If you are concerned that your baby might have a fever, the best way to check for one is to use a rectal thermometer. This can be a simple procedure that is not too uncomfortable for your little one.

1. If your baby is hot to the touch and feels warm when you kiss his or her forehead, you might want to check to see if there is a fever. This can most accurately be done with a rectal thermometer. It is important that you purchase a thermometer that has a rounded bulb and is specifically termed a rectal thermometer. Read the rest of this entry »

Many of my friends are pretty impressed that I’ve managed to get my 6-month old baby to sleep independently (meaning, no mommy around most of the time – no helper either OK?).  She will be bathed, fed, burped and put down in her cot ALONE and AWAKE and will eventually drift off to sleep.

I am writing this post as a continuation of a previous post “Kids Need Sleep“.  So if you’re new to this post, I’d suggest reading that first to get a better understanding of my very strong position on sleep and children – although the title itself already states it. Read the rest of this entry »

All babies are born with the ability to suck, however, most of the time a newborn needs to be taught how to breast feed. New mothers often feel discouraged or alone in this adventure. Breast feeding can be frustrating or it can be the most enjoyable experience. Taking the time to learn the proper technique will make both you a baby enjoy the Breast feeding experience.

1. Make sure you are in a comfortable position. If you aren’t comfortable, then the baby won’t be either. Sometimes it helps to sit in a rocking chair or lay sideways on a bed.
   You might also try playing some relaxing music and dimming the lights. Read the rest of this entry »

One of the greatest challenges for any new parent is getting their baby to sleep throughout the night. This is very difficult at first, as the baby has to make a transition from sleeping with his mother to sleeping on his own. Like anything else in life, this isn’t something that happens instantly – it takes time for your child to learn how to do this.

There are some things you can do, however, that will create a better environment for your baby to fall asleep in. While you ultimately can’t control when or how your baby sleeps, you can, in many ways, stack the deck in your favor. Read the rest of this entry »