baby

Is Breast Feeding the Choice for You!

The question has baffled new moms since they invented sliced bread. This is a personal decision. Don't let pressure from parents, family or friends influence you. To help you make the decision that is right for you and your baby, I have included information on both bottle and breastfeeding. Also talk to friends, family, your Doctor.
When asking for information on breastfeeding make sure the person you're asking has had a successful experience. It's not that breast feeding is difficult; it just requires a little determination. If you choose breastfeeding, here are some things for you.

Understanding Supply and Demand:

What to Carry in Your Diaper Bag

Pacifiers (Extras)
Diapers
Plastic bags
Bibs
Sunscreen
Blanket
Sweater
Bottle
Nipples
Liners
Toys
Burp cloths
Water (for mom or mixing formula)
Changing pad
Wet wipes
Clothes, extra outfits
Camera
Diaper rash ointment
Changing pad to use in changing rooms
Formula

Packing for the Hospital

PACKING FOR THE HOSPIAL
Your heart is racing, your mind is saying "Is it real this time or just false labor again. Is our baby really on its way”? This is not the time to pack your suitcase! Print out this list, and pack your bag at least 1 month before your due date. With the printed list you can see at-a-glance what last-minute items you'll need to add. Be sure to bring something to keep you occupied during early stages of labor. Books, thank you notes for baby gifts.

FOR MOM

Labor kit containing massage oil (recommended in most childbirth classes)
Warm socks (to wear in the delivery room)
Nightgown (one that opens in the front if you're planning on breastfeeding)
Clothing for trip home (clothing with plenty of room will be the most comfortable)
Cosmetics

Dear Nurse

NURSING MOMS:

• Ask the labor and delivery nurse to notify the nursery that you will be breastfeeding.

• Request that your baby room with you continuously or that a note be made on the chart that your baby should not receive any bottle-feedings and should be brought to you when ever she is hungry. You can print this letter and bring it with you to the hospital.

Dear Nurse,
If I am a healthy full-term baby, please don't give me any water bottles, formula, or pacifiers.
I eat "on cue" or every 1 - 3 hours, whichever comes first, daytime and nighttime. When I'm hurgry my mom wants me brought to her, no matter how often that may be.
I may be allowed to sleep one 4 - 5 hour period at night if I have already had 8 feedings that day.

Choosing Baby Boy's Names

These are some of the main Things to keep in mind:

Sound and Compatibility ...

How your baby's name sounds when it's said aloud is one of the most essential things to think about. Does it go well with your last name? Often, longer first names work better with shorter last names, and vice versa. Avoid first names that rhyme with your last name. And please resist puns: A name like "Holly Wood" or "Bud Weiser" will be cute for about five minutes. Then your poor child will be stuck with it for the rest of his or her life.

Unique Names ...

Family Dinner: The Value of Sharing Meals

Family dinner: The value of sharing meals
by G Peterson

In a challenging world, family belonging provides a safe haven for parents and children alike. Family dinners not only satisfy our physical and emotional needs, but also offer a time and place to consciously teach our children the value of caring for others.
Sharing family dinners sets the stage for us to value our family relationships, rather than take them for granted. Consistently having dinner together as a family also keeps us in touch, allowing us to trouble-shoot problems in daily living, as well as

Tales From The Crib - Share Your Parenting Stories

Upon bringing our new baby boy home about 6 months ago, I was wondering how I was going to explain the differences to our 3 year old daughter. Instead of starting something I thought I would just let her see for herself.

She sat and watched us change his diaper for the first time at home, and I thought "here we go" just then she says "Huh, look at that?" I said "what?" she then said "He only has one finger on his bum." She then walked away shaking her head and chuckling "one finger". Now if you ask her what he has she says "Michael has only one finger on his bum......And he pees with it!"
Story Submitted by: Nicole

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It's funny how kids hear things. I sing the "Hush Little Baby" lullaby