Childcare
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Not All Cloth Diaper End in Soggy Leaky Messes
The days of langots/nappies are long gone, especially since those things couldn’t handle even one tiny tinkle. Making that switch to modern cloth diapers looks like the obvious choice, but first let’s acknowledge their limitations. Most common modern diapers in the market today can only hold up for a couple of hours before unleashing a soggy disaster.
But fear not, with the latest advancements in design and technology, Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers are here to save the day (and night!). These saviours can handle even the heaviest of sleepers, lasting all night long without any leaks.
We’re here to address your biggest concerns with ordinary modern cloth diapers – the leaks! So, keep reading to learn more!
Leak-proofing for the win!
No one wants their baby wet, unhappy or cranky. And definitely not deal with a soaking wet outfit or pee puddles. In modern cloth diapers, an improper fit is what causes these leaks frequently.
A perfect snug fitting is what ensures ace leak-prevention. A diaper’s fit around the leg area is the most important criteria to consider here. Make sure you select a free size modern cloth diaper that allows you to adjust & get snug fit it around your baby’s legs and waist without being too tight.
The best in this game are the Charlie Banana’s cloth diapers as they come with a Smart Leg Adjuster inside the pocket on both sides. This can be an adjuster depending on baby’s weight to provide that perfect fit to prevent leaks. This mechanism is unique and it is the only cloth diaper brand in India to have it.
The other thing that matters is the outer material of the cloth diaper & the waist fit. So look for modern cloth diapers with a water resistant shell. Some snap buttons around the waist also help ensure the mess remains within the diaper, with no dripping at any point.
And when it comes to this, Charlie Banana’s Free Size cloth diapers collection is all you need. The Smart Leg Adjuster is a unique feature to ensure proper fitting. Alongside, we have the water-resistant shell and waist snaps to guarantee that 360 Leakage Prevention. So, you won’t have to worry about any unexpected accidents. Yay for leak-free days ahead!
Handling Poop-splosions in Cloth Diapers
Let’s move on to discuss the dreaded poop-splosion. We’ve all been there – you’re out and about with your little one, and suddenly there’s a mess that seems to defy gravity. But fear not, modern cloth diapers can handle even that.
The simplest trick is to use a cloth diaper that is well-fitted around legs and has the right back elastic. This helpsprevent any esca’pees’ and esca’poos’ from the back. Charlie Banana’s Modern Cloth Diapers comes real handy here. Their wide back elastic, helps mould it to the little one’s antics and helps prevents poop blow-outs!
Moms, we hear you loud and clear! You need cloth diapers that can handle leaks and take care of your little one’s overnight load. All of this without it turning into a soggy, leaky mess. We get it, no one wants to wake up to a wet bed or a fussy baby.
To ensure this, we know that not all cloth diapers are created equal. When it comes to overnight absorption, there are a few key factors that a good cloth diaper should have.
The insert material should be ultra-absorbent. Look for cloth diapers that have multiple layers of absorbent materials like terry. Don’t forget the top layer should be fleece, so while it soaks up a lot of liquid it also keeps your baby feeling dry all night long.
When it comes to overnight diapering, don’t settle for anything less than the best. That’s why we recommend Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers. These beauties can absorb all night long with ease. No need to fuss with complicated setups of one insert + booster. Charlie Banana’s Cloth Diapers come with two inserts. Where each one has up to 5 layers of fleece and ultra-absorbent terry materials, ensuring the perfect fit and super comfort.
Say goodbye to leaky diapers and hello to a good comfortable night’s sleep.
Let’s Go Back to the Basics- But without worrying about Leakages
Cloth diapering is not a thing of the past in India, it’s a tradition that has been passed down for generations. They are incredibly soft and safe for baby’s skin, so definitely they have been a top pick. Who thought that cloth diapering brands will step up their game and make it leak proof too?
With the new 360 leak prevention driven by India’s 1st Smart Leg Adjuster, Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers are the perfect solution for anyone looking to get back to basics without worrying about leakages. Plus, the ultra-soft premium fleece materials are perfect for those hot Indian summers. As we talk summers, you’ll love their vibrant colours too.
And oh so cute prints! There’s nothing cuter than seeing your little one’s bottom in a cute and colourful cloth diaper. So why not give Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers a try and see how it works for you and your little one. Who knows, you may become a cloth diapering expert like thousands of parents with their baby’s best interests at heart!
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Dysfunctional Family – Roles, Signs & Characteristics
Every person who grows up in a family knows that each one has its own dynamics. The formative years of a child’s life, and the environment in which they grow up, have a direct impact on how they function as an individual. If the family is caught up in the cycle of dysfunction, they often face serious abusive issues like alcohol abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, and emotional abuse. This environment is quite toxic for children, and the children of these families tend to carry on the cycle of dysfunction into their own lives and further into their own families.
In this article, we have covered some tips to overcome the negative effects of a dysfunctional family. Let’s read!
What Is a Dysfunctional Family?
Let’s take a look at dysfunctional families meaning.
A family is dysfunctional when conflict, neglect, and misbehaviour are constant and everlasting. Modern psychology defines dysfunctional families as those with anxious systems within them. There is a tremendous amount of emotional disturbance within the family members, and it sometimes means that it is coupled with child neglect and abuse. Children from dysfunctional families assume that this situation is normal, as they are exposed to that environment regularly, and do not know the different aspects of dealing with a dysfunctional family.
A functional family, on the other hand, encourages all family members to attain optimal growth, and provides a safe space for emotional well-being.
Dysfunctional Families Example
Let’s read about examples of some dysfunctional families. It includes chaos, abuse, and neglect among family members.
If there is a one-parent drinking problem in the house and that parent comes home drunk and physically abuses any member of the family. The next day, that parent says that whatever happened yesterday should stay between them and anyone should not know about it.
Suppose one or both parents are addicted to drugs. In such cases, the eldest child takes responsibility for the younger ones and tries to make things better at home.
A single mother treats her eldest child like a best friend and a confidant. The mother relies on the eldest child for her emotional needs and doesn’t like it when the child goes out and socialises with their friends.
What Are the Types Of Dysfunctional Families?
Here are the types of dysfunctional families:
1. The Pathological Family
In this type of dysfunctional family, one or both parents abuse drugs or alcohol or suffer from mental illness, leaving the family dysfunctional. A child’s pathological family tends not to have their basic physical or emotional needs met. These family members generally have reversed roles.
The family roles in these households are usually reversed, i.e. the children are more in charge of their own daily lives, as their dysfunctional parents are unable to do so.
2. The Dominant Submissive Family
A family of a dictator parent, where there is no regard for the wishes or feelings of the other family members. The dominant parent in this type of family is demanding but gives little back in terms of support, love, and positive reinforcement.
3. The Chronic Conflict Family
In this type of family, arguments and disputes are the norms. The family members argue in harmful ways that leave wounds festering and result in bitterness in the family environment. Generally, communication problems lead to feuds, fighting, resentment, and stress, causing havoc in the home.
4. The Chaotic Family
In a chaotic family, the children are poorly looked after or protected because the parents are busy, non-present, or abusive. Inconsistency is constant in such households. The parents frequently come and go out of the home or are incarcerated.
Relationships Between Dysfunctional Family Members
In a dysfunctional family, there is often apathy, child abuse, and neglect involved to some degree. Children who come from dysfunctional families often have low self-confidence or low self-esteem, and grow up thinking that such behaviour is normal. Dysfunctional families have adverse effects on child development.
In a functional family, there is mutual respect between family members, and everyone has each other’s back. In dysfunctional families, there is tension and mistrust among the parents and children. Also, the authority of the parents in the family is often misguided and without accountability. Even among adults, there is a certain level of mistrust and resentment. The family members do not create a safe surrounding for a child to grow. There is underlying fear and hurt constantly while growing up. Also, dysfunctional families do not value apologies, and do not allow for emotions to be expressed reasonably.
Reasons for Dysfunctionality in a Family
No family is perfect, and you do not get to choose the family you are born into or are raised in. There are many reasons, both external and internal, that lead to dysfunctional families. Here are some traits of a dysfunctional family:
1. Finances
If a family is undergoing or has been in exceptionally poor financial situations, then it puts extra pressure on the mental health of the adults. This pressure could easily turn into toxic stress, which leads to more dysfunctional behaviour within the family members. As soon as the family is facing money issues, the parents get anxious, and it leads to cracks in the family structure, thereby leading to fights and disharmony.
2. Family History of Dysfunction
If, for many generations, there has been a history of family dysfunction, and at least one parent’s dynamics with their own parents is also dysfunctional, then the cycle remains unbroken. All the family members exhibit characteristics of someone raised in a dysfunctional family.
3. Violence
A history of violence – either physical, emotional, or sexual – leads to fear, destructive behaviour, and violence between the parents and towards the children.
4. Overly Religious Belief Systems
If a family has strong religious beliefs, with no room for conversation, debate, or explanations, it can lead to the parents trying to enforce the same set of beliefs on their children. Parents might become strict without reason or purely on the basis of their fundamental opinion, and this can lead to dysfunctionality.
5. Authority
A reason for a dysfunctional family could be parents getting pushy, aggressively authoritative, and tyrannical in their behaviour; this leads to over possessiveness and dislike amongst members.
6. Medical Problems
If a parent is physically ill, they might rely on their children to care for them and their health. This can cause anxiety and depression in children. Additionally, if one of the children is ill and is not cared for, it may cause that child to grow up to invalidate their illnesses.
7. Mental Illness
If a family member is not mentally sound and experiencing trauma disorders, anxiety, or depression, they may act unhealthily toward their family.
8. Addiction
If a parent or any other member of the family has a substance addiction, gambling, or psychological addiction, this may lead to co-dependency, with caretakers spending excessive amounts of time, energy, and other resources on the person who’s addicted. At times, children have to take up the role of a caretaker.
9. Excessive Control Attempt
If the caregiver has an excessive need to control their kids or partner, they fail to help children develop a healthy sense of autonomy. Resulting in children not feeling self-confident.
10. Constant Criticism
Criticism may run rampant in a dysfunctional family, with parents chastising everything the child says or does. Sometimes, parents may even take a more subtle approach by using sarcasm, insults, or teasing their children, which results in emotional abuse.
Signs You Were Raised in a Dysfunctional Family
Often, it may become difficult to deduce if you come from a dysfunctional family, but here are some signs of a dysfunctional family for you:
1. You are a people-pleaser
If you find yourself constantly trying to say yes to people and do anything in your power to please them, then it could be a sign that you are from a dysfunctional family. If you are nice for the sake of being nice, and sacrifice personal needs to make others happy, it may be a sign. This is because as a child, you might have been made to believe that you will be abandoned.
2. You are a Type A person
If you crave perfection in everything you do, it may be because you are afraid of failure, which may be a result of growing up in a dysfunctional family.
3. You are constantly guilty
As an adult, if you feel guilty for other people’s situations or behaviour, neither of which are under your control, then it may be a sign. You feel guilty when people feel upset, even if you are in no way responsible for it.
4. You lack communication skills
If you do not know how to communicate emotions in a healthy way with friends and family, and you tend to shut down and not address them, then chances are, you have been in a dysfunctional family.
5. You feel responsible for others
When others make their own decisions, and you are not accountable for them, you still feel a sense of responsibility for what has transpired, especially when the situation is bad.
6. You are hard on yourself
No matter what you do or achieve, you are your harshest critic, and you always criticise yourself first. You think that anything that goes wrong is inevitably your fault in some way.
7. You have high levels of anxiety
Even when it’s all smooth sailing, you are always worried that something will go wrong, leading to a high level of anxiety. Consequently, you are never able to enjoy yourself.
8. You feel isolated and empty
As a result of constant isolation or lack of emotional support as a child, you feel unfulfilled and empty. You constantly seek affection, and you are afraid to be alone.
9. You are frustrated.
No matter how good your life is, you can always pinpoint something that is wrong, and you are dissatisfied. You feel like your efforts go unappreciated all the time.
10. You feel anguish.
A feeling of hopelessness and anguish exists in your everyday life, despite no dire circumstances. You have negative thoughts, and look at life from a pessimistic perspective.
Common Characteristics of Dysfunctional Families
Dysfunctional families have several characteristics in common, which showcase the unfortunate dynamics between family members, and their attitude towards each other.
This is what it looks like to be in a dysfunctional family:
1. Lack of Communication
Members of a dysfunctional family do not know how to openly communicate with one another, and often have serious communication problems. They sweep issues under the carpet, and never discuss them. They do not create a healthy environment for discussions, and often shout or have screaming fights. Family members do not listen to each other, and usually resort to other ways of communication.
2. Lacking Empathy
In a family which is dysfunctional, there is no empathy, or very little of it. Children will end up feeling bad about themselves. There is no unconditional love, and issues are always subjected to behaviour corrections, even when it’s not necessary or the child has made only a small mistake. There is no room for error, which creates a claustrophobic environment, which leads to a constant fear of failure in children.
3. Prone to Addiction
Children who have witnessed their parents being addicted to drugs, smoking or alcohol, often as adults end up using such substances to cope with life.
4. Mental Issues
Children who grow up watching adults around them suffering from mental illnesses and personality disorders often do not know how to cope or behave like adults. They also have a tendency to suffer from the same illnesses, due to a genetic predisposition.
5. Controlling Behaviour
Sometimes, when parents exert excessive control in their children’s lives, stifling their ability to grow, they also end up not encouraging good behaviour. This kind of control can lead to self-doubt in children when it comes to their abilities, and also creates trust issues.
6. Perfectionism
Parents often end up putting pressure on their kids to perform, and when that pressure becomes excessive, it leads to dysfunctional behaviour in them. Fear of failure is triggered, and the children inevitably grow up to be perfectionists.
7. Criticism
Children growing up in a dysfunctional family are constantly criticised for their abilities – or lack of them – and are berated for all their actions. Parents are often condescending, patronising, and mean, instilling a sense of helplessness and lack of belief in the child, leading to low self-esteem.
8. Lack of Independence and Privacy
Parents may constantly invade a child’s privacy, and smother them to ensure that they have zero independence when it comes to decisions in a dysfunctional family. They need to check at all times what the kids are doing, and do not have honest communication or rules about it.
9. No Emotional Support
There is no room for emotions or support for members of a dysfunctional family. There is no safe space provided for children to express their emotions clearly and in a positive manner. Kids often grow up lonely or isolated from their parents in this situation.
10. Violence and Abuse
Parents in a dysfunctional family may resort to abuse of the child. There may be signs of verbal, physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in children who come from dysfunctional families. Children observe this as normal, and showcase the same behaviour as adults later.
11. Unpredictability and Fear
When children are not sure how their parents are going to respond, or there is uncertainty or fear, they constantly anticipate conflict and can’t express themselves honestly.
Dysfunctional Family Roles
Let’s take a look at the family roles in dysfunctional families.
1. Golden Child
The golden child of the family is the obedient, high achiever who the parents always revere and brag about. The problematic parent thinks of them as wonderful person because of their golden child. But the child chooses the role as an escape path and uses their success to shield them from abuse and criticism. The golden children are generally racked with anxiety and depression and can even suffer severe nervous breakdowns at least once or develop eating disorders.
2. Black Sheep
This is the child upon whom all the blame for family problems falls. They may act out or show disobedience and even simply be the effect of illness, mental health issues, or other “abnormal” features that draw attention. These types of behaviours are seen as the source of problems in the family.
3. Lost Child
When the attention of the family is taken up by the golden child or black sheep, the lost child receives less attention and often feels left behind. This leaves the lost child with strong feelings of loneliness and cravings for love and attention. They learn to take care of themselves and do not need or want anything from anyone.
4. Peacemaker
The peacemaker can be found in the middle of arguments. This child may get pulled into taking sides between opposing parents, like in the case of a divorce. The role of a peacemaker requires them not to have personal needs or become confrontational themselves but instead to always be “reading the room” to identify how others are feeling and adjust accordingly.
5. Mascot
The mascot of the family is the one who lightens the mood when things start getting tense. They’re funny and make jokes. In adult years, the mascot may face difficulty connecting with negative emotions or conflict, instead deflecting with humour.
6. Caretaker
They are the ones who take on the responsibilities of others in the family and try to save them from the consequences they might face. Usually, their desire is well-intentioned, but it causes more harm, as the child is unable to face the consequences of their actions and learn from their mistakes.
7. Doer
This member of the family acts and gets things done. As adults, the doers struggle to rest and are constantly exhausted. They may become angry or resentful because they struggle to say no.
Effects of Growing Up in a Dysfunctional Family
Growing up in a dysfunctional family affects the children in the family. Mistrust, anxiety, despise, and other negative emotions lead to the making of a very insecure adult.
Certain common behaviour patterns can be observed in people who come from a dysfunctional family, such as:
They have a bad image of themselves, and they suffer from low self-confidence and self-esteem.
They find it difficult to form healthy adult relationships, and are shy or have a personality disorder.
They get angry frequently and easily, and prefer to be in isolation.
Their academic performance is usually poor, as they struggle to concentrate and focus.
They exhibit self-harm or self-destructive behaviour.
They are prone to addiction to alcohol, drugs, or smoking.
They can suffer from mental health issues such as depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, paranoia, etc.
They may lack discipline due to lack of a role model to look up to while growing up, and can become irresponsible or destructive.
They can also lose their childlike qualities of innocence, as they have to take major responsibilities at an early age.
Tips to Overcome the Negative Effects of a Dysfunctional Family
Once you have identified if you come from a dysfunctional family, the first step is to acknowledge and recognise behaviours and habits in yourself that have grown out of being in a dysfunctional family. As an adult, you are surviving the effects of being brought up in such an environment. So, the question of how to overcome growing up in a dysfunctional family might arise. There are many ways to deal with it, such as:
1. Take Responsibility
As adults, you have a choice to overcome your circumstances, and work towards creating a healthy emotional situation. It is important to take responsibility for your actions, and learn how to meet the expectations that are set for you by yourself and your family.
2. Seek Help
Once you recognise any behaviours or habits that are harmful, it is important to seek professional help, or help in some form, to fix them. Dealing with low self-confidence can be a difficult thing, and it always helps to have the support of family and friends.
3. Get Creative
Sometimes, conflicting situations can make way for creativity and expression. If you want to overcome the negative effects of a dysfunctional family, express yourself in a healthy way to your family and close ones. Share your thoughts, and discuss how you can rebuild relationships.
4. Build Trust
It is not easy to grow up in a place where trust is hard to come by among the adults you have seen around you. As a child, if you have seen your parents be mistrustful, that is a tendency that you will carry into your adulthood. With time and patience, learn to build trust among your closest ones.
5. Build Bridges With Your Family
Families that are dysfunctional are emotionally unstable, and as adults, you have the choice to build (or rebuild) a relationship that is broken. Start with baby steps, and try to forgive and support your family wherever you can.
6. Family Therapy
Family counselling can be beneficial in breaking dysfunctional patterns and rebuilding functional families.
7. Educate Yourself About Dysfunctional Family
We all know that education about any topic is the real key to progress. You can get better chances of understanding your family’s dysfunction, and your place in it.
FAQs
1. Is Dysfunctional Family Toxic?
Yes, a dysfunctional family can be toxic for children as these families are often caught in the cycle of dysfunction and face serious abusive issues like alcohol abuse, drug abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse.
2. What Are Some Effective Ways to Break the Dysfunctional Family?
Family or individual counselling from a professional therapist can be helpful in identifying dysfunctional family patterns. The therapist can help with some ways to break the dysfunctional family.
3. Do Dysfunctional Families Change?
Dysfunctional families can be fixed with some love, cooperation and responsibility.
No matter the kind of upbringing you have had, there is always an opportunity as an adult to reflect upon and improve yourself, and to have meaningful relationships with people.
References/Resources:
1. Basem Abbas Al Ubaidi; Cost of Growing up in Dysfunctional Family; http://clinmedjournals.org/; http://clinmedjournals.org/articles/jfmdp/journal-of-family-medicine-and-disease-prevention-jfmdp-3-059.php?jid=jfmdp; July 2017
2. Dealing with Difficult Family Relationships; helpguide.org; https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/dealing-with-difficult-family-relationships.htm
3. Treating Adults from Dysfunctional Families; dhss.delaware.gov; https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dsamh/files/si09_1317_txadultsfromdysfunctfamilies.pdf
4. Is my family dysfunctional?; screening.mhanational.org; https://screening.mhanational.org/content/my-family-dysfunctional/?layout=actions_e
5. The Dysfunctional Family; ashleytreatment.org; https://www.ashleytreatment.org/rehab-blog/the-dysfunctional-family/
Also Read:
Impacts of Parents Fighting on Child
Is Living in Joint Family Good for your Child?
Why Role of Family is Important in Child’s Development?
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Ayurvedic Baby Products That a New Mom Should Be Aware of for Her Baby's Health
Your newborn is home now, and your days and nights are spent taking care of him. Your world pretty much revolves around your baby and every little movement or sound he makes has you alert and on your toes. It’s only natural that you worry about your baby’s health and well-being to a point of obsession, especially in the first few months.
Your baby’s immune system is still developing, and his chances of catching infections and experiencing health problems are slightly higher; so your concern is valid. Finding fixes will come naturally with time. But we’re here to simplify some of it. Some of the common health issues seen in babies can be tackled quite effectively with Ayurveda.
Here, we will be discussing three health problems that are common in babies, and how they can be managed with Ayurvedic remedies.
1. Colic
If your baby cries for no apparent reason, chances are he could have colic or gripe. As a new parent, you may find it difficult to associate your baby’s frequent bouts of crying with colic. But if your baby cries more than usual, and is healthy, wearing a clean-diaper, and well-fed, chances are it could be due to colic.
The exact cause of colic is not known, but some theories behind it suggest that it could occur due to gas, stomach ailments, overstimulation by light or sound, a growing digestive system, etc. Baby colic passes in time, but if you have a colicky baby, you can help him feel better with Ayurvedic remedies.
What you can do!
Gripe water is a sought-after remedy for gas and tummy-related troubles in babies. Gripe water is usually an over-the-counter liquid containing ingredients like sodium bicarbonate and herbs like fennel, ginger, lemon balm, or peppermint, etc. The ingredients may differ depending on the formula. Along with providing relief from stomach ailments, it may also help with teething pain and colic.
If your baby has tummy troubles often, Dabur’s gripe water may help. Dabur Gripe Water contains Ayurvedic ingredients like Sarjikakshara and Mishreya Tail, which help soothe a stomach ache and provide relief baby from common intestinal ailments like gas, acidity, and indigestion. You may give it daily to your teething baby to soothe teething troubles. Dabur Gripe water is usually recommended for babies aged 0-2 years.
2. Digestion-related Issues and Gut Health
Some babies may not have a bowel movement for a day or two while others may experience indigestion, loose motions, or digestive ailments. All these problems often arise due to poor digestive health. But such digestion-related issues can be managed!
Find out how!
For digestive health, many parents give Janma ghunti to their babies. Janma ghunti is a popular Ayurvedic medicine which is trusted by parents. It is known to soothe stomach ailments such as constipation, loose stools, vomiting, indigestion, etc., that may sometimes even occur due to teething. Dabur Janma Ghunti, enriched with the goodness of traditional Ayurvedic ingredients like anjeer, kishmish, amaltas, vach madhu, etc., helps tone up the digestive system of a baby and can thereby help in his overall growth. It is recommended for babies from aged one month and above. If your little one is constipated or has other digestive health issues, you may give him Dabur Janma Ghunti.
3. Healthy Physical Growth
The foundation of bone health is laid in childhood. If you’re a parent to a newborn, you must help promote your baby’s bone and muscular development, as little ones are born with weak muscles and bones. Healthy muscles and bones are an indicator of overall health. If your baby has good muscular strength and healthy bones, chances are he will learn to crawl, walk, and run about faster!
Let’s look at how you can strengthen your baby’s bones and muscles!
Breast milk is good for a baby’s bone health. But if your baby has started on solids, you can include foods rich in calcium, Vitamin D, and protein in his diet for bone and muscle development, and get him started on developmentally-appropriate exercises as recommended by your baby’s doctor. And there’s something else you can to do (or continue with) for your baby’s physical and overall development: massaging your baby using good oil and the right technique.
Massaging offers a host of health benefits to a baby; it can help a baby gain weight, improve his sleep quality, develop his bones, strengthen his muscles, keep his skin moisturized, etc. It can also help a parent bond with the baby. But choosing an oil that contains ‘baby-safe’ ingredients is important.
Ayurvedic oil like Dabur Lal Tail, enriched with herbs, can help keep your baby’s skin soft and nourished. It contains natural herbs like ratanjot, shankhpushpi, sesame oil, karpura, and urad in fair proportions, which help in the physical growth of babies. It’s safe to use and effective too!
Ratanjot, an antioxidant-rich herb, which gives this oil its unique crimson red colour, is good for skin health. It helps soothe and protect a baby’s skin. Shankhpushpi helps nourishes the baby’s skin and imparts a healthy glow to it. Sesame oil strengthens the muscles and bones while making the skin soft and supple, karpura helps stimulates blood flow to the body and helps with pain relief, and urad helps nourishes and make the muscles stronger.
Dabur Lal Tail is dermatologically-tested for safety and is a popular choice among parents. This oil is clinically tested to boost physical growth twice as fast!
Colic and other stomach-related ailments, and bone and muscle issues, are common concerns in babies. Most of the time, these can be managed at home with the gentle touch of Ayurveda. Natural herbs can work wonders for your baby’s health; if your baby experiences any of the above health issues, you may turn to traditions and use these Ayurvedic products to help him through these and grow faster.
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Have a Seat, Mom!
This Mother’s Day, it’s your turn to pause.
From the crack of dawn, until the little ones are tucked in, moms are on the move. In fact, even the racing thoughts before bedtime are far too many when you’re a mother.
Days look like packing lunchboxes with one hand while replying to work emails with the other. Coordinating school drop-offs, tackling deadlines, organising doctor appointments, planning meals, wiping spills, and somehow still remembering where everyone’s missing sock is.
It’s a rhythm of selfless multitasking that plays on repeat, day after day.
Moms do it all with strength, with grace, and with barely a moment to catch their breath. Often, their needs take a back seat to everyone else’s. Skincare routines become afterthoughts. Quiet time becomes a luxury. And rest? That’s usually reserved for another day.
We see you. And this Mother’s Day, we’re here to say you deserve to rest.
You deserve to press pause, not just on the chores and the calendar, but on the pressure to be everything to everyone, all the time. You deserve five quiet minutes with your coffee while it’s still hot. A moment of skincare that feels like self-care. A break from the “what’s next?” to sit down, exhale, and just be.
And while you do, let Cetaphil Baby help lighten your load. With its gentle, dermatologist-tested formulas made especially for delicate baby skin, you can rest assured that your little one is getting the best care even when you take a moment to breathe. Whether it’s bath time, moisturising, or post-play clean-ups, the Cetaphil Baby range steps in as your trusted partner, giving you one less thing to worry about. Because your peace of mind matters, too.
Because rest is not a reward it’s a right.
So here’s to the moms who hold it all together, even when they feel like they’re falling apart. The moms who love fiercely work endlessly and show up day after day with compassion, courage, and an unwavering commitment to their families.
This Mother’s Day, we invite you to have a seat. Take a long bath. Apply that moisturiser slowly. Let someone else handle the dishes. Let go of guilt for wanting rest.
And while you take that moment, remember to indulge in calming rituals that reset your body and mind. Something as simple as gentle foot massages before bed, an indulgent slice of chocolate cake… or pampering your skin with products that nurture you, too. Just like you can trust Cetaphil Baby to care for your little one’s skin, the adult skincare range is here to offer the same gentle, nourishing touch for you.
Because showing up for yourself is the first step in showing up for everyone else.
Happy Mother’s Day!
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Baby Skin in Winter – Keeping Eczema and Dry Skin Away!
Along with a festive spirit, winter brings biting winds and skin issues, primarily in the form of dryness and eczema. Babies have supple yet more sensitive skin than adults, so it becomes crucial for parents to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their baby’s delicate skin. Layering them with multiple clothes won’t do the trick; your cutie patootie needs a dedicated winter skincare routine and nourishment from within to keep them cosy through the season!
Catching the Culprit
Harsh weather, including cold winds and low humidity levels, can unapologetically strip away your baby’s natural skin moisture, leaving them dry and irritated. Indoor heating systems, on the other hand, further contribute to dehydration. The lack of moisture in the air with inadequate hydration creates the perfect storm for skin troubles.
One of the infamous skin troubles babies experience is eczema. During winters, the ideal skin pH 5.5, which helps maintain the skin barrier, ultimately preventing any bacterial growth and keeping it hydrated gets disrupted. When the skin is not protected, eczema increases the skin’s pH level, thereby weakening the skin barrier and leaving it dehydrated, itchy, and inflamed. And, we all know, how stressful those itches and inflammation can be for young babies. Thus, maintaining the skin pH level using pH-balanced products is crucial in managing eczema.
Fret not, for we have devised a perfect winter skincare routine for your snuggle bunny!
Building a Winter Skincare Routine: Essential Winter Skincare Tips
A baby’s skin is a marvel, soft as a feather and gentle as a lamb. To ensure it is well cared for, here are some winter practices and advice you must not shy away from this season.
1. Use a Gentle Cleanser
During winters, babies don’t need daily baths; 2-3 times a week is optimal to keep germs away and avoid dryness. Choose mild, fragrance-free baby wash or soap that does not strip away the skin’s protective acidic film and keeps your baby’s skin hydrated. Sebamed’s Baby Gentle Wash is a go-to for parents as it helps maintain the skin’s pH balance during and after bath time. Since it is a mild body wash, it is also fit for daily use and does not disrupts the friendly skin pH level.
2. Moisturise the Skin Right
Eczema rashes are no joke! They are dry, red, swollen, and itchy patches on a baby’s skin that can appear anywhere on the body and cause discomfort to the child. Therefore, locking in the moisture right after a bath is crucial to avoiding skin troubles. You can opt for a baby-specific moisturiser like Sebamed Baby Lotion, formulated to be gentle on your tiny tot’s delicate skin. Sebamed Extra Soft Cream is a quintessential cream to hydrate from deep within. Dermatologically tested, it contains Chamomile extracts and Panthenol that soothe and regenerate the skin. This pH-balanced soft cream and baby lotion will ensure the skin pH is maintained and your baby is far off from eczema and other derma issues.
3. Dress in Layers
Layering is an art – when done right, it can keep your little munchkin warm and cosy without causing suffocation or irritation. Choose breathable and skin-friendly fabrics such as cotton as the first layer. As you add more layers, you can opt for non-stuffy warm clothes.
4. Outdoor Protection From the Sun
Though the sun is a welcoming reprieve from the winter chills, its UV rays can still harm delicate skin, especially when reflected off bright surfaces like snow. Shield your infant’s skin with a Sebamed Baby Protective Facial Cream, a moisturising complex with soothing agents – Vitamin E, Allantoin, and Panthenol. Top it up with a baby-safe sunscreen and a Sebamed Baby Lip Balm containing nurturing shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil.
5. Use Humidifiers
Humidifiers are one of the best investments during colder months. They add moisture to the air, preventing skin dryness and cough in babies.
Keep Diaper Rash in Check
It is difficult for babies to go diaper or trouser-free in winter due to cold weather. Wearing diapers for extended hours can restrict air supply and lead to inflammation in that area. Keep a Sebamed Baby Rash Cream handy to apply to the affected areas to heal that rash. It has a formula that contains wheat bran extract and titanium dioxide, which forms a protective layer to soothe rashes and maintain the skin’s pH balance.
6. Avoid Overheating
Dressing your baby in too many warm clothes can suffocate them and overeat their skin, leading to skin irritation. Therefore, dressing babies appropriately for the weather is essential.
7. Recognise Eczema Signs
Given how vulnerable a baby’s skin is, sometimes, no matter the level of protection, dryness penetrates the skin. As primary caregivers, you must regularly check for signs of eczema, like itchy patches and redness. If observed, seek medical attention without any delay.
8. Nourishment From Within
Internal nourishment is as necessary as external moisturiser application and wearing warm clothes. Keep your baby hydrated by breastfeeding regularly and giving them plenty of water and juices to combat winter skin issues.
Winter is a much-awaited season, filled with frosted windows and cosy blanket snuggles with your little angel. So, while it is there, prepare to combat dry skin spells by following a winter skincare routine and incorporating nourishing practices to ensure your little one enjoys the season rather than layered up in a corner.
Happy winter to you and your little dreamer!
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A Sunny Start: Baby Sunscreen Tips Every Parent Should Know
Sunny days do not have to be about hiding away once you have a baby. While it’s usually the sun that gets a bad rep, the harmful UVA and UVB rays are what you need to be concerned about. Sun protection for babies is slightly different than that of adults, and we’re here to tell you just how you can make the most of those sunny days with your little one while keeping their skin protected.
Why Do Babies Need Sunscreen?
Babies have extremely delicate skin and have not yet developed the mechanism of regulating their body temperature. Thinner skin and low melanin make them an easy target of UV ray penetration. They are easily prone to sunburn, dehydration, and heat stroke when exposed to harsh sunlight. Sunscreen works like a protective barrier, shielding babies’ delicate skin from sun damage.
When Should You Start Using a Sunscreen for Your Little One?
As per the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), sunscreen should be applied to children aged 6 months or older. Newborn babies below the age of 6 are highly vulnerable to the chemicals in the sunscreen, which could affect their skin’s pH balance or develop contact dermatitis upon reaction. This is why babies under 6 months are required to be kept under the shade and out of direct and indirect sunlight, most importantly, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
If you must venture out with your baby during this time, dress them in protective, lightweight clothing that fully covers their arms and legs and a wide-brimmed hat. A stroller is one of the best options to keep the sunlight away from your baby. It is okay to put a small amount of sunscreen on the exposed areas of your less than 6-month-old baby if you are unable to keep them out of the sun, as long as you do a patch test first.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
Choosing the right sunblock for your little ball of joy is an important job. When choosing the right sunscreen, look for a ‘Baby-safe’ ‘Broad Spectrum’ formula to protect your baby from UVA and UVB rays.
Of the two kinds of sunscreens, physical and chemical, most experts recommend using physical, mineral-based sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens are laden with chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are popular hormonal disrupters. Therefore, it is best to use physical sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as mineral bases. Unlike chemical sunblocks, physical sunscreens do not absorb into the skin and form a physical barrier to block rays off your little one’s skin. What’s more? Mineral sunscreens are also ideal for sensitive skin types as they are not harsh.
Mamaearth’s mineral based sunscreen for babies is a popular choice among parents looking for the best sun protection for children aged 0-10 years. Dermatologically tested, this sunscreen comes with a hypoallergenic formula for sensitive skin and natural ingredients and fragrance. With Calendula as a top moisturising ingredient, the sunscreen protects as well as hydrates! And, the best part is that Mamaearth’s sunscreen comes with a ‘Made Safe Certification’, which makes it a no-brainer in terms of safety without having to worry about the harmful chemicals that could affect little ones.
In a nutshell, always opt for a mineral-based physical sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active bases to provide optimal protection.
Are You Applying Sunscreen on Your Little One Correctly?
For babies under 6 months, use sunscreen minimally and only when shade or protective clothing is not available.
For babies 6 months and above, you can be smart with the application of sunscreen all over their sun-exposed areas. You don’t need to wait for 15 to 30 minutes after applying a mineral sunscreen as it works immediately.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when out in the sun. If your little one is sweating or has exposure to water, lather on another layer. It’s not just the cheeks, arms, and legs, but the nose, ears, top of the head, exposed feet, and neck that need sun cover, too.
Be careful of your baby’s eyes and hands when applying sunscreen, as they may rub their eyes or put their hands in their mouth.
Which Is Better: Sun Cream, Sun Stick, Sun Spray, or Sun Powder?
With the inclusion of sprays and powders in the sunscreen section, you might be tempted to use them to test them out. Sunscreen aerosols (sprays) and powders have a heavy chance of entering the child’s lungs during application. Hence, they are best avoided. Creams and sticks are ideal options to manually put an even coat of sunscreen on those little hands and cheeks.
Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen
Sunscreen is not the only protection method against the sun’s harmful rays. Experts suggest keeping children safe outdoors with these methods:
1. Protective Clothing
Dress your little one in a lightweight, full-sleeved top and bottomwear during the day and evening. Use wide-brimmed hats to protect your little baby’s skin and head from sun damage, dehydration, and sunstroke.
2. Stay in the Shade
Do not venture out with your baby during peak sunlight hours, I.e., between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Avoid direct and indirect sunlight as much as possible, and keep your baby in a cool, shaded place.
3. Strollers
A stroller with a sun-protective cover or canopy is great to have for those walks outside with your baby.
4. Sunglasses
Even eyes are not spared by the sun’s penetrating rays. Children above 6 months can wear sunglasses outside to prevent retinal exposure to UVR.
As an added precaution, a few dots of sunscreen with any of the above will ensure no harm is coming to your little one’s skin.
How Do You Deal With Unexpected Sunburn
When exposed to sunlight for a longer duration, sunburn can occur. If your little one’s skin turns red and inflamed, immediately apply cool compresses to the inflamed skin and consult a paediatrician without delay. Keep your child away from direct and indirect sunlight until they heal.
A sun-kissed day can be a beautiful memory for your little munchkin when it’s a sun-safe one. Therefore, it’s best to be smart about spending time in the sun, whether summer or winter, with the right sunscreen, application, and additional sun safety measures.
Say goodbye to sunburn fears and hello to sunny smiles!
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High Needs Baby – 20 Characteristics To Look Out For
Parenthood can be a rollercoaster ride, but some babies take it to a whole new level. You may have heard the term high-needs baby floating around, but what does it really mean? Well, here’s the scoop: most moms with high-needs babies don’t even realize it until they compare notes with other moms whose little ones seem content with the basics. If your little bundle of joy keeps you on your toes, with a schedule that seems to have a mind of its own and a world that changes every day, then brace yourself because you have a high-needs baby! Get ready for a unique and challenging parenting experience.
Video: 10 Signs You Have a High-needs Baby
Today, we will tell you about the signs of high-maintenance babies.
Common Characteristics of a High-needs Baby
From screaming out of nowhere to not napping at all, here are 12 tell-tale signs of a high-needs baby that you must watch out for.
1. The Baby Is Never Silent
High-needs child are never silent; they want attention, and they get it by crying or making noise. For example, if you put your baby on the floor or in the bed and go to another room for a few minutes, your baby cries loudly until you come back to the room and take him in your arms. Sometimes, he may keep crying even after you have taken him in your arms. His cries increase by the hour, day-after-day. Sometimes, you just wish you had earmuffs, but hey, they’re not going to help you for long.
2. The Baby Always Wants to Move
Stillness is not a high-needs baby’s forte. You have to cradle him in your arms or constantly take him out for walks on strollers. Such babies, if you stop for a single minute, get cranky. The best advice we can give is to buy a baby tricycle or a swing or any sort of product that gets them to move.
3. The Baby Always Wants Mommy
A high-maintenance baby may choose one parent almost always, and it’s usually the mom. Sometimes, he may ask for his dad, but the chances are rare. This means moms will have a tough time since they’ll be expected to hold their babies and keep them near all the time. Get a baby carrier to free up your hands since this phase won’t be stopping anytime soon. You can trust us on that.
4. The Baby Hates Overstimulation
Although high-needs babies are hyperactive, they don’t appreciate it when their environment becomes like them. What we mean is that they don’t like crowds, noisy rooms, and a lot of people smiling and greeting them. If you’re having a gathering in the house or going out to busy places, make sure to have a babysitter or someone to take care of him. Yes, the crying will be there, but it’ll be less. Try to make sure the next day is peaceful though since he’ll be craving calm after the crying and noises.
5. Sleep Times Are Chaotic
This is a clear tell-tale sign. Most normal babies have a regular sleeping schedule, and some take naps frequently, too. But no, not a high-maintenance one. Sometimes he may sleep around 5 pm to 6 pm while at other times, he may sleep at 3 am. The time when he will sleep cannot be predicted, but one thing’s for sure – when you expect him to fall asleep, he’ll stay awake and vice versa, and that’s not easy to deal with.
6. The Baby Doesn’t Accept Formula Milk
High-maintenance babies always want to be breastfed. They don’t take no for an answer, and they shove away the milk formula when you hand it to them. The breastfeeding tendency has more to do with comfort rather than hunger. Constant breastfeeding makes them feel as if they’re closer to the parent and warm and safe. It’s a basic human or an instinctive desire to feel protected. But for moms, your days are going to get more tiring on the other hand.
7. The Baby Wants Stimulation
We just mentioned in the article above that high-needs babies hate stimulation, which is true, but only when it comes from the outside or is directed towards them. But when it comes to themselves, they want it. Some days your baby may want a quiet day with low ambient lighting in the house. Other days, he may want to move around, crawl room to room, or destroy those fancy baby toys you got for him.
8. The Baby Will Never Stay Alone
Your baby may also never stay alone. Even if you have to use the bathroom, he might come along. Whether you go to your fitness centre, to a friend’s house, or just grocery shopping, your little munchkin may make your life miserable unless you take him with you.
9. The Baby Doesn’t Know How to Self-Soothe
High-needs babies have higher needs when it comes to soothing themselves. Pacifiers, baby toys, and flashy and colourful stuff that you show him won’t work. The best way to soothe is the old-fashioned way with mom and dad by his side.
10. The Baby Poops Randomly
Normal babies show you signs and go red-faced right before they’re about to poop. Their bowel movements are like clockwork, but the same cannot be said for high-needs babies. They’ll soil their diapers and wet their beds without warning. If there’s one thing that’s clockwork about them – it’s their erratic pooping routines.
11. The Baby Hates to Be Swaddled
Most babies love being swaddled. It takes them back to their days inside the womb and makes them feel warm, comfy, and cosy. But high-needs babies may not like being swaddled. If you’ve tried to swaddle your baby in breezy or cosy material, you’ll notice him throwing a fuss. The best solution is to make sure the carrier has enough room for your baby to move his legs and let them dangle.
12. The Baby Cries Incessantly If His Needs Aren’t Met
This is the clearest sign you’ve got a high-needs baby. His needs take precedence over everything else in your life. And if you don’t attend to him, your life becomes a living nightmare since the cries and outbursts get louder to the point of insanity. You’ll also sometimes feel as if he’s the one in control since everything goes at his pace, from feeding and sleeping to rocking and playing.
13. Frequent Night Wakings
Forget about uninterrupted sleep because your little night owl likes to party and needs your company during those late-night hours.
14. Sensory Sensitivity
Everyday stimuli like noise, light, and touch can trigger an extreme response from your baby, leaving you in awe of their heightened senses.
15. Difficulty with Transitions
Any change in routine or environment throws your little one into a tailspin, making outings and travel an adventure in itself.
16. Strong-willed Personality
From an early age, your baby displays an unwavering determination and a fierce independence that both delights and challenges you.
17. Emotional Intensity
Your baby experiences emotions with intensity, displaying passionate expressions of joy, frustration, and everything in between.
18. Highly Alert
Your baby has an exceptional level of awareness and is always on the lookout, eagerly absorbing their surroundings with wide eyes.
19. Emotional Sensitivity
Your baby’s emotions are easily triggered, resulting in intense reactions to even minor upsets or changes in routine, requiring extra patience and understanding.
20. Difficulty Soothing
Traditional calming techniques like rocking or pacifiers may not work for your baby, requiring you to experiment with various methods to find what brings them comfort.
Don’t worry; it won’t last forever. The good news is that high-needs babies and intelligence traits are connected the more the kids mature!
How to Deal With Your High-Needs Baby?
Do you have a high-needs baby? Does he throw a tantrum all the time? Here’s how to deal with it.
1. Make Time for Yourself
Sometimes taking care of your high-needs baby may zap the energy out of you. And you won’t be able to take care of him if you don’t take care of yourself first. The best way to go about this is to take him to the areas surrounded by greenery and people. Take him for a stroll in the park and let him interact with kids while you spend a few minutes meditating or simply breathing.
2. Be a “Yes” Mom
If your baby wants a diaper change, do it without fuss. If he wants to be breastfed, do it. For a few months, agree to everything your baby wants. If you respond to your baby’s needs rather than react, they’ll get the message that you care. Wean off the “yes” responses and start saying no when it’s inappropriate. Do this when they get a few months older, though.
3. Learn to Read Cues
If your baby prefers specific foods and textures, and cries when you give him formula, analyse that. Observe him. Find out what makes him happy and what makes him throw tantrums. Be patient with the process and learn his preferences.
4. Journal Your Feelings
Once your baby falls asleep, and you get some time for yourself, journal your thoughts and feelings. Write down whatever you feel. Let everything out on paper. Try this brain-drain activity, and you’ll feel refreshed after the experience.
5. Hire a Babysitter
If you can find babysitters who get along with your baby, hire them. Let her take care of your munchkin a few days of the week. You deserve some time off, after all.
6. Find a Support Group
Find a support group and meet like-minded moms who are going through the same trouble. You’ll meet new people and find tips that work well for your high-needs baby.
7. Remember That Your Child Is Unique
A high-needs baby is a unique baby. Don’t compare him with the rest of the babies in the world. Treat your baby with a mindset that your little one is different, and he needs special attention and care.
8. Establish Consistent Routines
Creating predictable routines can help your baby feel secure and minimize their anxiety about what comes next.
9. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional or therapist who specializes in infant care.
10. Embrace Babywearing
Using a baby carrier or sling can provide comfort and closeness for your baby while allowing you to have your hands free.
Putting in the time for your munchkin and attending to his needs will pay off in the long run. When the years pass by, you’ll look back and actually start missing this time.
What Are The Effects Of Being A High Needs Baby?
Being a high-needs baby can have various effects, both on the baby and the parents. Firstly, high-needs babies often require constant attention and care, which can lead to sleep deprivation and exhaustion for the parents. They may have difficulty self-soothing and may rely heavily on their caregivers for comfort. These babies may also be more prone to separation anxiety and may become easily overwhelmed in new or stimulating environments. On the bright side, high-needs babies tend to have a strong sense of connection with their caregivers and can develop deep bonds. They often grow up to be empathetic, resilient individuals. So, while it may be challenging at times, remember that being a high-needs baby is just a unique part of their personality, and with patience, understanding, and support, both the baby and the parents can thrive.
FAQs
Asking questions is healthy and indicates that you want to learn. Here are some frequently asked questions by our readers.
1. What are the reasons for a baby to be high maintenance?
High-maintenance babies are more sensitive than other babies on an innate level. This causes them to cry as they crave more stimulation. One of the common reasons behind high-maintenance babies is emotional trauma during pregnancy or when the mother experienced a lot of stress prior to giving birth. The baby’s temperament is also responsible for him being high-maintenance, few babies are born with a difficult temperament.
2. Is there a difference between colicky and high-needs baby?
Yes, a colicky baby cries for more than three hours a day while a high-needs baby may cry much more than that. The sleeping pattern of a high-needs baby is erratic, too, when compared to a colicky munchkin and his behaviour is more unpredictable.
3. Do high-needs babies have anxiety on growing up?
Not really. Most parents report saying that their high-needs babies grow up to become independent and fantastic individuals. Since you’re caring for his needs constantly and giving him the love and affection a parent is meant to give, he’ll grow up feeling secure and confident.
4. Why does a high-needs baby need to constantly breastfeed?
This has more to do with the comfort aspect and the feeling of being close to you. It doesn’t mean they’re hungry because even if they’re not, they’ll still breastfeed to stay near you.
5. Do High Needs Baby Develop ADHD?
Having a high needs baby does not necessarily mean that they will develop ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). While high needs babies may display behaviors that can be challenging, such as being fussy, demanding, or having difficulty with self-regulation, it is important to understand that these characteristics alone do not indicate or predict the development of ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with specific diagnostic criteria, and it requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. So, if you have a high needs baby, take a deep breath and remember that their needs and temperament are unique, and with proper support and understanding, they can grow and thrive in their own way.
To conclude, high-needs babies just need more love and attention than the rest. Enjoy this time even if it feels hard because yes, there will be a day when you will miss it.
References/Resources:
1. NCT. (n.d.). Clingy Babies and Separation Anxiety: How to Cope. Retrieved from https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/toddler-tantrums-and-tricky-behaviour/clingy-babies-and-separation-anxiety-how-cope
2. NCT. (n.d.). Murray, I. (n.d.). The Development of Children’s Communication in the First Two Years: A Research Overview (pp. 15-20). Retrieved from https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Murray%20The%20development%20of%20children%C2%B9s%20communication%20in%20the%20first%20two%20years-%20a%20research%20overview%20pp%2015-20_0.pdf
3. MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Stool – Unusual Color. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003214.htm
4. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Tantrums: Why they happen and how to respond. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/tantrum/art-20047845
5. KidsHealth. (n.d.). Tantrums. Retrieved from https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/tantrums.html
Also Read:
How to Make Life Easier with Newborn Baby?
Why Babies Need to be Held All The Time?
Effective Tips for Dealing With Crying Baby
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Daycare Centre for Children – Pros and Cons
So, you have been enjoying motherhood to the hilt by spending time with your little one, taking care of him and tending to his various needs too. But if you are a working mom then this rosy period may have to end soon and you may have to go back to work.
The sheer thought of leaving your baby behind can be daunting for a mother. However, the daycare centre is a good option for parents who, due to work constraints or other reasons, cannot be with their babies. But have you weighed in the pros and cons of daycare yet? In this article, we shall discuss various advantages and disadvantages of a daycare centre and various tips that may help you choose a daycare centre for your child.
What Are the Advantages of Daycare Centres?
Various studies have shown that children benefit greatly from going to a daycare centre, and this holds true for babies and toddlers from 6 months to 4 years of age. Here are some advantages or pros of a daycare centre for children (1) (2) (3) (4):
1. Kids Learn to Socialise
Socialising is one of the great benefits of daycare. Daycare centres are great places for kids to meet other kids; some of the kids may be of the same age, and others may be younger or older. Your child will interact with them on a day-to-day basis, which may help him to master his socialising skills. Your kid may understand and learn the art of making friends, too.
2. Kids Learn to Follow Schedule
Though daycare centres may not impart any formal education, the various activities planned for the children are executed in a structured manner. Your kid may learn how to do things according to the schedule, and this is amongst one of the many benefits of daycare for toddlers.
3. Kids Begin Learning at an Early Age
Daycare centres not only take care of your child but also plan various activities for your kids. These activities help your kid to learn various educational concepts at a young age. There are many daycare centres that may adopt play and learn the concept. Therefore, the importance of daycare in child development cannot be undermined.
4. Smoother Transition to Formal Schooling
Kids who start going to daycare centres may find it easier to adjust to the formal schooling atmosphere. This is because, by the time they are ready to go to kindergarten, they may already be aware of being with same-age group children, following a schedule and other things that may make the transition easier for them.
5. Kids Develop Better Immunity
This is one of the many benefits of daycare for infants. Home is a protected environment and a safe place for your child, but not exposing him to rowdy environmental conditions may not be good for your child’s immunity. A daycare centre is a place where your kid would be interacting with many children. The more the child gets exposed to various strains of flu and cold, the better it is for his immunity.
6. Contentment for the Parents
Every parent wants to be with his/her child, but due to various constraints, this may not always be possible. Therefore, when parents leave their children in a trusted environment where they are assured that their baby will be taken care of and thus they may feel contented and happy.
7. There Is Consistency in Care
When a daycare worker is sick, instead of closing, the facility hires a substitute for the day. This ensures parents have reliable care without disruptions. Seeing the same caregivers every day is beneficial for children. As a parent, you won’t need to worry about finding last-minute care arrangements if someone gets sick. This makes managing your schedule and responsibilities easier.
8. Children Perfect Langauge and Speech
Daycare centers have skilled teachers who know just how to help kids talk better and learn words. They teach kids things like letters, numbers, shapes, and colors. Children are able to practice their language and speech under the orderly guidance. Parents might be busy, but daycare teachers are really good at this stuff.
Now that we have gone through the benefits of daycare for toddlers, here comes the disadvantages.
What Are the Disadvantages of Daycare Centres?
A daycare centre is a great option for your child. However, everything may have some pros and cons. So, is daycare bad for kids? No, daycare is not bad for children, but there are some cons or disadvantages of a daycare centre that are worth looking into:
Daycares are not cheap. As you go up with the facilities provided, the cost of daycar service increases, too.
You may have to spend extra money for an extended stay at a daycare centre.
Some daycare centres may not be functional on holidays; you may have to look for alternate arrangements.
Sometimes, daycare centres may not permit a sick child.
Along with other things, your child may be sharing germs, too. This means your kid is more susceptible to catching various kinds of infections and diseases at a daycare centre.
Daycare is a place where kids from various families and backgrounds may come. Your kid may be learning good things but he is also exposed to various bad habits of other children . Your kid may pick up bad words or habits from other children.
Daycare centres follow a routine, and sometimes your kid may not adjust well to it, and it may create problems for you, too.
Your child may be in a noisy atmosphere, and he may not like it.
Spending time in a daycare centre provides for a less personalised experience in comparison to the services of a nanny.
Reputed daycares providing the best of care and services often accept limited applications, soaring the competition and waitlisting.
The above-mentioned are some of the drawbacks that you may like to consider before you plan to put your kid in a daycare centre.
Things to Consider While Choosing Daycare for Your Child
How you choose a daycare for kids is important, too. Once you make up your mind about sending your kid to a daycare centre, it is important that you pay heed to the following aspects before choosing a daycare centre for your child (5):
A daycare centre is not only for taking care of your child; therefore, choose one that may involve your kid in various interactive and educational activities, too.
Choose a daycare centre that may allow flexibility in terms of time and days.
It will be a great idea to opt for a centre that may be close to your house so that picking and dropping may become convenient for you.
Make sure you check the child-caretaker ratio before putting your kid in any daycare centre, the lower the ratio, better it is.
Make sure the centre is registered or licensed and follows the rules and regulations of a daycare centre.
There are many options for daycare facilities to choose from, you should choose the one best suited to your family requirements.
FAQs
1. Can I homeschool my child instead of sending them to a daycare?
Yes, you can homeschool your child, but this might not be the one-size-fits-all solution for all parents, as every family has different schedule and needs. If you can provide personalisation to your child, then homeschooling can work out. However, if you are unable to provide highly personalised education all the time, then daycare facility is ideal.
2. What is the major benefit of daycare for children?
One of the major benefits for children is independence. Children learn to be independent and learn to stay away from their primary caregivers, which is usually not in the case of children with no daycare. The need for constant care from parents reduce and children learnt to open up their circle to bring in more people in their trustworthy circle (2).
Sending your kid to a daycare centre can be a tough call for the parents to take. However, there are many good options available too. Make deliberate efforts to choose the daycare centre for your little one.
References/Resources:
1. Daycare Pros and Cons: What Parents Should Know; WonderBaby.org; https://www.wonderbaby.org/articles/daycare-pros-and-cons
2. 5 Benefits of Daycare For Your Child; YMCA; https://lafayettefamilyymca.org/5-benefits-daycare-your-child/
3. Benefits of childcare for your toddler; Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY); https://www.pacey.org.uk/parents/the-best-care-for-your-child/benefits-of-childcare-for-your-toddler/
4. Daycare Benefits for Parents and Childeen; Mandio Montessori of Geneva; https://genevamontessori.org/daycare-benefits-for-parents-and-children/
5. Five steps to choosing childcare; Coram Family and Childcare; https://www.familyandchildcaretrust.org/five-steps-choosing-childcare
Also Read:
Importance of Preschool Education
Preschool Vs Daycare: Which Is Good for Your Child?
Should You Choose a Family Daycare for Your Child
At What Age Can Your Child Go to a Daycare/Childcare Centre?
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10 Must-Know Tips Before Travelling With Baby in Train
Travelling by train can be a wonderful experience for the soul – yes, even for those of us who like to save time by travelling on flights. True, train journeys can be time-consuming and difficult, but they also expose us to fresh experiences, new people, and new places, and inspire creativity and romance. When it comes to train travel with a baby, however, it is an entirely different ball game.
There comes a time when we cannot avoid travelling with the baby on public transport. You may have to be somewhere out of town or go to meet family members. Train journeys with your little darling can seem extremely daunting and worrisome, even to the experienced mother.
Is It Safe to Travel With a Baby By Train?
Traveling with a baby by train can be safe with proper preparation. It’s important to plan ahead, pack essential items, choose the right accommodations, follow safety guidelines, take breaks, be prepared for emergencies, and be considerate of other passengers. Before embarking on your journey, consult with your pediatrician to ensure your baby is healthy enough for travel. With these considerations, you can ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both you and your baby.
Things to Keep in Mind While Traveling With Your Baby By Train
We have compiled for you some important tips to simplify the process of travelling with your baby in a train. From preparation to the actual trip, these tricks will help make your journey hassle-free.
1. Try To Book Trains According To Your Baby’s Schedule
Little babies can get very cranky if their schedule changes, i.e. if they don’t get to feed or sleep as per the time they have become habituated to. While some amount of shuffling of schedules is unavoidable when you are travelling, it is a good idea to try and find a booking time that matches your baby’s schedule as much as possible. Also, avoid making any major changes in your schedule a few days before travelling. For example, if you have been planning to switch to solid foods, hold on till you’re back from the trip.
If this is not possible, try to make your baby feel as comfortable as possible around the time you’re scheduled to depart for the journey. So, if the time of the train clashes with your baby’s feeding time, feed him beforehand so he doesn’t get hungry and start crying.
2. Pack All These Essential Items For Your Baby
It doesn’t matter if the trip is going to last 2 days or 2 weeks – your baby is still going to need half the household packed in his bag! Travelling by train with baby means you need to pack essential items for the journey, aside from things you will need after reaching the destination. These include:
Rugs, bed sheets, etc. for your baby to lie down on
Favourite toys to keep the child entertained
Bibs to avoid spills while feeding in a moving train
Nursing shawl/cover to breastfeed on the train
Flask for baby’s water
Extra diapers (or potty seat, if required)
Extra pair of clothes and warm clothes if the train is air-conditioned
Plastic bags
Medicines for motion sickness and travel-induced digestion problems
3. Prepare and Carry a First-Aid Box For Your Baby
This is a must – keep your baby’s first-aid box ready well in advance and never forget to take it along. As a rule, the box should have medicines for fever, cold, congestion, ear infection, nasal saline drops, wipes, thermometer, antiseptics, bandages and cotton. Keep the doctor’s phone number handy (and added as a paper slip in the box) in case you need to get in touch during the journey/trip.
4. Discuss The Journey With Your Baby’s Paediatrician
A couple of days before you leave, it is a good idea to check with your paediatrician. This is helpful for any last-minute tips or advice that the doctor may have, and to see if there is any vaccination that the baby needs to take. You should also discuss the medicines to be carried on the journey. If your child has a history of allergy, motion sickness or digestion problems, ask the doctor to recommend medication for the trip.
5. Consider Using a Baby Carrier
For a train journey, you can consider wearing your baby in a sling or carrier instead of carrying your baby in a pram. Wearing your baby will help you navigate crowded platforms and stations, without worrying about rolling the pram or searching for elevators. You will get a hands-free experience and also feel more prepared to catch the train, considering the immense crowds that train stations see every single day!
6. Prepare Well For Your Baby’s Feeding
Making sure the baby eats well on a train journey can be another massive challenge. If you are breastfeeding (or formula feeding), make sure you carry all your feeding equipment with you – bottles, steriliser, pumps, feeding pillows, bibs, and covers.
If your baby has started on solid foods, some of these make ideal travelling foods:
Fruits like bananas, chiku, apples and oranges
Cereal (homemade options like semolina or rice-based cereals are good for travel. They can be just mixed with hot water and served)
Homemade cooked food that doesn’t spoil quickly, such as thepla, atta ladoo and khakra
Homemade purees (you can freeze them in individual air-tight containers and thaw them before feeding)
7. Keep Your Baby Entertained and Comfortable During The Journey
Little ones are easily bored – but they are also easily distracted! If you are travelling with a small baby, you need to prepare in advance various methods to keep him entertained during travel. Some of the options and tips that work well include:
Carrying some of their favourite toys and household objects
Carrying picture books
Playing songs and lullabies on your phone or iPod
Making funny facial expressions
Booking a first-class/second-class ticket if possible to get more space and hence more comfort for you and your baby
Trying to stick to their original schedule for feeding and napping, especially if it’s a long journey
8. Finally, Don’t Worry Too Much About People’s Reactions
If you’ve kept all the above pointers in mind, you are well prepared for the train journey with your baby. Chances are your journey will be smooth and your baby will have a good time enjoying the new sights and sounds. However, if something goes wrong, your baby starts crying, or there is any kind of a mess, don’t take it to heart. You have tried your very best to keep fellow passengers comfortable. But babies are in a growing-up phase and these things will happen. It doesn’t reflect on you badly as a mother.
9. Plan for Rest Stops
During long train journeys, plan for periodic breaks to stretch your legs, change diapers, and allow your baby to move around. Look for stations with suitable facilities for families, such as baby-changing areas and quiet spaces for feeding.
10. Be Mindful of Safety
Ensure that your baby is securely fastened in their seat or held safely in your arms during the train journey, especially when the train is in motion. Keep sharp or hazardous objects out of reach, and be cautious of hot surfaces such as beverage cups or food trays. Additionally, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the location of emergency exits on the train in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
FAQs
1. What should I consider when booking train tickets with a baby?
When booking train tickets, consider the duration of the journey and try to schedule it around your baby’s feeding and sleeping times as much as possible. Look for trains with family-friendly amenities such as changing facilities and priority seating.
2. How do I prepare my baby for the train journey?
Prepare your baby for the journey by ensuring they are well-fed, well-rested, and comfortable. There are many things to carry while travelling with baby in train. Pack all essential items such as diapers, wipes, extra clothing, and baby food. Familiarize your baby with the sounds and movements of the train beforehand if possible.
3. How can I keep my baby entertained during the train journey?
Bring along toys, books, and entertainment options to keep your baby engaged during the journey. Consider playing soothing music or lullabies on your phone or electronic device. Additionally, interact with your baby through funny facial expressions or engaging activities.
4. What should I do if my baby becomes fussy or uncomfortable during the journey?
If your baby becomes fussy or uncomfortable during the journey, try to address their needs promptly. Offer comfort by holding, rocking, or singing to your baby. Consider taking breaks at stations to allow your baby to stretch and move around. If necessary, seek assistance from train staff or fellow passengers.
While traveling with a baby by train requires careful planning and consideration, it can be a rewarding and memorable experience with the right preparation. By following the tips provided, parents can ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey for both themselves and their little ones. With proper planning, attention to safety, and flexibility, train travel with a baby can become an enriching adventure for the entire family.
Also Read:
Baby Travel Essentials Checklist
Travelling With a Baby on a Flight
Tips For Travelling With Baby In a Bus
Baby & Toddler Foods to Carry While Travelling
Things You Need if You’re Travelling With a Baby
Read more
Living With In-Laws – Is It a Boon or a Bane?
It is actually a boon if the in-laws can understand at least 10% compared to what our parents understand us. I would like to categorise in-laws as –
Educated
Uneducated But Understanding
Now, the first category is for the in-laws who are educated. It is definitely a big boon to a girl. Here are some more pros:
If you are working, then they can understand your goals and dreams, and will definitely support you in your future plans.
If you are working and have kids, they can take care of your kids’ studies, also care for their own health.
If you had to attend something important other than work, they are understanding, and you can just go ahead and be rest assured that somebody is there to take care of your kids.
If you want to spend some quality time with your partner, they know its importance and respect your privacy.
If both you and your partner were occupied with something important and had to reach home late, everything will be taken care of at home, including your kids.
If you have any misunderstandings between you and your partner, they will definitely help you solve the problem. They actually are the backbone for your family.
Some of your kids’ responsibilities can be shared by the in-laws if you are a working woman.
Let’s take a look at the second category – Uneducated but Understanding.
All of the above pros apply even though the in-laws are not educated. But only one thing is you have to put some extra effort into your kids’ studies.
Believe me; it’s a boon. More importantly, kids can learn so many valuable things from elders at home.
There will be a difference between kids who grow with their grandparents and parents, than those who grow only with parents, or those who are raised by their grandparents alone.
However, in my opinion, educated understanding in-laws make for the best parents and grandparents. Whoever is reading this whether it’s a married woman or unmarried, please make decisions maturely and wisely. Give equal importance to your in-laws as you give to your parents.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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