then to teach your child to sit up all the time. Many highchairs are now fordable for easy storage.

When looking at highchairs some people express opinions about what the
highchair is made of. There are all wood chairs that tend to not be adjustable in height.

There are metal framed highchairs with plastic trays and their are highchairs that are plastic.

There are things you can do to make the highchair safe place to be.

Never leave your child unattended to go grab a bib, food, or answer the phone.

It only takes a second for your baby to have an accident.

You should have everything ready before putting your child in the chair.

Your child should always be strapped into the highchair without exception.

The feeding tray will not prevent your baby from slipping under it and falling to the floor and possibly incurring an injury.

If an older child slips under the tray they could get stuck and be injured.

If your high chair folds be sure that when you open it, that it locks in open position.

If the chair collapses your baby could be hurt.

This can be prevented with periodic checks of all parts of the chair.

Do not place the highchair near any place that the baby could push off from and possibly have an accident.

Also do not place your baby’s chair near any wires that can be pulled on.

All cords should be out of reach anyway.

When putting the feeding tray in place be sure to watch your child’s fingers.

They could be pinched or severely cut.

Also be sure the lock catches by tugging on the tray gently.

It will not hold your child in place but if it is loose or doesn’t catch, your child if not strapped in could fall and get hurt.

Wear or damage to the high chair can be hazardous.

If the vinyl cover over foam is torn the baby could ingest small pieces of foam.

Worn locking mechanisms could prevent the tray from staying in place.

All belts and clasps should be checked for fraying or tears.

The clasps for missing pieces or cracks.

Cracked or chipped trays could cause injury or harbor germs.

This type of check should be done before purchasing a second hand chair as well.

 

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Categories
Baby

Do we need a diaper bag

diaper bag

Let’s talk about a diaper bag, as the name suggests is quite obviously a bag that stores diapers.

However, most have enough space for a wide range of baby accessories and have proved to be a wonderful solution for busy parents.

A diaper bag stores diapers, toys, medicines, pacifiers, snacks and anything else you might need to keep baby comfortable and happy.

As a matter of fact, diaper bags are as important as a diaper — an equally indispensable part of a baby’s growing up years.

Over the years, diaper bags have evolved immensely and are now custom-made in a variety of styles and colors to compliment mom and baby on their day out.

Created primarily for convenience, some modern bags are a superb blend of logic and design, proving to be extremely functional as well as fashionable.

Traditionally, diaper bags were bulky carry-all’s, made out of plastic (meant to be leak-proof) with one huge pocket and several smaller ones.

They looked outdated and highly unattractive.

diaper bag

Now, you may come across bags made out of micro fiber with plenty of pockets.

There are others made of a combination of tweed and leather.

When buying a diaper bag, remember that the most essential convenience the bag should have is space for a variety of products beyond diapers.

Keep in mind that prices for diaper bags start low and can go high(particularly if you choose a designer bag).

Another thing to keep in mind would be the budget.

Parents should opt for bags that suit their lifestyle and those of their children the best.

Diaper bags, as we can see, diaper bags are extremely important for a baby.

They contribute to the baby’s mobility and also provide ready relief for parents who dread excess baggage while traveling with their babies.

Remember to use and store smaller diaper disposal bags, perfect for those moments when you’re at a friend’s place — or anywhere in public — and you don’t feel comfortable tossing a stinky diaper in their waste basket or can get to one immediately, or even when you’re at home, because not everyone splurges on those expensive diaper pails.

I could keep them in my diaper bag or on my changing table.

The Real Diaper Association estimates that babies will use about 6,000 diapers in their first two years of life.

Diaper bag: Woman packing her bag with child stuff.

 

 

Many children don’t train until well after their second birthday and many families have more than one child.

That’s thousands and thousands of diapers you may need to deal with in your lifetime.

https://www.romper.com/p/7-brilliant-diaper-disposal-hacks-because-it-can-be-trickier-than-you-think-2347481

 

 

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Categories
Baby

A Basic Guide to Baby Scales

Baby scales are used to measure breast milk and the weight of babies.

When baby arrives early or has medical problems, health care providers turn to baby scales for measuring breast milk intake.

The baby is weighed before and after breast feeding, and with a touch of a button, the baby scales calculates the baby’s intake.

For small babies, the baby scale can measure the difference of one-half teaspoon of breast milk.

Lack of weight gain in an infant should always be taken seriously.

Be sure to check that your baby is being weighed properly.

Weighing should always be done on the same scale because of the slight differences between scales.

It is best to use a baby scale to weigh an infant.

You also should weigh your baby once a week, because of the daily weight variation due to feedings, urination, bowel movements, etc.

If the weight remains accurate and you know that your baby is either gaining no weight or losing weight, baby should be seen and evaluated by a doctor immediately.

If baby’s weight increases but does not seem adequate, consider if your baby’s feeding is appropriate.

Mother using the baby scales in room

Are you offering food five or six times a day?

Are you feeding breast milk or infant formula to the baby?

If you’re using breast milk, does your baby seem full after a feeding is complete?

If you’re using formula, are you mixing it properly?

At 6 months old, infants need supplementary calories from solid foods.

Are you offering solid foods several times a day?

Is your baby keeping all the food down?

If everything appears normal, you still might want to get your baby examined, just to be sure that baby’s weight is okay.

All doctors will use special baby scales to monitor the baby’s weight.

If a baby has a “congenital heart defect”, it means the heart or blood vessels near the heart didn’t develop normally before birth.

Often the term “congenital heart disease” is used to mean the same thing.

Healthy babies usually double their birth weight between four and five months of age.

A baby with a congenital heart defect may grow more slowly during infancy and childhood, although the growth often varies according to the type and severity of the condition.

An eight-ounce to one-pound gain in a month may be an acceptable weight gain for a baby with a heart defect.

You will need to weigh your baby, and the pediatrician can do so for this or any other condition.

The baby is usually weighed every month on the baby scales, and the measurements will show how well your baby is growing.

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