5 Great Books to Buy for Your Baby's Nursery

from The Stir (Cafe Mom Blog)



My son has really fallen in love with books recently, and one thing I'd suggest to all new moms is to stock up on baby books early and often because one day your baby will want to read a book every 10 minutes, and it's rather expensive to stock up then.

So, if you're heading to the bookstore to pick out a few books for your baby -- either to read now or to save for later -- here are my top five. (Or, should I say, my son's top five!)

1. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? My First Reader (pictured above). This may be a cliche choice, but this was one of the first books Kyle wanted me to read over and over (and over and over) again. He loved the colors and the final page where all the animals are listed together. This is also a great book to buy for a new mom or as a shower gift.

2. My First Numbers Let's Get Counting (My First)  Half the words and items Kyle can say and recognize now are because of this book. He knows "flower" and "feet" and "fish" (and plenty more). He reads this book alone and he reads it with me.



3. Slide and Find - Animals(or Trucks or Words or Colors. My son started reading the Animals version of these books first, and it's how he learned what a cow says and what a bunny does (well, not quite, as he makes the most adorable face that doesn't look like a bunny at all, but it's too ridiculously cute to correct him). Now, he's all about the Trucks book like the total boy he is.


4. Baby Einstein Let's Look!: First Look and Find This is another fun book to help your baby learn words and animals and colors. It's also huge, so you can spend a good chunk of time looking through it. Kyle asks to "read" this one almost daily.


5. Ten Little Ladybugs. My son is currently obsessed with ladybugs and I think that's because there are plenty of ladybugs hanging out in our garden and because of this book. It's a fun, colorful, 3D, rhyming book. And I actually don't mind reading it either.

Hurray, It’s a Giveaway! Bamboobies Super-Soft Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads

If you’ve ever nursed then you are fully aware of all the problems with disposable nursing pads – they bunch up and show under your clothing, they don’t mold around your breast well, they’re uncomfortable, and, oh yeah, they fill up landfills!

I received a pair of Bamboobies to try and even though I’m not currently nursing…oh baby, these are soooooft!  I get the feeling any sore, nursing breast would find these to be a great relief. :)

Bamboobies are washable and reusable nursing pads.  They are unique because they are softer and waterproof, aka "milk-proof," Bamboobies are the new choice for breastfeeding mothers who want a washable nursing pad that doesn't show through clothes.  Bamboo, organic cotton and hemp make these pads super-absorbent and unbelievably soft.

GREEN FACTOR: 
Our fabric producers meet the Global Organic Textile Standards and are certified annually by OEKO Tex 100, OCIA or USDA.

We go 'Beyond Organic' to ensure that fibers are not treated with toxic chemicals and that only water-based dyes are used.

Bamboobies come in two varieties:

And of course Bamboobies are mom created!  Designed by a mother of two in Boulder and handmade in Colorado of organic and sustainable fabrics.  I have tried a LOT of nursing pads in my day and I have to say I'm really happy to have found these and to get to use them next time around.  You will be too!

Enter to Win!

To be entered to win a pair of Bamboobies (ultra-thin or ultra-thick, your choice) please visit the Bamboobies website at www.buybamboobies.com and read about the two products offered.  Then simply send an email to abby@littlemiraclesbabyplanning.com with the subject “Bamboobies” and let me know which type of Bamboobies nursing pad you want to win.  You can get an extra entry if you become a fan of Bamboobies on Facebook!  Contest ends Tuesday, July 6th at 12 noon est.

Pregnancy Healthy Meal Planner

from She Knows Pregnancy and Baby

One of the most important things you can do while pregnant is eat healthy meals and snacks. Your diet directly affects your baby’s health and growth while he’s in your belly and your diet choices during pregnancy affect your baby’s health even after he’s born. With this in mind, along with the fact that March is National Nutrition Month, let’s take a look at a sample healthy meal planner for pregnancy.




Before you start planning your meals….
1) Take a look at healthy eating tips for pregnancy and beyond.
2) Discuss your meal plans with your midwife or doctor.
3) Find out which specific nutrients and calories you should be eating according to your ideal food pyramid and BMI.

The ADA notes that a well-balanced diet for pregnant women includes…

• Whole grains: Breads, cereals, pastas and brown rice.
• Whole fruits: Apples, pears, peaches, nectarines and melon. Since acid can cause heartburn, you may want to be cautious with the amount of acidic fruit you eat, like oranges, pineapples, lemons and limes.
• Vegetables: Leafy greens, bell peppers, eggplant, squash and mushrooms.
• Lean protein from both plant-based and animal-based sources: Try tofu, nuts, seeds, lentils, beans, red meat, chicken, turkey, fish and pork.
• Low-fat dairy: Milk, cheese and yogurt.
• Healthful fats: Extra-virgin olive oil, walnuts, almonds and avocados.

Keep in mind that most women who are pregnant need only about 300 extra calories a day. You’re eating for one + another wee person, not truly eating for two. If you’re pregnant with multiples or overweight or underweight to begin with you may need more or fewer calories which is why discussing your meal plan with your actual health care provider is important.

With all the above in mind, following is a good sample meal plan for pregnancy… note; each lunch and dinner below should include 1 cup low-fat milk. IF you hate milk (like I do) try adding some fat-free chocolate milk mix. Also see how to get calcium if you’re lactose intolerant.

BREAKFAST

• Choose one – An English muffin with tbs peanut butter; whole wheat toast with whole fruit jam; bowl of whole grain cereal.
• Have one cup of low-fat fruit flavored yogurt or a glass of 1% or 2% milk.
• Add 1/2 cup of fresh fruit like grapes or strawberries and 1 cup of orange juice.
• I always have coffee in the morning – but during pregnancy you should have water or decaf tea or decaf coffee instead.

MID MORNING SNACK
Choose one of the following snacks…

• One cup cranberry juice and an oz of pretzels or whole grain crackers.
• Apple slices paired with small slices of cheddar cheese or dipped in a small cup of creamy peanut butter.
• Sliced veggies, crackers and hummus dip. I like roasted red pepper hummus
• Organic yogurt and some crackers.
• A fresh fruit smoothie.

LUNCH -

• One whole chicken salad sandwich (made with low-fat mayo, and red bell peppers, on whole wheat bread); six carrot sticks.
• Tuna sandwich with light mayo, pickles, and chopped hard boiled eggs on whole grain bread. One cup of tomato juice and some vegetable sticks or slices.
• Scrambled eggs with veggies (bell peppers, onions, broccoli, etc) and a dash of low-fat cheese. One whole grain English muffin and sliced fruit.

DINNER

• 4 ox lean turkey burger with tomatoes and lettuce on a whole wheat bun OR 4 oz turkey breast skinless and add 2 slices of Italian bread (with 2 tsp butter) to your meal. 1 cup rice; 1 1/2 cup salad (spinach and romaine lettuce, onions, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms); 3/4 cup summer squash. If this is too much food for one meal you can switch some items to an afternoon snack or lunch.
• Make veggie burritos — extra heavy on the salsa, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Add some brown rice and low-fat cheese along with some fresh fruit slices and you’ve got a great meal.
• Create a salad meal – Adding extras like cold sweet peas, oranges, raspberries, or cut fresh green beans can power up your typical lettuce and carrots. Also lean sliced chicken or a tiny handful of nuts are good for protein. On the side have a small bowl of vegetable based soup or whole grain bread.
• Spaghetti and lean turkey meatballs with tomato sauce plus a small tossed salad, one small slice of whole grain bread with garlic butter and 1/4 cantaloupe or other melon.

EVENING SNACK

• 1 cup low-fat chocolate milk and 3 oatmeal cookies.
• Gingersnaps and a cup of juice.
• Choose one guilt-free pregnancy treat.
• OR any of the snacks seen above in the mid morning snack section.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY
You also need to drink plenty of water during the day. Make sure you’re getting enough.

Toys R Us is Selling Toy Story 3 Merchandise Made with PVC

from The Soft Landing

Well, you may want to skip the Toy Story 3 action figures from Toys R Us this time around.  Even though the company made a pledge to steer away from selling toxic PVC toys, they obviously haven’t done so.  The irritating part about situations like this is that the products are unlabeled, so we parents have no clue that they may be a poor choice for younger children who mouth their toys.  Very disappointing . . .

Here’s the press release detailing the detective work done by the Ecology Center with assistance from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ) in getting the word out.

WASHINGTON, June 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — On Saturday, June 19 Teamsters, concerned parents, environmental health and consumer activists will leaflet movie theaters showing “Toy Story 3″ in more than 25 cities across America including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco,New York, Seattle, and Tampa. They will distribute comic strips and information detailing the harmful poison plastic contained in “Toy Story 3″ toys being sold at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Co’s (KKR) Toys R Us.

Independent product testing conducted by the Ecology Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., has confirmed that Toys R Us is selling “Toy Story 3″ merchandise made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl), a poison plastic. Products that tested positive include the Defender Buzz Lightyear figure, Bucket O Soldiers, Buzz and Woody figurines.

Scientific experts say that PVC is the most toxic plastic for human health and the environment and there is no safe way to manufacture, use or dispose of PVC products.  Chemicals released in PVC’s lifecycle have been linked to chronic diseases on the rise in children, impaired child development & birth defects, cancer, disruption of the endocrine system, reproductive impairment, and immune system suppression.

The demonstrators are asking Toys R Us to “End the Toxic Toy Story,” label PVC presence on all toys, and agree to a complete phase-out of the poison plastic within a clear and concrete timeframe.

Toys R Us sells hundreds of Toy Story-branded products that remain untested. Without adequate labeling, there is no way for parents to determine which of these items or the thousands of other toys at Toys R Us are laced with PVC.

“In 2008, Toys R Us set the goal of offering PVC-free products after strong consumer pressure. The company has clearly not kept its word. Toys R Us must stop toying around with our children’s health and phase out this toxic plastic,” said Mike Schade, PVC Campaign Coordinator of the Center for Health Environment & Justice. CHEJ sponsors the website, www.PVCfree.org.

The Teamsters have been active in promoting a healthy, sustainable supply chain.

“We need and deserve good jobs, a clean environment, and safe and healthy products.” said John Williams, Teamsters Warehouse Director. “We have repeatedly pointed out that Toys R Us’ owner KKR has not been acting responsibly across several of its controlled companies, and this needs to stop. Our 1.4 million members expect us to look after their wellbeing. Most have children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews. Our commitment to our members extends beyond the workplace and includes their loved ones.”

The Teamsters Union is also engaged in disputes with another controversial company, US Foodservice, which is co-owned by KKR and private equity firm Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R). US Foodservice has been cited more than 100 times by the National Labor Relations Board for violating U.S. labor laws protecting workers rights.

The Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ) is a national nonprofit organization that provides organizing and technical assistance to grassroots community organizations nationwide. CHEJ was founded in 1981 by grassroots leader Lois Gibbs and was instrumental in establishing some of the first national policies critical to protecting community health, such as the Superfund Program and Right-to-Know. CHEJ’s PVC Consumer Campaign works with grassroots community, regional, statewide, and national environmental health and justice organizations from around the United States. The campaign is focused on preventing harm by shifting decision makers from producing, using and disposing of PVC consumer products and packaging and substituting it with materials that are safe for workers, communities, children and adults.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters

RECALL ALERT: Seven Manufacturers Recall Cribs Due to Fall Hazards

from Modern Mom



The drop-side and fixed-side crib recalls announced today are of units manufactured between 2000 and 2009 by the companies listed below. Consumers should contact these firms directly for the appropriate solution.

• Child Craft, (this firm is out of business)
• Delta Enterprise Corp., of New York, N.Y.
• Evenflo, of Miamisburg, Ohio
• Jardine Enterprises, of Taipei, Taiwan
• LaJobi, of Cranbury, N.J.
• Million Dollar Baby, of Montebello, Calif.
• Simmons Juvenile Products Inc. (SJP), of New London, Wis.

Important Message from CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission):
Drop-side crib incidents can also occur due to incorrect assembly or age-related wear and tear. Age is a factor in the safety of any crib. At a minimum, CPSC staff recommends that you not use a crib that is older than 10 years. Many older cribs do not meet current voluntary standards and can have numerous safety problems.

The safest place for your baby to sleep is in a crib or bassinet depending on their age. If your crib has been recalled or it has missing, broken or loose parts, find an alternate safe sleep environment intended for a baby. If your baby is less than six months old and is not yet able to push up to his/her hands and knees, you can put your baby to sleep in a bassinet.

Do not put additional bedding such as pillows, thick quilts, comforters or anything plush into your baby’s sleeping space. More babies die every year from suffocation in plush sleeping environments than from defective cribs. Always place your baby on his or her back to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Summer Skincare DIY Tips from Soapwalla

from www.safemama.com

The creator of Soapwalla, Rachel Winard, has so graciously provided the following tips and DIY recipes for battling summer skin woes. Her product line, Soapwalla is one of my absolute favorites so I know you’ll appreciate her bountiful knowledge –   Enjoy!





It’s officially summer! That means lazy days, walks on the beach, drippy ice cream cones and blueberry-stained fingertips, as well as the accompanying – and annoying — bug bites, rashes, and sunburns. Luckily, the most effective remedies for the itchier side of summer can be found in your kitchen cupboards!
Think of the recipes below as your natural summer first-aid kit! (Please test any new ingredient on the inside of your wrist to ensure you don’t have a sensitivity or allergic reaction.)

Bug Bites

Bites and stings cause localized skin irritation, generally due to the insect venom that remains under the skin. If you or someone close to you has general swelling and/or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. This can be a life-threatening reaction and should not be taken lightly.
For the more common itchy, painful bite or sting, try the following:

• Blend a handful of cilantro with a small amount of water (2-4 Tbs). Strain the pulp and apply directly to the affected area and let sit for a few minutes. The cilantro pacifies itching.*

• For stings: mix equal parts baking soda and water to make a smooth paste. Apply directly to the bite, and let sit until completely dry. Baking soda helps neutralize the venom in the sting.

• A drop of tea tree oil on the bite or sting will disinfect the area and help prevent infection.

DIY Insect Repellent

To avoid bites in the first place, whip up this super easy and effective DIY insect repellent. This is gentle enough to be used daily, and can be reapplied as needed:

• ½ cup jojoba oil, sweet almond oil or even olive oil from your kitchen
• 10 drops each of the following essential oils: lemongrass, geranium, citronella, rosemary
• 5 drops each of the following essential oils: eucalyptus, cedar
• The oil from two Vitamin E capsules

Pour all the above in a clean and completely dry spritzer bottle, shake vigorously and let sit for 2-4 hours before use. Shake before each use, then spritz and massage into arms, legs, etc.**

Rashes

Treatment varies on type, location, and duration of rash. However, the below is a set of general guidelines and tips. If a rash lingers or is accompanied by fever, nausea or increased pain, please see a doctor.

• Hike through a nettle forest? These suckers can hurt, are nearly invisible, and scratching only makes things worse. The quickest, easiest and cheapest cure: lightly rub mud onto the affected area (you can use French green, kaolin, or red Moroccan clay mixed with water or milk, or simply grab some mud from your backyard – as long as it hasn’t been treated with pesticides). Let dry completely, then gently wash off. The mud draws out the stingers, leaving you with much happier skin!

• Apply neem oil directly onto hives, contact dermatitis, or eczema breakouts. Neem oil can be purchased from your local Indian grocery, or online at Mountain Rose Herbs.

• Try an oat bath: blend ½ cup oats in blender or food processor until finely ground (you can substitute oat flour to save a step).  Pour into running bath water, mixing with your hand to dissolve large clumps. Soak for at least 15 minutes, then gently pat dry.  For localized treatment, make a paste with oat flour and water, packing it onto the rash and gently removing with tepid water after 15 minutes.

Sunburn

A sunburn is an acute inflammation of the skin cells because of overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Sunburnt skin may blister and peel, both of which are painful and distracting.

• Pure aloe vera gel (no preservatives) or even better, the inner gel and juice from a piece of freshly cut aloe vera, can instantly ease heat and itching. Make sure to avoid the yellow sap that sometimes seeps from freshly cut aloe; use only the clear gel and liquid.  Cold aloe vera (stored in the fridge) packs a greater pain-relieving punch.

• Sunburns are severely dehydrating; make sure to drink lots ofwater as well as coconut water, which has high concentrations of potassium and electrolytes.

• Coconut oil effectively soothes burnt areas. Massage lightly into the burn directly after bathing.

• Create a healing spray by mixing 1 cup pure distilled water plus 15 drops each lavender and blue chamomile essential oils. Store in a mist bottle, shake and spray directly onto sunburned areas to relieve inflammation.**

• Add 2 cups apple cider vinegar to tepid bath water and soak for 15 minutes. Make sure you use high quality vinegar with no added chemicals or preservatives – I’m partial to Braggs’. You can also use cool vinegar compresses placed directly on particularly burnt areas.

Rachel Winard is the Brooklyn-based creator of Soapwalla, a line of luxury organic face and body products made with the highest quality organic and food-grade ingredients, never questionable additives such as sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens or harsh and synthetic additives.

*Dr. Vasant Lad, The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies.
**Basis of recipe courtesy of Organic Body Care Recipes, Stephanie Tourles

What is the Hardest Part of Being a New Mother?

from momversation.com, by Sarah Lavery



Sure, there are countless moments every day when I cherish Adelyn’s tininess, her helplessness and her irreplaceable need for me. I can’t help but think it, though. This part right here, this true infancy part, this is just me doing everything in my power to make sure she survives the day.

I should do tummy-time more, but I can’t take the crying. I should be reading to her more, but on the nights where she’s inconsolably cranky I just want her to finally fall asleep. I should be, by now, able to figure out what’s wrong at the first cry, because some moms can do this you know!  I’ve seen it. I’ve seen them soothe a baby in six seconds and laugh while they wipe throw-up out of their hair.

When Adelyn is awake and she's fed and in a good mood, my world is joyous and my spirit is high. That’s all it takes. Those moments make you forget the rest.

But I’m truly counting down the days when I can be a creative mother, not just one who feeds, burps and rocks. I want to teach her things. I want to listen to her ask questions and answer brilliantly.

Adelyn is napping in her swing, going on an hour and a half. About twenty minutes ago I tip-toed into the living room to grab a phone number I’d left on the coffee table and just the sound of the piece of paper rustling against my fingers woke her. Great, she spent all yesterday not napping and being terribly unhappy.

And if she doesn’t get a good hour and a half nap this morning I’m in for a repeat. I stood still for a moment, out of her eyesight (if she sees me the nap is done for, she starts squuueeee!-ing instantly).

But then Addy just reached her little hand up and scratched a spot on her head. She did it again. Then a third time, and she turned her head to the side and fell back asleep.

I cannot explain how remarkable it was to witness that. It was the first time I’ve seen my daughter react to something that was irking her by fixing it herself. Her head itched so she scratched it. It still itched so she scratched some more.

This is what I’m excited for, teaching her how to fix these little things. It might be getting easier, this mothering stuff. Or maybe I, too, am learning all my lessons.

Do you push your favorite books on your kids?

from MOMformation, Posted by Betsy Shaw


It’s a miracle.

After a long, painful period in which Isla, age 4, rejected any stories about boys or about animals, which essentially left us in princess hell, she’s starting to come around.

And I have seized this opportunity to shove all my favorite childhood books down her throat whether she likes them or not.

So far so good: I just finished reading Curious George Goes to the Hospital, twice. I was so pleased when she asked to hear it again. A cheeky monkey is refreshing after having been on a A Book of Princesses marathon for four months running.

But the real reason I’m so pleased is based on pure nostalgia. Curious George books were my favorite books when I was a kid. Something about the adorable round-headed, naughty, cuteness of that little monkey, and the way he managed to get away with the craziest things and have everyone forgive him in the end, still speaks to me.

And now, Hallelujah, Curious George, rather than Snow White, is speaking to my four-year-old daughter, too.

So what’s next on the list of old favorites?
Little Runner of the Long House, by Betty White
One Morning in Maine, by Robert McCloskey
Winnie the Pooh, by A.A. Milne
Blueberries for Sal, by Robert McCloskey
House on 88th street (Lyle, Lyle Crocodile), by Bernard Waber
And a few I didn’t read as a child, but just love:
Roxaboxen, by Barbara Cooney
Miss Rumphius, by Barbara Cooney
Burt Dow Deep Water Man, by Robert McCloskey
All the Alfie books, by Shirley Hughes
Other favorites I’ve already read to Esther, starting the minute she seemed remotely ready for chapter books:
The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis
Stuart Little, by E.B. White
Little House on the Prairie, by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Cricket in Times Square, by George Selden
The Trumpeter Swan, by E.B. White

What were your favorite books as a kid? Do you, or do you plan to, read them to your kids or do you not have a nostalgic agenda like I do? nd…. most of these books I have been reading to Esther I read myself when I was a bit older. Am I cheating her by reading them to her and not letting her discover them for herself?

Recalls - Infant Apparel Recalled by Kiwi Industries, Regal Lager Infant Carriers

Infant Apparel Recalled by Kiwi Industries Due to Choking Hazard

Click HERE to read the entire recall and see pictures from CPSC

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: Infant onesies and rompers

Units: About 450

Manufacturer: Holtrop & McIndoo LLC dba Kiwi Industries, of Albuquerque, N.M.

Hazard: Snaps on the onesies and rompers can detach from the garment, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received two reports of snaps detaching. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The onesies and rompers were sold in eight colors and prints: eggplant with kiwi green binding, floral print with eggplant binding, kiwi green with eggplant binding, pacific blue with kiwi green binding, crisscross print and kiwi green with pacific blue binding. The onesies were sold in sizes 0 to 3 months up to 12 to 18 months. The rompers were sold in sizes 0 to 3 months up to 18 to 24 months. “Kiwi industries” is printed on a tag sewn inside the garment’s collar.

Sold at: Children’s specialty stores nationwide from March 2010 through May 2010 for between $24 and $28.

Manufactured in: U.S.A.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the garments and contact Kiwi Industries for an exchange. The firm will provide a postage-free package for the return of the recalled garment.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Kiwi Industries toll-free at (877) 509-4891 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s website at www.kiwiindustries.com. Consumers can also email the firm at info@kiwiindustries.com

Regal Lager Recalls Infant Carriers Due to Fall Hazard

Click HERE to read the full recall notice on CSPC



WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following product. Consumers should stop using products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of product: CYBEX 2.GO Infant Carriers

Units: About 2,700 in the United States and 400 in Canada

Distributor: Regal Lager Inc., of Kennesaw, Ga.

Hazard: A shoulder strap slider buckle can break, posing a fall hazard to babies.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of broken buckles. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves CYBEX 2.GO infant carriers. "CYBEX" is embroidered on the fabric covering on the top of the head support. "2.GO" is printed on an orange tag near the head support. They were sold in the following colors: chili, indigo, purple and slate.

Sold at: Baby furniture and baby product stores nationwide, and on various websites, from August 2009 through April 2010 for about $100.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled carriers and contact Regal Lager to receive a free replacement carrier.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Regal Lager at (866) 678-8940 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, visit the firm’s website at www.regallager.com/recalls or email the firm at info@regallager.com

Note: Health Canada's press release is available at http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/recall-retrait-eng.jsp?re_id=1071

Healthy Food Blogs Worth Drooling Over

from Mindful Momma

Nothing gets my mouth watering more than a plate full of healthy food.  Maybe it's age, but I'm more likely to load up on a healthy meal and pass on dessert these days.  It's not that I don't love me a good fattening dessert because believe me, I do.  But serious cravings for things like sauteed greens, roasted beets and brown rice send me into a cooking frenzy.  Has this happened to you too?
A lot of my cooking inspiration comes from food blogs.  Most of the time, I'm not even looking for a recipe, but I check out the blogs for ideas, inspiration and new food combos.  Like mixing black beans with mango and cilantro or roasted carrots with honey, butter & apple cider vinegar. That kind of thing.
Would you like to see some of the food blogs I've been drooling over lately?


Sprouted Kitchen - The collaboration of a gal (Sara) and her boy (Hugh) who both have a major passion for veggies, Sprouted Kitchen is my go-to blog for healthy food porn.  I really do drool over the photos (taken by Hugh) and I love that they don't just show the finished product, they showcase the ingredients and often include step-by-step photo instructions for making the dish. (I'd love to show you a photo or two here - but they keep them protected (smart move!) - so you'll have to just go to the blog and see for yourself.)




Kath Eats Real Food - This lively blogger named Kath loves to talk about all things healthy.  Mostly food but other stuff too like exercise and life-in-general.  My favorite part of her blog is the Tribute to Oatmeal where she shares her special instructions for making extra creamy oatmeal and goes on to show us an amazing number of oatmeal variations including oatmeal with peanut butter, oatmeal with pumpkin and oatmeal with spinach, yep spinach!! (haven't tried it yet but I'm awfully curious)




Herbivoracious - Seattle Dad, Michael Natkin whips up mouthwatering vegetarian meals for his family and is kind enough to share them on his blog.  His recipes really run the gamut....from Smoky Macaroni & Cheese to Chana Masala (spicy chickpeas) to these Crispy Polenta Cakes with Braised Cabbage & Beans.  Serious drooling going on here. 



Dana Treat - Another Seattle vegetarian, Dana is a professional caterer and personal chef.  I dig her healthy recipes as well as her 'treats' (when she cooks for a family, she always provides a treat - how fun is that?) This Spring Risotto looks awfully good too. 

Simply Sugar and Gluten Free - When I do get a craving for something sweet I prefer it to be healthier than the typical decadent dessert.  That's why I've been stalking this blog for fabulous deserts made healthier.  Trust me, these Almond Butter Blondies are totally delish - even though they are sugar and gluten free!

Brown vs. White Rice (for babies): A Fork in the Road

from Dr. Greene



It’s time to change America’s first food. What if white rice helped trigger diabetes and brown rice helped to prevent it, regardless of lifestyle? That's just what a 2010 Harvard study suggests. Brown rice is a delicious whole food, packed with flavor and with protective nutrients. But all of the sugar-stabilizing fiber and all of the essential fatty acids are stripped out to make polished white rice, along with most of the magnesium, iron, B vitamins, and lignans, and half of the phosphorus and manganese. To make baby food rice cereal, the white rice is even further processed. And this depleted, out-of-balance, processed white flour becomes the eagerly-anticipated first bite of solids for most babies in the US.

How we feed babies in those early days matters for years to come. Most core food preferences are learned during critical early windows of opportunity (see Feeding Baby Green). In America we have raised a generation where most children learn to get zero servings of whole grains daily by the time they are 18 to 24 months old.

One in three babies born today is expected to develop diabetes in their lifetime, unless something dramatic changes. If we just made the simple switch from white rice to brown rice for babies we might cultivate a taste for whole grains and prevent millions and millions of people from developing diabetes.

For that very first bite of solids, though, I prefer choosing something that doesn’t come in a box or jar. Let your baby see a real whole food in its natural state, something she’s seen you eat before, such as a banana or an avocado. Let her handle the whole food. Let her smell it. Let her see you eat some, and then let her see you mash up a bit, perhaps with some breast milk. If you are nursing, she will already have experienced the flavor in your breast milk before.

Her strong desire to imitate you and to learn from you, coupled with this powerful combination of seeing, tasting, smelling, and touch creates a profound learning experience that is deeply satisfying and fun. Let a whole food mark this momentous occasion – or a whole grain cereal. But not processed white flour rice cereal.

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health analyzed rice eating and diabetes in about 200,000 people. Those who ate white rice 5 or more times a week had a 17% increased risk of type 2 diabetes compared with those who ate it less than once a month. Separately, those who ate 2 or more servings of brown rice a week had an 11 % decrease of type 2 diabetes. But the biggest difference came in those who chose brown rice or another whole grain instead of white rice – with up to a 36% reduced risk.

If we have a future population of 300 million in the US, with 100 million expected to develop diabetes, a 36% reduced risk represents a huge savings of life, limb, eyesight, money and health.

Shortly after babies begin to walk, neophobia begins to set in, the fear of new flavors, textures, or sources of food. Let’s teach a love for whole grains (and other whole foods) while they are still so eager to learn!

Read more: http://www.drgreene.com/blog/2010/06/15/brown-vs-white-rice-fork-road#ixzz0r3AugcgU

Hurray, It’s a Giveaway! SmartMom Teething Bling

 

I swear moms are the most ingenious people out there!  Yet another fabulous product created by moms Kendra and Amy in 2002…the SmartMom Teething Bling.

This adorable pendant is not only fashionable but it’s also a teething toy for your little one!  How many times have you been standing in line, sitting on an airplane, sitting in church, or any place else with your baby when she wanted something to chew on?  Instead of your hair, your keys, your cell phone, or their hands (which have been who knows where), you can just let them chew away on your necklace!  How convenient is that?!?

SmartMom uses only the highest-quality, phthalate-free, federally approved silicone in our Teething Bling® line. The material is non-toxic, latex-free, food–safe, even dishwasher-friendly! It is the same silicone used in many other popular teething products and SGS test reports are available upon request. Although they stress that this is adult jewelry not intended for children to wear, all of their pendants come with a breakaway clasp as an added safety feature.

I have to confess.  SmartMom was so sweet to send me a Teething Bling to try out and even though my son is well past the teething stage I’ve been wearing my Bling all the time!  It seems to be the perfect accessory for my summer dresses. :)  I love it!

And as if cute, stylish, and convenient aren’t enough, in honor of the many mothers and children who inspire daily, SmartMom donates from their profits to these worthy organizations:
http://www.curesearch.org
http://www.dressforsuccess.org
(in special memory of Maria Jankowski Maurer)

SmartMom has expanded their product line to include coordinating bangle bracelets and other fun items like Shakespeare quoted onesies and tween bling for older kids.  Check it all out at www.smartmomjewelry.com!

Enter to win!

To be eligible to win a SmartMom Teething Bling (in the light blue/Lapis Lazuli color pictured above) just send an email to abby@littlemiraclesbabyplanning.com with the subject “Smartmom” and tell me what you love about this product and why you would like to win.  Contest ends Monday June 21th at noon est.

Lead Found in Children’s Foods and Baby Foods

from Environmental Law Foundation

I find this press release to be very disturbing!  You will find in this list even several organic brands and popular, normally safe, brands like Trader Joes.  Here’s another link with similar info.  Be sure to check out the list below and throw out any these you may have at home.

On June 9, 2010 the Environmental Law Foundation (“ELF”) filed Notices of Violation of California Proposition 65 Toxics Right to Know law, alleging the toxic chemical lead was found in a variety of children’s and baby foods. The specific food categories included apple juice, grape juice, packaged pears and peaches (including baby food), and fruit cocktail. A complete list of the companies and products named appears with the notice and is located on the ELF website.

LEAD-TAINTED PRODUCTS
1. 365 Everyday Value Organic 100% Juice Concord Grapes
2. Beech Nut 100% Apple Juice
3. Best Yet Bartlett Pear Halves in Heavy Syrup
4. Best Yet Chunky Mixed Fruit in Pear Juice
5. Best Yet Yellow Cling Peach Halves in Heavy Syrup
6. Chef's Review Fruit Cocktail
7. Del Monte 100% Juice Fruit Cocktail
8. Del Monte Chunky Mixed Fruit in 100% Juice (peach, pear, grape, etc.)
9. Del Monte Diced Pears in Light Syrup
10. Del Monte Freestone Peach Slices in 100% Juice
11. Del Monte Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup (peach, pear, grapes)
12. Del Monte Fruit Cocktail No Sugar Added
13. Del Monte Lite Fruit Cocktail in Extra Light Syrup
14. Del Monte Pear Halves in Heavy Syrup
15. Del Monte Pear Halves, Bartlett Pears in 100% real fruit juice
from concentrate
16. Del Monte Sliced Yellow Cling Peaches in 100% Juice
17. Del Monte Sliced Yellow Cling Peaches in heavy syrup
18. Dole Diced Peaches, Yellow Cling in light syrup
19. Dole Mixed Fruit in Light Syrup
20. Dole Pear Halves in Juice
21. Earth's Best Organics Apple Juice
22. Eating Right Fruit Cocktail packed in Sucralose
23. Eating Right No Sugar Fruit Cocktail
24. First Street 100% Apple Cider from concentrate
25. First Street Apple Juice from concentrate 100% juice
26. First Street Diced Pears
27. First Street Fruit Cocktail in heavy syrup
28. First Street Grape Juice from concentrate 100% juice
29. First Street Sliced Bartlett
30. First Street Yellow Cling Peaches in heavy syrup
31. Full Circle Organic Apple Juice
32. Full Circle Organic Bartlett Pear Slices
33. Gerber 100% Juice - White Grape Juice
34. Gerber 100% Juice Apple Juice
35. Gerber 3rd Foods Peaches
36. Gerber 3rd Foods Pears
37. Golden Star Mixed Fruit in Light Syrup (peach, pineapple, pears)
38. Golden Star Peach Halves in Heavy Syrup
39. Great Value 100% Grape Juice
40. Great Value 100% No Sugar Added Apple Juice
41. Great Value Bartlett Pear Halves in 100% Juice
42. Great Value Bartlett Sliced Pears in Heavy Syrup
43. Great Value No Sugar Added Fruit Cocktail
44. Great Value Yellow Cling Sliced Peaches
45. Hansen's Natural Apple Juice
46. Kedem Concord Grape Juice 100% pure grape juice
47. Kroger 100% Juice Apple Juice
48. Kroger Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup
49. Kroger Grape Juice 100% Juice
50. Kroger Lite Fruit Cocktail in Pear Juice
51. Kroger Value Fruit Mix (Peaches, pears, grapes)
52. Langers Apple Juice 100% Juice
53. Langers Grape Juice (Concord)
54. Langers Red Grape Juice
55. Libby's Fruit Cocktail No Sugar Added (Sweetened with Splenda)
56. Libby's Yellow Cling Peach Slices No Sugar Added (Sweetened with
Splenda)
57. Market Pantry Diced Peaches in light syrup
58. Market Pantry Diced Pears in light syrup
59. Market Pantry Mixed Fruit in light syrup
60. Maxx Value Fruit Mix in Light Syrup (peach, pear, grape)
61. Maxx Value Pear Pieces in Light Syrup
62. Minute Maid Juice Apple - 100% Apple Juice
63. Motts 100% Apple Juice
64. Mrs. Brown's Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup (peaches, pears, grap
es)
65. O Organics Organic Grape Juice from concentrate
66. O Organics Organic Unfiltered Apple Juice Not From Concentrate
67. Old Orchard 100% Apple Juice
68. Parade 100% Juice Apple
69. Polar Mixed Fruit
70. Polar Peach Slices
71. Polar Pear Halves in light syrup
72. R.W. Knudsen Just Concord Grape Juice
73. R.W. Knudsen Organic Just Concord
74. Raley's 100% Grape Juice
75. Raley's Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup
76. Raley's Premium 100% Apple Juice not from Concentrate
77. Raley's Sliced Yellow Cling Peaches in Heavy Syrup
78. S&W Natural Style Fruit Cocktail in Lightly Sweetened Juice
79. S&W Natural Style Pear Slices in Juice
80. S&W Natural Style Yellow Cling Peach Slices in Lightly
Sweetened Juice
81. S&W Premium Peach Halves Yellow Cling Peaches in light syrup
82. S&W Sun Pears Premium
83. Safeway 100% Juice Apple Cider
84. Safeway 100% Juice Apple Juice
85. Safeway 100% Juice Grape Juice
86. Safeway Diced Peaches in Light Syrup
87. Safeway Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup
88. Safeway Light Sugar Fruit Cocktail
89. Safeway Lite Bartlett Pear Halves in Pear Juice
90. Safeway Lite Fruit Cocktail in Pear Juice
91. Safeway Organic Grape Juice
92. Safeway Pear Halves in Light Juice
93. Safeway Yellow Cling Peach Slices in Pear Juice
94. Santa Cruz Organic Concord Grape Juice
95. Simple Value Yellow Cling Peaches in light syrup
96. Stater Bros. 100% Juice Apple Juice
97. Stater Bros. 100% Juice Grape Juice
98. Stater Bros. 100% Juice White Grape Juice
99. Stater Bros. Fruit Cocktail in Heavy Syrup
100. Stater Bros. Yellow Cling Peach Halves
101. Stater Bros. Yellow Cling Sliced Peaches in heavy syrup
102. Sunny Select 100% Apple Juice
103. Sunny Select 100% Grape Juice
104. Sunny Select Fruit Cocktail in Juice
105. Sunny Select Pear Halves in Pear Juice
106. Sunny Select Yellow Cling Sliced Peaches in Pear Juice
107. Trader Joe's Certified Organic Apple Juice, pasteurized
108. Trader Joe's Concord Grape Juice made from fress pressed organi
c concord grapes
109. Trader Joe's Pear Halves in white grape juice
110. Trader Joe's Yellow Cling Peach Halves in while grape juice
111. Tree Top 100% Juice Apple Cider
112. Tree Top 100% Juice, Grape
113. Truitt Brothers Pacific NorthWest Bartlett Pear Halves, in pear
juice from concentrate
114. Valu Time Grape Drink from Concentrate
115. Valu Time Irregular Bartlett Pear Slices
116. Valu Time Yellow Cling Peach Slices
117. Walgreens Apple Juice from concentrate 100% juice
118. Walgreens Grape Juice from concentrate 100% juice
119. Walnut Acres Organic Concord Grape
120. Walnut Grove Market 100% Apple Juice
121. Walnut Grove Market Grape Juice
122. Walnut Grove Market Natural Peaches Sliced Yellow Cling in
Light Syrup
123. Walnut Grove Market Natural Pear Halves in Heavy Syrup
124. Welch's 100% Grape Juice (from Welch's Concord Grapes)
125. Welch's 100% Red Grape Juice from Concentrate

10 Car Seat Safety Secrets and Best Car Seats for Baby

from Parents




Car Seat Safety Made Easy


Seven out of 10 kids riding in child safety seats are improperly buckled in, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). How do you select the right restraint for your child? We've compiled answers to your most pressing questions.

Why is rear-facing the best for a Baby?
Kids should always ride rear-facing, in the backseat, for optimal protection. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends this until children are at least 20 pounds and age 1 or older. "That's at a minimum," says Dr. Bull, a child-passenger safety consultant with the AAP.

When should my child not ride rear-facing?
Only if he's too small to ride safely in the semi-reclined position of an infant carrier. All carriers have minimum weight requirements -- most are at 5 pounds, although a few brands go down to 4 pounds.

What types do I have to choose from?
Infant Car Seat: the infant carrier conveniently snaps into a stationary base (5 - 22 lbs).
 
Convertible Seat: ride rear- or forward-facing (rear-facing up to 35 lbs; forward-facing up to 60 lbs).
 
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children): uses no seatbelt and exists in all cars made after September 2002 -- the base of an infant carrier or the bottom of a convertible seat clips onto a bar or built-in hooks on a vehicle's seat.

Which is better: LATCH or a seat belt?
"You should decide based on ease of use," says Kristy Arbogast, PhD, a biomechanical engineer at the Center for Injury Research and Prevention at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "Choose whichever you'll use correctly each time and gives you the best fit."

Who can help me install a car seat?
A certified child-passenger safety technician (CPST) can check the installation for you. An appointment will last about 30 minutes. Just make sure to try installing the seat yourself first (so you can get a rudimentary understanding of how it works).

How much do CPST appointments cost?
They're free! Go to seatcheck.org and type in your zip code to find the nearest inspection locations -- there are more than 33,000 CPSTs nationwide. Appointment slots can fill up quickly, so call early to schedule.

What's the safest car seat location?
The center of the backseat is by far the safest. But if your middle seat has a hump and you can't tightly install the base, it's best to put the seat on one of the side seats (many cars only have LATCH on the sides). A child should never ride in the front - an inflated air bag can be fatal for little ones.

Are expensive seats safer?
Definitely not. All seats on the market have met the federal government's safety standards. More expensive seats may have added features, but they're not necessarily safer. Experts point out that you should avoid car accessories, because they haven't been crash-tested.

When can my child ride in a booster?
At around age 4 and at 40 pounds. A booster provides less protection than a convertible car seat, so if your convertible can hold a child up to 65 pounds, keep her in it as long as possible.
Originally published in the August 2009 issue of American Baby magazine.

Best Car Seats for Babies and Toddlers

Going for a ride? Keep baby as safe and comfy as possible in one of these cool car seats.



Infant Car Seat: Graco Snugride 32
The country's best-selling seat now holds a rear-facing baby up to 32 pounds and fits most strollers ($140; gracobaby.com).



Infant Car Seat: Chicco Keyfit 30
This highly rated seat is one of the simplest to install; it holds a rear-facing baby up to 30 pounds ($190; chiccousa.com).
Some earlier models of Chicco Keyfit 30 car seats were recalled in June 2008. Check your model #s here.



Infant Car Seat: Maxi-Cosi Mico
The Europeans know how to make a seat both functional (really lightweight!) and fashion forward ($170; rightstart.com).



All-in-One Car Seat: Evenflo Symphony Surelatch
The adjustable harness and side-impact protection are good; that it carries up to 100 pounds is great ($200; evenflo.com).



Convertible Car Seat: Britax Boulevard CS
A harness for a kid up to 65 pounds means this lasts through preschool; it has side-impact protection ($330; britaxusa.com).
Some earlier models of Britax Boulevard car seats were recalled in November 2006. Check your model #s here.



Infant Car Seat: Britax Companion
This infant car seat features enhanced side-impact protection in two ways: There's a special head pad as well as energy-absorbing foam built into the seat around baby's head and torso. The patented "anti-rebound" bar on the end helps keep the seat stable in the event of an accident ($170; for babies 4 to 22 pounds).



Infant Car Seat: Evenflo Embrace
Evenflo's unique Z-shaped handle helps make this new, affordable car seat easy to carry around ($70-$100; for babies 5 to 22 pounds).
Some earlier models of Evenflo Embrace car seats were recalled in May 2007. Check your model #s here.


Infant Car Seat: Combi Tyro II
Cushioned mesh fabric keeps baby cool and comfortable. Energy-absorbing foam in the head area adds protection ($150; for babies up to 22 pounds).



Convertible Car Seat: Britax Marathon
This popular, expert-respected convertible seat gets high marks for being user-friendly. For instance, the harness straps are built to never tangle ($250; for babies 5 to 33 pounds rear-facing, and from 20 to 65 pounds forward-facing).
Some earlier models of Britax Marathon car seats were recalled in October 2007. Check your model #s here.




Convertible Car Seat: Graco ComfortSport
This is one of the few convertible seats that come with a headrest for smaller babies. Special padding in the seat conforms to baby's body for added comfort ($80-$120 depending on fabric and features; for babies up to 30 pounds rear-facing, and from 20 to 40 pounds forward-facing).
Some earlier models of Graco ComfortSport car seats were recalled in December 2008. Check your model #s here.
Some earlier models of Graco ComfortSport car seats were recalled in January 2008. Check your model #s here.
Some earlier models of Graco ComfortSport car seats were recalled in August 2007. Check your model #s here.



Booster Seat: Safety 1st Intera
This revolutionary seat has a long life! It starts as a convertible car seat for babies and toddlers. Then the back comes off and the base serves as a preschooler's booster seat ($140; for babies 5 to 35 pounds rear-facing, 20 to 40 pounds forward-facing, and 30 to 100 pounds as a booster).
Originally published in the January 2009 and March 2005 issues of American Baby magazine.

The Case for Cloth

Why the latest reusable diapers deserve a chance in your diaper bag!

by Anna Getty from pregnancy360.com


At a certain point in every pregnancy (usually toward the end), moms-to-be have to decide which diapers they’ll use on their baby: cloth or disposable? Yes, there are pros and cons to both. If you’re a staunch environmentalist you might say that cloth are best, although new information shows that biodegradable disposables may be the greenest option.

But I won’t go into that here. What I will do is make a case for cloth diapers: How they’ve evolved from simple pre-folds and safety pins to convenient systems you definitely want to consider.

When my first child was born almost six years ago, I decided to try a brand of organic cotton fleece diapers called Fuzzi Bunz (www.fuzzibunzworld.com). Cloth diapers have been around for centuries (even primitive ones made of animal skin!), but the traditional pre-fold invented in the ’50s had been the standard up until the past decade, when a boom in washable diaper brands and styles began.

At first, I used these new cloth diapers because I wanted to keep disposables out of the landfill. But in the long run, I discovered I preferred cloth because I could tell so quickly when my daughter was wet. At night, when she’d squirm as she slept, I knew it was time for a change. I also found that there were fewer rashes and fewer blowouts with cloth.

One drawback: I wasn’t crazy about the bulky plastic cover the diapers came with. But these diapers have changed even since I started cloth diapering. Fuzzi Bunz and many other companies now make sleeker covers from wool and cotton fleece in adorable prints. They’ve also come up with “all-in-ones,” so the cover and the diaper are one piece, just like disposables. These systems are often one-size-fits-all, with adjustable snaps that allow you to make the diapers bigger as baby grows, so you can use the same set for months, even years.
With some systems, even having to do laundry isn’t a problem, because you can reuse the outer shell several times before washing. Hybrid diapers even feature washable cloth pants with biodegradable, disposable, or flushable inserts.

Now there are so many options that make it easier to be eco-friendly and do the best for your baby.

Today's Cool Cloth
Flip One-Size Diaper Cover in Grasshopper and Stay-Dry Insert
($17, www.cottonbabies.com)

The latest invention from BumGenius, makers of a popular all-in-one, does them proud. The one-size cover fits babies from 7 to 35 pounds; for most diaper changes, reuse the cover and replace only the insert.
Smartipants Single Diaper in Mellow Yellow
($15, www.smartipants.com)

No soiled inserts to fuss over with this adjustable diaper. The inner-sleeve design means you can just drop the whole mess in the laundry. Easy!
GroVia Shell Set in Seaside Stripe
($27, www.thenaturalbabyco.com)

The quick-dry mesh lining and organic cotton pads make this adjustable diaper my current fave. The company sells biodegradable inserts that are helpful when you’re on the go.

20 Best-Ever Potty Training Tips (from real moms)

from Parents.com



Are you counting down the days to the toilet transition? Or maybe you've already dabbled in a few less-than-successful attempts? Either way, we heard one thing again and again: Your kid has to be good and ready. And don't worry, he will be someday. "No child is going to graduate high school in diapers," says Carol Stevenson, a mom of three from Stevenson Ranch, California, who trained each one at a different age. "But it's so easy to get hung up and worried that your child's a certain age and not there yet, which adds so much pressure and turns it into a battle." Once you're convinced your kid's ready to ditch the diapers (watch for signs like showing an interest in the bathroom, telling you when she has to go, or wanting to be changed promptly after pooping), try any of these tricks to make it easier.

All About the Bribes

Two words: Mini M&M's! Promise that each time your kid goes potty, she gets two or three, but if she wipes herself (a huge challenge for us) then she gets four or five. This makes a big difference since I think one of the reasons kids don't like to go is because the business of learning to wipe is kind of yucky.
-- Donna Johnson; Charlotte, North Carolina
I wholeheartedly recommend bribery as potty training motivation: We kept a small plastic piggy bank in the bathroom and rewarded every success (one penny for pee, two for poop). Our daughter was entranced -- she would shake the piggy with a gleam in her eye and remark how heavy it was getting. When she was all done, we took her potty windfall and turned it into quarters to spend on rides at the mall.
-- Lisa Spicer; Los Angeles, California

Daddy Does It

After a couple of failed attempts, I tried a new technique while Mom was away on a well-deserved weekend with her friends. We covered the couch and chairs with plastic and bought "manly-man" underwear -- just like Dad's. We spent the weekend in underwear and T-shirts, making a game every hour or so to see who could go to the restroom. There were very few accidents and just blocking out a weekend made for very little stress. It's still one of my favorite memories.
-- Scott Smith; Mount Washington, Kentucky

Target Practice

Getting my son to learn the standing-up thing was hard, so we turned it into a game. I put five Cheerios in the potty and told him to aim at them when he peed. Every time he did it right, he got to pick out a prize from a bag of goodies I picked up at the dollar store. -- Erika Cosentino; Lawrenceville, New Jersey

Heap on the Praise

I've heard all the tricks -- stickers, bribing with toys, special underpants. But you have to pick something that's consistent with your parenting style. I didn't use rewards elsewhere, so I didn't want to start here. What did work: Lots of undivided attention, positive reinforcement, love, affection and pride when my kids were successful. Making a big deal about small steps of progress is key.
-- Diane Hund; Elmhurst, Illinois


I didn't use any special stuff -- no kiddie toilets, potty rings, or even pull-ups -- because the local YMCA where my daughters attended didn't believe in them. We even had to sign a contract stating that we'd follow their potty training policy at home. I was instructed to just put the kids (they were around 2 1/2) on our regular toilet throughout the day when I thought they had to go. After a week and lots of "Yeah! You did number two!" and "Good for you! You made a wee-wee!" they were done, with barely any accidents. All told, I think they were just developmentally ready.
-- Sandra Gordon; Weston, Connecticut

Little White Lies

My middle son was stubborn when it came to #2 on the potty -- absolutely refused, no matter the reward. So I finally told him that when we flush, the poop goes out to the sea to feed the fish -- so if he didn't go, then the poor little fish wouldn't have anything to eat. My son, being the compassionate, sensitive little do-gooder he is, felt it was his mission to poop to "save" the fish. (After all, Nemo and Dory were counting on him!)
-- Liane Worthington; Simpson, Pennsylvania

What's the Frequency?

I wish I could take credit for his training, but the amazing teachers at his daycare did the hard stuff: Putting him on the toilet every 20 minutes, without fail. We just followed their lead at home. And I think the fact that he saw his classmates going on the potty made him want to also.
-- Roberta Perry; Phoenixville, Pennsylvania


We found that our son simply was not interested in remembering to go on his own, so we found the Potty Watch, which he loved. You program this wrist watch to play songs and light up at 30-, 60-, or 90-minute intervals; then it resets itself and starts the countdown all over again.
-- Heather Ledeboer; Athol, Idaho

The Naked Truth

Once my kids were interested in the potty concept -- around 2 to 2 1/2 -- we let them run around naked before bathtime and encouraged them to use the potty. Then I let them go sans pants at home for extended periods of time (they did really well remembering to go as long as they didn't have any clothes on). After they mastered naked-potty use, we worked our way up to clothes (first just underwear, then eventually pants). This method was extremely painless -- very few accidents or setbacks.
-- Jennifer Walker; Cleveland, Ohio

Figuring Out the Fear

Our first son began peeing on the potty at 18 months, but he was scared to do "the other." After offering many rewards and becoming very frustrated, we turned to the doctor, who explained that some children view bowel movements as a literal part of themselves and are afraid to watch them flush away. (This made so much sense because he was a very analytical child.) After showing him a children's anatomy book and explaining how the digestive system worked, he started going #2 the very next day!
-- Ginny Graham; Collegeville, Pennsylvania

Sticker Shock

Every time each of our toddlers used the potty, I decorated their outfits with stickers. At the end of the day they showed off their rows of stickers (which looked like an army general's stars) to their father. So they got double the praise for their potty training successes, and I got an inexpensive and easy way to reward them.
-- Jen Singer; Kinnelon, New Jersey

Patience Is a Virtue

When I thought my daughter was ready (around 26 months), we went to the toilet every 10 minutes -- even if we were out. We slowly worked up to 15 minutes, 20 minutes, etc., and after a day or two, she could pee on her own. Poop was a different story -- I had to goad her with M&M's!
-- Elissa Murnick; Fairfield, Connecticut


My son mastered peeing on the potty pretty quickly, but nailing #2 took some extra effort. At first we had to watch for his "cues" to tell he was trying to go poop and then bring him to the bathroom. Because it took a while (sometimes more than a half-hour) we started reading to him to make the wait more fun. But above all else, patience, patience, patience is the key!
-- Karen J. Wright; Mankato, Minnesota

Find the Right Bribe

We tried Cheerios, M&M's, potty charts, cheerleader rants and screams, but nothing worked. My son has always been obsessed with cars and trucks and luckily, the movie Cars had just come out. My husband scoured the local stores to collect all the figurines featured in the movie. We saw the movie, then we told my son that every time he went potty he'd get a car. It was magical. After 15 cars, he was totally potty trained. I'm sure Disney would be so proud.
-- Darlene Fiske; Austin, Texas

Go for Broke

Just go cold turkey. My 2-year-old seemed ready for potty training but none of the "tricks" were working. We picked a Saturday, put him in big-boy underwear and braced ourselves. He went in his pants four or five times within the first hour; we kept changing him and telling him that he needed to use the potty instead. After a really long day, he got the hang of it and was all potty trained by Monday. He still had the occasional accident, but making the switch once and for all really seemed to work.
-- Pamela Scott; York, Pennsylvania

Location, Location, Location

We found that the kiddie lids that go on top of the toilet were too intimidating to use right away. (Plus, since they usually need a step stool, it can take too long for children to reach the toilet in time.) So I started my 2-year-old daughter with a mini-Elmo potty seat, which we kept in the living room, since she spent the most time there. We gradually moved it closer and closer to the bathroom, and eventually worked our way up to a Dora seat that went right on top of the toilet.
-- Tracy Burton; Grand Ledge, Michigan

On the Road

My daughter was terrified of the automatic flushers in public restrooms, so I started doing this trick. Put a Post-It note over the sensor and it will prevent the toilet from auto-flushing. After she's all done, wiped, and left the stall, you can remove the paper to let the toilet flush.
-- Tracy Marines; Lancaster, Pennsylvania


We travel with a small toilet with a removable seat to help my daughter feel more comfortable on the "scary" big potties in public restrooms.
-- Christine Louise Hohlbaum; Paunzhausen, Germany

Ways Expand Your Picky Eater's Taste Buds

from Parents.com



As an 8-month-old, your child ate mashed peas and carrots by the mouthful. But now that she's a toddler, she's staging a vegetable strike -- and would happily eat grilled cheese at every meal. How did mealtime go from a cute mess to an epic battle?

"Pickiness usually starts around 18 months and can last well into the school years," says Jennifer Shu, M.D., a Parents advisor and coauthor of Food Fights. "It's a time when kids tend to form their own likes and especially dislikes."

The best way to expand your child's palate? "Get her involved in meal decisions -- at the market, in the kitchen, at the dinner table," says Amy Hendel, author of Fat Families, Thin Families. You can also be more playful with your food prep, hide veggies in foods she likes, and more. Since there are many types of pickiness, you'll need to figure out what works for your child. The key: Keep trying.

8 Rules for Dealing With a Kid Who's Fussy About Food

Don't label him "picky." This is waving the white flag, and it reinforces his stubborn, attention-getting behavior.
Give your child choices. Asking "Would you like raw or cooked carrots?" makes him feel more invested in the meal.
Avoid substitutions. Serving your child something else will make her hold out longer next time to get what she wants.
Make this deal with your child. He must take one bite, but after that he may say, "No, thank you" to more.
Steer clear of bribes. If you offer chips or a sweet for trying a food, your child will expect a reward every time.
Go the stealth route. Add pureed veggies to spaghetti sauce your child likes. Then let her know she's eaten them and "survived." Gradually make the puree chunkier.
Practice what you preach. You've got to set a good eating example. After all, you can't snack on corn chips and expect your child to munch on baby carrots.
Treat "no" as a temporary answer. "It may take 15 times before she'll try a food and maybe even like it," says Dr. Shu.

10 Healthy Food Ideas Your Child Might Love

Fruit Parfait Spoon: layers of fat-free yogurt, fruit, and crushed cereal into a nonbreakable ice-cream dish.
Blind Taste Test: Cut up veggies, blindfold your child, and have him taste them. See if he can guess what each one is
Smoothie: Mix fruit with juice or fat-free yogurt or milk, Your kid will get a kick out of watching the color change.
Quickie Pizza: Let your child put tomato sauce and shredded cheese on a tortilla. Add veggies. Then toast and serve.
Extraordinary Eggs: Lay cookie cutters on a frying pan, fill with egg mixture, then sprinkle in veggies with your child.
Homemade Fruit Pops: Pour juice into ice-pop trays. Drop in chopped-up berries and oranges. Add a stick, then freeze.
Veggie Tic-Tac-Toe: Play this three-across game on a paper plate (so you can draw the grid) with cut-up veggies. Then munch away.
Waffle Face: Have your child create a silly face (or pattern) with strawberry or banana slices. It works with pancakes too.
Pepper Bowl: Fill a hollowed bell pepper with chicken salad or hummus. Slice up some carrot sticks for dipping.
Frozen Fruit: Icy grapes and blueberries are more fun than fresh ones because they seem like Popsicles, not fruit.

5 Kitchen Skills Toddlers Can Learn

1. Tearing lettuce.
2. Steadying a mixing bowl while you pour.
3. Washing fruit.
4. Handing you a nonbreakable measuring cup.
5. Stirring the ingredients (with your help).

6 Clever Tricks for Getting Your Closed-Minded Eater to Open Wide

1. Talk up tastes At family gatherings, mention how much you like the food (and have an older sibling or cousin do the same). "Hearing your enthusiasm may encourage your child to take a bite of something unfamiliar," says Hendel.
2. Work with your kid, not against her At every meal, include one dish you know your child will eat. She's more likely to try collard greens if she knows she can fall back on sliced turkey.
3. Give him a say Let each family member pick a preferred entree (or side dish) once a week. Ask your child: "Do you want chicken tomorrow? Should we use the slow cooker?" If he can't decide, ask if he'd like to search online together for a new recipe you can try.
4. Be creative about nutritious treats Dessert doesn't have to consist of empty calories. The next time your child asks for ice cream, set up a DIY banana-split bar with low-fat frozen yogurt, fresh fruit, and a little cereal sprinkled on top.
5. Eat breakfast for dinner Even picky kids tend to like whole-wheat toast with low-fat cream cheese, fortified cereal, and scrambled eggs. So let yours end the day with "brinner" now and then -- as long as he'll eat the peach slices on his waffle.
6. Make veggies sound cool One study from Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, found that when carrots were called "X-ray vision carrots," 4-year-olds on average ate nearly twice as many of them. So serve up some "power peas" and "zany zucchini."

9 Ways to Make Food Shopping More Fun

1. Focus on touch. Have your child hold a big, dimply orange or a fuzzy little kiwi. Ask her to describe how it feels, looks, and smells.
2. Let your child make some noise. Give him a box of pasta to shake, and then point out the difference between regular and whole-wheat pasta ("See, this one is darker and has more good stuff in it").
3. Look at labels. Once your preschooler recognizes numbers up to ten, have her pick the cereal with the most fiber (you'll need to point at the label for her). Say, "Fiber helps you poop better."
4. Be a tour guide. Point out all the food aisles, then say, "I like the produce area best, because fruits and veggies help you grow big and strong."
5. Offer choices. Ask if you should buy apples or mangoes for a snack. Also let him pick some new veggies for the family to try.
6. Play the color game. See if your child can find three kinds of purple produce (such as grapes, eggplant, cabbage, or potatoes).
7. Try a sample table. Your child is more likely to eat something if he sees other people lining up for a bite.
8. Check out a local farmers' market. Most vendors will be happy to talk to kids about their harvest.
9. Take a whiff. Vegetable stands are great places to have your child sniff garlic, green onions, cilantro, and mint. Ask him, "Do you think this would make our tuna salad taste better?"

Fixes for Common Picky-Eater

The Scenario: She eats only white foods, such as bread and pasta.
The Advice: Add some color to the mix. Stir a little pureed spinach into your child's bowl of mac 'n' cheese and say, "We're making it green today. It's like mixing paint." Getting her over the color hump may make her more open-minded about trying other foods in the future.
The Scenario: He wants food prepared only one way, like chicken in nugget form or potatoes as fries.
The Advice: "Adjust how you prepare foods to make them healthier," says Dr. Shu. Cut broiled chicken into a chunk and say, "This is a different type of chicken nugget. Try it." Or switch from regular to baked fries and then transition to baked potatoes.
The Scenario: Your child refuses to eat an entire food group, like fruit.
The Advice: Take inspiration from foods your child likes. If he eats Froot Loops, slice up oranges, blueberries, or strawberries, and add plain yogurt to mimic the colorful bowl of cereal. Instead of setting out his favorite pretzel rods, offer carrot sticks along with a bowl of salsa or ranch dressing.
Originally published in the February 2010 issue of Parents magazine.

There's no place like home for babies to pick up toxins

from USA Today


By Liz Szabo, USA TODAY

A crawling baby learns about her world with every step, building her muscles as she discovers the difference between smooth bathroom tiles and squishy living room rugs. To her burgeoning taste buds, both taste great.
But research shows that babies pick up more than new skills as they explore their environments.

Infants may take in two to five times as much household dust as adults, even though they weigh only one-eighth as much, says Alan Greene, a pediatrician at Stanford University's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Because of that dust, babies are more likely to be exposed to pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals inside the home than outside, he says.

Children younger than 2 are also more vulnerable to toxins than adults because they're still developing, Greene says. On average, children that age who are exposed to a carcinogen are 10 times more likely than an adult to develop cancer, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

"It's a sound assumption that we should be 10 times more careful with children," Greene says.

Pediatrician Harvey Karp, author of The Happiest Baby on the Block, suggests parents open their windows to ventilate the air once a day, if weather permits. He notes that indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, partly because of solvents and other chemicals found in paint, flooring, rugs, furniture and dry cleaning.
Yet toxic exposures often start long before babies can crawl. Babies today are typically born "pre-polluted," exposed to potential carcinogens even before birth, a report by the President's Cancer Panel said in May.

CANCER PANEL: Toxins cause 'grievous harm'
CARCINOGENS: Found in child bath products
GREEN CLEANING: Readers test methods

In a study of umbilical cord blood by the Environmental Working Group, researchers found 180 carcinogens in babies and 217 chemicals that were toxic to the brain or nervous system.

The American Cancer Society estimates that about 6% of cancer deaths — nearly 34,000 a year — are caused by environmental pollutants.

Because so little research has been done on cancer and the environment, it's possible the true number of pollution-related cancer deaths is actually much higher, the President's Cancer Panel says.

Hurray, It’s a Giveaway! The Modern Baby Company Organic Clothing

I bought a Modern Baby Company onesie recently and was so in love with it that I had to contact them for a giveaway!  They were so nice to send me a giraffe onesie (pictured above) as well as several of their mini art cards (pictured above).  They just came out with a whole new line that includes modern designs in bright colors of various animals.  Their last line included stunning crib sheet sets  and blankets and I hope they bring those back!

About The Modern Baby Co:
As parents we understand the need for kid friendly, fun and practical children's products. We believe in the possibility of bringing sophistication and modernism to parenting by providing stylish color pallets and clean, simple designs. We also believe in taking steps towards offering eco-conscious items at affordable prices. This is why we choose to work with USA based printing companies, provide a line of baby apparel that is created with eco-friendly inks, and limit our packaging to only that which is necessary. We take pride in our ethics, partners and the quality of our product line. At The Modern Baby Co., we look forward to sharing our enthusiasm for beautiful modern design with you.

I <heart> The Modern Baby Company because it was founded and created by a mom, and because it produces eco-friendly and adorable products for baby.  Visit their website or blog for more information.

Enter to Win!

To be eligible to win a Modern Baby giraffe onesie (size 12 months) and matching mini art cards, simply send an email to abby@littlemiraclesbabyplanning.com with the subject “Modern Baby.”  Contest ends Tuesday June 8th at 12 noon est.