PREPARE IN ADVANCE

Treat breastfeeding like planning a wedding, or even interviewing for a job. Take a class, join a group, interview or research lactation consultants. Make sure you involve your partner as well, the more they are involved and understand, the more support they can offer you. Also if you are working and still breastfeeding, then discuss options and issues with your employer. Make them aware that better breastfeeding options means less sick days and so therefor, more productivity and increased morale! The benefits of breastfeeding last a lifetime.

Photography by Larry Bercow

GET INSPIRED

Talk to friends or relatives that have enjoyed breastfeeding or even celebrity mums! They can give you tips on handling problems and resolutions. Maybe you can watch a friend breastfeed and ask questions. Better breastfeeding means less bottles to wash, less visits to the doctor. Keep telling yourself that you can do it and enjoy the mummy and baby bonding time.

HIT THE GROUND RUNNING

Aim for a good latch within an hour of birth and get the nurse to help you; pain is not okay! Your baby is programmed to go straight from birth to the breast, both for comfort and colostrum – so weighing, tests, and relatives can wait. Snuggle up: skin-to-skin contact boosts your supply and cues baby to latch well. Demand pasteurized, screened donor milk if a supplement is medically required.

GET IN THE GROOVE

Remember, the first few days and weeks are a learning curve, but like riding a bike, you’ll get the hang of it soon. Keep phone numbers of your support group and top lactation consultants handy, and get help immediately if you have any pain. Ask friends and family to bring a meal or watch the baby while you nap, set small, manageable goals and acknowledge yourself.

Best for Babes
is giving breastfeeding
a makeover and beating
the “booby traps”
- the barriers that keep mums from reaching their personal breastfeeding goals.

For the Ultimate Breastfeeding Preparation Checklist
and more information visit:
bestforbabes.org

A CHEMICAL used in plastic containers and drink cans has been shown to affect the functioning of the intestines, according to a landmark French study.

Researchers from the National Institute of Agronomic Research in Toulouse found the digestive tract of rats react negatively to even low doses of Bisphenol A (BPA).

Published in yesterday’s National Academy Sciences journal, their research, also conducted on human intestine cells, found the chemical lowered the permeability of the intestines and the immune system’s response to digestive inflammation.

BPA is used in the production of polycarbonated plastics and epoxy resins found in baby bottles, plastic containers, the lining of cans used for food and beverages, and in dental sealants.

More than 130 studies over the past decade have linked even low levels of BPA, which can leach from plastics, to serious health problems, breast cancer, obesity and the early onset of puberty, among other disorders.

The French study focuses on the first organ to come in contact with the substance, the intestine.

The researchers orally administered doses of BPA to the rats that were equivalent to about 10 times less than the daily amount considered safe for humans, a statement from the Toulouse institute said.

They saw that BPA reduced the permeability of the intestinal lining through which water and essential minerals enter the body, it said.

They also found that newborn rats exposed to BPA in the uterus and during feeding have a higher risk of developing severe intestinal inflammation in adulthood.

The study “shows the very high sensitivity on the intestine of Bisphenol A and opens news avenues for research” including to define new acceptable thresholds of the substance for humans, the institute said.

In May this year, the six major baby bottle makers in the United States agreed to stop using the chemical.

Click here for Wideneck Glass BPA Free Baby Bottles

Click here to view video on a report from Today regarding BPA in baby bottles:

For more BPA, Leadfree and Chemical Free products click here

Bebe au Lait, fashion nursing cover- Hooter Hiders. Protect your modesty whilst feeding baby anywhere, in public or at  family gatherings without embarassment.

Handcrafted but allowing mum to be discreet when feeding in public the Hooter Hider is the epitome of comfort  and has  an elegant and chic look.

Bebe Au Lait nursing covers are machine washable and hand made allowing mum to focus on nursing without distaractions.

This Yoko nursing cover comes with a Hooter Hiders label. It is black and white with a gorgeous Japanese-inspired pattern.

• Terrycloth pocket detail for quick cleanup or storage of
  breast pads or pacifiers.
• Machine Washable
• Unique rigid neckline allows for ventilation, as
  well as direct eye contact with the baby.
• Generous sizing keeps mommy completely covered during
  breastfeeding
• Multi-use: Can be used as a nursing cover, a blanket, or
  even a sunshade to protect baby’s fragile skin from harmful
  UV rays
• 100% cotton.

Nurse discreetly and in style! The Hooter Hiders Blomst nursing cover is touted as a “Mommy Must-Have” by mothers, celebrities, and medical professionals. Our award winning nursing covers are sought by nursing moms everywhere.

More and more moms are becoming very conscious of the benefits of using “organic” products to protect their babies.

They say that everything eventually comes full circle and it seems that we are finally getting the message and getting back to natural and organic products from food to clothing, bedding, toys etc.

The Seed Organic Cradle and the Pod Bassinet are just two of the new and organic products to be found in today’s market

Moses Basket

Seed Organic Cradle

The Pod

Organic cotton is a term meaning pure cotton which has no added chemicals or lead based dyes and all cotton is IMO certified to international standards.

Organically grown cotton is softer, smells better and is stronger than chemically treated cotton. It is also hypo-allergenic, breathable and provides a safer environment for your baby.

The dyes used are free from heavy metals such as lead.

These simple yet elegant products provide your baby with a comfortable roomy sleeping space until baby can rollover or sit up.

The Baby Moses Basket creates a lovely portable bed for your baby and is great for weekends away or having the baby near where you are in the house. The sides off the basket are breathable, as is the waffle cotton.

These mattress bases have been designed with breather holes which provide great air circulation for your baby and a pocket for the mattress base to slide into, ensuring that the base always stays horizontal to the ground and your baby will not roll.

Latex ‘Breather Hole” Mattress

Latex is a 100% natural organic product derived from the milky sap of the Hevea Brasiliensis (Rubber Tree) . It is hypoallergenic, ant – microbial. (does not grow bacteria or mould) It will contour to the shape of your baby’s body building up no pressure points and is a breathable open cell structure for better air circulation, making it a far superior mattress for your baby. And what’s better is that it’s a naturally derived renewable resource – so it’s a good choice for the future of our environment. Watch the video here

If having a healthy environment for you baby is important to you then why not investigate these fantastic baby cradles.

Until next time.

Caroline

www.bitz4kidz.com.au

Whats a Bumbo Babysitter? Its just about the most comfortable, hands free, safe seat for your baby or small child up to 14 months old. It is also hygienic,  non toxic,  easy to clean, and provides a snug and cozy environment for your child and  it is portable, take it with you to the beach, family outings or when visiting family and friends.

There are no uncomfortable straps or fasteners. It allows you to have  maximum  hands free interaction and enjoyable communication with your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

How secure is the Bumbo?
The Bumbo is as secure as the surface it sits on. The baby’s weight actually helps hold it in the Bumbo.  The Bumbo Seat is designed to put the baby’s bottom slightly below the leg openings. Remember,  not to put the Bumbo on raised surfaces.

Can the Bumbo be used as a bath seat?
No. Please do not use the Bumbo in the bath

Do occupational and physical therapists use the Bumbo?
The Bumbo Seat is being used extensively by therapists and in Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) programs around the USA.

Do doctors approve of the Bumbo?
Yes, After testing it has been approved and endorsed by both pediatricians and orthopedists.

When can my child start using the Bumbo?
Whenever your baby is able  hold his or her head up without assistance. For some babies, this can be as young as 8 weeks, but it varies depending on the development of each individual baby.

Is there a weight limit on the Bumbo Babysitter?
The Bumbo is recommended for children up to 22 pounds. In practical useage however, we have seen that there is not really a weight limit on the Bumbo, it is more of a size limit. We have seen special needs children comfortably using the Bumbo at 7 years old. Often it is a child’s hips that become too wide for the Bumbo. Other times it is the child’s thighs that outgrow the Bumbo. The bottom line is that as long as your child is comfortable in the Bumbo, they can use it. The Bumbo will not break. Of course, the larger and more developed your child is, the more likely it is they can get out of the Bumbo so remember to never leave your child unattended in the Bumbo Seat.

Does the Bumbo Baby Sitter come in different sizes?
The Bumbo Baby Sitter was designed for babies who cannot sit upright on their own. Therefore, there is only one size available.

Is the Bumbo made of hard plastic?
No the bumbo is made from a soft low density foam. It is soft and squishy for your baby’s comfort.

Is the Bumbo Seat latex free?
Yes. It is made from non-toxic, environmentally friendly polyurethane.

Depending upon the individual development of the child, some babies will be able to climb out of the bumbo, so never leave your child unattended. This product is not recommended for use on raised surfaces.

I

They say that everything comes full circle, and you know its true when you see the return of cloth diapers/nappies.

Cloth diapers/nappies are the cool thing to put on your baby or child. Why? because they are considerably cheaper and environmentally friendly.

There are so many myths surrounding cloth diapers/nappies so lets eliminate a few of them and get you thinking about changing from expensive,environmentally unfriendly products and keeping what amounts to thousands of dollars in your purse over the lifetime your child will be wearing diapers/nappies.

Myth 1. Cloth nappies need to be soaked for days.

This used to be the case but today is not necessary. . The majority of cloth nappies users, use a method called Pailing. This just requires that you dispose of solid waste down the toilet, maybe a quick rinse, and pop it into a bucket until you are ready to wash. No smelly buckets, no foul water to get rid of and no soaking agents.

When you have a load of nappies to ready to wash , tip your bucket in the washing machine and do a rinse cycle. If you wish you can add half strength washing detergent which does not contain any enzymes, do not use a fabric softener but if you want to you can add a disinfectant to the rinse cycle. Easy right?

Myth 2. Cloth nappies are hard work!

Having a baby is hard work, cloth nappies are just another load of washing and you need only do that every couple of days.

Myth 3. Cloth nappies are expensive!

Work it out for yourself, how much would a years supply of disposable diapers/nappies cost. One of my friends worked out that it would cost she and her husband approx $2000.00 a year for disposable diapers and around $300.00 for cloth nappies. (Her husband said if she saved $1700.00 then she could have it to spend on what she wanted. Nice)

Following is a graph showing saving using cloth nappies

Myth 4. Cloth nappies cause nappy rash

Its interesting that in the 1970′s hardly any babies had nappy rash, yet today many babies suffer from the condition. Why is this? mainly because the nappies are left on too long. Disposable or cloth. a nappy needs to be changed regularly to protect your baby from nappy rash.

Although disposables last for a longer period of time between changes and suck moisture away from baby’s skin, modern cloth nappies made from hemp and bamboo can be just as absorbent, while the use of fleece liners leaves baby with the same dry feeling as in disposables.

Myth 5. Cloth nappies leak

Todays cloth nappies are fitted the same way as disposables, so cloth offers the same or better protection against leaks.

Myth 6.Cloth nappies are not environmentally friendly.

Cloth nappies are very environmentally friendly especially with water usage. Yes, cloth nappies use water in the home , but disposables use water in their production, they create huge amounts of landfill and many are not biodegradable.

With no soaking and eco washing modern cloth uses less water than a single use nappy.

Myth 7 Cloth nappies are old fashioned and ugly.

Cloth nappies have undergone a huge change since the 70s, no more pins or plastic pilchers, now they are in colourful fabrics with interesting textures and fun graphics.

So why not consider cloth nappies as a serious alternative to disposables, your baby will be better of and so will your wallet and the environment.

Caroline

Here are some thing to look for when purchasing a movement monitor for your baby:

1. Having a portable device allows you to monitor your baby wherever you happen to be and the baby is sleeping, visiting friends or relatives shopping  or out for dinner, find a monitor which will give you peace of mind.

2. When purchasing your movement monitor, look for a device which will easily clip to your baby’s clothing

3. Make sure the device  is equipped with smart sensing technology so it is able to detect the slightest movement from  your baby  yet recognize the difference  between the motion from your baby and the motion from other devices like a fan, crib, mobile etc.

4. Make sure  the movement monitor is easy to use up and will not require additional set up so it is immediately on guard monitoring every move your baby makes  and ensuring your peace of mind while baby sleeps.

One of the coolest baby monitors I have found is the “night knight” this monitor has so many features and benefits and will truly allow parents to relax knowing that their baby is safe.

The night knight will:

Ensure the system alarms & vibrates
If baby is motionless for more than 20 seconds, monitor alarms and vibrates to notify parent

Has a movement indicator
Pulsing light confirms your baby’s movement

Smart sensor
night knight’s ™ software can distinguish between the motion of your baby & other devices in the room: fan, mobile, radio and more!

Multi-sleep position
night knight works in any position your baby sleeps (on-back sleeping recommended)

No pad monitor false alarms
night knight is secured on baby, eliminating false alarms from baby rolling off monitor pad, as with other movement sensors

No set-up required
simply install batteries & begin use

No cords or wires while in use
so no risk of cord injuries

Completely portable
monitor can go anywhere your baby sleeps; bassinet, daycare, grandma’s, everywhere!

Rechargeable batteries
50-60 hours of use with every charge

Low battery audio notification

]]> http://bitz4kidz.wordpress.com/2009/01/15/night-knight-portable-baby-monitor/feed/ 1 bitz4kidz night-knight-infant-movement-monitor http://bitz4kidz.wordpress.com/2008/12/01/baby-swimmers-with-built-in-nappies-these-are-really-cool/ http://bitz4kidz.wordpress.com/2008/12/01/baby-swimmers-with-built-in-nappies-these-are-really-cool/#comments Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:37:37 +0000 bitz4kidz http://bitz4kidz.wordpress.com/?p=47 ]]> Remember when it used to be that we put nappies under our kids swimming costumes to help prevent embarrassing accidents? How times have changed, and now baby swim wear comes with a built in nappy, how cool is that?

I recently spotted these gorgeous swimsuits in a local shop, and just had to have one for my two year old granddaughter, I especially like the fact that it is all in one, and comes with a built in nappy, its waterproof and has a wick away liner to keep moisture away from your baby,s skin.

As we step into the Australian summer, protection against ultra violet rays become a priority in protecting our kids and grandkids, and these wonderful little suits have UPF of 50+ and are 100% PVC free.

Swim wear has also become an important health issue, and many public health officials are requiring the use of premium quality swim nappies. Happily these little swimmers can be worn alone without disposables, just wash and wear.

The best part was the price, they are not expensive and make a great xmas gift.

Hi and welcome to the first edition of my brand new blog. I plan to keep you informed on what is going on in the world of baby products on a regular basis so please feel free to comment and let me know what kind of information you would like and what I can do to help you.

A number of my customers have been asking how to tie the “Moby Wrap” so with thanks to Reneeber I have included her very easy to understand instructional video.

I love the Moby Baby wrap simply because it is so easy to wear and very comfortable for both baby and you. It comes in various colours and is 100% pure cotton, I especially like the fact that it has a UV factor which protects baby when you are out in the sun. I also like the the the wide fabric which helps to protect your back and shoulders by evenly distributing the baby’s weight.

There is not a lot of extra material or bulky padding between you and your baby. Your baby can hear your heartbeat and finds comfort in the warmth of your body,and sound of your heartbeat within the cuddly confines of the Moby wrap.

Click on the link for more information or to purchase your Moby Wrap

Til next time

www.bitz4kids.com.au