Friday, April 26, 2013
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Baby's Ideal Diet
4 - 8 MONTHS OLD
In addition to 3-5 nursings or 24-32 oz add:
Breakfast:
2 Tbs. infant cereal
Lunch:
1-2 Tbs. infant cereal
2 Tbs. pureed fruits or veggies
Dinner:
1-2 Tbs. infant cereal
1-2 Tbs. pureed fruits or veggies
Food ideas: applesauce, ripe mangoes, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, squash, bananas, ripe apricots.
8 - 11 MONTHS OLD
In addition to 3-5 nursings or 24-32 oz add:
Breakfast:
2-3 Tbs. infant cereal
1 Tbs. fruit
2-3 Tbs. infant cereal
2 Tbs. pureed fruits
1 Tbs. finger food
Dinner:
2 Tbs. pureed veggies
1-2 Tbs. pureed meat
1 Tbs. finger food
Food ideas: finely diced kiwifruit, bananas, ripe peaches, watermelon, very ripe pears, cantaloupe, whole-grain cereal, avocado, cooked and finely diced squash, tiny pieces of pineapple, cooked sweet potatoes.
FOODS TO AVOID until baby is 1:
- Cow's milk: they can't digest it.
- Peanut butter: choking hazard.
- Honey: causes botulism.
- Round foods (like blackberries): can get stuck in baby's windpipe.
- Raw veggies and dried fruits: choking hazards.
- Stringy foods: choking hazards.
Source: American Baby
Baby Food 101
I had a hard time knowing when to start my baby on baby food/rice cereal and it was overwhelming to read all of the articles online. After looking at different advice and tips, here is what I found out:
Can I add rice cereal to my baby's bottle?
No! Your baby doesn't need the extra calories and a new study has come out saying that cereal-thickened formula can make babies gag and inhale the liquid into their lungs.
Should rice cereal be the first thing to introduce my baby to?
In the past people thought that babies should start with rice cereal but doctors say that it's fine to start your baby with pureed veggies or fruit.
When should I start my baby on baby food?
For most babies you can start solids around 4 - 6 months old. Make sure your baby can support his or her self and keep their head up independently before you start. (Ashely Hotle, pediatric dietitian at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital)
What should I do if my baby doesn't seem to like a certain food?
Keep trying! Offer the food one bite every day for a week. 85% of babies eventually enjoy the taste of a new food. (Alan Greene, clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford)
Should I feed my baby the veggies before the fruit?
Not necessarily. In the past a lot of people thought that if you fed the baby fruit first then he/she wouldn't eat the veggies but there's no evidence to that theory.
When should I try new flavors of baby food for my baby?
Your baby can learn to like almost any food from 6 to 12 months (from the time he/she starts solids). If you start introducing your baby to new foods at the beginning then they have a larger variety that they like when they get to the picky stage (around 2 or 3 years old). You can even try some pureed seasoned ravioli to spice things up. When your baby is 10 months old you can get even more adventurous!
How can I help reduce the risk of by baby spitting up the food?
When babies sit up at a 90º angle it will help strengthen the neck and head muscles, relieve pressure on the stomach, and help reduce spit up.
What should and shouldn't I feed my baby if he/she is under 1 year old?
Fish is actually safe for babies 6 months and older! Just make sure you mash it up really good and choose fish that is low in mercury (salmon or mahi mahi). You probably already know this but you need to avoid feeding your baby honey. Why? Clostridium bacteria can contaminate honey, especially, and cause infant botulism. Infant botulism can cause muscle weakness, with signs like poor sucking, a weak cry, constipation, and an overall decreased muscle ton/floppiness (KidsHealth.org). When kids get older they can handle the bacteria better.
Can my baby eat meat?
Yes! As long as you puree your red meat or poultry to a thin consistency then go right ahead! Studies actually show that children who eat meat earlier in life have higher intakes of zinc and iron which are essential nutrients for growth.
* Final Tip:
Make sure that you are eating healthy foods so that your baby wants to eat what you are eating. If you are eating greasy fries or ice cream then your baby will be fussy if you don't offer him/her some. Your baby will be more interested in eating what's on his/her plate if it's the same as yours! But don't let that stop you from your once or twice a month date with Ben & Jerry's ice cream when you have a craving!
Can I add rice cereal to my baby's bottle?
No! Your baby doesn't need the extra calories and a new study has come out saying that cereal-thickened formula can make babies gag and inhale the liquid into their lungs.
Should rice cereal be the first thing to introduce my baby to?
In the past people thought that babies should start with rice cereal but doctors say that it's fine to start your baby with pureed veggies or fruit.
When should I start my baby on baby food?
For most babies you can start solids around 4 - 6 months old. Make sure your baby can support his or her self and keep their head up independently before you start. (Ashely Hotle, pediatric dietitian at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital)
What should I do if my baby doesn't seem to like a certain food?
Keep trying! Offer the food one bite every day for a week. 85% of babies eventually enjoy the taste of a new food. (Alan Greene, clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford)
Should I feed my baby the veggies before the fruit?
Not necessarily. In the past a lot of people thought that if you fed the baby fruit first then he/she wouldn't eat the veggies but there's no evidence to that theory.
When should I try new flavors of baby food for my baby?
Your baby can learn to like almost any food from 6 to 12 months (from the time he/she starts solids). If you start introducing your baby to new foods at the beginning then they have a larger variety that they like when they get to the picky stage (around 2 or 3 years old). You can even try some pureed seasoned ravioli to spice things up. When your baby is 10 months old you can get even more adventurous!
How can I help reduce the risk of by baby spitting up the food?
When babies sit up at a 90º angle it will help strengthen the neck and head muscles, relieve pressure on the stomach, and help reduce spit up.
What should and shouldn't I feed my baby if he/she is under 1 year old?
Fish is actually safe for babies 6 months and older! Just make sure you mash it up really good and choose fish that is low in mercury (salmon or mahi mahi). You probably already know this but you need to avoid feeding your baby honey. Why? Clostridium bacteria can contaminate honey, especially, and cause infant botulism. Infant botulism can cause muscle weakness, with signs like poor sucking, a weak cry, constipation, and an overall decreased muscle ton/floppiness (KidsHealth.org). When kids get older they can handle the bacteria better.
Can my baby eat meat?
Yes! As long as you puree your red meat or poultry to a thin consistency then go right ahead! Studies actually show that children who eat meat earlier in life have higher intakes of zinc and iron which are essential nutrients for growth.
* Final Tip:
Make sure that you are eating healthy foods so that your baby wants to eat what you are eating. If you are eating greasy fries or ice cream then your baby will be fussy if you don't offer him/her some. Your baby will be more interested in eating what's on his/her plate if it's the same as yours! But don't let that stop you from your once or twice a month date with Ben & Jerry's ice cream when you have a craving!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
HOW TO Pinch Your Pennies
Let's face it, having a baby is not cheap. There are so many little (and big) expenses that really add up. If you are like me, it can be a little overwhelming to think about everything you need to buy. I wanted to have the perfect nursery that was decorated just right but we didn't have the money to buy everything I wanted. Being a penny pincher motivated me to find whatever ways I could to save money but still get the cute nursery that I had dreamed of. Here are my top 5 tips that helped me save money:
1) BUY USED & REDO!
Buying something used and redoing it is a great way to have the perfect color/pattern/size for your baby's nursery but it also saves you a lot of money! I had a white dresser pictured in my mind for the nursery but didn't have the money. I couldn't find a dresser for less than $200 or $300 (and that's on the cheap end) on the internet or in stores. After buying it used and redoing it, I had the perfect dresser for less than half the price. (Click the link for my Buy Used & Redo post to see the dresser that my husband and I redid and to get tips on redoing your own dresser) Another easy but cute thing to redo is an old lamp. I bought an old lamp from my local thrift store (DI) and just added cute fabric and trim to the shade. You can also spray paint the actual lamp to match your nursery. Quick and easy but it adds a lot to a nursery!
2) DIY PROJECTS
Nursery decorations are really expensive and I had a hard time finding exactly what I pictured/what I wanted. The great thing about DIY (do it yourself) projects is that you can customize the color/pattern/size of your decoration and it is WAY cheaper. Here is a little project I did that I found on Pinterest. It was really easy to do but added a cute little decoration. (If anyone would like the tutorial then send me a message and I will send you the link)
If you haven't been on the famous Pinterest then allow me to introduce you to this amazing tool! It has hundreds of DIY projects just waiting to be created. You can just type "DIY nursery" in the search bar and it will come up with hundreds of ideas. Have fun and be creative!
3) BUY USED/GENTLY USED
You can buy most things used for the nursery. Dressers, lamps, bedding (wash really good), and even car seats and cribs. The thing about car seats and cribs is that you need to be careful in buying used.
- Car seats have an expiration date (usually 5 to 10 years after the manufacture date) so if you buy used, make sure that it isn't expired or that it hasn't been in any accidents. It is your child's safety on the line so be picky with the safety!
- Cribs. Buying a used crib from a thrift store, yard sale, or neighbor can save you a lot a money. Just make sure that the crib doesn't have any paint chips and doesn't have a drop down side. There is a lot of controversy with this but from the research I did suggests that drop down side cribs are dangerous. You can read more about it here: http://babyproducts.about.com/od/sleepbedding/a/drop_side_cribs_safety.htm
- Baby Clothes/Shoes. Definitely ok to buy these used! Babies go through clothes so fast so it's likely that the clothes you buy have only been used a couple times. Just make sure you wash them really good. It also helps to buy them from someone you know, if possible.
4) LOOK FOR DEALS/PROMOTIONS/COUPONS
I tried to find any possible way to save more money when I had to buy something for the nursery. Most websites have promotion codes for 10% or 20% off or free shipping. This can save you a lot of money! I saved 20% on my diaper bag through a promo code. I also signed up for a Target credit card to get 15% off my crib AND got free shipping. Take the time to look for promo codes online because they could really help you save. Another tip: always buy with a coupon! Stores ALWAYS have coupons out and when you are making a big purchase, 10% or 20% off can make a big difference.
Click here to check out my post on FREE nursing covers, car seat covers, diaper bags, etc. for mothers.
5) STICK TO THE BASICS
Let's be honest, your baby won't remember the brand of clothes it is wearing or that you didn't buy the expensive furniture set for the nursery. If you are struggling to buy all the things you want, stick to the basics and add more little things as you can. Click here for a list of basic items for the baby.
1) BUY USED & REDO!
Buying something used and redoing it is a great way to have the perfect color/pattern/size for your baby's nursery but it also saves you a lot of money! I had a white dresser pictured in my mind for the nursery but didn't have the money. I couldn't find a dresser for less than $200 or $300 (and that's on the cheap end) on the internet or in stores. After buying it used and redoing it, I had the perfect dresser for less than half the price. (Click the link for my Buy Used & Redo post to see the dresser that my husband and I redid and to get tips on redoing your own dresser) Another easy but cute thing to redo is an old lamp. I bought an old lamp from my local thrift store (DI) and just added cute fabric and trim to the shade. You can also spray paint the actual lamp to match your nursery. Quick and easy but it adds a lot to a nursery!
2) DIY PROJECTS
Nursery decorations are really expensive and I had a hard time finding exactly what I pictured/what I wanted. The great thing about DIY (do it yourself) projects is that you can customize the color/pattern/size of your decoration and it is WAY cheaper. Here is a little project I did that I found on Pinterest. It was really easy to do but added a cute little decoration. (If anyone would like the tutorial then send me a message and I will send you the link)
If you haven't been on the famous Pinterest then allow me to introduce you to this amazing tool! It has hundreds of DIY projects just waiting to be created. You can just type "DIY nursery" in the search bar and it will come up with hundreds of ideas. Have fun and be creative!
3) BUY USED/GENTLY USED
You can buy most things used for the nursery. Dressers, lamps, bedding (wash really good), and even car seats and cribs. The thing about car seats and cribs is that you need to be careful in buying used.
- Car seats have an expiration date (usually 5 to 10 years after the manufacture date) so if you buy used, make sure that it isn't expired or that it hasn't been in any accidents. It is your child's safety on the line so be picky with the safety!
- Cribs. Buying a used crib from a thrift store, yard sale, or neighbor can save you a lot a money. Just make sure that the crib doesn't have any paint chips and doesn't have a drop down side. There is a lot of controversy with this but from the research I did suggests that drop down side cribs are dangerous. You can read more about it here: http://babyproducts.about.com/od/sleepbedding/a/drop_side_cribs_safety.htm
- Baby Clothes/Shoes. Definitely ok to buy these used! Babies go through clothes so fast so it's likely that the clothes you buy have only been used a couple times. Just make sure you wash them really good. It also helps to buy them from someone you know, if possible.
4) LOOK FOR DEALS/PROMOTIONS/COUPONS
I tried to find any possible way to save more money when I had to buy something for the nursery. Most websites have promotion codes for 10% or 20% off or free shipping. This can save you a lot of money! I saved 20% on my diaper bag through a promo code. I also signed up for a Target credit card to get 15% off my crib AND got free shipping. Take the time to look for promo codes online because they could really help you save. Another tip: always buy with a coupon! Stores ALWAYS have coupons out and when you are making a big purchase, 10% or 20% off can make a big difference.
Click here to check out my post on FREE nursing covers, car seat covers, diaper bags, etc. for mothers.
5) STICK TO THE BASICS
Let's be honest, your baby won't remember the brand of clothes it is wearing or that you didn't buy the expensive furniture set for the nursery. If you are struggling to buy all the things you want, stick to the basics and add more little things as you can. Click here for a list of basic items for the baby.
Don't become overwhelmed, everything will work out. Remember that the most important thing you can give your baby is your attention and love.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Stick to the Basics
(From the post HOW TO Pinch Your Pennies)
Let's be honest, your baby won't remember the brand of clothes it is wearing or that you didn't buy the expensive furniture set for the nursery. If you are struggling to buy all the things you want, stick to the basics and add more little things as you can. Here is a list of things that I put together that I think are the basics:
Clothes
- Onesies (at least 5)
- Sleepers (about 5)
- A few outfits
- Socks (at least 4 pairs)
Furniture/Bedding
- Crib
- Mattress
- Fitted sheets (at least 2)
- Dresser
- Changing pad (if you have a dresser) or changing table
Changing
- Diapers and wipes
- Desitin/baby powder
- Baby lotion/wash
Etc.
- Blankets (a couple to lay on and a couple to swaddle)
- Spit up rags (at least 5)
- Diaper bag or oversize purse
Let's be honest, your baby won't remember the brand of clothes it is wearing or that you didn't buy the expensive furniture set for the nursery. If you are struggling to buy all the things you want, stick to the basics and add more little things as you can. Here is a list of things that I put together that I think are the basics:
Clothes
- Onesies (at least 5)
- Sleepers (about 5)
- A few outfits
- Socks (at least 4 pairs)
Furniture/Bedding
- Crib
- Mattress
- Fitted sheets (at least 2)
- Dresser
- Changing pad (if you have a dresser) or changing table
Changing
- Diapers and wipes
- Desitin/baby powder
- Baby lotion/wash
Etc.
- Blankets (a couple to lay on and a couple to swaddle)
- Spit up rags (at least 5)
- Diaper bag or oversize purse
Buy Used & Redo
(From the post HOW TO Pinch Your Pennies)
I had my heart set on a white dresser but dressers are SO expensive! I looked everywhere online and in stores but couldn't find one that didn't cost less than $200 - $300. My plan was to buy a used dresser and redo it to be the white dresser that I pictured. My husband was the one that redid it and he did a great job. We definitely saved over half the price by redoing it ourselves!
Plan of Action:
Go to your local thrift store (ex: DI, Savers, KSL, or Craigslist) or plan time with the hubby to go yard sale shopping to find an old dresser (go get frozen yogurt or ice cream afterward and make it a date!). The next step is to buy a can of spray paint in the color you want your dresser* (see note below) or buy stain if you want to spend a little extra for a nicer option. Throw on some new handles for the dresser and VOILA...your "new" dresser that looks exactly the way you want it. Another way to save money on your nursery furniture is to buy a changing pad to put on top of your dresser. This way you don't need to buy a separate changing table. (For more penny pinching tips, read my HOW TO Pinch Your Pennies post) Have fun and be creative to make whatever dresser your heart desires!
*Make sure you have a mask or have your hubby/friend spray paint it so you don't inhale the fumes. The fumes are dangerous for your baby.
I had my heart set on a white dresser but dressers are SO expensive! I looked everywhere online and in stores but couldn't find one that didn't cost less than $200 - $300. My plan was to buy a used dresser and redo it to be the white dresser that I pictured. My husband was the one that redid it and he did a great job. We definitely saved over half the price by redoing it ourselves!
Plan of Action:
Go to your local thrift store (ex: DI, Savers, KSL, or Craigslist) or plan time with the hubby to go yard sale shopping to find an old dresser (go get frozen yogurt or ice cream afterward and make it a date!). The next step is to buy a can of spray paint in the color you want your dresser* (see note below) or buy stain if you want to spend a little extra for a nicer option. Throw on some new handles for the dresser and VOILA...your "new" dresser that looks exactly the way you want it. Another way to save money on your nursery furniture is to buy a changing pad to put on top of your dresser. This way you don't need to buy a separate changing table. (For more penny pinching tips, read my HOW TO Pinch Your Pennies post) Have fun and be creative to make whatever dresser your heart desires!
*Make sure you have a mask or have your hubby/friend spray paint it so you don't inhale the fumes. The fumes are dangerous for your baby.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Baby Monitor
I admit that baby monitors aren't absolutely essential, especially if you live in a small apartment like me. But if you are a worry wort like me, they are very much needed for your peace of mind. I am starting my baby girl's sleep training this week which means it's time to have her sleep in her crib. Thinking about her not sleeping right next to me in the co-sleeper makes me nervous so a baby monitor was a must for us. There are two types of monitors: sound and video. My problem was that I wanted the price of a sound monitor but the qualities of a video monitor. I didn't just want to hear when she started crying, I wanted to see WHY she was crying. If it was just a binky that fell out of her tired mouth for the 5th time, then I wouldn't need to run in there. But if the blanket was over her head or something like that, I could see the problem. Sound monitors run anywhere from $40 - $75 while video monitors run from around $150 and up. After doing quite a bit of research I found a video monitor with really good reviews that looked perfect for us. It's called "Infant Optics DXR-5 2.4 GHz Digital Video Baby Monitor with Night Vision" - elaborate title, I know.
Let me assure you that the price tag was the selling point for me, not the fancy name. It
is usually $299 but Amazon has it for $99. But that's not the best
part. If you sign up for Amazon Mom here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/mom/signup/info then you get free 2-day shipping! The monitor has an 800-foot wireless range, night vision, easy set up, and 1 year warranty.
FREE SHIPPING + LOW PRICE + GREAT REVIEWS = Our perfect monitor with less stress for mom. Good luck!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Encouraging Word of the Week
I love this quote and hope it helps you feel more confident in your role
to be a mother. Remember, this is what you are made for.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Diaper Bag Review
Finding a diaper bag is harder than you think! After all, you need a bag that is cute enough to carry everywhere you go but one that is functional enough to actually use. I looked at Target, Walmart, Babies R Us, JCPenney, and other stores in the mall but couldn't find one that I thought was cute. After all, your diaper bag becomes your purse once you have a baby so you need a cute one! Here is my criteria for a diaper bag:
- Stylish (so I'll want to carry it around everywhere)
- Doesn't cost an arm and a leg
- Lots of organizational pockets and space
- Includes a changing pad
- Comfortable to wear/carry everywhere
Unfortunately I didn't have the money to get one of the Petunia Pickle Bottom bags (see note at the bottom of this post). I had my work cut out for me to find a cute diaper bag that didn't cost an arm and a leg. I did a lot of research a found that I really like JJ Cole's diaper bags. They aren't super popular so not everyone has it but they have way cute styles and the best part is the prices (prices range from $60 to $120). But I was also able to find a promo code for 10% off AND free shipping. The promo code is: JJBUNDLE and if you spend $49 or more on their site then you get free shipping. Here is the link and some pictures of what they have to offer:
JJ Cole
http://jjcolecollections.com/diaper-bag
This is the diaper bag I ended up getting. I love that it has a padded strap, stroller attachments, lots of organizational pockets, and a matching changing pad. This bag is $60 without the discount.
Here is another one that I really like ($109):
This is another one of my favorites ($120):
Petunia Pickle Bottom
http://www.petunia.com/
My older sister and sister-in-law both have Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags and I would have LOVED to buy one of those but it was a little out of my price range (prices range from $130 to $760, w/out shipping). They are expensive but they are so adorable and are the Lexus' of diaper bags. If you have the money to buy a Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bag then do it! They are so cute, functional, and I haven't read one complaint about them. They also come with a coordinating changing pad.
Satchel $130
Backpack $180
Carryall - $350
Holdall - $760 (I know, right?)
- Stylish (so I'll want to carry it around everywhere)
- Doesn't cost an arm and a leg
- Lots of organizational pockets and space
- Includes a changing pad
- Comfortable to wear/carry everywhere
Unfortunately I didn't have the money to get one of the Petunia Pickle Bottom bags (see note at the bottom of this post). I had my work cut out for me to find a cute diaper bag that didn't cost an arm and a leg. I did a lot of research a found that I really like JJ Cole's diaper bags. They aren't super popular so not everyone has it but they have way cute styles and the best part is the prices (prices range from $60 to $120). But I was also able to find a promo code for 10% off AND free shipping. The promo code is: JJBUNDLE and if you spend $49 or more on their site then you get free shipping. Here is the link and some pictures of what they have to offer:
JJ Cole
http://jjcolecollections.com/diaper-bag
This is the diaper bag I ended up getting. I love that it has a padded strap, stroller attachments, lots of organizational pockets, and a matching changing pad. This bag is $60 without the discount.
Here is another one that I really like ($109):
This is another one of my favorites ($120):
Petunia Pickle Bottom
http://www.petunia.com/
My older sister and sister-in-law both have Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags and I would have LOVED to buy one of those but it was a little out of my price range (prices range from $130 to $760, w/out shipping). They are expensive but they are so adorable and are the Lexus' of diaper bags. If you have the money to buy a Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bag then do it! They are so cute, functional, and I haven't read one complaint about them. They also come with a coordinating changing pad.
Satchel $130
Backpack $180
Carryall - $350
Holdall - $760 (I know, right?)
FREE Mozart for Babies Download
My baby girl LOVES music. I think it's because she had to listen to it everyday while she was in my belly because I was finishing my music degree while I was pregnant with her. So when she was born I started looking for a CD with music designed especially for babies. I was so happy to find tons of FREE Mozart mp3 downloads! Here is the link:
http://www.munchkin.com/mozart-downloads
I know that not all of you will be interested but I love having music for play time, nap time, and even music for when she wakes up. Hope you enjoy!
http://www.munchkin.com/mozart-downloads
I know that not all of you will be interested but I love having music for play time, nap time, and even music for when she wakes up. Hope you enjoy!
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