How to patch a hole on an inflatable bath tub for infants?

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Lux Lucis

We have this inflatable bath tub that has holes in it. The material is similar to that of an inflatable pool toy (Not the transparent kind). The holes are pretty small, looks more like a dog chewed on it than it does a rip.

Answer
Try a bicycle inner tube repair kit.

do you plan to buy lots of new things when your baby is born?

stripedboo

Having a baby can cost a lot, but I think it's just because people want to buy the absolute newest car seat crib stroller etc, not to mention the newest toys cute clothes, little baby socks and shoes etc.

I would just go get everything at a second hard store or better yet hand me downs from the many people I know who have had babies in the last year.

Also the big question. Cloth diapers or pampers? Pampers are certainly more convenient, but they cost money AND theyre terrible for the environment.

Thoughts?

Answer
Before my baby arrived I did not buy anything new. Here is where my stuff came from.

Craig's List
Crib (3 in one) $75
dresser $50

Freecycle.org
Clothes ranging in sizes from newborn to 18 months

Family friend (that has 2 toddlers)
Swing & bouncy chair
car seat & play pen
several toys (ranging from 3 months to toddler ages)
bottles
safety gates
infant bath seat
bath chair (for older babies)
bath towels & wash cloths
blankets & burp cloths
and tons more that I cant think of right now

Received from friends and family (new)
bottles
clothes
burp cloths
bath supplies (soaps & lotion)
stroller & car seat
diapers & wipes
and loads more!

I don't like pampers, I use Huggies.

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What kind of things do you add to your baby registry?

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Amy

I have no idea where to begin.. or end, for that matter.

Answer
I went to babies r us and Target. At first I wasn't going to go to babies r us, but it is amazing how much more they have than Target.

First do not register for any cute clothes. That is what most people will buy you so why register and get more outfits than you will know what to do with.

Here are some things for your registry

Bottles -even if you are breastfeeding put dowm some bottles just in case.
Bottle brush cleaner
Bottle drying rack
Swing
play mat
some toys
infant tub
hooded towels
washclothes
baby bath soap- johnsons or aveeno - I love aveeno
diapers- i wouldn't put tons of size 1 or 2 (maybe 2 boxes of each and I never bought newborn diapers)
wipes
stroller and carseat- put down for an extra base if you have more than one car
blankets- i got tons of these but you never know if you will get a lot or not
socks
sleepers, gowns
onesies ( 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-9 months
high chair ( personally I love the Fisher Price Space Saver)
crib
changing table not a necessity but I love mine for changing and storage
thermometer
baby medicine like mylicon drops, fever reducer


That is all I can think of for now. Good luck

Can you share your baby shower with me?

Q. Well I was told baby shower etiquette is someone who's not related to you throws it for you.. but I'm only 17 and my friends don't really have experience with planning and throwing an actual party, along with the financial issue there. Its hosted by my mom & grandma.. is this okay?

I'm just looking for you ladies to share your baby shower experiences! Did you register? What kind of stuff did you put on you put on your registry? What kind of games did you play? What kind of food did you serve? How far along were you? Who hosted/payed for it?

Answer
Eh..honestly it's not really terrible if your mom,sister or aunt throws your shower. It's more frowned upon if YOU were to throw your own shower. (My MIL and her mother threw my shower,so technically we were related at the time.) No one ever complained about it. So I figure it was fine.

Yes I registered. I was only going to register at one place (Target or Walmart) but my MIL suggested I register at two places so my guests would have more to choose from. (And make sure who ever sends out your invitations lists where you're registered somewhere on those.)

I didn't put any bigger items on my registry like the car seat,crib and everything like that. We bought those our self. Or actually my MIL bought us a stroller and an infant car seat as my big shower present. But we did go on a purchase a convertible one for later,crib,changing table and bassinet. (I don't suggest buying a bassinet though,we hardly used it.)

Other than those things ;
-burp cloths
-receiving blankets
-clothes (I didn't register for anything smaller than 0-3 months)
-sleep sacks (aside from swaddling or sleepers these are what you use to keep baby warm at night,since loose bedding is a suffocation hazard.)
-bottles (and bottle brush)
-baby bedding (mostly fitted sheets for the crib but also a crib mattress pad - this protects if from stains due to urine,spit up etc.)
-baby tub
-baby wash ; like Johnson's Head to Toe
-wash cloths (I suggest getting some made for baby because they are usually softer.)
-diapers (Pampers Swaddlers are nice for new babies but I wouldn't register for more than 1 box of newborn size as babies tend to grow out of them fast. You'll likely use more size 1-2 at first.)
-wipes (I like Huggies the best,still use them to this day!)
-diaper rash cream (I prefer A & D)
-thermometer - just a simple thermometer,like the one that you use. (I purchased a fancy one that takes the temp on the forehead and it stopped working shortly after so it was just $50 wasted.)
-bulb syringe and saline drops
-infant tylenol
-baby vick's vapor
-gripe water
-gas drops
-teething toys
-baby nail clippers
-diaper bag
-boppy pillow
-baby monitor
-crib mobile
-small lamp (this is ideal if you want to have a low wattage light in there,it's nice to have that when you're up with baby late at night,you don't have to turn on a bright light.)
-baby carrier
-bowls,plates and baby spoons
-bibs
-sippy cups

--

We played the usual games except for one that proved to be a lot of fun and really funny. You separate everyone into groups. Give them a roll of toilet paper,some tape,safety pins and challenge each group to make a diaper onto (a volunteer in their group). Whoever makes the best one in the time frame given (like 3,4 or 5 minutes) - that team gets a prize (like candy or something because it's a group effort).

Other games that most people like are quizzes. Like you have a basket of baby items and each person gets 10 seconds to look in the basket (not touch just look) and then after everyone gets a chance to look you are timed like 1 minute to write down as many items as you can remember.

And lastly,you get a bunch of clothes pins (pink for girl,blue for boy etc) - at the beginning of the shower everyone gets a pin. IF you say the word BABY or the name of the baby (if known) - whoever catches you say that gets to take your pin. Whoever has the most pins collected at the end of the shower gets a prize.

--
Food ;

Sandwiches (turkey and ham)
Potato salad
Deviled Eggs
Vegetable tray w/dip
Sliced Strawberries (this was easier for us though because they were in season at the time.)
Pretzels
Punch and Tea
Cake

*Really when it comes too food you can do whatever you feel like. But traditionally a lot of finger and snack foods are done.

*My mother in law payed for it and her mother hosted it at her house.

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I'm 14 and i got a 13 year old pregnant?

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Brandon

I'm 14, i had sex with my 13 year old best friend who is a girl, i asked if i should do it or not on here a couple week ago, most people said i shouldn't, I'm sorry i didn't listen to those guys :'( someone please help what should i do should i tell my parents??? Can i get arrested because we're underage? She wants to keep the baby, but that means i will loose my education looking after it please help me

Answer
No you can't get arrested at least not in the US if one were an adult and the other a minor it would be different but the law is the least of your worries just hope her father doesn't shoot you. Hope she doesn't call rape. You will not lose your education looking after the baby, see your high school guidance counselor for information on what you can do. As the father you actually have no say she can literally abort your baby and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. I found out from the bottom website that you do have a right if paternity is established to prevent a third party adoption but you need legal representation. As for what to tell your parents. Tell them the truth. Come up with a plan first how much is it going to cost to feed, clothe, and childcare for the baby. How will you finish your education, get your guidance counselors help? Your childhood is officially over even if she aborts or the baby is given up for adoption or miscarries you will never be the same ever again there is no easy way out and no way out. Best case scenario Clothes $5.00 a bag prior seasons clothes thrift store in the spring or maybe the charity will have compassion on you and give you what you need. $10.00 yard sale play yard to sleep baby. $6.00 for 30 off brand disposable diapers think 60 diapers a week, or go cloth if babysitter. daycare is willing to use. Baby wash 1 tsp baking soda to 8 oz water. Baby safe detergent use homemade detergent (1 bar grated soap dissolved in 5 gal hot water) and vinegar to soften, clean, disnfect and remove odors recipies on line. Blend your own baby food or go on WIC they will provide you with formula.
Stay off the drugs (both to keep parental rights and to get into the military) graduate high school at an accelerated rate by age 17 and join the military family housing allowance free insurance (does not include dental) food allowance and clothing allowance it isn't a glamorous job and you will still qualify for food stamps but your family will be taken care of. You need at the very minimum 5 sets of clothes per baby per 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 month size and at least two warm sweaters or something. 24-36 month shirt is a newborn night gown and size 2 capris are 6 month pants cause of the diaper difference when you change to panties. You can get these clothes from a charity or a friend sho's kid outgrew it. Toys will be the least of your worries the only toys they really need are a binky and hard rubber teething ring, they love to play with non toys like matching socks and stacking measuring cups. The best infant soother out there is the womb sounds bear which you should give your child even if given up for adoption because it reminds them of the comfort of the womb and will be the only piece of you that s/he will have. You and the baby and best friend will qualify fro food stamps and WIC and clothing programs by charities. Your baby momma will need at least two maternity outfits one dress and one pair pants. Maybe her dress and shirts will stretch with her. Ask a relative like your grandmother if she can sit for you for nothing. I was older when I got pregnant before marriage and I know how tough it can be telling Dad and Mom first develop your own plan and then get your parents in on it and listen to their plan. You have a right to keep your child. And you can finish school I am 30 with three kids and I am still in college and I graduate next spring it is tough but not impossible. I owe all my financial stability to the military and I recommend that you join. You don't have to make a career out of it but it will set you on your feet financially and help you provide for your kid. Medicaid will cover all pre and post natal appointments and the birth.

First Time Mom & I Need Help On Baby Items/etc..?

Tabs

This might look a tad bit long but please help me out with at least a few!!!


So I'll be finding out the gender of my baby in about a week or so & soon I need to start shopping/collecting items for my baby. I am starting to get nervous about a few things and as a first time mom I would really appreciate some help from other parents who have kids.

PLEASE help me out if you can.

Clothing --> do I need to get a lot of 0-3 months? or should I get a few and just focus on stocking up on 3-6 mnths? I know people keep telling me that the baby will grow fast.
-->What are some 'much needed' clothing items (clothes that make life a bit easier for example: clothes that you don't have to struggle putting over their head / baby gowns// etc..)


Shoes--> Do I need them? I heard baby's hate having shoes on or that they aren't needed til they walk


Items in general such as cribs, stroller, etc---> What is NEEDED exactly? Like I know that I can live without a Diaper Genie.. but a Crib is a must! So what all do I actually need & what are the things I should avoid wasting money on?


Toys--> Should I start buying toys for the baby already? How soon do they take interest and chew on the toys?

***I have a washer/dryer so I can always wash clothes (that means I probably don't need too many)
***Husband and I are financially stable so we're not worried about the cost of things if our baby needs it.

If you have any extra advice/info -moms/dads- I'd appreciate it!!! THANKS!
GOODNESS! THANK YOU SO MUCH YA'LL FOR HELPING ME OUT AND RESPONDING..I KNOW THIS WAS A TAD BIT LONG BUT YOU KNOW I APPRECIATE ALL THE INFO AND HELP I CAN GET FROM YOU!!

Answer
Clothes:Don't even bother with 'newborn',go straight tp 0-3 months. Get plenty of vests and stick to gowns and babygrows, they are easier to handle when it comes to changing times. Babygroes are the best option, gowns tend to let too much air in and newborns need to be kept as warm as possible. Get beanies and socks, you'll be using the socks for his/her hands for a while as newborns tend to scratch themselves. Get 6-12 pairs of 3-6 months clothes.It's just enough to cover you for a few days when baby starts growing out of his 0-3 months, mine is 2 months old and already wearing his 3-6 months clothes.
Skip shoes entirely. It's perfectly useless for a child that young. You can get one or two pairs when baby is around 6 months and then you'll only be using them for when you go someplace nice and you want him to look cute.
Must haves: You will need a stoler, carseat and carrycot. Get one of those strap on carriers that the mother wears and the baby rests on her chest, we have 3 and they are SO comfortable(you can use them at around 2 months) A camping cot is very convenient, though not utterly necissary.It's great to have around when visiting friends or keeping next to your bed when the tot is sick. Baby monitors, don't be cheap because the cheap ones tend to give off so much static that you can hardly hear the baby over it.
Get a comfortable changing station, even if you convert an old dresser into one. It needs to be high enough as to not hurt your back from bending over, It's a bonus if it has drawers to keep the tot's clothes close by, it needs a changing pillow(not sure what the correct term is) and get a bin that seals propperly to keep the daiper's smell locked in.
Get a baby bath and stick to nonscented products for the fist 3 months. travel changing mats are great and very cheap. Baby bags, get at least 2, one for the car and a spare.
If you aren't breastfeeding, get a bottle warmer. I know it's not a MUST have, but it saves you plenty of time running up and down to the kitchen with a screaming infant. If you are breastfeeding, get a breastfeeding pillow, or you might have backaches from bending over all the time when breast feeding. And get a baby medi kit, it has your themometer, the suction to suck up the boogies, Measuring spoons for medicine etc.
Toys: Don't go too big. Just get a rattle or two and something that makes noise and lights. They only start being interested in shiny, noisy things from around 2 months and can't hold anything until 4 months. Besides, plenty of friends will bring stuffed toys so you won't even have to bother buying any in the begining.
Congratulations!

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How can I move without moving bedbugs in to?

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Love

I have a four month old so I'm not sure how much spraying and bombing can be done. We are getting rid of the couch which is where they were first.
We have a lot of baby stuff, and all of it is coming with us, that's a crib, loads of clothes and diapers (I stocked up before she was born), toys, both plastic and stuffed animals. Gettin rid of the stuffed animals is not an option as they are very special.
In our room there are at least 200 books, both hard and soft cover that my husband will not get rid of. Then we have a night stand, dresser, and bed frame. There are also clothes and dream catchers.
We have two infant car seats that stay in the house unless we're going somewhere. A bassinet, bouncer and a large swing that has a frame I'm worried they could get into, the christmas tree and christmas ornaments are also sittin in a corner of the living room since we have no storage. We also have a large entertainmment center but I'm going to talk to my husband about getting rid of that.
Electronics: microwave, 2 coffee pots (my husand and I drink different stuff), a hair dryer, lap tops, baby monitor, tv, humidifier and DS. How do I make sure they're not in my electronics
oh, and some of my daughter's toys are stuffed animals with rattles in those, can those be dried in high heat?? And there are two guitars, one bass one electric

Answer
It is an easy job. If you stop bites immediately and leave CO2 traps. You will kill 100% bed bugs within 3 months. You don't need to dump anything.

Bed bugs hide behind wall, under carpet, in a laptop, and in everywhere. It is non sense to kill them by chemicals or steamer on contact only and let survived bugs bite and lay up to 300 eggs per bug.

Most people don’t know how to kill bed bugs inside laptops or how to stop bites immediately even bed bugs migrate from other apartments tonight. You don’t need to search any bed bugs and should have solved bed bug problem now if you received right tool today. Click “Show more” in the video to read text and understand one-time easy method and why experts never had a chance to use such an easy and efficient method.

What's a really good convertible car seat?

armywifes3

I have to infant car seats and I know that the weight limit is 22 lbs. Should I change now are when my baby girl weighs 22 lbs?
Is it true that the safest place for a car seat is in the middle of the back seat?

Answer
ok the cosco scerina is a wonderful seat at a great price. about 30-35$. Dont' let taht fool you either. It can rear face up to 35lbs & has good support. It also has the adjuster on the front.
The middle of the back seat is the safest IF your car will let you put it there. CHECK THE MANUAL. Some cars don't.
Rear face as long as possible. If yo uare in a frontal impact & your kid is facing forward then their BIG HEADS get thrown so hard... massive neck problems... yikes. Besides if they are rear facing then they don't drop their toys as bad.
Their still to weak to have good enough support to keep their bodies from being slung.
Oh yeah, the back is higher so it has a higher max height & longer straps. Means this is the seat till the kids is about 4years old! next step is a booster!

ok if you want a GREAT site.. check here:
http://boards.babycenter.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?webtag=bcus9421

If you have the $$ a Britax is an excellent option.. but I still like my Scerena. Cheap enough I can put em in husbands car too.

Keep em in a booster till they are 4'9"!

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What should I bring when traveling/flying with an 8 month old baby?

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Jen

We are flying to Ohio for a week (2 flights about 2 hours each). I am packing, but want to make sure I don't forget anything. I have diapers, wipes, clothes, a few toys, etc. How many bottles should I bring? I nurse and pump everyday, but will probably mostly pump while we are there. Any other suggestions would be great!
We are only bringing two small carry on suitcases and the diaper bag because luggage costs so much.

Answer
I just traveled with my son who was 10 months at the time...God bless you! haha....Anyway, Things I took on the plane with me 2 hour flight plus time in the airport....Diapers, wipes, change of clothes, bib, 2 bottles, 1 can of formula, infant tylenol/motrin, orajel (hes teething pretty bad lately), Food (3 jars), spoons, snacks (cereal), sippy cup, toys (ones that don't make too much noise).

Things I brought in general for the trip....Clothes, PJs, stroller, car seat, toys, baby toiletries (soap, lotion, nail clippers, nasal aspirator, brush, diaper rash cream, baby monitors (we were staying with family, so I was able to put him down for a nap, and still go outside by the pool). Towel and washclothes, sunblock.

I bought food, formula, and diapers when I got there. My relatives also borrowed a lot of baby gear from a friend so I had things there (Pack n Play, walker, high chair).

Check your airlines policies. There usually isn't a charge for checking carseat, strollers, or bassinets (pack n play), even if the child is flying on your lap. You are also allowed to bring the diaper bag plus your carry ons...the diaper bag does not count as your carry on.

Best of luck. I hope you are not traveling alone, and will have help, my son was very good and slept the entire flight there, and if it weren't for my fiance and my mother traveling with us, I would have had a nervous break down.

How to help infants in the car?

Kate T

We are traveling 5 hours to upstate NY this weekend with a 3 year old and a 6 month old. The 3 year old is fine in the car, but the 6 month old screams the whole time. Does anyone have any suggestions as to help this? It is not car sickness or reflux, I think it is just boredom. Thanks a million for all of your help in advance.

Answer
My husband and I took a trip from MA to PA (6-7 hour trip) when my daughter was 10 months old. The best way we did it was to wake her up in the middle of the night (1:00am) start driving and let her fall back to sleep in the car. Then when she woke up at 6:00 we only had an hour or two left. We stopped and had breakfast, changed her and let her play for 20-30 minutes. When we got back in the car we only had 1 hour left and she was great.

We brought books and toys and don't forget the pacifier (bring a few so when he/she throws it you have more). Plus you have an added bonus, the 3 year old can sing songs and show pictures and toys to him/her. Teach the 3 year old to make faces to make the baby smile and sing baby songs. Give him a reward for helping you! Good Luck!

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What baby doll toys does your daughter have?

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Mom of E a

I bought Sophie a $10 baby doll infant carrier... it sucks, I know why it was only $10 now! So, I'm looking to see what other mommas have and what your daughters liked. Add a link if you have one.

Thanks!

Answer
She has a variation of this set in pink: http://images.bizrate.com/resize?sq=500&uid=1085529364 We got it for her at Sam's Club last year. It's very cute. The stroller has held up very well... the swing is kind of a pain in the butt and falls off, but she loves it none the less. The crib is crap though... but she likes to sit in it herself, which i'm guessing is why it ripped so easily. Plus the bars move around so it's crooked a lot (which has to do with HER using it instead of the babies lol). I would love to get her a wooden crib, i've got my eyes out for that for her this year. I'm tempted to buy just the stroller in this set if I can find it... since it's bigger than the one she has now, she's starting to outgrow it a bit. But so far this set is a winner, she loves her, my nephew loves it, the kids who come to play love it.

EDIT: Found it. The set she has is the fisher price precious planet at Toys R us. :) We got the entire set for $45. http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3546334

EDIT2: I think this is a pretty cute set too, and does look pretty durable. I'm tempted to get her part of this set too, since she is so tall for the stroller she has now lol http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2669620

Can anyone give me some American based toy companies that are not linked with lead poisoning?

LilyBug

I have a 6 month old daughter and I am getting concerned with all the recalls in infant/toddler/children's toys. If you also have any great ideas about bottles and so forth. Much would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Melissa and Doug . . . . AWESOME toys that are made in America and can be found at Toys R Us. Their products are also high quality and usually wooden (as opposed to plastic). They also focus on educational value as opposed to TV character association.

Quote from their site:
"Additionally, we specifically test our paints and coatings very frequently, to be sure our toys meet or exceed government recommendations limiting heavy metals and lead in children’s items. We have cabinets full of thousands of passing test reports, and these passing results have been verified by 3rd party independently accredited testing laboratories, considered by many to be the best scientific laboratories in the world."

Their site: http://www.melissaanddoug.com/

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Do you look on the back of the package to find out where it was made before buying it? Do you buy made China?

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Fedup Vete

The last question was suppose to be, "Do you buy stuff "Made in China" or do you try to find something else to take the place of it."

How about infant toys? Do you return it if it says China on it?

Answer
I look to make sure. Especially if Im giving the toy to a baby or toddler. They seem to chew on everything. Im checking chocolates and candy now too.

What are some good educational toys for a 2 year old girl?

Cmeyer

My daughter is going to be two in May. I am wondering what would be some good educational toys for her. I have been looking but most of what I have been seeing is for infants and toys that she would get bored of. She likes things that make noise. Right now she is into drawing and organizing. She likes pushing things around. She is really into baby dolls right now. I got her one and some accessories to go with. I am just wondering what educational. I a curious what your child at this age likes or liked and also what are some toys to avoid? Thanks!

Answer
I would recommend anything Leapfrog. A couple that come to mind are the Leapfrog Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set and the Leapfrog Alphabet Explorer. Here is a link to all Leapfrog toys that are appropriate for a 2 year old-
http://www.toysrus.com/search/index.jsp?kw=leapfrog&f=Taxonomy%2FTRUS%2F2254197&f=PAD%2FTRU+Age+Filter%2F2+Years&fbc=1&fbn=TRU+Age+Filter%7C2+Years

Vtech also makes a toddler laptop. I don't have it but it looks like it got good reviews and it would be educational-
http://www.amazon.com/VTech-Infant-Learning-Friends-Toddler/dp/B0027CS7F4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1269711342&sr=8-1
I believe it is for ages 18 months to 3 years.

My son likes his Little People Animal Sounds Farm. I would recommend that highly. Great for learning animal sounds and names and for speech (saying in, out, up, down).
http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Little-People-Animal-Sounds/dp/B000EQGT00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1269711459&sr=1-1

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How do you become a nanny?

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ZeeLizardG

My teacher for Infant Development was observing me when we took a trip to a preschool. She noticed how I interacted with the children, kept everything neat and orderly, and adhered strictly to the schedule and told me I would make a good nanny, which got me wondering: what exactly does it take to become one?

Answer
Go to care.com and Sittercity.com
Fill out a profile for each site. Be honest and fill it out the best you can in detail.
Then you can search for a family near where you live and families can search for you.

Most families want a person with experience, mature, on time, clean, will help with house work, taking kids to activities, someone that will teach there kids, do crafts, stick with there schedule and rules, take kids to the park, fix the kids there meals,doing activities at home(toys,puzzles,games,outside play), most ive worked for dont want kids in front of the tv all day(i allow 40 min a day and on occasions we have a movie day,just one movie),etc... Pretty much what a mom would do.

Why did I get a thumbs down?

Why do women choose to bottle feed over breastfeeding? Why dont women fight back against outlawing the breast?

amosunknow

::iam NOT trying to sound like a le leche freak, or post holier than thou questions::

Health reasons aside, why choose bottles over breast?

I jsut got done reading something with the world census thing, and doing a little research. America has the HIGHEST infant mortality rate of all the industrialized nations. Thats insane, and they say its because all other countries tend to have much higher rates of breastfeeding verses formula.

I think its unfair that hospitals and doctors dont provide education and support to moms. Every mom wants to provide the very best, and its not fair that commercial entities and cultural taboo's are allowed to steal the best from our children.

On top of all that, some states and counties are MAKING IT ILLEGAL to nurse in public.. WTF?!

It just bothers me that we cant provide the best.

People in saudi arabia have healthier babies than us for cripes sake. Theres something wrong here.
Honestly i have to admit that I decided to nurse because it was cheaper. It wasnt until my son was born and I was crying in pain with every feeding that I researched it and found out how good it is and decided to tough it out.

So its not like I did it for his sake in the start. I was just one of those uneducated masses. Because no one offers education on this stuff. I had to google it on my own.

Answer
Bless you for writing this!
I made a big mistake with our son and breastfeeding/colic
I was uneducated with our son- though I thought I was. He took right to breastfeeding. He did well- but he had colic while I was nursing him. I changed my diet, watched what I ate- and still he had colic. I was told by our ped. at that time that "breastfed babies don't get colic". He handed us some soy formula and said "this will work." So, I listened- BIG MISTAKE- HUGE!!! Our baby cried for 5 hours when I was nursing him every night. On soy- he cried for 18 hours a day. I didn't know that you could put them back on the breast. I didn't know that the breastmilk would make it easier for him with colic. I had thought it was me and my milk that was causing him problems. I swore that any baby that we had following would be breastfed- and have done so. Our baby is just a year old and is still breastfed- 3 times a day. She has only been sick one time- she caught pink eye from me. She is far ahead on the charts for development.

So, some of it is lack of education.
Some of it is our perception of breasts in America- they are veiwed as "sexual objects" instead of as what they are for- to feed our babies.

Women are frowned upon for nursing past the first year.
Women are frowned upon for nursing in public. I will nurse our baby when and wherever she needs to eat.

For some women it is hard to nurse- they have pain. It is NORMAL and it passes.

Others have milk supply issues- these can be fixed. Still, it is O.K. to combine formula with breastmilk once baby is on the breast and is accostomed to the feeds.

Breastfeeding is easy- it is always ready.

Initially, babies want to nurse all the time. THIS PASSES! The first 6 weeks are the hardest- but it goes so fast.

I guess if I lived in an area that had laws passed not to nurse in public, I would get arrested. I have heard people say, "Nurse in your car." Sure- in 95 degree heat- IS THAT WISE??? Or, here in NY- in the freezing cold. Crazy!

Or: Nurse in the bathroom- nice- would you want to eat in a smelly bathroom???

Once, when nursing our baby in Toys R Us a family from India passed- they had a 5 month old baby and an older son. The dad and I had a nice talk- as I sat there covered and nursing our baby who was only 8 weeks old. He said that in his country women who are nursing are worshipped because they are passing on the next generations health and well-being. He told me not to hide in an aisle. I felt so good after talking to him and his wife. He was offended by the views on women who nurse in this country- and could not comprehend it.

Likewise, it is frowned upon to nurse here in public- when nothing can be seen. I had that experience recently- and it's the very thought that a baby is nursing under a blanket that is just a horrid thought to some- ridiculous! I receive more dirty looks from women than from men.

Many doctors are also not pushing breastfeeding- as did ours 10 years ago. If someone had told me, "he has colic- but he'd have it anyway, KEEP NURSING..." I would have. I didn't have the support or the internet to help.

NOTE: I work full-time and have been nursing for a year- I pump 3 times at work and once before I leave. Both babies were tongue-tied- our youngest still is and nursed fine.

So...good for you for bringing this up- and thanks for listening!

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is it me or do some infant toys look oddly familiar to dog toys?

best new infant toys image

bizzurke

some of my sons toys look exactly like dog toys. its kind of odd to me lol. these are toys that have been given to me though, i wouldnt buy him something that looks like it could be for a dog.

has anybody else noticed this though?
and how do you keep the dog from getting your infants toys when he/she is playing on the floor?

Answer
Yes a lot of them are practically interchangeable. Another thing that I think is funny is that both dogs and babies are greatly rewarded for learning to roll over. It strikes me as funny when I am cheering for my son to roll over.

What are the best ways to keep the baby occupied while in the car...?

amber 18

We visit the grandparents at least 1 a month and they live about 2 hours away. My 6 month old is getting tired of the infant toys that hang from his handle. What other toys are good for keeping babies occupied for so long in the car?

Other than my husband or I sitting back there playing peekabo!

Answer
Traveling is sooo hard. I have trouble with mine if its more than an hour. He will sleep about that long then wake up and be bored and fussy. I try bringing lots of toys from home. When he was that little he loved to rip up paper. Old magazines work great for that. That would keep him busy for awhile. The other thing I try to do is leave for the trip when I know he is tired. He used to sleep late so if we got going real early I knew he would fall back to sleep. Also try and tire him out before you leave, play outside in the fresh air. My baby also likes the toy cell phones. I set aside some toys for just the car so he doesn't get bored with them so fast. The only time he gets to play with them is in the car.

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How do I deal with people hyper-genderizing about my baby?

best toys newborns 2011 image

Crane

I recently attended a party with my five month old daughter, and the other guests could not stop talking about what an extreme "girl" she was. It was fine at first - I mean, yes, she IS a girl - but it got to the point where no one was mentioning anything else. "What a girl she is! No one would mistake her for a boy! Look at those petite shoulders! Look at that face!" This went on and on. Worse, when she started touching the arm of another baby - a boy, who didn't mind, nor did his mother - others started saying, "What a forward female! Watch out for her!" I am confident that my daughter was NOT touching the boy out of any romantic feeling; she shows similar interest in little girls.

I just smiled through most of this, occasionally acknowledging, "Yes, she is a girl," but as she gets older, I don't want her to think that her primary characteristic is that of being a stereotypical "girl." How could I defuse this in future situations?

Answer
I know exactly what you mean!

I don't have any biological children, but hyper-gendered speech and actions to the children I care for (as a foster carer) is so strong at times that I dress all the newborns and small babies in neutral clothes and just say "I can't say the gender...". (We have had to hide children's gender before if they had a parent who was violent and prone to tracking their children down).

You could start with more neutral clothing.

What all your friends are doing is- unknowingly- reinforcing the stereotypes of femininity that society has taught us. There's not much to do about it, except maybe dressing your girl in the "boy's" clothes occasionally (or at least around these people) and giving her a mix of "boy" and "girl" toys. Which isn't a bad idea anyway.

Here's some common misconceptions about gender-neutral parenting, maybe it'll give you some ideas.
http://www.raisingmyboychick.com/2011/06/10-myths-about-gender-neutral-parenting/

will a nissan rogue fit three car seats?

raeann k

I have a 6 and 5 year old in two booster seats and just found out i'm expecting.. Will a 2011 Nissan Rogue fit 2 boosters and an infant car seat comfortably or should i start looking around for something bigger

Answer
Congratulations!

It totally depends on what seats your children will be riding in and in what positions.

Many parents have successfully installed three car seats across as shown here: http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=33226

I would look into the Chicco Key Fit 30 infant car seat as it is typically narrower than other infant car seats. Usually the KeyFit works best when installed in the center. Another option is using a convertible car seat straight from birth. Look at the lowest bottom slots measuring about 8 inches or less to ensure the harness straps can be adjusted at or below the baby's shoulders.

The Diono Radian is the narrowest car seat on the market that measures about 14" across the thighs and 17" wide at the shoulders. It is typically outgrown around age 3-5 rear facing and another two to three years forward facing. This means that it will be the last harnessed car seat your child will need. It is spendy, but it is indeed worth it. The Radian R100 can typically be found on sale on amazon for around $207: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=diono+radian+r100

A newborn needs their car seat in at at a 45 degree angle to keep their airway open and the Radian does take up a ton of front to back space in the vehicle. You could try installing it in the center seat and have the top part of the Radian fan between the two front vehicle seats. Or you could have the Radian installed behind the passenger seat, but have no one sit in the front passenger seat until your baby gets some head control. When your infant is older, you can always used the angle adjuster by Diono to get the seat more upright.

You can always use the Chicco KeyFit 30 then get the Diono Radian later so you don't have to eat the dashboard. It is completely up to you =]

But I have to warn you- boosters can be difficult to buckle in a three across situation. You might get some scraped knuckles, but it is indeed do-able.

Also, if you do install in the outboard seating position for the infant seat, installing with the seat belt generally gives you more room. When installing it with the seat belt, the car seat can be scooted closer to the door. The seat just needs to be installed with less than an inch of movement. The KeyFit 30 has a built in lock-off to aid seat belt installs.

My best advice for you is to go to Toys R Us and try out car seats and different combinations. If you are installing a car seat in the center position in the back seat, LATCH cannot be used as they aren't reinforced in the center (unless your vehicle manual says specifically that they can be used in the center). The lower anchors on the side seating positions are connected by a metal bar; this is (usually) not found in the center.

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is it me or do some infant toys look oddly familiar to dog toys?

what are the best infant toys image

bizzurke

some of my sons toys look exactly like dog toys. its kind of odd to me lol. these are toys that have been given to me though, i wouldnt buy him something that looks like it could be for a dog.

has anybody else noticed this though?
and how do you keep the dog from getting your infants toys when he/she is playing on the floor?

Answer
Yes a lot of them are practically interchangeable. Another thing that I think is funny is that both dogs and babies are greatly rewarded for learning to roll over. It strikes me as funny when I am cheering for my son to roll over.

What are the best ways to keep the baby occupied while in the car...?

amber 18

We visit the grandparents at least 1 a month and they live about 2 hours away. My 6 month old is getting tired of the infant toys that hang from his handle. What other toys are good for keeping babies occupied for so long in the car?

Other than my husband or I sitting back there playing peekabo!

Answer
Traveling is sooo hard. I have trouble with mine if its more than an hour. He will sleep about that long then wake up and be bored and fussy. I try bringing lots of toys from home. When he was that little he loved to rip up paper. Old magazines work great for that. That would keep him busy for awhile. The other thing I try to do is leave for the trip when I know he is tired. He used to sleep late so if we got going real early I knew he would fall back to sleep. Also try and tire him out before you leave, play outside in the fresh air. My baby also likes the toy cell phones. I set aside some toys for just the car so he doesn't get bored with them so fast. The only time he gets to play with them is in the car.

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What toys start with the letter I?

best infant musical toys image

Erica

My son needs to bring a show and tell item that starts with the letter I and we can't think of anything!
Sorry - you can't tell with the font on here - I mean I like Igloo. Not L. Thanks!

Answer
It doesn't have to be a toy does it? Just something that starts with 'i'.

Maybe if someone you know has a baby and who is available your son can have an 'infant'. Maybe he could bring in some 'ink' and show a picture he made with the ink. You could even go to the butchers and see if they have any animals guts and he can bring in some 'innards'. You could catch an 'insect', show a musical 'instrument' or if you have something made out of ivory he could use that.... But if it HAS to be a toy, I'm completely stumped. Maybe you could find or make a stuffed iguana.

Good Christmas Gifts for my soon to be born baby girl and my toddler?

Jordan

i don't know who heard my illness about my cancer mono and strep this may be the last/only family christmas so i want to make it the best my 11 month old baby Girl is so smart she is potty trained she runs and she can talk a little bit i don't know if she should get a potty chart to help because she is 11 months she still makes accidents or snow toys or a big girl bed more clothes i don't know and my new baby i have no idea!

Answer
You HAVE TO get the infant a "woobie" (a soft little blanky with a head of a frog, cat, or other animal. Both my babies are very attached to there's and are soothed by it.Most baby departments of stores sell them.
Infants grow fast, so soon he/she will enjoy musical stuffed animals or toys that light up.

Toddlers like educational toys where they can press buttons and pull levers, ect. They like noisy toys!

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How many units are sold for a typical infant toy?

best infant toys image

amnon

HI,
I’m looking for data about the typical sales volumes of an infant toy. I’m only interested in toys of leading companies, such as Fisher Price, Tomy, MGA, Hasbro, Learningcurve and step2.

Just to clarify, I’m not looking for the total amounts of toys of any kind that a company sold. The key is the number of units sold per specific toy model.

Any solid data to backup the answer will be highly appreciated.

Answer
...................

How to disinfect infants toys?

Suri

I have an underground storage space where I live in Italy. It's quite damp and very dusty there. I've stored toys there from when my kids were little.I'd like to pass on these toys to my grandchildren. The toys have been there for probably 17 years. Is there a way of safely disinfecting the infant toys that will go into baby's mouth or should i throw them out? They were stored in a closed bag and then in a box. Most are hard plastic ,but a couple are stuffed.

Answer
You can definitely disinfect the toys. You just need to get a surface wipe (they have them at most supermarkets) get a surface wipe and wipe the toys clean. If they were in closed bags, they should be fine with a little bit of cleaning. Give them to your grandchildren after you clean them, they'll love them!

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Do y'see the love in this one?!?

best infant toys for 2010 image

Rayven53

The Feeling of Done

Sometimes, like an architect
where my write is the ribbon
on opening day;
sometimes just fully spent,
and my poem is the towel to
wipe my tears away!

Sometime, the fool drunkard
inebriated by this cocktail
penned to true love;
sometimes the wolfish glutton
who writes and writes but
never gets enough.

Sometimes a wee small infant
a strange format my newest toy to
learn to rattle;
and sometimes I am a warrior,
with cause shield and word sword brandished
well in battle!

RAH (c) 09/23/2010
"D"...hugs t'you too sweetie! :)

Caz...I posted all these love poems 'n' wodnered where y'went!?! ;)

Muchas gracias amiga! :)
T'anks again ladies...y'all so dependably sweet!

T'anks s'much BF and CG...actually, I've posted a number today, cuz I got asked about somethin' and these were my answer! From the archives or on teh spot, I'm enjoyin' the ones I chose today!

Answer
Yes I do see the love in this one , Nice one Ray

Are parents aware of the harmful effects of lots of chemicals found in most plastic?

Stupid Sma

like ''Bisphenol A'' or 'BPA' and other chemicals like phthalates ?

''BPA is controversial because it exerts weak, but detectable, hormone-like properties, raising concerns about its presence in consumer products and foods contained in such products. Starting in 2008, several governments questioned its safety, prompting some retailers to withdraw polycarbonate products. A 2010 report from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raised further concerns regarding exposure of fetuses, infants, and young children.[1] In September 2010, Canada became the first country to declare BPA a toxic substance.[2][3] In the European Union and Canada, BPA use is banned in baby bottles.[4]''


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bisphenol_A
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8361863.stm

Answer
Yup, thus why we only buy wooden toys and we make sure all of our plastic is BPA free, or buy glass/wood products where possible. We use glass baby bottles.

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Do the infant learning games really work?

best newborn infant toys image

due [9/15/

I was at barnes and nobles the other day and being 6 months pregnant of course i went to the parenting secton and say this book (or a couple books) about games you can play with your baby from newborn and up? i mean do they really help? has anyone tried these?

Answer
I haven't read any books on games to play with your children, but I do get e-mails and mailings from formula and diaper companies which include developmental suggestions. Plus, you kind of make up stuff as you go along!

These are the things I do with my almost 3 month old son (who is "highly advanced" according to milestone charts):

* I talk to him constantly. I tell him all the tasks I am doing, and I make up silly stories. This helps his vocabulary development. I also vary my speaking voice and I refer to myself as "mommy" and my son by his name instead of saying "I" and "you" (babies are not supposed to comprehend pronouns at a young age).
* I count to 10 with him on both our fingers in English and Spanish every day. And, I use his toys to introduce the names of colors, also in both languages. When I show him books with pictures of animals or objects, I try to use both languages as well.
* He has a bumble bee toy that I hold a few inches away from his face and allow him to focus on. Then I make a buzzing sound and move the bee in different directions (up, down, left, right) so he practices following it with his eyes. This helps spacial development.
* I sing songs to him, especially ones with hand motions or dances (la manito, itsy bitsy spider, wheels on the bus, etc).
* I place toys in his hand(s) while we are playing together so he works on his grip, or I sit him in his swing with toys attached to the play tray when he wants independant time so he can practice grabbing the toys himself. He also like to play on his play mat and in his bouncy chair where he can bat at and rattle the toys.

I hope these suggestions help. Good luck!

What things are normal to ask for or register for at a baby shower?

Shannon

I'm supposed to be registering but I have no idea what a newborn needs or what's appropriate to ask for.

Answer
Well, if you are registering for newborn gifts, that means you are going to have one of your own very soon. It's time to figure out what to do with a newborn infant! You are going to need a ton of disposable diapers, new born clothes, receiving blankets, baby bath towels and wash cloths, baby bath tub, bassinet, crib, car seat, rocking swing, diaper bag, baby bottles (even if you are planning on nursing), baby brush and comb, baby oil, powder and lotion, pacifiers, soft baby toys (with no small pieces that could come off and be choked on), a mobil to go over the crib, baby walkie talkies (let you hear if the baby wakes up when you are in another room), rattles, steamer (if your baby gets the croup) and so much more. Take an online trip through the store and get an idea what they have for babies or call or go to the store and ask for a list of the most requested items. Good luck and best wishes!

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What things do you do to keep your infant entertained?

best infant girl toys image

babygirl4u

Just looking for different ideas you do to keep your infant entertained. Mine can't sit up by self yet. Best ideas gets 10 points.

Answer
My girls were always very happy if I just carried them around and talked to them about whatever I was doing. We went on walks, trips to the mall and grocery store, and just moved around the house cleaning and doing laundry. My younger daughter loved being carried in a sling, and I wish I'd had one when my older daughter was a baby. My older daughter did like the stroller a lot, though.

My older daughter loved her bouncy seat, and when she was 4 months old, I started putting her in her exersaucer, which was her very favorite toy. She also loved listening to books. I could hold her on my lap and read to her for a very long time.

My younger daughter loved the swing. She also loved just being on the floor in the middle of the room and watching everything around her -- her big sister, the cats, etc.

Both girls loved being outside -- just feeling the breeze on their faces, hearing the sounds, and watching the leaves rustle on the trees.

I sang to my daughters a lot, too -- lullabies, nursery rhymes, pop songs, made-up songs, whatever I was in the mood to sing and whatever they seemed interested in hearing.

I looked them in the eye and talked directly to them. I'd identify their body parts (eyes, nose, mouth, hands, tummy, feet, knees, toes) as I touched them. I'd use hand motions to sing songs, or I'd let them watch me count on my fingers.

I'd hold up various toys and see which ones interested them. If they wanted to hold or touch something, I gave them the toy or let them feel it.

Most of the things that keep an infant entertained are interactive. Your baby wants to see your face, snuggle up to you, and hear your voice. He or she will play with some toys, but most of that will come a little later -- after sitting.

Hope this gives you a few more ideas!

Infant ear piercing: What is wrong with these people who call themselves parents?

Buffy J

A baby is a baby not a fashion accesory. Permanent Body mutilation should be the choice of whoever is getting it. I think that parents do have a right to not allow their kid to do it to themselves, because the kid can when they grow up, but they have no right to do it to their kid before they are old enough to decide for themself. I have an arguement against a few of the biggest reasons why a parent would do this to their kid. First, they say it's cute. I think it looks tacky, but for those who do think it is cute, so are hairbows, a lot of baby outfits, and babies in general. Also, see reason above about it being the kid's choice. Second, they say it ends the problem of gender confusion. A simpler, pain free trick even more visible is putting a little girl in pink, boy in blue. Finally, they say it spares the kid the pain of remembering. If the kid doesn't want it and doesn't wear earrings, the holes are still visible. If they want it when they are older, they can if they are allowed.
I was running out of characters for the last reason, so here's what I meant. I had my ears pierced in kindergarten, I wanted to, in case you are wondering. When I don't wear earrings, the holes are still visible. One possible reason someone may not like having their ears pierced as a baby is because even if they choose not to wear earrings, the holes are still visible and they may not like that. When I looked at similar questions, there were some people who had their ears pierced as infants and ended up not liking it. And if you want to know why I am so bothered by this, when I go to the mall, seeing this done to infants really haunts me, seeing parents deliberately put their kid through so much pain deliberately.

Answer
Thank You! I was at a birthday party not too long ago and my friend walked in with her 3 MONTH OLD daughter with her ears pierced! I was so horrified I couldn't say anything nice about it! I just said "I can't bear it when my daughter gets shots, how could you deliberately put her through that much pain!". Needless to say the mother was speechless and after they left EVERYONE at the party was in shock. It is now the punch line for everything like, "hey, at least I don't poke holes in my babies ears..." So awful, and trashy to boot!

OH and she didn't get them pierced for cultural reasons...she was treating her daughter like her own little fashion toy.

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How to encourage back to front rolling in a 6 month old?

How many toys should a baby have?

best toys babies 6 months up image

Ann

How many toys should babies of different ages have?
3 months?
6 months?
1 year?
2 year?

How do you decide how many toys is too many and how do you keep a baby stimulated without spoiling him or her?

Thanks!

Answer
Just make sure you have plenty, there's no set number they need. I wouldn't worry about spoiling them at that age, but an excessive number is a waste of space and money.

What activities can I do with a 6-month old baby to see her development?

Horse Love

I have a project and I need to know some activities, the baby is 6 months old, im not the mother, i want to know what activities can i do with her to the physical, intellectual, social and emotional development.

Answer
My duaghter is 6 months and she loves her toys.. Anything paper get her all excited. She likes to just lay on the floor and play with things and she likes hearing running water and she likes looking in mirrors. He favorite thing to do is be held and walk around.

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