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From the category archives:
Babies
There are a lot of things to think about when there’s a baby on the way. You’ve got to come up with the perfect name for your little bundle of joy. You have to line up childcare when it’s time to go back to work, or make plans to stay home with the baby. There are clothes, diapers and supplies to buy. And there’s a nursery to decorate.
Decorating the nursery is a favorite part of new baby preparations for many parents. Until it’s done, you just don’t feel like you’re ready to welcome your child into the world. So many moms- and dads-to-be go all out, buying expensive designer cribs, bedding and décor. But if you’re on a tight budget, that’s money that could be better spent on more practical things.
That doesn’t mean that you can’t decorate your baby’s room in style, though. It just means you’ll need to go about it a little differently.
Here are some frugal tips for decorating your baby nursery:
* If there’s a certain motif you want to use in the nursery, create a baby registry and make sure that your shower organizer lets invitees know where you’re registered. That way guests will be likely to purchase the items you’ve selected in that motif. But keep in mind that if you choose a lot of expensive items, you might not get them, because your guests may be on a budget too.
* Don’t get your heart set on doing everything in a certain motif. If you don’t get all of the things you want at your shower, you might have to go with something else. If you get some of the items you wanted, however, perhaps you can buy the rest in a color that co-ordinates with them.
* Make some of the items for the nursery yourself. You could buy some fabric featuring the characters you want to feature in the nursery and make all sorts of things out of it. Curtains and blankets are easy if you have a sewing machine. You could also make decoupage wall hangings by cutting the characters out of the fabric and using Mod Podge to adhere them to a piece of wood, then top with another coat of it. And framed pages from children’s books or calendars also make lovely wall art.
* Visit consignment shops, flea markets and yard sales. You can often find great deals on gently used nursery items at these places.
* Go to outlet stores, or shop from the outlet section of your favorite online baby store. There are spectacular deals on new items to be found here. Some might have minor flaws, but in many cases they’ve simply been discontinued by the manufacturer.
Decorating your nursery on the cheap doesn’t mean it won’t be beautiful. With a little creativity, you can make it look just as wonderful as it would if you had spared no expense. And best of all, you’ll have more money to spend on diapers, formula, and those adorable baby clothes!
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For such tiny people, babies can be very, very expensive. You’ve got to feed them, diaper them and clothe them. They need bath supplies and laundry detergents that are suitable for sensitive baby skin. They need a crib and a car seat, and playpens and strollers are must-haves for many parents. And some parents are intent on giving them the best of everything, which adds up to even more money spent.
Even for the most eager mom-to-be, the thought of all these expenses can be rather intimidating. But never fear. There are plenty of tricks that can save new moms money. Here are a few.
* Solicit hand-me-downs. Babies don’t stay in those tiny clothes for long, so by the time they outgrow them, they’re rarely worn out. If you have a friend or family member who has recently had a baby, ask if she has any clothes that you could take off her hands. And don’t stop with clothes. Those with older children might have cribs, strollers and other items that they’re no longer using and would love to get out of the way.
* Breastfeed. Not only is breastfeeding less expensive than buying formula, bottles and nipples, it’s also better for your baby. And for those middle-of-the-night feedings, it’s quicker and more convenient than warming up a bottle. You’ll need to take care to eat well so that the baby gets all of the nutrients he needs, but that’s something that’s important to do anyway.
* Keep your diaper costs as low as possible. Cloth diapers can save you a ton of money if you don’t mind washing them, and they’re better for the environment than disposables. If you can’t bring yourself to use cloth diapers, try generic disposables. They’re often just as good as the name brands, and they cost much less.
* Shop at second-hand stores. You can find great deals on gently used baby items at many such stores. Some will also accept trade-ins, so you can bring in items that your baby can no longer use and get credit toward things you need.
* Consider getting a baby sling to carry your little bundle of joy in. They make great substitutes for strollers, carriers, swings and bouncy seats, and you can get them cheaper than any of these. An added bonus: they keep baby feeling snug and secure, so there’s less crying and more bonding.
* Use soft baby washcloths and baby wash instead of disposable wipes. You can soak the cloths in a solution of baby wash and water, wring out the excess, and put them in a Ziploc bag to use when you’re out. Just keep another bag to put the dirty cloths in, wash them when you get home, and reuse.
There are lots of expenses associated with a new addition to the family. But if you’re diligent about finding good deals, you could save hundreds of dollars on baby needs by the time your little one is a toddler. So don’t be afraid to shop around, buy second-hand and make use of hand-me-downs!
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Creating a Memorable First Halloween for Baby
Pictures, albums and home video may be the only way children ever know they even participated in trick or treating as a baby. Who are we kidding? We all know the fun of baby’s first Halloween or two is more for parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings. Here are some suggestions for saving money on baby’s first trick or treat experience as well as safety tips to make the night as fun as it can be.
Be Frugal with Baby’s First Halloween Costume
The first Halloween costume should be special, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank? Before you go crazy spending out of your budget for a Halloween outfit for baby, try networking with other parents. Many parents save their own children’s first costumes. They may be open to swapping costumes with you or willing to sell their little one’s old costume at a minimal cost. If this isn’t an option for you and you find you need to purchase your baby’s costume, there are lots of children’s thrift stores and boutiques that carry precious Halloween outfits in the month of October. Another option for making sure baby’s first costume is cute and inexpensive outfit is to check eBay.
Safety Tips to Keep Baby’s Safe and Sound
• Pass On Inhibiting Costume Items
Babies do not like to wear masks and most will fight and cry in discomfort if you put them in costumes that restrict their movements.
• Avoid Scary Masks and Costumes
Don’t be surprised if older babies are frightened by other people’s masks and costumes as well. This is not a time to instill fear into your baby. Sometimes adults and older children find it funny to show babies “the ropes” without realizing they can inadvertently scare infants.
• Keep Weather Conditions in Mind
When choosing your costume, keep in mind what your weather will most likely be that time of year. In the northern part of the U.S., it is not unusual for children to wear coats over their costumes. The more south you go, you may have children overdressed in 80 degree weather. That adorable fur bear or lion outfit may not be the most comfortable outfit for baby if you live in an area that’s still a bit warm on Halloween. Don’t over or undress baby.
• Give Family & Friends a Call Ahead Before Visiting
You have special people in your life that you’ll want to share baby’s first Halloween with. A phone call ahead to these people to be sure they are going to be home will help ensure that pictures (or videos) of baby with this special someone can be taken. Try and make your plans up to a week ahead. You don’t want to be disappointed later when trying to scrapbook your child’s first trick or treat experience and someone is missing.
Celebrate Baby’s First Halloween Again and Again
Just like every other first for your little one, you’ll want to keep record of his or her first Halloween with pictures, video and other keepsake items. One way you can do this is by creating a scrapbook that will preserve these items for years to come. Get creative in how you layout your album. Don’t be afraid to take pictures with props that symbolize the holiday and the season. Hay bails and pumpkins are just a few ideas; you can also check with your local craft store for other embellishments such as stamps, stencils and more.
Memories are something we all have. With some extra care and planning, Halloween and your baby’s first trick or treat experience can be most memorable for everyone involved. Who knows, that adorable first Halloween costume might find its way into the senior year book later.
No matter what costume you choose or how you remember the day, keep the tips and suggestions above in mind for a safe, happy and fun Halloween.
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Baby Samples
Get baby samples, baby coupons, baby magazines, diaper coupons, formula samples, more.
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The skin on your baby is very fragile, delicate and thin. This means the skin is very sensitive and can react easily to weather temperatures and also irritants. Irritants can come from a variety of substances but mainly through the chemicals contained in the products you use on baby. Avoiding these chemicals can be as easy as purchasing organic products but here are 10 other alternatives for you to try.
1. Unbleached disposable nappies.
The Choice website states: As far as dioxins are concerned, they’re a family of organochlorins that includes one of the most toxic chemicals yet made. In the past, dioxin traces were found in chlorine-bleached white paper and pulp products, including disposable nappies. However, nowadays nappies are usually oxygen-bleached (using hydrogen peroxide), which forms no dioxin.
However do we know what consequences hydrogen peroxide will bring? There are totally unbleached disposable nappies on the market that ensures your baby does not come into contact with any bleach.
2. Never use talc on baby.
Why? Contamination of wounds or body cavities with talc is liable to cause granulomas. Inhalation of talc can cause respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to talc may produce pneumocomosis. Talc is liable to be heavily contaminated with bacteria including Clostridium tetani, CL welchii and Bacillus anthracis, hence it must be sterilized. Mardindale 31 P1096, 1745, 1407 Organic talcs are usually made with corn flour, arrowroot and white clay and are wonderfully safe and very effective for keeping baby’s skin dry.
3. Massage oils after bathing.
Avoid mineral based oils as they contribute to the drying of the skin when absorbed. Instead use natural and organic oils that continue to soothe and moisturize baby’s skin. Try products that contain sweet almond oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil and chamomile, rose, lavender and mandarin essential oils. But remember to always do a test patch first and watch for any redness or irritation. Do not use if this occurs! You only need the tiniest amount of oil to massage into your baby’s skin, less than a teaspoon.
4. Natural bottom wipes.
Homemade bottom wipes can be made easily. Cut a roll of strong paper towel (Viva are great) in half. Take out the cardboard inner roll. Mix two cups of water with ½ cup sweet almond oil and ½ cup of organic baby wash. Place one half of the roll into a container and pour over ½ of the solution. Store in container. Or for just a wiping solution try a cup of cool chamomile tea and a teaspoon of honey mixed well. Honey is a natural antiseptic so it is great for keeping baby’s bottom germ free and will help treat existing nappy rash.
5. Soap free washing and bathing.
Newborns can be gently and easily wiped down with rose hydrosol. This is distilled water that contains healing and soothing aromatic rose extracts suitable for the most sensitive of skin types and is very economical as you only use a small amount. Older babies should be washed with organic baby washes as adult products tend to have harsher ingredients that can irritate baby’s skin. Use baby washes sparingly.
6. Washing baby’s clothes.
Always wash baby’s clothes before using and wash in pure soap flakes or a gentle skin sensitive washing solution. Do not add water softeners or conditioners as these can cause skin irritation. Dissolve the flakes in a little warm water before adding to the washing cycle. Baby’s clothes and sheets etc do not need to be disinfected, just dry in the sun.
7. Using organic baby lotion.
Organic baby lotions can be used as an alternative to massage oils and help keep baby’s skin from drying out.. However baby’s skin is sensitive so monitor the results carefully and discontinue use if any sign of redness or irritation occurs.
8. Sanitizing cloth nappies.
Washing cloth nappies at a temperature of 65 °C or hotter and then drying them in direct sunlight should eliminate any harmful germs as the ultraviolet light has a sterilizing effect and a natural bleaching ability. Natural Nappy Soak: Half fill a nappy bucket, then add a quarter of a cup of bicarbonate of soda and swish to dissolve, add 3 drops of lavender essential oil and 3 drops of tea tree essential oil. Soak nappies in this overnight then wash as per normal. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the final rinse for softer nappies. Always make sure the nappy bucket lid is firmly in place, and always out of reach of children.
9. Umbilical stump tips.
The umbilical stump must be kept clean and dry until it falls off naturally. Fold baby’s nappy below the stump so it’s exposed to the air and not to urine. Avoid bathing your baby in a bath tub until the stump falls off. Try using the hydrosol wash mentioned above. Studies have shown that leaving the stump to dry out naturally is the quickest method. Do not apply any drying agents as they can cause irritations.
10. Cradle cap care.
Cradle cap is the result of overactive glands in your baby’s scalp and is not dangerous. It looks like a crusty patch of skin. This drying has been attributed to the hormones the mother passes to her child at birth and can continue for several months. The gentlest and safest way to cure cradle cap is to wipe the area with sweet almond oil, leave it on for about five-ten minutes then wash baby’s scalp with an organic baby wash or shampoo. Do not leave the oil on the scalp as this will cause further dryness as the glands become ‘confused. Organic baby products that are totally safe to use on your baby are readily available online and through chemists. There really is no excuse to be using chemicals on your baby anymore!
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Our children are our most valuable possessions. If only it was possible to be able to watch over them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, then you would. This is most especially true when it comes to babies since they are dependent on their parents with everything that they do.
Unfortunately, parents are only humans and as such, you also get tired and will need rest from time to time. And what better way to rest than from the comforts of your room. This is where baby monitors come in handy. With these devices, you will still be able to monitor your baby even if he or she is in another room.
What Are Baby Monitors?
Basically, a baby monitor, also known as a baby alarm, is a device that can be used to monitor your children or babies even if they are located in a separate room than yours. It is a simplex transmitter and receiver system that can be used to remotely listen for different noises made by your kids and babies.
A transmitter device with a microphone is placed in the room of your baby (usually near the baby). Another device with a receiver and with speakers can be carried by you, the parents, or the baby sitter, or anyone who is taking care of the babies. With baby monitors, you can keep track of your baby’s even if you are doing something else in the proximity of your house.
Types of Baby Monitors
Baby monitors have evolved through the years. From the simple transmitter and receiver device, different baby monitors have been developed. Currently, there are two types of baby monitors: video baby monitors and audio baby monitors.
Video baby monitors, as the name implies, use video footages for overseeing events in the room where the baby is located. It incorporates the technology used by webcams in computers. Instead of only using the simple transmitter with microphone, a camera is installed with it. The receiver, instead of just having speakers, already has LCD screens installed along with them.
Video baby monitors have also taken advantage of the current technology of the Internet. With the video baby monitor installed in the room, parents can access the cameras and view the conditions of their babies even when they are at the office. All they need is a computer with Internet access and voila! Instant video feed direct from the baby’s room.
The other type of baby monitor is the audio baby monitor. This is the descendant of the basic uni-directional system used by basic and usually old monitors. These new types of baby monitors however have been integrated with new technology. Instead of just being able to hear your baby, you can now actually talk back to him or her.
There are even some devices that will let you send commands to the baby’s device to play different music to hush him or her back to sleep.
Both types of baby monitors, audio and video, can either be wired or wireless. The wireless devices may, in some cases, be more advantageous than the wired devices since you will be able to go anywhere anytime for as long as both devices are within range.
The set back of this setup though is that wireless connections seem to be more affected with different interferences than the wired devices.
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The sound of a baby crying is definitely one of the most precious things in life that some parents take for granted. The case is different though with a deaf mother or father. Not being able to hear your little one is upsetting enough. What makes matters worst is the fact that a lack of ability to perceive sound can sometimes put your infant’s safety at risk. Luckily, technology has made it possible for manufacturers to create baby monitors for deaf people.
A regular baby monitor alerts parents each time their little bundles of joy need attention. The device usually functions by means of transmitting sound from the baby’s room to a portable receiver that can be conveniently placed inside a pocket or strapped around the waist.
People with excellent hearing can rest assured that their infants’ cries will be heard, even if they’re in another part of the house. These helpful gadgets serve as an extension of a person’s hearing or visual range. Parents who are hard of hearing or deaf also share the same opinion about baby monitors. Even though they put up with a lot of difficulties in caring for their babies, the ounce of reassurance they get from using such devices is more than welcome.
Special Features
Hearing-impaired individuals are definitely faced with two times the challenge of caring for a baby. Aside from making sure that they can provide for their infants’ needs, they also have to deal with the fact that they cannot perceive sounds – not even the cries of their own little ones.
The majority of baby monitors designed for people who have hearing impairments are equipped with a vibrating alarm and/or a flashing light system. These added features alert the deaf parent every time the baby is in need of attention.
A number of products on the market also offer other means of alerting deaf parents to the cries of their infants. One particular product consists of receivers that come in two parts: a main clock and a tiny sound sensor. The main clock functions as the sound-alarm system and is equipped with a vibrating rod attachment that should be positioned under the parents’ mattress. Each time the baby wails, the alarm system triggers the rod to forewarn and awaken the parents.
Some baby monitors even come with LCD screens that allow you to literally watch over your baby. This is especially valuable to deaf parents since what they lack in hearing, they can make up for in visual observation.
Factors To Consider Before Purchasing a Baby Monitor
Buying the most expensive baby monitor on the shelf is not necessarily the best idea that any parent could muster. You have to understand what you really need and determine how to compensate for the capability that you lack without sacrificing anything. Although parting with your hard-earned cash in order to buy a bunch of gadgets can be difficult, having that much-desired peace of mind is still more important than any money in the world.
Portability is also an issue when it comes to shopping for the best baby monitor in town. A receiver that is designed to sit on top of your living room table may not efficiently serve its purpose especially if you’re bound to move around much or even go out of the house.
Despite the fact that baby monitors for deaf people offer a great deal of assistance, the cost-friendly and simple act of keeping an eye on your baby is still your best option. In addition to that, no other gadgets in the world can ever replace the actual presence of a parent.
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