Baby Care
Parenting can be intimidating, especially with the different responsibilities it entails. Nevertheless, being a parent is a great privilege and brings immense joy! If you're fretting about changing diapers, feeding, bathing, etc., it's time you relax! Baby care is not rocket science and if you take one day at a time, it won't seem so daunting. Moreover, here are plenty of articles to help you with different aspects about baby care.
12 Must-haves for a Baby Medicine Cabinet
Whether it is a rash, common cold, or fever, being prepared and stocking up on baby medicines can help you deal with the baby ailment in time. In this Buzzle article, we list the baby medicine cabinet essentials that can save you a late-night dash to the drugstore.
Whether it is a rash, common cold, or fever, being prepared and stocking up on baby medicines can help you deal with the baby ailment in time. In this Buzzle article, we list the baby medicine cabinet essentials that can save you a late-night dash to the drugstore.
Keep the baby safe and be prepared. This is the motto that every
parent should follow. After all, babies and toddlers are bound to suffer
from the occasional bouts of cold with a runny nose or a bad case of
diaper rash. Even when you think that you have survived the cold and flu
season, one fine day, you come home to find a feverish kid with a bad
hacking cough.
Keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet ensures that you do not have to run out to the drugstore in the middle of the night. Moreover, this arsenal of products allows you to quickly deal with common baby ailments, such as rashes and fevers, with ease. In this Buzzle article, we provide a list of things to keep in a baby medicine cabinet that are sure to provide relief during colds and make bumps and bruises feel better.
Digital Thermometer
If you are concerned that your child is running a fever, then you would definitely want to check their body temperature with a thermometer. Gone are the days when you had to use the riskier glass-and-mercury thermometer. Today's digital thermometers are less intrusive and provide the most accurate results. They use electronic heat sensors to record body temperature and can be used in the mouth, armpit, and rectum. Some people use digital ear thermometers that measure the temperature inside the ear canal using infrared rays. Although they seem easier to use, they are not very accurate as a smaller ear canal or presence of earwax can interfere with the accuracy of an ear thermometer.
Pain and Fever Relief Medication
Fever and pain are common in babies, especially ones who are teething. Use infant-formula acetaminophen and ibuprofen (for children aged six months and above) to reduce pain and fever. Ensure that the medication are infant-strength for babies under 35 pounds. For example: You need to buy infant acetaminophen containing 160 milligrams of acetaminophen per 5 milliliters as opposed to more concentrated formulas containing 80 milligrams in 0.8 or 1 milliliter. Even a small overdose can have some serious repercussions, so buy the correct concentration, and consult your doctor for appropriate dosage instructions.
Anti-itch Cream
Insect bites, eczema, and allergies can cause itchy rashes in babies. The persistent itching can leave your child restless and miserable all day. Oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl (Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride), and topical steroids, such as 1% hydrocortizone cream, can help control the itching. The AVEENO 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream with ACTIVE NATURALS Triple Oat Complex provides relief from itching caused by eczema rashes or skin inflammation. Calamine lotion also provides relief from itching caused by certain rashes and insect bites.
Gas Drops
Excessive gas in babies can lead to discomfort and a lot of sleepless nights for you. To calm a fussy baby and provide relief from the painful symptoms of excess gas caused by swallowing excess air while bottle feeding or eating certain foods, you can try gas drops. Orally administered, Simethicone gas drops helps break up gas bubbles in the gut, and provides safe, gentle relief from gas discomfort in minutes. MYLICON Infant Gas Drops and Little Remedies For Tummys Gas Relief Drops are two popular OTC gas relief drops available in the market.
Humidifier
Since over-the-counter medication for cough and cold are considered unsafe for babies under the age of four years, you can use a humidifier or a cold-mist vaporizer to relieve symptoms of cold. The humidifier adds moisture to the air and relieves congestion from common cold, flu, and sinus infections. Although both warm mist as well as cold mist humidifiers are available in the market, it is best to use the cold mist variant that humidifies your home, and prevents risk of burns or injuries.
Diaper Rash Cream
No matter how careful you are or how many times you change diapers, most babies are bound to get diaper rashes once in a while. Thankfully, there are products that soothe a baby's sore skin or form a protective barrier. Diaper rash creams or ointments contain zinc oxide or petrolatum to provide an effective barrier. Some have ingredients such as cocoa butter and castor seed oil that soothe and heal the diaper rash. Some excellent diaper rash creams include DESITIN Rapid Relief Zinc Oxide Diaper Rash Cream and Boudreaux's Butt Paste.
Oral Rehydration Salts
When a baby has diarrhea or is vomiting continuously, dehydration can pose a problem. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are used to prevent the dehydration. Commercially-available oral rehydration salts have to be mixed with water to make this solution. This solution is then fed in small amounts at regular intervals to prevent dehydration.
Nasal Aspirator and Saline Spray
Is your child having trouble breathing due to the cold? Unlike adults, babies cannot clear their nasal passages that are blocked due to the excess mucus produced during cold. The mucus buildup can make it difficult for the baby to breathe, and can even cause gagging. To prevent this, you need to use a nasal aspirator. The device creates suction to clear the nasal passages and makes it easier for the child to breathe. Additionally, a saline spray works to loosen up the mucus, making it easier to dislodge the mucus. Some excellent nasal aspirators in the market are NoseFrida the Snotsucker Nasal Aspirator and Graco NasalClear Battery Operated Nasal Aspirator.
Antibiotic Ointment
Small scrapes, burns, and cuts should be cleaned and then treated with an antibiotic ointment. This prevents the wound getting infected. A dab of triple-antibiotic ointment, such as NEOSPORIN, can also speed the healing of the wound.
Medicine Syringe
Medicine syringes and dispensers provide an accurate measurement for liquid medication. Our household utensils cannot provide standard measurements. This is why you need calibrated medication syringes and calibrated droppers to ensure that you provide the proper dosage to your child.
Bandages and Sterilized Cotton Balls
For bleeding and small open wounds, you need to keep adhesive bandages and gauze pads in various sizes. A standard fare in any well-stocked baby medicine cabinet, these bandages protect the cuts from dirt, bacteria, and friction. Some of them have antiseptic properties that hasten the healing process. Along with bandages, you will also need sterilized cotton balls to clean the wound.
Alcohol Wipes
Keep a box of alcohol wipes to clean and disinfect thermometers and the skin around the wounds. These are much safer than rubbing alcohol, which can be accidentally swallowed by a child.
Other Items You May Need
★ Tweezers, to remove splinters or stingers
★ Scissors and safety pins
★ Small flashlight for checking the baby's nose and ears
★ Baby-safe insect repellent
★ A pair of baby nail clippers
★ Cold packs
★ Cotton swabs to clean the ears
Also keep a list of emergency contact numbers, such as the closest hospital, family doctor, poison control, etc., in the medicine cabinet. Keep the medicine cabinet out of the child's reach.
Keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet ensures that you do not have to run out to the drugstore in the middle of the night. Moreover, this arsenal of products allows you to quickly deal with common baby ailments, such as rashes and fevers, with ease. In this Buzzle article, we provide a list of things to keep in a baby medicine cabinet that are sure to provide relief during colds and make bumps and bruises feel better.
Digital Thermometer
If you are concerned that your child is running a fever, then you would definitely want to check their body temperature with a thermometer. Gone are the days when you had to use the riskier glass-and-mercury thermometer. Today's digital thermometers are less intrusive and provide the most accurate results. They use electronic heat sensors to record body temperature and can be used in the mouth, armpit, and rectum. Some people use digital ear thermometers that measure the temperature inside the ear canal using infrared rays. Although they seem easier to use, they are not very accurate as a smaller ear canal or presence of earwax can interfere with the accuracy of an ear thermometer.
Pain and Fever Relief Medication
Fever and pain are common in babies, especially ones who are teething. Use infant-formula acetaminophen and ibuprofen (for children aged six months and above) to reduce pain and fever. Ensure that the medication are infant-strength for babies under 35 pounds. For example: You need to buy infant acetaminophen containing 160 milligrams of acetaminophen per 5 milliliters as opposed to more concentrated formulas containing 80 milligrams in 0.8 or 1 milliliter. Even a small overdose can have some serious repercussions, so buy the correct concentration, and consult your doctor for appropriate dosage instructions.
Anti-itch Cream
Insect bites, eczema, and allergies can cause itchy rashes in babies. The persistent itching can leave your child restless and miserable all day. Oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl (Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride), and topical steroids, such as 1% hydrocortizone cream, can help control the itching. The AVEENO 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream with ACTIVE NATURALS Triple Oat Complex provides relief from itching caused by eczema rashes or skin inflammation. Calamine lotion also provides relief from itching caused by certain rashes and insect bites.
Gas Drops
Excessive gas in babies can lead to discomfort and a lot of sleepless nights for you. To calm a fussy baby and provide relief from the painful symptoms of excess gas caused by swallowing excess air while bottle feeding or eating certain foods, you can try gas drops. Orally administered, Simethicone gas drops helps break up gas bubbles in the gut, and provides safe, gentle relief from gas discomfort in minutes. MYLICON Infant Gas Drops and Little Remedies For Tummys Gas Relief Drops are two popular OTC gas relief drops available in the market.
Humidifier
Since over-the-counter medication for cough and cold are considered unsafe for babies under the age of four years, you can use a humidifier or a cold-mist vaporizer to relieve symptoms of cold. The humidifier adds moisture to the air and relieves congestion from common cold, flu, and sinus infections. Although both warm mist as well as cold mist humidifiers are available in the market, it is best to use the cold mist variant that humidifies your home, and prevents risk of burns or injuries.
Diaper Rash Cream
No matter how careful you are or how many times you change diapers, most babies are bound to get diaper rashes once in a while. Thankfully, there are products that soothe a baby's sore skin or form a protective barrier. Diaper rash creams or ointments contain zinc oxide or petrolatum to provide an effective barrier. Some have ingredients such as cocoa butter and castor seed oil that soothe and heal the diaper rash. Some excellent diaper rash creams include DESITIN Rapid Relief Zinc Oxide Diaper Rash Cream and Boudreaux's Butt Paste.
Oral Rehydration Salts
When a baby has diarrhea or is vomiting continuously, dehydration can pose a problem. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are used to prevent the dehydration. Commercially-available oral rehydration salts have to be mixed with water to make this solution. This solution is then fed in small amounts at regular intervals to prevent dehydration.
Nasal Aspirator and Saline Spray
Is your child having trouble breathing due to the cold? Unlike adults, babies cannot clear their nasal passages that are blocked due to the excess mucus produced during cold. The mucus buildup can make it difficult for the baby to breathe, and can even cause gagging. To prevent this, you need to use a nasal aspirator. The device creates suction to clear the nasal passages and makes it easier for the child to breathe. Additionally, a saline spray works to loosen up the mucus, making it easier to dislodge the mucus. Some excellent nasal aspirators in the market are NoseFrida the Snotsucker Nasal Aspirator and Graco NasalClear Battery Operated Nasal Aspirator.
Antibiotic Ointment
Small scrapes, burns, and cuts should be cleaned and then treated with an antibiotic ointment. This prevents the wound getting infected. A dab of triple-antibiotic ointment, such as NEOSPORIN, can also speed the healing of the wound.
Medicine Syringe
Medicine syringes and dispensers provide an accurate measurement for liquid medication. Our household utensils cannot provide standard measurements. This is why you need calibrated medication syringes and calibrated droppers to ensure that you provide the proper dosage to your child.
Bandages and Sterilized Cotton Balls
For bleeding and small open wounds, you need to keep adhesive bandages and gauze pads in various sizes. A standard fare in any well-stocked baby medicine cabinet, these bandages protect the cuts from dirt, bacteria, and friction. Some of them have antiseptic properties that hasten the healing process. Along with bandages, you will also need sterilized cotton balls to clean the wound.
Alcohol Wipes
Keep a box of alcohol wipes to clean and disinfect thermometers and the skin around the wounds. These are much safer than rubbing alcohol, which can be accidentally swallowed by a child.
Other Items You May Need
★ Tweezers, to remove splinters or stingers
★ Scissors and safety pins
★ Small flashlight for checking the baby's nose and ears
★ Baby-safe insect repellent
★ A pair of baby nail clippers
★ Cold packs
★ Cotton swabs to clean the ears
Also keep a list of emergency contact numbers, such as the closest hospital, family doctor, poison control, etc., in the medicine cabinet. Keep the medicine cabinet out of the child's reach.
Essential Nutrients Your Baby Needs to Grow
Nutrients are the building blocks for the healthy growth of the baby. Babies need to be given nutrients in appropriate amounts to prevent a deficiency and the possible health problems emerging out of it. This Buzzle article enlists the 4 essential nutrients your baby needs during his growing years.
Nutrients are the building blocks for the healthy growth of the baby. Babies need to be given nutrients in appropriate amounts to prevent a deficiency and the possible health problems emerging out of it. This Buzzle article enlists the 4 essential nutrients your baby needs during his growing years.
We all are aware about the nutrition given to a pregnant woman to
help her give birth to a healthy baby. The physician or a nutritionist
recommends a diet that ensures she is getting all the vital nutrients in
the correct amount. However, it is equally important to focus on
nutrition when the baby is born and he is capable of ingesting food on
his own. For the first 6 months, the baby gets all the essential
nutrients through breast milk, but after that, when it is time for
semi-solid or solid foods, the nutrient content of the food should be
observed carefully.
The rapidly developing organs and systems of a newborn include the brain, eyes, and the immune system. The nutrients in the food are responsible for their rapid growth and development. In this Buzzle article, we have provided a list of vital nutrients your infant needs while growing. Try to include them in your little one's daily diet.
Key Nutrients for Babies
Calcium
For kids and adults alike, calcium is the most important nutrient because it prevents brittleness in bones, which further leads to osteoporosis. A sufficient amount of calcium in the body helps infants acquire a considerable amount of bone density and develop strong bones. This prevents bone injuries when kids start with their rigorous physical activities like running around the house, climbing up and down the stairs, or even playing sports.
Required Amount: During the first year, breast milk and formula are capable of satisfying the calcium requirements of the baby. Later on, the infant needs approximately 500 milligrams of calcium per day.
Vitamins
Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K are also major contributors to your baby's healthy growth and development.
Vitamin A is essential for the formation and maintenance of healthy hair, skin, mucus membranes, proper vision, healthy immune system, and reproductive system.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.4 milligrams Retinol Active Equivalent/day
7-12 months - 0.5 milligrams Retinol Active Equivalent/day
Vitamin D contributes by helping the body to utilize the calcium and phosphorus consumed through the food.
Required Amount: 0.005 milligrams/day
Vitamin K is responsible for proper functioning of the blood clotting process in the body.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.002 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.0025 milligrams/day
Vitamin E performs the important function of preventing breakdown of the tissues, and protecting vitamin A and fatty acids in the body.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 4 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 5 milligrams/day
Vitamin C is one nutrient that performs multiple functions like, healing wounds, forming collagen (protein) that gives structure to the bones, muscles, cartilage, and blood vessels, helps the body resist infections, and enhances the absorption of iron.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 40 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 50 milligrams/day
Vitamin B12 is essential for proper functioning of the nervous system, and maintaining healthy blood cells.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.0004 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.0005 milligrams/day
Vitamin B6 helps the body protein to build up tissues, and aids fat metabolism.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.1 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.3 milligrams/day
Iron
It is a mineral that is a vital component of hemoglobin (a part of red blood cells that carries oxygen to various parts of the body) and myoglobin (a part of muscle cells that stores oxygen and several enzymes in the body). In other words, iron is a mineral that is essential for the formation and proper growth of healthy blood cells, and the prevention of anemia.
As mentioned earlier, iron is the most important nutrient that enhances brain development in newborns. Normal healthy babies have a sufficient amount of iron to satisfy their nutritional needs for the first 4 months, but premature babies may be deprived of the iron that is accumulated during the last trimester of pregnancy. This deficiency may affect their thought process and motor skills. Hence, it is important to include a good amount of iron in the diet of infants.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.27 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 11 milligrams/day
Zinc
Like vitamin C, zinc also performs several functions, and hence, its deficiency may lead to several health problems. It is a mineral that is a component of several enzymes in the body, and is involved in most of the metabolic processes. It is essential for brain cognition and development. Apart from that, it is also essential for proper cell growth and repair, and maintenance of the immune system. It also helps in the formation of blood and protein in the body, and enhances wound healing.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 2 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 5 milligrams/day
Along with these 4 vital nutrients, carbohydrates and proteins also contribute towards the healthy growth of the newborn. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for babies during their initial developmental years. If carbohydrates are not ingested in sufficient amounts, the growth of the baby is stunted, as the proteins in the body are utilized for energy production. The daily requirement of carbohydrate for 0-6 months old infants is 60 grams, whereas for 7-12 month old infants, it is 95 grams. On the other hand, proteins are essential for tissue replacement in an infant's body, and the daily requirement of proteins during the first year ranges from 9 to 13 grams per day.
The rapidly developing organs and systems of a newborn include the brain, eyes, and the immune system. The nutrients in the food are responsible for their rapid growth and development. In this Buzzle article, we have provided a list of vital nutrients your infant needs while growing. Try to include them in your little one's daily diet.
Key Nutrients for Babies
Calcium
For kids and adults alike, calcium is the most important nutrient because it prevents brittleness in bones, which further leads to osteoporosis. A sufficient amount of calcium in the body helps infants acquire a considerable amount of bone density and develop strong bones. This prevents bone injuries when kids start with their rigorous physical activities like running around the house, climbing up and down the stairs, or even playing sports.
Required Amount: During the first year, breast milk and formula are capable of satisfying the calcium requirements of the baby. Later on, the infant needs approximately 500 milligrams of calcium per day.
Vitamins
Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K are also major contributors to your baby's healthy growth and development.
Vitamin A is essential for the formation and maintenance of healthy hair, skin, mucus membranes, proper vision, healthy immune system, and reproductive system.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.4 milligrams Retinol Active Equivalent/day
7-12 months - 0.5 milligrams Retinol Active Equivalent/day
Vitamin D contributes by helping the body to utilize the calcium and phosphorus consumed through the food.
Required Amount: 0.005 milligrams/day
Vitamin K is responsible for proper functioning of the blood clotting process in the body.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.002 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.0025 milligrams/day
Vitamin E performs the important function of preventing breakdown of the tissues, and protecting vitamin A and fatty acids in the body.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 4 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 5 milligrams/day
Vitamin C is one nutrient that performs multiple functions like, healing wounds, forming collagen (protein) that gives structure to the bones, muscles, cartilage, and blood vessels, helps the body resist infections, and enhances the absorption of iron.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 40 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 50 milligrams/day
Vitamin B12 is essential for proper functioning of the nervous system, and maintaining healthy blood cells.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.0004 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.0005 milligrams/day
Vitamin B6 helps the body protein to build up tissues, and aids fat metabolism.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.1 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 0.3 milligrams/day
Iron
It is a mineral that is a vital component of hemoglobin (a part of red blood cells that carries oxygen to various parts of the body) and myoglobin (a part of muscle cells that stores oxygen and several enzymes in the body). In other words, iron is a mineral that is essential for the formation and proper growth of healthy blood cells, and the prevention of anemia.
As mentioned earlier, iron is the most important nutrient that enhances brain development in newborns. Normal healthy babies have a sufficient amount of iron to satisfy their nutritional needs for the first 4 months, but premature babies may be deprived of the iron that is accumulated during the last trimester of pregnancy. This deficiency may affect their thought process and motor skills. Hence, it is important to include a good amount of iron in the diet of infants.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 0.27 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 11 milligrams/day
Zinc
Like vitamin C, zinc also performs several functions, and hence, its deficiency may lead to several health problems. It is a mineral that is a component of several enzymes in the body, and is involved in most of the metabolic processes. It is essential for brain cognition and development. Apart from that, it is also essential for proper cell growth and repair, and maintenance of the immune system. It also helps in the formation of blood and protein in the body, and enhances wound healing.
Required Amount:
0-6 months - 2 milligrams/day
7-12 months - 5 milligrams/day
Along with these 4 vital nutrients, carbohydrates and proteins also contribute towards the healthy growth of the newborn. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for babies during their initial developmental years. If carbohydrates are not ingested in sufficient amounts, the growth of the baby is stunted, as the proteins in the body are utilized for energy production. The daily requirement of carbohydrate for 0-6 months old infants is 60 grams, whereas for 7-12 month old infants, it is 95 grams. On the other hand, proteins are essential for tissue replacement in an infant's body, and the daily requirement of proteins during the first year ranges from 9 to 13 grams per day.
Tips for Choosing the Right High Chair for Your Baby
Choosing the right high chair for your baby can get very confusing and difficult, owing to varieties of this product that are available in the market. Keeping that in mind, this article presents some tips that will surely come in handy when you are looking at your options and trying to decide which high chair is the best for your baby.
Choosing the right high chair for your baby can get very confusing and difficult, owing to varieties of this product that are available in the market. Keeping that in mind, this article presents some tips that will surely come in handy when you are looking at your options and trying to decide which high chair is the best for your baby.
A high chair is necessary for your baby once she is ready for solid
food. The best thing about a high chair is that you can easily strap
your baby in it and feed her properly. These chairs are helpful not only
while feeding, but also if you are planning to start teaching your baby
to identify shapes and textures.
Your baby will be spending a lot of time in this chair. So, choosing the right high chair is of utmost importance. Buzzle understands every mother's concern towards the safety and comfort of her baby, and therefore, has compiled all the useful tips on how to choose the best high chair for your little bundle of joy.
High Chair Selection Pointers
The Types
Knowing and understanding the types of high chairs available in the market is very important. It makes the selection process much easier. Depending on your needs and space constraints, make your purchase. The types of high chairs available are:
Basic metal- or plastic-frame high chairs are very simple to look at, as they are just molded plastic chairs with the option of seat belts, trays, wheels, and cushioning. They are not heavy on the pocket and are light in weight, but are not very safe or comfortable for your baby.
Full-featured high chairs are equipped with features like wheels to roll the chair from place to place, cushioned seats with safety belts, detachable trays, height adjustments, and reclining options. They are on the expensive side due to all the features that they provide.
Portable and hook-on high chairs are those that are not freestanding, and can be hooked on to the table. They can be moved and stored easily, and they do not take too much of space. The best part about this type of high chair is that it can be attached to a regular chair, and it costs less than a regular high chair.
Wooden high chairs look awesome, but are full of drawbacks. They are expensive, heavy, uncomfortable for your baby as the seat is too deep, the footrest is too low, and it is not very safe. These chairs are difficult to clean because they are made of wood and also because these chairs have too many crevices where crumbs can get lodged easily. This factor makes it a bad choice for babies.
Safety
After you know and understand the types, safety is the next important concern. Make sure to buy a high chair that has the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) approval stamp on it. Apart from the JPMA stamp, look for safety features as mentioned below.
◆ Look out for blunt edges, points, and projections so that your baby does not sustain any injury, while in the chair.
◆ Opt for a chair with a sturdy construction and good stable balance so that your baby does not tip over or fall.
◆ The legs of the baby chair should spread wider than all the other parts of the chair.
◆ There should be no gaps, traps, or crevices, where your baby's fingers and food might get stuck.
◆ The chair should not have small parts that can be a choking hazard for your baby.
◆ A secure locking mechanism should be present to keep the baby in place, the chair from collapsing, and operable only for parents.
◆ Wheels with a 'lock and hold' feature are the best.
◆ Go in for an adjustable 5-point harness that goes over the baby's shoulders, between the legs, and around the waist to prevent her from slipping out or standing up, while in the chair.
◆ Choosing a chair with a crotch restraint is also very important.
◆ The back and side of the chair should not have very large gaps.
◆ The high chair should be devoid of pinch points to avoid your baby's limbs from getting injured. This point also directly benefits parents, as even they might get their fingers pinched while adjusting or folding the chair.
◆ The chairs should be made of non-toxic material. Even the paints and glue used in the chair should be made from the same.
Other Features
After you check all the safety features thoroughly, you should also think about other features that you would like to have for your baby's chair. Things like size of the tray, ease of cleaning, adjustability, storage, comfort, and cost are also very important factors in determining your purchase.
Tray and Cleaning
Look for a chair that has an easily removable and adjustable tray. Also, the tray should be big and void of concavities and angular ridges. Choose a tray that has a high, curved rim. Selecting a tray that does not have any indentations for cup holders, or an angular rim is for the purpose of easy cleaning. The tray should easily fit in the dishwasher or sink, and should have a dishwasher-safe cover. Apart from the tray, even the chair, seat, harness, and legs should not have too many areas that are hard to clean. The seat and harness should be detachable, and you should be able to wash them in a washing machine.
Adjustments and Storage
The height of the high chair and the tray placement should be adjustable. A sturdy locking facility should be present in every adjustment. Another factor that should be taken into consideration is that the high chair should be easily convertible into a booster seat, or a small kid-sized chair so that you can use it for your baby up to the age of about 5 years. Easy to fold and keep away when not in use is a point that many new parents make. If you are new to parenthood, you should choose a chair that folds easily, which you can either keep against the wall, or one that can stand independently. Also, make sure that the tray won't be a problem for you when you plan to fold the chair. Many parents complain that they have to keep detaching the tray whenever they fold the chair, and it gets a tad inconvenient. So, choose a chair whose tray can be folded with the chair without the added hassle of removing and attaching it all the time.
Comfort and Cost
Comfort is a factor that should never be ignored. Your baby needs to be comfortable in her seat. Therefore, choose one that has enough padding to provide comfort for your little one, but still not be too difficult a task for you to clean. Like all nursery furniture varieties, the prices of even high chairs can skyrocket. Hence, choose a chair that fits your budget and needs. If you see a model that has everything you need, but makes you extend your budget a little more, think about it because your child will be making use of it till she is at least 5 years old, plus the chair has to be safe. Compromises should never be made on a child's safety and comfort.
Your baby will be spending a lot of time in this chair. So, choosing the right high chair is of utmost importance. Buzzle understands every mother's concern towards the safety and comfort of her baby, and therefore, has compiled all the useful tips on how to choose the best high chair for your little bundle of joy.
High Chair Selection Pointers
The Types
Knowing and understanding the types of high chairs available in the market is very important. It makes the selection process much easier. Depending on your needs and space constraints, make your purchase. The types of high chairs available are:
Basic metal- or plastic-frame high chairs are very simple to look at, as they are just molded plastic chairs with the option of seat belts, trays, wheels, and cushioning. They are not heavy on the pocket and are light in weight, but are not very safe or comfortable for your baby.
Full-featured high chairs are equipped with features like wheels to roll the chair from place to place, cushioned seats with safety belts, detachable trays, height adjustments, and reclining options. They are on the expensive side due to all the features that they provide.
Portable and hook-on high chairs are those that are not freestanding, and can be hooked on to the table. They can be moved and stored easily, and they do not take too much of space. The best part about this type of high chair is that it can be attached to a regular chair, and it costs less than a regular high chair.
Wooden high chairs look awesome, but are full of drawbacks. They are expensive, heavy, uncomfortable for your baby as the seat is too deep, the footrest is too low, and it is not very safe. These chairs are difficult to clean because they are made of wood and also because these chairs have too many crevices where crumbs can get lodged easily. This factor makes it a bad choice for babies.
Safety
After you know and understand the types, safety is the next important concern. Make sure to buy a high chair that has the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) approval stamp on it. Apart from the JPMA stamp, look for safety features as mentioned below.
◆ Look out for blunt edges, points, and projections so that your baby does not sustain any injury, while in the chair.
◆ Opt for a chair with a sturdy construction and good stable balance so that your baby does not tip over or fall.
◆ The legs of the baby chair should spread wider than all the other parts of the chair.
◆ There should be no gaps, traps, or crevices, where your baby's fingers and food might get stuck.
◆ The chair should not have small parts that can be a choking hazard for your baby.
◆ A secure locking mechanism should be present to keep the baby in place, the chair from collapsing, and operable only for parents.
◆ Wheels with a 'lock and hold' feature are the best.
◆ Go in for an adjustable 5-point harness that goes over the baby's shoulders, between the legs, and around the waist to prevent her from slipping out or standing up, while in the chair.
◆ Choosing a chair with a crotch restraint is also very important.
◆ The back and side of the chair should not have very large gaps.
◆ The high chair should be devoid of pinch points to avoid your baby's limbs from getting injured. This point also directly benefits parents, as even they might get their fingers pinched while adjusting or folding the chair.
◆ The chairs should be made of non-toxic material. Even the paints and glue used in the chair should be made from the same.
Other Features
After you check all the safety features thoroughly, you should also think about other features that you would like to have for your baby's chair. Things like size of the tray, ease of cleaning, adjustability, storage, comfort, and cost are also very important factors in determining your purchase.
Tray and Cleaning
Look for a chair that has an easily removable and adjustable tray. Also, the tray should be big and void of concavities and angular ridges. Choose a tray that has a high, curved rim. Selecting a tray that does not have any indentations for cup holders, or an angular rim is for the purpose of easy cleaning. The tray should easily fit in the dishwasher or sink, and should have a dishwasher-safe cover. Apart from the tray, even the chair, seat, harness, and legs should not have too many areas that are hard to clean. The seat and harness should be detachable, and you should be able to wash them in a washing machine.
Adjustments and Storage
The height of the high chair and the tray placement should be adjustable. A sturdy locking facility should be present in every adjustment. Another factor that should be taken into consideration is that the high chair should be easily convertible into a booster seat, or a small kid-sized chair so that you can use it for your baby up to the age of about 5 years. Easy to fold and keep away when not in use is a point that many new parents make. If you are new to parenthood, you should choose a chair that folds easily, which you can either keep against the wall, or one that can stand independently. Also, make sure that the tray won't be a problem for you when you plan to fold the chair. Many parents complain that they have to keep detaching the tray whenever they fold the chair, and it gets a tad inconvenient. So, choose a chair whose tray can be folded with the chair without the added hassle of removing and attaching it all the time.
Comfort and Cost
Comfort is a factor that should never be ignored. Your baby needs to be comfortable in her seat. Therefore, choose one that has enough padding to provide comfort for your little one, but still not be too difficult a task for you to clean. Like all nursery furniture varieties, the prices of even high chairs can skyrocket. Hence, choose a chair that fits your budget and needs. If you see a model that has everything you need, but makes you extend your budget a little more, think about it because your child will be making use of it till she is at least 5 years old, plus the chair has to be safe. Compromises should never be made on a child's safety and comfort.
Bathing Your Baby Safely and Easily
Many mothers keep maids to bathe their babies as they are scared and not used to handling the little one. However, the truth is no one else other than a mother can handle the baby with care. Hence, I am here to make you confident in bathing your baby safely and easily, by providing simple tips.
Many mothers keep maids to bathe their babies as they are scared and not used to handling the little one. However, the truth is no one else other than a mother can handle the baby with care. Hence, I am here to make you confident in bathing your baby safely and easily, by providing simple tips.
Baby bath time brings fun for both the baby and the mother. It
brings you closer to your baby, and produces warmth, skin to skin
contact and joy. The baby loves to be in the bathtub and play with
water. But, being in the water for very long time can be harmful for the
baby's health. Therefore, as a mother or even a father sometimes, one
has to be careful while bathing the little one. Some of you might feel
that it is easy to bathe your baby but, initially it may be difficult as
the behavior of the baby at the time of bathing is unpredictable.
He/she becomes excited and can go out of your control leading to severe
consequences. Even the accidents occurring in the bathroom because of
electricity, slipperiness, etc., are common and should be taken into
consideration. To make you aware and guide you in giving your baby a
bath properly and safely, there are some tips in the following
paragraph.
Tips for Bathing a Newborn Baby
The most difficult task is to bathe a newborn as the skin is soapy and slippery and there is no head control achieved yet by the baby. Follow the tips listed below to make the bathing easy and safe.
Decide the number of baths you want to give the baby in a week and also the time of the bath. Plan it in the morning because, warm water will relax the baby and make him/her sleepy. Newborns are supposed to sleep for maximum hours in a day. Generally, it is recommended that bathing a newborn once or twice in a week is more than enough. Between the baths, you can just wipe the body with warm water once in a day and clean the genitals at regular intervals.
The time chosen should be such that there are no interruptions in between the bath like doorbells or phone calls. I know, it is difficult to find lots of free time but, you can consider the frequency of the interruptions and plan accordingly.
Arrange for a baby bathtub and other required materials like soap, oil, warm water, towel, etc., beforehand. Clumsiness at the time of bathing might result in an accident.
The bathtub must be suitable for the size of the baby. It should have a rubber mat at the bottom to avoid slipperiness.
Bring the baby to the bathroom after everything is ready and remove his /her clothes in the bathroom. Remember, the baby needs as much warmth as he/she had in the womb because the newborn takes time to adjust to the temperature outside the womb.
Hence, the temperature of the bathroom should be approximately 75ºF and that of the bathwater should be 90 to 100ºF.
It is advisable to be with the baby in the tub, if it is a bigger size tub, to give the baby a cozy and comfort feel like the womb and prevent the baby from crying. You can hold him/her to your chest with one hand and wash the body slowly with the other.
If the above guideline cannot be followed, don't worry. You can still give your baby a proper bath. When the bathtub is ready with water, check the temperature of the water by putting your finger into it. Otherwise it can cause burns to the child. Slide the baby inside the tub carefully and hold your hand under the baby's neck.
Make sure that the level of the water is not more than 2-3 inches, which means it should reach only till the baby's belly.
Apply unperfumed soap on the baby's body except the face as it might go into his/her eyes and cause irritation. It is convenient to use disposable washcloths instead of soaps and shampoos as they are chemical free. You can wipe the face just once, at the end of the bath.
Cover the baby with a towel immediately after the bath to keep the warmth intact.
It is always better to take help from someone else for initial bathing sessions as it will be convenient and less stressful.
Tips for Bathing Toddlers and Older Kids
To bathe a toddler or even a kid older than that, is much easier than bathing a newborn only when you have control over the child. These children love to stay in the tub for hours. Hence, here are a few general tips to follow while bathing toddlers and other children.
The water temperature matters here as well because, the requirement of hot water of a newborn and a toddler are different.
You should be careful with the time span of the bath.
Make your child sit in the tub and not stand, to prevent falling. You can also sit inside and keep the child on your stretched legs.
Do not allow the kid to play in the soap water for long as it can cause rashes and skin irritation. It can also affect the genital organ severely. You can allow the child to play in the plain water for some time and then make it soapy.
In case of a rebellious child, keep talking to him/her to give comfort and make the bath longer and enjoyable.
Arrange some bright-colored toys to engage the child while you are cleaning him/her.
Never keep the child unwatched in the bathtub.
Tips for Bathing a Newborn Baby
The most difficult task is to bathe a newborn as the skin is soapy and slippery and there is no head control achieved yet by the baby. Follow the tips listed below to make the bathing easy and safe.
Decide the number of baths you want to give the baby in a week and also the time of the bath. Plan it in the morning because, warm water will relax the baby and make him/her sleepy. Newborns are supposed to sleep for maximum hours in a day. Generally, it is recommended that bathing a newborn once or twice in a week is more than enough. Between the baths, you can just wipe the body with warm water once in a day and clean the genitals at regular intervals.
The time chosen should be such that there are no interruptions in between the bath like doorbells or phone calls. I know, it is difficult to find lots of free time but, you can consider the frequency of the interruptions and plan accordingly.
Arrange for a baby bathtub and other required materials like soap, oil, warm water, towel, etc., beforehand. Clumsiness at the time of bathing might result in an accident.
The bathtub must be suitable for the size of the baby. It should have a rubber mat at the bottom to avoid slipperiness.
Bring the baby to the bathroom after everything is ready and remove his /her clothes in the bathroom. Remember, the baby needs as much warmth as he/she had in the womb because the newborn takes time to adjust to the temperature outside the womb.
Hence, the temperature of the bathroom should be approximately 75ºF and that of the bathwater should be 90 to 100ºF.
It is advisable to be with the baby in the tub, if it is a bigger size tub, to give the baby a cozy and comfort feel like the womb and prevent the baby from crying. You can hold him/her to your chest with one hand and wash the body slowly with the other.
If the above guideline cannot be followed, don't worry. You can still give your baby a proper bath. When the bathtub is ready with water, check the temperature of the water by putting your finger into it. Otherwise it can cause burns to the child. Slide the baby inside the tub carefully and hold your hand under the baby's neck.
Make sure that the level of the water is not more than 2-3 inches, which means it should reach only till the baby's belly.
Apply unperfumed soap on the baby's body except the face as it might go into his/her eyes and cause irritation. It is convenient to use disposable washcloths instead of soaps and shampoos as they are chemical free. You can wipe the face just once, at the end of the bath.
Cover the baby with a towel immediately after the bath to keep the warmth intact.
It is always better to take help from someone else for initial bathing sessions as it will be convenient and less stressful.
Tips for Bathing Toddlers and Older Kids
To bathe a toddler or even a kid older than that, is much easier than bathing a newborn only when you have control over the child. These children love to stay in the tub for hours. Hence, here are a few general tips to follow while bathing toddlers and other children.
The water temperature matters here as well because, the requirement of hot water of a newborn and a toddler are different.
You should be careful with the time span of the bath.
Make your child sit in the tub and not stand, to prevent falling. You can also sit inside and keep the child on your stretched legs.
Do not allow the kid to play in the soap water for long as it can cause rashes and skin irritation. It can also affect the genital organ severely. You can allow the child to play in the plain water for some time and then make it soapy.
In case of a rebellious child, keep talking to him/her to give comfort and make the bath longer and enjoyable.
Arrange some bright-colored toys to engage the child while you are cleaning him/her.
Never keep the child unwatched in the bathtub.
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