Mom Wiki at Type-A Mom Article Feed

Deciding Whether or Not to Have Another Baby

Moonwise — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 19:57:00 +0100

My first marriage resulted in three beautiful children. I'm now re-married to the man of my dreams.

totanaliz — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:17:00 +0100

We are always looking for ways to save money, and of course do our bit for the environment, so why not combine the two? There are many ways we can cut down on energy consumption that will reduce fuel bills and therefore that “carbon footprint” we hear so much about today.

Winter Warming Soups

totanaliz — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:17:00 +0100

Living here in Spain I worried that I would not get to experience that wonderful end-of-autumn chill, the first frost or indeed the nose-freezing drop in temperature associated with other parts of the world at this time of year. And with the crisp, sharp mornings has come the need for good old-fashioned comfort food…the king of which has to be soup. Packed full of nutrients and taste, these recipes are guaranteed to take the edge of the cold and fill you full of health and vitality!

Best Cheap Stocking Fillers for Dad

totanaliz — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:09:00 +0100

I always think dads get the short end of the stick at Christmas, they are so hard to buy for and there are only so many pairs of comedy socks a man can take. Stocking fillers are a great way for the kids to get involved in either the gift buying as they are usually under 5 dollars, ideal for pocket money, or gift choosing. Most kids, when asked what daddy wants for Christmas, shout “Dinosaurs! Power Ranger DVD! Star Wars Lego!” Not necessarily Daddy’s first choice, but you can let them have some influence over these small gift ideas.

Surviving the Holiday Season

totanaliz — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:43:00 +0100

Most of us look forward to the upcoming holiday season with joy, the prospect of gift giving, family fun and parties a highlight in the cold and dark months of winter. How many of us find, however, that the reality is more stressful, and far from the “goodwill to all men” than was anticipated?

Some of My Favorite SAHD Myths

ParenTeam — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:04:00 +0100

Some people just don't know what to make of a stay-at-home dad ... They don't have conventional office jobs so they can't be men. They don't have stretch marks so they can't be moms. They could be nannies but that's not right, either. Like most myths, SAHD myths are generally passed from person to person without any real basis for truth. In the spirit of holiday sharing, I thought I'd share four of my favorite myths.

Christmas Gifts…A Twist on the Traditional

totanaliz — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 21:44:00 +0100

Ok, so for “traditional” read “un-imaginative”….we’ve all been there, buying for a person we don’t know really well or simply running out of ideas for granny…and all that comes to mind is Lilly of the Valley bath sets, novelty socks, or a box of chocolates grabbed at the last minute. You are unsure who is the least impressed; you at giving or the family at receiving. So here I’ve tried to think of some classic favourites, and added a twist. Let´s face it there is a reason these gifts are favourites…they don’t offend, they can be given to anyone and they don’t cost a great deal.

Surviving the Holiday Season

totanaliz — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 21:20:00 +0100

Christmas Gifts for Babies

totanaliz — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 21:02:00 +0100

Baby´s first Christmas is always an amazing time…but probably for the family around them more than the baby itself as they are hardly aware of the party season. Never-the-less as new parents we seem destined to spend oodles of money on gifts for the little ones, spend hours wrapping them only to find ourselves un-wrapping them 12 hours later, cooing in amazement at the gift we bought, then putting it away until they are old enough to play with it…usually just in time for next Christmas. So is there such a thing as a perfect present for a baby? Here I have tried to mix a few delightful toys to help stimulate and amaze as well as some gifts that the parents will enjoy as well.

The Power of Positive Teamwork

ParenTeam — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:07:00 +0100

On our street, there are eight houses. Two of them belong to retired couples (empty nesters). Two belong to single men and the other four (ours included) belong to families. Of those four, two of the families have stay-at-home moms with working husbands. One is a dual-income family.

And then there’s us.

Hottest Preschool Toys for Christmas

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 16:51:00 +0100

Shopping for Preschoolers has its challenges. Many of the injuries to children happen when the toy that is picked out is not the right one for their age. Use this guide to help you pick out the right toy for their age group.

Stocking Up on Gifts

Taylor_Blue — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 23:41:00 +0100

Sometimes things unexpectedly come up, like an invitation you weren't expecting, or someone's dinner party they have when you least expected. These things tend to just sneak up on you.

With some smart planning you can avoid those surprise trips to the mall. Even if you only have a small space to store these things you can always have something on hand. WHen you need a gift it will be there.

The Ways Being a Mom Changes You

admin — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 17:40:00 +0100

The first year of your baby's life is a big time for him. But what about the changes you go through in their first year? Becoming a mom is a life-changing event, and there are many milestones a new mom will hit in the first year of motherhood.

Doing It By The Book

MaryFagan — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 12:44:00 +0100

Do your kids groan at the mention of sex? When mine were younger, they had stronger stomachs (or didn’t have much of a clue yet) and I could broach the subject without ruining meals, their day, their life or whatever. Despite their gagging, it is something I bring up from time to time because they’re bombarded with sex and sexuality from everywhere else. I just want equal time for my opinion, guidance, information, perspective and yes, my experience.

Playing Games

MaryFagan — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 10:56:00 +0100

“I wish raising kids came with a set of directions,” said my friend, totally befuddled and full of self-doubt after her latest go-round with her son.

I contend that it wouldn’t matter. Parental guidance directions would be just like homework. People wouldn’t follow them, they’d lose them, the cat would pee on them, their baby cousin would eat them, they wouldn't understand them, they’d break them, they’d make up their own or they’d say they tried them when they didn’t.

Halloween: You Be the Judge

MaryFagan — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 02:07:00 +0100

I am afraid. Halloween is around the corner and once again I’m instinctively gripping my seam ripper just a bit too tightly. The horror of our community’s annual Halloween costume competition - oh, excuse me - Halloween party, has me stressed.

Macaroni and Cheese Finger Food Recipe

admin — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 15:35:00 +0100

Finger food eating babies and toddlers love macaroni and cheese, but in many cases serving it means a choice between a self-spoon-feeding mess or hand-feeding your child. Believe it or not, macaroni and cheese can be a finger food. This recipe was gobbled up by my twins, it's healthy and it's fun for them to eat.

Personalized Christmas Stockings

admin — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 14:22:00 +0100

Personalized Christmas stockings are fun for both children and adults, and it's a great way to make it fun to put out Christmas decorations. Personalized Christmas stockings also make great gifts for kids and parents. Here are some fun and cute personalized Christmas stockings.

Beating the Lunchbox Boredom!

totanaliz — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 07:59:00 +0100

Every mum knows that variety is the key to an empty lunchbox and a full child. So here are some more inspiring ideas to keep the kids happy, and alleviate the soggy sandwich slump that hits us mums this time of year. If you have already tried the ideas in our Lively Lunchboxes article, here are some more ideas to keep your kids munching happily!

Coping With Post Natal Depression

totanaliz — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:54:00 +0100

It is estimated post-natal depression affects 1 in 5 new mothers. Most people assume that it happens immediately after the birth of your child.

Photographing Kids

totanaliz — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:39:00 +0100

I’m almost positive that in every home there is a drawer that holds packets of photographs that have fallen short of perfection…the subject moved, they are out of focus, there is strangely no head where you are sure there was one originally. Or the only thing visible is a large pink blurred blob…the photographers’ finger. Of course, with the advent of digital camera it is more likely that there is a folder on your desktop full of these images, as opposed to a physical drawer…which ever it is, each picture is an opportunity missed.

Handmade Gifts for Your Child to Make

totanaliz — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:08:00 +0100

Christmas is looming ever closer and with the children back at school the party season has started again in earnest. Sometimes it can be hard to think of original and creative gifts, something that says more than “I ran to the store on the way here”. A gift that shows you thought in advance and also something your children can have a hand in creating as well. So here are a few suggestions of easy presents for your child to make.

Encouraging Creativity in Kids

totanaliz — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:00:00 +0100

Last week I was remonstrating to my mum how long it had taken me to clear up after a painting session with the kids. She looked sceptical. She said “I remember the first lot of Play-Doh? they had…you never let them get more than one colour out at a time, in case they mixed them together.” It was as if she knew that a “painting session” in our house meant 3 colours, 3 separate brushes so as not to mix the colours, a big vat of water to clean said brushes, and aprons the size of dust sheets…but not actual dust sheets as these were under the table to prevent spatter.

The Benefits of Reading with Children

totanaliz — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 19:02:00 +0100

Once upon a time, parents read to their children before bedtime…before the regular intervention by television, computers and telephones. The children benefited from close contact with their families, they honed the ability to sit still and follow a story, their imaginations were boosted by all the creative input, and reading skills were put in place before schooling even started. And they all lived happily ever after.

Halloween Party Games

totanaliz — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 19:02:00 +0100

Whoever heard of a party without games, and why should a Halloween party be any different?! There are all sorts of ghoulish ghastly games to play aside from the fancy dress, and they are all suitable for little ghouls as well as the big ones!

Halloween Themed Food

totanaliz — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:48:00 +0100

No Halloween party would be complete without a few of these scarily tasty dishes!! And if you look closely, you will see they are healthy too…but don’t tell your little monsters!

Soothing Your Crying Baby

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:44:00 +0100

Baby's are notorious for crying and fussing for the silliest of reasons. My daughter cried from seven to ten every night no matter what I did. And this went on until she was four months old. If you try learning your baby's cries it can get much easier. There may be obvious reasons and if you can't find a solution quick for hunger, pain, fatigue, discomfort, too cold, too warm, boredom, over stimulation or needing to be held. There are ways to cope with this feeling.

Your Nutrition While Pregnant

Taylor_Blue — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:09:00 +0100

Is your diet so-so? Now is the best time to eat properly. This will directly effect your baby's growth and development, and not only in your womb but for the rest of their lives.

Cheap Date Ideas

Taylor_Blue — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 02:04:00 +0100

My husband and I really haven't dated yet. We have only been out without the children only once or twice. I wish we had more time to date. And when we do it doesn't have to be expensive!!

Working Mom Secrets to Happy Evenings

admin — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 00:42:00 +0100

Working moms often cope with chaos, tantrums, rushed dinners and fights over bedtime. Instead, this is a time when working moms would rather enjoy the precious few moments with the kids, and enjoy some peaceful me time after they go to bed. Use these tactics to restore some peace and enjoy those special hours after work.

Dealing with your child Wanting Privacy

Taylor_Blue — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 00:51:00 +0100

Around the ages of 6 to 8 years old your child will want privacy. You will need to learn how to respect their boundaries but still keep them safe. This is how you can.

Things to Know Before you go to the ER

Taylor_Blue — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 22:33:00 +0100

Bringing your child to the ER can be very stressful. There is an unexpected feeling that goes with it. Use these hints to take control and stay calm.

Headache Triggers

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 23:37:00 +0100

Stress or a sinus infection can make a headache come on. But every day activities can trigger them too. Find out what they are here and how you can help them.

Help your child´s confidence levels to soar with these hints and tips

totanaliz — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:38:00 +0100

Being aware of your child’s confidence level should be as second nature as being aware of the state of their (generally mucky) hands! However, it often gets forgotten until you find yourself in a situation where their lack of confidence is all too apparent.

Get your children involved in preparing lunch with these simple, fun ideas

totanaliz — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:26:00 +0100

It’s always a struggle getting healthy food into kids, but getting them involved in the preparation can be a fun way to arouse their interest in food and get them to eat better. Kids love to be involved, and you can use the opportunity to talk to them about the food they eat and where it comes from. Here are some great fun, easy and engaging recipes to try with your children.

Tips to Minimize Caffeine Use by Children & Minimize Caffeine Withdrawal

restoringmom — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 17:34:00 +0100

Moderation is important for many nutrition and dietary practices; this is especially true in the case of caffeine and children, tweens and teens.

One way to minimize the many unpleasant side effects of caffeine is to minimize or limit the amount of caffeine routinely consumed by your child, tween or teen.

This article offers tips on minimizing caffeine use in children and also minimizing the symptoms of caffeine withdrawal.

3 smoothie recipes to suit all tastes

totanaliz — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:48:00 +0100

A fantastic way of introducing kids into fruit (and fruit into kids for that matter!) is by making them a smoothie. Any number of fruit can be chosen, and you can tailor it to their tastes and the season. They can be carb free, fat free, gluten free…suitable for every diet!

Reasons to Minimize Caffeine Use by Children, Tweens and Teens

restoringmom — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 18:47:00 +0100

Children, tweens and teens are at a much greater risk for experiencing side effects from caffeinated foods and beverages because of their smaller size. The same amount of caffeine given to a child, or given to an adult will have a much greater effect on the smaller child.

This article looks at why caffeine is not a good drug for children, tweens or teens and some of the other reasons to limit kids' caffeine consumption that include the affect on behavior, obesity, nutritional deficiencies and the link with dental cavities.

Could Your Child, Tween or Teen be Getting Over Caffeinated?

restoringmom — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 08:29:00 +0100

What do hot cocoa, iced tea, M & M’s candies, soda, ice cream, frozen yoghurt, Starbuck’s Frappuccino, mints, dark chocolate, Mountain Dew, Sunkist Orange Soda, energy drinks and over-the-counter cold remedies all have in common?

These are all foods, beverages or products that children may consume that contain caffeine.

Kitchen Safety Myths

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 15:56:00 +0100

Find out what is safe in your kitchen and what is not.

Ways to Feel Your Best

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:15:00 +0100

Everyone's dream it to feel full of energy, feel no pain and bubbly every day. Even though it may be a fantasy to feel like this always...you can feel great most of the time.

Creating A Survival Vehicle

admin — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 01:45:00 +0100

Got enough French fries and burger bits in your backseat to survive a famine? Learn how to equip your "home away from home" to survive carpooling with comfort and style.

Daycare Coping for Working Moms

admin — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:02:00 +0100

One of the hardest things for working moms can be coping with dropping off your children at daycare. Even though you want to work or need to work, it is no simple matter leaving your children in someone else's care during work hours. Here are some tips to make it easier for working moms to cope with daycare, and the children, too.

Homework hassle: How to avoid it

totanaliz — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 19:23:00 +0100

Now my kids have been in school for 2 years, I can´t understand how the teachers are not, at the end of every day, pulling their hair out and in need of a stiff drink. This is how I feel every night having battled my way through the homework hassle. And as the kids get older and the tasks longer and more challenging, I decided I had to stop the nightly warfare before it claimed its first casualty – me!

Children and mobiles: should you give your child a phone?

totanaliz — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 12:58:00 +0100

With reports stating that mobile phone ownership for the 7 – 10 years age group has doubled over the past 3 years, it may be time to take a step back and look at the effects this could be having on our children.

Children’s Bad Habits…Can They Be Broken?

totanaliz — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 10:25:00 +0100

We all know how frustrating and embarrassing it can be…you turn to introduce your son to a friend you haven’t seen for years, and there his is with his finger stuck up his nose. And not even a glimmer of awkwardness thwarts the burrowing. There are a multitude of bad habits children seem to develop from the word “go”, and many more that they pick up at school , and no amount of threats or bribery seems to deter them.

Couples and kids: Pulling together or tug of war

totanaliz — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 10:16:00 +0100

Just last week, one of lifes little idiosyncrasies rose its ugly head, and I was forced to stop and think a while. I had just day been complaining to my long suffering mother about the fact I never seemed to have any time to myself without the children. Time to do those all important but non-essential tasks….shaving both legs, finishing the book you started 10 months ago, or buying feminine products without getting the third degree from an overly-curious 7 year old.

There’s Caffeine hiding in Those Gumballs (Energy Balls)!

restoringmom — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 04:59:00 +0100

This weekend I stumbled across the Power Cell Energy Balls on display at our local Supermarket and found it to be quite alarming. The company is selling a product (Power Cell Energy Balls) that looks like a gumball from a prominent red gumball dispenser (Power Pump), which unless you take the time to read the fine print, you won’t realize that you are giving your child caffeine, extra vitamins and muscle building compounds—in a product that looks like it is made for children, but is not recommended for children.

Make the most of your Time and Money

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 19:42:00 +0100

We all want ways to get the most out of time and money. Here are some great ways to do that.

Looking for love? How to start dating again after a split.

totanaliz — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 18:42:00 +0100

What happens when we commit to the “Happy Ever After” bit…only to discover that “ever after” actually meant “until we grow out of each other” or “until someone better comes along”? We find ourselves back in the dating game, older, wiser and usually carrying more baggage.

Jack-o-Lantern Carving and Preserving

admin — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 18:27:00 +0100

Jack-o-Lantern? carving is a practice with a long history, and there is an art to creating a jaw-dropping jack-o-lantern. Halloween dates back to Celtic times, when October 31st was celebrated as the last night of the Pagan year. It was believed that on this night, the veil between this life and the next was thinnest, and turnips were carved and lit by lumps of burning coal to welcome members of the family that had passed on and ward off evil spirits that may be lurking.

Explaining Divorce or Separation to Children

admin — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 10:26:00 +0100

To most divorcing parents, telling their children is the one task they dread more than anything, fearing anger, confusion and a possible backlash of emotion in what is already a very emotive time. There is also the thought that how they break the news will affect their children in the long term.

Parents Evening – Parent Teacher Nights

admin — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:57:00 +0100

I am always confused when I hear that there are parents that do not attend these “pow-wows” with their child’s teachers. After all, has anyone ever, when they ask their children what happened at school today, got any response other than “nothing” or “I can’t remember”? These brief meetings can let you in on their secret knowledge…what DO they do all day, and HOW do they do it?!

Getting Support as a Single Parent

totanaliz — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:36:00 +0100

Being a single parent is akin to doing two jobs at once, even if you do share custody with your ex. It is all too easy to drop off the social register and concentrate solely on life’s necessities – children and work. It is important to remember however, although you will always be a Parent first, being You should come a very close second!

Homework Inquisitions

MaryFagan — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 12:26:00 +0100

Is getting your child to do their homework testing your patience? Get down to business with these humorous tricks of the trade.

Coping with your Kids Sharing Rooms

admin — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 21:20:00 +0100

Sometimes when children share a room it isn't always the easiest. Sometimes one wants to stay up and read and the other one wants to sleep. But on the other hand they can feel safer and mor comfortable having someone else in the room.

Teaching Your Preschooler to Read and Write

admin — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 02:40:00 +0100

Preschoolers are at a great stage to begin learning basics for reading and writing, and it can be especially helpful to teach them in the year before they enter kindergarten. Getting a 4-year-old to pay attention can be tough, so here are tips for making the ABCs of reading and writing fun.

Bed Rest Escapes

admin — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 02:28:00 +0100

Getting put on bed rest during pregnancy means even travel to the end of your driveway is banned, but there are many ways escape the monotony of bed rest. I was put on bed rest during my last pregnancy, so I know sometimes a pregnant woman would be thrilled for permission merely to check the mailbox. Here are tips for getting a virtual escape from the confines or your bed during bed rest.

Pregnant Travel Safety Tips

admin — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 02:14:00 +0100

Traveling while pregnant isn't always off-limits, and you may have to travel for work or personal reasons. There are safety issues, and sheer matters of remaining comfortable traveling while pregnant. Before you travel when expecting, make pregnant travel easier with these tips.

Breastfeeding in the NICU

admin — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 01:48:00 +0100

When your baby is in the NICU, it is even more important that he or she get powerful breast milk. In fact, the breast milk of the mother of a preemie is specifically engineered for a premature baby. It isn't always easy to breastfeed in the NICU, however. Here are tips on breastfeeding in the NICU.

Decorating Kids' Rooms with Art

admin — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 23:48:00 +0100

I asked a bunch of our favorite kids what kind of wall art they’d like to decorate their rooms. Here’s a sampling.

Growing Self Confidence Through the Cracks

MaryFagan — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:29:00 +0100

Humorous tips to help parents use shortcomings to build character in their children.

Extending Maternity Leave

admin — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 02:56:00 +0100

Maternity leave can seem oh-so short, but there are ways to extend your maternity leave. Find out some tactics for making your maternity leave last longer so you get more bonding time with your newborn baby, as well as ways to cope with maternity leave issues like loss of income or threats to your job.

Praising your Children

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 20:24:00 +0100

Being a parent you can become addicted to praising your child. But praising them all the time may be doing more harm than good. If you praise every little thing they expect praise all the time. How can we help them without harming them?

Your Pregnancy Workout

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 19:13:00 +0100

Try these great exercises to stay healthy and in shape while during the big P.

Housecleaning Secrets

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 01:20:00 +0100

Do you have a hard time getting going on your chores? Put on your favorite music to help you forget the task at hand. Also reward yourself afterwards by watching your favorite show or going to the movies with your friend. Once you get going follow these secrets to get the job done faster.

Maternity Jeans

admin — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 16:25:00 +0100

One of the tough parts about being pregnant is that maternity clothes can be so drab, and your own favorites like jeans tend to be the first thing your belly outgrows. There is no need to wear lame maternity jeans. Here are some cute, cool and comfortable maternity jeans for pregnant women.

Keeping Yourself Organized

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 16:05:00 +0100

When you are trying to keep yourself organized you need to train yourself to do things differently. This means you actually have to make an effort to not do the same things you have been doing every day.

Things to do before Summer is Over

Taylor_Blue — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 00:58:00 +0100

The summer is slipping away fast. There is still time to get the summer fun in.

How not to overeat when eating out

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 23:15:00 +0100

Everyone does it. You swear when you walk into restaurant you will make the right choice. But then you see the special and your vow is blown out the window. WIth these simple tips you can learn to ignore the bad signals and eat properly.

When Your Friend's on Bed Rest

nicu101 — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 20:08:00 +0100

Although it sometimes sounds like a life of luxury when you’re big, swollen and uncomfortably pregnant, being on bed rest really isn’t any fun. Typically, it’s a time filled with anxiety alternating with complete and total boredom. So, the next time you find yourself with a friend who’s been put on bed rest, here are a few things you can do to help.

The Housecleaning Schedule

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 13:57:00 +0100

Some people do every chore in their house and won't stop until that happens. Others feel overwhelmed at the prospect of where to start. When you have a handy checklist to follow chores can be easier to do.

Children, Teens & Adolescents: Dehyration in Sports

restoringmom — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 06:52:00 +0100

My daughters have just started playing soccer for the first time, so I am concerned about dehydration during the hot afternoon practices and games here in California.

I know that children, adolescents and teens who play in the hot, outdoor summer or fall sports may be at risk of developing dehydration and various heat-related illnesses.

This article offers tips for parents on keeping your child or teen well-hydrated during the hot sporting seasons.

Mom Entrepeneur Q&A: Tara Mediate of KooKoo Bear Kids

admin — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 19:59:00 +0100

This is a question and answer interview with Tara Mediate. She and her husband run KooKoo Bear Kids, and she offers insight on starting and running a mom business, as well as tips on balancing life as a mom and a business owner.

Preterm Births on the Rise – Born Too Soon

restoringmom — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 14:46:00 +0100

Despite all of the high-tech medical and scientific technology, the United States still has the highest rate of premature births of any developed nation in the world. Why is this the case? QUEST met with some of the San Francisco Bay Area researchers working to answer that question.

Take a look at this informative new video program now available online from PBS channel KQED in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Managing your Time

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 00:16:00 +0100

Time is always going by so fast. Everyone seems to complain there is never enough of it. If you re-evaluate how you spend your time you can find ways for it to run smoother.

Let them eat bread! Ever tried making your own bread?

totanaliz — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 08:38:00 +0100

I love the smell and the taste of freshly baked bread. And it really needn´t be difficult to make.Check out these ideas for fresh bread without the fuss.

Stir fry Sauces for Summer

totanaliz — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:10:00 +0100

When the weather ges hotter and you don´t want to spend hours cooking in the hot kitchen, stir fries are ideal. Quick , easy and very healthy, you need only use a tiny amount of oil, and the fast cooking process ensures that all the ingredients retain the maximum vitamins and flavour.

Little boys and dirty words

totanaliz — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:03:00 +0100

At the moment my two boys, aged 5 and 7 have an obsession with mucky words. Don´t get me wrong, these are not words of the adult 4 letter variety, although coincidentally many of them do seem to be 4 letter words, but words of the juvenile “bodily function” type!

Keep Your Family Organized

admin — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 20:58:00 +0100

A family has so much going on all the time. And as a mom you have timetables to follow, dates to remember, games to show up to and appointments to keep . There is a way to keep all this information in one place.

Spicy Turmeric Chicken Recipe

admin — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 08:55:00 +0100

Look no further.This spicy chicken recipe is bursting with flavour and very quick and easy to make.

Getting Organized in the Bathroom

admin — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 00:55:00 +0100

No matter what size your bathroom is, it will always have clutter in it. The secret is to have what you need easy to find and out of sight the rest of the time.

No Bake Cake Recipes for Kids

admin — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 14:56:00 +0100

These easy no-bake cake recipes serve 2 purposes. First, they are both great to make in the heat of the summer as there is no cooking involved. Secondly, my kids love to help make them (and of course to help make the finished item “disappear” afterwards!). This is a nice way keep them occupied for the afternoon.

Living with a snorer

admin — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 12:41:00 +0100

My husband has always snored. When I met him, and he was in his 20´s, it wasn´t so bad. Well, at least I could sleep next to him wearing ear plugs and still get a decent nights rest. Fast forward almost 20 years, and things are very different. Call it “middle age spread” if you like, but having put on a few pounds over the years ( don´t we all), the noise is now akin to a pneumatic drill going off at regular intervals in the night.

Making your relationship work

totanaliz — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 13:17:00 +0100

Once the kids come along, it can be hard to find time for each other, but making your relationship work takes effort. The following key areas all need time and attention in a successful partnership. It isn´t easy, but you do reap the rewards!

How to get more freelance work

totanaliz — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 13:09:00 +0100

It´s not easy working freelance. One of the hardest aspects is the crystal ball gazing that you have to do on a regular basis to try and guess where the next lot of income or next project is coming from. Try to minimize the risk by adopting a few of these tips. Some are really simple, and take just minutes, whilst others take a little time, effort and money to implement. Try a few and see if you can improve cash flow and predictability for your business.

Getting Organized in the Kitchen

Taylor_Blue — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:56:00 +0100

The kitchen is where everything happens. It’s where our food is…it’s the most important room in your house. It’s usually the most neglected room too. Now that can all change.

Back to School Supply Shopping on a Budget

Taylor_Blue — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:12:00 +0100

Shopping for school supplies can be brutal on the budget. When I was in high school I remember looking through every flyer trying to find out who had the best deals. I wanted to get the best value for the money. It can still be done today with a little preparation you can make your money go further.

Practical Stain Removal – Getting rid of common household spills

admin — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:49:00 +0100

My kids aren´t particularly accident prone, but we still have our daily share of spills, thrills and mess all over the floor, carpet and clothes. Sometimes the stains are easier to remove than others, and sometimes I just don´t know where to start! Use this basic guide to help you remove some of the most common stains in the home during your kids formative years!

Make the most of Vinegar

totanaliz — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:35:00 +0100

Vinegar is one of nature´s wonder products. Safe and harmless to use and with so many different uses around the home and garden, you will wonder what you did without it!

Back to School Clothes Shopping on a Budget

admin — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:56:00 +0100

Back to school clothes shopping is something as a parent I hate doing. But the kids love it. These hints will make you feel easier about spending your money and enjoy the shopping. Smart back to school clothes shopping is something everyone can learn to do. Here are some ways to save money this back to school season.

Back to school tips – Getting through the first day

admin — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 09:53:00 +0100

Most children feel excited about returning to school, tinged with regret that the long, enjoyable summer is finally over! But for some kids, the first day back can be a time for nerves and worries, especially if they have moved to a new school. Here are some hints to help them through the first day.

Back to School Basics

totanaliz — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 09:26:00 +0100

It is that time of the year again, when all the kids want to think about are holidays, sun and fun. But for moms and dads, planning ahead is vital and the summer break is an ideal opportunity to sort out what your kids wil need for the next academic year. Plan ahead, don´t get caught out in the last minute rush, and your kids will be ready and raring to go when term time comes around again.

Raise a Healthy Child and Prevent the Concerning Obesity Trends

restoringmom — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 06:00:00 +0100

Obesity is rapidly becoming the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Recent statics indicating that 3 out of 4 Americans will be obese by 2015 are alarming to me as a physician who has seen the impact of obesity, diabetes and heart disease on patients.

These trends are concerning to me as a mother of two young daughters because my daughters will be young teenagers by 2015. This is a mere 8 years away. Plus I want to be one of the 1 in 4, or the 25 %. who are not in the overweight category.

Back to School Adjustment Tips for Children

admin — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 14:53:00 +0100

Back to school is a hard time for children. They must go from sleeping in, staying up late and relaxing to a strict schedule and rigorous learning. It can also be emotionally trying on children, as they adjust to spending time with few friends to the large social scale of school. Here are tips for helping children adjust to going back to school.

Helping Children Cope if Harry Potter Dies

restoringmom — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:38:00 +0100

Even though I haven’t witnessed the Harry Potter phenomenon (much) through the eyes of my own children, I have been concerned recently as a grief and loss specialist with the potential impact on children following the release of the last book in the series, ''Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows." This article offers some of the information I have shared in the past with other parents on helping children cope with death, in this case, of a fictional friend.

Household Tricks with Salt

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 23:57:00 +0100

There are amazing things to do with one of the most common item in your kitchen: salt. Believe it or not, something as humble as a shaker of salt can be used for various housekeeping tasks, ranging from arranging flowers to repairing wood water stains to soothing bug bites. Here is a list of household uses for salt.

Car Games for a Long Journey

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:55:00 +0100

I realized sitting down to write this that we have been on several three and four hour road trips recently with no TV and no video games in the car. Most of the time it has been OK – we flew East Coast to Hawaii with no electronic boosters (the plane had no movie) as well. Sure I have to peel them off each other sometimes – four kids (5,7,9,11) get into it but here are some of the car games we play when the books and the coloring get old – oh and the lack of TV is just because the portable broke – not an ethical standpoint. Some of these are oldies but goldies but they can while away the hours.

Fast Breakfast Recipes

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:43:00 +0100

Always seem to be in a rush to get out of the door in the morning? Fed up with giving the kids a quick bowl of sugary cereal before school? Then try these healthy and quick options for alternative breakfasts in a hurry, and give your body a boost at the start of the day!

Cosleeping with Children

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:30:00 +0100

Little K has dozed off and it is quiet in the house. Everyone else is still with Grandma after the great househunting expedition. Little K was excited about getting Pizza tonight and even picked up all her toys before climbing up next to her dad, who is also asleep, and drifting off.

Falafel Recipe

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:20:00 +0100

Falafels are spicy little patties originating in the Middle East, and with the blend of spices make a tasty filling for a lunchtime pita bread. Or just add a large salad, portion of rice or couscous to this falafel recipe and you have a tasty, substantial and healthy low fat meal.

Freedom for Children

admin — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:21:00 +0100

Little K is clicking away happily. She is a wonder. Five and able to navigate the internet. Unlike her siblings who can generally spell, I can tell what she is on by what she asks to spell.

Foods that will help you lose weight

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 23:13:00 +0100

Stop spending your money on diet products that will never work anyways, go to the grocery store instead. There are foods there that can help you fight hunger, stop your sugar cravings, boost your metabolism and help you lose weight.

Healthy Dips for Kids

admin — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 15:42:00 +0100

Kids can be picky eaters who often turn their noses up to foods like vegetables and meat, but try using these healthy dip ideas to encourage them to widen their food choices. Toddlers, preschoolers and even older kids just love to dip their food! Here are some healthy dip ideas for kids.

Fruit Popsicle Recipe

Taylor_Blue — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 19:34:00 +0100

These popsicles are only 50 calories each and made of real fruit. Enjoy this real fruit popsicle recipe, featuring healthy ingredients like blackberries and peaches, that your kids will enjoy and you will rest easy knowing the summertime fun popsicle treat is healthy.

Simple Rules of Cleaning

Taylor_Blue — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 00:14:00 +0100

When it’s time to clean your house you want it done quickly and with as little effort as possible. Use these rules and you’ll be fine.

Best Back to School Backpacks for Teen Boys

admin — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 02:00:00 +0100

The backpack is easily one of the most crucial back to school buys for teens, and it's important to the parents that the backpack be functional and easy on the back. For your teen boy, however, it must foremost be cool. Here are the best backpacks for teen boys that are both practical and cool.

Family Travel in Spain - Spanish Holidays with the Kids

admin — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 10:24:00 +0100

OK, I admit it, I am a little biased. After all, I love Spain so much that I left the UK to live here, but even so, the reasons that make it a perfect place to live apply equally to holidays. Thinking of going a little further afield this summer? Why not try a family vacation in Spain? With guaranteed sunshine, family-friendly lifestyles and great beaches, there really is something for everyone.

Living Together, Living Apart - Coping with Time Apart from Your Spouse

admin — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 09:22:00 +0100

I haven´t seen a lot of my partner in the past 17 years. I sometimes think that is how we have stayed married for the last 10 years, and are still on speaking terms! For most of our life together, we have been apart.

When Children Copy Older Siblings

admin — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:31:00 +0100

Younger children look up to their big brothers and sisters, and love to imitate them, much to the annoyance of the older child. Here are some strategies to cope when the going gets tough!

What to Say or Do for a NICU Parent

restoringmom — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 05:15:00 +0100

When a baby has been admitted to the NICU, family and friends can fear saying or doing the wrong thing so much that they don't do anything at all; this is not helpful for a NICU parents who could use support.

In this article the author gives some helpful suggestions of what to say and what to do for the parents when a baby gets admitted to the NICU.

The arrival of Alex

totanaliz — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 12:31:00 +0100

My second son Alex is the complete opposite of his big brother. He is almost 5 now, and for him life always seems great, and his glass is “half full” and never half empty! One of life´s smilers and charmers, he is cute beyond belief, and wilful too.

Cameron´s Story - Giving birth in England.

totanaliz — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 09:49:00 +0100

My son Cameron, now aged 7, can be a bit of a dreamer at times. Lost in his own little world, and does things in his own good time. It seems he has always been that way – over 2 weeks late for his own due date in May 2000. Finally he decided to arrive and after a few false starts, things finally got going.

Top 10 Signs You Had a NICU Baby

admin — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 02:36:00 +0100

All NICU moms and dads have a few things in common. It's a trying time having a baby in the NICU, and those of us who've been there are in a special club. Thinking back on the NICU days are sad but sweet. Here's a little humor (mingled with sadness) about this tough experience for parents who've had a baby in the NICU. Here are the top 10 signs you had a baby in the NICU.

A Doll for a Boy?

admin — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 18:59:00 +0100

"C really likes his doll,” S tells TRL. S has been going through old boxes and found her Saul and Gusie dolls from her youth. The one with curly blonde string hair has been taken in by E, while C gravitates to the younger bald one, which E promptly denounced as a “bowling ball.”

Best Back to School Backpacks for Teen Girls

admin — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 01:39:00 +0100

It can be so hard to get something a teen girl thinks is cool. Once you hit the age of 25, you just don't get it anymore to them. Prove them wrong by delivering one of these too-cool back to school backpacks for teen girls.

When One Twin or Multiple Goes Home from the NICU

admin — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 20:36:00 +0100

As if having a baby in the NICU weren't hard enough, parents of twins and multiples get a double (or triple or quadruple) dose of stress when the babies are separated. Often times, one baby is ready to go home from the NICU before another. Not only is this a joyous yet intensely painful experience, but it's also a logistical nightmare. Here are tips for coping when one twin or multiple goes home from the NICU first.

Secrets to Staying Slim

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 18:12:00 +0100

Here are the secrets everyone wishes they knew to be slim. These habits will set your lifetime to healthy eating.

Salad Recipes

admin — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 17:49:00 +0100

Summer is here, and the weekly markets are awash with fresh and tasty seasonal vegetables. As the weather gets hotter, salads become a more attractive option – an easy and cheap to prepare and no cooking needed! Instead of making the typical boring salads, spice things up with these creative salad recipes.

Complimentary NICU eBook Now Available - Looking for Feedback

restoringmom — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 08:57:00 +0100

"For Those Who Hold the Littlest Hands" is a freely available colorful eBook resource for NICU parents with information, encouragement and resources to support NICU parents through their Neonatal Intensive Care Unit experience.

Best Beaches for Kids and Parents

admin — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 02:18:00 +0100

Not all beaches are created equal. Some beaches cater more to rowdy 18-year-olds for Beach Week. Some are a little too quiet to keep the kids entertained. Here are the best family beach vacations, each one a beach destination that is ideal for both parents and kids.

Flying with Infants and Toddlers

admin — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 23:58:00 +0100

Your infant may technically be able to fly for free if he or she is under age two. Airlines do not require plane tickets for those infants and toddlers who sit in an adult's lap. That doesn't necessarily mean it's a good idea. If you wouldn't dream of traveling in a car with your infant loose, you probably should consider that when flying.

Cruise Vacations with Kids

admin — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 23:28:00 +0100

Cruise vacations with kids can be a wonderful getaway. You have a contained, and rather safe, environment. The parents and kids can see sites and cities with ease. You won't stay in any destination long enough for kids to get bored. Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to families. Here are tips to find the perfect cruise vacation with kids.

Getting Your Preschooler to Listen

admin — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 16:49:00 +0100

Preschoolers aren’t always the greatest at following directions or listening, it isn’t one of their favourite things to do at this stage. It is important to teach them to listen to you though because tuning you and others out will become a habit.

Summer Backyard Safety for Children

admin — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 16:12:00 +0100

Summer is here and everyone seems to go out and play more. For your children there always seems to be places for them to get hurt. Here are some tips to keep them safe in the pool, sandbox, and more.

How to Reduce Caffeine During Pregnancy

admin — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 15:07:00 +0100

During pregnancy, a small amount of caffeine is safe, but it is recommended that expecting moms reduce their caffeine to that level. Most caffeinated drinks also provide empty calories and sugar beyond the caffeine. If you're a coffee or soda junkie, this could be tough. Here is a pain-free method for reducing or eliminating your daily caffeine.

Dreamfeeding Tips to Help Baby Sleep at Night

admin — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 14:35:00 +0100

Night wakings with baby are easily one of the toughest aspects of life with a newborn. It sometimes seems you no sooner set head to pillow than your baby cries for a feeding. By dreamfeeding, you can help your baby sleep through the night and get your sleep yourself in those early months. Here is a step-by-step guide to dreamfeeding your baby.

Marriage Survival Tips with a New Baby

admin — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:24:00 +0100

The first six weeks after a couple becomes parents are easily among the toughest times in a marriage. It is not uncommon to fight, sometimes even often and viciously. Here are tips to survive your marriage during the first six weeks after a baby arrives.

The Secret to Parenting Revealed: Sweatpants

admin — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 18:57:00 +0100

TRL* has fully integrated into suburbia and parenting. It’s not that he wears sweatpants everywhere, it’s that he now has different sweatpants for different occasions.

5 Ways to Get Rid of Your Old Baby Gear and Children's Items

admin — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 12:55:00 +0100

If you have kids, you probably have closets, your garage and perhaps even unclaimed corners of rooms packed with boxes of no-longer-needed baby gear, children's clothes, toys, books and furniture. Here are five great ways to get rid of the unwanted and unneeded children's items, and some allow you to earn money doing it.

Divide the Household Chores

admin — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 02:19:00 +0100

If you're fighting with your husband, wife or kids constantly over household chores, it's time to take control of the situation. You can have a cleaner house, and fewer fights, by establishing a fair division of duties between everyone in the family. Here are tips on dividing household chores fairly.

Premature Babies

admin — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 23:04:00 +0100

Premature babies can have different needs than full-term babies, and you can expect your premature baby to develop and grow at a different rate. The delayed milestones are usually not a concern unless they are extremely delayed. It can really be helpful to adjust your premature baby's age based on their due date, not their birth date. Here are things you can expect with your premature baby.

How Moms Can Control Negative Thoughts and Emotions

admin — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 02:04:00 +0100

As stay at home moms (or dads) it seems like the majority (or all) of the things that go right or wrong around the house falls on us. We can feel angry, depressed, frustrated and guilty when we have to deal with everything at once. These negative feelings and emotions are to be expected, they signal a need for change and for us to do some problem solving. We need to learn how to cope with these feelings and deal with these conflicts in a manner that has more self control.

Twin Pregnancy

admin — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 01:13:00 +0100

Twin pregnancy is not like a singleton pregnancy. Women pregnant with twins will have different dietary needs, as well as increased risks for conditions such as preterm labor. The best way to a healthy twin pregnancy is to educate yourself on the various issues and get the best prenatal care for a twin pregnancy possible.

Rewards for Children for Positive Behavior

admin — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 22:58:00 +0100

Rewards are something that can be used to reinforce positive behavior in your children. The rewards can be a special treat, special privileges, stickers or even money. You can also use rewards for encouraging your child to accomplish a difficult task. How can a reward system be used effectively?

New Mom Postpartum Diet - Like Mom, Like Baby Diet

admin — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 21:09:00 +0100

New moms all want to lose that baby weight, and all are time-strapped to create healthy meals. How many times have you served your baby an organic, nutritious baby food, then turned around and nuked leftover pizza? Well, use the same principles of feeding your baby solid foods that you use on your own diet and you can lose weight with the Like Mom, Like Baby Diet for postpartum moms.

Taylor_Blue's Birth Story - Stillbirth Scare and Drive to Hospital in Snowstorm

admin — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 19:13:00 +0100

I was over a week late and I noticed that the baby wasn't moving around much. Would this labor go quick or would I be stuck with a horrible long labor? This is my story.

Talking to your Teen about Anger

admin — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 00:31:00 +0100

Teenagers seem to always be angry. Here’s how you can help them. You are the force that can help your teen talk about their anger instead of acting it out. Even if your relationship isn’t the most perfect one with your teen, there are still ways you can help your teen cope with their anger.

Diaper Genie is Not Magic

admin — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 16:46:00 +0100

A statuesque piece of plastic sits majestically in TRL’s* garage. Long and tapered at the end, shiny white, waiting for transportation to the dump. Which is ironic. And not like rain on your wedding day. It is TRL’s arch nemesis: the Diaper Genie.

Eating out Smart

Taylor_Blue — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 23:17:00 +0100

Who is to blame for the obesity epidemic in children? Fast food outlets? Soda companies? What about parents? No matter how easy it is to cast blame for obese kids on some evil, dark force in the marketplace, we parents must also take our share of the blame…especially for poor food choices and the volume of food consumed when eating out. We know that people will more food if they are presented with large serving sizes.

Finger Food Fruit Salad Recipe for Babies

admin — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 03:14:00 +0100

This finger food fruit salad recipe for babies features all no-boil-or-bake fruits that are soft enough for early finger food eaters to handle. It's a great way to provide fresh healthy fruit to babies without spending a bunch of time in the kitchen. It's also great for the rest of the family to nibble on, and makes a nice appetizer that older children and adults can nibble while cranky, hungry babies get some food.

Some Mistakes Parents Make with Timeouts

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 20:34:00 +0100

Most parents use time outs, but are they being used effectively? For time outs to be effective there are some mistakes you shouldn’t make.

How to Connect with Your Teen

admin — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 18:54:00 +0100

Your teen is an amazing thing to watch. They are exploring, testing and developing. The teenager's room is always a mess and the music is always loud, but your teen is trying to figure out where they fit in this crazy world. The good news is that we can help our teenagers by connecting better.

Gardening with kids – Teaching your kids to grow simple, edible crops

totanaliz — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 17:34:00 +0100

My boys love pottering in the garden and planting “their” plants in small pots. It´s an added bonus if they produce anything edible, although I find that it is not so much “green fingers” in our house as mucky ones!

Talking to your Teen about Bullying and Teasing

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 02:44:00 +0100

Bullying has become an epidemic. Every school has one it seems. And no one is exempt. People are getting bullied and then they put it on YouTube?. Here are some ways to talk to your teen about it.

Doulas For Pregnancy, Labor, Birth, and Postpartum Support

admin — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 01:43:00 +0100

The word "doula" is derived from ancient Greek, meaning "woman caregiver of another woman." Modern doulas are women who are hired by the expectant mother to give prenatal advice and assistance during pregnancy, labor, and birth. The employment of doulas has been shown to increase the safety of childbirth, and increases expectant mothers' knowledge and confidence about their bodies' abilities. Many birth doulas also offer postpartum support, to help a new mother with the challenges of newborn care, breastfeeding, and other challenges.

Vegetarian Pregnancy Diet

admin — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 22:14:00 +0100

During a vegetarian pregnancy, it is crucial to be sure you get the various nutrients needed while expecting into your diet. I'm inspired to write this article because I am four weeks pregnant. Since I am a lacto-ovo vegetarian, today my doula/nurse/midwife friend counseled me on the phone about what I am eating every day.

Tips for Travel with Young Children

admin — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:54:00 +0100

These days, parents travel all over the place with their kids. But travelling with young children and babies can be stressful. With a little forethought and organisation you can make it a more pleasureable experience for both you and your children.

Bed Rest Survival Kit

admin — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:42:00 +0100

If you have just been put on bed rest, you may be preparing to settle in for the long haul and gathering your necessities. Inevitably you will find yourself in need of something that you hadn't thought of before. Here are some hints for items that you should have within reach while you are on bed rest.

Homemade Fruit and Vegetable Puree Recipes for Babies

admin — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:20:00 +0100

Here are some yummy puree recipes for babies 6 months and older. These baby food recipes include a vegetable puree, pear and blueberry puree, and a strawberry peach and apple puree.

Best PDA Handhelds for Busy Moms and Dads

admin — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:39:00 +0100

Busy moms juggle so many things to do and remember, it's a miracle anything gets done. A great PDA, or personal digital assistant, is a compact gadget that helps you keep track of doctor's appointments, phone numbers, your diet, your work and even your to-do list. Here is a list of the best PDA handhelds for busy moms and dads.

Benefits of Creating a Family Web Site

admin — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:09:00 +0100

It’s not everyday that we can find the time that we want to spend with our families. With all the demands in life, long working hours, and taking care of domestic affairs, family can sometimes take a temporary backseat. But, new technology on the Web today can revive the importance of family and highlight extraordinary moments with family Web sites.

Raising A Vegetarian Child

admin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:50:00 +0100

Humans evolved for more than 150 million years on a raw vegetarian diet of fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetables. A well-balanced diet low in animal products and high in vegetable products has been linked to prevention of heart disease and cancer. Here is some information on raising a vegetarian child.

How Parents Can Get Personal Computer Time

admin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:47:00 +0100

If you are like me, then you consider your time on the computer to be really personal, and at times crucially important. When our precious little ones need or want to be held and read to, then it is probably time to put your work aside and give them attention. But if you are sure that they really don't need anything, and they just want "their turn" with the mouse or the keyboard, there are some things that you can do to maintain the sanctity of your personal computer time.

Pregnancy After the Age of 35

admin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 09:53:00 +0100

I was 36 when I got pregnant with my first son, Cameron. Until that point, I´d been far too busy running a business and working as a Corporate Trainer. Time had crept up on me, and by the time we decided to try for a baby I was classed as an “elderly primigravida” by the doctor. Surely they could come up with a better term than that for us “mature first timers”! I was only 36 for goodness sake!

Freelancing Tips for Moms and Dads

admin — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 12:50:00 +0100

Flexibility is key to freelancing and thriving, and the saying “don´t put all your eggs into one basket” turns out to be true. You will need several income streams to generate a living wage by freelancing, and the juggling skills of Coco the Clown to succeed! Here are some ideas to get moms and dads started on a stay at home freelance career.

Time Management Tips for Moms

admin — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 09:21:00 +0100

Give your time management skills an overhaul with these simple ideas. It´s not rocket science, and you may already know this in theory, but do you really practice these skills? Moms can make an effort to manage your time more effectively and see how much you can achieve. Use these tips for time management for moms.

Gifts for NICU Babies

admin — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 01:46:00 +0100

Choosing a gift for a NICU baby can be delicate. Since the baby's birth was premature and he or she is remaining in the NICU, it isn't the straightforward joyous time most births are. You might be concerned about giving a gift that is insensitive, or will upset the parents. Here are gift ideas for babies in the NICU.

NICU Phobia

admin — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 00:44:00 +0100

If you are pregnant, and particularly if you had a preemie baby stay in the NICU in the past, you are probably terrified of the prospect of it happening again. NICU phobia is normal and anyone who's had a baby in the NICU will probably want to avoid reliving that experience. There are ways to ease your NICU phobia.

Duck, Brown Rice and Pear Homemade Baby Food Recipe

admin — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 14:45:00 +0100

The homemade baby food provides a mix of health benefits. The duck is rich in iron and protein and the fat content is not a concern for babies who need it. The brown rice is full of fiber and antioxidants like manganese, plus it helps with the synthesis of fatty acids. The pear provides additional fiber, as well as antioxidants like vitamin C to protect agains free radicals. Here is a homemade baby food recipe featuring duck, brown rice and pear.

Getting Rid of the Pacifier

admin — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:12:00 +0100

Pacifier weaning can be one of the hardest challenges for a child. Whether you're getting rid of an infant or baby's pacifier or persuading a preschooler to wean off the pacifier, it is no easy sell. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting rid of the pacifier.

Temper Tantrum Myths

Taylor_Blue — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:38:00 +0100

Most parents get their knowledge from many places. The most common places being experiences from growing up, watching parenting shows on television and any research they may have done from books or the internet. Some of this information is useful, but sometimes it may be based on the writers own views and sometimes it’s not even researched right. Not all of what you hear about temper tantrums may be true.

Looking after no. 1 – Pampering tips for overworked Moms

totanaliz — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:23:00 +0100

With so many moms working, whether it is full-time, self employed or in the home, our lives are becoming increasingly more frantic. And if you throw in the demands of children, husbands, grandparents, work, pets and more into the mix, no wonder there is very little time left over to look after yourself. Try a few of these tips and create a little “me” time in your life.

The Family Table - Slow Food for Families

admin — Thu, 31 May 2007 02:01:00 +0100

In this day of working parents, high technology and hectic lifestyles, the family dinner table is easy to neglect. There are many benefits to maintaining the sanctity of the family dinner table, and adopting some of the Slow Food movement's credos for your family.

Promoting Good Dental Health In Your Family

kieransmom — Wed, 30 May 2007 22:43:00 +0100

There are several things that you can do to promote good dental health in your children. It's important to protect baby teeth, because the health of your child's first teeth indicates the future health of his permanent teeth. Tooth decay and abscesses are painful, can lead to serious illnesses, yet are preventable.

Early Childhood Dental Caries

kieransmom — Wed, 30 May 2007 18:43:00 +0100

I experienced a dreadful feeling that sunk to the pit of my stomach when I saw spots on my son's front top teeth when he was two years old. Like lots of other parents, I had been fastidiously cleaning his gums before he even sprouted his first tooth, and brushed his teeth with flouride toothpaste. Now, he has cavities! How could this have happened? My mother-in-law blamed it on nighttime nursing, and for the first time, I thought maybe her criticism of my parenting had some merit.

Managing your Budget

admin — Wed, 30 May 2007 14:32:00 +0100

It is possible to save money in almost every area of your home. Small changes to the way you and your family behave can soon add up to a substantial sum over the course of the year. Just be patient, you might not be able to change your kids behaviour overnight!

Making Your Money Go Further

admin — Wed, 30 May 2007 10:27:00 +0100

If you are anything like me, you always have too much month left at the end of the money! Kids are expensive, and the little beggars just keep on growing, meaning that cash-strapped parents need to keep on buying trainers, clothes, school uniforms and more in ever increasing sizes.

Vegetarian Recipe - Mushroom Roulade

totanaliz — Wed, 30 May 2007 09:55:00 +0100

Vegetarian food doesn´t have to be boring! Even my kids love this tasty mushroom roulade. Serve it with freshly cooked vegetables, couscous or salad for a healthy family meal.

How Your Life Changes After Kids Arrive

hockeydad — Wed, 30 May 2007 02:39:00 +0100

I’m sitting here looking at a picture of 1956 Porsche Speedster. The little two door convertible is silver, black interior, and Speedster written in gold script on the sides just in front of the doors. It’s a beautiful machine with just the right amount of curves to challenge any woman. It has sun filled days driving along the Pacific Coast Highway or possibly somewhere in the south of France along the Mediterranean Sea written all over it, but it doesn’t have the latch system, so no can have.

Healthy Snacks for Kids

Taylor_Blue — Tue, 29 May 2007 17:11:00 +0100

Here are some healthy snacks for anytime of the day.

Children Afraid of the Dark

admin — Tue, 29 May 2007 14:56:00 +0100

Being afraid of the dark is one of the most common fears a child has. Thinking back to my childhood I was really scared of the dark. We lived in the country and it was pitch black at night. I still had a night light when I was eleven years old because I thought something might get me in the dark. Here are some solutions to help your child through this time.

Rum truffles and Coconut Ice - Sweet treats for your kids to make

totanaliz — Tue, 29 May 2007 10:04:00 +0100

I´m a big advocate of healthy eating, but everyone needs a treat occasionally. Kids love to help to make these sweets, and they make a thoughtful handmade gift for grandparents and are ideal as a contribution to fetes and school fairs.

Spaghetti Bolognese

totanaliz — Tue, 29 May 2007 09:15:00 +0100

I´m sure that many people have now heard of Low G.I (glycaemic index) eating plans. For those who haven´t, the Glycaemic Index of a food measures the speed at which it is digested into our bloodstream. Foods with a lower GI are absorbed slowly, helping our blood sugar levels to rise and fall gently. This makes us feel “full” for longer and, in theory, less inclined to snack and overeat.

Coping With Criticism About Breastfeeding

kieransmom — Sun, 27 May 2007 00:18:00 +0100

"How long do you expect to keep that up?" "Are you still nursing?" "Wouldn't it be easier to just use formula?" You have a choice in how you deal with breastfeeding criticism. It all depends on your mood at the time, your individual personality, and the mindset of (and your relationship with) your critic.

Top 10 Things You Should Never Say to a Pregnant Woman

admin — Sat, 26 May 2007 15:29:00 +0100

During my pregnancies, it never ceased to amaze me the rude and inappropriate things people would say to me. It's like somehow, once you are pregnant, all typical rules of civility go out the window. Suddenly, it's perfectly acceptible for people to call you fat or comment on your reproductive organs or sex history. Hello? Well, here are 10 things you should never say to a pregnant woman. And for you pregnant women, each one includes a snappy comeback to use on offenders.

Parenting with a Plan

admin — Fri, 25 May 2007 23:18:00 +0100

Having children and raising them is a hard job. They seem to not come with instructions and their batteries never run out. Here are some suggestions that will help every situation you may encounter easier to handle, no matter what your solution will be.

Breastfeeding Concerns and Milk Supply

admin — Fri, 25 May 2007 20:03:00 +0100

The most common breastfeeding worry for mothers is that they are not making enough milk. Many mothers are not aware that the normal course of breastfeeding brings on changes in the baby's behavior and in your breasts, and you erroneously assume that baby is not thriving at the breast. Here are some common "false alarms" that should put every breastfeeding mother's mind to ease, and also to indicate whether you truly need to increase your milk supply.

Breastfeeding In Crisis Situations

admin — Fri, 25 May 2007 00:44:00 +0100

When a mother and child find themselves embroiled in a crisis situation, fear can easily take over during war, terrorist attacks, hurricane, earthquake, or other natural disasters. During times of such disasters, many governments respond by distributing infant formula, but that has been proven to cause further catastrophe.

La Leche League International

admin — Thu, 24 May 2007 20:54:00 +0100

From ancient times, mothers have helped each other learn the womanly art of breastfeeding. No book compares to talking with an experienced mother who understands the challenges of nursing. Participating in a La Leche League meeting means surrounding yourself with other caring and knowledgeable breastfeeding mothers, and also mothers who have weaned their children but still wish to help other mothers to enjoy breastfeeding relationships.

Babysitter Interview Checklist

admin — Thu, 24 May 2007 02:07:00 +0100

You've already completed the first important steps in the babysitting process: making definite plans to get the heck out of the house, searching for babysitters and selecting your top-notch favorites. Next up? The interview.

How Your Child Develops Between Ages 5-6

admin — Wed, 23 May 2007 11:30:00 +0100

The child's year between age 5 and age 6 is a key stage in your child´s development, as the focus switches to preparing for school, learning in a more formal environment, and the rules of acceptable behaviour.

Child Development Between Ages 4 - 5

admin — Wed, 23 May 2007 11:22:00 +0100

Your four-year-old child is continuing to develop at a phenomenal rate, and absorbs information like a sponge! Here are key development milestone for children ages 4-5.

Human Milk Banks

kieransmom — Tue, 22 May 2007 21:48:00 +0100

The knowledge that human milk is best for human babies has influenced areas of the world where scientific and medical technology is as advanced as purified water is available, and has led to the openings of several human milk banks. Lactating mothers with abundant milk supplies can donate their pumped milk to a milk bank, where pasteurizing equipment processes the milk and is then prescribed to babies who need human milk to survive. There are strict guidelines in place to regulate the banking of human milk.

Empowered Childbirth

kieransmom — Tue, 22 May 2007 18:37:00 +0100

Preparing for childbirth is a physiological process, and it is also a psychological and spiritual endeavor in which we draw from our own pools of knowledge and beliefs. Our individual attitudes about womanhood and mothering have been instilled in each of us for our entire lives, since we were children, especially growing up in a medical culture, and affect how we approach childbirth.

Human Milk Is Best

kieransmom — Tue, 22 May 2007 18:30:00 +0100

Breastfeeding is a personal decision, one that should be made with all the information that you can gather from modern research. It seems that every day another benefit of nursing is discovered. Nobody is shocked when they hear that breastfeeding can increase survival rates for babies in poverty-stricken areas of the world where purified water is unavailable to make infant formula. Ideal infant feeding is still in question in the prosperous areas of developed countries, as the debate on breastfeeding and formula feeding rages on.

Child Development Between Ages 3 - 4

admin — Tue, 22 May 2007 10:46:00 +0100

From ages 3-4, children develop rapidly. They hone their motor skills, can draw in a more sophisticated manner, their vocabulary is growing and they are getting just a little more independent. Here are some key child development milestones for three-year-olds.

Child Development Between Ages 2 – 3

totanaliz — Tue, 22 May 2007 10:19:00 +0100

Two-year-olds are fascinating, as they are just beginning to develop a whole slew of new skills. They can walk, run and draw basic scribbles. Between ages 2-3, children know about 1200-1500 words, so you can start having basic communication with your two-year-old. Here are the child development milestones for ages 2-3.

Natural remedies for the First Aid box

totanaliz — Tue, 22 May 2007 09:19:00 +0100

If your children are anything like my 2 boys, minor cuts and grazes, bumps, insect bites and scrapes are an almost everyday occurance! Keeping a well stocked First Aid kit in the home is essential if you have young children.

Baby Slings

admin — Tue, 22 May 2007 08:41:00 +0100

Baby slings are popular baby carriers. The fact that babies like to listen to a mother´s heartbeat and be held close is well documented. Soothing, calming and restful, the act of carrying your baby close to your chest also has other advantages. Use these steps to select the right baby sling.

Getting the Most from Doctor’s Appointments

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 21 May 2007 15:07:00 +0100

With all the things you need to see your doctor for like prescription refills, sleep concerns, diet changes and other concerns, you have a lot of information to get through to your doctor. If your doctor has a room full of other people waiting for him in the waiting room (which doctor doesn’t) you may only have a few minutes to address all of your concerns.

Avoid Night Wakings with Baby

hockeydad — Mon, 21 May 2007 02:30:00 +0100

There’s that noise again waking you from your dreams. It starts off barely audible and you try to ignore it in the darkness. Slowly it builds momentum and you lay there in bed, pleading to the ceiling that it will go away and you can go back to sleep, but it doesn’t subside, it grows to a high pitched shriek and you feel it penetrating you eardrums like an ice pick. Only then do you give up hope of returning to your restful slumber. The baby is awake.

How to Avoid Gestational Diabates

admin — Sun, 20 May 2007 15:31:00 +0100

While there is no way to guarantee you won't get gestational diabates, there are many ways to help prevent gestational diabates. You can exercise with doctor's approval, eat well and keep a close eye on blood sugar levels to lower your risk of gestational diabates. Here are the steps to avoiding gestational diabates.

Grandmother Etiquette

admin — Sun, 20 May 2007 14:56:00 +0100

It can be exciting to become a new grandmother, and grandmothers benefit from the wisdom of having been there, done that. Still, that doesn't mean the new mom wants grandma hovering over her with incessant pointers and nagging. Here are grandmother etiquette tips to avoid annoying the new (or, even more so, repeat) mom.

Dangerous Baby Foods

admin — Sun, 20 May 2007 12:37:00 +0100

When baby starts on solid foods, you are starting from scratch with someone who has never eaten anything but formula or breast milk. There are some foods which babies are more likely to have allergic reactions to, some that are choking hazards, and some that pose health risks. Here is a list of dangerous baby foods to avoid before age 1.

Moving your Child to the Big Toddler Bed

admin — Sat, 19 May 2007 23:48:00 +0100

Every child reacts differently to this stage. This transition can be very exciting or very scary. Here are ways that can help make this smooth riding.

Baby Travel Gear

admin — Sat, 19 May 2007 16:53:00 +0100

Traveling with a baby means needing a whole host of essential gear, from being sure baby is safe to feeding to diaper changing on the go. Here is some must-have baby travel gear.

Babylegs

admin — Sat, 19 May 2007 12:30:00 +0100

It is a rare and special thing to find any product for children, particularly a clothing item, that lasts more than a month or so. It is even cooler when you find one that can be worn by all ages: babies, toddlers, children, teens and even mom. Babylegs leg warmers not only meet that criteria, but they just look cool.

Coping with Gestational Diabetes

admin — Sat, 19 May 2007 01:15:00 +0100

A gestational diabetes diagnosis can be terrifying and even aggravating news to a pregnant woman already coping with any number of discomforts. You might find you are scared, confused, worried about its impact on your baby, and even enraged that you now must control your diet and prick yourself with a needle for numerous tests each day. Here are tips for coping with gestational diabetes.

Choosing a Name for the Baby

admin — Fri, 18 May 2007 23:36:00 +0100

One of the most important things about being pregnant is that you are going to have to name the baby in there. Their name will follow your child for the rest of his life. It’s not something to be taken lightly.

Disciplining Children With Love

admin — Fri, 18 May 2007 20:28:00 +0100

The word "discipline" has been used interchangeably with the word "punishment" in years past, but I think that effective discipline has much more to do with teaching a child with open communication, taking into consideration the child's abilities for their developmental stage, and guiding them toward appropriate behavior, respecting the child's individual traits, and trusting that the child will grow into a secure and independent adult.

Protecting your Children in the Sun

admin — Fri, 18 May 2007 10:36:00 +0100

I´m writing this from Spain, and although it is only “primavera”, or Spring, temperatures here have hit 35º C already! Keeping your children safe in the sun is important no matter where you live. Childrens´ skin is delicate, and will burn if you don´t protect it properly.

Calming the Morning Madness

admin — Fri, 18 May 2007 01:14:00 +0100

Usually the way the morning starts sets the kind of mood you are in for the rest of the day. For many of us the mood is crazy. With only a little window of time to get everyone ready for the day no wonder we start the morning hectic. But there are things that you can do to make everyone calmer and the morning run smoother.

Traditional Children´s Games - Traffic Lights

admin — Thu, 17 May 2007 17:03:00 +0100

Traditional kids games have been tried and tested by generations of children. They endure because children can play out with nothing more than a few simple rules and some willing companions.

I Made it Myself! – Starter recipes for kids to cook

admin — Thu, 17 May 2007 13:19:00 +0100

There is no greater satisfaction for kids that producing a simple snack on their own. It is a mixture of science, mathematics and magic that will produce an edible end result! The sense of achievement that children get from watching their family eat their “ experiments” can´t be measured.

Taming your Paper Mess

admin — Thu, 17 May 2007 01:25:00 +0100

Do you find you are buried under piles and piles of paper each week? There are so many sources of paper these days like advertising flyers, catalogs, school papers –they can all add up to a big pile quickly. With these tips you can dig a hole in your paper pile.

Surviving Your Baby's NICU Stay

kieransmom — Thu, 17 May 2007 00:22:00 +0100

When you are the parent of a prematurely born, high risk baby in the NICU, your life gets turned upside down. It can seem that there is no end in sight, and you may have to struggle every day to keep yourself from a depression. Here are some tips on keeping yourself healthy and sane while your precious baby is getting ready to go home with you.

Organizing Tips for Forgetful Moms

admin — Wed, 16 May 2007 15:07:00 +0100

You are probably searching for something in your house right now. You know you had it a second ago or you put it in a place where you would never forget. But of course, you forgot it. Here are some organizing tips for forgetful moms to help you find what you need when you need it.

Freelance Writing for Work From Home Moms

admin — Wed, 16 May 2007 00:57:00 +0100

One job that is easy to work at home is that of freelance writing, which makes a great career for moms seeking a way to bring in some income. You don't have to be experienced in writing to start a work from home freelance writing career. Here are steps for moms on getting started on freelance writing from home.

Plugged Milk Ducts, Breast Infections, and Mastitis

kieransmom — Wed, 16 May 2007 00:49:00 +0100

If you are feeling run down, achy, have breast discomfort or pain, and are running a fever, then you are likely suffering a bout of mastitis. Mastitis is generally defined as any inflammation of the breast and can be caused by a plugged milk duct or by an infection. Continuing to breastfeed frequently, and resting with your baby in your bed, is the best treatment for your recovery from a plugged milk duct.

Teething, Biting, and The Breastfeeding Mother

kieransmom — Tue, 15 May 2007 22:31:00 +0100

Many mothers experience some changes in their nursing experience when their nurslings reach the stage of teething. Teething makes a baby's gums sore and swollen, and can cause a baby to chew or even bite the mother's nipple to relieve his discomfort. OW! To complicate matters, some biting is not caused by teething! This article will give you some tips on how to cope with this problem and to salvage your pleasant breastfeeding experience.

Teething and Biting

admin — Tue, 15 May 2007 22:24:00 +0100

Many mothers experience some changes in their breastfeeding experience when their nurslings reach the stage of teething. Teething makes a baby's gums sore and swollen, and can cause a baby to chew or bite the mother's nipple to relieve his discomfort. OW! To make matters more complicated, some biting is not caused by teething! This article will give you some tips on how to cope with this problem and to salvage your pleasant breastfeeding experience.

Breastfeeding Multiples

kieransmom — Tue, 15 May 2007 19:33:00 +0100

Many mothers respond to the diagnosis of a multiple pregnancy with mixed emotions, including fear of a high-risk pregnancy and of breastfeeding more than one baby. "How am I going to make enough milk!?" You can prepare for breastfeeding multiples while you are pregnant, by eating foods high in nutritional value and eliminating junk food. You do not want to restrict your weight gain, as that may result in lower birth weight in the babies. Multiples can be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives, just like singletons, so you will have plenty of time to lose that pregnancy weight while you are breastfeeding.

Kangaroo Care For Preemie NICU Babies

admin — Tue, 15 May 2007 18:24:00 +0100

Skin-to-skin contact for preemie NICU infants is called Kangaroo Care for its similarity to a marsupial's pouch, and has greatly increased the survival and improved the development of NICU babies and preemies all over the world.

Father's Day Gifts Dads Really Want

admin — Tue, 15 May 2007 02:05:00 +0100

Father’s day is quickly approaching and before any of you women out there start shopping for gifts, I hope you will read this. I know I’ll probably get some backlash for this and, it's possible I might deserve a little bit of it. But I know the fathers of the world will agree with me, maybe not vocally, but in their hearts. Here are Father's Day gift ideas that don't suck.

Having A Premature Baby In The NICU - A Mother's Feelings

admin — Mon, 14 May 2007 19:09:00 +0100

Delivering a baby prematurely who is placed in the NICU is a particularly traumatic experience for the mother, and she may go through an intense grieving process. Typically, a mother of a preemie will mourn the loss of her pregnancy and of her healthy full-term baby. The initial reactions of these early stages of grief are shock, denial, confusion, and anxiety.

Romance and Marriage after Kids

admin — Mon, 14 May 2007 17:48:00 +0100

Have you and your hubby lost that spark, or is it still there and you just don’t have the time or energy to worry about it? Well, if so then this article is for you. I know that right after you have your baby, many women don’t feel very feminine or pretty at all, while others seem to bask in being a new mom.

Baby Sleep Problems

admin — Mon, 14 May 2007 17:45:00 +0100

There are as many ideas to get baby to sleep, as there are babies. However in this article we are going to discuss some tried and true ways to getting your little one to sleep if you are having baby sleep problems.

Great After School Snacks for Kids

admin — Mon, 14 May 2007 14:44:00 +0100

When my daughter comes home from school she is always hungry. Here are some quick microwave after school snacks they can eat without ruining their supper.

What to Expect When You're Not the One Expecting

admin — Fri, 11 May 2007 02:07:00 +0100

I once saw my wife go through four emotional states within a thirty-second span when she was expecting. Now I’m a fan of roller coasters, the ones that twist and turn and go upside down.

Simplifying and Organizing Basics

admin — Thu, 10 May 2007 22:06:00 +0100

Simplifying is a tamer sort of organizing. If you are drowning in the piles of things you have to organize this is a place to start for you. It may seem overwhelming to just dig in but if you tackle a drawer, closet or room every day or week you’ll be on your way in no time.

Dad View and Father Advice

admin — Thu, 10 May 2007 20:41:00 +0100

You might be wondering, why is there a father’s advice page on a mom’s child site? Well let me ask you, why not? We’re people too, although some of you women out there might disagree. I’m sure you do have your valid points, but if you look at the group as a whole, we are human.

5 Work at Home Business Ideas

admin — Thu, 10 May 2007 19:34:00 +0100

Many moms would love the option of both staying at home and having a career, but many employers won't allow it. There is a solution, which is to take matters into your own hands. Here are five realistic and low start-up cost ideas for businesses moms can work from home.

Backyardigans

admin — Thu, 10 May 2007 17:07:00 +0100

The Backyardigans is one of those rare children's shows that actually isn't annoying to grown-ups who are subjected to it. Children learn an appreciation for music, dance and imagination. The music isn't your typical rhyming kids' tunes, but includes many genres of music and is fun to listen to.

LazyTown

admin — Wed, 09 May 2007 23:59:00 +0100

The LazyTown? TV show appeals to a wide age range of children, and it is one of the only shows for children focused on promoting a healthy lifestyle. LazyTown? uses funny and quirky story lines to encourage children to exercise and eat health foods like fruits and vegetables.

Moms and Working Out

admin — Wed, 09 May 2007 02:24:00 +0100

This is my true story of working out at the gym today and finally getting some exercise.

Understanding the Temper Tantrum

admin — Wed, 09 May 2007 01:45:00 +0100

A temper tantrum is the way your child can express his emotions. He may throw himself on the floor while kicking, scream, cry, and flail his arms around. and sometimes even hold his breath. This may scare you, anger you, or even embarrass you. Here are some tips that can help you understand what’s going on when your child does this.

Homework Help for all ages

admin — Mon, 07 May 2007 02:38:00 +0100

Does your child have a problem finishing homework? Do fight with your kid’s everyday to get their homework done? Do you devote a big part of your time and help them each night?

Homework is given to your child to help them practise what they have learned at school at home. It’s not supposed to teach them new things. Practice is important to help your child get a grasp on crucial skills. But the kids that need the most practice are the ones that find homework to be hard and too long.

Gifts for Moms of NICU Premature Babies

admin — Sun, 06 May 2007 02:43:00 +0100

If you know a mom who has a baby in the NICU, this is an emotional time for the parents. You may want to be supportive, but not know precisely how. It can also be challenging knowing just what gift is right for the mom of a baby in the NICU. You don't want to buy a gift that might be insensitive to the situation. Here are some helpful, caring and much-wanted gifts for moms with babies in the NICU.

Asparagus, Apple and Black Bean Homemade Baby Food Recipe

admin — Sat, 05 May 2007 00:41:00 +0100

This amazing trifecta of healthy ingredients (asparagus, apples and black beans) make for a powerfully nutritious homemade baby food. The combination not only provides powerful antioxidents (and even contains an agent that detoxifies that affects of sulfites commonly found in processed foods), but it also has some beneficial potential secondary effects.

Mango Cantaloupe Homemade Baby Food Recipe

admin — Sat, 05 May 2007 00:01:00 +0100

This mix of mango and cantaloupe serves as a serious power homemade baby food. Both fruits are dense with nurients per serving. The mango and cantaloupe combination packs a wallop of Vitamin C and Beta Carotene, and serves as a wonderful antioxident. It is great served as is, and is well-loved by babies. It also can be mixed with cereal to add the benefits of iron and other nutrients. As a bonus, it is a way to serve your baby two healthy fruits that are rarely seen in store-bought baby food jars.

Making Music with Children

admin — Fri, 04 May 2007 19:14:00 +0100

Small children find it difficult to understand the concepts of “high notes” and “low notes”. They find it much easier to remember things if actions help to clarify the position of the notes. These games help them with the concepts of high and low notes. Here are some fun ways to introduce music to your children.

Healthy Pudding Recipes – Get Fruity

admin — Fri, 04 May 2007 19:05:00 +0100

If your children don´t eat enough fruit, try these tasty puddings. Hard to resist and suitable for the whole family, and much better for you than cakes and high fat desserts.

Grocery Tips for Moms

admin — Fri, 04 May 2007 14:52:00 +0100

Grocery shopping is something we can never get rid of. It’s a necessary evil for all of us. So how can we learn to do it better and save us money in the process?

First Steps to Going Organic

admin — Fri, 04 May 2007 09:21:00 +0100

We have all heard about the benefits of organic foods and products. It can be daunting, not to mention expensive,to try to make the switch to organic produce all at once. Try making a few gradual changes week by week to introduce better quality food into your family´s diet.

Starting Baby on Solid Food

admin — Fri, 04 May 2007 00:20:00 +0100

When your baby is ready for solid foods, you want to be sure to be careful how you introduce the new baby foods. You want to give your baby a chance to adjust to each new food, and you need to watch for your baby's reaction and possible allergy to any new solid foods. Here is a step-by-step guide to introducing your baby to solid foods.

Birthday Parties on a Budget

admin — Thu, 03 May 2007 15:51:00 +0100

We all love to make our child´s big day really special. Sometimes there is a lot of pressure on parents to go “all out” for a huge, epxensive party. But stop and think.. your child´s birthday is just one day – you could find yourself paying for it for a lot longer!

Healthy Alternatives to Fast Food

admin — Thu, 03 May 2007 08:45:00 +0100

If your kids love the taste of some popular fast food products, don´t despair! Help is at hand with these quick and easy recipes. They are low in fat, high in protein and are so easy that.. well, even a child could do it!

Budgeting Basics for Stay at Home Moms

admin — Thu, 03 May 2007 00:08:00 +0100

When you are a stay at home mom and you are budgeting, it’s hard on every member of the family. There may be many things you have to give up in your family budget just so you can stay at home with your kids. No one can take care of your children better than you. For many moms, like in my case. there was no way that I could get a good enough job to pay for the care for both of my kids. I wasn’t willing to work nights while my husband worked days. That left budgeting challenges for my family.

Diet and a Child's Behavior - Does Sugar Really Make Kids Hyper?

admin — Tue, 01 May 2007 18:01:00 +0100

If you think of your child's body as an engine, then the “fuel” that we put in affects their performance. Our aim is to put in food that helps them to perform more effectively. Find out how diet affect your child's mood and behavior, and learn about healthy food alternatives.

Nappy Talk - Disposables vs Re-useables

totanaliz — Tue, 01 May 2007 10:40:00 +0100

Pros and cons of each type of nappy. Find the one that suits you and your baby best.

Kids and dogs

totanaliz — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:15:00 +0100

If only all dogs were as intelligent as Lassie! Well, that would solve part of the problem. However, keeping your child safe around dogs means teaching them some basic safety rules and making sure that your dogs have some basic obedience training too.

Poisonous Plants

Taylor_Blue — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 17:19:00 +0100

Many household and outdoor plants are poisonous. It is important to know what plants might be poisonous in and around you home. In some cases the entire plant is poisonous but sometimes part of the plant maybe poisonous (such as the berries, branches, leaves, bulbs, seeds or pits). But feel free to call poison control if your child ingests something and you are concerned it might be poisonous. If you find you need help identifying your plant, take a clipping of it to a local nursery and they will be able to help you. I found this website very helpful in finding any information that I needed.

http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/resources/poison_control_center.html

Play & Learn 2 : Sunny Day Activities

admin — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 19:50:00 +0100

Most kids love to make pictures of the sun. With its simple shape, it is one of the first things that we learn to draw. Here are some variations on sun pictures and activities to amuse your child when the sun shines.

Granny Joan's Ginger Pork Recipe

admin — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 19:05:00 +0100

This recipe was given to me by Joan, my Scottish mother-in-law, before I left for Spain. It has become a firm favourite with my family ever since. My 2 children, aged 4 and 7 especially like it, hence the name!

From Baby Bottle to Sippy Cup

admin — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 17:05:00 +0100

By around one year, babies should start the transition from baby bottle to sippy cup. Persuading your baby that it's time to leave the beloved bottle behind is usually a hard sell. There are steps you can take to make it easier to wean your baby off the bottle and onto the sippy cup. Here are five steps to sippy cup bliss. If you are a stay-at-home-mom who has nursed exclusively without using the bottle, you might even just introduce the sippy cup first and skip this weaning process entirely.

Early Signs of Pregnancy

admin — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 15:49:00 +0100

The early signs of pregnancy can be tough to decipher, or to even distinguish from the approach of a period. It can be agonizing if you are wondering if you are pregnant and it's still in those days before a pregnancy test will register accurate results. As anyone trying to conceive knows, those days between ovulation and that first missed period can feel quite long as you wait to know. These are some of the common early signs of pregnancy.

Mom and Education - College Degrees for Moms

admin — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 15:26:00 +0100

Being a Mom doesn't mean that you can't go back to school. I got pregnant during my last semester of highschool. The ironic thing was that I stayed an extra year in highschool so that I could finally get the credits to get into the private school of my dreams. But that didn't stop me.

Real Morning Sickness Remedies

admin — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 15:04:00 +0100

If you are stricken by morning sickness, you will surely here the same tired (and ineffective) cures and remedies to cure your morning sickness. If you are sick of hearing, "Have you tried eating saltine crackers?" over and over and want some real mom advice, check out this list of real morning sickness remedies that work.

Relocation : Emigrating with kids

admin — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 10:47:00 +0100

When my children were 3 and 5½ we decided to relocate to Spain. Relocating was something we had wanted to do for years, but with the children approaching school age in the UK it was not a decision we could take lightly. Here are some of the things that helped to ease the transition for our kids.

Photo at left after relocation, and photo below is before relocation.

Healthy Meatloaf Recipe

admin — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 09:39:00 +0100

Meatloaf is a favourite in my family, and this is a recipe for a much healthier version. You can use extra-lean minced (ground) beef, but the healthiest way is to use minced turkey or chicken. Here in Spain I can´t get lean, low fat minced beef, so I use half beef mince and half chicken instead. Find out how to make a healthy meatloaf.

Helping Left-handed Children

admin — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 09:04:00 +0100

I come from a family with a lot of left handed members. My grandmother, father, sister, myself and now, inevitably, one of my sons. Thankfully we have moved on from my schooldays in the 1970s when the teachers tried to force me to use my right hand for wrting (I never succeeded). But it is still true that left-handed kids can face a few more difficulties than their right-handed counterparts.

Play & Learn : Rainy Day Fun

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:41:00 +0100

It can be hard to amuse your kids on a rainy day. The following activities can help keep them occupied for an hour or two, with the advantage that your child will learn whilst they play. Even better, these ideas won´t break the bank!

Kids in the Kitchen

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 09:48:00 +0100

Give your child a healthy interest in food by getting them involved in the kitchen. It can be fun, all those new colours, flavours and textures to explore!

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Curry Recipe

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 08:55:00 +0100

I love my slow cooker. For busy working moms these electric casserole-style cookers a a huge bonus. This Slow Cooker Vegetarian Cooker recipe makes it easy to prepare a homemade, healthy and vegetarian meal for the whole family to enjoy.

One Pot Pepper Hash Recipe

admin — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 09:47:00 +0100

We all know that we should eat more vegetables, but it can be difficult to persuade your family to "eat their greens" if we serve vegetables solely as an unappetizing side dish. This One Pot Pepper Hash recipe is full of colour and flavour, and is extremely versatile. Just use any vegetables you have to hand.

Getting your kids to help around the house

totanaliz — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 09:14:00 +0100

If you can get your kids to help around the house without grumbling, then you have got it made! As a busy mom, any help is greatly appreciated of course but there are many more important reasons why it is good for the kids to help with the housework, especially boys!

Tips for Encouraging Your Child's Imagination

admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:59:00 +0100

As a parent you might be surprised at all the ways an active imagination benefits your child. Right from an early age it helps a child in social interactions, in their mental wellbeing and in their schooling. Here are tips for encouraging your child's imagination.

Tips for Shopping with Kids

admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:49:00 +0100

Find out how to avoid tantrums (hopefully!) when shopping with kids. If what they have in prospect is an hour or more of walking slowly, standing by your side, staying quiet, being ignored because you're busy, not touching things despite all they see you not only touching but *keeping* i.e putting in your cart - expect trouble.

How to Raise Kids Who Read

admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:23:00 +0100

Make books live for your child. The story shouldn't stay on the page but should make its way into the reader's head and take on a life of its own as it mixes with the reader's thoughts. Good books show us another world.

Lively Lunchboxes

admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:05:00 +0100

It can be hard to find new ideas for healthy snacks for your kids. "An apple a day" is great in principle, but in practice it can get a little boring. If your child´s lunchbox is regularly coming home from school full of half eaten food, think about it - are your kids trying to tell you something?

Handling Public Temper Tantrums

admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 01:24:00 +0100

Temper tantrums are the biggest test of a parent’s patience. A temper tantrum is an uncontrolled outburst of emotion. The most common ages that exhibit this behaviour are between two and four. They may include yelling, physically doing things, or both. They are different for every child. Common things that happen with them are crying and hitting.

Disciplining your Toddler

admin — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 23:22:00 +0100

Learning how to discipline a toddler can be a hard job. I think that you could learn about it all your life and still not know everything about it. Sometimes I think we all wish that a handbook would fall from the sky to tell us how to do it all. Since that won’t happen anytime soon, here are some things to help you along.

Your Daughter's Self Esteem

Taylor_Blue — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 22:40:00 +0100

My daughter has always been one of those girls who never worried about what others think of her. But that was until she started middle school. Now she has a new set of challenges to deal with. The new pressures she has to think about are the issues of her sexuality (she sees kids kissing in the halls and wonders when she’ll get her turn), her body image (She wants to shave her legs and wear a bra), and society’s pressures (she feels like everyone wants her to act her age). And the biggest issue would be self-esteem.

Toddlers and Eating

admin — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 21:34:00 +0100

Toddlers never seem to make meal time easy. Here are some facts about their eating that may help you keep your sanity during this intense time.

Finger Food Recipe - Toddler Tri-Color Pasta Salad

admin — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 14:28:00 +0100

This recipe is fast to throw together, easy to make, and toddlers and babies who aremore advanced with finger foods just love it. The use of tri-color pasta isn't necessary, but it makes it more colorful and fun. Better yet, this recipe only has three ingredients. The addition of grated parmesan cheese not only adds flavor, but also helps make the pasta easier for little fingers to grip.

Here is the Toddler Tri-Color? Pasta Recipe:

Breastfeeding and Weaning

admin — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 02:58:00 +0100

Remember how long you breastfeed and when you wean is up to you. What are your feelings about breastfeeding? Do you still like it? Do you think it’s becoming stressful and inconvenient for you and you want to start weaning? Is your toddler losing interest? Examine all the pros and cons of weaning your baby off breastfeeding before deciding what is best for you and your child.

How to Stop Thumb Sucking

admin — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 23:13:00 +0100

My son no longer sucks his thumb! My four year old son stopped sucking his thumb last summer (at 3 1/2 yrs) with the help of a product called the ThumbGuard. We have three sons and my youngest was the only one who sucked his thumb and I didn't know what to do.

Benefits of Homemade Baby Food

admin — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 19:33:00 +0100

Homemade baby food provides many benefits for both babies and parents. It's a healthier and fresher option for babies, and you can introduce foods that go beyond the typical banana, peas and carrots fare. There could even be some benefits to making your own baby food that you didn't realize.

Here are the top benefits to homemade baby food.

Work From Home Mom Opportunities

admin — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 23:22:00 +0100

Many women seek a work from home mom situation so that they can spend time with the children while pursuing a career. Even in this modern society and the ease of telecommuting, many moms still can't find a decent-paying work at home opportunity, and those who do face many obstacles when balancing child rearing and careering.

About the Mom Wiki at Type-A Mom

admin — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 10:15:00 +0100

Type-A Mom is a site designed to be created and maintained by the real know-it-alls in parenting, the moms. This is a community built just for you. You can get your own email, blog, image galleries to share, and you can save all those million tasks you have been just meaning to get to eventually.