The Importance of Infant Eye Exams
Has your baby had an eye examination yet? No just one conducted by a pediatrician, but a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist? Most pediatric exams are designed to only detect serious abnormalities of the eye. An infant eye and vision exam, performed by an InfantSEE trained optometrist, will test for “overall eye health, visual acuity, excessive or unequal amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, evaluate eye alignment, and examine eye teaming ability.” Traditional pediatric exams often miss the above vision concerns. If a problem is found, early intervention can lead to a full correction or reduction in the condition’s severity. Undiagnosed vision problems are often a hidden cause of poor academic performance. Babies should have their first comprehensive eye exam between 6 – 12 months of age. The InfantSee program offers parents a FREE examination of their baby’s eyes regardless of income level or insurance coverage. To locate a participating optometrist, Click Here.
The next two stories demonstrate that Nature has a plan for mothers….more intricate and beneficial than we casually understand. Scientific advances should compliment not complicate this primordial instruction.
A mother’s instict saves her premature son after doctors declared her son deceased—amazing.
If you are interested in learning more about Kangaroo Care, Click Here.
Breastfeeding Reduces Diabetes Risk
More than 240 million people worldwide have diabetes. Current research indicates that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s lifetime risk of diabetes. If you are currently pregnant, seriously consider nursing your baby from birth. Both you and your baby will gain tremendous benefits.
A mother and her newborn fight to survive the floods and their aftermath in Pakistan.
You can help women and children (8.5 million children are in need) impacted by the floods by making a donation to UNICEF.
What fun!
Celebrity Cradle
A little political celebrity first.
British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha have just released photographs of newly born daughter, Florence Rose Endellion. What a proud papa!
Keeping fingers crossed for Mariah and Nick.
The actress was aglow as she spoke about her pregnancy on Lopez Tonight.
Ending speculations that they were expecting twins, the Travolta’s announced that the stork will be delivering a baby boy.
Country singer James Otto and his wife Amy have welcomed Katharine Ava to the world.
Pesticide Exposure In Pregnancy Linked To ADHD
Yet, another study demonstrating a link between pesticide exposure and Attention Deficit & Hyperactivity Disorder. Exposure to organophosphate chemicals in the womb is detrimental to the delicate and developing nervous system of the human fetus. Organophosphates were designed to wreak havoc on the nervous system of insects. ADHD levels are on the rise, and the condition seems to display higher rates in boys than girls.
What can you do?
1) Buy/grow as much organic produce as possible. At the very least, buy organic varieties of the below worst offenders cited by The Environmental Working Group for high pesticide content. Consider not only the raw form in the organic variety, but also juices, jellies and other preparations. Organic is only more expensive in the short run. Treating disease and illness can permanently ruin a household budget.
Worst Offenders:
- Peaches
- Apples
- Sweet Bell Peppers
- Celery
- Nectarines
- Strawberries
- Cherries
- Pears
- Grapes (Imported)
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Potatoes
2) Thoroughly wash all fruits are vegetables prior to consumption.
3) Reduce residential pesticide exposure in your homes, lawns and gardens.
Here is a great tool available for free at Sittercity.com. Just type in a few details and a calculator will inform you what the average rate for a sitter is in your neighborhood.
Sittercity recently conducted a survey and found that following cities were the best places to locate a babysitter based on affordable rates and large applicant pool (site based).
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Decline In US Circumcision Rate
US Circumcision rates fell from 56% in 2006 to 33% in 2009.
Ousted Breastfeeding Woman Sues
One breastfeeding momma in New York, is filing a civil rights suit against a Manhattan cafe. Earlier this year, cafe management had asked the woman to stop nursing her infant. When she refused she was allegedly told to leave and banned from returning to the eatery. New York law is clearly on the woman’s side as it states ” “A mother may breast feed her baby in any location, public or private, where the mother is otherwise authorized to be, irrespective of whether or not the nipple of the mother’s breast is covered during or incidental to the breast feeding,”
The Mystery And Miracle Of Breast Milk
Mother Nature releases another clue about the amazing properties of breast milk.
What fun! Michaels, the arts & crafts store, is holding a series of in-store workshops just for baby. From August 29 – September 4 participants will learn how to create adorable and memorable gifts for baby costing $8 or less. All US and Canadian stores will present the workshops.
Sunday, August 29 (1 – 3 p.m.): Baby Room Decor – Personalize baby’s room with unique, handmade baby decor that also makes a great shower gift. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of clay pots and blocks.
- Tuesday, August 31 (6 – 8 p.m.): Yarn Baby Shower Bag – Add a whimsical, personal touch to a shower gift with a handmade yarn chick. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of bag.
- Wednesday, September 1 (6 – 8 p.m.): Welcome Home Paper Bag Book – Create the perfect keepsake for baby with a personalized memory book. Documents baby’s “firsts” to share for years to come. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of ribbon.
- Thursday, September 2 (6 – 8 p.m.): Time Capsule Keepsakes – Celebrate baby now and forever with a handcrafted time capsule keepsake. Seal it tight to treasure at a later date. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of pail.
- Friday, September 3 (6 – 8 p.m.): Hospital Door Plaque – Welcome baby with a customized hospital door plaque. This special gift will be a great room identifier at the hospital and the perfect embellishment in the nursery. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of wood plaque and embellishments.
- Saturday, September 4 (1 – 3 p.m.): Big Brother/Big Sister Welcome Home Canvas – A special “welcome home” canvas from big brother or big sister is a sweet gesture that’s sure to be cherished forever. Cost: Free supplies with purchase of canvas. Ages 3 and up welcome.
iGo Potty
The Pull-Ups brand has developed a free iPhone app for potty training available at the iTunes App Store. Patty The Potty will send your child potty call reminders throughout the day. Digital rewards, such as stickers and games, make your child’s progress fun.
Celebrity Cradle:
Actor Orlando Bloom’s wife, model Miranda Kerr, has announced that she is four months pregnant.
and a
Actress Ali Larter is expecting a baby boy
plus, more Duggar Family Drama
Routine: The Key To Less Anxious Children
A University of Pittsburgh study has determined that one month old babies who were engaged in predictable and consistent schedules for sleeping, eating, changing and playing — demonstrated less anxiety at 10 years of age. This blueprint for relaxation is believed to have both biological and sociological roots.
Baby Monitors Recalled
Levana Wireless Video Baby Monitors have been recalled due to overheating hazards. Click Here , for more info.
Great Breastfeeding Tips & Encouragement
From CBS News a video piece on breastfeeding basics, benefits and helpful products.
The latest trend for tiny hipsters.
DELIGHTFUL DELIVERIES:
PRODUCT SCOOP:
Little Duck Organics: Tiny Organic Snacks For Tiny Fingers
Oh, I wish I had discovered these before our road trips this summer! These are bite sized dehydrated fruit snacks which are free of added sugar, preservatives, and artificial colors. Plus, they are gluten-free, organic and Non-GMO….Yum! Delicious Combos of Blueberry-Apple, Strawberry -Mango, and Apple-Banana are available at Amazon, Diapers.com and now at select Whole Foods.
CELEBRITY CRADLE:
Halle “Blueberries” On Family-
The 44 year old elegantly graces the cover of Vogue’s September issue and shares thoughts with readers on her breakup from boyfriend Gabriel Aubry, father to her two year old daughter. “It’s just that you realize you are not meant to go the distance with everybody,” Berry said. “We were meant to bring this amazing little person into the world. And I think that’s why we came together. And because of that, we are going to be together, forever, all three of us. We are a family until we are not here anymore. ” Overall, a truly fascinating article with an adorable story about daughter Nahla, thoughts about motherhood and how Nature got fertility wrong.
The actress tells USA today that her household sounds like a Justin Timberlake Concert!
Melissa Joan Hart fesses up about her eldest son’s first words.
Stork Alert:
You oughta know that a baby is on the way for pop singer Alanis Morrisette. It’s tossed salads, scrambled eggs and baby booties for former Frasier star Kelsey Grammer and his new love. And, Rod Stewart continues his infatuation with tiny feet—the 65 year old rocker is expecting his 5th child .
Our C has turned out to be a little Road Star. We just recently returned from visiting family. I had some anxiety about transporting this tyke, but he proved his momma wrong and was quite at ease during our treks. Our little vacations were great, but it is good to be home.
I hope that you all are enjoying these last weeks of summer and finding time to play in the sun.
August is designated as National Breastfeeding Month. Breastfeeding is a very personal decision. I believe that every caring mom knows what is instinctively best for her child. A loving mom that nourishes her baby with formula should not be criticized for not nourishing with the breast. There are many reasons why a mother may opt for formula. I really think that the attacks against mothers from both camps, breast vs. bottle, need to cease. Collectively we are all in the same boat: mothers trying to raise our children in a bustling 21st century world.
Personally, I am huge fan of breastfeeding. I went into the process only with book knowledge and was unprepared for the many challenges that I would face. It took a lot of perseverance. But the rewards have been many and I count the experience as one of the most beautiful periods in my life.
If you are considering breastfeeding, I highly suggest that you do web/book research, befriend other breastfeeding mothers, find a lactation consultant or get familiar with the ladies at your local La Leche League before the birth of your baby. You will need the roster of information and and a ready support system. Also, do not assume that your pediatrician will be a source of reliable information or even supportive of your breastfeeding efforts. The science of breastfeeding is glossed over in medical school. Additionally, the pediatric establishment is bombarded by financial incentives from the formula industry. At the FIRST sign of trouble, seek the help of a certified lactation consultant or a La Leche League representative. The majority of complications can be easily corrected with professional guidance.
It also helps to develop a thick “outer skin” when you make the decision to breastfeed. Family, friends and pure strangers often will not be shy about their disapproval. My MIL refers to my son’s breastfeeding as “a bad habit”. Know the reasons in your heart why you believe breastfeeding is the right decision for you and your child. They are your breasts and it’s your child. Nurse Onward.
Here is a beautiful adaptation of “101 Reasons To Breastfeed” set to music and lovely imagery that I came across recently. Enjoy.
The Center For Bioethics And Culture has just released a revealing and shocking documentary titled “Eggsploitation”. The documentary is an exploration into the largely unregulated multi-billion-dollar human egg trade conducted by the infertility industry. The film is a must see for any women contemplating egg donation or an individual/couple considering utilizing donor eggs.
The infertility industry is known to troll college campuses soliciting eggs from intelligent and attractive young women. Hooked by the altruistic concept that they are participating in a noble endeavor and further lured by large sums of money – –many women enter into the donation process falsely assured of safety. However, the acquisition techniques are inherently risky. This truth is articulately recounted by the three women highlighted in the film as they share their fates of subsequent infertility, emotional trauma, stroke, and breast cancer amongst other ailments. The film is a clarion call to stir public awareness and the adoption of protective legislation to oversee the rights of donor, recipient, and resultant offspring.
The amazing advancements in assisted reproductive technologies have brought miracle babies to many families. But, I can’t imagine that any family would condone the horrible truths that are are a part of this industry. Reform, internally and externally, is desperately needed to protect women. One woman’s joy should not cause another woman’s anguish.
Here is a preview of the documentary:
For more information,click here.
When Adele Enersen, a Finnish mom, was on maternity leave she pondered where her little one ventured in her states of sweet and serene sleep. Here is a sampling of some of Mila’s adventures in slumber— as envisioned by her mom:
For more of Mila’s adventures, click here.
Amazing Dedication! A 100 Year Old Baby Doc.
Outrage! Newborn “Stolen” From Family
Gosh, I just want to cry for this family. Thank goodness that common sense finally prevailed and this sweet baby is back where she belongs. What a cutie pie.
A mother’s tale of her infant’s struggle with Silent Reflux.
Nigerian Couple Welcomes A Mysterious Daughter
In the words of Michael Jackson:
“I Said If
You’re Thinkin’ Of
Being My Baby
It Don’t Matter If You’re Black Or White”
Essays on Motherhood:
The Joy and Pain Of Motherhood
New Products:
GoCrib
Guava Family introduces the new GoCrib: A standard portable that fits in a backpack! “Designed for parents sick of their bulky port-a-cribs, the GoCrib finally corrects the obvious flaws in portable crib design families have dealt with for years and addresses the need to create a fun and safe place for your baby and preschooler at home, while traveling, and everywhere in between,” said Guava Family President Scott Crumrine. Wow, this is ultra cool! And, not a pain to tote like our large Pack n Play. Visit the Guava Family website for a video demonstration and more information, click here. 
Johnson’s has launched a new line of baby care products called Johnson’s Naturals. The ingredients are naturally derived from fruits and plants. Promising an affordable price point, the new green line features Baby Lotion, a 3-in-1 Kids Shampoo, and a Conditioner & Body Wash. The products will be available at mass retailers.
Celebrity Cradle:
Gwyneth Paltrow Opens Up About Postpartum Depression
The actress writes in her newsletter, Goop, about her personal struggle with Postpartum Depression after the birth of her second child. The newsletter also includes an intimate and poignant essay by actress, Bryce Dallas Howard, on her ordeal with postpartum depression. Plus, a medical overview of the debilitating condition by Dr. Karen Binder-Byrnes.
Christina Applegate is on her way to being married with children.
Heroes star Ali Larter confirmed this week that she and hubby,Hayes MacArthur, are expecting their first child.
Dennis Quaid chillingly recounts to AARP Magazine about the worst day of his life: the near deadly accidental overdosing of his newborn twins at a Los Angeles Hospital. Miraculously, the twins recovered. Since the harrowing ordeal, the Quaid’s have made dedicated efforts to reform the health-care system in an attempt to reduce and eradicate medical errors.
Enter code IPLAY15 to get 15% off Sun Protection Flap Hats by Iplay (UPF 50+).
A new public cord-blood donation system is in operation. The Public Kit Donation Program now allows parents to participate in banking, regardless of where they live in the US, by mail. The kit is free. A donation qualifies donors to be included in the “Be The Match” program of the national cord blood registry should they ever require treatment. Thus, unlike private cord-blood programs your child’s specimen is considered a “gift ” to the overall community at need. Think blood bank. So while you do not have claim to your child’s individual cord-blood, your child would have access to whatever matches exist if/when there was ever a need. For those families who can’t afford the thousands of dollars necessary to participate in private cord-blood retrieval and storage, the public option is a promising alternative. Many people believe that stem cells will usher in amazing breakthroughs in the care or eradication of such diseases as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Read more details at Time Magazine by clicking the above link or view their below video.
Even with flexible hours and free summers, a new study shows that working mothers in academia still have a tough time balancing work and family just like other working moms. Female faculty rates have doubled in the last 24 years, yet only 43% of women professors have tenure compared to 61% of male professors. Is the “mommy track” to blame?
Tranquil or bold, classic or modern, perhaps classic pink or blue ? Here are some great nursery design ideas from HGTV.com for you!
Gucci hopes to go goo goo gaga all the way to the piggy bank, as it joins the ranks of design houses launching luxury fashion to the diaper pack.
Hallmark.com Launches New Online Baby Stationary Line
Hallmark, the greeting card experts, have just launched a new online personalized baby stationary division featuring announcements, shower invitations and thank you notes. Hallmark states” “New parents are already so busy taking care of baby, we wanted to make it as easy as possible for them share their good news with others. From the convenience of a computer and the comfort of their PJ’s, parents can personalize one of our new announcements, invites or thank-you cards on hallmark.com, and we’ll address, stamp, and mail them.”
Recently, the Tots In Mind version of a play yard tent was placed under a repair recall. However, The Consumer Product Safety Commission, is concerned that ALL similar products whether for a play yard or a crib could present a similar suffocation/entrapment hazard. Parents are urged to monitor their children while the tents are in use. As a precaution, parents observing any signs of structural wear and tear warrant should replace the unit. Additionally, only the approved and supplied hardware sold with the tent to clamp it to the crib or play yard should be utilized.
Celebrity Cradle:
Mario Lopez will star alongside his expectant girlfriend, Courtney Mazza, in a new reality show on VH1 this fall. Cameras will follow the two as they prepare for the birth of their first child and later adjust to the realities of new parenthood. Network Executive, Jeff Olde states ” Our audience has grown up with Mario. They have watched him go from a kid in a fictional high-school to a man who has succeeded in many different facets in the TV business. We’re thrilled that we get to be a part of his next transition into fatherhood,”
It looks like actor Vince Vaughn will be crashing his local maternity Ward. He and his wife Kyla Weber are expecting their first child.
“Late, Late Show” host Craig Ferguson and his wife, Megan Wallace Cunningham, are expecting another child. He humorously tweeted “Holy crackers! Mrs F is pregnant. How did that happen?” and then, “Oh yeah I know how. Another Ferguson arrives in 2011. The world trembles.”
WinPrizesOnline: Sweepstakes
US Gov Set To Ban Drop Side Cribs
The US Government, via the Consumer Product Safety Commission, is finalizing rules that would officially ban drop side cribs in stores, hotels and day care centers. The proposed changes would not take place until 2011. Recently, a Pottery Barn recall of 82,000 cribs, further increased the 2010 record recall tally of drop side cribs from multiple manufacturers. Drop side cribs have been responsible for incidents of suffocation and entrapment of infants and toddlers due to faulty hardware.
Teaspoon & Tablespoon Overdose Risk
Due to variations in the holding capacity of many kitchen spoons, parents are being warned not to administer medications in this manner to children. Instead, parents should use specialized cups, spoons or syringes with printed measurements. Not doing so could lead to too much or too little medication.
Tips from Dr. Harvey Karp on how to lull your baby to sleep.
Writer, Sharon Nesbit-Davis, shares when she knew it was time to wean to her son.
Nice Article reminding us that fathers-to be and new dads need TLC too!
Retailer Fashion 21 has launched a new maternity line called Love 21. Hopefully, they expand their “Maternity Essentials” section with something other than one belly panel and 5 handbags. But the rest of the line is cute in a Forever 21 kind of way.
It’s a Pregnancy Party!
Thanks to Karen for this great info.
The Family Bed vs. The Crib: The Safety Debate Continues
With the rash of crib recalls over the last three years, it is perplexing to me that co-sleeping is so harshly labeled as dangerous. Recalls aside, even the crib environment requires an education on how to keep an infant safe. Thus, it seems like a comprehensive acknowledgment of the rules of co-sleeping should also be promoted via governmental agencies and the pediatric establishment . Sleeping arrangements are unique to particular family environments. It seems unlikely to me that ions of human history are going to be reversed and that co-sleeping will outright disappear from the parenting routine. It was great to see James McKenna, a great advocate of the benefits of co-sleeping, quoted in this article. McKenna runs the Mother Baby Behavioral Sleep Laboratory at Note Dame. His work is truly fascinating. Find informative articles and videos about co-sleeping at his site: Click Here
Interesting essay chronicling the historical approach to potty training in the United States. I have to agree with the author that there is a huge economic incentive to the disposable diaper manufacturers in delaying potty training. More parents and pediatricians need to be convinced that babies and toddlers are capable of learning at a younger stage than currently practiced.
Learn more about Elimination Communication here .
Happy Parents Clap Your Hands!
Tips (and reminders)to take care of yourself while caring for your baby.
Celebrity Cradle
That is… a helicopter ride! Look at those cute “ear muffs”.
Melissa Joan Hart Talks About Mommyhood
It seems that her little ones have cast a spell on her heart.
Celine Dion has confirmed that her expected twins are baby boys.
Pop Star Dannii Minogue tweets the first public pic of newborn son Ethan.
Are prenatal educational devices harmful or effective? ABC’s Nightline explores the questionable growing market to educate the unborn.
Moms & Babes In Need Of Support
Prayers And Help Needed For Baby Anya
Justice And Help Needed For Baby Vanessa
Which “parenting gang” do you run with? A funny essay from Salon.com by writer Peter Birkenhead on the competitiveness and combativeness within the parenthood.
From The Name Game Files:
“No, You Can’t Name Your Baby That!”
Are you sporting a cute baby bump or know a momma-to be with one? Then it is time to enter World Baby Report’s latest contest. One lucky momma-to-be will win a $25 gift card to Motherhood Maternity: The place to shop for fabulous maternity fashion at affordable prices.
To Play: Earn a maximum of two entries, per person, via the following methods:
Create Community: Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Twitter
or
Create Conversation: Leave a multi-sentence remark,rave, rant, review or reminiscence about something you read on World Baby Report other than this contest post. Comments such as”nice post” and “great story” and the like will not qualify.Post your comment, as allowed, on the original World Baby Report posting and not this contest announcement post.
Other Stuff To Know:
The contest will run from 7/5 – 8/5 . Only entry methods detailed above and adhering to the above guidelines will be accepted. The winning entrant will be chosen by random. Winner will be contacted via email. The winning entrant will have two weeks to respond to such email and claim their prize. Failure to respond within stated period will result in forfeiture of prize and an alternate winner will be chosen.
Good luck to all!
Psst… Motherhood Maternity is having a a huge summer sale !!
Mini IVF: Offering Women An Alternative To Traditional IVF
For women facing fertility challenges Mini IVF is another avenue to explore in the quest to conceive. Mini IVF harvests a smaller amount of eggs —but of higher quality. The procedure is minimally invasive and most women feel little pain. Further benefits are that large doses of hormones are not necessary. Physiologically, this leads to less dramatic hormonal swings and a reduction in the threat of over stimulating the ovaries. The procedure is also more economical as the need for prescribed fertility drugs is at a lower threshold.
Controversial Breastfeeding Remark
Recently, Kathyrn Blundell the deputy editor of a leading UK parenting magazine wrote that she felt the act of breastfeeding was a “a little creepy”. After a global- momma -uproar she recanted and suggested that her musings on her breasts and babies were mere hyperbole — a simple joke. And, in classic PR recovery mode the parenting advisor later applauded breastfeeding.
I don’t buy her explanation. Even in jest, I would never associate anything about my child or anything that I do for my child as “creepy”. Sweet, innocent, loving and pure….are just galaxies away from creepy. Personally, I think she has other issues pertaining to her motherhood that she needs to address.
Breastfeeding is not for everyone for a variety of reasons. This article from the Sun UK provides two contrasting perspectives on breastfeeding. I can respect these featured mothers for their honesty and serious examination of the issues.
Here is an informative article, from the University of Maine, covering all aspects of making your your own baby food. Learn about which foods to feed, safe preparation, utensils needed, storage advice, heating tips and recipe ideas.
Pampers has teamed up with designer Cynthia Rowley to create a new line of designer diapers to be sold exclusively by Target. Tiny bottoms can soon be diapered in 11 pastel styles such as madras plaid, stripes and ruffles. Okay, kinda cute. And, perhaps a sign that economy is picking up…? No mention of price here, but I am assuming that these are a just a wee bit more than the standard utilitarian white diaper.
Pregnancy R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Here a few side stories about pregnancy discrimination in the news and moms seeking respect and justice via the legal system:
The FORCE Is on The Side Of Justice
Pregnancy discrimination unfortunately is still common in the workplace. Learn about your rights, click here.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis) On The Rise
Cases of whooping cough are higher than normal this year across the United States. California, thus far, has registered the most cases.
Childhood Diabetes Linked To Maternal Blood Sugar During Gestation
Researchers, at the University of Alabama, have found evidence that type 2 diabetes in children can be caused by high sugar levels in the maternal blood stream during pregnancy. Paula Chandler-Laney, Ph.D, co-author of the study states ” “Many other studies have shown that children from mothers with high blood sugar during pregnancy are at greater risk for Type 2 diabetes,” said Chandler-Laney. “Now, this study is the first to show that even for children who have not yet become diabetic, there are changes in the way the body secretes and responds to insulin following prenatal exposure to high maternal blood sugar.”
Kids, Cars & Summer: Take Precautions
As summer fun and the heat index simultaneously surge upward it’s a good reminder for us all to to heed this warning: children left unattended in hot cars can lead to death. Spread the word and be on the alert. From the beaches, to the parks and the shopping malls stop and take a quick look around. Of course, be vigilant of your own children. But, also fear for that “stranger’s” child in a parking lot and report any abandonments. And, if you go to visit a friend or relative lock your car and roll up all windows so that other youngsters do not hide or play in your car. You could be saving a life and preventing heartbreak.
Dangers Of Online Breast Milk Sales
Interesting article about the rise in online breast milk sales and the inherent dangers to infants. The safest option is to purchase human milk through a registered milk bank.
A Salon.com writer and her husband share a meal family style.
Mom, Keep Your Kids Safe Online with SafetyWeb! Use Discount Code SAFEKIDS for 30% off.
Celebrity Cradle:
Larry Birkhead Shares News About Dannielynn
In an OK Magazine exclusive, Larry Birkhead discusses parenting three year old Dannielynn. He seems liking a doting dad to me. Anna Nicole would be proud of her little girl.
Breastfeeding mom, Padma Lakshi, credits the daring and delicious dishes on Top Chef for gifting daughter Krishna with a “great palate”.
Pop superstar Alicia Keys’ unborn baby was blessed in a traditional Zulu ceremony. The honor was bestowed on the musical mom-to-be and baby in gratitude for her charity work in Africa with children. How cool.
Kourtney Defends Public Breastfeeding
While Kim Kardashian takes a ‘yuck”approach to public breastfeeding, her breastfeeding sister Kourtney adopts a more more evolved attitude. She blogs ” Don’t look if you don’t like it”. Right on Kourtney! And Kim, considering the cleavage that you regularly reveal to the world…do you really expect us to believe that you are scared of a little booby?
More cribs are being recalled. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairwomen, Inez Tenenbaum states “This new recall announcement is part of a larger effort by CPSC to clean up the marketplace. Many of these recalled cribs have dangerous drop sides.”
For detailed information on the latest recall visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website, Click Here.
Weight Gain Key in Twin Pregnancies
Gaining less than the recommended weight for a twin pregnancy could result in a premature birth and/or smaller babies.
Obtain a free PDF report on proper weight gain guidelines for singleton or multiple pregnancies from the Institute of Medicine: Click Here.
Birthing Methods Impact Infant’s First Bacteria
Researchers have reported that babies born via cesareans harbor different first bacteria colonies than their vaginally born counterparts. The difference may explain why some c-section infants are more prone to fall ill from certain pathogens, develop asthma or experience allergies.
“Am I Born Yet?…I’m Getting Bored, Mom. “
Amazing video of a fetus yawning. Plus an explanation of your little beans in-utero sleeping patterns.
Save up to 25% off Evenflo Baby Gear!
Indian Surrogacy: Is The Miracle Ethical?
Interesting video report from the BBC discussing the rise in India’s surrogacy business.
Texas Mom Delivers Her Daughter …Solo!
Wow, this woman is centered. What a blessing that all are safe.
Calling All little Mermaids And Merman
Adorable underwater photographs of babies in swim class.
High Lead Content In Drinks For Children
Very troubling. The Environmental Law Foundation has discovered that up to 85% of beverages intended for children are contaminated with lead levels above federal limits. Sometimes I just feel like I need my own livestock, garden and an orchard….on a major scale to keep my family safe.
For more detailed information visit The Environmental Law Foundation site: Click here
“Uh Oh” – A SpaghettiOs Recall
Three varieties of SpaghettiOs with meatballs have been recalled due to the meat being “under-processed”…..not very Franco American. More information is available via the above link to USDA site.
How does fatherhood change men?
Practical advice for keeping your peds comfy during your pregnancy journey.
Mom cited for breastfeeding while driving.
Venturing out on a true vacation this summer? If so, here are some helpful tips for traveling with your little ones.
A nice essay from the newly launched magazine, Children’s Health, presenting a the male perspective of what “Dad” needs from “Mom” to be a great father.
Celebrity Cradle:
Tony Parker Muses about Fatherhood
Hoop star discusses future family plans with Eva Longoria.
Sporty Mommas
Celebs in the sport world: marathoners Kara Goucher and Paula Radcliffe are both due in late September. The accomplished sportswomen still train and are preparing to make a postpartum return to the Olympics in 2012
Baby Harper Renn Joins The World
Congratulations to Tiffany Thiessen and her husband Brady Smith. The couple just welcome their first child into the world.
It’s been an exciting week for Sir Paul McCartney. Daughter Mary was married and daughter Stella just announced that she is due with a fourth child.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY
A beautiful Father’s Day to dads new and old. A collective thank you for frisbees thrown, bikes fixed and and ready answers to childhood queries of: “where”,”why”, “when” and “how”. A resounding applause for balancing tenderness and toughness. For leading our sons to a gentle manhood. For leading our daughters to a graceful womanhood. As their souls shine rejoice in knowing your daily sacrifices are not without sweet reward. You are loved.
Visit Celebrations.com for fantastic ways to celebrate the special dads in your life.
Chemical Flame Retardants Poisoning Our Babies
Here is a troubling article from Salon.com. It is estimated by the CDC that nearly 97% of Americans have traces of chemical flame retardants in their blood. The chemicals are positioned in a large variety of consumer products including those intended for infants. The chemical lobby conveniently claims that the chemical cocktails do more good than harm. However, private researchers continue to discover disturbing dangers. Brenda Eskenazi, director of Berkeley’s Center for Children’s Environmental Health Research states ” “With recent evidence that PBDEs are associated with infertility and impaired development in children, we should strive to minimize human exposure.”
Are flavored toddler formula drinks fueling future obesity?
Informative article on flying while pregnant.
The cost of bringing up “Baby” is now tallied to be $222,000. Oh, and that excludes college. Ouch…
A few weeks ago the media was awash with reports that fathers can experience postpartum depression,too. Here is an brutally honest article chronicling one fathers struggle to bond with his baby son and his altered marital state. I think that this is an important story. Our vision of “normalcy” is often clouded by perceptions of what the media wants us to believe family-hood is all about. The truth is that there are varying degrees of “normalcy” pertaining to how people undergo the metamorphosis into a family. It can be a challenge for many. With more light shined on the subject, perhaps the door can be opened to more thoughtful conversation instead of social stigma.
A plumber delivers his son on the bathroom floor.
Celebrity Cradle:
Desperate Housewife’s Baby Making Banned?
It seems that we will not soon be reporting a baby bump on Desperate Housewives star, Eva Longoria. The producers of the show have asked her to delay any plans to start a family with her basketball player hubby, Tony Parker.
Actress not partaking in adoption for the “trend”.
And
Model Kate Dillon Is Expecting!
The beautiful model is expecting her first baby. Now in her second trimester and experiencing cravings, she tells People Magazine ““I was a quinoa and kale type of person. Now all I want is pizza, bagels and cream cheese!” Gotta love those cravings
Health-Care Reform Act Aims To Assist Mothers and Babies
Ranging from mandatory prenatal care coverage, to folic acid supplements, workplace breastfeeding “rooms” and new parenting counseling —-the newly passed health care legislation aims to achieve better health in mothers and their babies.
Thinking About How Not To Leave A “Baby On Board”
Should the automobile industry install devices in vehicles to warn of children left behind?
Funny spoof on the Iron Man movie.
Interesting interview on Freedomain Radio with author Alison Gopnik regarding her book “The Philosophical Baby”. The book provides fascinating insight on how babies think and learn.
Celebrity Cradle:
Baby Josie Duggar finally gets to leave the hospital. Happy homecoming little one!
Tales of “double” wardrobe trouble.
Kelly Preston’s mom speaks about her daughter’s pregnant peaceful aura.
Battle of Celebrity Baby Bumps
A writer muses about the competing celebrity baby bump camps.
