If you want your child to learn to share start when they are infants. When your baby hands you a toy or a half eaten cracker, offering you a bite, take it happily and then return it smiling. If your child is holding a toy don't take it from him/her, not even as a joke. That will teach your baby possessiveness, just to hold tighter and tighter to the toy.

Anytime you are trying to repeat an action done by your child (any age) use positive reinforcements. It can be as simple as a smiling thank you. Why not teach your baby to a friendly person!

Labels: baby learning

Things are really starting to pick up in my baby forum! So come and join in the conversations!

www.mybabyadvice.com/forum

This really depends on your son. He needs to really be ready so that he isn't going back and fourth from pull ups to diapers. Make sure that he has used that potty at least once, and isn't scared of it. Then have him pick out some underwear and pull ups that he likes (and get a lot of them). That way he will want to wear them.

Once you do start the potty training, don't give up on him if he has some accidents. Just know that it is going to happen. Chances are he is going to be embarrassed enough that he did, so don't add to it. Just change him, and start again.

PRAISE is a key to potty training! Make sure that you are giving him a lot of praise when he goes to the potty!! He will love the feeling that he is turning into a big boy and making mommy and daddy proud at the same time!

Labels: baby diapers, baby questions

After you have your baby chances are that the people in your life that care about you are going to off to help you. Don't be too proud to accept their offer. Ask them to come over for even just an hour so you can squeeze in a nap, or if you don't feel comfortable with that then ask them if they can make dinner so that you don't have to be on your feet. Even asking daddy to do some feeding times so that you can relax, and daddy would probably like the time to bond with baby too. It really is okay to have help, you don't even have to have the room, you can stay side by side with your baby, just let someone else do the running!

Labels: babysitters

I remember reading in the Book Belly laughs by Jenny McCarthy about something that happens during labor that I never would have heard before. Be aware that while you are pushing it is possible, even likely, that you will poop on the delivery table. Though it seems embarrassing it is very common, but if you are like me that hadn't crossed your mind. I just thought that I would get this piece of information out there, so you know what to expect! Also Belly Laughs is a really great book to read during pregnancy. She has a good way of making everything that is stressful and scary really funny!!

Labels: baby books, pregnancy

Believe it or not, you are the best toy your baby could ever have! Do things together, sing dance, build with blocks. Color using finger paintings or even just with crayons. Make their stuffed animals come alive by putting on a show together! Talk to your little one about the things that you are doing and that will help them develop language skills. It is good for baby to play alone sometimes to and to be independent. That is where it helps to have good toys like the Drop and Roll Dinosaur.

Labels: baby toys

Although your newborn baby will sleep 16 hours or more in a day doesn't mean it will happen all at one time. Your baby has such a small belly and can't hold enough food to keep him/her satisfied throughout the night.

For the first couple of weeks you will probably be getting up every 3 to 4 hours, if you are bottle feeding, to feed your baby. Some Dr's will even recommend waking your baby to feed them. Check with your Dr. and see what is right for you. They may not know if it is day or night, but they do know when they are hungry!

Labels: baby sleep

There are some many bottle and nipple types it can be hard to choose which one is right for you.

You may have to try out the different styles and see which one your baby is most comfortable with. When you have a newborn you may want to start with the smallest size. After you find a style that your baby likes buy a lot of them and you will be able to replace them.

If the formula just pours out of the nipple it should be tossed out an replaced. Check the nipples on all the bottles often and make sure it is just a steady drip.

Labels: baby food

If you are starting to use timeouts and your baby is under 3, try not to use the one minute per year guideline. They need to understand what a time out is for it to work. If they are two by the time they have been there two minutes they are not going to remember what they did, and they will just be restless. Also if your baby is 18 months old, they maybe a little bit too young to begin the road of timeouts.

For your baby between 18 months and 3 years old using a time only for 5 to 10 seconds should do the trick. It is just long enough for your baby to calm down.

If your baby is resisting so to where they are and sit down with them on your lap. Keep them there until they are calm. I have to use this method on Alex some and it seems to work.

Labels: baby health

No, you don't have to get rid of your cat, but you do need to have someone else change the litter box. The litter box contains a lot of bacteria that get to your unborn baby, and if could actually cause birth defects. Also if you spend a lot of time petting your fuzzy friend make sure you are washing your hands frequently!

Labels: baby questions, pregnancy

Diaper bags are so big, but with good reason! There should be more than just diapers and wipes in the bag especially if you have an infant. Here is a list of some things you could find in a diaper bag:

• changing pad (so you have something for your baby to lay on)
• extra set of clothes (babies manage to go through a lot of clothes!)
• bib
• blanket
• snacks
• pacifiers
• toys
• diaper cream
• empty plastic bag (for dirty clothes)
• bottle of water (you never know)
• camera (if you are anything like me you take pictures of everything!!)

Labels: baby diapers

I talk a lot about reading to your baby, and chances are that I will continue to do that. The reason is that just by reading to your infant can help them so much.

Though your baby doesn't start out understanding the book, it is teaching him/her language development. Also the more that you read together the more they are willing to sit still and focus on the book, trying to understand it. In the long fun this helps them develop a longer attention span.

If they see reading as a pleasure it will help them through life so much.

Labels: baby learning

When your child gets to the age of video games, or even if someone in your house plays the games around your baby be sure that before your buy the game your check the rating and read the back.

If your baby is sitting in front of the TV while some of these games are being played, you really want to make sure that he/she isn't seeing things that he/she should be. They learn from everything, make sure they aren't learning the wrong things.

These games are getting very graphic and have a lot of bad language as well as violence. If you are getting the game for someone else and you can't decide if it is appropriate call the parent and ask if they have heard of it. If there is still a doubt, get a different game.

Labels: baby toys

Ever since I became a mommy I have looked back on all the times I babysat as a teenager. When you are looking for a babysitter and you can't think of things you think you should tell them, go back to when you used to babysit and think about think about the things you wish the parents would have went over with you.

Leaving your baby is one of the hardest things to do so I can't stress this enough: trust your gut! Alex only has two people that we allow to watch him. It is my choice to have it that way, but I am very lucky to have that choice. I am a stay at home mom so I really don't need one that often.

Labels: babysitters

Go ahead and pack you bag for the hospital early, that way when the time comes you wont worry that you are forgetting anything. Here is a list of things that you will need for you:

• Nightgown, slippers, socks
• Nursing bra, bra pads maternity underwear
• Camera and extra batteries
• snacks for daddy
• tooth brush, hairbrush, deodorant, shampoo (if you want your own, the hospital will normally provide some)
• Cell phone, charger, an list of the numbers for the people you need to call when your sweet baby is here!! Make sure the hospital you are going to will allow cell phone use.
• a going home outfit. Brings something comfy because it will still feel like you are about 6 months pregnant. I brought my maternity sweatsuit) and flat shoes.

For baby:

• Car seat! If I were you I would go ahead and have it put in your car. If you want to make sure that it is in there correctly go to your local police station and have them install it for you.
• Clothes (newborn size)
• socks
• hat
• receiving blanket

* The hospital should provide you with diapers and wipes.

Labels: pregnancy

If your baby is anything like Alex then you may be dealing with a wiggle worm when you are trying to change their diaper.

Something that I have found that works pretty well is to sing to him. I like to use the Itsy Bitsy Spider because it involves had movements which keeps his hands busy.

If you baby is a little younger, 6 months or so, maybe try using a special toy that you only bring out for diaper changes.

Labels: baby diapers

It can be hard to tell if you baby is having a nightmare in the middle of the night if they can't use their words to tell you.

Alex had his first nightmare on our vacation. I could tell by his cry that it was a nightmare. It was a very scared cry, also he is normally a really good sleeper so when he woke up like this I was pretty sure that is what it was. I went in and held him until he was calm. I talked to him and told him that he was safe.

It can be hard to tell why they nightmares I still don't know cause Alex's. We were on vacation, so it could have been because he didn't know where he was. A good way to help prevent nightmares is to have a relaxing routine. Warm bath, and a sweet book with your baby maybe even sitting in your lap!

Labels: baby sleep

If you can try to schedule the Dr. visits at a time when the daddy can be there too. He will get to share the special moments, listening to the heart beat, and seeing his unborn child move around in the ultra sound.

As strange as this may sound, talk to your baby. He/she will recognize your voices. Something else you could do together is go to a child birth class. That is just another way to keep daddy involved.

*A note to daddy*
Reassure mommy, tell her how beautiful she is, and what great parents you will both be! Also help around the house. Take some of the stress out of her life because when mommy is stressed so is baby!

Labels: pregnancy

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Products: Various Polly Pocket dolls and accessories with magnets
Units: About 7.3 million play sets (about 2.4 million play sets were recalled on November 21, 2006)

Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.

Hazard: Small magnets inside the dolls and accessories can come loose. The magnets can be found by young children and swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforation or blockage, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: Since the previous recall announcement, Mattel has received more than 400 additional reports of magnets coming loose. CPSC was aware in the first recall announcement of 170 reports of the magnets coming out of the recalled toys. There had been three reports of serious injuries to children who swallowed more than one magnet. All three suffered intestinal perforations that required surgery.

Description: The recalled Polly Pocket play sets contain plastic dolls and accessories that have small magnets. The magnets measure 1/8 inch in diameter and are embedded in the hands and feet of some dolls, and in the plastic clothing, hairpieces and other accessories to help the pieces attach to the doll or to the doll’s house. The model number is printed on the bottom of the largest pieces on some of the play sets. Products manufactured after November 1, 2006 and are currently on store shelves are not included in this recall. Contact Mattel if you cannot find a model number on your product to determine if it is part of the recall.

Sold at: Toy stores and various other retailers from May 2003 through November 2006 for between $15 and $30.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take these recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel to receive a voucher for a replacement toy of the customer’s choice, up to the value of the returned product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Mattel toll-free at (888) 597-6597 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Note: by clicking on any of the images below, you can view a larger version.
Polly Pocket Magnetic Play Sets

Item Number
Product Image
Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Hangin' Out House™ Playset
B2632

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Treetop Clubhouse™ Playset
B3158

Polly Pocket!™ Spa Day™ Caboodle Asst.
B3201

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Gameroom Garage™ Playset
B3211

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Totally Tiki Diner™ Playset
B7118

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ Boutique
G8605

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ City Pretty™ Playset (Lila™)
H1537

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ Sporty Style™ Playset (Lea™)
H1538

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ Totally Zen™ Playset (Shani™)
H3211

Polly Pocket!™ Fashion Polly™ Happenin' Pet Salon™ Playset
55503

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Magnetic Additions Assortment
B2631

Polly Pocket!™ Lunchbox Cafe™ Playset
B3203

Polly Pocket!™ School Time Fun™ Playset
B3204

Polly Pocket!™ Lip Gloss Studio™ Playset
B3207

Polly Pocket!™ Glitter Boutique™ Playset
B3209

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Dip N' Dive Pool™ Playset
B3210

Polly Pocket!™ Birthday Suprise (INTL)
B3396

Polly Pocket!™ Dazzlin' Pet Show™ Divine Dogs™
B7078

Polly Pocket!™ Dazzlin' Pet Show™ Magic Rabbits™
B7082

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Sweet Treats™ Playset
B7125

Polly Pocket!™ Mailbox Surprise™ Playset
B7127

Polly Pocket!™ Stretch Polly Disco Lamp
B7128

Polly Pocket!™ Jewlery Box Bedroom™ Playset
B7129

Polly Pocket!™ Polly Place™ Party On The Go!™ Playset
B8478

Polly Pocket!™ Spa Day™ Playset
B9521

Polly Pocket!™ Lunchbox Cafe™ Playset
B9522

Polly Pocket!™ School Time Fun™ Playset
B9523

Polly Pocket!™ Glitter Puff
B9525

Polly Pocket!™ Spa Day™ Playset
B9578

Polly Pocket!™ Boutique On The Go™ Playset
B9929

Polly Pocket!™ Mailbox Surprise™ Playset
C0504

Polly Pocket!™ Jewelry Box Bedroom™ Playset
C0505

Polly Pocket!™ Disco Lamp
C1341

Polly Pocket!™ Disco Lamp
C1342

Polly Pocket!™ Mermaid Stars™ Playset
G8602

Polly Pocket!™ Quick Click™ Playset
G8606

Polly Pocket!™ Snow Cool™ Hotel Playset
G8612

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ House of Style™ Playset
G8614

Polly Pocket!™ Totally Beadiful™ Jewelry Maker
G8615

Polly Pocket!™ Quick Click™ Penthouse
G8616

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ Movie Time™ Playset (Lila™)
H1553

Polly Pocket!™ Pollywood™ Limo-Scene™ Vehicle
J1659

Polly Pocket!™ Pollywood™ Dial-A-Style™ Lila™ Doll
J1661

Polly Pocket!™ Pollywood™ Dial-A-Style™ Lea™ Doll
J1662

Polly Pocket!™ Stickin' 2 Style™ Doll
J1670

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Rockin' Theme Park™ Playset
J1681

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Dress N' Drive™ Lounge Playset
J1687

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Theme Park Party™ Quick Clik™ Doll and Fashions
J1695

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Quick Clik™ Polly™ Doll
J4169

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Quick Clik™ Crissy™ Doll
J4170

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Quick Clik™ Lea™ Doll
J4171

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Quick Clik™ Shanil™ Doll
J4172

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Costume Cart (Lea™) Playset
J9305

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Gift Shop (Lila™) Playset
J9306

Polly Pocket!™ Twirl & Swirl™ Beauty Case
J9648

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Dial-A Song Polly Fashions
J9965

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Kerstie Fashions
J9966

Polly Pocket!™ Pollyworld™ Rockin' Tour Bus™
K3460

Polly Pocket!™ Quik-Clik™ Pool Party™ Playset (Lila™)
H1554

---
Send the link for this page to a friend! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270, or visit CPSC's web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. To join a CPSC email subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Labels: baby safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Doggie Day Care™ play sets

Units: About 1 million

Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.

Hazard: Small magnets inside the toys can fall out. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforation or blockage, which can be fatal.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received two reports of magnets coming loose. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recalled Doggie Day Care play sets have various figures and accessories that contain small magnets.

Product # & Name
H1532 Doggie Day Care Coco

H1533 Doggie Day Care Sparley

G4461 Doggie Day Care Lula and Baby

G4462 Doggie Day Care Crockett and Baby

G4464 Doggie Day Care Taffy and Baby

G4459 Doggie Day Care Snack Time with Cookie

G4460 Doggie Day Care Diaper Change with Ginger

H1530 Doggie Day Care Ice Cream with Ranger

G9703 Doggie Day Care Puppy Park with Dixie

G4457 Doggie Day Care Dream House Nursery with Honey

G4458 Doggie Day Care Bath Time with Beau

Sold at: Toy stores and various other retailers nationwide from July 2004 to August 2007 for between $4 and $20.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel to receive a free replacement toy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Mattel toll-free at (888) 597-6597 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Labels: baby safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Barbie and Tanner™ play sets

Units: About 683,000

Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.

Hazard: A small magnet inside the “scooper” accessory can come loose. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforation or blockage, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of magnets coming loose. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves Barbie and Tanner™ play sets -- model numbers J9472 and J9560. The toys include a “scooper” accessory with a magnetic end. Recalled scoopers have a visible, silver-colored, disc-shaped magnet on the end of the scooper. Scoopers with a white material covering the magnet and products manufactured after January 31, 2007 are not recalled.

Sold at: Toy stores and various other retailers nationwide May 2006 to August 2007 for about $16.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel to receive a free replacement toy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Mattel toll-free at (888) 597-6597 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Labels: baby safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Batman™ and One Piece™ magnetic action figure sets

Units: About 345,000

Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.

Hazard: Small, powerful magnets inside the accessories of the toy figures can fall out and be swallowed or aspirated by young children. If more than one magnet is swallowed, they can attract inside the body and cause intestinal perforation, infection or blockage which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm is aware of 21 incidents where a magnet fell out of the toy figure, including a case of a 3-year-old boy who was found with a magnet in his mouth. The boy did not swallow the magnet and no injuries have been reported to Mattel and CPSC.

Description: The recalled Batman™ toys include:
The Batman™ Magna Battle Armor™ Batman™ figure with model number J1944,
The Batman™ Magna Fight Wing™ Batman™ figure with model number J1946,
The Batman™ Secret ID™ figure with model number J5114, and
The Batman™ Flying Fox™ figure with model number J5115. The seven inch tall action figures include the Batman logo on the front and include magnetic accessories. The model number is located on the lower right corner of the tag which is sewn to the figure. The recalled One Piece™ toy is:
One Piece™ Triple Slash Zolo Roronoa™
figure with model number J4142.
The 5 ½ inch tall action figure has green hair, black pants, and has magnets in his hands which connect to magnets on various swords that the figure can hold. The model number is printed on the back of the action figure’s left leg.

Sold at: Discount department stores and toy stores nationwide from June 2006 through June 2007 for about $11.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the toy and contact Mattel for instructions on how to return it to receive a free replacement toy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Mattel toll-free (888) 597-6597 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Labels: baby safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately.

Name of Product: “Sarge” die cast toy cars

Units: About 253,000

Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.

Hazard: Surface paints on the toys could contain lead levels in excess of federal standards. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves die cast “Sarge” 2 ½ inch toy cars. The toy looks like a military jeep and measures about 2 ½ inches long by 1 inch high by 1 inch wide. The recalled toy has the markings “7EA” and “China” on the bottom. The “Sarge” toy car is sold alone or in a package of two, and may have the product number M1253 (for single cars) and K5925 (for cars sold as a set) printed on the packaging. The cars marked “Thailand” are not included in this recall.

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from May 2007 through August 2007 for between $7 and $20 (depending on whether they were sold individually or in sets).

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel. Consumers will need to return the product to receive a replacement toy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Mattel at (800) 916-4997 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Labels: baby safety

When you are getting a toy for your baby or even a friends baby make sure you check the recommended age on the box. Then make sure it will match the baby's interest. When you have both of those things they will get more from the toy. If you pick something for a 6 month old and the box says 18 months + that baby may just look at the toy and get confused. Try to choose toys that your baby can really benefit from!

Labels: baby toys

This seems to be a very common question. My Dr. recommended waiting until Alex was 4 months old before he got any kind of solids. We started him out with rice cereal. Once I did that he told me to feed Alex the same food for 3 days to make sure that he didn't have an allergic reaction.

We went through all of the cereals, then all of the veggies, then all of the fruits. I have Alex veggies before fruit because I thought it may help him like his veggies if he hadn't had sweet fruit yet. So far he is a big fan of both.

You should check with your Dr. so see what she/he thinks.. Every baby is different, but this worked very well for Alex!

Labels: baby food, baby questions

After your baby is born you will notice that the umbilical cord is scabbed up. It will take a week or two before it falls off.

When you are changing your new baby's diaper in those first weeks you have to make sure that you fold the diaper down so that the cord is not covered. If you find the diapers that are made just for the umbilical cord you could try those. I never did see any myself, so I don't know how well they work.

When you change the diaper it is also a good time to clean the cord. You can use water or rubbing alcohol. Ask your Dr. and see which they recommend you using. Some are saying that water works just fine.

Labels: baby diapers

When I first felt Alex moving I was about 9 weeks along. Generally it happens after 7 or 8 weeks, but with him being my first it took a little bit longer. When I first started to feel him moving it felt like butterflies!

I was 20 weeks along before I felt Alex kick. Kicking normally happens somewhere between 16 and 22 weeks. Once you start to feel your baby kicking you will notice that you don't feel it all the time. You may feel it all the time one day, then not at all the next. Once you get a little farther along the will be more regular and a lot stronger.

If you are to the point that you are feeling the stronger more regular kicks (normally second trimester) and you stop feeling your baby moving as much , let your Dr. know. They may decide to do a stress test. If your baby's movement stays about the same chances are the baby is fine!

Also in my case once we got about two and a half weeks away from Alex's due date I almost never felt him move. I was really scared, but as it turned out he just didn't have any room to move, and he was preparing for delivery.

Labels: baby questions, pregnancy

Here is a list of things to do or show your new babysitter before you leave for the first time.

• Introduce you baby to the babysitter, and if you have any pets, introduce them as well
• show the babysitter around the house. Let him/her know where the dangerous or off-limits places are.
• Leave a lot of phone numbers!! The number where you will be, your cell phone (if you have one) as well as friends or family that live near by.
• Make sure the he/she knows when to use 911.
• If you have the internet that connects through the phone line, maybe you should think about making the internet off-limits in case you need to call. You may not want the phone-line tied up.
• Let them know what TV shows and/or music is not allowed.
• Go over first aid supplies to make sure he/she knows how to use them and where they are.
• Tell them if your child is on any medication or has any allergies.
• Be sure to tell him/her when you will be home and if it changes give him/her a call. Also call at least once while you are gone to make sure everything is okay. It might make you feel better.
• Talk about visitors. Are they allowed? This one applies for both the sitter and your child in some cases.
• Go over daily/nightly routines. When do you have meals, snacks, bed time, and activities?

These are just some examples, if you can think of things that I should add please let me know and I will do that!

Need a babysitter? Find the most qualified sitters at Sittercity.com.

Labels: babysitters

New born babies can not see as clearly as an older child or adult can. It is good to use high contrast colors, such as black and white. Your baby will respond best to these colors until he/she is about 6 months old. It is easier for your baby to focus on toys of these colors, and also things with bold graphics.

Labels: baby toys

Once you find out for sure that you are going to be having a baby, there are probably so many emotions running through you. If you found out by taking one of the at home test, then you should contact your Dr. and schedule a time to go in. That first appointment isn't bad, for me, they just asked a lot of questions about my family history, then felt to see about how far a long they thought that I was. Then they gave me some folic acid and told me they would see me in a month for the first ultra sound!

If you are thinking about having a baby, or are already in the early stages of pregnancy you really should be taking folic acid. It helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. It needs to be taken before and during early pregnancy when the neural tube is developing.

Labels: pregnancy

Make tummy time with your baby fun! Lay down nose to nose with your baby, or put a plastic mirror in front of him/her. By the time your baby is 3 months you should be giving your baby about an hour of tummy time total.

If you notice that your baby isn't really enjoying tummy time try laying on your back and put your baby on your belly. Play that way for a little while. If they see you having fun, it will be fun for them! Don't give up if they don't like it right away. It may take time!

Tummy time is good for a lot of reasons. Helps baby learn to hold up thier head, gets them in the crawling position. Once they are ready to start crawling you can put a toy just a little bit out of reach and it will give them soing to reach for.

Labels: baby learning

We just recently took Alex on vacation, and luckily we brought a pack of little swimmers with us! To be honest at first I didn't think we needed to spend extra money on water diapers, but I am so happy that we did for a couple of reasons.

~Water diapers were required to be worn at all times in water where we were.
~They work! Alex played in the water for a long time and the little swimmers never once got bulky and saggy like regular diapers.

If you are planning on going to a beach or lake, or even a pool I really recommend taking some and trying them out!

Labels: baby diapers

Heart burn is a very common symptom of pregnancy. Not everyone will get it and there are ways to avoid it. Stay away from spicy foods and large meals. Talk to you Dr. about what antacid is for you. Antacids can really help, and are normally safe to take during pregnancy.

Labels: baby questions, pregnancy

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Whether it is an apartment, duplex or single-family residence, the home is a place that is supposed to give families a feeling of safety and security. For many Americans families however, an injury or death of a loved one can turn this place of happiness into one of tragedy.

Each year, 33.1 million people are injured by consumer products in the home. Some hazards are from products the Agency has warned about for years; others come from new products and technologies. To keep Americans informed of dangers, the CPSC has identified the Top Five Hidden Home Hazards – associated with products that people may be using everyday, but are unaware of the dangers that they can cause. These home hazards are often unseen or unnoticed by consumers.

“The home is where people feel comfortable and secure, but constant awareness is the key to keeping families safe,” said Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. “CPSC is aiming to increase awareness of the hidden hazards around the home in order to help consumers protect against these dangers.”

With no or very little investment, incidents and injuries from these dangers are preventable. Simply by being aware of these Top Five Hidden Home Hazards, many lives can be spared and life-altering injuries avoided:

#1Magnets: Since 2005:1 Death, 86 Injuries;8 million magnetic toys recalled.
Today’s rare-earth magnets can be very small and powerful making them popular in toys, building sets, and jewelry. As the number of products with magnets has increased, so has the number of serious injuries to children. In several hundred incidents, magnets have fallen out of various toys and been swallowed by children. Small intact pieces of building sets that contain magnets have also been swallowed by children. If two or more magnets, or a magnet and another metal object are swallowed separately, they can attract to one another through intestinal walls and get trapped in place. The injury is hard to diagnose. Parents and physicians may think that the materials will pass through the child without consequence, but magnets can attract in the body and twist or pinch the intestines, causing holes, blockages, infection, and death, if not treated properly and promptly. Watch carefully for loose magnets and magnetic pieces and keep away from younger children (less than 6). If you have a recalled product with magnets, stop using it, call the company today, and ask for the remedy.

#2Recalled Products: Each year there about 400 recalls.
CPSC is very effective at getting dangerous products off store shelves, such as recalled toys, clothing, children’s jewelry, tools, appliances, electronics and electrical products. But once a product gets into the home, the consumer has to be on the lookout. Consumers need to be aware of the latest safety recalls to keep dangerous recalled products away from family members.Get dangerous products out of the home. Join CPSC’s “Drive To One Million” campaign and sign up for free e-mail notifications at www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx - an e-mail from CPSC is not spam – it could save a life.

#3Tip-overs: Average of 22 deaths per year;31 in 2006 and an estimated 3,000 injuries. Furniture, TVs and ranges can tip over and crush young children. Deaths and injuries occur when children climb onto, fall against or pull themselves up on television stands, shelves, bookcases, dressers, desks, and chests. TVs placed on top of furniture can tip over causing head trauma and other injuries. Items left on top of the TV, furniture, and countertops, such as toys, remote controls and treats might tempt kids to climb. Verify that furniture is stable on its own. For added security, anchor to the floor or attach to a wall. Free standing ranges and stoves should be installed with anti-tip brackets.

#4Windows & Coverings: Average of 12 deaths annually from window cords;Average of 9 deaths and an estimated 3,700 injuries to children annually from window falls.
Children can strangle on window drapery and blind cords that can form a loop. Parents should use cordless blinds or keep cords and chains permanently out of the reach of children. Consumers should cut looped cords and install a safety tassel at the end of each pull cord or use a tie-down device, and install inner cord stays to prevent strangulation. Never place a child’s crib or playpen within reach of a window blind.
The dangers of windows don’t end with window coverings and pull cords. Kids love to play around windows. Unfortunately, kids can be injured or die when they fall out of windows. Do not rely on window screens. Window screens are designed to keep bugs out, not to keep kids in. Safeguard your windows: repair pull cords ending in loops and install window guards or stops today.

#5Pool & Spa Drains: 15 injuries, 2 fatalities from 2002-2004.
The suction from a pool drain can be so powerful that it can hold an adult under water, but most incidents involve children. The body can become sealed against the drain or hair can be pulled in and tangled. Missing or broken drain covers are a major reason many entrapment incidents occur. Pool and spa owners can consider installing a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS), which detects when a drain is blocked and automatically shuts off the pool pump or interrupts the water circulation to prevent an entrapment. Every time you use a pool or spa, inspect it for entrapment hazards. Check to make sure appropriate drain covers are in place and undamaged.
To learn more about these and other home hazards, and to sign up for recall information, visit our Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.
---
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270, or visit CPSC's web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. To join a CPSC email subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.

Labels: baby safety

No matter what your baby is doing they are ALWAYS learning! Whether it be playing with blocks, reading books, coloring, or even listening to music. They can pick up on tone, and language.

Keep that in mind, and pick how you talk to the people around you wisely. Try not to argue around your baby because it can really scare them.

At about a year and a half they go through a phase where they repeat EVERYTHING! We tested that theory on Alex and just randomly said "peanut butter" and sure enough he said it right after.

"Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression" -Haim Ginott

Labels: baby learning

As much as you love your baby it is normal, and even healthy to have time to yourself. Your baby needs to see that you have a life outside of what them. They need so see you happy and doing things with your significant other.

It really can be hard to get a babysitter that you trust. Once you find one, use it! Have a date night, or just use it to be alone. If you are having a hard time finding a babysitter try using Sittercity!

Labels: babysitters

If you are anything like me you probably spend a lot of time in your kitchen. Whether is it cleaning, cooking, making snacks or just getting a drink. I have some tips to help keep our kitchens as safe from bacteria as we can!

~Try to keep to towels clean, the ones that are hanging up, and the dishtowels too.

~Separate utensils for raw meat & cooked meat and raw meat & veggies.

~Keep your fridge at 32-41 degrees F to help prevent getting bacteria.

~When you have a cooked meal put it in the top of the fridge and the raw meat in the bottom. If they are put close together the bacteria from the raw meat can get into the cooked meal.

~Your baby really shouldn't eat leftovers because of bacteria.

These are some helpful tips that I have used, if you can think of more please let me know!

Labels: baby health

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firms named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer, and other children’s toys

Units: About 967,000

Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.

Hazard: Surface paints on the toys could contain excessive levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled involves various figures and toys that were manufactured between April 19, 2007 and July 6, 2007 and were sold alone or as part of sets. The model names and product numbers for the recalled toys, which are all marked with “Fisher-Price,” are listed below. The toys may have a date code between 109-7LF and 187-7LF marked on the product or packaging.

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from May 2007 through August 2007 for between $5 and $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price. Consumers will need to return the product and will receive a voucher for a replacement toy of the consumer’s choice (up to the value of the returned product).

Consumer Contact: For additional information contact Fisher-Price at (800) 916-4498 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.service.mattel.com/

Product List:
33662 Elmo Light Up Musical Pal
33664 Big Bird Light Up Musical Pal
39038 Elmo Tub Sub
87946 Elmo Keyboard
90609 Elmo Collectible
90612 Zoe Collectible
90614 Big Bird Collectible
93068 Elmo Boom Box
93307 Press N Go Elmo
93492 Cookie Saxophone
93615 Splash Tub Puzzle
B7554 Count To Beat Elmo
B7987 Elmo In The Giggle Box
B9620 Dora's Talking House
C6908 Dora, Backpack, Perrito Figure Pack
C6909 Diego Figure Pack
C6911 Boots, Tico Figure Pack
G5112 Sing With Elmo's Greatest Hits
H2943 Grow With Me Elmo Sprinkler
H3344 Birthday Dora
H5570 Elmo & Pals (Elmo, Zoe, Bigbird)
H4628 Water Fun Tote
H8237 Blue 3 Pack Figures In Tube
H9124 Chef Dora
H9186 Giggle Grabber Ernie
J0338 Diego Talking Field Journal
J0344 Go Diego Go Deep Sea Rescue
J0346 Go Diego Go Talking Rescue 4 X 4
J5936 Giggle Grabber Chef Cookie Monster
J6537 Sesame Street Giggle Toolbelt
J6763 Royal Boots And Tico
J7983 Sesame Street Tub Pots & Pans
J9692 Dora's Talking Pony Place
K3414 Diego - Talking Gadget Belt
K3580 Fairytale Adventure Dora
K4140 Toucan Motorcycle Rescue
L3194 Surprise Inside Diego Eggs
L3488 Sesame Street Birthday Figure Pack
L3507 Sesame Street - Super Boom Box
L5202 Birthday Dora
L8905 Pablo & Pals
M0352 Dora Figures Diego & Bear
M0527 Sesame Street Giggle Doodler
M2051 Lets Go Rescue Center
33663 Ernie Light Up Musical Pal
34658 Elmo Stacking Rings
39054 Sesame Street Shape Sorter
90267 Ernie Splashin' Fun Trike
90611 Cookie Collectible
90613 Ernie Collectible
90745 Construction Playset
93107 Action Fire Engine
93308 Rev & Go Cookie Monster
93493 Elmo's Guitar
93780 Music And Lights Phone
B7888 Shake, Giggle & Roll
B7989 Silly Parts Talking Elmo
C6910 Swiper Figure Pack
G3825 Dora Talking Vamonos Van
G9717 Giggle Doodler
H3343 Cousin Daisy
H5569 Elmo & Pals (Elmo, Cookie, Ernie)
H4187 Dora Figures In Tube
H8236 Dora 3 Pack Figures In Tube
H8238 Sponge Bob 3 Pack Figures In Tube
H9125 Bedtime Dora
H9188 Giggle Grabber Oscar The Grouch
J0343 Go Diego Go Antarctic Rescue
J0345 Go Diego Go Mountain Rescue
J5935 Giggle Grabber Soccer Elmo
J6762 Queen Mami
J6765 Prince Diego
J9518 Sesame Street Giggle Drill
K0617 Twins Nursery
K3571 Go Diego Go Mobile Rescue Unit
K4139 Go Diego Go Dinosaur Rescue
L0305 Dora Figure
L3215 Sesame Street Elmo Jack-In-The-Box
L5813 Diego Tub Trike
M0351 Dora Figures Dora & Kitty
M0524 Go Diego Go Talking Gadget
M0732 Dora's Talking House
M2052 Fairytale Castle

Labels: baby safety

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firms named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Pacifiers

Units: About 1,000

Retailers: Dara Linda’s Baby Bling and Jewelry Design, of Davie, Fla.; Bling Toes, of Cherry Valley, Ill.; Baby Bling Things, of Appleton, Wis.; PeaNaPod Bling and Accessories, of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and MJM Crystal Designs, of Boca Raton, Fla.

Hazard: These pacifiers fail to meet federal safety standards for pacifiers. The pacifiers’ crystals can separate easily, posing an aspiration and ingestion hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves pacifiers that were purchased from stores, decorated with Swarovski crystals, then resold to consumers. The crystals were glued on the pacifier's handle and guard. They come in different colors and designs. The chart below lists additional information about the products sold.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should take these pacifiers away from young children immediately and contact the firm for instructions on obtaining a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact the firm above

Labels: baby safety

Once you enter the wonderful world of toys you will see that almost all of them require putting together. You will also find that a lot of them need batteries that you need a tiny screw driver to get to. One tool that I recommend just keeping with you, maybe in your purse, is a eye glasses repair kit!

It may sound silly, but really it is the perfect thing. I have a very close friend who swears by it, and will not go without it! You can buy an eyeglass repair kit at Amazon.com