Again, these are some tips I received from my mailbox courtesy of Parents.com. I like reading them because they guide me and enlighten me. I reflect at those times that some articles from this website made me think again of being the parent I normally am. I do apply some tips but I guess as parents, knowing our kids, we do know what's best for them although the tips and the articles are just some ways to improve our way of rearing.
- When should you start to worry about disabilities? If your baby can’t hold his head up at 3 months, has limited neck control, and can’t roll over at 7 months, or can’t crawl or consistently drags one side of his body at a year, consider taking him to a specialist.
- Discipline Wimps: If you think you’re a wimp when it comes to discipline, some experts think that might be just fine. Rather than focus on a child’s poor behavior with mounds of punishments, you might be better off ignoring it and acknowledging and praising good behavior instead. This constant nurturing can help turn a one-time behavior into a habit.
- Cold and flu season is here. But how do you know when your baby’s symptoms are serious and how to treat them? Viruses that cause the common cold don’t respond to antibiotics, so don’t pester your babe’s doctor for a prescription. High fevers, however, typically indicate a more serious infection, so contact your pediatrician right away.
- Babysitting. When you’re spending the evening on the town, ensure all goes well at home with the sitter, too. Leave all important phone numbers, clearly communicate expectations, then cheerfully leave your little ones in her care rather than hovering at home.
- First Aid: If an unexpected illness or injury were to strike, would you be prepared? Handle your family’s ailments quickly by stocking your childproof medicine cabinet with the essentials, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, antibacterial ointment, bandages, disinfectant and alcohol wipes, gauze pads, sunscreen, a thermometer, and tweezers.
- Breastfeeding: Leakage, engorgement, nipple confusion, cracked nipples, and other issues can stand between you and your ideal breastfeeding routine. Massaging your breasts and frequent feedings can encourage milk flow, cold compresses after feeding can reduce pain, and a lactation consultant can help you readjust your baby’s latch for more comfort.
- Winter Skin: You slather your little one in sunscreen in the summer, but chilly winter weather can also take a toll on his delicate skin. Protect your babe when the temperature drops by applying perfume-free baby moisturizing cream to dry skin patches, soothing chapped lips with balm, and bundling him up in breathable layers -- don’t forget mittens and a hat!