Roseola infantum in children

Roseola is a disease very similar to German measles. Babies and young children are most susceptible to this disease. It is probably caused by a virus and is not particularly contagious.

What are the causes and symptoms of roseola infantum

Babies and young children are most susceptible to this disease. It is probably caused by a virus and is not particularly contagious. The incubation period could be anywhere between five to fifteen days. The disease usually lasts for 3 to 6 days.

Lactose Intolerance in Infants

Sometimes lactose intolerance is mistaken with food allergy in babies. Therefore, parents of babies must understand what lactose intolerance in infants exactly is. Read on to find more about the causes and symptoms of lactose intolerance in infants and what parents should do when they observe the symptoms. 

Before starting it is vital to know what exactly lactose intolerance is. Lactose is a type of sugar that is actually found in milk and other dairy products in different proportions. Lactose intolerance is found in some infants and they are unable to digest lactose. It is a matter of deep concern as this is the major source of energy for infants especially in their first few months.

Milk is very essential for healthy bones as well as nerve tissues. So, babies suffering from lactose intolerance have frequent watery stools and the child gets deprived of the major source of energy. When the child is deprived of energy, the energy is provided to him by the stored fats of the body and the result is weight loss.

First Aid For Electric Shock

Children, especially toddlers, love sticking their little fingers anywhere and everywhere, especially into plug points and sockets. The human body is a good conductor of electricity, and contact with a live power source can cause significant burns, or may interfere with the heart's electrical system.

Everyone has received minor electric shocks sometime or the other, which are no cause for concern. But once in a while, a lose wire or a faulty household appliance can shock the life out of you - literally. Most of the fatal electric shocks happen at home.  

• Here's what you can do if it happens in your home.  
• The victim usually gets stuck to the source of the electricity, and it is important that you first separate him from the electrical source. 
• Turn off the power supply switch and disconnect the plug. It's best to simply turn off the main power supply or pull out the fuse. Often, simply turning off the switch may not stop the flow of electricity. 
• In certain circumstances it may be quicker to simply pull the victim away from the electrical source. 

Foreign Objects

"Foreign" means "originating elsewhere" or simply "outside the body." Foreign bodies typically become lodged in the eyes, ears, nose, airways, and rectum of human beings. Both children and adults experience problems caused by foreign objects getting stuck in their bodies. Young children, in particular, are naturally curious and may intentionally put shiny objects, such as coins or button batteries, into their mouths. They also like to stick things in their ears and up their noses. Adults may accidentally swallow a non-food object or inhale a foreign body that gets stuck in the throat. Even if an object like a toothpick successfully passes through the esophagus and into the stomach, it can get stuck inside the rectum. Airborne particles can lodge in the eyes of people at any age.

Foreign bodies can be in hollow organs (like swallowed batteries) or in tissues (like bullets). They can be inert or irritating. If they irritate they will cause inflammation and scarring. They can bring infection with them or acquire it and protect it from the body's immune defenses. They can obstruct passageways either by their size or by the scarring they cause. Some can be toxic.

Children and Flu

Influenza is an acute infection caused by any of three types of viruses (A, B, or C). Type A strains are associated with the most severe disease. Flu is an acute infection of the airway tract in the nose and throat that can sometimes spread down into the lungs. Flu in adults is a frequent cause of acute respiratory illness. Flu, however, affects people of all ages. Children are among the groups most at risk for developing flu and its complications and are more likely to spread the infection to others. Flu season begins every year mainly in late fall and early winter and usually spreads widely. The peak season for the flu in the northern hemisphere is from November through March.

The flu is caused by one of three types of influenza viruses. Types A and B are responsible for the yearly flu epidemics, and type C causes sporadic illness. Type A is further divided into different subtypes based on the chemical structure of the virus. Influenza is highly contagious. The virus is spread when someone either inhales infected droplets in the air (coughed up or sneezed by an infected person) or when someone comes in direct contact with an infected person's secretions (for example, kissing, sharing of handkerchiefs and other items, and through use of objects such as spoons and forks).

Entertaining Your Newborn

You're home from the hospital, and for the first few weeks, you're main goal is to survive; little to no sleep, healing from labor, house guests, no time to eat, and of course, you're trying to figure out how to care for this tiny, helpless little being. But you do survive! And a few weeks later, once you get into the groove, you start wondering what you're supposed to be doing with your bundle of joy when she or he isn't sleeping, eating, crying, or filling that little diaper.

Stimulating your baby's senses is an important task for you, just as all the other essentials. Babies learn about the world through us, so we need to present it to them. Also, experts suggest that showing your baby different colors and shapes help them to develop their sense of vision. So one way you can entertain your baby is to hold different toys close to them. Remember, infants can only see about 12 inches in front of them, so make sure they can see what you're holding.

Overcoming breastfeeding problems

It is common for some moms to have some problems with breastfeeding. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Most problems can be easily treated or solved. If you have a breastfeeding problem, contact a lactation consultant. This is a person who specializes in breastfeeding. 

Breastfeeding (nursing) your baby can be a comfortable and relaxing experience, But it takes time and practice. Start breastfeeding your baby in the hospital, right after birth. Request the help of a lactation consultant or nurse to get you started. Read about breastfeeding before your baby is born.

NIPPLE SORENESS

It is common to have some pain or discomfort when your baby first latches on and begins feeding in the first few days or weeks. Some breastfeeding mothers describe nipple soreness as a pinching, itching, or burning sensation. Over time, you should feel little discomfort or pain when breastfeeding.

Nipple soreness may be caused by many things, including:

• Poor feeding techniques
• Wrong position of the baby when breastfeeding
• Not taking care of your nipples

Making up a bottle

Make a fresh bottle of formula every time you feed your baby. At first, this can seem fiddly. So take your time, measure everything carefully, and once you've made up a few feeds, you'll find it becomes second nature. 

What do I prepare for my baby's feed?

Before you make your baby’s feed, follow these hygiene steps: 

• Sterilize your baby’s feeding equipment. This includes bottles, nipples, lids, retaining rings and caps.

• Clean and disinfect the work surface you're going to use.

• Wash and dry your hands.

• Put a sterilized bottle on the clean surface.

• Use sterilized tongs to place the sterilized nipple, lid, retaining ring and cap out ready. Health Canada recommends putting all the items in a pot of water and bringing in to a rolling boil for two minutes.

Once you've done this, you’re now ready to make your baby’s feed. 

Preparing baby formula

Even when tins and packets of powdered infant formula are sealed, they can sometimes contain bacteria such as Cronobacter sakazakii (formerly known as Enterobacter sakazakii) and, more rarely, Salmonella. Although these bacteria are very rare, the infections they cause can be life-threatening.

To reduce the risk of infection, make up each feed as your baby needs it, using boiled water at a temperature of 70ºC or above. Water at this temperature will kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.

Make up feeds, one at a time, as your baby needs them. Always use boiled water at a temperature of at least 70ºC, but remember to let the feed cool before you give it to the baby. Bacteria multiply very fast at room temperature. Even when the feed is kept in a fridge, bacteria can still survive and multiply, although they do this more slowly. The risk of infection increases over time so that is why it is important to make up the feed only as your baby needs it. 

Sterilising bottle-feeding equipment

During the first year of your baby’s life, he’s at his most vulnerable to illnesses. If you don’t sterilize your baby’s bottles, viruses, bacteria and parasites can gather on his bottle and in his milk and make him ill. Your baby could develop anything from mild thrush to a more serious bout of vomiting and diarrhea.  It's not possible or practical to create a totally germ-free environment for your baby. But by sterilizing your baby’s feeding equipment, you can reduce the risks while he's at his most vulnerable.

There are several methods you can use to sterilize your baby’s feeding equipment. Microwave and electric sterilizing are the most popular. However, for times when you don’t have access to electricity, use traditional methods, such as boiling and cold water sterilizing.

Shock in children

Shock is a general term used to describe the clinical condition that results from damage to any or all tissue and/or organs in the body. The physiological response to such damage, often stemming from loss of blood volume or other trauma, results in a cascade of events that can lead to multiple organ system failure and, in some cases, death. Acutely ill children are particularly vulnerable to shock because their small body size limits the amount of reserve they have, which may be insufficient to meet the physiological demands of the trauma or illness.

The four basic types of shock include hypovolemic, distributive, cardiogenic and obstructive shock.

1. Hypovolemic shock

Hypovolemic shock generally results from diarrhea, vomiting, poor fluid intake, hemorrhage, heat stroke or burns. The leading cause of shock worldwide is hypovolemia—or loss of blood volume—due to diarrhea. Accordingly, hypovolemic shock is a major cause of infant mortality.

Clinical signs of hypovolemic shock include rapid breathing and or heart rate, abnormally low blood pressure, weak peripheral pulses, cool pale skin, increased urine output and changes in mental status.

Choking Prevention for Children

A child may be choking and need help right away if he or she: 

• is unable to breathe

• is gasping or wheezing

• is unable to talk, cry, or make noise

• turns blue

• grabs at his or her throat or waves arms

• appears panicked

• becomes limp or unconscious

In those cases, immediately start abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich maneuver), the standard rescue procedure for choking, if you've been trained to do it properly. 

Gastroenteritis in children

Gastroenteritis is a bowel infection which causes diarrhea and sometimes vomiting. Diarrhea is runny, watery bowel motions. The vomiting may settle quickly, but the diarrhea may last up to 10 days. Bouts of gastro can cause dehydration which can be dangerous for very young babies.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis in babies 

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are the classic signs of a stomach bug. Your little one will probably have a decreased appetite, which is good because when the stomach is that upset, whatever goes in almost inevitably comes out. Kids who have a stomach bug may also have a low-grade fever, abdominal pain and muscle aches.  

Tests for gastroenteritis in babies

Most of the time, the “stomach flu” is diagnosed based on baby’s symptoms. (Is he throwing up frequently? Having lots of loose, runny stools? He probably has a stomach bug -- especially if symptoms subside in a day or so.)

If your child’s symptoms aren’t improving and you take him in to the doctor, they may collect a stool sample, which can be sent to a lab to determine the cause of infection. A stool sample can be helpful in ruling out a bacterial or parasitic infection (which could cause similar 

Vomiting in children and babies

In most cases, the vomiting will last no longer than one or two days and is not a sign of anything serious. The most common cause in both children and babies is gastroenteritis. This is an infection of the gut usually caused by a virus or bacteria. It also causes diarrhea. Your child's immune system will usually fight off the infection after a few days. Also, babies frequently vomit when they swallow lots of air during feeding. However, persistent vomiting can sometimes be a sign of something more serious, such as a severe infection or even meningitis.

The most important thing you can do if your child is vomiting is to make sure they keep drinking fluids. If your baby is vomiting, carry on breastfeeding. If they seem dehydrated (see box, above left), they will need extra fluids. Ask your pharmacist if they would recommend oral dehydration fluids for your baby. Oral dehydration fluid is a special powder that you make up into a drink, which contains sugar and salts in specific amounts to help replace the water and salts lost through vomiting and diarrhea. Brands include Dioralyte, Electro lade and Dehydrate  Children who are vomiting should keep taking small sips of fluid so they don't become dehydrated. They can drink water, diluted squash, diluted fruit juice or semi-skimmed milk.

Causes of vomiting in children

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis (an infection of the gut) is a common cause of vomiting in children, and usually goes away after a few days.

Food allergy

Food allergies can also cause vomiting in children. Watch out for certain foods that may bring on the vomiting, and see if your child is better after avoiding this food.

Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that causes dizziness and a feeling of spinning as well as nausea and vomiting. Your GP will be able to prescribe medication to relieve your child's symptoms while their immune system fights off the infection, which may take a few weeks.  

Appendicitis

Appendicitis can cause vomiting in children, as well as extreme pain in the tummy. It is a medical emergency and means your child's appendix will need to be removed. You should dial 999 for an ambulance if you think your child has appendicitis. Click on the above link to find out more about it.

Poison

Accidentally swallowing a drug or poison can cause vomiting in children. If you think this is the case, call your GP immediately or take them to your nearest accident and emergency department. 

Causes of vomiting in babies

These include:

• Swallowing lots of air during feeding
• Gastroenteritis (an infection of the gut)
• A food allergy or milk intolerance
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux, which is when stomach acid escapes back up the gullet
• Too big a hole in the bottle teat, causing your baby to drink too much milk
• Accidentally swallowing a drug or poison
• A birth condition where the passage from the stomach to the bowel has narrowed and food cannot pass through easily, causing projectile vomiting. This condition is called congenital pyloric stenosis.
• A blockage, such as a hernia, in your baby's bowel. They will vomit frequently and cry as if in great pain. 

  

Baby Care Topics: Feeding your baby|What should my baby wear? | Bathing and Washing your Baby | Overcoming sleeping problems in your baby




Your Baby's First Year: Week by Week

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Giving Your Baby a Sponge Bath

For the first week or two of your baby's life, you won't have a chance to find out if he enjoys the bath. Until the umbilicus falls off (and a circumcision, if any, heals), avoid giving your baby a bath. Instead, you must clean him without immersing his belly (and perhaps his penis as well) in water. The best way to do this is a sponge bath.

Are You Ready?

Because you want to get your baby clean, dry, and warm again as quickly as possible, have everything ready before you begin the sponge bath. Here's what you may need to have at hand:

• A towel on which your baby can sit or an empty portable tub in which he can sit

• A source of warm water (a sink or a large pitcher filled with warm water)

• Non-detergent soap

• Baby-safe shampoo

• A fine-toothed baby comb

• Baby-safe nail clippers

• Cotton balls and alcohol (until the umbilicus has fallen off)

• A washcloth (the softer the better)

• Cotton balls for washing the eyes (not necessary, but some babies like it)

• A towel, or even better, a hooded towel/robe

• Diaper cream

• A clean diaper

• A fresh set of clothes or pajamas

Infant Bathing Safety Tips for Parents

Baby's bath time should be a time of fun and happiness for parent's and baby alike. With the proper precautions, baby bathing can be done safely and effectively without jeopardizing the health of your little on. Infant baths can get pretty tricky since baby's do seem to get really slippery when wet, but making sure that you follow some safety advice will assure that your baby can enjoy his bath and you can enjoy it with him.

Baby bath safety is very important as the water poses some extreme safety risks to an infant. An infant could drown on as little as 2 tablespoons of water when ingested improperly into the lungs. For this reason it is important to be well informed about the hazards or water and the need to be safe during baby's bath time every single time he takes a bath. Do not think for a second that baby's can be left alone in the tub...children drown in the tub and babies can drown even faster.

Topping and tailing

For the first week you may find that 'topping and tailing' is the easiest way to bath your baby. 'Topping and tailing' simply means carefully washing your baby’s face, neck, hands and bottom, morning and night, plus cleaning the nappy area as necessary. On days when you don’t bath your baby you’ll need to wash his face, bottom, hands and folds of his skin once a day. An ideal time to do this is during changing.

• Make sure the room is warmed to a suitable temperature for your naked baby, around 29 degrees is good
• Have a bowl of boiled and lukewarm, not hot, water on hand and a supply of cotton wool
• Clean your baby’s bottom as usual and take a ball of cotton wool dipped in the water and gently wipe around the genitals (changing the cotton wool often), particularly in the folds and creases of the skin
• Gently wipe each eye from the inside out using a new piece of cotton wool for each so any infection won’t be transferred from one to the other
• Clean around the nose, mouth and the outside of the ears using a new piece of cotton wool for each, not forgetting behind the ears

Tips for Washing Your Baby

This is something that many new parents dread. They are often afraid they will do something to hurt the baby when it comes time for his/her bath. The truth of the matter is washing your baby is quite simply as long as you follow some important safety steps and prepare everything ahead of time. Try to stay calm during bath time and realize that your baby is not a porcelain doll. Parents have been handling their babies since the beginning of time and you will be just fine giving your baby his/her bath. It is important that (provided there are two parents present) both parents participate in the first few baths together. This is a good way to support each other and to make sure that everything goes smoothly. The following tips and suggestions may help make bath time much more enjoyable for Mom, Dad and baby.

Purchase a Baby Bath

When you bath a tiny baby it is much easier if you have a small bathing chair that can easily rest in the sink or bathtub. While it is possible to bath a newborn without one, it is important to keep in mind that wet babies are very slippery. It tends to be a lot easier if they are sitting in a baby bath. Once your baby reaches 4 or 5 months old and can sit up easily on his/her own then you can graduate to a baby bathing ring. These rings have suction cups that help the ring stay in place.

Dressing and undressing a newborn

Newborn babies will generally need dressing and undressing on a daily basis, sometimes 2 to 4 changes in a 24 hour period.

Reasons for a change of clothes

Baby can need a change of clothes for many reasons, including:

• When bathing.
• If they become excessively wet or soiled from leaking nappies.
• Regurgitation (or vomiting) of milk after feeding. (Having a spare cloth nappy or hand towel handy may help to avoid the need to change.)
• Adding or taking off layers of clothing due to weather changes.
• Going on a day’s outing and dressing up for the occasion.

Most babies hate being undressed and will cry in protest when you take all their clothes off. After a while they will adjust to this 'changing' routine. Make sure you change your baby on a soft surface and keep the period of time they are naked to a minimum, so they don't become too cold. The room should be a pleasant temperature and the doors and windows closed to stop droughts.

Have all the clothes you need within arm's reach, with the items you'll need first on top of the pile. Stretch any neck holes open wide and gently guide them over your baby's head, taking care over your baby's nose and eyes. Then gently guide their arms into any armholes. Talk to your baby and maintain eye contact while you're changing to keep baby distracted and happy.

You should change your baby on something at a comfortable height. If changing them on your bed, kneel on the floor. It is important that you avoid overstretching and twisting your body, especially for the woman in the early weeks after the birth. Never leave your baby unsupervised on anything that is off the ground. If you need to get something, answer the door or telephone, or rescue a toddler, always take your baby with you.

Tonsillitis in Children

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils are 2 large lumps of tissue in the back of your child's throat. They help fight infection. Tonsillitis may be caused by a bacterial or a viral infection. Viruses that cause a cold or the flu may cause viral tonsillitis in children. A virus that causes mononucleosis (mono) may also lead to tonsillitis. Group A streptococcus is the most common bacteria that causes tonsillitis. It also causes strep throat. Tonsillitis can spread from an infected person to others through coughing, sneezing, or touching. The germs can spread through kissing or sharing food and drinks. Germs spread easily in schools and daycare centers and between family members at home. 

Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis

• Fever and sore throat
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Cough or hoarseness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Yellow or white patches on the back of the throat
• Bad breath
• Rash on the body or in the mouth

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby. Sudden infant death syndrome is sometimes called crib death.

The exact cause is unknown, but sudden infant death syndrome may be associated with abnormalities in the portion of an infant's brain that controls breathing and arousal from sleep. Although all babies are vulnerable, certain sleep environments have been linked to increased risk.

Perhaps the most important way to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome is to place your baby on his or her back to sleep, on a firm crib mattress covered by a fitted sheet. Nothing else should go in the crib with your baby — no blanket, pillow, bumper pads or toys.

A combination of physical and sleep environmental factors can make an infant more vulnerable to SIDS. These factors may vary from child to child.

Physical factors 

Physical factors associated with SIDS include:

• Brain abnormalities. Some infants are born with problems that make them more likely to die of SIDS. In many of these babies, the portion of the brain that controls breathing and arousal from sleep doesn't work properly.

• Low birth weight. Premature birth or being part of a multiple birth increases the likelihood that a baby's brain hasn't matured completely, so he or she has less reliable control over such automatic processes as breathing and heart rate.

What causes a low milk supply during breast-feeding?

Various factors can cause a low milk supply during breast-feeding, such as waiting too long to start breast-feeding, not breast-feeding often enough, and use of certain medications. Sometimes previous breast surgery affects milk production. Factors such as premature birth, maternal obesity and insulin-dependent diabetes can also affect milk production.

But take heart. Although many women worry about low milk supply, insufficient breast milk production is rare. In fact, most women make one-third more breast milk than their babies typically drink.

Breast-feeding nutrition

If you're breast-feeding, you're giving your baby nutrients that will promote his or her growth and health. You might have questions, however, about what foods and drinks are best for you — and how your diet might affect your breast milk and your baby. To get these extra calories, opt for nutrient-rich choices, such as a slice of whole-grain bread with a tablespoon (about 16 grams) of peanut butter, a banana or apple, and 8 ounces (about 227 grams) of fat-free yogurt.

What foods should I eat while breast-feeding?

There's no need to go on a special diet while breast-feeding your baby. Instead, focus on making healthy choices to help fuel your milk production. Opt for a variety of whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables. Wash your fruits and vegetables to reduce exposure to pesticide residue. Eating a variety of different foods while breast-feeding will change the flavor of your breast milk. This will expose your baby to different tastes, which might help him or her more easily accept solid foods down the road. To make sure you and your baby are getting all of the vitamins you need, your health care provider might recommend continuing to take a daily prenatal vitamin until you wean your baby.

General Safety tips in children

Child Safety Seats:

• Choose the correct child safety seat for your child's age and weight.
• Register your child safety seat by filling out the manufacturer's registration card and mailing it in. This is the only way to be notified if there is a recall or problem.
• Install your child safety seat correctly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions EXACTLY or better yet, have your child safety seat installed by a National Highway Traffic & Safety Administration (NHTSA) certified installer. A seat that is not installed correctly will not offer your child the best protection in the event of a crash.
• Always buckle your child into a child safety seat EVERYTIME your child rides in the car-no exceptions. The harness should be snug and the chest clip should be at the level of the child's armpits.
• Infants should ride in a rear-facing seat until they are AT LEAST 20 pounds and one year-longer if possible.
• If your child safety seat is in use and a crash occurs, retire it gratefully and purchase a new one. Damage to the seat may not be visible and can render the seat unsafe.
• NTSHA estimates that proper use of car seats could prevent up to 71% of deaths and 67% of injuries sustained in accidents.

Baby safety tips in Nursery

When selecting a crib:

• Don't buy an older, used crib. It could be missing parts.
• Corner posts should not extend more than 1/16th of an inch above the end panel.
• Posts should not be more than 2 & 3/8ths inches apart to prevent the child from getting stuck.
• All hardware should be tight fitting and secure.
• The mattress should fit snugly in the crib frame to prevent the child from getting stuck and suffocating.

• Avoid placing a crib near windows. If a crib is near a window, make sure that drapery and mini-blind cords are OUT OF REACH to prevent strangulation.
• Keep the crib away from lamps or other electrical appliances. Lamp cords should be wrapped so as not to leave excess length available for a baby to chew or pose a strangulation hazard.
• Drapery and mini-blind cords present a hazard in every home. Unfortunately, cords left in their reach have strangled many young children. Blind and shade cords should be wrapped around wall cleats, out of reach of toddlers.

Baby safety tips in Bathrooms

• Never leave standing water in the tub or sink. It takes very little water to create a drowning hazard.

• NEVER leave your child unattended in the bath. A good rule of thumb is to keep one hand on your child at all times while bathing. If you must leave the room, wrap your child in a towel and take her with you.

• Reduce your hot water heater temperature to 120 degrees. A baby's skin is more sensitive than an adult's. What is warm to us can scald a small infant.

• Install a spout cover to protect from falls.

• Use a non-slip mat or use non-slip stickers in the tub to prevent falls.

• Remove items from around the tub ring (shampoo, conditioner, razors). When bar soap becomes small enough to fit into a toddler's mouth, it becomes a choking hazard.

Baby safety tips in Kitchen

• Install quality safety latches on drawers and cabinets that are within a child's reach.

• Keep all sharp utensils, wastebaskets, and household cleaning products in a latched drawer or cabinet.

• Appliance cords should not dangle from the counter-top. A curious child could pull on that cord and bring a heavy appliance onto his head or body.

• Cook using the back burners of your stove and turn pot handles toward the rear of the stove so your child can't pull hot food on himself. Remove stove knobs to prevent curious little fingers from turning on the knobs. If you remove the knobs, keep one handy to use while cooking, and store in a drawer when not in use.

• Dishwashing detergent should only be poured immediately before you wash dishes. A swallow full of detergent is a hazardous and deadly snack.

• If your kitchen has a trash compactor, keep it latched. If it is key operated, keep the key out of reach from your child.

Demand feeding

Feeding on demand simply means feeding your baby whenever he signals that he's hungry — usually by crying or sucking on his hands — rather than according to a set schedule. The terms "on cue" or "ad lib" are a better way to describe feeding according to your baby's needs than "demand" feeding. The latter can mislead people into thinking that feeding a baby whenever he's hungry will turn him into a demanding little tyrant!

During the early weeks of breastfeeding, you may feel as though you're nursing your baby constantly, and wonder if your baby really needs all that nursing. Keep in mind that young babies have tiny stomachs — about the size of a walnut. Easily digested breast milk quickly fills their little stomach and is absorbed, so it's no wonder they need to eat again relatively soon.

If your baby seems hungry soon after eating (fussy, sucking on his fist, or rooting at your breast), go ahead and feed him again. Keep in mind, too, that babies are just hungrier on some days than on other days and will want to eat more than usual. These days are called "frequency days" and are thought to precede growth spurts.

HOW TO INSTILL EAR DROPS IN CHILDREN

Ear infections are a common childhood ailment. The proper technique will ensure the drops go into the ear without causing your child discomfort.

How to give ear drops

• Shake the bottle and remove the cap.
• Your child needs to have their head tilted to one side. (They could rest their head on a pillow.)
•  Put the tip of the dropper just inside the ear hole. Try to avoid touching the nozzle on to the ear. Gently squeeze the drop(s) into the ear.
• Your child should keep their head tilted to one side for a minute or so.
•  Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue after each use.
•  If you think the drops didn’t go into the ear, you can repeat the process but do not try more than twice.
•  Try to avoid the tip of the bottle touching any part of your child’s ear if possible.
•  Wash your hands again with soap and hot water.

How to give your child eye drops

Instructions on giving your child eye drops

• Wash your hands.
• Shake the bottle.
• Remove the top from the bottle and throw away the plastic seal.
• Get your child into any of these positions to give the eye drops:
• tilt your child’s head back
• lay your child flat on his or her back
• ask someone to hold your child in a safe position
• wrap your baby or young child in a light blanket or sheet to keep his or her arms and legs still
• Gently pull down your child’s lower eyelid.
• Avoid touching the dropper against your child’s eye, eyelashes or any other surface.
• Hold the dropper above your child’s eye and squeeze one drop into the lower eyelid.
• Release the lower eyelid and let your child blink a few times to make sure the drop is spread around the eye.
• Wipe away any excess with a clean tissue.
• If you are using another type of eye drop, wait a few minutes before giving it. This will stop the first drop being washed out by the second before it has had time to work.
• If your child is getting very distressed

Giving medicine to children

General Tips for Making the Medicine 

Make sure your child is standing or sitting up at least a 45-degree angle when taking any medicine. This reduces the risk of choking.

Give liquid medicine along the side of the mouth, about halfway down. If it goes directly to the center of your child's palate, it will trigger a gag. Place tablets on the back of the tongue or they will be spit out.

Disguise a medicine's bad taste when possible. Favorite vehicles include applesauce, yogurt, pudding, smooth peanut butter (for kids 18 months and older), and jam. For the most resistant cases, try soft candy pieces, ice cream, or chocolate syrup.

Mixing a medication with a liquid such as juice, formula, or milk can be problematic because a significant part of the medicine will be left coating the cup, glass, or bottle. If you use a liquid to dilute medicine, use a small amount and be sure all of it gets into your child.

Skin rashes in babies

It's normal for babies to develop skin rashes from as early as a few days old, as their sensitive skin adapts to a different environment. Most rashes are harmless and go away on their own.

However, if your baby has developed a rash and seems unwell, or if you're worried, see your GP to find out the cause and for any necessary treatment. It's especially important to be aware of the warning signs of meningitis.

This guide may give you a better idea of the cause of the rash, but don't use it to diagnose your baby's condition by yourself. Always see a GP for a proper diagnosis.

Sharing a bed with your baby

Many parents who share a bed with their baby – also called co-sleeping – believe it helps their baby feel safe and secure. They like the close bodily contact, feel that it’s rewarding and satisfying, and believe it’s good for their relationship with their baby.

Some parents also bed-share because they find it more practical. Breastfeeding during the night can be easier – the hungry baby can be fed then settled back to sleep quickly.

For these reasons, advocates of co-sleeping feel it can be worth making the adjustments necessary to learn to sleep with a small child. The most important thing is that bed-sharing is done safely.

During pregnancy when baby has spent nine months inside the body with a constant supply of food and comfort, it seems strange and unnatural to infant when he/she is suddenly separated from you and compel to sleep on his own without food or comfort for long periods. Only through co-sleeping and breastfeeding give the same condition that your baby has been used to during pregnancy. This combination supports the development of a healthy child hence it continues throughout much of the world. Modern parents often feel guilty or make excuses that bed sharing perceived their child as weak. Some parents are worried about that co-sleeping makes baby habitual to and spoiling their baby. 

Recovering from birth

Right now, you are focused on caring for your new baby. But new mothers must take special care of their bodies after giving birth and while breastfeeding, too. Doing so will help you to regain your energy and strength. When you take care of yourself, you are able to best care for and enjoy your baby.

Getting rest

The first few days at home after having your baby are a time for rest and recovery — physically and emotionally. You need to focus your energy on yourself and on getting to know your new baby. Even though you may be very excited and have requests for lots of visits from family and friends, try to limit visitors and get as much rest as possible. Don't expect to keep your house perfect. You may find that all you can do is eat, sleep, and care for your baby. And that is perfectly okay. Learn to pace yourself from the first day that you arrive back home. Try to lie down or nap while the baby naps. Don't try to do too much around the house. Allow others to help you and don't be afraid to ask for help with cleaning, laundry, meals, or with caring for the baby.

Teething Symptoms

The vast majority of babies sprout their first teeth when they're between 4 and 7 months of age. An early developer may get his first white cap as early as 3 months, while a late bloomer may have to wait until he's a year old or more. (In rare cases, a baby's first tooth is already visible at birth.) Whenever the first tooth makes its appearance, celebrate the milestone by taking pictures and noting the date in your child's baby book.

Teeth actually start developing while your baby's in the womb, when tooth buds form in the gums. Teeth break through one at a time over a period of months, and often — but not always — in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. They may not all come in straight, but don't worry — they usually straighten out over time.

newborn baby head pillow

Straight after birth, your baby's head may have gotten a bit out of shape. Elders may advise you to let your baby sleep on a horseshoe shaped pillow to make his head rounder. However, there are important reasons why this is not a good idea. Traditional horseshoe shaped pillows are filled with mustard seeds or ray. Modern versions are usually filled with sponge chips and thermocol balls. If the pillow tears, the seeds, sponge or thermocol can spill out. If your baby puts even a small piece in his mouth or nose, it can pose a choking hazard. This is why experts recommend not keeping any pillows in your baby's cot. 

Also, if your baby's head is firmly placed in the middle of a horseshoe shaped pillow, it will be difficult for him to turn his head to the side in case he spits up milk or vomits. This can make your baby choke on his own vomit. 

Infant Baby Headbands

Our infant and newborn headbands are made with the tiniest of princesses in mind, but with the capability of sizing flexible enough to fit any size girl!  All of our newborn headbands and Infant baby headbands are made to fit baby's sweet head perfectly!

  

We make all of our elastic headbands with matching shimmer elastics or pretty stretch lace.  These thin and stretchy headbands are perfect for newborns and infant baby girls!  We've also found that older teen girls prefer thin stretch bands similar to those headbands offered here, so we've extended our sizing to accommodate them.  

How to trim your baby's nails

While long nails may look great on adult women, they have no place in a newborn baby’s life. Long nails can cut the baby’s skin as well as the parent’s skin because of how fine and sharp they can become. In addition to this, it is always a good idea to get the baby used to having his or her nails done while they are young rather than exposing them when they are older to the procedure when they are older. This can reduce the stresses that they feel when they are getting ready for their lives in the world.

Cutting a newborn baby’s nails can be extremely stressful for the parent and for the baby. Even if this is not the first time that the parent has cut a newborn baby’s nails, it is still an anxious moment as the parent does not want to hurt the baby. For the baby, the sensation of the nail clipping is new and can be scary. Often, the nail clippers are cold and not as sharp as they should be. This cold sensation can upset the baby and if the nail clippers are dull, and then the nail could be pressed out of shape, making for a difficult cut and an unpleasant sensation for the baby.

Nail care for newborns

Newborn fingernails and toenails are usually soft and flexible. However, if they are ragged or too long, they can hurt the baby or others. It is important to keep your baby's nails clean and trimmed. Newborns do not yet have control of their movements. They may scratch or claw at their face. Newborn babies will usually have long fingernails (and toenails) at birth. Many parents are concerned about their baby scratching themselves with their fingernails, and may use cotton mittens to prevent this. A newborn baby's fingernails are generally quite soft and flexible, and may be able to be gently peeled off. However, as your baby grows older, their nails will usually become harder. At some point you will probably need to trim them.  

• Clean the baby's hands, feet, and nails during regular bathing.
• Use a nail file or emery board to shorten and smooth the nails. This is the safest method.
• Another option is to trim nails carefully with baby nail scissors that have blunt rounded tips or baby nail clippers. Do NOT use adult-sized nail clippers. You could clip the tip of the baby's finger or toe instead of the nail.
• Since baby's nails grow pretty quickly, you may have to cut the fingernails at least once a week. You may only need to cut the toenails a couple of times per month. You can trim your baby's fingernails with a special pair of baby scissors .Avoid using clippers, as these can be hard to manoeuvre accurately, and may injure your baby, if they move their hand unexpectedly. It is probably easier for one person to hold the baby, while the other one trims the nails, but you can place your baby in their bassinette, or bouncer, if you prefer. 

• Make sure your baby is calm and relaxed (possibly after a feed). Cut your baby's nail straight across and avoid cutting down the sides of the nails, as this can encourage ingrown nails and infections. Some parents will use a fine, soft emery board to smooth off any rough edges, although this is not absolutely necessary.

How to make your own baby food

Making your own baby food is easy, efficient, and economical. Instead of spending money on prepackaged baby food, you can use fresh produce, grains, and meat that you have on hand. Best of all, you'll know exactly what you're feeding your baby.Going the do-it-yourself route also gets your baby used to eating the same food the rest of the family does, a strategy that may pay off during the picky toddler years.

Preparing the food

• After washing, cook vegetables – and fruits like apples and prunes that need to be softened – before pureeing or grinding. Bake, boil, or steam the produce until it's soft. If you boil the food, use as little liquid as possible and add some of the leftover liquid when mashing the food (or add it to your family's soup stock).

• Peel and pit the produce if necessary and strain out any seeds. Some fruits and vegetables don't require any liquid – simply mash, add a seasoning or two, and serve. For others, you may want to add a little liquid (breast milk, formula, or water) as you puree or grind to get the consistency you want. As your baby adapts to solid foods, you can add less liquid.
• Grains like quinoa or millet can also be pureed or ground in a food mill. Cook them first according to package directions. For older babies, whole grains make fabulous finger food.

• To prepare meat and poultry, remove the skin and trim the fat before cooking. Then puree the cooked meat in a blender or grind it up in a food mill with a little liquid. For older babies, simply chop the meat into very small pieces.
• If this all sounds like a lot of trouble, keep in mind that "homemade baby food" can be the very same food you feed the rest of your family. It's an old-fashioned idea that deserves to be resurrected. Simply use your food mill or other tool to puree, blend, or mash some of the same food that your family is having for dinner.
• Soups and stews, for example, can be processed and fed to your baby. The same goes for most healthy foods your family might eat. Pack empty baby food jars with extra so you'll have a meal for the next day.

Sterilising bottle-feeding equipment

During their first year of life, babies are at their most vulnerable to viruses, bacteria and parasitic infections, which can lead to anything from a mild attack of thrush to the more serious condition of gastroenteritis. This is an illness similar to food poisoning, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and subsequent dehydration. 

Before sterilization was the norm, thousands of infant deaths were caused by gastroenteritis problems. The cases we see now, which are rarely as serious, are often connected to inadequate sterilizing procedures. It is not possible or practical to create a totally germ-free environment for your baby but you can reduce the risks during his vulnerable first year. 

Cleaning your baby's equipment 

It is not enough to wash bottles in soapy water alone, although before sterilizing they need to be cleaned thoroughly along with the teats, so that every trace of milk is removed. Make sure that the detergent you use has been carefully rinsed off and run water through each teat to ensure the hole is not clogged with milk curds. Using salt is no longer recommended for the cleansing of silicone teats but is perfectly safe with latex ones. Just tip a little salt into the teat, grind the teat between your fingers, and then rinse thoroughly. Check teats and bottles carefully and throw out any with splits or cracks because damaged surfaces can also harbor bacteria.

expressing milk using a breast pump

Once your milk has “come in” you may find it easier to use a breast pump, either manual or electric. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding use, cleaning and sterilization.

How to use a hand pump

• Stimulate the nipple by hand and start the flow by hand expressing.
• Place the pump shield centrally over your nipple and press it firmly into your breast.
• Use the pump gently but quickly at first - this helps with the let down reflex and mimics what your baby does when they first start a breastfeed.
• Once the milk is flowing use a slower speed but stronger suction.
• There should be no pain or discomfort.

How to use an electric pump

Double pumps are recommended for longer term expressing. It has the benefit of being time efficient and also helps with your milk supply. For mothers of twins or other multiples it is also recommended.

Infertility and assisted conception

Many couples believe that it is easy to have a child and are often surprised when the woman does not fall pregnant as soon as they start trying for a baby. The chance of getting pregnant in each menstrual cycle (each month) is calculated to be one in four for an average fertile couple. However, it may take a long time to conceive, even if everything is normal. Eight out of every ten women trying for a baby will fall pregnant within the first year. Women who do become pregnant without any medical assistance generally do so within two years of trying. It is common for couples to seek help and advice if there is difficulty conceiving. Overall, around 15 per cent (one in six) of all couples will seek help. The point at which they may want to seek help will depend on various factors. For example, if they are over 35 years of age or if they have any worrying symptoms, such as infrequent periods, the couple should seek help after about six months of trying.

What happens during normal conception?

1. The woman

Ovulation is the end of a complicated series of events leading to the release of an egg from the ovary. If that egg is fertilized by a sperm and implants in the lining of the womb (endometrium), a pregnancy has started. All of a woman's eggs will already be present when she is born. From the early years of childhood, she starts to lose eggs, but it is calculated that a woman aged 50 still has about 1000 of her eggs left.

Anemia during pregnancy

Anemia is a lack of red blood cells, which can lead to a lack of oxygen-carrying ability, causing unusual tiredness. The deficiency occurs either through the reduced production or an increased loss of red blood cells. These cells are manufactured in the bone marrow and have a life expectancy of approximately four months. To produce red blood cells, the body needs iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. If there is a lack of one or more of these ingredients, anemia will develop.

Red blood cells are the cells that circulate in the blood plasma (fluid) and give blood its red color. Through its pumping action, the heart propels the blood around the body through the arteries. The red blood cells obtain oxygen in the lungs and carry it to all the body's cells. The cells use the oxygen to fuel the combustion (burning) of sugar and fat, which produces the body's energy. During this process, called oxidation, carbon dioxide is created as a waste product. It binds itself to the red blood cells that have delivered their load of oxygen. The carbon dioxide is then transported via the blood in the veins back to the lungs where it is exchanged for fresh oxygen by breathing.

SHAPING UP AFTER DELIVERY

Every woman who's ever had a baby knows how difficult it is to take off that extra weight. Though it is tough but it is possible with little patience and regular workouts. This is no small task, but by starting your fitness regimen and starting a modified exercise program for the first time, you can improve the tone of your body and get back your previous figure. However before you decide to begin, you should check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

It is necessary to know that during pregnancy:

• A woman's waist expands 50 inches
• Her skin is stretched by 400%
• Her hips widen half a foot 
• Her fat cells grow to 125% their original size -- all 30 billion of them
• Your Post pregnancy Exercise Program 
• Both fit and unfit new moms should ease into an exercise routine by taking 20-minute walks three days a week, for example. You should slowly increase the duration or distance of your regimen each week. Initially you can begin walking and working on exercises for your abdomen, lower back and pelvic muscles. During the first six weeks, you can start walking to increase your circulation and get some general exercise. Do what you can handle, even if it's only for 10 to 15 minutes. Increase the time duration as you get stronger. After you've received your doctor's approval, move on to 50 to 60 minutes of continuous walking, for four to five days a week. Of course, you can take your baby along in a pram/a stroller if you have to. Once you can walk comfortably for 20 minutes, begin to increase your speed.

Expressing milk by hand

Using your hands to express your breast milk often takes a little while to master. Some women find that hand expressing their milk comes naturally; others find it an awkward and slow process. Many women find it is initially frustrating and tedious, but after being shown the proper technique and practising, they eventually get the knack. Being able to hand express is a useful skill to have. However, if you are finding hand expressing frustrating, tiring or unproductive, you may wish to try using a breast pump. A breast pump may also be a better option if you are needing to express for every feed, or you may choose to hand express at some times, and use a breast pump at others. 

The advantages of hand expressing are: 

• It costs nothing.
• It is convenient, no breast pumps to prepare, or sterilize.
• It can be done anywhere, any time.
• It can be used to express small amounts of milk to relieve overfull breasts (for comfort) or to gently rub milk onto sore nipples.
• It involves skin to skin contact, which stimulates a greater milk production and helps to trigger a let-down reflex.

Breech birth

 A breech presentation is defined as the condition in which the baby is in longitudinal lie and the podalic pole presenting at the pelvic brim with the head occupying upper pole of uterus. A breech birth is the birth of a baby from a breech presentation. In the breech presentation the baby enters the birth canal with the buttocks or feet first as opposed to the normal head first presentation. In breech presentation, fetal heart sounds are heard just above the umbilicus.

A breech position means that your baby is in a bottom-down position inside your womb. Usually your baby will settle into a head-down position in your pelvis around the eighth month of pregnancy. A head down position of the baby inside your womb is called a vertex or a cephalic position. 

When labor, nearly all (96 per cent) babies are lying head down in the uterus, but a few (about 3-4 per cent), will settle into a bottom-first, or a breech position.