SaintJohnMoms

Playgroups Uptown

2008-11-27T09:46:00.001-08:00

I'm a full time working Mom and my children are taken care of by my mother during the day. Does anyone know of any playgroups in the uptown Saint John area?

-Anonymous

Side C Section

2008-11-14T07:29:00.003-08:00

I recently heard someone mention a c-section in the side abdomen. I would like to know more about this if anyone has any information. Thanks!

J.M.

Whats YOUR Christmas Wish List?

2008-11-14T07:29:00.001-08:00

What are you hoping to get for Christmas as a gift?

Toddler Bed Time

2008-09-19T17:02:00.001-07:00

Anyone have any advice on how to get your little one to sleep when they start standing in their crib? I used to lay him down and he would go to sleep, now he stands and shakes the rails, How to stop this?

-Ashley

Stay Fit

2008-07-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

FredMoms Stay Fit!

Moms are busy people, and I want to emphasize that these exercises do not need to be done all at once, obviously when a baby is crying at you, or supper is sizzling, you have to go. Exercise is important for so many reasons though, so it's important to make time. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in Canada.

Osteoporosis in women is also an epidemic, and if you're like most you probably don't get enough calcium, but this isn't the only way to build strong bones. When you do strength training, your muscles grow and so does your bone density as a supportive response. A recent study concluded that women who jumped as little as 10 times per day, 3 days a week saw increased bone density in the hip and lower spine.

Another area you should keep strong is your core abdominal muscles. The name core says it all, you use these muscles for simple tasks like sitting up and walking, and harder ones like lifting toddlers, or groceries. If your abs aren't strong your back takes up the slack, and may leave you with lower back pain. So it's worth it to keep 'em in shape. A move called the plank works your back, shoulders, and most importantly all of your deep abdominal stabilizing muscles.

Don't let your lower back sag to the floor, use your abs to keep it in a straight line. You can intensify this move by placing paper under your toes, which forces you to work your muscles more as you stabilize to hold the position. For the basic move, lie face-down, resting on your forearms, with palms flat on the floor. Push up, rising onto your toes and elbows. Keeping your back flat, hold for 20 to 60 seconds. Lower and repeat 3-5 times a day 3-5 times a week.

You can also work your abs and inner thighs, by doing the reverse crunch. Lie on your back with a big ball between your feet, lift your head and shoulders into the crunch position and lift your legs up and down while squeezing the ball to work your inner thighs. Leave your head and shoulders up, while you lift and lower your legs as many times as you can. Do 3 sets, resting 30 to 45 seconds between each. If you don't have a ball, you can squeeze your feet together anyway, for a similar effect.

Push-ups work wonders for a woman's body (including her cleavage), and improves your over all strength. If you aren't strong enough, do girl push-ups. As long as you have the right form, they will be effective, and once you get stronger, you can up get off your knees. To do proper "girl" push-ups, get onto all fours, make a straight line from your knees to your head, hands slightly wider than shoulder width apart, fingers pointing forward. Do 3 sets of as many reps as you can. Rest 30 to 45 seconds between sets.

If you want to lose weight, cardio plays a key role. Some women wonder why when they began dieting they immediately lost weight, then, the pounds stopped dropping. If you are not burning more calories than you consume in a day then your body simply won't burn stored fat. If you can't get out for a run, and don't have a treadmill, elliptical, etc., rope skipping is an excellent cardiovascular exercise and requires little space. Jumping is great for bone density, as previously discussed, and easier on your joints than running or jogging. You can do this 3-5 times a week, in as little as 12 minutes, or as much as an hour, depending on your goals and intensity level. Just 10 minutes of rope skipping is equivalent to a one-mile run. 10 Minutes ladies!! Who doesn't have 10 minutes?

If you're going to start jumping rope you may need to get one, because a child's rope probably won't do. When choosing a rope, hold the rope and stand with your feet on the middle. If the length is correct, the handles should just reach your armpits. Handles should be thick and comfortable. Look for a cushioned surface to jump on like a carpet or a rubber mat to go easy on your joints. Choose cushioned athletic footwear just as you would for walking or running.

If you do not yet have a jump rope and are feeling motivated right now, there are other things you can do in the meantime.
With your feet together, jump from side to side over an imaginary line.

Or from the lunge position (one foot forward, knees bent, and one foot back), jump to switch feet. This works your butt, and hips too!

You can also try stepping up and down on a bench, curb or lowest stair of a staircase, alternating legs. If you think you can without hurting yourself, you can also jump into the step and back off with your feet together.

Remember jumping jacks? They also work great for a cardio workout. Standing with your feet together, arms at your sides, jump so you land with your feet hip-width apart as you raise your arms overhead. Jump back to starting position.

Print this sheet off and track your progress, seeing how well you are doing will help you stay motivated. The first column is just a goal, the subsequent columns are for what you actually do. Be sure to place the dates in the first row (horizontal), it will help you get in gear when you realize you haven't done anything for a couple days. Weigh yourself regularly, studies show that women who weigh themselves, stick with it longer because they are seeing results. You do not have to do every single thing, every single day, just make sure you wait no longer than 3 days between doing each exercise. Just remember the harder you work, the less time you need.

Spanking VS Timeouts

2008-07-07T04:52:00.000-07:00

When your child is misbehaving, do you spank or use timeouts? Do you think it depends on the situation?

2008-05-19T15:48:00.001-07:00

To Do for Saint John Moms

If you want to add something to this calendar, post it below (bottom of page)

If you are looking to the FRC website, See Community> FRC

Should Mom Get Push Presents?

2008-05-16T07:53:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day is one thing. But the latest trend in gift-giving for moms are so-called push presents. Post-delivery room, dads are being nudged to give jewelry and other expensive gifts that reward wives for doing the work of giving birth. What do you think of this trend? Should moms get push presents or is this just a form of materialism taken too far?

Mom Cars

2008-05-16T07:26:00.003-07:00

Wondering what moms w 3 carseats drive?? We have been looking at new SUVs as we will have 3 carseats, but find it hard to find something with everythign that I need (well want) and I prefer not to have a minivan??? any suggestions??

-Anonymous

2008-05-16T07:26:00.001-07:00

A new bill legislating midwifery in New Brunswick is having its 1st reading (of 3) today in Fredericton. I'm part of a group called Birth Matters who have been advocating this legislation and have actively participated in the working group to recommend how midwifery will be practiced in NB. I'm looking for women interested in helping me to educate women in the SJ area about midwifery including screening the movie "The Business of Being Born".
Please respond to this post if interested.

2008-05-16T07:23:00.003-07:00

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Hitting and Biting with a Smile

2008-05-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

How to handle this behaviour
By: Teresa Pitman

Sixteen-month-old Rowan Harrison runs up and smacks his four-year-old sister, Peyton, with a big smile on his face. “When she yells ‘stop’ or screams at him, he smiles even more and whacks her again,” says mom Adriana Harrison.

Melissa Wilkinson’s two-year-old son, Nathaniel, recently went through a similar stage. “He bit me so hard that I had to put ice on it,” she says. “There was no apparent reason — he wasn’t upset or frustrated.”

Experimenting and exploration

It’s fairly easy to understand when toddlers bite or hit out of frustration or anger. But what’s up with these little ones who wallop other kids while smiling or laughing? Are they taking some kind of evil pleasure in the suffering of others?

Not at all, says Susan Martin, a member of Toronto’s Centennial College Early Childhood Education faculty: “Toddlers are doing a massive amount of experimenting as they learn about the world.” They’re also operating at a very sensory, physical level, so it’s intriguing to them when the person they hit yells or cries or has some other strong reaction, she explains.

Biting can also happen as a result of this physical exploration. “The child sees a nice, fleshy arm and it just looks like something good to chomp on,” Martin says.

How to handle it

Toddlers haven’t learned yet that others feel pain as they do, she adds.

“Of course, it’s important to teach them that hitting and biting are wrong,” she explains, and offers these approaches:

• Deal with the situation right away. Toddlers have short memories, so there’s little point in talking about it later.

• Comfort the child who was bitten or hit: “It hurt when you got hit” or “Those teeth hurt.”

• Then talk to the toddler who did the hitting or biting, beginning with a no, but then using positive language: “No, we use teeth for eating food” or “No, we use the broom to sweep the floor.” (Martin says that when you say, “Don’t bite” or “No hitting,” the toddler’s limited understanding of grammar may mean that he only understands bite and hit and doesn’t realize you’re telling him not to do it.

• Avoid saying “Use your words.” Since the hit or bite isn’t the result of frustration or anger, it’s probably not possible for them to explain what they’re feeling.

• Plan to supervise very closely. After a child has tried biting or hitting once, it’s common to see the behaviour repeated.

Older toddlers

Older toddlers with larger vocabularies and greater experience may be more ready to learn to understand how their actions affect others. Wilkinson says that Nathaniel had been bitten a few times by another child at daycare. “When he bit me, I made a really big deal about how much it hurt and how biting is not acceptable,” she adds. “He was able to make the connection between that and him getting bitten at daycare, and that he doesn’t like it and Mommy doesn’t either. It hasn’t happened since.”

Harrison says that when Rowan goes after Peyton, she usually picks him up and cuddles him on her lap. “That’s to protect both of them, really,” she says, “because Peyton is likely to give him a whack if he keeps it up! I mention that it hurts and then try to get him distracted with some other activity.”

“Parents are sometimes horrified when their toddler does this,” adds Martin. “Especially if they are happily biting others — it seems so primitive and animalistic. But an overly emotional reaction can be counter-productive. If you can stay calm, and yet be clear with your toddler, you’ll help him learn what he needs to get past this stage.”

2008-05-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

To Do for Saint John Moms

If you want to add something to this calendar, post it below (bottom of page)

2008-04-22T11:43:00.001-07:00

Community Notice

"I am a PhD psychology student at UNB and I am conducting research on mothers who have experienced intimate partner abuse while caring for young children. The abuse may be in any form (physical, emotional, psychological, etc.). The aim of this research is to make policy recommendations to various agencies in New Brunswick to better serve mothers who are experiencing abuse. If you would like more information or would like to participate in my study, which would entail a one hour interview, please contact Debbi O'Brien at 461-9003 or debbi.obrien@unb.ca. Your confidentiality and anonymity are assured."

Discussions

"My baby is 3 months old, and still gets up between 3 and 4 times per night. I really want to get a good nights sleep, even half the times waking up would be helpful. I feel like I am just so tired by morning that I didnt even sleep at all. Does anyone have any good tips on how I can get her to sleep more at night? -Anonymous" Reply to this post

Tools For Moms

Every Mom needs to get out once in a while but it can be hard if you don't have a reliable baby sitter, or close family who can give you a break. SaintJohnMoms.com has a section for On-Call Babysitter Listings. If you or someone you know enjoys child care, and is willing to be listed write to admin@fredMoms.com

Blogs

Become a blogger! Write as often or as little as you like about being a stay at home mom, a working mother juggling the family life, or your quest to life a greener life. What ever your lifestyle, family size, or main goal, we would love to read about it. Email blogs@fredmoms.com to be a SaintJohnMoms.com blogger! All you have to do is write.

Are women really not what they used to be?

2008-04-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

The Proper Care and Feeding of Marriage Written by Dr. Laura Schlessinger, is one that touches on a rarely explored avenue of why many marriages or relationships fail. She has been on television many times, you may recall her as the one who says that many women are simply bad wives or girlfriends.

She has previously said that women should stay home, take care of things, and love their husbands, and that men should appreciate their wives.

She writes that women do way too much nagging at their men. And that men don't spend enough time making women feel like a lady and women don't try and make their men feel like a man.

Here is an excerpt from her book:

"I believe that men yearn for their spiritual and psychological counterbalance to humanize and beautify life. I don't think it matters much to a man if his woman chooses to be an accountant or physician—as long as she is "his woman" and "a woman" to him. That understanding is lost to too many women today. Sadly it is all too typical for women to want to be seen by their men as the high-powered position they have at work, instead of as a woman, with those special attributes that are natural to her and yearned for by her man.

But the reality is that women today do not think of themselves in the context of helping "their man." Women today have been brainwashed into thinking that efforts in that direction are in the category of oppression, subservience, and catering to frail male egos. It is sad that this is the prevalent point of view, because interdependence is what ultimately feeds both the man and the woman what they truly need to be happy."

What do you think about her opinions? Do YOU think that women are on a power trip with their careers as she seems to frequently suggest? And that they are too preoccupied with this to "properly care for their husbands and relationships with them"? Do you think this 'powerful woman era' is responsible for the mean age of a mother in Canada being in the 30s?

Watch Her

Related:
Vaginal Birth Won't Spoil Your Sex Life
Moody Men
Nagging, Is That All YOU Do?
8 Foods To Get You In The Mood
on SEX!
How Does Your Relationship Work?

Discussion- Baby- Sleep- Night

2008-04-13T18:42:00.001-07:00

2008-04-13T17:00:00.001-07:00

Discussion Board: Soothing Colic
My daughter is 2 weeks old and is a great calm baby in the most part, but every night around 10pm she gets really colicky. How can I calm her and soothe her? Reply to this post
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New Question on the Discussion Board- Child Birth/ Prenatal Classes
Would anyone be able to tell me who to contact to sign up for childbirth/prenatal classes in Saint John? Thanks! -Anonymous Reply to this post here! ................................................................................................................

Post Free Classifieds
You can post your listings here, child care ads, looking for ads, or selling an item ads, you do not need an account to post on SaintJohnMoms.com Click the link above to post your ad, and check back daily for the newest ads that are always posted on the left side of this site!
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Saint John Moms Bloggers Wanted!
Do you think you would enjoy writing about your experiences as a mother in Saint John? Blog about your children, your relationships, or being a working mother. You can blog anonymously under an Alias (ex: Happy Mom). If you want to be a blogger email admin@fredmoms.com and I will set it up for you with an email address you provide. All you have to do is write!
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All Through The Night
Myths and facts about babies and sleep – psst…you’re not alone! At the end of the day (or night), sometimes you just need to adjust your attitude. “My wife and I kept getting up angry,” says Richard Whate, a Toronto dad. “Finally, we accepted that we weren’t going to sleep all night and started taking turns.”
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When You're Ready for Sex but He Isn't
Men and post-baby sex: By Kathy Kelleher-The cliche among the new-parent set is that men always want sex and women never do. But believe it or not, some fathers are not exactly chomping at the bit after the baby arrives.
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Family Friendly Restaurants
Read what other moms in the area have to say about local restaurants. Their atmosphere, food, staff, and over all feel towards being family friendly.
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Hot Topic Discussion:
When paternity is uncertain do you believe the mother should come clean or that some things are better left unsaid. Discuss it.
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Articles About Preconception

2008-04-13T16:59:00.002-07:00

Myths about Conception Busted
Wondering about Vaginal Birth After Cesarean? (VBAC)
Having Trouble conceiving? There is help for you.
Geting your body ready for a baby!
What is Ovulation and How can you track it?
You may have more of an effect on the sex of your baby than you think
Which Baby Bottle Will you Choose?
Want Multiples?

2008-04-13T16:59:00.001-07:00

There is currently a group in the Fredericton area offering support for couples experiencing trouble conceiving.

The Fredericton Infertility Awareness Support Group can provide information, and support.

The group meets on the third Saturday of each month (except during July and August annually) at 1pm in MacLaggan Building on the Fredericton campus of UNB (33 Dineen Drive), room 212. The meetings not only offer the much needed support and answers to specific questions but also feature guest speakers on infertility issues.

For more information you can contact Pam Burton at 451-6846 or e-mail her at pburton@unb.ca

2008-04-13T16:58:00.003-07:00

For some couples conception can be hard, and you may have to turn to other options.

Artificial Insemination or AI is a process in which the sperm is uterus or cervix using artificial means. Success rates for artificial insemination vary based on the type of fertility problem being treated and the age of the patient.

In Vitro Fertilization is a procedure that involves fertilizing the woman's egg outside of her body. The process involves hormonally controlling the ovulatory process, removing eggs from the woman's ovaries and letting sperm fertilize them in a fluid medium. The fertilized egg (zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intent to establish a successful pregnancy.
Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is another option similar to In Vitro Fertilization. In this case the sperm is inserted into the egg using a hollow needle, and the fertilized egg is then placed in the woman's uterus.

The nearest fertility clinic, Conceptia is located in Moncton.

2008-04-13T16:58:00.001-07:00

Hoping for a boy? Maybe you want that little princess. What ever wishes you have for your offspring, you may be able to influence it more than you think.

There are significant differences in male and female sperm that help influence who makes it to that egg.

Female sperm for example are actually more able to survive the acidic environment of the vagina, and will live up to 7 days inside you.

Male sperm on the other hand don't survive very long but are faster swimmers and generally make it to the egg first as long as you are ovulating.

So in other words, if you are hoping for a boy try and have intercourse on, or as near to ovulation as possible. If you are hoping for a little girl try a couple days before ovulation is set to occur.

Click here to calculate your most fertile dates.

2008-04-13T16:57:00.000-07:00

Eating Yams will increase your odds

There's no scientific proof that yams will help you get pregnant. Varro Tyler, professor emeritus of pharmacognosy (the study of drugs from natural sources) at Purdue University, and the author of The Honest Herbal thinks that claims of yams contributing to conception are all scams. "I call them the yam scams. The only possible positive outcome could be due to the placebo effect," he says. And as far as any negative or harmful effects are concerned, there seems to be only one: "The most deleterious effect is to the pocketbook."

It doesn't matter what type of underwear HE wears

Boxers are less constricting than briefs, and that's good news for testicles (those sperm-producing machines in every man's pants). For optimum functioning, testicles should stay a couple of degrees below normal body temperature. Boxers allow them to hang loose, away from the body — and keep their cool. For the same reason, men who are trying to make a baby should also avoid hot tubs, saunas, and tight jeans or pants.

Man on top is best

There's no evidence that any particular sexual position is more likely to lead to conception. You may have heard that positions that deposit the sperm closest to the cervix — such as the missionary position (man on top) — are more promising than other positions. But there are no studies to back this up.

Stand on your head

There's no evidence that it makes a difference, but it can't hurt. Even remaining horizontal for 15 minutes or so after intercourse allows more semen to remain in your vagina. Of course, with millions of sperm in every ejaculation, there should be plenty of sperm in your vagina even if you get up right away.

2008-04-13T16:56:00.002-07:00

If you have previously had a c-section you may be wondering if you can have a vaginal delivery after cesarean or VBAC. About 7 out of 10 women who try to have a VBAC are successful at doing so. The likelihood increases if you have also had a previous vaginal delivery, to 80%. The previous incision on the uterus however, must have been transverse (across the abdomen).

You will need to talk to your doctor about your particular case to see if you can try to have a vaginal birth. If the reason for your previous cesarean was a one-time problem and isn't an issue in your current pregnancy, you have a good chance of a vaginal birth.

The benefits of a VBAC compared to a C-section include:

Avoiding another scar on your uterus. This is important if you are planning on a future pregnancy—the more scars on the uterus, the greater the chance of problems with a later pregnancy.
Less pain after delivery.
Fewer days in the hospital and a shorter recovery at home.
A lower risk of infection.
A more active role for you and your birthing partner in the birth of your child.

One major concern from women, is rupturing of the uterus at the location of the previous incision during labor. There is a very low risk of rupturing of the uterus - about 0.1 %.

The risk of uterine rupture during labour increases if you have had more than one caesarean birth, and if you had a caesarean in the past 18 to 24 months. Your risk also increases if you had more than one caesarean.

Want to know what other moms think? Start a discussion about it.

2008-04-13T16:56:00.001-07:00

If you are trying to conceive you can actually start taking prenatal vitamins now. It is important to be eating a diet high in folic acid. You get folic acid from eating lots of fruit and vegetables. In addition you should also try and cut out unhealthy processed foods, and make your best effort to follow Canada's Food Guide.

Cutting out things like alcohol, cigarettes and drugs are also important, and not only for you, but also for your partner. If you are on prescription drugs, make sure to mention to your Dr. that you are trying to get pregnant, just in case he or she wants to recommend anything else. Try to limit stress. It is easier said than done, but if you know that going to certain places or speaking to certain people stresses you out, try and avoid them if at all possible. If not, start practicing relaxation techniques, like yoga, or simple deep breathing with your eyes closed for a minute or two.

Try and get your self at an ideal weight and blood pressure level. If you have never worked out before you can start slow by walking, or doing yoga, and work yourself up to jogging and weight training. You can keep working out through out your pregnancy. There are many benefits to doing so.

2008-04-13T16:55:00.001-07:00

Related: fertility calculator

What is ovulation anyway?

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary, pushed down the fallopian tube, and is available to be fertilized. The lining of the uterus has thickened to prepare for a fertilized egg. If no conception occurs, the uterine lining as well as blood will be shed. The shedding of an unfertilized egg and the uterine wall is the time of menstruation. Here are some additional facts about ovulation.

An egg lives 12-24 hours after leaving the ovary
Normally only one egg is released each time of ovulation
Ovulation can be affected by stress, illness or disruption of normal routines
Some women may experience some light blood spotting during ovulation
Implantation of a fertilized egg normally takes place 6-12 days after ovulation
Each woman is born with millions of immature eggs that are awaiting ovulation to begin
A menstrual period can occur even if ovulation has not occurred
Ovulation can occur even if a menstrual period has not occurred
Some women can feel a bit of pain or aching near the ovaries during ovulation
If an egg is not fertilized, it disintegrates and is absorbed into the uterine lining

When does it occur?

If you are trying to conceive, it may be helpful to mark your most fertile days on your calendar. Here is how to calculate yours: from the first day of your last, or next period, the 13th to 17th days are your most fertile (for women with a 28 day cycle). If you do not have a 28 day cycle, you can figure out your most fertile days here.

2008-04-13T16:54:00.002-07:00

Soothing Colic

2008-04-13T16:54:00.001-07:00

My daughter is 2 weeks old and is a great calm baby in the most part, but every night around 10pm she gets really colicky. How can I calm her and soothe her?

-Anonymous

2008-04-05T07:14:00.001-07:00

New Question on the Discussion Board- Child Birth/ Prenatal Classes
Would anyone be able to tell me who to contact to sign up for childbirth/prenatal classes in Saint John? Thanks! -Anonymous Reply to this post here! ................................................................................................................

2008-04-05T06:56:00.001-07:00

There are many professionals that can help you deal with the way you are feeling. Don't feel embarrassed or ashamed, it's normal, and there is help.

Full list coming soon!

2008-04-05T06:56:00.000-07:00

Are you feeling like you have never felt before? Depressed, crying all the time, or that you dont live your baby like you should? Talk about it anonymously, other moms who have been there can give you advice, and let you know it's OK.

2008-04-05T06:51:00.000-07:00

It's estimated that over 900 women in New Brunswick suffer from postpartum depression. The exact cause of postpartum depression is unknown but is believed to be triggered by biological changes and hormone fluctuations and imbalances following childbirth.

Also, when the mother's expectations of childbirth and beyond do not live up, the resultant stress can trigger depression that goes far beyond feeling down. Most women (up to 80%) experience some sort of the "baby blues" which usually subsides within 10 days after giving birth. When women experience ongoing depression lasting much longer (sometimes up to 1 year), this is known as postpartum depression.

With symptoms including anxiety, exhaustion, confusion, guilt, feelings of failure, and fear of harming one's self or one's child, it's not surprising that many women feel embarrassed and say nothing, and don't seek help.

Experiencing depression after childbirth isn't a character flaw or a weakness. Sometimes it's simply part of giving birth. If you're depressed, prompt treatment can help you manage your symptoms — and enjoy your baby.

Signs and symptoms

The signs and symptoms of depression after childbirth vary depending on the form of depression. Signs and symptoms of the baby blues — which last only a few days or weeks — may include:

Anxiety
Sadness
Irritability
Crying
Headaches
Exhaustion
A sense of inadequacy

Postpartum depression may appear to be the baby blues at first — but the signs and symptoms are more intense and longer lasting, eventually interfering with your ability to function. In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above, you may experience:

Constant fatigue
Lack of joy in life
A sense of emotional numbness or failure
Withdrawal from family and friends
Lack of concern for yourself or your baby
Excessive concern for your baby
Less interest in sex
Severe mood swings
Impaired thinking or concentration
Insomnia

With postpartum psychosis — a rare condition that develops within the first six weeks after delivery — the signs and symptoms are even more severe. In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above, you may experience:

Fear of harming yourself or your baby
Confusion and disorientation
Hallucinations and delusions
Paranoia

Causes

There's no single cause for depression after childbirth. Physical, emotional and lifestyle factors may all play a role.

Physical changes. After childbirth, a dramatic drop in estrogen and progesterone may trigger depression. The hormones produced by your thyroid gland also may drop sharply — which can leave you feeling tired, sluggish and depressed. Changes in your blood volume, blood pressure, immune system and metabolism can lead to fatigue and mood swings.
Emotional factors. When you're sleep deprived and overwhelmed, you may have trouble handling even minor problems. You may be anxious about your ability to care for a newborn. You may feel less attractive or struggle with your sense of identity. You may feel that you've lost control over your life. Any of these factors can contribute to depression.
Lifestyle influences. Many lifestyle factors can lead to depression, including a demanding baby or older siblings, difficulty breast-feeding, exhaustion, financial problems, and lack of support from your partner or other loved ones.

Risk factors

Postpartum depression can develop after the birth of any child — not just the first. In fact, postpartum depression is more common in second-time mothers.

The risk of postpartum depression increases if:

You have a history of depression, either during pregnancy or at other times
You had postpartum depression after a previous pregnancy
You have a history of severe premenstrual syndrome
You experienced stressful events during pregnancy, including illness, premature birth or a difficult delivery
You have a difficult marriage
The pregnancy is unplanned or unwanted

When to seek medical advice

If you're feeling depressed after your baby's birth, you may be reluctant or embarrassed to admit it. But it's important to tell your doctor. If the signs and symptoms of depression don't fade after a few weeks or if they're so severe that they interfere with your ability to complete everyday tasks, call your doctor. Early intervention can speed your recovery.

If you suspect that you're developing postpartum psychosis, seek medical attention immediately. Don't wait and hope for improvement. Postpartum psychosis may lead to life-threatening thoughts or behaviors.

Screening and diagnosis

To distinguish between a short-term case of the baby blues and a more severe form of depression, your doctor may ask you to complete a depression-screening questionnaire. Blood tests can help your doctor determine whether an underactive thyroid is contributing to your signs and symptoms.

Complications

Left untreated, postpartum depression can last for up to a year or longer — taking a toll on the entire family. Untreated postpartum depression can interfere with mother-child bonding and cause family distress. Children of mothers with untreated postpartum depression are more likely to have behavioral problems, including sleeping and eating difficulties, temper tantrums and hyperactivity. Delays in language development are common as well.

Treatment

Treatment and recovery time vary, depending on the severity of your depression and your individual needs.

Baby blues
The baby blues usually fade on their own within a few days to weeks. In the meantime, get as much rest as you can. Accept help from family and friends. Connect with other new moms. If you have an underactive thyroid, your doctor may prescribe thyroid medication.

Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is often treated with counseling and medication.

Counseling. It may help to talk through your concerns with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional. Through counseling, you can find better ways to cope with your feelings, solve problems and set realistic goals.
Antidepressants. Antidepressants are a proven treatment for postpartum depression. If you're breast-feeding, it's important to know that any medication you take will enter your breast milk. Some antidepressants can be used during breast-feeding with little risk to your baby. But several antidepressants raise concerns for the baby, and various others have not been adequately tested to fully assess the risk. Work with your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits as you choose the treatment that's right for you.
Hormone therapy. Estrogen replacement may help counteract the rapid drop in estrogen that accompanies childbirth. However, estrogen therapy after childbirth may decrease milk production and increase the risk of developing blood clots in the leg or lungs. As with antidepressants, weigh the potential risks and benefits of hormone therapy with your doctor.

With appropriate treatment, postpartum depression usually goes away within a few months. Some women have lingering symptoms for months or years.

Postpartum psychosis
Postpartum psychosis requires immediate treatment — often in the hospital. When your safety is assured, treatment may begin with antidepressants or hormone therapy. Other options may include:

Antipsychotic agents. These medications are typically used to treat psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. But they can also treat the psychosis that may accompany extreme cases of depression.
Lithium. This mood stabilizer — generally used to treat bipolar disorder — can help balance mood swings. It's not recommended for women who are breast-feeding, however.
Electroconvulsive therapy. This therapy applies a small amount of electrical current to your brain to produce brain waves similar to those that occur during a seizure. The chemical changes triggered by the electrical currents can reduce the symptoms of depression — especially when other treatments have failed or when you need immediate results.

Self-care

If you have postpartum depression, taking good care of yourself can help speed your recovery.

Make healthy lifestyle choices. Rest as much as you can. Exercise regularly. Try daily walks with your baby. Eat healthy foods — plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid alcohol.
Set realistic expectations. Don't pressure yourself to do everything. Scale back your expectations for the perfect household. Do what you can and leave the rest. Ask for help when you need it.
Make time for yourself. If you feel like the world is coming down around you, take some time for yourself. Get dressed, leave the house and visit a friend or run an errand. Or schedule some time alone with your partner.
Avoid isolation. Talk with your partner, family and friends about how you're feeling. Ask other mothers about their experiences. Ask your doctor about local support groups for new moms or women with postpartum depression.

Remember, the best way to take care of your baby is to take care of yourself.

2008-04-05T06:37:00.000-07:00

What other moms in the Saint John, NB area recommend...

"...with my kids and I have 3 between 5 and 10 months the best so far and their favorite was Boston Pizza. There are always a lot of kids there."
-Samara Matheson

"The Pizza Delight by Walmart. It even has a playroom! Its great!"
-Angie Bryan

"I'm finding that KV/Rothesay is really becoming family friendly. There is an amazing new cafe called The Red Whale...they provide a Bumbo, beanbag chairs and high chairs and lots of moms have mom group coffee there in the mornings. Also, the Dolan Road Irving (on the highway) is baby friendly and very casual. Vito's in Rothesay is great too. Every time I've been there they've done there best to accommodate us."
-Brittany Rickett

"HAMPTON - hollys restaurant, SAINT JOHN EAST - east side marios, boston pizza, swiss chalet, UPTOWN - java mouse, Ale house, hollys cafe soha, coras, thandis restaurant, that is where we go to most - we go out to eat about once a week (or twice :-))"
-Jenny Brown

"Swiss Chalet its great and they are great with you."
-Lydia Mae Smith

"Definitely Montana's! Everyone is really friendly! They even supply blank paper right on the table and crayons on every table to draw while you wait for you food! Not to mention they have amazing food!"
-Angelica Thibodeau

Tell us about your favorite place by posting a comment below.

When paternity is uncertain

2008-04-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Discussion:

Do you believe if a woman is uncertain of the paternity of her child that she should let all parties know, if the "dad" has no idea and believes he is the father? Does it make a difference how old the child is/how long the thought believed father has been the father figure?

2008-04-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

A Guide to Feeding your Baby Solids

Around 4 - 6 months your baby will start to need more nutrients that s/he can get from breast milk alone. Solid foods can be introduced to provide these extra nutrients. However, solids do not replace the need for breast milk. Your baby is also developing new feeding skills to eat solid foods. However, a baby does not need solid foods sooner than 4 – 6 months.

Feeding solids earlier than 4 – 6 months might result in babies drinking less breast milk or formula than they need for ideal growth.

The following charts are a guide for the amount of food your baby requires in a day. A baby's need for food varies according to age, activity, and growth rate. You and your baby are the best judges of how much s/he wants at any feeding.

When you add new foods, introduce them:

one new food at a time
slowly; 4 to 7 days between new foods
in small amounts (1 teaspoon)
with a spoon
in a relaxed atmosphere

4 – 5 months

Feeding Skills

begins reaching purposefully, grabs at bottle when drinking, strokes breast when breastfeeding
sucking strength increases
holds head up and turns sideways
accepts food from a spoon

Approximate Daily Food Intake

breast milk (or)	frequency varies
formula (iron fortified)	24 to 40 ounces
dry infant cereal (iron fortified)	0 to 4 tablespoons

egetables and fruits might not be necessary before 6 months. If your baby is ready for them, quantities are suggested below.

vegetables	0 to 4 tablespoons
fruit	0 to 4 tablespoons

Hints

Breast milk is the best choice for the first year of life. Amounts consumed will vary for every child.
Iron fortified commercial formula is the best alternative to breast milk.
Introduce solids with iron fortified infant rice cereal. Try 1 teaspoon at first and gradually increase to 2 or 3 tablespoons at a meal. Many babies are not ready for solids until 6 months.
Combinations of foods should be avoided until your baby has eaten each food individually.
Water can be offered in small amounts.

6 – 8 months

Feeding Skills

holds mouth open for spoon
clears spoon quickly and easily with lips
begins to chew
begins finger feeding

Approximate Daily Food Intake

breast milk	frequency varies
or formula (iron fortified)	24 to 32 ounces
dry infant cereal (iron fortified)	4 to 8 tablespoons
vegetables	4 to 8 tablespoons
fruit	4 to 7 tablespoons
meat	3 to 6 tablespoons
juice (optional)	3 to 4 ounces

Hints

All babies need solids by 6 months.
Pureed vegetables and fruits can be given after cereals are accepted.
Vegetables should be unsalted; try squash, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Fruits and juices should be unsweetened. Offer juice by the cup.
Offer a single pureed meat, such as chicken, after the vegetables and fruits are accepted.
Well cooked egg yolk can be given. Egg white should not be given until one year because it is a common allergen.

9 – 10 months

Feeding Skills

closes mouth on cup rim
sips from cup (one sip at a time)
swallows lumps
shows interest in holding spoon in hand
enjoys chewing

Approximate Daily Food Intake

breast milk	frequency varies
or formula (iron fortified)	24 to 30 ounces
or homo milk	8 to 10 tablespoons
dry infant cereal (iron fortified)	8 to 10 tablespoons
vegetables	8 to 10 tablespoons
fruit	7 tablespoons
meat	6 to 8 tablespoons
juice (optional)	4 ounces

Hints

Whole milk (homogenized milk) can be introduced after 9 months.
Avoid adding extra fat such as butter, margarine, and oil to foods.
A portion of the total suggested milk intake can be replaced with plain yogurt or cheese.
Encourage your infant to drink from a cup.
Foods can be mashed, finely chopped, or given as finger foods (such as soft cooked vegetables, soft fruit pieces or dry toast, plain crackers, bread crusts, unsweetened cereals, rice cakes, cheese).
Bread, pasta, and rice may be offered.

11 – 12 months

Feeding Skills

bites and chews food well
accepts 4 to 5 sips from a cup
tries to hold cup to drink
feeds with fingers
tries to feed self but needs help

Approximate Daily Food Intake

breast milk	frequency varies
or formula (iron fortified)	20 to 24 ounces
or homo milk	20 to 24 ounces
dry infant cereal (iron fortified)	10 to 12 tablespoons
vegetables	10 to 12 tablespoons
fruit	7 to 10 tablespoons
meat	8 to 10 tablespoons
juice (optional)	4 ounces
bread	½ to 1 slice

Hints

Iron fortified infant cereals contain iron in a form that is easily absorbed by the young child and should be part of your baby's diet for at least 18 months.
Wait until after 12 months to feed egg white to your baby. Start with ¼ teaspoon cooked egg white.
Mashed beans, tofu or eggs (yolks only until 12 months) can be used as meat alternates.
By the end of the first year, your baby should be eating minced meat and most table foods at regular meal and snack times.
Avoid weiners, nuts, grapes, popcorn, hard raw vegetables, gum, gumdrops, hard or chewy candy, and jelly beans as they can cause choking.

Breast milk is the best choice for the first year.

Iron fortified formula is the best alternative to breast milk for the first year.
Whole (homogenized) milk can be introduced at 9 – 12 months of age.
2%, 1%, Skim milk are not recommended before 2 years.

2008-04-05T05:50:00.001-07:00

1 Month Old
2 Month Old
3 Month Old
4 Month Old
5 Month Old
6 Month Old
7 Month Old
8 Month Old
9 Month Old
10 Month Old
11 Month Old
12 Month Old

2008-04-05T05:49:00.000-07:00

2008-04-05T05:44:00.000-07:00

Your baby will love these simple games and they'll help her development too.

If you don't see your favorite baby game below, why not scroll down to the comments below, to share it with us.

0-3 months

• Copycat

Your baby loves having the chance to watch your face and this game will help sharpen her visual skills, too. Hold your baby close - she can focus best at around 20-35 cm - and when she is gazing into your eyes, slowly poke your tongue out. Do this every 20 seconds or so. It may take a minute or so but after a while, you will notice she's sticking her tiny tongue back out at you. She'll try to imitate other facial expressions too, such as a big smile or wide open mouth.

• Tickle songs

Once your baby is a little older, try playing 'This little piggy' or 'Round and round the garden' with her feet or hands. Hold her close on your lap and gently uncurl her toes or fingers as you sing. Repeat the song a couple of times until she starts to giggle in excited anticipation of the tickle at the end. Simple, repetitive rhymes like these are great for improving your baby's memory skills.

• Roll and stretch

Your developing baby will soon be able to raise her head up for a second or two when lying on her tummy. If she's happy in this position, roll a brightly coloured ball across her line of vision about 60cm (2 ft) from her body. To begin with, she'll concentrate on watching the ball but soon she'll try to stretch towards it. This will help strengthen her neck, arm and leg muscles. Always give her lots of praise and finish the game as soon she starts to get frustrated.

3-6 months

• Catch me

Attach a small soft toy to a brightly coloured ribbon. Dangle it in front of her and make it sway. When she reaches out to try and touch or grab it, give her lots of praise. Squeaky toys will also entice your baby to reach and grab, and help her practise her hand-eye co-ordination.

• Chatterbox

Have a conversation with your baby. Your baby loves interacting with you and as she becomes more vocal, responding to her coos, gurgles and grunts will also help encourage her language development. Sit her facing you and when she says 'aahh' say 'aaah' in return. Encourage her to mimic you, too. Try, for example, stretching the sounds out: instead of 'bah' say 'baaaaaah'. Or even add a new sound to a familiar one: 'ooh-baaaah.'

• Bubble magic

All babies are fascinated by bubbles. Sit him in her bouncy chair or car seat and using a simple bubble-blowing toy, blow bubbles around him. See how he tracks the bubbles with his eyes as they float down. Blow bubbles when he's outside in his stroller too. If he catches one he'll learn about cause and effect -- touch and they go pop! (Remember to clean his hands afterwards so he doesn't get soapy water in his eyes).

6-9 months

• Puppet show

Make some simple finger puppets from cut-off gloves and give them ears, eyes and a mouth with pieces of glued-on felt. Show your baby how you can make them sing, dance, tickle and kiss! She'll love watching them come alive and pretending that the puppets are real will help develop her imagination.

• In and out

Your baby loves emptying everything -- drawers, your purse, boxes of tissues, bags. Turn this into a game you can both play. Fill a large plastic container or bowl with safe, interesting objects, such as blocks, small soft toys, rattles or measuring cups. Help your baby pick up the container and turn it upside down, then together fill the container up again. Handling different objects will help him learn about size, shape and weight as well as introducing early mathematical concepts such as big and small, empty and full.

• Adventure playground

If your baby is becoming mobile, build a miniature obstacle course out of cushions. Stay at ground level and peep out from behind them, or use a toy to encourage her to climb over them. This fun game will help develop her body strength, balance and co-ordination.

9-12 months

• Kick ball

Your baby doesn't need to be walking to have fun playing football. Place a lightweight, medium-sized ball in front of you, hold her firmly under her arms, pick her up and swing her forward so her legs make contact with the ball. Help her 'kick' it across the floor or the yard. Swinging her legs helps your baby strengthen her tummy and leg muscles and prepare her for playing football for real when she's older!

• Tower power

Gather together a collection of old cereal boxes, lightweight books, plastic bowls, yogurt pots and baby blocks, then work together to build a tower. Once it's up and ready, take it in turns to knock it down. Your baby will love watching it tumble -- and at the same time he's learning about sizes and shapes.

• Watch me!

Your baby loves imitating you -- if he sees you busy brushing your hair or wiping your face he'll try to copy what you're doing. Turn this instinct into a fun game by doing things like slapping your thigh, putting your hands on your head, blowing out your cheeks. Invent a silly song to go with your actions and he'll learn new words too. Learning to imitate is one of the first steps towards imaginary play.

Child Birth/ Prenatal Classes

2008-04-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

Would anyone be able to tell me who to contact to sign up for childbirth/prenatal classes in Saint John? Thanks!
-Anonymous

All Through The Night

2008-04-04T11:48:00.001-07:00

Myths and facts about babies and sleep – psst…you’re not alone!

By Lisa Murphy

You’ve just stumbled into your Baby Rhyme Time class, bleary-eyed and hopped up on lattes after another sleepless night, thanks to Little Miss Feed-a-Lot. Then you overhear one mom chirp, “Emma’s already sleeping through the night!” Rage simmers. Later, when you kvetch to your own mom, she says, “Well, you kids slept beautifully, but I wasn’t breastfeeding.” Resist the urge to strangle them both. The topic of infant sleep is highly subject to revisionist history and half-truths – otherwise people might stop having kids altogether! But let’s stick to the facts: “Babies typically wake about three times per night under one year of age,” says Dr. Shelly K. Weiss, a pediatric neurologist at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, and author of Better Sleep for your Baby & Child (Robert Rose). Here, we debunk six myths, including the idea that your baby’s the only one not sleeping through the night!

Myth No. 1 “You can get him on a schedule from day one.”

“Until three months of age, babies eat and sleep around the clock,” says Dr. Weiss. They’re physically incapable of adhering to a schedule. Even great sleepers may have wakeful nights later due to teething, separation anxiety, illness or a big physical milestone. (Don’t worry, Ms. Chirpy from Rhyme Time will get hers.) The grain of truth: Keeping lights low and interacting less at night can help baby distinguish night from day. Dr. Valerie Kirk, a pediatric respirologist and medical director of the pediatric sleep service at Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary, adds: “The only thing parents can and need to do as early as possible is put their baby down sleepy but not asleep.” Learning to soothe himself and fall sleep will equal more peaceful nights later on.

2 “Babies just don’t sleep as well on their back.”

Babies sleep lighter – but still well – in this position, says Dr. Kirk. The grain of truth: Babies are more likely to rouse from a back-sleeping position if they’re in danger – that’s why it has been associated with a lowered risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

3 “You can sleep when the baby is sleeping.”

Many women find it difficult to sleep when they don’t know whether Junior will be up and bawling in five minutes or two hours. “One day my daughter, Claire, would sleep 2.5 hours, the next, just half an hour, so I found it a better use of my time to shower!” says Darlene Donnelly of Toronto. The grain of truth: Napping or taking turns sleeping in when your partner is home may help you catch a few anxiety-free zzzs. Getting your partner to provide a bottle of breast milk or formula now and again can also give him bonding time and you a break, says Dr. Kirk.

4 “Once she starts solids, she’ll sleep eight hours.”

“There’s no research to prove this,” says Dr. Weiss. Nor is there proof that heavier babies sleep better. “I was always told that once the baby weighs 10 pounds it will sleep through the night!” says Pauline Dekker, a Toronto mom. “Not true!” The grain of truth: Cluster breastfeeding before bedtime may help younger babies sleep a little bit longer. After eight months they shouldn’t need to eat in the night for nutritional reasons, says Dr. Kirk.

5 “Shorter daytime naps equal longer night sleeps.”

“It’s actually the opposite,” says Dr. Weiss. “A well-rested baby will sleep better at night.” The grain of truth: “It’s important to watch the timing of naps,” she adds. “If your baby sleeps past 4 or 5 p.m., bedtime will be delayed.”

6 “let her cry for 20 minutes and she’ll be golden.”

Parents often misunderstand or misapply sleep-training techniques, says Dr. Kirk. Occasionally allowing your child to scream for two hours, or going cold turkey on night feeding without doing any research beforehand, won’t work. The grain of truth: A phased-in sleep-training method can help babies six months or older. Talk to your doc about gradually decreasing night feedings or slowly increasing the length of time before you go in to soothe baby from five to 10 to 15 minutes. “Be persistent and consistent,” says Dr. Weiss. “Habits that developed over nine months will not be resolved in four days.”

At the end of the day (or night), sometimes you just need to adjust your attitude. “My wife and I kept getting up angry,” says Richard Whate, a Toronto dad. “Finally, we accepted that we weren’t going to sleep all night and started taking turns.”

Lisa Murphy is a Toronto writer who sometimes still gets up in the night with her two- and four-year-olds.

2008-04-04T07:35:00.001-07:00

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When You're Ready for Sex but He Isn't

2008-04-04T07:34:00.001-07:00

Men and post-baby sex
By Kathy Kelleher

The cliche among the new-parent set is that men always want sex and women never do. But believe it or not, some fathers are not exactly chomping at the bit after the baby arrives.

When it comes to their interest in sex, new fathers fall into two camps, says Greg Dillon, M.D., a psychiatrist in New York City. One is those men who see maternity as sexy and find their wives alluring during pregnancy and all phases of new motherhood; the other camp is those who have trouble reconciling the concept of mother with that of sexual partner. Men in the latter group may be less than enthusiastic about getting back into the post-baby sexual groove for complex reasons.

Why he doesn't want it

"One piece of the puzzle for conflicted men is that seeing their wives nurture or care for a baby simply evokes a motherly image, which feels inconsistent with sexuality," says Dillon. "They don't want to equate sex with the images of motherhood."

This is partly because new fathers can't help but think of their own mother, either consciously or unconsciously, when seeing their wife with the baby. Also, fathers who witness childbirth—a wonderful experience but also one that can be disturbingly graphic—can find it traumatic. "His perception of her as a birth-giving mother may contradict his view of her as a lover, which could diminish his sex drive," says Dillon.

If a new father can't reconcile the concept of his wife as a mother and a sexual being and it negatively affects the couple's sex life, then he (or the couple) should seek help from a therapist—and soon. "Questions of sexual attraction can spiral quickly into low self-esteem for both parties and intractable dynamics," Dillon explains. "Guilt and embarrassment can make it hard for either partner to address the issues."

Another cause of alienation—and a far more common one—is the emotional impact of the new baby, says Dillon. The reality is that the presence of the baby plays a much bigger part in men's withdrawal from sex than they are willing to admit. The mother has a new love of her life, and many men feel ashamed of any negative feelings they might have.

"A husband may see his wife kissing the baby and have feelings of jealousy and being left out but be conflicted about confronting the issue," Dillon says, "so instead he shuts down and backs away."

What's a guy to do?

Men need first to address and work through any feelings of jealousy or competition with the new baby by understanding that love for the baby is different from romantic love and that one does not take away from the other, says Dillon. Then they can raise the subject with their partner in a constructive manner rather than a defensive one.

"For example," Dillon says, "he can say, 'I miss spending time alone with you' or 'I booked a sitter; can I take you out on a date?' This addresses his need to reassert his place as her object of romantic love and reassures her that she is attractive and desirable without posing a competitive stance with the new baby."

2008-03-31T18:19:00.000-07:00

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Child Care- She's All yours
You turn to walk out the day-care door, and your baby looks at you with those big round eyes, pauses and ... happily waves goodbye. This is what you wanted, right? A guilt-free exit before going to work. Why, then, is there a lump in your throat?

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Hot Topic Discussion
Are we over protecting our children? "You came out fine." What do you think? Are we going too far and not letting our children learn for themselves? Share your thoughts!

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FredMoms Blogs: On Bringing Up Boys
In her post titled 'Spring Is In The Air' Jerusha recounts the great day she had with her family.

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Health Canada recalls children's drug
Health Canada says not to give infants, especially those with weak immune systems, a certain lot of PediaCol colic drops as it is contaminated with yeast. The drops are to reduce gas associated with colic. The Drug ID Number is 02245510, and the affected lot number is PDC701. Anyone with PediaCol from that lot should return it to the store or throw it out. Symptoms of exposure include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, weight loss, lethargy, coughing or decreased appetite.
To report a suspected adverse reaction, please call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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Are we over-protective?

2008-03-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

You frequently hear, "My parents did/didn't do that with me, and I came out fine."

Do you think we are overprotecting, over vaccinating, over evaluating, under-disciplining, and over medicating children in this day and age?

Childcare 101 - She's All Yours

2008-03-21T15:03:00.001-07:00

By: Michelle Roberts

You turn to walk out the day-care door, and your baby looks at you with those big round eyes, pauses and ... happily waves goodbye. This is what you wanted, right? A guilt-free exit before going to work. Why, then, is there a lump in your throat?

We all want our children to feel safe and secure with their caregivers. But if, like many working moms, you fear your baby will develop a stronger bond with her day-care provider than with you, here's comforting news. A comprehensive study reported in a recent issue of Child Development reveals that, while parent-child and caregiver-child relationships share important similarities, children are much more likely to form secure attachments to their moms and dads. "It's healthy that parents want to be the primary people in their child's life," says Eileen Brennan, PhD, a work/life and early childhood researcher and associate dean of social work at Portland State University in Oregon. "And this study reassures that a caregiver most likely won't take over this role."

The research also suggests that the longer children had been enrolled in a day-care facility, the more likely they were to have secure relationships with their care providers—also a good thing, says Dr. Brennan. "Rather than being concerned that your baby will bond more closely to a caregiver, focus on finding consistent care that will encourage her ability to bond," Dr. Brennan suggests. "Kids need to feel secure that there's a caring adult they can go to when they're hurt or scared. Continuity of care is critical for that."

Still, you want to stay connected to your child all day. Make sure your caregiver knows to call you when important matters arise—if your baby is injured or ill—so you can respond quickly. Also tell her you'd like to be called when your little one reaches a major milestone, so you can offer congratulations.

Ultimately, it's the quality of your child's relationship with you that forms the basis for other interactions throughout life. By providing a loving, nurturing, predictable environment—at home and away—you help build security for your child that lets her explore, learn and form a multitude of positive relationships.

Bright Little Ways to Bond
Here are three simple strategies for making the most of your together time:

Tell stories and sing songs while commuting. Babies and toddlers enjoy the repetition of favorite tales and tunes—and especially Mom's voice. Your child will look forward to this special time with you in the car or on the bus each weekday morning.
Make ordinary tasks a treat. Maximize your mornings, sneaking in some fun by, for instance, buying colorful toothpaste and brushing away together.
Enjoy simple nighttime rituals. Little ones thrive on these constancies. So make them dependable but easygoing: Play, read, cuddle, lights out—with lots of smiles.

2008-03-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

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2008-03-21T14:58:00.001-07:00

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2008-03-21T14:57:00.005-07:00

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2008-03-21T14:57:00.003-07:00

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2008-03-21T14:57:00.001-07:00

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2008-03-21T14:52:00.001-07:00

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2008-03-15T06:34:00.001-07:00

Recalls

2008-03-13T14:01:00.001-07:00

Gov of Canada-
Most Recently Listed Recalls
Please note, the site above may not contain the most up to date information.

US Consumer Product Recall Listings
Infant/Child Products (Not Toys)
Toy Recalls

The Recall Listings From the US Consumer website is listed because they are updated so promptly, and often include more detail than any other source.

If you know of a Canadian Recall on any of these sites, please post it as a comment below and let others know.

Thank you.

2008-03-13T14:00:00.001-07:00

Baby & Mom

Enfamil Formula Sample & Coupons
Sample of Toddler Enfagrow
Cooling Care Nursing Pads
Nestle Baby Formula & Coupons

Food/ Food Coupons

Sample of Salba
Sample of Teeccino Caffeine Free Herbal Coffee
Coupon For Free Campbell's Product
Coupon (Mailed To You) For Free Block Of Cheese
Grocery Coupons From Save.ca
Full Size Coffee Mate (liquid or powder) Coupon Mailed to you
Subscription to What's Cooking Magazine/Cookbook
Register for Coupon for FREE BOX of Kashi Granola Bars

Feminine Hygiene Products

Always Clean
Tena Product
Playtex Sport Tampons
OB Travel Pack of Tampons

Bath, Beauty, & Personal Products

Olay Regenerist Eye Pod Sample
Loreal Skin Genesis
ID Lubricant Sample
Olay Definity
Garnier Fructus Sample Pack
Olay Total Effects
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2008-03-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

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2008-03-13T13:31:00.001-07:00

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Botox Can Save Babies' Lives

2008-03-13T13:30:00.001-07:00

Medical first in Montreal. Infants with life-threatening syndrome, stigmatized older kids can live normal life

SHARON KIRKEY, Canwest News Service

Canadian doctors are using Botox to get newborns off breathing machines and to treat the social humiliation of excessive drooling in older children and teens.

In what is being described as the first case anywhere of Botox being used on a newborn, a Montreal doctor injected minute doses of the botulinum toxin into the salivary glands of a 21/2-month-old infant suffering from CHARGE syndrome, a rare but life-threatening congenital problem that can cause multiple birth defects, including difficulty swallowing. Saliva ends up pooling in babies' throats and filling their lungs.

The Montreal baby was choking on his secretions "from the minute he was born" in 2005, said Sam Daniel, associate director of research of the otorhinolaryngology division at the Children's Hospital. The baby developed multiple pneumonia and had to be connected to a ventilator when he was five days old. Doctors tried four times to get him off. Normally, the only option is to perform a tracheostomy, where a tube is inserted through a hole in the neck into the trachea, or windpipe. Babies "breathe through their neck and get suctioned through this tube that's hanging out of their neck," Daniel said.

But the tube has to be suctioned regularly to remove thick mucus and secretions. And because there's an open passage into the lungs, children can easily catch infections. There's also a five-per-cent risk of death.

"It's very dramatic and commits the family to basically providing 24 hours a day of care," Daniel said. "I've seen families break because of the burden of care."

Two weeks after Daniel used Botox to paralyze the nerves in the baby's saliva glands to keep them from secreting saliva, the baby was taken off the ventilator. Repeat injections were given every four to six months until his glands shrunk and stopped overproducing saliva.

Three years later, the Montreal toddler is leading a normal life. The case appears this week in the journal Archives of Otolaryngology. Researchers at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children also have reported using Botox to treat drooling in older children with neurological conditions.

Daniel has now performed more than 1,000 Botox injections in children, including 12 newborns, with "hyper-salivation." Many have cerebral palsy. But, "others are normal kids who for whatever reason have more saliva than others," he said.

"You can't believe when these families come. You have the child who can't attend daycare because no one wants to play with him, he's wetting all the toys and kids reject him.

"I've had a teenager who was refused cooking classes because everyone thought she was disgusting." He once treated a waiter who was fired for spitting when he talked.

"At a social level, it affects these kids. Often, they're isolated at school, they're bullied, they're teased. They smudge their drawings with saliva, or their homework is dirty. It has a much higher social impact than a lot of other conditions and it's very stigmatizing," Daniel said.

Medications can cause side effects such as severe constipation or blurry vision, and surgery to remove the saliva glands can be an even worse trade off, Daniel said. Mouths can end up "dry as wood" or not enough saliva is produced to lubricate food.

"The advantage of Botox is that its fully reversible and you can tailor how many glands you're going to inject."

2008-03-13T06:10:00.001-07:00

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2008-03-13T05:53:00.000-07:00

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2008-03-13T05:44:00.000-07:00

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