5 Baby Shower Food Ideas Anyone Can Make

Planning a baby shower? You have got all the details taken care
of by now, or have you?

What are you feeding your guests?

No doubt, you could cater the food and be done with it. That
would cost quite a bit of money on all the caterer's service.
That would eat into your baby shower budget. Why not use that
money on personal gifts for your guests instead. Besides, home
cooked food is better and cheaper than anything mass produced
right?

You could always make it a pot luck. Each guest could bring his
or her culinary speciality. But some people might not like it,
or they may not have the time to spare.

Or you could go the extra mile and prepare the feast yourself.
It is cheaper than catering. You get to show off your culinary
skills (even if you think you don't have any) and present your
guests food you prepared yourself (which by the way, will be
scrumptious. Just see the recipes below).

Short of time? Prepare a quick and scrumptious meal at home
that should tickle their tastebuds and fill their stomachs, to
some extent, that is.

Here are 5 relatively easy items you could include in your
party spread.

1. Chicken Wings.

The trick is to marinade them overnight. Put the wings in a
large bowl and cover them with marinade. You could buy bottles
of marinade from the supermarket, or you could make your own
with a family recipe from grandma or mom. Either way, seal the
bowl and put it in the fridge overnight to let the marinade seep
in. Then bake or grill the wings. (about an hour or less)

One of my favorites is very oriental. For 1 kg wings, mix 4
tablepoons light soya sauce mixed with 1 tablepoon of sugar, 1
tablespoon oyster sauce and 1 small piece of crushed ginger in a
bowl. Then add the wings and leave to marinade.

2. Pizza Sandwich Fingers

This is my favorite buffet recipe for when I have to prepare a
feast for a large group of people in a hurry. These colorful
slices taste as good as they look. They make great buffet
additions.

Take a loaf of bread (or two or as many as you need to feed
your guests.)

Remove the edges.

Cut each slice of bread into 4 strips.

Put coarsely chopped, bite sized pieces of salami, green
capsicum, button mushrooms and tomatos on each strip. Then
sprinkle cheddar cheese and morazella cheese over the
ingredients. Grill in a toaster oven. The effect is a spread of
green (capsicum) / red (tomato) / yellow (cheese) open
sandwiches that add to the festive mood.

3. Tuna On A Ritz

Get a box of Ritz biscuits or salted crackers.

Mix a can of tuna with a can of cream of mushroom soup. Then
spoon half a teaspoon of this mixture onto each biscuit. (I
learnt this from my old friend Serene Woon.) Another great
instant buffet offering.

4. 1 large pot of beef stew and french loaves.

The bread and stew should fill their stomachs. You don't want
your guests to go home hungry, do you?

Stir fry in a tablespoon of olive oil, in a large pot, 1
chopped onion, 3 minced cloves of garlic, 1 kg beef cubes, 3
large ripe tomatos, 3 large potatos (diced) 3 large carrots
(diced), 2 stalks of celery and a box of button mushrooms.Throw
in a handful of oregano leaves, a sprinkle of crushed black
pepper and a pinch of salt. Then fill the pot with boiling
water. Let it simmer for 3 hours to draw out the flavour,
topping up with boiling water as necessary. Add sugar and salt
to taste. When you are satisfied with the result, serve with
warm bread.

An easier way to make the stew is to dump everything into a
crockpot (no oil needed) first thing in the morning, add boiling
water and let it simmer until the guests arrive.

(Personally, I would marinade the beef in 3 tablespoons of
light soya sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar and a little crushed black
pepper corns overnight before using the beef for the stew. Then
skip the salt and sugar.)

Warm the bread in the oven while the guests arrive. After take
the crockpot out to the buffet table, present the warmed bread
in a basket and serve your guests.

Let your guests dip the bread into little bowls of stew.
Delicious!

5. Salad

Wash and chop up 1 large head of lettuce, peeled japanese
cucumbers, 1 bunch of baby spinach, 3 large ripe tomatos, button
mushrooms, chick peas and your favourite veggies. Toss in salad
cream and serve chilled.

For a small party, you could use the recipes that come with gt
express mentioned in the resource below for quick and easy to
make dishes, Cut into smaller servings and serve as part of the
party buffet.

About The Author: For easy, delicious dishes, get gt express
from http://www.allkitchen.info/gtexpress.php . Baby shower
gifts for guests at
http://www.babymusthaves.com/Shopping-Gifts-Baby-Showers.htm
from http://www.babymusthaves.com

Five Tips On How To Make Bath Time Fun And Safe For Your Baby

There are babies who love the feel of splashes of water, who
enjoy taking a bath and look forward to this activity everyday.
On the other hand, there are those who are terrified just at the
sight of the tub, who are scared to be dipped in the water.

Whichever your kid is, there are certain ways you can do to
ensure that bath time is safe for your kid and fun for both of
you.

Tip Number 1: Talk with your kid gently while you bathe him.
More often than not, he will be interested in what you say even
though he does not yet completely understand you. Talking to him
will also give him an assurance that he's safe and there's
nothing to be scared of. Say things like, "I'm now washing your
hair with this sweet smelling shampoo!" or "Now it's time for a
rub-a-dub. Let's go soap this cute little body of yours!"

Tip Number 2: Sing to your kid or play nice and fun songs while
he takes a bath. Kids love music especially those upbeat ones.
Once he's learned to associate these fun songs and also your
singing which he loves no matter if it's out of tune or not with
taking a bath, he'll eventually love and enjoy these baths.

Tip Number 3: Give your kid bath toys to play with during his
tub time. A squeaky toy like a rubber duckie or a bath puppet
like Baby Einstein puppet would definitely keep your baby
entertained while you clean him from head to toe. This will show
him that baths are not scary but are also a fun time to play.

Tip Number 4: Use child-safe and durable bath tubs. And always
be careful in handling your kid during baths. Remember, babies
are slippery when wet. It's good if you have someone to assist
you during the bath and help you get hold of your baby
especially if he's the energetic kind who loves to kick around
and splash water on your face. It's also smart to place the tub
on top of a rubber mat to prevent the tub from slipping.

Tip Number 5: Bathe your kid in lukewarm but not hot water.
Adjust the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees
Fahrenheit or 48.9 degrees Celsius. Water that is too hot may
scald or burn your baby and water that is too cold might scare
him.

It's important that you encourage your kid to love taking a
bath because this is a very important part of personal hygiene
and good grooming. Positive outlook on baths and good bathing
habits are contributory to good health.

Give him toys that will incite his creative imagination.
Building blocks are ideal toys for this age, not only because it
works to improve fine motor skills but also encourage your kid
to use his imagination to build. Stacking toys such as stackable
cups and pails are also exciting for your kid and will also be
good for the stimulation of his creativity.

About The Author: For more tips and information about Baby
Einstein Puppets , check out http://www.thekidstoystore.com

Baby Gift Baskets: Not Just For Baby Showers

When we think of a baby gift basket being presented, we think
of the baby shower. Certainly the baby shower is one of the
first gift-giving opportunities for the new parents, but baby
gift baskets can be given and are more than appropriate for the
many other gift giving occasions that are in store for the new
little one.

Just to make it comprehensive, let's start with the baby
shower. Most of the time, this is a first child for the couple
and they need practically everything. The expense of a new baby
after it arrives can be daunting, especially if the parents need
to add items such as baby formula, baby food and diapers to
their weekly shopping list. Along with all of the weekly
supplies, there are regular doctor visits that need to be
afforded and other incidentals that the baby will need. The baby
shower is a perfect opportunity to help lessen the burden
financially so the parents can concentrate on enjoying every
minute with their precious new bundle of joy.

Use the baby shower to give a baby gift basket of items that
they will definitely need. Sure, it may be more fun to buy that
6 foot tall giant stuffed panda bear, but what are they going to
use it for? More than likely, it will become a new sleeping
place for the family pet. The baby shower is an opportunity to
ease the overwhelming sense of responsibility and stress that
the parents may be beginning to feel as the day of their baby's
arrival looms closer and closer.

Gift baskets, such as traditional layettes or an assortment of
one-piece undershirts or even a crafty display of diapers will
be most appreciated. If you are especially talented, present the
new parents to be with an array of hand made baby items. Hand
sewn baby quilts, crocheted or knitted booties and receiving
blankets and little toys are not only practical, but because
they are hand made, they could become family heirlooms that get
passed down to grandchildren. If it is appropriate, this is also
a wonderful opportunity to give a hand made baptismal or
christening set of a gown, booties, cap and blanket.

Just because the baby shower has passed doesn't mean that the
opportunities for giving baby gift baskets has passed with it.
Once the baby arrives is a wonderful excuse to come bearing a
gift. Now that the baby's gender is known, if it wasn't before,
and he or she has a name and is becoming his or her own
personality makes putting together a gift even more fun. Now is
the time when you can personalize your gift giving and your gift
basket can reflect the new child that is actually here.

Now that the baby has arrived, there are still plenty of times
that a gift basket can say just the right thing. If the baby is
going to be christened, that could be a wonderful time for a
small gift basket of Bible story board books, religious jewelry
or keepsakes. You could also include a small photo album for the
parents to put all of the photographs from the day.

Still the opportunities to give baby gift baskets are upcoming.
Throughout the coming year, the baby will be experiencing all
kinds of firsts. Every holiday that arrives will be a magical
one for the new family. It is always joyful when you can share
in these marvelous times with them.

Imagine the possibilities of creating a gift basket for baby's
first Christmas. You could include items such as a tree ornament
that represents something that is special to the baby. Or a
small nativity set or a Santa's village that is made of larger
soft-sided components. If the baby's first Christmas is a few
months after their birth, this would then be a good time to
purchase warmer sleepers for them in their larger size. If the
baby is eating solid food now, a gift basket of baby foods,
cereals, snacks and formula would really help the parents out
especially at this Christmas time. This could also be the
perfect opportunity to begin the baby's movie collection by
starting with some of the Christmas classics like Rudolph, The
Red-Nosed Reindeer and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

Another big holiday for the new baby is Easter time. What a
more perfect opportunity to give a gift basket than at Easter.
Depending on the child's age when he or she celebrates their
first Easter, you could give appropriate snacks, toys or stuffed
animals. This may also be a good time to buy a new spring outfit
for them or new shoes. Don't limit your imagination. Find a
beautiful Easter basket that the child could use every year and
fill it with everything you can imagine a child of that age
appreciating.

Two other holidays that you may not necessarily consider giving
a gift basket on are Halloween and Independence Day. These are
two holidays where you could really come up with a gift basket
that is very unique and special. Again, always shop for items
with the baby's current age in mind and have fun. For Halloween,
you could include a small costume or stuffed animal. And of
course, don't forget to add some "treats" that the baby could
enjoy. Pop them all in a plastic pumpkin bucket and you are all
set. Independence Day gift baskets for the baby could include
red, white and blue toys and stuffed animals and some safe
celebration toys that do not have any small parts on them like a
kazoo or small drum or trumpet. If the child is old enough, he
or she will love to add their own noise to the celebration.

And finally, we come to the day of celebration that is all
their own, their first birthday. By this time, many babies are
crawling and some are even walking. A gift basket at this time
could include a small scooter and walker combination that allows
the child to push the vehicle or ride it. Many of these are in
the shape of small cars, bikes, trains and trucks and have a
compartment on them that opens up. Fill this compartment with
other items that a one year old would love.

Little ones love to push items like small cars and many are
just beginning to experiment with crayons and scribbling. You
can find special markers and pad sets that only write if the
special marker is used on the special paper. The parents will
especially appreciate the thoughtfulness.

Another great gift is a child-safe soft padded plastic mini
photo book. These albums usually hold about eight photographs
and are equipped with a handle so the toddler can carry it
around. Inside it holds pictures of the people who are special
to baby, so he or she can open it up any time and see the faces
of those they love. This is a wonderful gift especially if the
baby has grandparents that live too far away to visit on a
regular basis.

As you can see, the life of a new baby is basically one
gift-giving experience after another. Use as many opportunities
as you can to give the little one a unique gift basket and fill
the child's first year with lots of mementos and small presents.
After all of this, if you weren't a member of the family
already, you will be now.

About The Author: Jacoba Fenny offers a complete line gift
baskets and baby gift baskets for every occasion at
http://www.onesourcegiftbaskets.com.

How To Buy A Baby Crib

Buying a baby crib is often the first big decision you will
make as a parent. Choosing a crib must be taken seriously.
Safety is the most important consideration. Cribs manufactured
in the United States have strict safety standards, which have
been in place since 1973. These standards are updated as needed.
Keep these things in mind when you buy a baby crib.

Design Safety is the number one concern with design. Be sure
that the slats of the crib are no further apart than 2+3/8
inches. The head and foot ends of the crib should not contain
cutouts. A baby can get caught in these cutouts and may be
unable to get free. The head and foot ends are best made of
either solid design or slats.

Most cribs have adjustable sides and mattress positions to make
it easier to pick up the baby. While these are helpful when the
child is tiny they can pose problems later on. The distance
between the top rail when it is raised and the mattress when it
is in its lowest position must be no more than 26 inches. Once
the child can pull himself up always put the mattress in the
lowest position possible.

The mattress must fit snugly into the crib frame for safety
reasons. A space as small as an inch can pose a possible safety
hazard for infants. Remove any plastic on the crib and mattress.
Check that the hardware is tight and that no sharp edges
protrude.

Check the display model for sturdiness. If you will be
assembling the crib at home look at the display to ensure that
you know the proper way it should work. The crib should come
with the proper hardware and complete detailed assembly
instructions.

Features

Here are some additional features to consider when looking to
buy a baby crib.

Teething Rail – These are attachable plastic covers that can
attach to the top rails of the crib sides. Teething rails can
help prevent children from chewing on the wood keeping them safe
while protecting the crib.

Bumper Guards – Bumper guards are padded and fit snugly against
the sides of the crib. The purpose of the bumper guards are to
protect the baby from hitting into the sides of the wood or
metal crib as they roll. There is much discussion about the
safety of bumper guards. Be sure to choose bumper guards that
fit tightly with no loose material that could pose a choking or
suffocation hazard. Choose Velcro fasteners to avoid loose
hanging ties.

Rolling Casters – These are often quite useful particularly if
you need to move the crib around from time to time. Be sure that
the casters are attached securely and have a locking mechanism
so that they can be locked into position to prevent rolling when
the crib is stationary.

Additional Safety Information Always register your crib with
the manufacturer by filling out and sending in the product
warranty card. Keep the crib information including model number,
manufacturer and date and place of purchase in a file along with
the instruction manual. This will allow you to more easily check
for product recalls.

About The Author: Article written by Randi Reese, she offers a
wide selection of baby cribs at
http://www.cribsandtoddlerbeds.com

Babysitter Safety

You and your spouse finally got theater tickets to see your
favorite show. For dinner beforehand, you made reservations at a
restaurant that is usually impossibly busy. You even purchased a
new outfit to wear for your big night out on the town. The only
thing left to do is find a suitable sitter. It seems like an
easy task, but it is by far the most important part of your
evening out. The results of choosing an inappropriate babysitter
can range from mildly annoying to unthinkably tragic.

Before You Hire Babysitter:

• Use a friend or family member if possible. Try to get
recommendations from friends who have kids. Always check the
references of a new babysitter.

• Do not hire a sitter under age 12. Also, keep in mind that
the younger the children or the greater the number of children,
the older your babysitter should be.

• Make sure your babysitter knows CPR and first aid. Recommend
that young sitters take the American Red Cross babysitter class.

• Meet the babysitter in advance. Let her spend time with you
and your children in advance to observe how she interacts with
your kids. In many cases, it's a good idea to hire a potential
candidate as a "mother's or father's helper" first. That way,
she can get used to watching the kids while you are still home.

Babysitter Safety – What They Need to Know

When you leave the house, babysitter safety should be your
primary concern. Arm your sitter with the information necessary
to ensure your children's wellbeing. Make sure your babysitter
knows the following things:

• Parents' full names and cell phone or pager numbers

• Children's full names and ages

• Address of the house including the nearest intersections – in
case it's necessary to give directions to emergency workers

• Phone number of the house

• Name and phone of family doctor

• Emergency numbers including the National Poison Control
Center hotline: 1-800-222-1222

• Location of first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and flashlights

• Contact information of neighbors or relatives

• Food and drug allergies

• Where you will be and when you will be home

Babysitter Safety – Common Sense

Babysitter safety also includes the precautions your sitter
should take to protect the children from outside dangers. In
addition to knowing medical information and contact information,
your babysitter should also:

• Keep all doors and windows locked
• Turn on outside lights when it gets dark
• Check on sleeping children about every 15 minutes
• Never leave the house with your children unless you gave
permission
• Refuse to let anyone in the house unless she personally knows
the individual
• Call 911 if someone suspicious comes to the door, or if your
sitter suspects a prowler
• Never identify herself as the babysitter on the phone
• Make sure she has safe escort home at the end of the evening

Consider babysitter safety to be the key ingredient to a
relaxing night out with your spouse. After you pick a great
babysitter, listen to what your children say about the sitter
when you get home. Your kids will give you a good idea about the
level of their safety while you were gone.

About The Author: Ralph Winn with 35 years in the Security
industry. http://www.homesecuritystore.com

Infant Massage and Your Baby

There is a growing trend towards infant massage. Some mothers are learning these special techniques, or taking their children to baby classes where they can learn the proper movements.

There is actually proof that these rubdown techniques not only relax your baby, but more importantly, aid in their development into intelligent, happy children who are fully aware of the world around them.

The Benefits

Although it is a new trend, studies have been conducted by education experts to see how infant massage influences kids and mothers. There is a wide range of physical, mental, emotional and developmental benefits to the practice. These studies also show that these techniques help kids to interact with adults more easily.

Physically, these specific movements stimulate babies' nervous systems. In particular, it speeds up the process called myelination, which promotes communication between the brain and body. This is very important in early growth, because it means that they will be better able to develop control over their movements.

Another benefit is that it helps with circulation and respiration. When the blood flows through the body more easily, it helps to get rid of toxins, and regulate all the body's important functions. Better circulation also means better sleep.

Studies have shown that these techniques help babies' immune systems develop. There has been a link observed between this technique and the production of white blood cells that help to fend off diseases. Infant massage has been particularly helpful to babies that suffer from life-threatening hereditary diseases.

Baby massage also helps with digestion. A good, routine session will help a baby get rid of gas, reduce constipation and prevent colic.

Helping Your Baby Relax

Encouraging relaxation is one of the most important overall benefits of the practice. The kneading movements reduce muscle tension and anxiety. This contributes to better sleep, which is as important to a baby's health as a proper diet.

Infant massage not only relaxes kids, but aids in their development. In order to develop into healthy toddlers, babies need lots of stimulation. This can be stressful and difficult for them, but these proper stimulation techniques get them acclimated with regular daily doses.

This helps them get ready for the stimulation they will receive as they become more used to the world around them. It helps get them started reacting with their world, an important first step in the development of a young child.

When we start teaching our toddler important life skills, this experience with stimulation gives them a head start. Babies who have had a regular massage routine often show traits of intelligence and calmness in early life. Studies have shown that these children also show lower levels of hyperactivity when they are toddlers and young kids.

Finally, the practice helps the child bond with caring adults. As a parent, learning these techniques can be a great way to help your baby develop. You can also take your baby to classes, where a masseuse who has undergone training can show you how it is done. This is a wonderful way to get your child used to adults and the world around them.

Infant massage, either done at home with the right techniques, or in classes where they have specialized training, has wonderful benefits for a new child and parents.

A growing trend among parents wanting healthier babies is a technique called infant massage. It provides benefits to the child, including nervous system development and better digestion and sleeping habits. Mellow Mommy offers many ways for you to master these techniques. http://www.mellowmommy.com

Nine Easy Ways to Find Cheap (and Free) Baby Stuff

Raising a baby can be expensive, but, with a little online
savvy and some help from your friends, you can save bundles
and even find some free baby stuff. Here's how to save
money on baby and find the best baby freebies on the web.

Baby Freebies Online

Just as having a baby can be an expensive proposition for
you, it can be a profitable one for retailers and
manufacturers. Many companies will give away things to
expectant and new moms in the hopes of earning your
business for a long time to come.

Here's how to get free products, samples and coupons from
the most trusted baby brands.

You can typically find free samples and discount coupons by
navigating your browser directly to a manufacturer's
website. To find these websites, do an online search for
your favorite brands of formula, diapers, and baby foods.

You can also often get free trial subscriptions to leading
parenting magazines. At the time of this writing, you can
get a free 6-month subscription to American Baby magazine
and a free 12-month subscription to Baby Talk magazine
directly at the publications' websites.

A word of caution about signing up for baby freebies,
newsletters, and sweepstakes. Make sure you read the fine
print, as well as a site's privacy policy before you enter
your name and email address on the company's registration
form. Each time you are signing up for something, you are
probably being put on a mailing list. You may want to have
a secondary email address that you use only on registration
pages and, if the page asks you if you would like
additional mailings from partners, opt out.

It's a good idea, too, to check the URL of the freebie's
registration page before you fill it out, to make sure you
are on the website of the manufacturer or publisher. Third
party sites, especially sites devoted to providing
freebies, may be in the business of collecting and selling
your personal information.

Savings on Diapers and Formula

These are two items you will probably spend the most money
on before your baby becomes a toddler. Breastfeeding is, of
course, the cheapest way around buying infant formula, but
it's just not an option for everyone. Here are the best
ways we have found to save.

Search Online.
See if you can find products cheaper online. Do a search on
froogle.com for bulk groceries or formula. This site, run
by Google, allows you to comparison shop across lots of
different sites with just one search. And check prices at
Amazon Grocery, too, which will ship these products to you,
just like any other Amazon purchase. Shipping is often free
for orders of $25 or more.

Join the Club.
Ask at the customer service desk of your local grocery
store to see if they have any kind of Baby Savings Club.
Some of the leading grocer chains offer additional savings
for these types of purchases.

Discount Baby Furniture and Gear

When it comes to baby furniture and baby gear, you can save
a lot simply by knowing where to look.

Let Your Friends Know What You Need.
The best way to get free baby stuff is to ask your friends
and family for anything they might be hanging onto that
they don't need anymore. Even your friends whose kids are a
bit older may still have some items in the attic.

Have a Baby Shower.
Baby showers are a great way to get exactly what you need
for the new baby. Even better, your guests can share more
ways on how you might be able to save money on baby items
in your particular area.

Join Moms Groups.
Join parenting groups both in your local area and online.
These are fantastic resources for free information and a
daily or weekly dose of sanity. Plus, once you get to know
other moms in your area, you can swap secondhand baby
clothes.

Join a Freecycling Network.
Freecycling allows you to give away things you don't need
while taking things you do. Do a Google search to find a
Freecycle Network in your area, or visit Freecycle.org and
browse the groups or enter your town into the search box.
Once you find a local freecycling group, you can usually
post your own needs and you find a lot of good things,
completely free.

Shop for used items.
Local consignment stores, thrift stores, and garage sales
are a great place to find gently used baby furniture or
gear. Check the newspaper for this weekend's garage sales
or monitor an online garage sale announcement service. Go
to Yahoo Groups and enter your city and "Garage Sale."

A note about buying baby items secondhand: If you buy used
toys or baby gear, make sure they still have safety labels
attached. Also, it's a good idea to always buy a new car
seat for your child. You don't want to take a risk by
getting a secondhand car seat that may have been in an
accident.

Simplify
The most important thing for our family when our kids were
small was to consider carefully what it was we really
needed. When we were excited about having our first child,
we felt like we wanted one of everything. But we found that
some gear was not necessary at all, and some of it just got
in the way.

The simple approach is sometimes the best, so take a little
time with each buying decision. If there is a piece of
furniture or a baby item that you feel you really need, see
if you can get it gently used. It's better on the
pocketbook and the environment.

It's also tempting to invest in things the baby will need
when he or she has grown older. You can save money by
waiting until your baby actually needs a bigger, better
stroller, for example, to see both what you can afford and
what kind of features are truly the most important to you.
It helps me to look at it this way: When you save money by
not buying things you really don't need, you'll have more
money to put aside for your child's future.

With babies, as with life, the simple approach is often the
best. The simpler your life is, the more time you have to
enjoy your child.

Susie Cortright is the founder of http://www.momscape.com
and http://www.susies-coupons.com. Visit her site today to
find direct links to diaper and formula savings, coupon
codes for baby gear and more:
http://www.momscape.com/articles/save-money-on-baby.htm

Baby Cribs In Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports Best Baby Products gives information about the
best baby cribs based on their tests and product reviews. A baby
crib is one of the most important items that new parents
purchase for their child. The baby spends most of its time in
the crib, particularly as a newborn.

Consumer reports on baby cribs advises that the safest cribs
are those which use the least loose fitting bedding such as
blankets and pillows. These items cause the most risk to babies
due to the possibility of suffocation and SIDS hazard.

According to consumer reports, the best cribs are those that
are most simple. The first decision is whether to get a crib
with a drop side. The drop side allows for easy access to the
baby but if installed incorrectly can pose a threat to the
infant. Some cribs have two drop sides. To check the structure
of the crib Consumer Reports suggests that you check the
in-store model of the crib before making any decisions. The crib
sides should lock into place and should not move down without
excessive pressure applied. You should not be able to move the
sides without at least ten pounds or more of pressure.

The best cribs, according to consumer reports on baby cribs,
are those that have the simplest lines. When purchasing a new
crib be sure that it made well and that all the slats are held
tightly in place. Avoid cribs that have cutouts on the head or
foot ends as these can catch tiny fingers and hands. Slats
should be no further than 2 3/8 inches apart. All cribs
manufactured after 1974 must adhere to these standards.

The crib mattress is important also. The mattress must fit
tightly into the crib. You should not be able to put two fingers
width between the mattress and the side of the crib. If you can,
the mattress is too small and can pose a hazard. The mattress
should not be covered in protective plastic as this can cause a
possible suffocation problem. Bedding should be kept tight on
the bed. Do not use a loose pillow with an infant. Pillows
should be decorative only and must be removed when the child is
in the crib.

Through the years new criteria continue to be added to the crib
safety standards. If you are planning on using a crib that was
made before 1986 be sure to check it for all possible problems.
Review the site to find out if the crib was recalled for safety.
Measure the slats and check all hardware for possible choking
hazards. Be sure that the mattress you get will fit into the
crib snugly. When in doubt it is best to purchase a new crib.

A new single-drop side crib is typically priced below $300,
making it an affordable purchase. Check safety and convenience
features. Cribs are now available that convert into toddler
beds, daybeds and even full size beds to grow with the child.
Check these as you would any crib to ensure that it is safe.

As children grow you need to ensure that they cannot climb or
fall out of the crib. Most cribs have adjustable mattress
positions which allow you to lower the bed as a child grows.
When the child stands the top of the crib side should not be
lower than his chest, with the side in the highest position.
Once the child reaches this size you need to move the child from
the crib to a toddler bed.

About The Author: Article written by Randi Reese, she offers a
wide selection of baby cribs at
http://www.cribsandtoddlerbeds.com

Liven Up Your Baby Shower With Decorations

Depending on your available budget and the time, you can go for simple or for extravagant baby shower decorations. You can decorate a baby shower in numerous ways - you can make use balloons, table settings, cakes as well as decorations on the walls and ceilings. Baby shower decorations are an integral part of any baby shower party.

You can create a baby shower centerpiece by for instance filling with stuffed toys, a small wagon or a basket. You decorate the room with dolls, teddy bears and toys by placing them on tables, chairs, etc. You can also put baby stuff and items like feeding bottles, rattles, teething rings and pacifiers among others in a small basket. You can also create a bouquet of balloons that you could use a centerpiece or you could attach them to the chairs or other furniture.

Most of the decorations of modern shower parties have changed with the times but then you can still be traditional by using the colors used in the baby's nursery. The nursery could be decorated with streamers, fresh flowers and balloons.

It is not at all necessary to make use of elaborate party decorations. Simple decorations like a few party toys or some flowers would be sufficient if that is what you want. If you want an elaborate celebration, there are many specialty stores for baby showers that offer a wide range of products like teddies, storks, etc. These decorations can be easily removed and can be taken home by the expecting couple as a remembrance or memorabilia for the special occasion. Some of these decorations could be reused for a children's party. Popular nowadays are diaper cakes. Play nursery songs or soft music during your party.

For the shower's color theme, it is suggested that you use the colors that you could find in the nursery. In this manner, you are given more flexibility for the decorations, napkins and tableware. It isn't at all necessary to purchase decorations that are expensive.

The location of your baby shower, whether it is in a cozy home or a restaurant is very important so that you will be able to determine the supplies and decorations to be used. Coordinate the shower's theme with all the supplies and decorations like centerpieces, invitations, cups, plates, napkins and favors.

For any party, imagination and creativity will play a big role for the success of it and the decorations need not be costly.

James Brown writes about http://www.costumesmaskswigs.com

Introducing Your Baby To Solid Foods

How Should I Start Feeding My Baby Solids?

When your baby is ready and the doctor has given you the OK
to try solid foods, pick a time of day when your baby is
not tired or cranky. You want your baby to be a little
hungry, but not all-out starving; you might want to let
your baby breastfeed a while, or provide part of the usual
bottle. Have your baby sit supported in your lap or in an
upright infant seat. Infants, who sit well, usually around
6 months, can be placed in a high chair with a safety
strap. Use a highchair as soon as your baby can sit easily
without support. To safely use a highchair:
--Select a chair with a broad, stable base that won't tip
easily.
--Use the safety straps every time you put your baby in the
chair.
--Keep other children from pulling, climbing or hanging on
to the highchair.
--Place the highchair a safe distance from the counter,
table or any other stationary object your baby could push
against forcefully enough to tip him or herself over. Give
your baby enough time to finish each meal.

Most babies are full after 20 minutes of mealtime,
including several minutes of exploring their food and
socializing with the person feeding them. When your baby
has had enough to eat, he or she will refuse the spoon with
mouth closed or face turned away. Follow his or her lead,
and never try to force in a few more bites.

Our medical advisors recommend that a baby's first food
should be root vegetables (yams, carrots) or fruit rather
than rice cereal. The first feeding may be nothing more
than a little food mixed in a whole lot of liquid.

Place the spoon near your baby's lips, and let the baby
smell and taste. Don't be surprised if this first spoonful
is rejected. Wait a minute and try again. Most food offered
to your baby at this age will end up on the baby's chin,
bib, or high-chair tray. Again, this is just an
introduction.

Have the right equipment a small-sized plastic baby feeding
spoon does not transmit heat or cold while having a smooth
edge.

Do's

--Sit baby comfortably on your lap, baby hair chair or
infant seat.
--Tie a bib in place and hold baby's head gently but firmly
so that a sudden turn does not result in an eye or an ear
full.
--Place the spoon in the baby's mouth on top of the tongue.
Remove it with an upwards motion so the food is pushed off
the top gum or lip.
--Offer no more than a few drops at a time at first. And if
it gets spitted back, gently retrieve it from the chin and
return it to the mouth.
--If your baby is unwilling to eat after a few attempts,
discard the food and begin again later with a new
preparation.

Don'ts

--Never attempt to feed baby cereal from a bottle using a
teat with an enlarged hole. Cereals are intended as a
supplement to the normal intake of milk. Your baby does not
have to consume a great quantity of solid food yet. If your
baby will not take it from a spoon, simply try again later.
--Get frustrated with this process.

About the Author:

Mischelle (Schelly) Weedman-Davis left her 15-year
high-tech career to become a stay-at-home mom but later
became the founder of Sprouts Baby Food, Inc. She now uses
her talents to support her husband's law firm, the Davis
Law Group. http://www.InjuryTrialLawyer.com

Cozy Your Baby In These 10 Soft Blanket Fabrics

A soft, warm blanket is a must for every infant. Always among
the most popular baby gifts, blankets give new mothers something
cuddly to wrap her baby in. Blankets are available in and
unending number of designs, colors, and styles, and can be had
with plush lining and trim. They are also available in many
types of fabrics, which is the subject of this article. Here's a
listing of the ten most popular baby blanket fabrics and what
you can expect to spend on them.

Cotton

Cotton is the most well known fabric in existence today. It can
be washed by machine and is extremely versatile - it can be
woven, knitted, and dye any color you can imagine. Generally
priced in the $10-$40 range, it can become more expensive with
an elaborate design. The packaging may also influence the price.

Flannel

A light- or medium-weight cloth, flannel can be made in several
ways, primarily a blend of wool and cotton or wool and a
synthetic fiber. These blankets are generally available in the
same price range as cotton, $10-$40.

Chenille

Usually made from cotton, this fabric can be distinguished by
its manufacturing process. First the fibers are spun into a
tightly wound core, then piles (short lengths of fabric) are
wrapped around so its edges stand at right angles from the core.
This gives chenille its characteristic look and makes it feel so
soft. A blanket made from chenille is a little more costly than
one made from cotton or flannel, ranging from $25 to $60 in
cost.

Fleece

I bet you think you know what this is made from, but you're
wrong. You're confusing this with the wool of sheep. As used in
a fleece baby blanket, the term describes a polyester fabric.
There's no wool in a fleece baby blanket! Prices can range from
$10 all the way to $70.

Satin

Once very expensive because it was made from silk, satin is
currently produced from nylon, rayon, acetate, and polyester.
This provides a much more affordable way to attain the glossy
finish the fabric is known for. Although still costing $50 or
more, satin baby blankets are much less expensive today than
they were when they were made from silk.

Alpaca

The original source for alpaca wool is the Peruvian alpaca, but
the term now refers to a more generic style of fabric. It can be
made from Icelandic sheep wool, high-quality English wool, or
mohair, and is available in a wide price range. Expect to pay a
minimum of $30 but the cost could go above $120.

Cashmere

Obtained from the cashmere goat, this wool is renowned for its
legendary softness. One of the more expensive fabrics to choose
for a baby blanket, expect to pay from $80 to more than $200 for
a cashmere blanket.

Merino

Merino is a less expensive alternative to cashmere. Originating
in Spain, it comes from a breed of white fine-wooled sheep that
produce an exceptional quality of fleece. It looks and feels
very similar to cashmere, but baby blankets made from merino
will cost significantly less - about $30 to $120.

Velvet

Considered a luxury fabric because it requires multiple steps
to manufacture and more thread per square inch than other
fabrics, velvet can be made from many fibers, including cotton,
silk, and synthetics. Prices for velvet baby blankets range from
$40 to more than $150.

Charmeuse Silk

Charmeuse silk is the most expensive fabric used to make baby
blankets. Shiny and very smooth, a blanket made from the "silk
of the emperors" will make a great impression on the new parents
and show just how much they and the baby mean to you. With a
beautiful drape and an elegant luster, a blanket made from
charmeuse silk will cost about $300. Maybe not the most
practical fabric to catch baby's messes, but it'll definitely
feel nice.

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A Cleaning List For Your Baby's Nursery

As important as cleaning your kitchen and bathroom your baby's
nursery should be top on your list of cleanliness.

In your baby's nursery is an important room to keep clean. This
simple list will help you keep on track with the basic cleaning
details for baby's room.

We spend hours and lots of money making sure this room is a
haven for our special little ones, take the time to make sure it
stays that way.

Use this simple baby nursery cleaning list to ensure your
little one's surroundings are taken care of.

With the hectic daily care of a baby you're often left with
little time to clean. Do your best to try and find a spare 5
minutes daily to keep the nursery a clean nurturing place.

In wiping down your baby's room make sure you are using a
non-toxic cleaner for. There are some great ones on the market
that take care of odors and disinfect.

Daily -

For very young babies change the mattress sheet daily or every
few days. Leaky diapers and other accidents are common and
expected so be prepared to clear them up fast. Have several crib
sheets for quick changes. Keep baby's mattress fresh. If the
mattress is not of the waterproof kind, purchase a couple of
mattress covers so you can rotate these also. If you mattress
itself is the waterproof kind wipe it down with non-toxic
cleaner each time you change it. Takes just a few seconds and
clears up anything that may have leaked through.

Change out the diaper pail and wipe it down with a non-toxic
odor eliminating cleaner. If you don't do it daily do it several
times a week. A few minutes airing in the out of doors is a good
idea also.

Air the room with the windows open for about 15 minutes. Try to
do this in the morning.

You may need to do laundry daily with a small baby. Or at least
several times a week.

Straighten toys and belongings. Put away clean clothing.

If you travel daily check diaper bag and restock. If not save
this for once a week. A diaper bag list is a great idea to keep
from leaving anything behind.

Weekly -

Dust baby's room. A simple damp rag will do the job. Add a drop
of lavender essential oil for a calming scent through the room.

Wash baby blankets.

Vacuum floor.

Wipe down changing table with a non-toxic disinfecting cleaner.

Monthly -

If you have curtains wash them. Don't put dry clean only in
baby's room. Clean windows.

Wash baby's bath toys. A quick swish in dish washing soap. Wash
out baby's bath tub.

Wipe out diaper bag. Spills can happen.

Semi-Annually-

Vacuum under baby's furniture.

Clean out baby's closet.

Baby will be a year before you know it and helping you clean
shortly after that.

Use this simple cleaning list to keep baby's room in top order.

About The Author: Lists are the easiest and best way to stay
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How To Keep Up With Your Baby's Changing Shoe Needs

At the beginning of life, your baby is usually in a crib, a cradle, or in somebody's arms. They do not walk, they do not crawl, and they do not even turn over. You might wonder why they need shoes at all. As your child begins to walk, though, there is little question. Getting your child from birth through being a toddler in appropriate shoes is an important chore to take care of as your child grows up.

At first, your main concern with your child's feet should be to keep them warm. As you will be protecting your baby very closely during this time, the shoes do not need to offer much in the way of protection from environmental hazards other than the cold. If you keep your baby's feet covered up with a blanket when warmth is needed, you can get by with putting off buying baby shoes at this time.

However, if your baby is a kicker and you cannot keep blankets on their feet, warm socks can work better. There are all kinds of special baby socks and booties that can keep baby's feet warm in the coldest winter. For dress up, you might want to put on cloth baby shoes instead. They will look more formal, but will still keep your baby's feet warm.

Soft soled shoes are the next step for most babies. Baby shoes begin to be more important as the baby starts moving around more. That is when babies begin to crawl off the blanket you had set down for them. They begin to crawl and explore anything new they can reach. You will be watching them carefully, but they are fast. Their shoes need to protect them a little more than socks or cloth shoes.

Shoes with a soft sole may have leather soles or rubber soles. Some soft soled shoes are made like little moccasins. Soft soled shoes allow the baby to respond to the floor in a natural way. They enable the child to go through developmental changes like crawling and standing while holding onto things. These baby shoes are suitable for any child who has not started to walk.

As soon as your baby even starts trying to walk, go to the shoe store and look for shoes that will make that activity easier. There are some very good shoes that give some support without an excessive amount of structure. The child needs baby shoes at this time that will allow for tentative movements and trial and error in learning. Look for shoes that are designated as pre-walker shoes because they are made to bridge the gap between a floor-bound baby and a walking one.

When your child has mastered walking, baby shoes will be needed that can both support and protect the feet. Your child will be off and running in every direction. You will need to be sure a stray splinter or sharp rock does not hurt baby's foot. Now is the time for sturdy leather lace up shoes with a solid sole. You may have to buy numerous pairs of baby shoes in the course of a child's infancy and being a toddler. It is always important that you buy baby shoes that fit. Then, your child can grow in comfort.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about footwear as well as children's shoes at http://www.shoefashionmagazine.com

Explaing The Popularity Of Natural Baby Care Products

Whether you are a new or more experienced parent, of course,
you want the best for your child. Today, there is a lot more
respect shown to natural baby care means including organic
remedies because more and more people that treat their babies
with things such as traditional medicine are recognizing the
benefits of herbs. There are new baby care products being
released on the market all the time, but you might have noticed
that natural baby care products are becoming more and more
popular.Why is this?

Natural baby care products are of course the best way for you
to care for your baby whenever possible. These products come in
many different forms. Undoubtedly most important is the food
your child eats. Next, skin products should be natural baby care
products, since these products are "ingested" in some form or
another; they are either absorbed through the skin or ingested
when your child places a hand in his or her mouth, for example.

Where should you get your natural baby care products? When you
are shopping online, you should only buy baby food that comes
from the official web site of a known brand. If you are shopping
at your local grocery store, check out those food brands that
are most well known to you and perhaps most popular. If a
particular brand is on sale, make sure that, first of all, the
expiration date for that particular food is not close at hand.
Then, make sure that it is a popular brand and that you're just
getting a good deal. This does happen, and if it does, good for
you. Of course, you first concern is for your child's health,
however, not the money you save. If in doubt, don't buy.

Because some babies may have trouble digesting food, make sure
the natural baby food products you buy contain easy to digest
fruits and vegetables. Ask your pediatrician whether or not your
little one is ready for such potentially allergenic foods as
cereals, dairy, and the like. If not, avoid these.

When you care for your baby's skin, you can choose from many
natural products. Perhaps one of the most important skincare
products for your baby is diaper rash cream. Many brand-name
diaper rash ointments contain such potentially harmful
substances as petroleum jelly. A better and more natural option
is to choose a diaper rash cream that has an aloe vera base.
Aloe vera also helps heal minor cuts and burns.

You can find natural baby care skin products in a variety of
places. One of the easiest ways to shop for natural baby care
skin products is online. If you go online, you can research a
particular brand you like before you buy it. In some cases, you
can also buy online; or go to your local drug or department
store, or a specialty shop such as a baby boutique. Whichever
you choose, a little homework and some careful planning will
help you buy just the products you need.

For answers to your questions about these baby care basics, you
can consult from a virtual library of baby care books. Since
natural baby care products are so readily available, parents
interested in using these products should have no problem
finding them. It is a good idea to have done the research and
some of these products on hand before the first labor pains even
hit.

About The Author: To learn more about general baby care tips
and information visit our site at http://www.basicbabycare.com

Does Your Baby Get Sufficient Sleep

Baby needs plenty of sleep. Baby that does not rest enough can be very cranky. As parents, you need to ensure that your baby gets enough sleep. Baby who receives not insufficent rest can be very cranky. You may notice that babies who don't sleep enough may not grow optimally. Children who are small in size are mostly due to lack of sleep when they were babies.

For more information on this topic, check out this article on "Baby Need Enough Sleep." Find out how long should you baby sleep. If you are hiring a nanny or a babysitter, you can teach them how to know if your child has enough sleep.

Selecting A Great Mattress Pad For Your Baby's Crib

Mattress pads are commonly used in cribs to protect the
mattress from being damaged by liquids. The best mattress pads
are highly absorbent and fit snugly against the mattress. By
making sure that the mattress pad that you select for your
baby's crib is both very absorbent and fits the mattress
properly, you are ensuring that it will be able to keep both the
mattress and the baby as dry and clean as possible.

When selecting a mattress pad, you also need to be certain that
you choose one that is both washable and easily to remove. It is
likely to need washing every single day, sometimes more than
once a day. The fabric should be durable enough to withstand
frequent washings. You may want to consider investing in more
than one mattress pad to allow for those days when wetting
problems are at their worst.

Making sure that the mattress pad you select fits the mattress
in your baby's crib properly is very important for reasons other
than keeping the mattress and the baby clean. A proper-fitting
mattress pad is an important safety consideration. If the
mattress pad in your baby's crib can shift easily from one place
to another in the bed, it is a suffocation hazard.

Another important consideration when selecting a mattress pad
is to find out if the one you are considering is designed to
protect your baby from dust and other allergens that may build
up on his or her mattress. Choose a mattress pad that is dust
proof so that it will provide an additional benefit of
protecting your baby from dust and other allergens. A dust proof
mattress pad can play an important role in reducing common
health related issues often triggered by allergens, such as
asthma, bronchitis and sneezing.

Your mattress pad check list needs to include the following
items: proper fit, washable, easily removable, and dust proof.
There are many sources to find affordable mattress pads for your
baby's crib that meet all of the above criteria. Many baby
oriented retailers, mass merchandisers, linen stores and a wide
variety of online retailers are likely to have exactly what you
need to protect your baby and his or her crib mattress.

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The Importance Of Rest For Your Baby

It is a fact of life that all living creatures need to rest in
order to stay healthy and happy. Sleep is one of the necessary
tools of survival just like eating and drinking. In order for
the body and mind to perform at their best, a regular sleep
routine is needed.

When we sleep, it gives not only your body, but your mind a
rest as well. It is thought that sleep allows you to prepare for
the next day and gives your brain an opportunity to sort things
out. Though scientists aren't precisely sure what type of
organizing our brain does when we sleep. It is believed that
during sleep your brain stores and sorts data, solves problems
and replaces any chemicals that the rest of the body may need.

Different Babies May Have Different Sleeping Habits

The amount of sleep that a baby needs will depend on the baby
herself. Age plays a large factor in how much sleep is needed,
but nature plays a large part too. A newborn will sleep anywhere
from 10 to 22 hours per day. This amount of sleep will decrease
as the child grows.

If you have a baby that sleeps well, consider yourself lucky.
For those less fortunate, there are things you can do as a
parent that can get your baby on the right track to get the
proper amount of sleep that she needs. Some babies are more
active than others and will require less sleep, others are more
laid back and are ready for a nap anytime, anywhere. Only you
can determine the sleep needs of your child by observing
behavior during the day. A child that needs more sleep will be
cranky, clumsy and whiny without the proper amount of rest,
while a child who needs less sleep will be ready to face the day
with a smile and energy from the moment they awaken.

Teaching Your Baby Good Sleeping Habits

Though we may think that sleeping is as natural as breathing,
it isn't. If you have poor sleeping habits, your child may
inadvertently pick up your bad rest habits. Usually by the time
a baby reaches about 3 months of age they have developed a
sleeping pattern. Most babies at this age have stopped their
night feeding and this is an ideal time to begin training your
baby for sleep. You must keep in mind that all babies develop at
a different rate. If your child doesn't seem ready for sleep
training at this particular time, put it on the back burner and
try it again in a couple of weeks.

When we say a baby sleeps through the night, we usually mean
they are sleeping at stretches of 5-6 hours at a time. Some
babies will sleep longer, some shorter. Once a child has reached
the age of 6 months and is still waking for a nighttime feeding,
it may be time to start night weaning.

Some babies sleep well through the night and then begin to wake
up again. Don't be alarmed, your baby may be missing you or she
may be trying hard to master new skills that spill over into her
rest and awaken her.

The best way to start healthy sleep habits at this age is to
establish a regular bedtime as well as scheduled naps and stick
to that schedule. You will notice signs of your baby becoming
tired such as rubbing her eyes or pulling at her ears. You can
also plan for specific nap times such as a nap after lunch
feeding and one before the dinner feeding. Some people put their
babies down two hours or so after they have last woken up. As
long as you give your baby the opportunity to sleep, any
approach you use should be fine.

About The Author: Debbie I. Snare recommends getting more
parenting advice at http://www.mybabyadvice.com

6 Simple And Easy Ways You Can Help Baby Sleep

Is your newborn giving you fits every time you put her down
to sleep? Do you feel like you could star in the next
blockbuster zombie movie if it keeps up for even a single
night longer?

Don't feel too bad, most new parents go through it.
Fortunately, there are a few simple and easy things you can
do to help

As long as your little one's sleep issues have no medical
roots, there are plenty of ideas out there to help. There
are even some great and rather unusual ideas, too.

But first things first though.

If you are having trouble getting her to catch a full 20
winks, make sure nothing is wrong. If her bedroom isn't too
hot or too cold, her clothing isn't too tight or too loose,
there is nothing physically wrong, and she is properly fed,
move on to other options.

Some of the more off the wall ideas to try that actually
have some results include:

* Massage. This is becoming a more common way to get even
the tiniest of newborns down for the night. A simple,
gentle massage or even patting can go a long way toward
helping you to get baby to sleep. Don't think deep tissue
massage for a newborn, just a simple rub down in a soothing
environment often helps greatly.

* White noise. This is an oldie, but a goodie. Basic
background noises that don't demand attention can really
help you help baby sleep. Thinks like ceiling fans, special
tapes and even dolls that play white noise can all help a
great deal.

* The washing machine. It is not at all unheard of for
parents of newborns to place their little ones in their car
seats on top of running washing machines. The gentle
movement (as long as the washer is balanced) coupled with
the noise tends to sooth some little ones greatly.

* Warm sheets. Babies do not like to be cold. After all,
they have spent roughly nine months is a pretty hot
environment. To ensure you don't set her down on a too cold
surface, consider turning up the temperature in her room a
little more or even getting flannel crib sheets.

* Swaddling. This is an old wife's trick that works
wonders. New parents are sometimes set aback by this one
though. Swaddling involves nothing more than special
clothing or blanket wrapping that keeps her arms and legs
held in tight - just like they were in the womb in her last
days inside. This is a great way to not only help baby
sleep, but to calm her when she's upset.

* Music. Think beyond regular lullabies. Some babies
actually prefer slightly louder music. This tends to be
especially the case if mom and dad listened to loud music a
lot while she was in the womb. Rock and roll beats won't
destroy baby's mind. Just make sure the volume isn't turned
up so loud to hurt her ears.

Learning how to help baby sleep sometimes requires thinking
outside of the box. Be creative with your ideas.

As long as they won't hurt her and they don't jeopardize
her safety while she's sleeping, they are worth trying. If
it works, you'll thank yourself for being creative.

But what works for one baby might not necessarily for
another. The trick is to find what works for your little
one and stick with it.

About the Author:

For 21 more creative, out-of-the-box ideas, send for your
copy of the free 21 Surprisingly Smarter Baby Sleep Tips.
Just send a blank email to:
==>mailto:smartersleeptips@getresponse.com or visit
==>http://www.babydevelopmentnews.com/babysleep.html

Colic Baby Tips - Knowing The Symptoms

The major colic baby symptom is continuous crying for some periods of time, and the sound of the cry is much more intense than that of other infants. A colic cry is often described as a piercing, relentless scream. It can stop as abruptly as it starts and is often heard during or immediately after a feeding, especially in cases when it is due to acid reflux. Although this crying could be happened at any time, it is usually the worse in the evening. Colic baby may lift his head, draw his legs up to their tummy, become red in the face and pass wind. Some babies refuse to eat. Difficult to stay asleep is also very common.

Colic is diagnosed by the "rule of threes" - if a baby cries at least three hours a day, three days per week, for three weeks in a row, then that baby is considered to be suffering from colic. Colic usually starts when the baby is two weeks old and ends when the baby is 100 days old, which is approximately three and a half months of age. In addition, premature baby is no more likely to suffer colic than a full term baby. The colic baby sounds as tough he is in tremendous pain. His face may be twisted and strained, causing onlookers to be highly concerned.

Normally, colic (except due to acid reflux problem) is not a serious condition. Research shows that babies with colic continue to eat and gain weight normally, despite the crying. The main problem with the condition is the stress and anxiety it creates within the home. Parents and other family members may find it difficult to cope with the continuous crying, so it's important to have support now and then.
Each baby will show different colic symptoms. Some may show a number of symptoms while some will only show one.

Below are some of the most common colic baby symptoms.

-They do not generally cry himself to sleep but instead continue to cry relentlessly, sometimes for hours.
-They do not tend to wind down; instead they tend to wind up and work themselves into frenzy.
-They do not always follow a pattern. What calms them at a given moment may excite them at another.
-Unlike other infants, when crying begins the colicky infant will rarely stop crying on his own, so waiting is out usually does not work. Instead, intervening quickly is helpful.

Clive Chung is a practicing licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in children and family issues. To get more information about colic baby, check out his website:
http://illness911.blogspot.com/2007/10/colic-baby_24.html

Find The Right Baby Boy Shower Invitation

It seems like every where we look there are tons of babies and mothers-to-be around. As many people will tell you Motherhood is a very special time for a woman. A time when many things in their life just seem to make sense. They will even go so far as to inform you that being a mother-to-be is much more important. When you want to give her a special gift you can plan a baby shower and if you know that the baby is a boy then you can send out baby boy shower invitations. Invitations that she will remember.
Now there are many things that can be done to prepare for the birthing of a baby, but a baby shower is one event that makes an anticipative mother very pleased. This is when she realizes that her child is approaching ever closer into her life. You can help with this as you not only give her baby gifts that will be of use in the beginning of the baby's birth but also for some time to come. Just another friendly reminder here, the mother to be, can be very emotional in this state. Therefore, it is nice to show her some love an appreciation by being understanding and giving.

When you look into purchasing baby boy shower invitations you will see that there are many dissimilar ones that you can buy. And trust me, there are thousands, one could get paralyzed by the deciding which ones to use. The best way to go about this might be to see what variety of preferences that the soon to be mother has. This way you can create a personalized baby shower invitation that she will appreciate and cherish forever. One good place to start your search would be online. Here the shower invitations are many times downloadable and ready for your use.

There are instances where you will be able to find internet sites that allow you to create unparalleled baby shower invitations. You can use these sites to turn average sounding shower invites into works of art. With a little creativity and love these invitations will come alive.

Now when you are looking at these sites you may want to see if you can get these cards for free or make certain that you have a good deal of time to order the baby boy shower invitations. For it can take time for the cards to arrive and for you to make the necessary changes to the assorted details. You know, like the new mother's name and the place where the baby shower will be held. These details are very significant otherwise your invitee won't be able to arrive in time for the baby shower. I know these details seem so obvious, but you wouldn't believe how many times they are overlooked.

Another interesting way to send baby boy shower invitations is by email. Yes, by email. I know what you might be thinking here, but listen up to some of the advantages. As you know many people have access to a personal computer these days. With little to no time, you can easily pick out the perfect invitation that appeal to you and send them racing across the world, if need be, in record time. With this method many of the guests will be able to plan the appropriate gifts to bring for the mother and you will be able to find out who can't attend.

Baby boy shower invitations are just one simple way to let everyone know that there is a little package of mischief who is about to make his appearance. And as we know this is a special time in a womans life. So, here is where you can make the baby shower more memorable for the new mother with great baby boy shower invitations. The ones she will appreciate as the years pass.

Bowe is the webmaster and content provider of many informational websites. Please visit his Baby Shower site at: http://babyshower.infosupplier.net here you will find free and valuable baby shower information galore

Tips On Finding The Proper Common Sense Book Of Baby And Child Care

As you gaze at your newborn, you may have faired well on your
current parenting know-how, but you probably would like to own a
common sense book of baby and child care, which can help you out
when it comes to something unfamiliar. Numerous publications are
marketed as "the best" selection in a common sense book of baby
and child care. Since there are too many options to count, how
can you select the one that best fits your needs?

Experts in the field of child psychology or professionals, such
as pediatricians are one of the main motivations that new
parents use when looking to purchase a common sense book of baby
and child care. On the other hand, since favored authors pen
these publications, they can often cost a lot of money.

While the common sense book of baby and child care associated
with a person who is clearly knowledgeable in the field is
considered the best way to go, it is important to take note that
there are plenty of ways to obtain the publication you desire
and not face expensive costs. For starters, it is important to
make sure that the book of your choice will touch upon all of
the subjects you will need assistance in.

The next step is to ensure that the information is delivered in
a manner that is easy to follow. A lot of common sense books of
baby and child care rely on fancy and complicated terms and
references, which does not help you gain a better understanding
on some of the childcare issues you may encounter. It is also
suggested to ensure that the publication illustrates techniques
and details through the use of clear-cut graphics and photos, as
this will help you confirm that you are performing methods and
steps as intended. It is also important that the book does not
try to get too complicated or involved, in some cases it would
be much better to see a doctor.

You should also know that as you scan a common sense book of
baby and child care, you may find information that doesn't
particularly suit your beliefs on rearing a child. This dilemma
may arise when a baby book shows you one method of calming down
a fussy baby that you may have already attempted and failed. It
is recommended to select books that offer more than one way to
solve common baby issues.

When it comes to solving childcare issues, it is not always
necessary to rely on a baby book. Asking family and friends with
children can provide decent help, as they may have the answers
to questions on your mind. On the other hand, if you favor using
a book, try locating decent publications at the local bookshop
or across the Internet, where you may also scan book reviews.
After conducting suitable research, you will have increased your
chances of bringing home just the right common sense book of
baby and child care.

With the extensive number of books that are available on baby
and child care, finding a publication that you like should be
relatively easy.

About The Author: To learn more about general baby care tips
and information visit our site at http://www.basicbabycare.com

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Adopt Your Baby from China

In 1992 the Chinese government passed a law ratifying international adoption, and within seven years, China surpassed Russia as the international destination from which most parents adopt their children. By 2005, nearly 8000 Chinese children were adopted by American couples alone. The adoption process is orderly and systematic, with all aspects of adoption (including costs and the referral process) being regulated by the China Center of Adoption Affairs (CCAA) in Beijing. All adoptions must work through an agency approved by the CCAA.

The CCAA has established a finely structured system that makes the paperwork predictable and manageable, and they offer plenty of concrete information on how to compile your dossier successfully. The journey from beginning to end is, indeed, a long and arduous process, but we know of friends who have become proud and happy parents by journey's end.

The Orphaned Child's Profile
More than 95% of the children adopted from China are girls who were put up for adoption because of China's One Child Only population control policy. 39% are under 1 year of age; 59% are 1-4 years old. Although they were abandoned after birth, these children generally were wanted while in their mother's womb, and their parents were most likely hoping to give birth to a male baby. Most of the birth mothers took good care of themselves and their unborn child, hoping that they would have a healthy, life-long relationship together. Very few Chinese women smoke or drink alcohol, so most babies start out with a relatively clean bill of health at birth and have their basic needs met in the orphanage. Adopted Chinese children tend to be free of long-term physical or emotional issues.

Because child abandonment is illegal, birth parents leave no trace of their identity, and adoptive parents receive a certificate of abandonment that proves that the biological parents have relinquished their parental rights through abandonment. There is no legal avenue for the birth parents to reclaim custody.

Basic Facts:
Estimated Cost of Adopting: $20,000 to $25,000. USD

Age Requirements for Adopting Parents: Both spouses must be at least 30 years old and only one parent can be older than 55; parents over 45 may be referred toddlers and those over 50 will probably be referred school-age children. Singles must be under 50 to adopt a non-special needs child.

Family Status: Married couples preferred. Prior divorces permitted. A limited number of singles may adopt. Families must have no more than 4 children at home when they apply. Gay couples are not eligible. Both parents must be physically and mentally healthy and free from contagious diseases. Family income should exceed $35,000. USD per year.

Travel: At least one parent must travel to China to adopt. The average stay is 10-14 days. The child's visa will be issued at Guangzhou Consulates.

Timeline: Approximately 10-14 months after the completion of the dossier. There is a shorter wait for pre-identified special needs children and parents of Chinese ancestry.

Well, that's the basics. My advice to you is to find an adoption agency specializing in China adoptions. Remember, it must have affiliations with the China Center of Adoption Affairs. The CCAA maintains an extensive list of agencies on its website; fees vary, as well as services. After your initial contact, congratulate yourself: you have taken the first step in your goal of expanding your family!

Timothy Green is the co-author of SPEAK E-Z CHINESE In Phonetic English. You can find fun and easy Mandarin lessons, as well as travel and culture tips about China at http://www/CathayCafe/com

How To Return To Work In Style After Having A Baby

Are you a new mum who has decided to stay at home with your baby? However long you choose to stay home with your baby, the prospect of re-entering the workforce can be daunting. Being away from work for any length of time can be a worrying time. You may feel nervous about being judged on how you look by your work colleagues, you may feel you have forgotten how to dress well and look good for work . There could be additional anxieties of how you will fit back in with your work colleagues, and how you will cope with being the consummate professional and being a parent to your young child. There may be issues about skills that may have grown a little rusty during your leave.

These fears can be compounded by worrying about your appearance when you return to work. You may lack confidence in your appearance and feel that you have let yourself go. Some mums develop a new body shape after having a baby and do not know how to dress to enhance their shape. Pre-baby work clothes may no longer flatter you now or, depending upon the length of the time away from work, may no longer look stylish. Mums tend to adopt a practical style when home with the kids, which is perfect for the home, but when you are returning to work, you need to swap your casual look for a look that means business.

When you are in total control of how others see you, that it is a really powerful feeling and will make the transition of returning to work much easier.

How would you love to have a Personal Stylist working with you, helping you to feel really good about yourself, and projecting a strong sense of your own unique style. How would you like to walk back into your office and your work colleagues say you are looking really well.

To overcome the fears of returning to work, many professional mums rely upon the services of expert personal stylists who show them how create a dazzling, professional look for the office. This will help you to let go of worrying that you may not be taken seriously by your boss or peer group.

There are excellent personal shopping firms such as the Glass Slipper, where expert personal stylists have helped mums return to work in style. While your child may not mind how you look, the board room demands a confident woman with a professional, stylish look. Mums who experience a change in body shape after having a child can often feel uncomfortable wearing their pre-baby clothes. For all of the mums that have used this type of service, a new look has made the transition back to work an amazing, energizing experience. After working with a personal stylist, clients report that they look and feel great about their bodies and express delight at finally learning how to dress to flatter their bodyshape and colouring. Clients approaching their forties and beyond are ecstatic to find that they do not have wear frumpy clothes. Working with a personal stylist helps mothers returning to work project a powerful, confident image that translates to a successful transition back to work and a jump start for the return to their careers.

If you are preparing to return to work after a break to raise your children, you, may be riddled with fears. Creating a stylish look for yourself will help you return to the work world feeling confident. You will feel amazing because you know that you look your best. That confidence in your appearance can bolster your morale and help ease yourself back into the working environment. You have got enough things to worry about; your appearance should not be one of them.

If you are preparing to return to work after a break to raise your children, here are some tips that will help you transform your insecurities, promote a confident, professional image, and help you regain your status at work effortlessly.

1. Spend time and money creating a flawless foundation for your business wardrobe. Undergarments that shape, lift, and smooth can make you look and feel fabulous, and give you tons of confidence. Many celebrities walk the red carpet in Magic Knickers and similar underweas can give you confidence by pulling in your tummy, smoothing your hips and thighs and lifting any sagging areas. Before you buy any clothes that your colleagues or clients will see, invest in some hard-working underwear that they will not see.

2. As you prepare to re-enter the world of work, dig into your wardrobe to see what you need and what you do not need. Try on everything you think you want to keep. Be as objective as possible. You may want to take digital photos of yourself in outfits to see how you look in them. In addition to front and back views, check your silhouette to make sure that your top and bottom halves are in proportion. Clothes that looked fabulous before the baby may no longer flatter your shape or fit properly, or they may look outdated. If an item does not make you look and feel great, donate it to your favorite charity. Once you have narrowed down your wardrobe to only those pieces that flatter you and make you look amazing, you will start finding the gaps in your wardrobe.

3. To fill the gaps in your newly reduced wardrobe, you will need to shop for some replacement items. Make a list of the pieces you need. Most professional women need skirt or trouser suits, shirts, accessories, and a classic, well-cut coat. Preparing a list of your wardrobe must-haves will help you stick to your budget and your plan. This way you are more likely to return home with clothes, bags and shoes that meet your professional wardrobe needs.

4. Before heading out to shop, take a good look at fashion magazines, catalogues, and websites. Pay attention to current trends and think about how you can adapt them to you. Do you suit wide-legged, boot-leg or skinny trousers? Should your skirts be pencil or A-line shape? What is the best skirt length for you? Do cropped or fitted jackets look good on you? What about colours and patterns? Make note of the trends that you like and that appeal to your sense of style, and work out how to adapt them to suit your body shape, size, personality and budget.

5. Head out to the shops early in the day with your list. Look for the styles that you liked in magazines and begin trying on clothes. Your goal is to find the best cuts and styles for your body shape and size, and to choose the colours that make your skin glow and your hair and eyes sparkle and shine. Then you need to start thinking about how to put outfits together, what will go with what and how to accessorise each oufit to make you really stand out from the crowd. It is best to get someone else opinion about what suits you best. Go shopping with someone whose sense of style you trust. This person can give you an objective opinion A friend, salesperson, or even better, a personal stylist can be an objective judge of what looks best on your body. If you must shop alone, take along a digital camera or camera phone and take photos of yourself in various outfits. You will be able to tell which ones are the most flattering and confidence-inspiring.

6. After you have decided which styles and colours suit you best, be prepared to be flexible and creative. If a skirt suit was on your list and you have found a trouser suit that makes you look fabulous, go with the trouser suit. You may find that certain colours lift your skin colour (and your mood) go with them! Be specific and disciplined about what you are buying. If you intended to buy two tops, do not blow your budget on ten tops and have nothing left for a bag or shoes.

If the thought of putting together a uniquely stylish and professional look fills you with dread, book a personal shopping session with a creative and gifted personal stylist. Within a few hours, she will show you how to look and feel amazing everyday at work. A good personal stylist will spend time getting to know you and helping you understand what works best for your body and colouring. A shopping professional can help you steer clear of cuts that are unflattering and show you how to focus on building a wardrobe that will have you returning to work looking and feeling confident and gorgeous. Good stylists will work within your budget to help you create the professional look you need. Plus, in the long run, using the services of an experienced personal stylist can actually save you money by preventing your buying clothes you will never wear (how many pairs of black trousers are in your wardrobe now?) A great stylist will help you spend money wisely on key pieces that you can wear over and over and mix and match to create a whole host of different outfits and looks.

For further information visit http://www.theglassslipper.co.uk

 

Pregnant And Buying For Baby

Buying for a baby is one of the most fun ways to shop but being
pregnant takes some of the fun out of it as the walk around
packed shops can become a bit of a struggle. The larger items
in particular can be a bit much for a heavily pregnant woman.
The best solution is probably to buy for the baby online as
there are many online stores which sell baby cribs, car-seats
and other essential baby and nursery items. This way the mother
can shop for their new baby in the comfort of their own home,
yet still maintaining the luxury of choice.

The weight gained during pregnancy because of the steadily
growing baby can often lead to stretchmarks. This can be
unsightly although they tend to fade eventually. But sometimes,
pregnant women can feel as if they are not looking their best
and the onslaught of these marks can be upsetting to many women
but they can be avoided or at least minimized with certain
creams and oils designed for pregnancy. Rubbing a pregnant
belly with cocoa butter or similar products can keep the skin
smooth, taut and stretchy and even better is the fact that an
unborn child will often respond to this type of touch.

Getting a Nursery Ready for a New Baby

A lot of preparation goes into the time before a baby is born.
Many items and products are needed such as baby clothing and
lotions and somewhere is needed to store all of this extra
baggage. Those who are lucky enough to have room for a baby
nursery, pregnancy can be the perfect time to prepare this room.
Finding the right color scheme can sometimes depend on
discovering the gender of the new arrival but there are many
colors which are not aimed at any particular gender. The room
also needs to be furnished with the rest of the essential items
that a baby needs.

The sheer number of things that can be placed in a nursery can
be a bit steep on the wallet but luckily a baby shower can help
to alleviate the cost by giving family and friends a chance to
purchase some keepsakes as well as necessary items such as
bedding for the new arrival. Some of the items given can be
duplicates or similar so it is a good idea to let the guests
know beforehand what exactly is needed or by preparing a list
similar to a wedding list at a certain shop so that they will
all know what gifts have already been purchased.

About The Author: Kimberly Carlson is an author and devoted
mother of two little ones. You may find more of her poignant
articles at http://baby.acousticmusicnews.com

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The Care Of Baby Teeth: What A Parent Should Know

Of course, with your newborn, you won't be worrying about tooth
care. However, as your child gets older, you'll want to know
how to take care of your older baby's or toddler's teeth.
Caring for a baby's or toddler's teeth can be challenging, but
it's still important. Here are some tips you should follow.

When new teeth come in

As any new parent knows, by the time a baby is just a few
months old, he or she may be cutting a first tooth. This is
where the care of baby teeth starts. First of all, to help the
baby teethe, you can purchase specially made teething rings that
usually can be put in the freezer and made cold and hard.
Babies love to chew on these, since they help ease the pain and
also help new teeth break through the gums.

Oftentimes, children get slight colds or runny noses during the
teething process. If this happens, or if your child is running
a slight fever, you can wipe the child with a damp washcloth to
make him or her feel better. If the fever persists, make sure
to contact your pediatrician or other health care professional
to see what interventions you might do. For example, you might
be able to give the child a little baby Tylenol or some other
type of pain reliever. This will not only help fever go down,
but it will also help ease the teething pain.

Once your child has a few teeth, you can begin to introduce him
or her to proper oral hygiene. For very, very small babies with
few or no teeth, a warm, clean, wet washcloth rubbed on gums may
be enough to help keep the mouth clean. Of course, always put
your child to bed with only a bottle of water, no milk or juice.
Once your child is a bit older, you'll want to begin to
introduce him or her to brushing teeth. At first, do this
yourself with a soft brush and a little baby tooth paste.
Brushing your child's teeth while he or she is still young will
help him or her get used to the process.

Of course, once your child gets older, around the age of five
or six, the baby teeth will start to fall out and adult teeth
will start to come in. Once this begins to happen, remember to
make it fun and exciting. Of course, children usually like this
process, because the tooth fairy visits and they get a little
spending money for their trouble. Make sure to make the process
even easier by providing soft foods if the child has trouble
chewing after he or she loses the tooth.

With a little luck and some planning, your child's teeth will
take him or her to adulthood healthy and strong. Good oral
hygiene is a must for this, so start early by both practicing
good hygiene and taking the child to the dentist for regular
visits.

About The Author: Peyton Hines is both a parent, grandparent
and has coached children athletics for years. He has written
articles on a wide variety of topics. To learn more about
general baby care tips and information visit our site at
http://www.basicbabycare.com

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A Look At Baby Gift Basket Ideas

Planning to host a baby shower? Or a friend of yours recently gave birth to a healthy bouncing baby? How else could you express that you care for that friend of yours and her baby? A baby gift basket could be the best present that would express your concern.

A baby gift basket is one of those themed gift baskets that are presented containing items that are of value to the recipient. Oftentimes these baby gift baskets contain the following items that will surely give delight to the new parents and to the new addition. You could make use of this information to create or stuff your own baby gift basket that will rid you of those more expensive commercialized kinds.

Nursery room items are always popular. These include colorful mobiles to keep the baby busy, lullaby music to soothe the infant, and nursery rhymes CD's. Bigger items like layettes, changing mats for tables and cribs, and other furniture for the baby may be found in deluxe baby gift baskets. Educational toys are also good to make the baby gift basket more beneficial in stimulating the baby's mental development.

Toys R Us. The following toys are also nice to place inside your baby gift basket. Rattles, pacifiers, teethers, feeding bottles, infant cups, bibs and spoons are also useful add-ons in your baby gift basket.

Bath products for babies are also commonly found in baby gift baskets. These include baby shampoo, baby powder, baby towels, wipes, bubble bath; brush set and tub toys that the baby will surely enjoy in the near future. Baby clothing's could also be considered as one of the best baby gift basket goodies that one could ever give. Just be sure that the clothes you'll give suit the gender of the baby.

If you are to a baby gift basket to someone with a toddler or a young kid, the items should also suit the baby's age. Soft toys, board books, board games, piggy banks will certainly win the jump with delight of a toddler. Clothes for toddlers are also nice to include in your baby gift basket.

If one is intending to give the baby gift basket as a baby shower present, it will be nice if baby cookies, baby cakes, jelly beans and other baby foods will be found there. Announcement and invitation cards may also bring some added surprise to the recipient of the basket. Small picture frames and albums could also add more fun to your baby gift basket. Surely, this sweet gesture will be appreciated.

Gourmet food, wines and other fine food may also be placed inside a baby gift basket for the parent's celebration.

Oftentimes, bows and ruffles adorn the baby gift basket. But one could still be more creative by doing a decoupage of baby pictures or baby items. Other handmade crafts may add personal touch to your basket. They could be in the form of paper mache', origami, sculpture, small painting, woven or knitted items, etc.

If the one giving the baby gift basket intends to give it during a christening celebration or baptism, a small bible, silver cups and any symbolic item that adheres to the theme of the celebration and that the recipient's religion appreciates may also be placed in the basket.

A small gesture like giving out a well-thought of baby basket can surely go a long way. The recipient's smile is enough to mean a sincere "thank you".

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get quality baby gifts at http://www.babygiftsplusmore