Let’s face it – grandma’s are younger these days – not in years, but in activities and how they live their lives. When my grandma was the same age I am now, I remember her projecting a totally different image than I do now. I couldn’t imagine her wearing blue jeans. golfing or wearing make up. Not that there is anything wrong with that and as much as I loved my grandma, I decided that I don’t really want to be like her. Wanting to be my very own grandma person is not easy, but worth it. There are a number of things to consider and takew care of and I want to share them with you:

What will your grandchild call you?

Easiest is the good old : “grandma”. But consider that there is more than likely another grandma in the picture. It was important to me that my grandson had something to call only me. So I chose “baba” – same name I called my grandma. Think about it this way – how many times in your life do you get to choose your own name?

What kind of grandma will you be?

Are you going to be the one who never says “no” or will it be your way or the highway? Kind of silly to think about it this way, actually. This point is the same as it is when you are a mom – the trick is to find the line, the perfect middle, the know when to say “no” and when to say “go for it”. And same as being a mom – you will not always know the right answer. So – don’t sweat it – remember that you have lots of experience!

Are you going to spoil your grandchild?

Of course you are – or at least you are going to try. I do have a rule for that – never, ever say “yes” when you know the parents would definitely say “no”. Never ever overrule them and never ever challenge their decisions. It’s their child and they have to live with whatever happens. If you are in doubt about this rule, just ask yourself how would it feel if you were the parent and the grandparent would challenge your decisions. And just a little note on this subject: if you have a problem with something the parents are doing, it’s OK to talk to them about it - just never, ever in front of the child!

Will you find the time to spend with your grandchild?

The answer to this one is: You absolutely have to. Look back and see how quickly your own children grew up. And if you were a working person when they were growing up, you are probably thinking that you missed a whole lot. You can make sure that you don’t miss anything your grandchild does or desn’t do. Use the phone, text, emails if you can’t visit often, ask the parents to send pictures and short videos – it’s the digital world these days! Easy and simple, but it will not replace the real visits or the real time you spend with your grandchild. Find it and make it happen – it is so very, very important.

Some time ago, I ran across The Golden Rules of Parenting – and here they are:

Seal Your Lips: You could be an expert who has a whole line of bestsellers on parenting to her name and your son or daughter will still want to do things their own way. remember that your advice and your opinions will not be welcomed, unless they are solicited! And even then it may just be solicited out of being polite – so walk carefully! And just to make sure you understand: this should read” Seal Your Lips and Bite Your Tongue”!

Love Thy Grandchild as Your Own Child - but Remember That He or She is Not Your Own: This just reinforced all the other points and I keep addressing it from all directions. It is your grandchild and it is very different than being your own child. It is there for you to love and play with – all the other stuff is the business of the parents – keep reminding yourself of that and you will be a very happy grandparent!

Abide By the Rules of the New Parents:  It is important to understand that the rules of parenting have changed since you were a parent. New gadgets, new ways to communicate, new lots of things. Pay attention to what the parents are telling you and do your best to understand and abide by their rules, because yours really don’t matter any more.

Accept Your Role: Understand that maternal grandmothers may appear to be more important. Understand that in most families, new mothers are the primary caretakers of babies, leaning on their mothers for support. Sometimes it can work the other way as well, but either side could be at risk of being shut out completely if they fail to observe and understand this. Think about yourself as being a relief pitcher in a baseball game – and stay on the bench until you are called – that’s how you will stay in the game.

Don’t Be Surprised If Old Issues Get Triggered: If you are in a situation where there are more than two sets of grandparents – I am talking about a couple who got divorced and than remarried – do not get into a competition. Even if the other side tries to do that, it is up to you not to fall into that trap. It will be appreciated if you don’t and it will avoid potentially traumatic situation.

Get a Life: As much as being a grandmother or a grandfather is hugely important, it cannot become your whole life. Stay close and connected, yet separate. Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries.

Let Go of Expectations: You may have your grandchild nearby right now, but what if the parents decide to move some distance away? Don’t take it personally – deal with it and find a way to stay in touch.

I hope you enjoyed this article – whether you agree with everything or not, send me your comments. opinions, suggestions and experiences – your input is very welcomed and much appreciated!

After years of thinking about doing what I do best, I have finally launched Mama Knows product line – in my very own online store! I can hardly sleep now – it’s like having another child!

All the products have my personal name on them – all have been developed and well tested personally by me and I do believe they make incredible gifts!

Check out the Recipes in a Jar - absolutely perfect for trying them yourself and adding them to your gift list:

Good Old Fashioned Chili

Good Old Fashioned Chili in a Jar - complete with step by step instructions and attractively packaged in a re-usable jar - perfect gift idea!

Five different kinds of bean, my secret spice and seasoning mix in a separate pouch and the result? Awesome and huge pot of chili you can easily freeze for future use.

Also available in a gift bag!

Ready to use for yourself and your family and friends or add to your Christmas list for just about anyone - perfect gift like no other!

Friendship Soup

The name says it all - this good for you gift will make a huge pot of soup, ready to share with family and friends. You just have to add it to your Christmas gift list for all your friends!

One of my favourite soups – and I took my own recipe to create one that can be packaged in a jar or a bag and readily made with very little effort! Good for you ingredients include 2 different kinds of lentils, split peas, wite rice, brown and wild rice, 2 different pasta and of course – my very own secret mix of spices and seasonings. You will also get a recipe and step by step instructions folder – it’s just a perfect gift!

Friendship Soup is also available in a gift bag:

Perfect for all your friends on your Christmas Gift list or to use yourself and share it!

Old Fashioned Chocolate Chip Cookies

A definite favourite - this recipe has been in my family for ages - and I couldn't even tell you just how many cookies I have made! I am pretty sure you will not be disappointed if you give it a try or gift it to your family and friends

If I was to try to count just how many times and how many Chocolate Chip Cookies I have made using this recipe, I know I would end up and at least four-digit numbers! You really need to try these and add them to your Christmas Gift List!

Old Fashioned Chocolate Chip Cookies are also available in a gift bag package;

Definite favourite for anyone - try there or gift them - you will not be disappointed !

Best Ever Butter Tarts:

You will be able to make your own pastry and fill it with a wonderful butter tart filling, complete with raisins! Definite and delicious baked goodness!

I calls these The Best Ever Butter Tarts – I have made them thousands of time and always with no fail result! So I decided to share and created a recipe that can be packaged in a jar or a bag – and that is what you will get! Complete with recipe and step by step folder (pastry is really not difficult to make at all!) – there is no perfect gift like this one is!

And yes – it is also available in a gift bag package – check out my online store today!

Have a wonderful time browsing in my store – you will find not only the Recipes in a Jar line – you will also find handmade unique gifts – all designed and made by me! And keep checking it out and returning regularly- I have another line of products that will show up there within the next few days!

For Minor Scraps and Bruises:

That means any breaks in child’s skin and with bleeding and some pain

Simple directions:

1. Clean with mild soap and lukewarm water
2. Treat with antibiotic cream like Polysporin to speed healing and provide a moist, healing environment to minimize scarring
3. Cover with an adhesive bandage until the wound is completely healed

Cold and Flu Symptoms:

That means sore throat, runny and stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing and achiness possibly with fever, chills, aches,m dry cough.

Treatment :

1. Drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest
2. A medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen will help releive aches, pains and fever
3. Use a cold mist humidifier and saline nose sprays for congestion
4. Gargle with salt water to soothe sore throat
5. See physician if symptoms worsen

Stomach Flu:

Can include diarrhea, vomiting,abdominal cramps,fever, loss of appetite

Treament:

1. Drink lots of fluids
2. Medician like acetaminophen or ibuprofen will help relieve fever
3. Go back to solid foods only when stomach can tolerate them
4. See a physician if child is under 2 years old and starts getting dehydrated or if symptoms get worse

Pink Eye Treatment:

Symptoms will include itchy or sore eyes, white of the eye may turn red or pink, eyes become sensible to light and possible sore throat and allergy symptoms will occur. Caution: Pink eye is highly contagious!

Treatment:

1. Keep eye clean by rinsing gently with warm water
2. treatment with antibiotic eye and ear drops should improve the condition in 1-2 days
3. See a physician if symptoms don’t improve in two days after treatment

Swimmer’s Ear:

Symptoms will include itching, pain and fluid in the ear. Decreased hearing is also possible as is redness of the ear area.

Treatment:

1. Best is to treat with antibiotic ear drops, like Polysporin to relieve the condition.
2. If symptoms worsen after 2 days of treatment, consult your family physician

Chicken Pox:

You will notice flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills and achiness, followed by the appearance of red spots that turn into blisters and are extremely itchy.

Treatment:

1. Lesions can get infected so regular washing is very important
2. You can help to relieve the itch with baking soda or oatmeal baths
3. A medicine like acetaminophen and ibuprofen will help releive fever

Minor Burns:

You will notice soreness, redness, skin blisters and peeling skin for more serious burns.

Treatment:

For more serious burns you have to seek immediate medical attention

For minor burns, follow the Clean – Treat – Cover steps outlined in the Minor Cuts and Bruises treatment direction

Hope this information was helpful to you – please send in your comments, suggestions and experiences, your input is always welcomed and very much appreciated

Do you have a little one at home who is just becoming mobile? I mean – starting to crawl around at a speed you didn’t think was possible and increasing the danger of getting to where baby should not be? I am hearing that my adorable grandson Jaxson is in that stage (and it was just yesterday that I held the little bundle weighing just over 8 lbs.in my arms!) So for all of you who have the similar situation on your hands, I have put together this article on what you need to do to prevent potential injuries and eliminate dangers lurking in your home:

How to Childproof Your Home:

Here is a little test you may want to partake in – take a crawl through your home on your hands and knees. Remember that kids will explore their everyday environment so it will be very important to check out things from their perspective.Household injuries are one of the top reasons children under the age of 3 are brought into hospital emergency rooms and nearly 70% of the children who die from unintentional injuries at home are 4 years old and younger. Supervision is the best way to prevent injuries – but even the most watchful parents cannot keep kids completely out of harm’s way every second of the day.

Here is shopping list for you to take along when you go a visit your local grocery or hardware store to buy safety items for childproofing your home:

• Anti-scald devices for water taps (these will need to be installed by a plumber)
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors (for in or near all sleeping areas)
• Corner and Edge Bumpers (for furniture and fireplace corners)
• Door knob covers and Door Locks (to prevent children from leaving the house and entering rooms that haven’t been childproofed)
• Door stops and door holders (to protect children’s fingers from getting caught in doors and hinges)
• Outlet covers and outlet plates (make sure kids can’t easily remove them and that they are large enough so that kids can’t choke on them if they do take take them out)
• Safety gates (use the ones that are screwed into walls only)
• Safety latches and locks (for kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers_
• Window Guards (make sure you use the kind that allows for at least one window to be used as fire escape)

What to Childproof

Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before deciding what to childproof in your home:

Walls and Floors:

Are the walls in good condition with no peeling or cracking paint?

Are rugs secured to floors or fitted with anti-slip pads underneath?

Furniture:

Are bookshelves and other furniture secured with wall brackets so they can’t be tipped over?

Is there protective padding on any corners of coffee tables, furniture and counter tops that have sharp edges?

Have you checked that all used or hand-me-down equipment hasn’t been recalled?

Stairways:

Are there hardware mounted safety gates at the top and bottom of every stairway?

Are stairways clear of tripping hazards, such as loose carpeting or toys?

Have you places a guard on banisters and railings if your child can fit through the rails?

Doors and Windows

Have you installed a finger pinch guard on doors?

Have you removed the rubber tips from all door stops or installed one piece door stops?

Have you placed door knob covers on doors so that your toddler won’t be able to leave the house?

Do all glass doors in the house contain decorative markers so they won’t be mistaken for open doors?

Do all sliding doors have childproof locks?

Are there safety bars or window guards installed on upper story windows?

Are windows blinds cords tied with clothes pins or specially designed cord clips?

Heating and Cooling Elements:

Are all radiators and baseboard heaters covered with childproof screens if necessary?

Have gas fireplaces been secured with a valve cover or key?

So all working fireplaces have a safety screen?

Have any chimneys been cleaned recently?

Are electric space heaters at least 3 feet from beds, curtains or anything flammable?

Emergency Equipment and Numbers:

Have you places a list of emergency phone numbers near each phone in your home?

Are there fire extinguishers installed on every floor and in the kitchen?

Do you have an emergency ladder for the upper floors of your home?

Are there smoke detectors on each floor of your home?

Have smoke detectors been installed in the hallways between all bedrooms of your home?

Have you tested all smoke detectors within the past 6 months?

Have you changed batteries within the last 6 months?

If you cook with or heat your home with natural gas or have an attached garage, have you installed carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home?

Electrical:

Are all unused outlets covered with wall plugs?

Are all major appliances grounded?

Are all electrical cords in the house properly insulated (no broken or exposed wiring)

Have cords from lamps been bound with twist ties or special spools designed to hide extra cord?

Are there hazards, such as overloaded electrical sockets pr electrical wires running under carpets?

Are television, computers and stereo equipment positioned against the walls?

Kitchen:

Are knives, forks, scissors and other sharp tools in a drawer with a childproof latch?

Have you installed a dishwasher lock so that your child can’t reach the breakable dishes, knives and other dangerous objects?

Have you installed a stove lock?

Are chairs and step stools positioned away from the stove?

Have knob protectors been placed on the stove knobs?

Are all pot handles on the stove turned inward or placed on back burners where your child can’t reach them?

Are any bottles containing alcohol stored out of reach?

Are all garbage bags and sandwich bags out of reach?

Are refrigerator magnets and other small objects out of reach?

Are any cords or wires from telephones and small appliances out of reach?

Are child proof latches installed on all cabinet doors and drawers?

Child’s Room/Bedroom:

Does your baby’s changing table have a safety belt?

Are crib slats less than 2-1/2″ apart?

Is the crib headboard and foot board free of cut outs?

Is the crib mattress firm and flat and does it fit snugly in the crib?

Do lids on toy chests and toy containers have a lid support to keep them from slamming shut?

Has a window guard been placed on the window?

Are any night lights in the room not touching curtains, bedspreads or any other fabrics?

Does your child have flame retardant sleepwear?

Have you removed all drawstrings from your child’s clothing?

Adult Bedroom:

Are all medication bottles, coins, scissors and any other small or sharp objects out of reach?

Are windows blinds and curtain rods tied with clothespins or specially designed cord clips?

Bathroom:

Is the thermostat on the hot water heater set below 120F?

Are razor blades, mail scissors and other sharp tools st red in a locked cabinet?

Are childproof latches installed on all drawers?

Do the outlets have grounded circuit breakers?

Are toilets always left closed and is there a toilet lid lock on the toilet?

All all hair dryers, curling irons and electric razors unplugged when not in use?

Are there no skid strips on bottom of the bathtub?

Are there no slip pads under loose rungs to hold them securely to the floor?

Are all prescription and non prescription medications, cosmetics and cleaners stored in a locked cabinet?

Are bottles of mouthwash, perfumes,hair dyes, hair sprays, nail and show polishes and mail polish removers stored in a locked cabinet?

Garage and Laundry Area:

Are all tools and supplies used for gardening, automotive and lawn care stores in a locked container?

Are all hazardous automotive and gardening products in a locked area?

Are recycling containers out of reach?

Are all bleaches, detergents and any other cleaning supplies out of reach?

Outdoors/Backyard/Pool

Are all walkways and outdoor stairways well-lighted?

Are all walkways clear of toys, objects or anything blocking a clear path?

Are all sidewalks and outdoor stairways clear of concrete cracks or missing pieces?

Are all garbage cans securely covered?

Are all swing sets or other outdoor equipment securely fastened?

Is the surface beneath swing set soft enough/cushioned with material such as sand, mulch, wood chips or approved rubber surfacing material to absorb the shock of falls?

Are all outdoor toys put away in a secure, dry place when not in use?

Is there climb-proof fencing at least 4 feet high on all sides of the pool and does the fence have a self-closing gate with child-proof lock?

Have all ladders been removed from an above ground pool when not in use?

Other Safety Issues:

Have you removed any potentially poisonous houseplants?

Have you instituted a no-smoking rule in your home?

If there are guns in the home, have they been placed in a locked cabinet with the key hidden and ammunition locked separately?

Do you always supervise your child when around pets, especially dogs?

I am sure that if you go through all of these points, you will give yourself a peace of mind that you have done everything possible to prevent accidents and possible injuries to your little one! And if you have comments, more ideas or suggestions, please let me know – your input is always welcomed!

It is now well established that father’s involvement in child’s life is extremely important. Father’s interest increases child’s social development, sense of self-worth and academic success. And as important as women’s part in all aspects of child’s life is, man’s involvement and impact is equally as important but different:

• Father is the first “stranger” in the child’s life, unlike mothers, who children feel as an “extension” of themselves.

• Good relationship with this “stranger” sets the groundwork for dealing wit strangers later in life. Father plays a crucial role  in children’s emotional health and the development of their sense of self-worth.

• As children grow older, fathers tend to push them to take chances in situations in which mothers may tend to urge more caution. Both of these approaches are critical to child’s balanced development.

• Dads – of course – provide something that moms can’t – a model of what it is like to be a man. Children will learn more from what they see fathers to do than what they hear them say. Both – actions and communication are important, showing how man conducts himself with dignity, integrity and respect for others.

• Girls also rely on their fathers to develop a sense of  their own femininity. Girl’s relationship with the opposite sex will be greatly influenced by how she gets along with the first male in her life – her dad. Daughter will learn from her dad that she is worth being loved by a man. If dad has a loving relationship with her daughter, chances are that she will have a very good relationship with her partner later in life.

• One of the most effective way of being an involved father is to ensure direct and real one-on-one conversations with the child, creating a real two-way communication.

• A father who is genuinely engaged in raising his children is doing great stuff not just for his children, but for himself as well.

Remember this:

Kids are sponges who soak up love – and when they have enough of it, they are not shy about giving it back to you

Happy Father’s Day!

]]> http://www.mama-knows.com/parenting-tips/the-special-role-of-fathers.html/feed 3 http://www.mama-knows.com/uncategorized/20-tips-for-new-dads.html http://www.mama-knows.com/uncategorized/20-tips-for-new-dads.html#comments Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:46:44 +0000 Hanna Trafford http://www.mama-knows.com/?p=1836

Some Great Tips for New Dads!

As Father’s Day approaches, I thought it would be appropriate to pass on a few words of wisdom, directed at new dads. Becoming a parent is one of the biggest life changing events and I am pretty sure that it is totally impossible to fully explain just how much of a change will take place. But what is important is to remember just what a wonderful change it is and take in some words of experience from people like me – because I always said and will always say that having children is the absolutely the most rewarding and the best part of life!

20 Tips for New Dads

1. Remember your relationship: Once the baby enters the world, your relationship is likely to change. Now is the time to cement the love that you have for each other and talk about the demands that will be upon you both after the birth. Act now to remind each other of romance and the partnership that you share.
2. Remember that babies aren’t really breakable. Don’t be afraid to hold yours! Ask someone who is around to show you some great holds for little ones whether it be a midwife, doctor, nurse, doula, mom, relative, friend, etc.
3. If you are feeling left out talk to your partner about it. Chances are it’s not on purpose.
4. New moms often have emotional ups and downs that are not predictable. Be supportive and offer an ear when possible. Learn the warning signs of postpartum depression and seek help if the situation is heading out of control.
5. Support her with breastfeeding. Tell her that you’re proud of her and protect her from well meaning but negative comments about breastfeeding. Take a breastfeeding class during the prenatal period if possible.
6. Help with the other children or household. Remind mom to let the house go and to focus on her recovery and the new baby.
7. New dads can also experience the blues or postpartum depression. Much in your life has changed and its important to realize this and get help if you need it as well.
8. If you need help ask for it. Know who to call in your area for help and support whether it be a doctor or midwife, a postpartum doula, lactation consultant, or the local babysitter. And don’t ever be ashamed to go for help to your family – admitting that you may need help shows that you care and nothing other.
9. Mom is going to need extra sleep and care while her body recovers. Get up with the baby when you can. Bring the baby to her in the middle of the night if possible. If you must go back to work check in with her during the day. Perhaps surprise her with some healthy take out food or fresh flowers.
10. Remember that adding a new baby to the mix is always going to stir your life up a bit, even if it’s not your first baby. Learning to live with another human being takes time. Give yourself a break if you need it as well.
11. Take an interest: Browsing the baby aisle at the supermarket may not be your idea of retail therapy but your partner will swoon at the very sight of pretty bibs, adorable bootees and colorful linen. If she asks your opinion, try to give a well-formed one instead of shrugging “I don’t know, Darling”.
12. Attend doctor’s visits: You won’t know the wonder of seeing your very own baby growing and developing unless you go along to visits to the doctor. Why not go out for lunch afterwards and make a real event of it?
13. Share in the care: On nights when you have to work the next day, your sleep is important but when you have the next day off, it can be a huge relief to take over the night feeds or, if your partner is breastfeeding, keep her company during feeds.
14. Help around the house: If you haven’t been a housework helper in the past, now is the time to change that, even if it’s until your partner is feeling like her old self again. Doing the shopping, vacuuming the floor and preparing meals are huge contributions at this point in time.
15. Change diapers: Come on, it’s not that hard! Imagine if you were left to change every single diaper. Taking a break from it is a delight so if you can afford your partner that opportunity now and then, she’ll adore you. Remember that the only thing you can’t do is breastfeed. You can change diapers, soothe a crying baby, carry the baby, play with the baby, anything the baby needs done.
16. Be the hero: Contrary to the popular image of besotted, doting mothers, new Moms are often tired, stressed and hard to please. This passes so do your best to bear with it and maintain your understanding nature. Defend her to others and be her hero as much as possible. This will ensure that life returns to normal peacefulness sooner rather than later.
17. Try to be home on time: Work is vital to keep the income flowing in, but right now, you also need to concentrate on that work/life balance. Make every effort to be home on time until a routine is established.
18. Get to know your beautiful child: You have a new son or daughter. The responsibility can seem overwhelming but don’t forget to enjoy him or her. Every day is a precious gift so spend time getting to know your little one. Play, talk, feed, watch … they change very quickly, don’t miss out.
19. Count your blessings: Look around you. You have a partner who has given you the gift of a son or daughter and you yourself have helped to create a brand new life. Whether you have the world at your feet or you are making do with second hand nursery furniture, be thankful for what you have and encourage your family to feel that way as well.
20. Be the Dad you want to be: Not every father is hands-on and not all new Dads go ga-ga over tiny babies. What matters is that you can be relied upon and that you love your family. Compromises can always be made on specific roles and tasks.

Enjoy your family and revel in how it makes you feel. One day you may want to create another little addition so pave the way now for a comfortable, secure relationship by being a great Dad today.

This little darling is my brand new grandson Jax - precious and beautiful even during this demonstration

First – let’s get one thing straight: Crying is your new baby’s only way to communicate with you. And for sure – at first, it can be very difficult and distressing for you, But remember that a large part of parenting is trial and error and you will soon learn to anticipate and interpret your baby’s needs. It is important to remember that no baby has ever cried himself to death. it will help you to know how to interpret what each cry means – and you will learn that very quickly the more time you spend with your baby.

Reasons babies cry:

I am hungry: Usually stops when food is in the mouth, but some babies will continue complaining so keep on feeding. Sometimes baby will cry instead of closing their mouth, so may help by gently pushing the lower jaw up to close the mouth.

I am wet or dirty: Some babies will let you know when their diaper is full and need changing – especially when they poop. Others are not bothered and can actually be quite comfortable for quite a while – the aroma will likely alert you to action.

I am cold – I am hot: Not all babies like to be naked and they cannot sleep comfortably when their feet are cold. Sometimes swaddling or just putting a blanket over their feet will stop them from crying. Sometimes a pacifier will help. Most babies are likely to complain when they are too hot – and you will only recognize it when you see that his face is flushed or that he is sweaty.

I want to be cuddled: All babies do not a lot of cuddling but they also vary a lot in how much they want to be held. There is no such thing as spoiling your baby by cuddling. Babies grow up so fast and before you know it, they are too big or too heavy to carry and cuddle.

I am not comfortable; This is usually due to the position or something that is irritating him. As the baby gets bigger, he will be able to push himself into different positions – but may need help when he ends up where he can’t get out of.

I don’t feel good: The cry of a sick baby is very disctinct form the cry of hunger or frustration and you will recognize when your baby does not sound right and needs medical attention.

I can’t take it anymore: Babies can become over stimulated from the noise and being passed from hand to hand and crying is the only way to say:”I have enough”. Some babies may even have nightmares during the night from over stimulation

It’s too quiet: Babies do not live in a silent world in the womb. Many new parents try to make it so silent that they whisper and tiptoe when baby is asleep and then they wonder why the baby wakes up crying. Babies will slepp better when there are soothing sounds so keep the radio on and let the DJ bore him to sleep.

None of the above: Pretty much all newborn babies have periods of fusiness when it is difficult to soothe them and you just cannot figure out what to do. And all mothers will confirm that if you decide to take the baby to the doctor, becuase you are totally sure that he is sick, the moment you walk into doctor’s office, your little darling will be perfectly OK.  That is not to say that you shouldn’t seek medical attention when your baby appears to be not well – just don’t run there every time you can’t figure out why your baby keeps on crying.

I do hope this little write-up will help – there is nothing better than a happy, content little person. Just keep remembering – all babies will cry, they will even scream their heads of at time – that is a part of life.

Here are some samples of handmade baby blankets that just sold from:

http://stores.ebay.ca/momshoneypot

White Crotchet Baby Blanket

Handmade - Crotchet Blanket for Baby Boy

Two-tone Handmade Blanket for Baby Boy

Two-tone Handmade Blanket for Baby Girl

Handmade Rainbow Colours Baby Blanket

Multicolour Handmade Blanket for Baby Boy or Girl

For more one-of-a-kind handmade items for babies and toddlers, please make sure you visit:

http://stores.ebay.ca/momshoneypot

Broccoli and Cauliflower:

Place about 1/2 lb. of broccoli or cauliflower florets into a steamer and cook for about 10 minutes – until tender. You can use either one of these vegetables or mix them half and half. When tender, drain,cool slightly and puree. You can use little of the water from pot below your steamer if you need to make the puree thinner. This also works well with potatoes, carrots ot sweet potatoes.

Corn on the Cob:

Remove the outer husk and silk from the corn on the cob and rinse the cob well. Cover with boiling water and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Strain and then remove the kernels of corn using a sharp knife. Puree in your blender. You can also cook 1 cup of frozen corn and then puree. You can combine corn with carrot, leek, potato and little bit of cooked chicken meat to create a complete dinner meal for your baby.

Zucchini:

Place 2-3 small trimmed and sliced zucchini in a steamer and cook for about 10 minutes or until tender. Alternatively, put into a pan with enough water to cover, bring to a boil and simmer for about 6 minutes. Drain and blend to puree. Zucchini makes a great combination meal with sweet potato or leek, potato and peas.

Peas:

You can easily use frozen peas as it is as nutritious as the fresh variety. Cover 1-1/2 cups of peas with water, bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 4 minutes or until tender. If you are using fresh peas, you will need to cook them for about 15 minutes. Drain, reserving some liquid, then puree. Use your saved liquid to make your puree the consistency you want. You can also make this puree in a combination with potato, carrot or sweet potato.

Spinach:

Carefully wash 1 cup of baby spinach leaves, removing tough stems. Either steam the spinach (that is preferable) or put in a saucepan and sprinkle with little water. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until leaves are wilted. Gently press out any excess water, then puree in a blender. You can combine spinach with potato, sweet potato ot butternut squash.

Tomato:

Peel, seed and roughly chop 2 med8um tomatoes. Melt a pat of unsalted butter in a saucepan and saute until mushy. Puree in a blender and try combining it with potato, cauliflower or zucchini. You can also add a little grated cheese, melted into the cooked tomatoes.

For more Homemade Baby Food Recipes, please check out:

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You can get quite creative with making fruit purees for your baby. It is a great way to include vitamins into the baby’s diet and generally, your baby will like the taste. I would recommend tasting your fruits first – ones such as apricots can be little sour so mix them with fruit that is naturally sweet – like a mango. If you choose rips fruit, you will not have to worry about sweetness.

Try these variations:

Apricot Puree: Peel 2 large apricots same way you would peel a peach or nectarine and place into blender to puree. If you like to sweeten this, you can add half a banana. Apricots are rich in beta-carotene and are a great source of iron and potassium.

Mango Puree: Peel your fruit and slice down each side of the pit, Cut the flesh of half mango into cubes and puree in your blender. This puree also combines well with banana, strawberry or yogurt.

Melon Puree: remove all seeds form a small wedge of melon and cut flesh away from skin, discarding the greener flesh near the skin. Mash or blend to puree to desired consistency. This puree can be nicely combines with a banana or a few strawberries. Cantaloupes are the most nutritious of all melons – they are rich in vitamin C and also provide beta-carotene and potassium.

Peach or Nectarine Puree: Peel a small, ripe peach or nectarines and chop the flesh, then puree in a blender or mash with a fork. This puree also works well combines with strawberries, bananas or blueberries.

Plum Puree: Peel a large plum the same way you would peach or a nectarine and chop the flesh. Plums can be easily pureed uncooked if the are sufficiently ripe and juicy – or you could steam them for a few minutes until tender, This puree combines well with baby rice, banana or yogurt.

For more Homemade Baby Food recipes and ideas, please check out:

http://www.mama-knows.com/parenting-tips/homemade-baby-food.html