Go to EQ Moms' Club

Month: July 2026

How to Share Early Parenting Responsibilities

Posted on by admin

It took both you and your partner to make this adorable, little poop-maker. So, it only makes sense that the child-rearing responsibilities be shared between you as well. In fact, a researcher from the University of Missouri (MU) found that husbands and wives are happier when household and child-related responsibilities are shared.

“Wives in our study viewed father involvement and participation in household chores as related,” says Adam Galovan, a doctoral student in the MU Department of Human Development and Family Studies. “Doing household chores and engaging with the children seem to be important ways for husbands to connect with their wives, and that connection is related to better couple relationships.”

Sharing parenting responsibilities not only helps lighten the workload but also strengthens your relationship and allows both parents to build meaningful bonds with their baby.

No matter how you look at it, divided tasks lead to a happy and more balanced household. Here are some tips on how to share the load.

Balance Doesn’t Always Mean 50/50

The same number of tasks doesn’t necessarily mean a balanced distribution of responsibilities. While your tasks might take you 30 minutes to accomplish, your partner’s might take a little longer to complete. So instead of quantifying chores, try to find the balance where both of you feel supported, appreciated, productive, valuable, and happy.

A good example of finding balance is using the differences in your body clocks to your advantage. If your partner is nocturnal, maybe he can take over the nighttime duties while you take over for most of the following day.

Communicate Openly (you aren’t the babies)

Don’t expect your partner to know what to do every time. If you’re overwhelmed, tired, or simply need a break, let your partner know. Keeping frustrations to yourself may eventually lead to resentment or unnecessary arguments.

If you decide not to speak up and just “take one for the team,” it may lead to negative feelings that are expressed in a furious or passive-aggressive manner later on. If you want your partner to tend to your needs, verbalize them.

Be Specific About What You Need

Be specific about the things you need your partner to do. Instead of plainly saying you need his help, ask him to do the specific tasks you can’t accommodate, such as feeding the baby, putting the baby to sleep, or going for a diaper run while you’re breastfeeding. Being specific helps meet your needs.

Be firm

Taking care of a newborn is a lot of work, and both parents are expected to be involved. While this is expected, the involvement is grossly unbalanced for many couples. Keep the balance by being firm about it.

Studies show that men take cues from their wives regarding what they’re supposed to do; in this, your husband looks to you for direction. This then goes back to verbalizing. Speak up, specify tasks, and be firm about them.

Respect Each Other’s Parenting Style

You and your spouse may have different parenting styles; something that works for you may not work for your husband.

For example, you may each have your own way of changing a diaper, soothing a crying baby, or putting your baby to sleep. As long as your baby is safe, comfortable, and well cared for, there’s often more than one right way to accomplish a task.

Simply accept that your partner’s methods may be different from yours. The less you criticize him, the more he will be willing to help with baby duties. Finally, remember the saying “it takes two to tango”. You and your partner are a team, so find a way to utilize each other’s strengths. Don’t forget to commend each other on the jobs well done; reward each other too. How you do so is entirely up to you.

Sharing parenting responsibilities isn’t about making every task exactly equal—it’s about creating a partnership where both parents feel supported and valued.

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our experts here.

How to Prepare Your Home for a New Baby

Posted on by admin

Bringing your newborn home is one of the most exciting milestones for any family. But along with the excitement comes a long checklist of things to prepare—from setting up the nursery to making sure your home is clean, safe, and ready for your baby’s arrival.

Despite reading parenting books and taking advice from family and friends, many new moms and dads quickly discover that caring for a newborn takes far more time and attention than they expected. Balancing baby care with household responsibilities can be challenging, especially during the first few weeks. Therefore your home must be baby-ready so you can focus all your attention on your family’s newest member.

Here are some handy tips on preparing your home for the baby’s homecoming:

Clean Your House Thoroughly

Infants are highly vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. With their immune system just gearing up for life ahead, it’s important to eliminate the risk of exposing them to pathogens. Disinfect the house before the baby comes home.

If your family is prone to allergies, keep all allergens away. Similarly, do not use harsh chemicals in cleaning the house as they could leave unwanted residue that can harm your baby.

Make sure your baby’s room is ready before your due date. Keep essentials like diapers, wipes, feeding supplies, extra clothes, and blankets within easy reach.

Prepare Your Baby’s Bathing Area

Prepare and disinfect the area where your baby will be bathed. Take note that their umbilical cord stumps are still healing, so make sure that the area where you will wash them is clean to avoid infecting your baby’s wound.

Until the stump naturally falls off, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on proper cord care and sponge bathing if recommended.

Keep Household Pets at a Safe Distance

Some babies, particularly those with weakened immune systems, may be more sensitive to pet dander or saliva.

Keep pets away from the baby’s room to avoid exposure to animal fur and saliva, which can trigger allergic reactions. Even though pets may be tame enough not to hurt the baby, never leave pets alone in the same room as your baby under any circumstances.

Baby-Proof Your Home Early

Although it’ll still be a few months before your baby starts crawling, start thinking about baby-proofing the house.

Cover all sharp and jagged edges, as well as unused electric outlets. Store all knives, scissors, and other harmful materials safely out of the baby’s reach. Keep them out of the way.

Prepare for Emergencies

Your baby’s first few weeks in the house are critical, as this is when they are most susceptible to all kinds of diseases. Babies who have been to the NICU (Newborn Intensive Care Unit), premature babies, and babies born with complications have a higher rate of re-hospitalization.

Always be prepared for an emergency. Keep a list of emergency numbers in the house and learn the fastest route to the nearest hospital. Make sure that you can reach your baby’s pediatrician for emergencies. Also, keep a packed bag with your baby’s clothes in the room in case you need to stay at the hospital. This way, if an emergency occurs, all you have to do is grab the bag and go to the hospital.

Prepare Easy-to-Heat Meals

First-time parents may find it difficult to adjust to sleepless nights, especially if their baby is colicky. It is advised to keep and refrigerate some quick-to-cook meals a few days in advance, so it would be more convenient for the couple to prepare meals without taking too much time from focusing on their baby.

Get Your Home Ready for Your Baby

Infant care takes more work than most people think. First-time parents soon realize that reading about infant care in books and doing it in real life are miles apart. With their attention focused entirely on taking care of the baby, having everything else prepared and out of the way will surely be of great help in reducing the number of sleepless nights ahead of them.

Do you want to learn more about child care? Read more about it here.

You can also talk to our EQ Support here.

How to Sleep Better During Pregnancy: Countering Sleep Disturbances During Pregnancy

Posted on by admin

Moms are used to sleepless nights when their little ones finally come home. However, what many don’t know is that sleep deprivation is prevalent during pregnancy.

In fact, a National Sleep Foundation poll called Women and Sleep determined that 78% of the respondents reported poorer sleep during pregnancy than at any other time. Women also reported feeling more fatigued during their pregnancies, specifically during the first and third trimesters.

With the all-nighters coming in as early as the first trimester, you’ll want to do what you can to keep conditions ideal for a good night’s rest. That said, here are some common causes of sleep disturbances and simple measures to counter them.

First Trimester

Generally, expect fatigue to hit hard during the first trimester because of the increase in the hormone progesterone. Your body also tends to tire easily as it undergoes the gestation process, which means you’ll be sharing energy with your fetus. Below are other causes of sleep disturbances during the first trimester.

Frequent Urination

Your uterus pushes against your bladder as your baby grows, leading to an unfavorable increase in bathroom breaks.

Counter:

Avoid drinking fluids after 6 PM. Reducing liquid intake a few hours before bedtime reduces bathroom frequency; it also helps if you go to the bathroom before sleeping.

Body Aches

Body aches seem to be abundant during pregnancy. Your breasts will swell, and you will experience pelvic cramps, as well as other random body pains.

 Counter:

Pain medication is a no-no unless suggested by your doctor. However, try to exercise or engage in physical activity early in the day. Good workouts (as well as being physically tired!) promote deep sleep. Ask your doctor what type of exercise is allowed.

Nausea

Nausea during pregnancy isn’t time-sensitive, so expect it to hit even at ungodly hours – even during nighttime when you’re trying to sleep.

Counter:

Keep saltine crackers ready. Crackers have high starch content that helps absorb stomach acid.

Second Trimester

The second trimester is often defined as the easiest phase of pregnancy. However, while this trimester is when you’ll get the most sleep, you won’t quite be free of nighttime challenges yet.

Heartburn

As your baby grows, it now puts pressure on your stomach. This pushes the acid from the stomach up into the esophagus, which causes heartburn. Lying down makes it worse.

Counter:

Digestion takes longer during pregnancy, so speed up the process by staying upright after dinner. Sit up while watching TV or read a book for a few hours, while seated before lying down. Also, avoid spicy, fried, and acidic food, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, among others.

Leg Cramps

While the exact cause of leg cramps during pregnancy isn’t determined, they can very well cut into your sleep time.

Counter:

Avoid carbonated beverages as they weaken your ability to metabolize calcium, and an imbalance in calcium can lead to cramps. At the same time, go for calcium-rich food such as pasteurized dairy products and dark, leafy vegetables.

Nightmares

With much to consider, thoughts tend to race through pregnant women’s minds till the wee hours of the night. When they do find solace in slumber, the stress and anxiety can morph into vivid nightmares.

Counter:

Engage in calming techniques like listening to soothing music or reading a book. Feeling anxious is unavoidable, but there are exercises to help put you in an easier state of mind. Meditation and yoga are great exercises for this.

 Third Trimester

Expect nighttime turbulence to spike back up during the final trimester. You may wake up more times a night during this stretch compared to the first trimester. The following are the common sleep disturbances during the third trimester:

Back Pain

The majority of women experience back pain at this stage due to the extra weight they are carrying, as this is the point in pregnancy where they are at their largest.

Counter:

Lying on your back may induce snoring and cut off a little circulation to your unborn baby. To avoid this, simply sleep on your side and add pillows if it makes you more comfortable. If snoring persists, see a specialist and have your airflow monitored.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Some women experience Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), where they feel like insects are crawling on their legs. Those lacking in iron and folate are more susceptible to this syndrome.

Counter:

Evening walks and light leg massages help with RLS. Include lots of fortified grains and dark leafy greens in your diet to make up for the iron and folate deficiency.

Extra Tips for Better Sleep During Pregnancy

No matter which trimester you’re in, these healthy sleep habits may help you rest more comfortably:

  • Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
  • If you can’t fall asleep after about 20 minutes, get out of bed and do a relaxing activity until you feel sleepy again.
  • Take short daytime naps between 2 PM and 4 PM if needed. Limit naps to around 20 to 30 minutes so they don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.
  • Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet to create a sleep-friendly environment.
  • Use supportive pregnancy pillows to relieve pressure on your back, hips, and belly.
  • Avoid caffeine later in the day and eat lighter meals close to bedtime whenever possible.

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our experts here.

References: 

References:

http://www.fitpregnancy.com/pregnancy/pregnancy-health/sleep-guide-pregnancy-challenges-and-solutions

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/sleep-soundly-during-pregnancy

https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/pregnancy-and-sleep

First Family Outing With Your Baby: A Parent’s Guide

Posted on by admin

Bringing your baby home is an exciting milestone, but eventually, you’ll start wondering: “When is it safe to take my newborn outside?” For many first-time parents, planning your baby’s first family outing can feel both exciting and nerve-racking.

When your baby is born, and your maternal instincts kick in, you realize just how much everything is a potential threat. The outside world is harsh, and your own home is satisfactory only under your supervision. Keeping your newborn safe and going to obsessive lengths, such as wiping every surface that your newborn might come into contact with, is not crazy behavior. Protecting your baby is important, but that doesn’t mean you can’t venture out into the wide world.

The good news is that most healthy, full-term newborns can safely go outdoors as long as you take the right precautions and avoid unnecessary exposure to illness. However, if your baby was born prematurely or if your newborn’s immune system is particularly weak, you’ll have to consult your pediatrician before heading out:

No Age Limit for the Outdoors

Parents worry about their children and will continue to for the rest of time. However, there is no medical rule that healthy newborns must remain inside the house for weeks.

According to Anne Hansen, MD, MPH, medical director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital Boston, “The idea that babies have to stay inside the house for several weeks after they’re born is FALSE. In fact, as long as your baby is healthy, getting some fresh air can be great for mom and baby if you take a few precautions.”

The only danger here is exposing your newborn to people who may be sick, but we’ll get to that later.

Choose the Best Time to Go Out

Timing can make a big difference when taking your newborn outside. If you decide to take baby out for a stroll in the park, be sure to time it just right. You’ll want to schedule your trips for either the first half of the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the sun at its worst, and for no longer than a couple of hours.

Avoid the midday heat, especially in the Philippines where temperatures can become extremely high.

Take your newborn’s state of mind into consideration as well. Ideally, you should take them out at times when they’re content or in a good mood – usually after naps, feeding, and diaper changes. This sets your trip up for smooth sailing.

Strangers’ Dangers

Let’s get back to exposing your newborn to people. You’re bound to come across individuals and groups, but try to avoid or limit your time in and around crowds. Not only will you be avoiding more unwanted germs, you’re also protecting them from potentially getting overwhelmed and highly irritable.

If your trip is to the mall, be sure to have an escape route or be close enough to the exit if your child doesn’t respond to crowds well.

While friends and relatives may be excited to meet your baby, it’s perfectly okay to politely ask them not to kiss or touch your newborn, especially during the first few months.

Dress Baby Up Sensibly

Dress your newborn in relation to the temperature outside and not to “what’s hot and what’s not.” Cover all bases: your baby’s head, feet, and hands. Also, bring an extra jacket in case you’re going to an air-conditioned place where the temperature can be colder.

To protect your baby from the sun, keep them in the shade and use a wide-brimmed hat whenever possible. Sunscreen is generally recommended only for babies aged 6 months and older.

And because you might have to do a diaper change on the go, pick bottoms that snap all the way up the legs and may be quickly removed.

Packing to Your Heart’s Content

To satisfy your obsessive safety measures, packing for outings is the time you can feel free to go crazy.

It might seem like a lot, but for a mere two-hour trip, you’ll want to pack up to four diapers. Couple those with wipes as well. A change of clothes is also a must—another is up to you.

If you don’t feel comfortable breastfeeding in public, bring along a thick blanket with which to cover yourself. You could also bring an extra shirt or light cardigan, in case your baby pukes or showers you with their loving drool.

Anything else like toys, snacks, and a book for yourself is up to you!

You may also want to bring hand sanitizer, burp cloths, and small plastic bags for used diapers or soiled clothes to make cleanup easier while you’re away from home.

Enjoy Your First Family Outing

Your baby’s first family outing doesn’t have to be perfect. There may be unexpected diaper changes, crying spells, or sudden changes in plans, and that’s completely normal.

The important thing is spending quality time together while helping your baby gradually experience the world around them. With every outing, you’ll become more confident as parents and create memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our expert here.

5 Foods to Stay Away from While Pregnant

Posted on by admin

A baby’s health is every expectant mother’s priority. This is why most mothers take good care of their bodies to ensure that their babies grow healthy. From hygiene to diet, every decision a mother makes affects not only her but her baby. Therefore, mothers should pay close attention to the food they are eating to ensure their babies are as healthy as possible.

Fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and proteins are ideally the basic components of a person’s diet. However, there are some foods and beverages that mothers must not eat while pregnant. Take a look at some of them below:

1. Raw or undercooked food

Undercooked meat, unpasteurized eggs, and raw cookie dough should be avoided as these may contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can harm you and your baby. Raw food, like sushi and sashimi, is not advisable as it contains high percentages of mercury. Make sure that any meat you eat is thoroughly cooked. Salads, although raw, can be eaten as long as the vegetables are thoroughly washed to get rid of toxins such as toxoplasma, which can cause hearing loss and blindness. It is also recommended to be particular with the dressing on your salad as some brands of Caesar’s salad dressing contain undercooked eggs. Always read the label before purchasing.

2. Hotdogs, sausages, and other processed food

Processed food such as hotdogs, luncheon meats, and sausages may cause listeriosis, a condition that results in miscarriage, stillbirth, and other serious problems for you and your baby. Even the fluid from hotdog packaging can trigger the disease, says UCLA Doctor Michael Lu. Therefore, pregnant women should thoroughly wash their hands, utensils, and other surfaces that were in contact with processed food to reduce contamination.

3. Fresh juice and unpasteurized dairy products

Fruits, if unwashed before juicing, may contain toxoplasma from the soil that their peels were exposed to. When cut and juiced, these toxins are usually transfered to the juice. FDA recommends avoiding unpasteurized freshly-squeezed juices unless you personally prepare them. To be on the safe side, it is better to purchase pasteurized fruit juice available in supermarkets. Unpasteurized milk and dairy products, such as brie or feta cheese, may contain salmonella, listeria, E. coli, and other bacteria that can cause complications for your growing baby. To be on the safe side, read product labels to ensure they were pasteurized.

4. Fish with High Levels of Mercury

As much as possible, avoid fish with high levels of mercury such as swordfish, king mackerel, marlin, tuna, and lapu-lapu. Similarly, fish caught in local rivers and streams can contain pollutants and unwanted chemicals that may harm your growing baby. Eating contaminated fish can impede your baby’s development, particularly of the Central Nervous System. If you’re craving for seafood, then indulge in fish that have low levels of mercury, such as anchovies (dilis), salmon, tilapia, and catfish, which you can eat up to 12 ounces weekly.

5. Caffeinated Drinks

Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid caffeine. However, if you can’t avoid it, then try to keep your consumption to a maximum of 100mg daily. A recent study showed that expectant mothers who drink more than 200mg of caffeine per day have a high risk of miscarriage, while those who consume more than 100mg experience fetal growth restrictions. To be on the safe side, experts recommend consuming less than 100mg a day if you are unable to completely stave off caffeine from your diet.

Your choices impact not only you but also your growing baby. This is why you must pay extra care and attention when it comes to diet and lifestyle.

Choose a Healthy Pregnancy Diet for You and Your Baby

Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy is one of the best ways to support your baby’s healthy growth and development. Along with choosing nutritious foods, knowing which foods to avoid during pregnancy can help reduce unnecessary health risks for both you and your baby.

If you’re unsure whether a particular food or drink is safe during pregnancy, consult your obstetrician or healthcare provider before including it in your diet.

Do you have more questions about any preparations you need during pregnancy? Learn more about pregnancy here.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/foodstoavoidwhenyourepregnant

http://www.webmd.com/baby/ss/slideshowwhatnottoeatwhenpregnant

http://www.babycenter.com/0_foodsandbeveragestoavoidduringpregnancy_10348544.bc?showAll=true

http://www.livestrong.com/article/513790-can-pregnant-women-eat-caeser-salads/

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/pasteurized_or_unpasteurized_juice_whats_the_difference

http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/HealthEducators/ucm082417.htm

http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodborneIllnessContaminants/PeopleAtRisk/ucm083327.htm

http://www.raisehealthyeaters.com/foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/

What do Babies Dream About in the Womb?

Posted on by admin

Pregnancy and the science of human development have always fascinated people. The process of how a baby develops inside a mother’s womb and how they seemingly interact with the world around them are topics people wonder about. One of the most common questions expectant parents ask is: do babies dream in the womb? Many people also wonder if babies can hear the world around them, or if they sleep in the womb. If they do, do they dream, and what do they dream about?

It is presumed that babies are born without any knowledge of the outside world and that a baby’s learning process about the world only begins the moment they’re born. However, countless studies through the years have uncovered that a baby’s learning process begins before they are born.

Babies can hear the world around them

The baby is exposed to a myriad of noise despite being inside the uterus. It’s not exactly quiet in there. Aside from the noise of the world around the mother, the baby also hears sounds that their mother’s body makes, such as her heartbeat and voice.

Research has uncovered that of all these sounds, the baby is most attached to their mother’s voice. The heart rate of a fetus slows down every time they hear their mother’s voice, which is why babies recognize their mother’s voice as early as when they are born.

However, research suggests that babies don’t show a preference towards their father’s and siblings’ voices in the same way they do towards their mother’s. According to Developmental Psychologist Dr. Janet DiPietro, this might be because the mother’s voice is communicated in two ways: ambient sounds through the abdomen and internally through the vibration of her vocal cords. External voices are merely heard as ambient sounds.

Babies do sleep inside the womb

Babies spend most of their time asleep inside the womb, as early as seven months into the pregnancy. At 32 weeks old, fetuses spend 90-95% of their time inside the mother’s womb fast asleep.

The baby’s brain cycles between the quiet, resting state of non-REM sleep and frenzied rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is a period of sleep where most humans experience dreams. Scientists believe that there is a chance that babies also dream while in a state of REM sleep inside the womb.

A team of German scientists studied how sheep fetuses, which are in some ways similar to human fetuses, enter a dream-like state weeks before REM movements are detected. However, performing the same experiment on live human fetuses is impossible, so similar assumptions cannot be confirmed for humans. The only confirmed fact about developing babies is that they enter a state of REM sleep, similar to the dreaming state of adults.

What do babies dream about in the womb?

It is assumed that most people dream about the things they know. Applying this logic to babies, it can be assumed that fetuses only dream about the things that they already know, like the sounds they hear while still inside the womb.

The world of dreams is ambiguous. To this day, scientists are still studying this field of the human experience. Dreaming may be common for most, but it is something unknown for babies. It would be interesting to pursue further studies about this phenomenon among unborn children.

Do you have more questions about babies? Click here to learn more.

You can also talk to our EQSupport here.

Checking Developmental Milestones: What to Expect From Birth to 3 Years

Posted on by admin

Babies are unique and develop at their own pace, so avoid the unnecessary stress of comparing your baby’s developmental milestones with another’s. Yet while a baby might take more time to learn one skill and master another faster, there is a general timeline for baby development that can help parents understand what to expect.

If you think your child is meeting deadlines a little late, don’t worry too much just yet. “Often there’s not even a delay,” says Michelle Bailey, MD, medical director of Duke Health Center at . “Sometimes a parent just isn’t giving the child opportunities. For example, a baby may not sit alone because he’s always being held, rather than having time on the floor.”

Premature birth is also another common explanation for the delay, as Dr. Bailey says, “children who are premature may not have the same rate of muscle strength and development.” This may lead to a delay in motor skills, although this is usually resolved over time.

To determine if your baby is developing normally, here are some milestones and advice on how you can aid their development, as well as red flags to watch out for during your child’s first three years.

First Year Baby Developmental Milestones

1 to 3 months

Your child can/will:

  • Take notice of your voice, face, and touch
  • Hear fully and is likely to turn towards the sound of your voice
  • Focus their sight up to 12 inches
  • Lift their head briefly and turn it to the side while on their belly

During this time, have your child spend lots of time on their belly, encouraging them to reach for toys to strengthen their neck and back muscles. Make frequent eye contact when talking or reading to your little one.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Doesn’t suckle well
  • Can’t seem to focus on moving objects within sight
  • Doesn’t react or respond to bright lights or loud sounds
  • Seems especially stiff or limp

3 to 6 months

Your child can/will:

  • Smile! They also actively enjoy playtime.
  • Imitate your facial expressions as well as the sounds you make
  • Support the weight of their head while sitting upright
  • Lift their chest along with their head like a mini push-up
  • Open and close their hands, smack objects, and shake toys. They can also bring their hands towards their mouths at this point.
  • Push their legs down when held in standing position
  • Focus on faces and can recognize yours even from across the room

Guide your child’s thumb to their mouth to help your child learn to self-soothe. Continue doing the belly exercise to further develop their muscles and allow them to explore objects with their hands, as this should be a part of their daily routine. Also, engage your child in “conversation” by speaking with your baby, pointing out different objects, and naming them.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Can’t support their head well
  • Can’t grip objects
  • Can’t focus on moving objects
  • Doesn’t smile
  • Doesn’t react to loud sounds
  • Doesn’t acknowledge new faces
  • Gets excessively upset by unfamiliar people or surroundings

4 to 7 months

Your child can/will:

  • Smile, laugh, and babble-speak
  • Roll to and from their tummy and back
  • Sit without assistance, as well as support their own weight with their legs with minor assistance
  • Rake in objects, hold them, and move them from hand to hand
  • Learn their name, turning to you when you say it
  • Eat solid food

Encourage your child’s communication skills by responding to everything they babble at you. Try to integrate as much play into your relationship with your child. Place your child in different positions (such as standing, sitting, or lying on their belly) to familiarize them with these. Keep reading to your child and naming things in the immediate area.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Can’t hold their head steady
  • Can’t sit without assistance
  • Doesn’t respond to noises or smiles
  • Isn’t affectionate with those closest to them
  • Shows no interest in reaching for objects

8 to 12 months

 Your child can/will:

  • Crawl
  • Pull themselves up to a standing position using chairs and low tables and walk the length of that support
  • Speak their first word and eventually simple phrases too. For everything else your child wants to communicate, they will make simple gestures. Place things in containers and take them out
  • Grab food and place it into their mouths
  • Mimic more and more of your actions
  • Typically be shy around strangers
  • Experience separation anxiety

Keep speaking to your baby. Besides naming objects and conversing, start describing what you’re doing. To help with separation anxiety, give your child time to get used to new caregivers and be sure to always say goodbye before leaving.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Doesn’t crawl
  • Drags one side more than the other when crawling
  • Can’t stand without support
  • Shows no interest in finding objects you’ve hidden in front of them
  • Doesn’t say any words
  • Doesn’t use gestures (hands, head shaking)

Second Year Baby Developmental Milestones

 Your child can/will:

  • Walk without assistance, go up and down stairs, kick a ball, and maybe even run
  • Use words in short phrases and sentences
  • Follow simple directions
  • Identify shapes and can doodle with crayons, play with stacking blocks, and throw balls
  • Show interest in using the toilet
  • Be more comfortable playing with other children and start to become more independent, even defiant

To develop their verbal skills, talk to your child as often as possible and ask questions. You can have them verbalize what they want instead of pointing at things, give them options, and allow them to make decisions. You can also encourage them to talk by asking them to sort their toys into categories (such as stuffed animals, books, and crayons, among others) when putting them away.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Can’t walk by 18 months
  • Doesn’t understand the use of everyday items
  • Doesn’t speak at least six words by 18 months or two-word sentences by 24 months
  • Doesn’t imitate words and actions
  • Can’t follow simple instructions
  • Starts to regress

Third Year Baby Developmental Milestones

Your child can/will:

  • Live between the world of imagination and reality (for example, have imaginary friends, believe in monsters in the closet or under the bed)
  • Use hundreds of words and can follow multi-step instructions
  • Jump, pedal a bicycle, and open doors.
  • Solve simple puzzles
  • Make friends and display certain emotions towards them like empathy and affection.

To foster further development, set play dates for your child. Allow the playmates to resolve any conflict between them, but be ready to step in if things get too difficult. Pretend play is also a great way for them to sort through their emotions and works best if your child directs the play.

See your doctor if you notice that your child:

  • Struggles with separation anxiety
  • Doesn’t interact with people outside the family nor with other children
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Can’t throw a ball or jump
  • Can’t climb stairs with alternating feet
  • Isn’t able to complete a sentence

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our experts here.

References:

http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/features/is-your-baby-on-track

http://www.babycenter.com/milestone-charts-birth-to-age-3

http://childmind.org/guide/developmental-milestones/

Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Mom and Baby

Posted on by admin

After months of preparation, changes, and anticipation, the big day is finally here: it’s Labor Day! The big day frequently comes as a surprise to most people, so everything you need for the hospital stay should be ready before your expected date. This way, all you have to do once “Labor Day” comes is grab your things and rush to the hospital.

Packing for the hospital stay is essential as labor sometimes takes 12 hours or longer. Also, it can take a few days before you and your baby are discharged, so it will be tricky for your husband to leave your side just to get some much-needed essentials.

If you are clueless about what to pack, here’s a handy guide to what must be in your birthing bag.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Your hospital bag should contain everything you’ll need to stay comfortable throughout labor, delivery, and recovery.

  • Comfortable clothes – Since labor lasts for several hours, make sure you pack comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting soiled. Bring a comfortable t-shirt or nightshirt, and don’t forget to pack socks as the temperature in the hospital can get cold.
  • Hair tie – Having long hair can be messy during labor and may make you feel uncomfortable, or it may stick to your face, especially if you’re sweating! Pack a hairband, hair clip, or a hair tie to keep your locks in place.
  • Nursing and maternity bras – Bring at least two or three nursing bras with you to prepare for breastfeeding. Ensure that you’re wearing a comfortable maternity bra as your breasts can become swollen after the first breastfeeding.
  • Toiletries – Pack your own toiletries since your hospital stay may last for at least two to three days. Although most hospitals give out a toiletry pack upon admission, bring your own deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and other essentials, just in case. Having these familiar items will also help in making you feel comfortable.
  • A going home outfit – Finally, pack a comfortable outfit for the journey home. Use some of your maternity dresses, as your stomach does not immediately shrink back to its old size right after childbirth.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Just like you, your baby will also have their needs once they come out. Aside from your birthing bag, pack your baby’s things in a separate bag. Here is a list of the items you should pack:

  • Infant clothes – Your baby needs warm clothes for the hospital stay and the journey home. Be sure to pack some of the infant clothes you bought for them.
  • Diapers – Your baby can go through as many as 12 diapers in a day. You need to pack more in case your hospital stay goes on longer.
  • Soft blanket, socks, and a bonnet – Your baby may feel cold at times, so be sure to pack some soft blankets, socks, and a bonnet for them.
  • Bibs – These are handy for cleaning any milk your baby may cough up during feeding.
  • Baby bottles – There are instances when your baby has to feed from the bottle this early. Keep a bottle or two in your bag just in case you need it.
  • Soft towels – These will be handy when your baby gets dirty and needs to be cleaned. Pack some wet wipes as well.

Pack Your Hospital Bag Before Your Due Date

Labor day can go by in a blur. With all the hurrying and worrying, it’s best to have everything laid out and ready to avoid adding another worry to the list. Having your bags ready weeks before your expected date lessens your worries and helps direct your concentration entirely on delivering your baby safely.

If you want to read more about preparing for the big day, click here.

You can also speak with our EQ Support here.

Sources:

http://www.babycentre.co.uk/what-to-pack-in-your-hospital-bag

http://www.thebump.com/a/checklist-packing-a-hospital-bag

http://maternityinstitute.com/natural-childbirth-must-haves/

5 Safe Exercises During Pregnancy to Prepare for Childbirth

Posted on by admin

Some pregnant women are wary of overexerting themselves and would rather rest than exercise. While getting enough rest is important, safe exercise during pregnancy also plays a significant role in preparing your body for childbirth.

Proper exercise increases your strength, flexibility, and endurance. It does wonders for your mood, relieves body aches, and improves sleep. Also, maintaining a workout routine makes getting back to your pre-pregnancy body easier.

“You need to be physically active during pregnancy. It has terrific benefits that are associated with a better pregnancy outcome and even shorter labor. It’s a win-win for baby and for mom,” says high-risk pregnancy expert Laura Riley, MD, spokeswoman for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and author of Pregnancy: You and Your Baby. ACOG recommends pregnant moms spend at least 30 minutes doing moderate-intensity exercises at least 3 times a week.

Safe Pregnancy Exercises to Try

It’s time to get physical! Here are 5 heart-pumping exercises that are safe for both you and your unborn child.

1. Swimming

Swimming is one of the best and safest exercises for pregnant women. Aside from working out your arms and legs, swimming reduces swelling and pain in your back and joints. It also helps with posture as the buoyancy allows you to easily maintain an upright position.

2. Tailor Sitting

This is a great way to strengthen and stretch your back, thigh, and pelvic muscles. Sit on the floor with your back straight and keep the soles of your feet pressed together. From there, slowly push your knees toward the ground using your elbows to stretch your inner thighs. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds and make 10 repetitions.

This exercise keeps your pelvic joints flexible and improves blood circulation to your lower body, both of which ease delivery.

3. Kegel Exercises

This exercise also targets your pelvic floor muscles. As these muscles support pelvic organs (uterus, bladder, and bowels), toning them can reduce late pregnancy problems like hemorrhoids.

While urinating, try to stop midstream without using your abdominal, buttock, or thigh muscles. The vaginal muscle that you can feel contracting is your pelvic muscle. Contract this muscle and hold for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times, relaxing in between repetitions.

4. Squatting

Squatting opens the pelvic outlet, giving you – or rather, your little one – up to an extra 1/2-inch to descend during labor.

With your feet apart, keep your back straight against a wall, and slowly slide down to a full squat position with your thighs parallel to the floor. Hold this position for 10 seconds and slowly rise to your original position. Make 10 repetitions.

5. Pelvic Tilt

This exercise strengthens your abdominal muscles and improves your back flexibility, reducing back pain during pregnancy and labor.

For this exercise, you are to go down on all fours – hands and knees, while keeping your head aligned with your back. From this position, pull in your tummy and arch your back towards the ceiling, and hold for 10 seconds. Then, relax your tummy, move back into the original position, and repeat 10 times.

Preparing Your Body for Childbirth

These exercises can benefit you with minimal effort without needing any equipment. However, while exercising helps prepare you physically for the big day, you have to be prepared mentally by getting to know your hospital and having a plan. This helps keep your mind at ease as you approach your due date.

Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any medical concerns.

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our experts here.

References:

http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/exercise-during-pregnancy-myth-vs-fact

http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/preparing-for-labor/exercises-to-help-you-prepare-for-childbirth/

http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-best-kinds-of-exercise-for-pregnancy_7880.bc

How to Toddler-Proof Your Home: Room-by-Room Safety Tips

Posted on by admin

You’ll quickly realize how your entire home is dangerous to a toddler’s health once they’re up and about. Every corner will look more pronounced, every small item more mischievous, and every socket more dangerous. Your home, however cozy, is filled with potential threats to your little one, so you’ll want to make it as safe as possible. Here’s how you can do so.

Toddler-Proofing the Nursery

Let’s start at ground zero. This room is where your toddler will spend most of their time, so it’s important to keep it as safe as possible.

To make the room safer, remove blankets, pillows, and plush toys from your toddler’s crib, as these can pose suffocation risks. Apart from increasing the risk of suffocation, pillows and stuffed animals can also become stepping stools for adventurous toddlers trying to climb out of their cribs.

Mobiles are meant to entertain and relax babies, but once your child can pull themselves up to stand, there’s a good chance they’ll try to grab the hanging pieces. At this stage, it’s time to remove the mobile. You may also want to add soft floor padding to help cushion falls as your toddler begins walking.

Remember those dangerous electrical outlets? Cover them with plastic outlet covers, preferably sliding ones. Install outlet covers in every room your toddler can access.

Finally, go cordless. If your window blinds have cords, consider replacing them with cordless versions. Children can accidentally become entangled in blind cords, creating a serious strangulation hazard.

Toddler-Proofing the Living Room

Coffee tables, entertainment consoles, shelves, benches or certain chairs: the living room is quite an edgy place for a baby with newfound mobility. Many of these corners and edges are right around eye level for a two-footer too, so be sure to cushion all edges with bumpers.

The living room typically holds a lot of décor as well, which means more breakables! Children can surprise you with how far they can reach, so keep all fragile mementos away from your little ones. For instance, picture frames are nice to look at but can easily shatter when dropped and can cut your child.

For taller, larger furniture like bookcases, be sure to secure them to the wall by way of bolts or adjustable locking furniture straps. You don’t want your child tipping over anything taller than them. This also goes for stairs; once your child is up and about, block the stairs with a baby gate.

Again, cover all outlets. While you’re at it, hide all electrical cords behind furniture.

Toddler-Proofing the Bathroom

Never leave your child unattended in the bathroom, even for a few seconds.

That being said, let’s start with the floors. Since they’re moist most of the time, invest in nonslip mats, and place some in the tub as well. In the immediate area outside the bathroom, consider placing rugs with non-skid backings, as your child might still be wet after a bath and looking to make a break for it.

Close toilet lids and keep them shut! Doing so keeps your child from unsanitary exposure, getting their fingers slammed on, and can even save them from drowning (it happens!).

Also, consider installing a medicine cabinet if your bathroom doesn’t have a place to store your medicines or razors. Even if these hazards are on a high shelf, at some point your child will try to reach for them.

Finally, make sure to pad your tub faucet and to use plastic soap dishes instead of glass or ceramic to be extra safe.

Toddler-Proofing the Kitchen

The kitchen contains some of the biggest safety hazards in any home. Keep dangerous items out of reach or secured inside childproof cabinets, including:

  • Cleaning products
  • Cutlery
  • Utensils
  • Plastic bags
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Dishes
  • Glasses and other breakables

In fact, invest in plastic or unbreakable dishes and glasses to use when your child’s around. Unplug small appliances when not in use and be sure not to leave their cords dangling like fish bait.

Let’s not forget the refrigerator. Ensure that you close the door carefully after opening it, especially if your child is already able to open it on his own. Besides getting their fingers caught in the door, children could hurt themselves trying to reach for bottles and such on higher shelves and compartments.

General Toddler-Proofing Tips

Now that the rest of your home is toddler-proof, here are other ways you can safeguard your kid:

  • Keep hot food and drinks away from edges of tables and counters.
  • Avoid using tablecloths or placemats as your child can easily tug and drag down everything on top of them.
  • Anchor floor lamps or remove them altogether.
  • Use doorstops and door holders to protect your child’s fingers.

Creating a Safer Home for Your Toddler

As your toddler becomes more curious and independent, new safety risks will naturally appear around your home. Regularly checking each room for potential hazards can help prevent accidents while giving your child a safe space to explore and learn.

Toddler-proofing your home doesn’t mean removing all the fun—it simply means creating an environment where your little one can discover the world more safely.

For more information and EQ support, feel free to ask our experts here.

 

References:

http://www.parenting.com/gallery/babyproofing-your-home?page=0

http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/parenting/child-rearing-and-development/how-toddler-proof-your-home-room-room-guide

http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/safety/toddlerproofing/childproofing-home-room-by-room/

http://www.babycenter.com/childproofing-checklist-before-toddler-and-beyond

 

Get your EQ Products from our Official Stores

Shop Now

Shop Now

Shop Now

Please transact only through the official EQ Diapers online stores and authorized channels. EQ Diapers and JS Unitrade Merchandise Inc. are not responsible for transactions made through unofficial sellers, fake accounts, or unauthorized online pages.