All About Keona

Jessica Alba's Website on Toxic-Free Baby Product "Honest.com"

2012-01-24T02:19:00.000-08:00

Hot mommy Jessica Alba launched an e-commerce company at Honest.com (named after her three year old daughter Honor) to sell eco friendly and toxic free baby products and household items for a monthly subscription.

Jessica Alba said the idea was born after she learned that toxic chemicals are in widely used in everyday products.

She decided the best solution was to make available the kinds of products she would buy. To launch the business, she partnered with author and environmentalist Christopher Gavigan, ShoeDazzle founder Brian Lee and PriceGrabber executive Sean Kane.

To make purchase, consumers sign up on Honest.com and choose from subscription packages for products including diapers, shampoo and laundry detergent. The products are then delivered monthly to he buyer's door.

"It's important that a brand that's meant for families actually listens to families, and it's not just some big corporate entity making these huge decisions," she said.

10 most common skin plagues after pregnancy

2012-01-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

1. Melasma. The birthmark-like blotches most commonly found on the cheeks are caused by your fluctuating hormones. It is best to treat it right away. The longer it stays on your skin, the deeper the discoloration sets. Products with tretinion and hydriquinone will help whiten the dark spots, and daily sunblock use is essential.

2. Skin discoloration. Most new moms complain of dark skin on their neck, underarms, and groin area. This is caused by hormones and should lighten up within six month's time. Avoid scrubbing the area, doing so irritates the skin and aggravates the darkening. A nice solution would be to use a bleaching lotion or something with hydroquinone.

3. Stretch marks. They are familial, if your family has them, the bigger your chances of getting of getting them too. There are available products and treatments but these tears underneath the skin won't disappear completely. It is recommended to use a whitening agent for the dark marks. If the marks are light, lightening the surrounding skin first to make the marks less obvious.

4. Acne. It is best to first establish the reason for the flareup. If it's the hormones brought about by pregnancy. Some use birth control pills for their anti androgen ingredients. The downside, however, is that you might stop producing breast milk. It is best to ask your ob-gyne for an alternative that won't make you stop lactating.

5. Change in skin texture. Most new moms find their oily skin oilier or their dry skin drier, or sometimes, their usually dry skin turns oily and vice versa. It is best to use soaps and other products meant for your new skin type. You can also change your moisturizer and choose milder products.

6. Darkening and soreness of nipples. This is brought about by hormones, so it's best to wait it out. Even the linea negra, the dark line that goes vertically from the top of the tummy down disappears in time. As for soreness of the nipples due to breastfeeding, check if you're doing it right. To help ease the pain, you may use petroleum jelly or lanolin.

7. Scar and keloid. This is a problem for moms who gave birth via C-section. Run of the mill scars heal by themselves. They gradually fade. The hard part is when they turn into a keloid. A keloid must be treated immediately to prevent it from getting bigger and harder. It can be painful and itchy. An injection of cortisone can help shrink it.

8. Hair loss. An effect of hormone fluctuations. It would be advisable to take oral calcium and zinc supplements and applying menoxidyl once to twice a day.

9. Warts. Most moms do not associate warts with post pregnancy issues because they come much later, but it is. You become more susceptible to them, a common treatment for warts would be cauterized.

10 Dark under eye circles. These are caused by blood vessels getting engorged. It is recommended by doctors to use products with vitamin K to help lessen the puffiness, and to ask help from the poeple around you so you can catch up on that much needed rest.

Is is Advisable to Have Your Newborn Ears Pierced?

2012-01-13T01:03:00.000-08:00

Ear piercing has become a practice of sort at some hospitals. There's no contraindication to that. However a couple of factors must be considered for safety purposes.

Have your infant's hearing checked. The popping sound of the piercing equipment may affect your child's auditory system. Also, consider that her ear lobe is still soft and not yet fully formed. You might have to do it all over again later when her ear has developed.

And though the equipment is sterile. Your baby has not had any anti tetanus shots. It might be safer to delay this procedure until the baby's fifth or sixth month when she has gone through a battery of immunization, including anti-tetanus vaccine.

Lastly, think about the type of earring you'll use. Babies tend to scratch their ears and loosely fitted pair might come off, there is thus danger of that tiny thing being swallowed by your baby. Want to play it safe? Wait until she's three (at this time, she'll know enough not to swallow stuff).

Your Baby has a hard Time Pooping, How can You make it Easier for him?

2012-01-11T01:05:00.000-08:00

A child's abdominal muscles are not fully developed until the age of one. So before then, expect him to have a harder time pushing. In the meantime, you have to be conscious of his poop schedule. It takes some babies every two or three days to poop. Every child has his own schedule. If this is his own growth spurt time, he will consume almost everything he eats. Breastfed babies absorb breast milk completely.

If you child is still having a hard time. Gently giving him an abdominal massage on his left side, where the large intestines are. You may also try using a glycerin suppository to tickle his anus. This will create a reflex, causing your baby to push.

Is It Harmful for Your Baby To Always be Prescribed Antibiotics?

2012-01-09T01:01:00.000-08:00

Many of the conditions children suffer from are viral, and you do not treat viral illnesses with antibiotics. A viral infection takes it course. Even if you give medication, it will just take its course. Antibiotics are anti-bacterial, and a virus is different from a bacteria.

That's why it's important for you to know whether your child's illness is viral or bacterial.

Also some antibiotics are known to be autotoxic when consumed in large amounts. In general, antibiotics should be used very carefully. The problem is that the body builds resistance to it when overused and abused.

Tips On Storing Breast Milk so it Wont get Spoiled

2012-01-08T17:15:00.000-08:00

Breast milk has a longer shelf life than infant formula. Breast milk has live antibodies that fight germs. It's called living milk. It's resistant to spoilage.

Breast milk can stay outside at room temperature for a whole day. In the refrigerator, it stays good for a day. In the freezer, it's good for months. However, if the milk has been touched, meaning your baby has drank from the bottle, then it may spoil more easily.

Make sure your baby sitter or yaya strictly follows storing, thawing, and heating procedures for breastmilk.

Tips for Lactose Intolerant People

2011-11-17T17:39:00.000-08:00

Some people have a problem with milk because they have lactose intolerance (also called lactase deficiency).

Lactose intolerance is the inability or decrease ability to digest lactose or milk sugar. This occurs when there is a shortage of the enzyme lactase, which is produced by the cells that line the small intestine. The enzyme breaks down the milk sugar (lactose) into simple forms, so that it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. When there is not enough lactase to digest the amount of lactose eaten, the result (about 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating or drinking foods containing lactose) could include stomach cramps, bloating, painful gas, flatulence, diarrhea and nausea.

What you can do:

For people with lactose intolerance, experts recommend lactose reduced milk and dairy products available in some supermarkets.

Experts also suggest experimenting with dairy foods that contain less sugar, including yogurt and cottage cheese. Some people with lactose intolerance are able to digest small amounts of yogurt at a time.

Some researchers have found that drinking small amounts of milk on a full stomach helps people recondition their digestive systems to accept dairy products. Start slowly with two ounces of milk with meals two to three times a day and gradually increase the amount if there is no discomfort.

Nutritionists and medical experts suggest you try to eliminate all dairy products for a week, then reintroduce them one at a time. When your symptoms begin, you should have a good idea of how much dairy you can tolerate before you experience discomfort. Some people can tolerate small amounts of lactose without problems, but eating large amounts within a short period can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

Asthma and Exercise can Go Hand in Hand

2011-11-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

Asthma and exercise can go hand in hand. Parents misconceptions that exercise can be risky for their asthmatic children may be partly to blame for levels of physical activity among children with the disease, according to a study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

The study, found that 20 percent of children with asthma do not get enough exercise, even though research has shown that running, swimming and other kinds of physical activity decrease the severity of asthma symptoms.

Researchers conducted a telephone survey of 137 parents of children with asthma and 106 parents of healthy children. About 20 percent of all parents indicated they believed that exercise is dangerous for children with asthma.

About 25 percent of the parents of asthmatic children said they were afraid that exercise would make their child sick, and that their child gets upset with strenuous activity. The children of parents who expressed such views were more likely than other children to be inactive.

"These results are troubling" study lead author Dr. David Lang said in a prepared statement.

"Despite medical advances and a better understanding of asthma, we found that beliefs still exist that exercise is dangerous for asthmatic children and that children with asthma should not exercise. In reality, physical activity has important benefits for all children, including those with asthma," Lang said.

It's essential that pediatrician educate asthmatic children adn their parents about the benefits of exercise, he said.

A Child have a Higher Risk of Dehydration

2011-11-08T01:42:00.000-08:00

A dramatic reduction in the amount of fluid in the body causes dehydration, which can be a serious, even life threatening, condition if left untreated. And children, especially babies and toddlers, are at a greater risk of dehydration than adults because they have less fluid reserves and because they are sick more often.

The biggest cause of dehydration in youngsters is diarrheal illnesses

There's the fluid loss from the diarrhea and in addition kids feel lousy, so they don't drink.

Symptoms of dehydration in children include dry mouth, no tears and a lack of urination. Babies less than 3 months should urinate at least once every 6 hours; toddlers should wet at least three diapers a day, and older children should be going to the bathroom at least two to three times in a 24 hour period.

Signs of more serious dehydration include sunken eyes, lethargy and a loss of elasticity in the skin. If you notice these symptoms or a lack of urination, contact your child's doctor.

The first line of treatment of dehydration is drinking fluids, preferably an oral electrolyte solution designed especially for children. Sports drink designed for adults aren't as effective as the ones made for kids.

Encourage you child to take small, frequent sips of a pediatric electrolyte drink any time they're sick with a fever or diarrhea. More serious cases of dehydration may require intravenous rehydration.

Welcome Frezel Anne to the Family

2011-11-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

Who would have known it, baby Frezel Anne my brother's daughter would be born on October 29 the same day as Keona. Here are some photos of the new girl in town.

Cinderella III: A Twist inTime (A Much Better Sequel)

2011-10-31T08:16:00.001-07:00

Cinderella III: A Twist in Time, takes us to the continuation of the movie Cinderella were Cinderella and her prince lived happily ever after (or so they think).

In this movie Cinderella is not just against her evil stepmother and her daughters but also against magic. On this movie we will see Cinderella struggle more to achieve her dreams, with a little help of course from her mice friends.

In the movie the stepmother gets a hold of the Fairy Godmother's wand and turns back time during the fitting of the glass slipper (if you watch the first Cinderella you'll remember this part quiet well). But this time with the help of the magic wand, behold the shoe fits on Anastasia, with this Anastasia is the one that is to be wed to the prince.

Although things did not turn out the way Cinderella wants it to be, she was determined to find the prince and set things straight. I'm not gonna go on telling you all the details of the movie, especially for those who have not seen this movie.

I'll tell you guys, this movie is far better than the first Cinderella movie, in terms of story that is. But the songs of the first movie is better compared to the third one. But overall, I'll tell you this, you wont be disappointed with this movie.

Keona's First Picture

2011-10-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

I had to find where I put this file, when Keona was born I had no digital camera during that time, all I had is my cell phone Sony Ericsson K310i with a built in camera that has a very low resolution. But I'm still glad I had it than having nothing to take pictures of Keona.

Here are Keona's very first photos:

Sesame Street Supports "No To Bullying"

2011-10-17T01:03:00.000-07:00

Big Birds problems getting into The Good Birds Club are at the center of an anti-bullying effort being launched by Sesame Street. The venerable PBS show will air a special episode Monday that aims to teach preschoolers how to recognize and combat bullying. The show said that studies say bullying behavior is seen in children as young as 3, so it's important to get the message across.

In the episode, Big Bird is invited to join the club, but a bully won't let him in and makes fun of him. Desperate to join, Big Bird asks the fairy Abby to make him smaller and change his yellow feathers to blue, but he still doesn't pass muster.

Financial Freedom and Saving for Retirement

2011-10-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

Attaining financial freedom has always been my dream. I have been learning a lot about managing finances through so many financial resources, may it be online or books and I also attend seminars about personal finance whenever I get the chance or opportunity. Learning about how to open ira is also very useful. We don’t want to be a burden to our children when we retire right? So saving up for retirement is a must so we’ll not end up broke when retirement comes.

There are a lot of things to do before achieving financial freedom. It is not as easy as it appears to be. It involves hard work, discipline, perseverance, commitment to ones goals. The first step to financial freedom is to eliminate all bad debts that we have. Bad debts take away money from our pocket and the law of compound interest works against us if we have bad debt. The next step is to save up. For me, saving up 20 percent of our gross active income is ideal. Save up around 6 months to one-year of salary for emergency in case we lose our job. That way, we have something to spend while we look for another job. Then also set aside funds for healthcare. It is also advisable to get health insurance so we can use it when necessary.

The next thing to do is to invest. We need to invest some of our savings in order for it to grow. Investing in diverse portfolio is what financial experts advise. As the old adage says, “Do not put all your eggs in just one basket”. Then strive to get multiple income streams and create passive income. By doing all of these, we can achieve financial freedom.

Simple Tips To Keep in Touch With Your Child While You Work

2011-10-14T01:05:00.000-07:00

Here are tips on how to stay connected with your little one while you work:

GIVE HIM A CALL. Set aside a regular time to get in touch with your child throughout the day so he has something to look forward to. Your coffee break and lunch break can be opportunities for you to make that call. You might want to synchronize your clock with your child when he is most alert, his caregiver can let your child know when you are about to call. Even if your toddler may not be able to speak to you yet, just hearing your voice will reassure him.

LEAVE YOUR PHOTO. Let your child keep a small picture of you which he can hold on to when he suddenly feels your absence. Seeing your face can be a source of comfort for him.

RECORD YOUR VOICE. Sing his favorite song, rhyme, or say a few encouraging words for your child like, "Mommy will be home soon!" "Mommy misses you!" and digitally record it for your child to listen to whenever he misses you. Ask his caregiver to play the recording at certain hours of the day like before he takes a nap (a lullaby); when he takes a bath (a bath song); when he's playing; or just because!

MAKE LOVE NOTES. Surprise your preschooler by sticking a short note inside his lunchbox to remind him how much you love him and wish him a fun filled day at school.

Important Facts About Your Kids Height

2011-10-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

2 facts about your kids height is that:

Males experience their growth spurts between ages 10-14. Females experience theirs between ages 12-16.

Both males and females generally reach their height between ages 18-20.

Factors That Contribute To Your Child's Height

2011-10-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

Height often plays an important role in people's lives. Medically, pediatricians use growth chart to make sure that a child is growing at the proper rate. In May sports, such as volleyball and basketball, being tall is an important factor.

"Height is might" that is what most people would say. While Filipinos are not genetically predisposed to be a tall race, most parents still wish that their kids grow up to be taller than most children. But what exactly makes a person tall?

There are many factors that contribute to a person's height. Knowing what influences growth and development will help children achieve their optimum height.

1. Genetic make-up. Children inherit their parents attributes, so tall parents, in general, will produce tall off springs. Traits such as physique are also passed down from parents.

2. Prenatal Factors. While a baby is still in his mother's womb, the mom's habits, amount of exercise, and choice of food affect the child's development. Expecting moms need to stay in the pink of health to avoid any complications such as hypertension, anemia, and congestive heart failure, which could cause low birth weight in babies and a higher chance of perinatal morbidity incidence.

3. Nutrition. It is important to plan a balanced diet and incorporating a lot of "grow" foods in your child's meals. Include meat and egg in his meals, which are packed with protein. You must also encourage your child to drink milk, fortified with bone developing calcium.

4. Vitamins. Vitamins help maintain and facilitate the proper functioning of certain organs and organ systems found in a child's body. The following vitamins perform a vital role to ensure that the body efficiently absorbs nutrients and keeps the body's systems in prime working condition.

5. Exercise. While there are no definite exercises that promote height enhancement, certain activities like stretching help improve posture, since incorrect or poor posture contributes to slouching. This, in turn will make a child appear shorter than he actually is. Discrepancies in the vertebral curves, muscle coordination, strength, physical and mental health, and fatigue are leading causes of postural changes in a child.

6. Sleep. The daily amount of sleep your child gets affects his height. Growth hormones are secreted deep sleep. It is advisable for your kid to get sufficient sleep to boost a child's height.

Simple Ways To Stimulate and Bond With Your Unborn Baby

2011-10-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

Though most moms to be just read to their babies all day or set their classical playlist on repeat, there are more fun and creative ways you can stimulate and bond with your unborn baby. Here are some ideas.

1. Stage a concert. Instead of playing a CD or cranking up the volume for your tiny iPod earphones, why not invite your friends and family members who play musical instruments to jam and perform for your baby bump? If you could play an instrument, that would be even better! Don't forget to record the performance so you can play it over and over again when everyone has gone home.

2. Curtain call. Invite Daddy to join in the fun and act out a play for your baby. Do different voices, too! If more friends and family members want to join in, why not? You can try simple one act plays or be ambitious and bring out the Shakespearean comedies (the tragedies might be too gory for your delicate prenatal sensibilities).

3. We are family. Record your family members giving different messages to your baby. You can even play it for him after he's born. See if he remembers and recognizes their voices! This works best for relatives who live far away.

4. Paint a picture with words. when you're alone, start describing what you see to your little one. Include colors, smells and textures. This is great practice for when he's born and you'll want to work on his language acquisition skills. By then, a one sided conversation will be second nature to you!

5. Play drummer. But a gentle one. Play music and start tapping away on your belly. Ask daddy to try it, too. Try this when your baby is awake and movie around. You'll be amazed at how he can already respond to you! Bring out the video camera, and film the ripples and waves your belly will make as your baby reacts to your drumbeats.

It's never too early to start letting your baby know how much you love him. Even if you can't hold him in your arms, communicating with him while he's still inside you is a great way to begin.

Simple Tips on How To Reduce Computer Eyestrain on Your Child

2011-10-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

Computer eyestrain is a common complaint among office workers, regardless of job, age or gender. With the growing popularity of computer use at home and in school, even children are now at risk.

The underlying cause of the problem is the eyes inability to focus accurately at the distance of the computer screen, eye experts say. This is because of the soft edged characteristics of the pixels that make up the words and images on the screen.

If your child suffers from computer eyestrain, follow these tips:

Don't ignore the problem; see an eye doctor. Those who suffer from symptoms of eyestrain. Frequent headache, tired, dry or burning eyes, blurred or double vision should see an eye care professional who can evaluate their eyes and prescribe eyeglasses to alleviate the stress.

Use proper lighting. Glare on walls and finished surfaces, reflections on the computer screen, outside light and bright interior lights can all add to computer eyestrain. Close drapes or blinds. Reduce lighting by using fewer light bulbs or fluorescent tubes (or by lowering their intensity). Use an anti-glare computer screen.

Modify your child's study area. Adjust the chair so your child views the computer screen from a 10 to 20 degree angle. Place written pages on a copy stand adjacent to the monitor and light them with desk lamp if necessary, keeping that light off the screen.

Remind him to take frequent brakes. Experts recommend taking a 15 minute break for every 2 hours of work.

Teach him to refocus his eyes. Train him to look away from the computer screen every 10 or 15 minutes and focus for several seconds on a distant object. This allows him to blink, which wets his eyes. Dry eyes can lead to further discomfort.

Remind him to blink more often. Because computer users blink about five times less frequently than normal, tell your child to make a conscious effort to blink while working at the computer.

Simple Tips To Avoid Stress

2011-10-01T01:04:00.000-07:00

Individuals with no family history of disease still contact illness. Many times this is from unfavorable stress levels. Although a little stress pushes a person to perform well at work and play, today's fast paced, urban jungle lifestyle oftentimes causes too much.

Stress increases the body's levels of the hormone cortisol, which increases glucose and blood pressure levels. Though increased cortisol is physiologic and i necessary for dealing with acute stress situations like speaking before an audience, or driving through rush hour traffic, prolonged and frequent elevated levels can lead to illness. Stress also causes decreased functioning of the immune system, making individuals prone to acute infections.

Fight stress by:

Engage in regular physical activity
Get enough sleep
Cultivate relationships with family and friends
Set aside time for prayers and meditation
Take up hobbies
Say no to people or events that clutter your schedule
Read a book or watch a movie
Cut down on caffeine, smoking and alcohol
Take regular vacations
Laugh a lot

Popular PainKiller "Aspirin" and what you should know about it

2011-09-30T01:04:00.000-07:00

Aspirin is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and reduces fever, redness and swelling.

You may know someone who takes aspirin on a regular basis, even in the absence of symptoms. They do this because aspirin has a unique property. It prevents blood from clotting and is useful against conditions that are caused by or aggravated by clotting blood, such as heart attack or stroke. However, do not take aspirin for this purpose without medical supervision, the absence of proper blood clotting can lead to uncontrolled bleeding from minor wounds.

Aspirin is no longer given to children and teenagers after the discovery of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious reaction to aspirin following its use in treating pediatric viral illnesses.

The most common side effect of aspirin is upset stomach or indigestion, from irritation of the tissue that lines the stomach. This may lead to wounds and bleeding. Persons with a history of peptic ulcer or bleeding anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract should avoid aspirin. Vomiting and nausea may also occur.

other considerations:

If you have diabetes, regular use of eight or more regular strength tablets a day may affect your test results for urine sugar.
If you had oral surgery or your tonsils removed in the last 7 days, do nut use aspirin in chewable form or as effervescent tablets, or aspirin in crushed tablets or gargles.
Breat feeding mothers, those with a known aspirin allergy or bleeding disorder, those taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) and children who have mild viral symptoms should not be given aspirin.
Persons with G6PD deficiency should not take aspirin. When they do, their red blood cells break down, resulting in a severe form of anemia.

See a doctor immediately if the following are observed after the use of aspirin:

Rashes
Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Dramatic swelling of the face and mouth
Ringing in the ears, loss of hearing
Bloody or black stools
Dizziness
Mental confusion, drowsiness

Simple Tips To Care For Your Child's Laryngitis and Hoarseness

2011-09-29T01:05:00.000-07:00

When there is not enough air passing through your child's vocal cords, his voice will sound hoarse or husky or may disappear altogether. Hoarseness is not a disease. It is a signal that his vocal cords are not working normally.

Hoarseness can be caused by overuse of the vocal cords. Cheering at a sporting event, shouting, singing, speaking or whispering for long periods can all cause temporary hoarseness or loss of voice. Constantly clearing the throat can also cause hoarseness. A cold, sore throat or other upper respiratory infection can rob your child of his voice if the infection spreads to his voice box. This is called laryngitis.

Here are some simple tips for caring a child's Laryngitis and Hoarseness:

Make your child rest his vocal cords. Instruct him to avoid talking and whispering as much as possible. (Whispering strains vocal cords as much as talking does.) Have him use a pencil and paper and hand gestures to communicate

Give him plenty of fluids. Water is best to keep vocal cords hydrated

Protect him from smoke and air pollution. Both can dry out and irritate vocal cords.

If you live in an area with low humidity, humidify your home.

If you have to go out in extremely cold weather, have him wear a scarf or mask over his mouth

If he is old enough, he can suck on cough lozenges if his throat feels scratchy

Discourage him from constantly clearing his throat.

Simple Tips To Care For Your Child's Sore Throat

2011-09-28T01:01:00.000-07:00

S0re throats can be caused by low humidity in your home, not enough fluids, seasonal dryness, smoke and allergies. Sore throats can also be caused by viral or bacteria infections, including strep throat.

Here are some simple tips for caring a child's sore throat:

Have your child gargle with warm salt water every couple of hours. Use 1/4 teaspoon of table salt in an 8 ounce glass of water. This will help lessen the irritation that is causing his throat to feel sore.

Have him suck on ice pops or other frozen desserts. They will feel good on his throat and help him get enough liquids. Older children can also suck on throat lozenges (cough drops), hard candy or ice and gargle with salt water.

Give him a lot of liquids, up to 8 to 10 glasses each day. Juice and water are best. Warm liquids are soothing to the back of the throat.

Give him paracetamol for fever or other aches. Do not give aspirin to children because it may increase their risk of Reye's syndrome.

Let him rest. It will help his body get rid of the virus or bacteria that is causing the infection

Simple Tips In Taking Care Of Your Medicine

2011-09-26T01:03:00.000-07:00

Although some people don't really think much about where they store their medicines, but this can spell the difference between a good tablet and a bad one. Keep these in mind when storing your medicines and medical supplies at home.

OUT OF THE BATHROOM

If your medicine cabinet is in your bathroom, move it someplace else. Putting your medicine cabinet in the bathroom is not advisable for medicines and medical supplies such as band aids since it provides a humid and warm environment. This accelerates drug degradation and may reduce its potency. Store your medicines and medical supplies in a cool, dry place, such as in your room, instead.

KEEP IT IN THE ORIGINAL BOX

Pill boxes are very useful especially for patients who often forget to take their medicines. But it's still better to keep pills in their original packaging. There are medicines that are categorized as light or photo sensitive. These drugs degrade when exposed to sunlight and they should not be transferred to any other container such as pill boxes. The original packaging protects the drug from light, which plays an important role in the physical and chemical stability of a drug.

TAKE IT TO THE FRIDGE

If the label says so. If it is indicated on the label that it should be refrigerated or if it requires a temperature range of 8 to 15 Degrees Celsius, then you may store your medicines in the refrigerator. Exceeding the standard storage condition of a certain drug will increase its rate of decomposition and will lessen its efficacy.

CHECK THE LABELS

When in doubt, always follow the storage instructions on the label and keep them in their original bottles or blister packs, to make sure that the medicines do not go bad quickly.

Tips To Help Children Cope With Traumatic Situation

2011-09-24T01:08:00.000-07:00

TALK. Discuss their experience with them. See if they have questions and help them find the answers to these questions. Let them freely express their own feelings and reactions. Reassure them that these reactions are very normal.

SUPPORT. Explore different ways for your child to be able to seek the support of others, including parents, other adults (teachers, guidance counselors, relatives), or their peers. Having access to good social support is key to adjusting well.

EXPRESS. Different people need to grieve in different ways. Encouraging various ways of expressing oneself in a productive and effective manner is ideal. The use of arts and sports is a good example.

MOURN AND ACCEPT. Our culture has certain rituals to grieve over our dead. Some people offer prayers and light candles. Others might visit the cemetery on a regular basis. These activities are good in mourning the loss of loved ones. It is also a means of helping the children accept the reality of such a traumatic death.

SEEK HELP. Admittedly, this is a very difficult life circumstance. Seeking the help of a psychologist or a psychiatrist can be valuable.

Tips In Determining the Differences Between Common Colds and Allergic Rhinitis

2011-09-22T01:04:00.000-07:00

It is important to distinguish between the common cold and allergic rhinitis, both of which can overlap and may be mistaken for the other.

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and a runny nose, and thus overlap with those of the common cold. However, these symptoms either occur at a constant level through the year (perennial rhinitis) or only during specific periods (seasonal rhinitis) without a clear cut period of resolution, unless anti allergy medications have been taken.

So while parents may worry that their child is getting more colds than usual, it may only be allergic rhinitis. A trip to the doctor can clarify the matter.

Factors That Trigger Bad Mood in Your Child

2011-09-16T13:07:00.000-07:00

All of us has experienced this, you little bundle of joy starts of being cheerful then suddenly changes his moods in an instant. A young child's mood hinge on a complex interaction between environmental influences, his psychological state and life events. Here are some factors so you can avert the next crisis.

HUNGER: A toddler who's feeling out of sorts may not realize he's hungry. It's up to you to make the connection. Always carry healthy snacks, and stop to refuel when out and about for several hours.

FATIGUE: Lack of sleep can make young children moody.

PERCEIVED INJUSTICES: If your child thinks you're being nicer to his sibling, his mood may take a nosedive.

GROWTH SPURTS: Subtle progress in brain development or psychological growth can cause your child to feel cranky.

OVER-STIMULATION: Some kids become hyper or irritable, or simply shut down after rushing from one activity to another.

CHANGES IN ROUTINE: Any shift can throw their mood out of whack.

Whats The Best Time To Get A Pet For Your Child?

2011-09-15T01:02:00.000-07:00

Well for me I don't think I would get Keona a pet, one thing is that it would be an added expense. Although having a pet for your child is one of the best ways to teach your child to be responsible, but I would rather let her learn other ways to be responsible, minus a pet hehehehe.

But if you want your child to have a pet, I think the best time to get your child a pet is when your child starts showing interest in animals and expresses the desire to have a pet. It is important that he is already able to follow instructions and is ready to be taught how to properly take good care of animals.

It is also recommended to get a pet that is of small size or breed, easy to handle or manage, is of good temperament, and matches the child's personality and interest. Young or newly weaned animals are preferable so it would be easier for them to adapt to the child and vice versa. It is also best if parents can research on the animals they plan to get for their child to see if the pet would be appropriate for their kids, their lifestyle, and budget.

When Would be The Right Time To Teach A Child To Swim

2011-09-14T01:01:00.000-07:00

When would be the right time to teach a child to swim? I ask some of my friends and most would suggest that babies as young as six months can already be enrolled in infant swim classes. Since they don't fear the water and maybe can even associate swimming with the secure feeling they had not too long ago inside their mother's womb. Don't be afraid that your baby might swallow water or drown. Like adults, they will instinctively know how to suspend breathing while underwater.

Sound simple though, but I would have Keona swim at an older age maybe four or five. Because as of now she's 2 years and 11 months old and during this age, they would be more difficult to teach and may scream or cry when released in the water.

List of Natural Treatments for Constipation

2011-09-13T01:04:00.000-07:00

1. Foods that promote bowel movements: figs, prunes, pears, papaya, bran, flax seed, barley malt extract, and oats.

2. Virgin coconut oil

3. Probiotics

4. Digestive enzymes made of papaya and pineapple (you may find these in health shops)

5. Water

6. Fruit juices high in sorbitol like prune juice, apple juice and peer juice.

7. Corn syrup

What Causes Constipation in Children

2011-09-12T01:01:00.000-07:00

A CHANGE IN SCHEDULE

Something in the child's daily rhythm could have changed such as yaya leaving, moving house, traveling, or even a change in the usual schedule. It can happen if there is a change in the child's routine or availability of an acceptable bathroom like when they go to school. They withhold stool during the time they normally go and the stool stay longer in the gut or colon.

It is important for your child to move her bowels when she feels the urge. It is the job of the colon to absorb water, and if the stool that is meant to come out is retained for whatever reason, the colon absorbs more water from the stool, making it drier and harder than usual. This starts a vicious cycle with the child withholding defecation and causing further stool retention.

NOT ENOUGH WATER OR FIBER

We need water to dilute the concentrated food we eat. We also need fiber for bulk to push the stools forward. If your child has a viral illness that leads to fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, he will need more fluid than usual. Many parents of constipated children clearly recall a viral illness heralding their child's constipation problem. If your child doesn't drink enough water, his stool will become hard. So when your child is sick, you must hydrate him even more.

TOO MUCH MILK FORMULA

There only a certain volume of milk our gut can take. Going above that means not giving the digestive tract the chance to digest. Milk cannot replace food. Protein in milk is very different from food. It can settle, ferment, and bubble inside.

On Using Credit Card

2011-09-11T22:36:00.000-07:00

Me and my wife have been using credit card when purchasing something may it me on groceries, clothes and shoes. We also use it in our purchases online. Using credit card is very convenient because you don't have to bring cold cash especially on purchases that are huge. Aside from that, we also get to enjoy some perks like freebies when there are promos.

Proper management and discipline are the keys to using credit card effectively. In our case, we see to it that we keep all receipts of our purchases to keep track of our credit card usage. We also discipline ourselves when purchasing using credit card. We see to it that we'll be able to pay what we have charged in our credit card and that it is within our budget to avoid problems with credit card bills. We also pay our credit card bill before its due date to avoid incurring surcharges.

Being an online shopper, my wife and I are looking for an online credit card that we can apply to. We are looking for a low interest card and something that offers cash rebates like Credit-Card-Surplus. Shopping online is lesser of a hassle and it really is convenient especially if you have a credit card that values customers as well.

Should You Let Your Child Eat Junk Food

2011-09-11T01:04:00.000-07:00

The name speaks for its self "Junk", but..if sweets or junk food aren't introduced early to a child, he wouldn't know what he's missing. Kids may be allowed some junk food if their eating habits have already stabilized. Meaning they can eat their veggies, fruits, and meats in a regular basis. But I don;t encourage giving junk food because it might be habit forming. So give everything in moderation. Lastly if you want your kids to eat healthy food, you have to model that behavior for them by choosing healthy food yourself.

When Should Your Little Girl Ear's Be Pierced?

2011-09-10T01:00:00.000-07:00

For me I think any age is okay. If you want it done early, the baby should have at least received her first anti-tetanus vaccine, which is usually part of DTap-IPV combination vaccine, and the size of her earlobe is big enough so that the earring will be positioned centrally.

Some parents choose to have their baby's ears pierced at birth or during the first year of life while others prefer to wait it out until the child is four or five years old.

If you want to have your kids ears pierced when they are bigger, it is recommended to best wait until the child is emotionally ready to go through the brief pain and understand the process. Parents must be aware that after ear piercing, a great amount of care is required to prevent infection. Alcohol must be dabbed on the earlobe three times a day for at least two weeks. Do not attempts to remove the earring until after two months or so. If there's irritation or some discharge, have you daughter's earlobes checked immediately by your pediatrician.

When is the Right Time Should Your Boy be Circumcised?

2011-09-09T01:06:00.000-07:00

This is a difficult one, for most people its more of a religious or cultural issue, than a medical one. If neonatal circumcision wasn't done, then it can be delayed until the pre-teen or teenage years when the boy can fully understand what he will go through (pain and post circumcision care). It is also best for parents requesting for circumcision of their male children to have both general and local complication explained to the child.

Although there are medical condition that warrant an earlier circumcision such as balanitis xerotica obliterans, a skin condition affecting the male genitalia; recurrent balanoposthitis or inflammation of the foreskin and glans in uncircumcised males; and glans in uncircumcised males; and proven urinary tract anomaly, to reduce the risk of infection with possible local and systemic damage.

A Fast Pain Relief For Your Child

2011-09-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

If your child twists his ankle playing soccer or hurts his arm during gym, give him ibuprofen. A new study published in Pediatrics found that ibuprofen was twice as effective as acetaminophen at reducing pain in kids who came to the emergency room for sprains, bruises, or broken bones. Although both drugs treat fever, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation.

Why Does Your Baby Suck Their Toes or Toe Sucking

2011-09-07T01:04:00.000-07:00

Your little one learns about the objects around her by putting them in her mouth. Nerve fibers in the mouth are more sensitive than those in the fingers, so babies can experience many wonderful touch sensations when they suck on their body parts. While babies love to suck anything they can get their lips on - toys, the remote - many four and five moth olds find it easy to put their feet in their mouth simply because they're so flexible.

Do All Newborn Startle?

2011-09-06T01:04:00.000-07:00

All healthy newborn are born with an evolutionarily programmed involuntary impulse called Moro reflex. So if your baby is startled by the sound of a pot clanking or a siren, for instance, he'll fling his arms wide, spread hid fingers, then grab instinctively - for Mom, of course. Then he'll bring his arms back to his body and relax. Newborn's haven't learned to differentiate between common and uncommon noises. As you little one matures, his brain learns to distinguish sounds and movements and suppresses this primitive reflex.

Why Does A Baby Thump his Head on the Bed when She's Trying to go to Sleep?

2011-09-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen you baby thump his head while trying to go to sleep? Don't be alarmed. It's simply his way of lulling himself to sleep. The thumping may be scary to you, but it's usually nothing to worry about. Studies show that up to 15 percent of healthy children do it, and it's three times more common in boys. It typically starts when babies are around eight months old. Only fie percent of children continue to do it for more than a few months. If a child head bangs after his first birthday, experienced a language delay, and avoids eye contact, talk to your pediatrician.

Why Do Baby Nails Grow So Fast?

2011-09-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that your cute little one's finger nails grow faster then your's? Your baby nails are growing twice as fast as your own, it is because the children's metabolic rate is higher than that of adults so their skin cells (which make up nails) turn over more quickly.

The Reason Why Your Baby Smells So Good

2011-09-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

We all know that our baby smells so good. Do you wonder why? Two words: No Sweat. The apocrine glands which are found in the armpits, breast, and groin and are associated with strong body odor, aren't active in puberty. Another reason she smells so good to may be because her scent is familiar. Each of us has our own odor print. Moms have been known to recognize their newborn by scent alone. One theory for this phenomenon: Olfactory cues from her baby may be circulating in Mom's bloodstream during gestation, giving her an early exposure.

Knowing The Pro's and Con's of your Thermometer

2011-09-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

There's no single way to take your child's temperature, but some methods are more precise than others.

METHOD:

Rectal

ACCURACY:

The Highest

PRO:

It's the best choice for kids up to age three or whenever an exact reading is critical.

CON:

Older kids don't like it.

TIP:

Have you child lie across your lap or in his back with his legs up

METHOD:

Oral

ACCURACY:

Good

PRO:

Most kids four and older can use them correctly, and there's no need to remove their clothing

CON:

The reading can be thrown off if your child doesn't keep the thermometer under her tongue until it beeps.

TIP:

If she's just had a hot or cold drink wait 15 minutes.

METHOD:

Armpit

ACCURACY:

Adequate

PRO:

It's very easy to use.

CON:

If the room is chilly, you may get false or low reading.

TIP:

Many doctors recommend adding 0.5 degree Celsius to the reading for greater accuracy.

METHOD:

Ear

ACCURACY:

Varies

PRO:

It's fast and convenient

CON:

Doctors say the tip is difficult to insert properly, especially for kids under one.

TIP:

For a more precise result, pull child's ear slightly up and back before inserting.

METHOD:

Forehead

ACCURACY:

Varies

PRO:

Temporal artery models record the temperature in seconds and are comfortable for kids.

CON:

It's the most costly type of thermometer.

TIP:

It must be slid midway between the eyebrows and upper hairline for an accurate reading.

Keona's New Fave Movie Rio

2011-08-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty are the movie's Keona would normally watch again and again in DVD. When my brother came to visit us and bought hid DVD collection, I manage to borrow a Rio DVD.

The movie is about "Blu" a captured baby Macaw who was saved by Linda and raised in Minnesota as her companion "pet". Adventures start when ornithologist Tulio finds Linda and tells her that Blu is the last male of his species and takes them to Rio de Janerio for breeding with female bird Jewel. Things get out of hand when Blu and Jewel where stolen by poachers. Well I'm not gonna tell all the detail of the movie, It's best the you should watch it. Blue is voiced by Jessie Eisenburg (The Social Network) and Jewel by Anne Hathaway.

When Keona first saw this movie, she was hooked into it, she loves the birds, and she especially loves the songs in it. Songs she like are Fly Love by Jamie Foxx, Funky Monkey, Mas Que Nada and more. Its almost 2 weeks now and she still keeps on watching the movie over and over again hahahaha. Watch the movie Rio with your family and maybe you will be hooked too, the movie is great and the songs in it.

Really Need Some Sleep

2011-08-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Keona has been late in sleeping this past few days, to be exact she sleeps at night like either 10:30pm, 11pm, Midnight sometimes 1am in the morning. Whoaaa, and I'm suppose to wake up, 5am in the morning for work. I'm really sleepy this past few days, hopefully with next week's Monday and Tuesday already declared no work. So that will be a great time to catch my sleep and be able to update most or all of my sites.

8 Ways to Educate your Child about Mobile Phone Safety

2011-08-23T01:02:00.000-07:00

Mobile phones make it easy for people to send and receive content. Even the unwanted and inappropriate ones. Your child is not an exception. Sexual offenders typically use the mobile phone as bait, as means of connecting with their would be victim. Much like Internet safety, supervision and regulation are the best ways you can protect your child from falling prey to abusers. Some steps you can take:

1. Program only your number and numbers of other people who have a legitimate reason for calling your child (such as caregivers or classmates). Teach your child to never answer calls from other numbers.

2. Some phones can be programmed so that they do not receive calls from unprogrammed numbers.

3. If your child receives a text message from an unknown number or person, your child should never answer and should show this to you.

4. Give your child the cellphone only if you will be apart, and make sure it is turned off when she is in class or it is time to do homework. You may also want to establish a phone curfew, by asking them to surrender their phones to you at a certain time of the night.

5. Set budget caps for load. She can only use a certain amount from her allowance or she cannot spend more than a certain amount in a week or month.

6. Ask from time to time who calls or texts her.

7. Even if your child is older (say, in high school), she should never entertain texts or calls from people claiming to be girls or boys her age who wants to be friends.

8. Even if the text message is from someone they know, if the content make them uncomfortable, they should tell you right away. Emphasize that you will not blame her or get mad.

5 Ways to Help You Sleep Faster

2011-08-20T01:01:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest thinking on how to get that rest and just as important, how to get the very best sleep you can in the time you have, so you wake up refreshed, healthy and happy.

Take an evening stroll. Walking around the neighborhood after dinner aids digestion, so your slumber won't be interrupted by stomach gurgling or heartburn. Do it before the sun sets: Insomniacs who were exposed to natural light at dusk tacked on an extra hour of sleep. Evening light helps reset our internal clock, sending a signal to our body that it's time for bed.
Minimize midnight worrying. Every evening, write down a few nagging issues that are on your mind, as well as what you plan to do about them. You don't have to have all the answers, just a few ideas. Mapping out possible solutions will quiet your mind and help you rest easier literally.
Make your bedroom a blackout zone. Shut the blinds, turn off your computer, keep the TV out of the room, buy a sleep mask. Do whatever it takes to put yourself in total darkness. Even the dim light from a digital alarm clock can affect the body's production of melatonin, the hormone that helps you stay asleep.
Establish a sleep ritual. Creating a presleep that's rhythmic and ritualized conditions your body and brain to realize it is indeed sleep time, helping you unwind and fall asleep faster.
Let in the a.m. light. Morning light has the most potent effect on helping our body get in sync with the day. So open the blinds the moment you awaken and let the sun shine in.

List of Kiddie Account For You Kids

2011-08-19T01:05:00.000-07:00

Why open an account for your child? Its best to start while children are young because they are like wet cement, whatever falls on them makes an impression. If they are only taught to spend, they will grow up to be spenders. But if they are taught how to save, then they will grow up to be savers.

Here are the list of kiddie account you can choose from:

BANK OF THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS(BPI)

Jumpstart Savings

Target Age: 10 to 17 years old

Required Initial Deposit: P500

Interest Rate (per annum): 0.5% for BPI, 0.625% for BPI Family Savings Bank

Added Perks: An ATM savings account that allows parents to transfer money from their account to their child's(think: automated allowance!). Children can also shop in select stores without cash, and reload their cellphones via BPI Express Teller ATMs.

BANCO DE ORO(BDO)

Junior Savers Club

Target Age: 12 years and below

Required Initial Deposit: P500

Interest Rate (per annum): 0.5%

Added Perks: Passbook and ATM card for those seven years old and above, and special discounts as SM Department Store.

Power Teens Club

Target Age: 12 to 19 years old

Required Initial Deposit: P2,000

Interest Rate (per annum): 0.5%

Added Perks: Passbook and ATM card and special discounts as SM Department Store.

METROBANK

Fun Savers Club

Target Age: 18 years and below

Required Initial Deposit: P500

Interest Rate (per annum): 0.5%

Added Perks: A 50,000 educational trust fund, free personal accident insurance, and exclusive discounts and privileges from partner establishments. It also allows others to deposit into the account using Fun Savers Club Gift Checks, as a perfect gift alternative for any occasion.

RCBC

W.I.S.E. (Wise Investors Save Early) Account

Target Age: 7 to 14 years old (For Children below 7, an In-Trust-For [ITF] account can be opened.)

Required Initial Deposit: P500 (P1,000 to avail of free insurance)

Interest Rate (per annum): 0.5% once am average daily balance of P5,000 is reached

Added Perks: Free personal accident insurance for the child and parent for one year.

DEVELOPMENT BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES

Youth Savings Account

Target Age: up to 14 years old

Required Initial Deposit: P1,000

Interest Rate (per annum): 1%

EQUICOM SAVINGS

Kiddie Builders Account

Target Age: 13 years and below

Required Initial Deposit: P1,000

Interest Rate (per annum): 1%

Added Perks: Free dental benefits from the Kiddie Care Club, plus free fun blocks

Tips on How to Make Your Visit To Your OB Worthwhile

2011-08-18T01:05:00.000-07:00

1. Take not of the changes you are undergoing and ask your OB to explain what these are and what their implications are.

2. Know your Medical History so you can properly brief your doctor about your medical condition. This will help your OB prescribe the right medicine and treatment especially when you get sick during pregnancy. It would be helpful to take note of the following:

a. Allergies

b. Your blood type

c. Disease that run in the family

d. Previous diagnosis / any sickness that required hospitalization or treatment

e. Immunization shots taken

f. Recurring disease

3. Ask your doctor if there are certain foods you need to limit or increase. You can also request him/her to refer you to a Nutritionist-Dietitian to help you compute the amount of food that you need. Ensuring that you are supplied with the necessary micro and macro nutrients such as Folate, DHA, GA, Iron, Calcium, Vitamin D, Carbohydrates and Protein during pregnancy will help you feel assured that you are taken care of.

4. Know your ideal weight based on your physique every month.

5. Ask your doctor for thing to take note of per trimester (warning.danger signs). Each patient will have different pregnancy situations and it would be best to get advice specific to your pregnancy. Remember that each pregnancy is unique and it is not advisable to self diagnose and self medicate based on your friends experience.

Custody Battle: In the Child's Best Interest

2011-08-17T01:06:00.000-07:00

When deciding on the custody of a minor, the courts take into account the particular financial, social, and moral circumstances of each parent. In case the court determines that neither parent is fit to take care of the child, custody may be awarded to a surviving grandparent, eldest brother or sister, the child's actual custodian, or any other person deemed suitable by the court.

The general rule" A child under seven years of age shall not be separated from his mother unless the court finds compelling reasons to order otherwise, such as neglect, abandonment, unemployment and immorality, habitual drunkenness, drug addiction, maltreatment of the child, insanity, and affliction with a communicable illness.

When a child is over seven years old, he may state his preference. But this may be disregarded when the court determines that the chosen parent is unfit or incapable of caring for the child. Ultimately, the grant of custody over a child may always be modified depending on the circumstances and the primary consideration shall always be the best interest of the child.

Important Reminders When Raising Twins

2011-08-16T21:02:00.000-07:00

The most important aspect in raising twins is allowing them to discover their own person. Here's how parents can build individuality in them:

Never compare. Avoid labeling (such as "the smart one" or "the athletic one") because this will limit her potential. Make it a habit to call them each by their names.

Identify each child through an item. (such as a different backpack or shoelace) to discourage people from guessing based on physical appearance (such as "the heavier one")

Dress them similarly but not identically. This will help the child know that she is her own person and has her own things; give them their own closet space for their belongings.

Spend alone with with each child. This will allow you the opportunity to see each child's personality as a while and not just as a part of the other.

Build each child's interest without forcing one or the other to be the way; like taking one twin to a soccer game and the other to a guitar class.

Show affection to each child with individual praise and recognition. Make sure you give all this equally no matter what.

Weekend Stroll with Keona

2011-08-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

This past week has been really great for the family. My brother who came over from Singapore treat us with a sumptuous dinner at the Abreeza mall. My little girl had a blast since she loves strolling very much and of course, we also love eating. Grandpa suggested that we eat at Hukad restaurant, one of the family's favorite lately because they serve really yummy foods although a little pricey, but it's worth the money you spend. Keona loves crispy pata very much and she likes mango juice as a drink.

After eating, we usually go for a stroll in the mall. Keona loves to go for a ride in the atrium. There is a little playground there where kids can play around. When Keona gets bored in the play ground, we let her ride her favorite animal character for around 3 minutes for just $ .25. She could ride it six times and she herself would manipulate the steering wheel.

Aside from those rides, we go to the different boutiques and stores and look around if there are something interesting. What I love about malling is the opportunity of getting around and seeing people of different walks of life. I get to bump some friends and also get to see different people of different hairstyles and fashion styles, some pretty and elegant while others also looks weird and plain trying hard. When we leave for home and went to the parking lot, I saw a car that has an Anti Obama bumper stickers on it. It caught my attention because that's the first time I saw that kind of sticker. Looks cute though:).

Foods That are not good For Your Child

2011-08-12T01:01:00.000-07:00

Nutritionist advises parents to read food labels and stay away from the following:

Trans Fatty Acids or Hydrogenated Oils. Commonly found in margarine and chips disrupts the communication channels of the brain. It needs some fats to function properly, but no amount of trans fat is healthy. Plus, it's bad for the heart.

Hugh Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS). Found in sodas and other sugar laden bottled drinks only impedes brain development. This highly processed sugar produces ill effects not only in the brain, but in the whole body, too. It really tires the brain.

Highly Processed Food like Chips, Canned Goods, and Instant Foods, have high amounts of chemical preservatives which are definitely not brain-friendly. They can adversely affect memory and motor skills. So make sure you eat food that's fresh and free from preservatives.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Child

2011-08-11T01:04:00.000-07:00

Parents adopt various "rules" when it comes to naming babies. The more practical ones include giving your child a name that..

is easy to pronounce in most languages
others can easily spell
is short and singular (for someone with long surnames)
is not owned by an infamous character
hasn't already been "coveted" by a relative
has a meaning you like
goes well phonetically with your surname
doesn't form monikers or initials that might be made fun of (like P.O.O. or R.I.P.)

3 Germ Hot Spots to Keep in Mind

2011-08-10T01:03:00.000-07:00

Bacteria and viruses can lurk just about anywhere, but they really love to hang out on some of the stuff parents have to touch constantly.

Grocery cart handles. A University of Arizona study found that 55 percent of them were contaminated with fecal matter. Carry hand sanitizer in your purse, and use it when you've finished doing your shopping.

You kitchen sink. It's covered in germs - 500,00 of them per square inch. Why? When you rinse some foods, particularly raw fruits and veggies, bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella wash down the drain and accumulate there. Scrub the sink with bleach and water at least twice a week.

Playground equipment. When researchers from The University of Arizona College of Public Health examined various playgrounds, they found feces, urine, and even blood on the equipment. Always wash up when playtime's over.

What Causes Teeth Grinding on Children and How to Stop Them

2011-08-09T01:05:00.000-07:00

Teeth grinding or bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorder, as three out of 10 children grind their teeth. Thankfully, most outgrow it. The cause of bruxism is unknown. In children, teeth grinding may be a response to changes in the mouth, such as pain or erupting teeth.

Stress is also a recognized cause of bruxism. A tired child or once who worries about school test or arguing parents can experience enough stress to prompt teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques such as drinking a glass of milk before sleeping and listening to soft music can help calm a child and reduce stress. Hyperactive kids, those with certain conditions such as cerebral palsy or who are on certain medications can develop bruxism.

Bruxism usually goes undetected with no adverse effects. But it can cause the wearing down and sensitivity of teeth or chipping of their enamel. In extreme cases, it can cause severe pain and jaw problems. Wearing a mouth guard can help reduce further damage on the teeth.

Childhood Nail Biting Habits

2011-08-08T18:20:00.000-07:00

Nail biting is one of the most common childhood habits. Other common habits include hair twirling, thumb sucking, and nose picking. Most children go through this phase and come out of it spontaneously. The habit itself is not considered an illness, but it may cause some medical complications: nail infections or ingrown nails for the nail biter, nosebleeds for the nose picker, or dental problems for the thumb sucker. Punishment or harsh words have not been found effective in stopping these habits and may even prolong them. In the meantime, if your child bites her nail, why not make a game of it and let her show you that her hands are clean, at least. Hopefully, that alone may distract your child from the habit.

Planning to make a Buy and Sell website.

2011-08-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Kadayawan is just weeks from now, and there are plenty of exhibits that is being shown on some establishments. Last year I went to Central Bank to watch some exhibit, and there were plenty of products that was really great. Although last year I went there just to take picture for my site, but this year aside from taking photos I'll also gonna do some research and inquiries on products that I would like to buy and sell. Before if you go buying and selling you have to pay much for advertising, promoting the product through newspapers or maybe giving handouts of the products on the streets, but with the Internet nowadays you have another resource to advertise that product of your's.

Although it would require much work, a budget for the domain, for the hosting, a web programmer. Yup it's a risk, but every business there is always risk. But first things first, I still have to choose what product to buy and sell. Of course there is always the option to buy online and sell it online, a friend of mine even suggest to look into buy or sell websites. He said if you can buy a website and if that site would earn big try holding it for a while, but if you can sell it more than the price when you bought it, it would also be good. Wow, I think that would be a great, and it would also be another alternative of mine.

Simple Internet Guide For Parents

2011-07-31T17:18:00.000-07:00

The internet isn't called the information superhighway for nothing. It's one of the best educational tools your children can have, and many schools incorporate tasks that would require your child to go online. But the internet does not judge the quality of the information it provides. So as a parent, that's your job. Here are some tips and rules to protect your child:

Learn how to use the Internet. This is very important if you want to be the right guide for your child. Check out www.netlingo.com for a list of cyber words a parents should know.

Set down Internet rules in your house. Considerations include how many hours of Internet time during weekdays and weekends, what items can be downloaded, which websites are prohibited, etc.

Ask your children never to give out your address, phone number, last name and other pieces of information that could identify them or you. Also, don't let them share password with anyone, except you.

Make sure your kids tell you right away if they receive any message that's mean or improper.

Tour the Internet with your child to get a sense of what sites he likes to visit, the blogs he reads, and the social network he belongs to. Be involved with his Internet friends as you are with his other friends and activities.

Protecting your home from Dust Mites

2011-07-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Dust mites are tiny organisms that are distantly related to spiders. They thrive most on humid conditions. Bedsheets, pillows and blankets are perfect homes for these bugs. Though seemingly harmless, these creatures and their fecal matter are allergens that could signal itchiness and asthmatic attacks. Since dust is virtually indispensable. Follow this tips to minimize dist mite exposure:

1. Keep indoor humidity as low as possible.

2. Fix any sources of water leaks in the house, particularly the basement.

3. Eliminate surfaces that collect dust, like carpets and upholstered furniture. Smooth surfaces keep dust levels low.

4. Discard old papers that magazines dusts. Seal unused blankets and sheets in plastics bags.

5. Use vacuums with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

6. Place stuff toys in a freezer overnight once a week to kill dust mites.

Learning About Real Estate

2011-07-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a lot lately about financial management and financial freedom because I’m very interested to learn about the ropes of becoming my own boss or becoming an entrepreneur. When I became a parent to my little darling, my perspectives in life have changed so much. Gone are the days when I was very carefree and easy-go-lucky, going to places anytime I want, spending money on whatever that interests me. Nowadays, I need to spend quality time with my family and I don’t have that “time luxury” when I am just a mere employee. That is why, I want to transform myself from being an employee to being an entrepreneur.

I have been looking into so many opportunities. I have been interested with the real estate because it’s very lucrative especially in my place where it is rapidly urbanizing. My friend who is into real estate management shared so many things about this venture and I am learning from him a lot. He also made mention about the advantages of looking into landvoice fsbo which offers great deals. As of this time, I’m really into reading a lot, digesting what I have read and learning so that I may be able to transform what I learned into action and hopefully live my dream of becoming an entrepreneur in the real estate business.

Tips on Improving Your Home's Emotional Climate

2011-07-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

There are all sorts of families. Some are noisy, others are quiet. But no matter what kind of families and parents there are, the home has to be a place of love, encouragement and acceptance for kids to feel emotionally safe and secure. It also has to be a source of boundaries and limits. Here are some suggestions to improve your home's emotional climate:

1. Watch What You Say. When parents consistently blame kids in exaggerated ways, children feel overly guilty and ashamed and withdraw emotionally. That's why criticism should be done constructively. Cite causes that are specific and temporary.

2. Provide Order and Stability. A predictable daily framework, clear and consistent rules, and an organized house make the whole family more relaxed and comfortable. This spells emotional equilibrium and gives reassuring and familiar support during times of conflicts.

3. Hold Family Meetings. Regular family meetings give each one a chance to air and resolve grievances, as well as share good news.

4. Encourage Loving Feelings. Researchers have found that parents who spend time playing, joking with and sharing their own thoughts and feelings with their kids have children who are more friendly, generous and loving.

5. Create Rituals. Setting aside special times of the day or week to come together as a family gives the children a sense of continuity. Which stays with them as they change and grow. It could be Mass and lunch as a family every Sunday, for example.

Popcorn loving little Girl at Abreeza Mall Davao

2011-07-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

Grandma and grandpa took Keona to have a snack at Abreeza mall. Me and wifey was already set to leave office when they called us to meet them there. When we arrive Keona was busy eating popcorn, she loving the popcorn she didn't even notice we're already right beside her. Here are photos of her eating popcorn.

Simple Tips to Encourage Your Child's Imagination

2011-07-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

Do you sometimes wonder if playing make believe does your child any good? Yes, undoubtedly. Below are some of the reasons why you should encourage your child when he plays doctor, or when your child plays house.

Develop social skills. By playing around pretend, your child learn how to relate with other people's feelings. They become more willing to play fair, to share, and to cooperate.

Build self confidence. When your girl stands in front and imagine herself a teacher or plays mother, that boosts her confidence and affirms she has abilities and gifts.

Boost intellectual growth. Using the imagination is the beginning of abstract thought. This is important when the child starts to go to the school where a child will have to learn that numerals stand for a group of objects, that letters symbolize sound, etc.

Practice language skills. When your child plays with the neighboring kids or her own siblings, they talk a lot. This helps boos her vocabulary, improve sentence structure and enhance communication skills.

Work out fears. When your child indulges in role playing, it helps him gain a sense of control over things that are big and fearsome, like monsters for example. It also helps him vent confusing feelings he might have.

So read to your child daily before he sleeps, or make up a story of your own. Books offer children the opportunity to visit other worlds and create new ones of their own.

Important Road Safety For Kids

2011-06-26T01:03:00.000-07:00

Everyday thousands of children walk to school, playgrounds or the homes of their friends, often close to, or having to cross, busy roads. Parents and schools do their best to reduce the risk of accidents by sending children strong messages such as "Stop, look and listen" and "Look left, look right, look left again, before crossing the road."

Tests show that primary school children have poor peripheral vision (seeing what's coming from the side) and directional hearing (hearing where things are coming from). And they are not good at telling how far away an oncoming vehicle is, or judging its speed. All this means that it is simply not enough to make sure that young children thoroughly learn and understand the rules of the road.

The most important message is that adult supervision is necessary when children are near traffic, and critically importnt when they have to cross the road.

Signs That your Child is on Dope

2011-06-25T01:05:00.000-07:00

It is not always easy for parents to tell if their child is using or experimenting with drugs. Some of the warning signs include:

Drop in school performance
Decrease in out of school activities (such as sports)
Red eyes
Always tired
Suddenly having a new set of friends
Irregular behavior and mood swings
Withdrawal from family contact
Changed eating pattern
Money or valuable items going missing

Of course, many of these are features of normal adolescence, so tread warily if your suspicions are raised. Be honest with your child about your concerns and avoid being judgmental. It will only turn off your teener.

10 Golden Rules of Child Rearing

2011-06-24T01:01:00.000-07:00

Raising children can be the most wonderfully challenging adventure of your life. Here are 10 useful reminders and rules.

Children are not pets.
The life they actually live and the life you perceive them to be living is not the same.
Don't take what your children do too personally.
Don't keep score cards on them - a short memory is useful.
Dirt and mess are breeding ground for well being.
Stay out of their rooms after puberty.
Stay out of their friendships and love life unless invited in.
Don't worry that they never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.
Learn from them; they have much to teach you.
Love them long; let them go early.

Tips For Preventing Diaper Rash

2011-06-23T01:01:00.000-07:00

A diaper rash refers to rashes in baby's diaper area caused by skin disorders, organisms or irritants. Dampness in the diaper area contributes to the rash, leading to bacterial or fungal infections. Other kinds of rashes are seborrheic dermatitis, which shows up as oily, thick, yellowish scales in the inguinal folds, and atopic dermatitis (eczema), which is due to an allergic reaction.

You can apply over the counter diaper creams on the area. Petroleum jelly or zinc oxide based ointments and, in extreme cases, anti fungal creams may also be used. If the rash persists and becomes beefy in appearance, consult a pediatrician.

Here are more tip for preventing diaper rash.

Change soiled diapers immediately
Slightly wet diapers do not need to be replaced at once. Urine itself is not irritating.
Carefully clean baby's bottom between diaper changes. Use plain warm (not hot) water, with or without a very mild soap.
Make sure baby's skin is completely dry before putting on another diaper.
Don't apply unnecessary products on baby's bottom.

Keona Watching the Fountain at Abreeza Mall Davao City

2011-06-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

Keona really got curios when Abreeza Mall turned on its fountain, we had trouble convincing her to go, because she wanted to stay longer and watch in marvel as the color of the fountain changes. It was still a joy to watch her curiosity.

Your Baby Like to Tiptoe Walking

2011-06-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

If your toddler constantly tiptoes, you might think she's got a future as a ballerina, but this walking style is another leftover from life in utero. Babies feet are usually pressed up against their buttocks with their toes pointed downward, which shortens the Achilles tendons. This may make it hard for a young child to put her heels down, and it can take a few months of walking and standing to stretch out her Achilles tendons and calf muscles. If your child never puts her whole foot down or her toes seem stuck pointing down, talk to your pediatrician, these may be signs of cerebral palsy. Also consult your doctor if your child frequently tiptoes after age two. Although some children with autism do walk on their tiptoes, tiptoe walking alone isn't a red flag for autism in toddlers who are otherwise developing normally.

My Baby has Pigeon Toes

2011-06-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

If a child's shinbones or thighbones are slightly twisted, his feet will point slightly inward instead of straight ahead. Less commonly, pigeon toes (or intoeing) develop when the bones in the feet curve in. Both are the result of your baby's position in the womb. The legs and feet fit most efficiently in that limited space when the feet are turned in. Pigeon toes that are caused by curved foot bones usually straighten out during infancy or toddlerhood, but it can take until age six or eight for twisted shinbones or thighbones to resolve on their own. Children who have pigeon toes may trip occasionally when they first start walking, but they're no clumsier than other kids.

Your Baby is Bowlegged

2011-06-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

Almost all babies are born with some degree of bowleggedness because of the cramped quarters in the womb. Since there isn't enough room in there for a baby to stretch his legs, the leg bones (which are still somewhat soft) become a little curved. As children walk and bear more weight on their legs, the bones naturally straighten. New walkers tend to look particularly bowlegged because they bend their knees to help them balance and support their body weight. Don't stress about bowlegs unless your baby;s legs are extremely or unequally curved, or the condition gets worse.

Your Child Has Not Yet Begun Talking

2011-06-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

There are some babies that reach 13 months but still has not begun to talk yet. Because of this some are worried, some might think there might be a problem with their child's language development. Experts says that a common red flag is the absence of your child's first word at about 12 to 18 months. At this age, your child must already have at least 25 words in his vocabulary. Take note that a word is something he says specifically for an object or a person. It's not just a random set of sounds he makes, as in babbling. You might think your child's first word is "mama" but if he call everyone and everything else "mama", then it's not considered a word.

There are also some babies who don't pass through the babbling stage - this is also a cause for concern. They could be deaf or have some other problem.

You should expect your child to start talking between one to two years old. Some parents tend to wait for a child to talk until he is three and already going to school, but if there's a problem, it's not good to waste time.

Does Your Child Stutter

2011-06-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

An expert speech therapist states that stuttering is a normal process children go through. It is sometimes confused with simplification or in tagalog pagkabulol, such as when a child uses W instead of R or L. For example, they say "Wowecoaster" instead of "rollercoaster". They also cut off syllables, such as when they say "jabi" instead of "Jollibee".

Stuttering on the other hand is different from pag uutal. It can be a part word repetition, like "J-j-j-j-jjolibee," or they say the first syllable, pause, and then say the rest of the word. This is also a normal process, but only until around four years old. At this age, your child's speech should be 75 to 90 percent intelligible, when he reaches the age of seven, simplification and stuttering should be very minimal.

Children normally simplify words or stutter because they have yet to master the sound combinations in the language they are trying to learn. Their motor skills are also not yet fully developed.

Treatment for stuttering and simplification depends on the cause, which can be physical or psychological (such as poor self esteem). What you can do when your child stutters or simplifies words is to acknowledge how he says it, and then say the word correctly, so that he will learn.

Should I Use Baby Talk in Talking to my Child?

2011-06-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

Its a common question some parents ask, "Does it really help to talk to babies as if they are adults and not use baby talk?". Experts say YES, the adults are their model, and language is learned by imitating. Observe your child's progress. More importantly, interact often with your child, and provide a language rich environment. You can do this by acting as a "commentator" for your child. Label and describe things for him, and demonstrate how to use them like "This is a frying pan. I fry eggs for your breakfast on this".

When you give him a toy, play with him and show him how to play with it. It's not enough to buy a toy and give it to him to make him watch children's videos. Although he can pick up something from these educational video, one and one interaction with you is best because he can participate in it.

Investing for the future

2011-06-11T05:26:00.000-07:00

Me and my wife are just ordinary workers in an office and our salaries are just enough for our needs. We adopted a lifestyle that would just fit with our earnings. We always try to spend only on the things we truly need and let go of our wants.

We experience a deep financial trouble when our daughter was diagnosed with ureteral reflux. She was often brought to the hospital due to infection and the medicine and doctor's visit eat up a big chunk of our income that we would always become over-dropped. The biggest challenge was when our daughter's pediatric nephrologist told us that she needs surgical correction. It entails a big amount of money and at that point, we were already financially drained. Good thing we were able to secure a loan and pursued with our daughter's operation.

Since then, I have been interested in looking for ways to earn both online and offline to pay off our debt. I also become interested about online investing which I believe, is one way of growing one's money. I think everyone dreams to be financially free and with the right attitude and mindset, achieving financial freedom is possible.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Outing

2011-05-31T01:04:00.000-07:00

While lolo or lola will tell you that baby should not be brought to the mall until he turns 1, a short trip for Sunday lunch won't do much harm to most babies. While lugging baby supplies is important, bring only the essentials - you'll need your hands free to tend to baby.

What to bring:

Extra diapers
Alcohol free wipes
Changing mat
Extra outfits
Burp cloth

Notice no bottles? We encourage you to breast feed.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Cold

2011-05-30T01:03:00.000-07:00

Most infants first illness is the common cold. The virus is usually caught from another person in the household. Seeing your precious little baby get so fussy and almost gasp for air can be heart wrenching, especially when no amount of rocking can soothe him. Never give an infant any cold or cough medicine without consulting your pediatrician.

What you can do:

Use a rubber nasal aspirator to suck out nasal secretions. Choose an aspirator with a narrow tips to fit into a young baby nostrils.
Your doctor will almost probably recommend saline drops to loosen thick nasal secretions.
Turn off air conditioning during the illness; use a humidifier.
Bring him to a pediatrician if a fever or seizure develops, colds last longer than four days, or baby has difficulty feeding.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Visit to the Dentist

2011-05-29T01:02:00.000-07:00

A baby should see a dentist by age 1, says Dr. Bessie Buendia, a pediatrician. Some parents put off visiting the dentist since baby's milk teeth will fall off anyway. But starting good oral care early is best.

What you can do:

See a pediatric dentist, specifically. Ask your pediatrician for referrals. A pediatric dentist usually has a more child friendly clinic, with toys or even television on the ceiling to keep your child entertained during check ups.
Tell your child about the visit and what to expect (even if you think your baby doesn't understand you yet). Assure him that the dentist will take good care of him.
Be sure he has no cracked lips or mouth sore because oral inspection may cause pain.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Few Steps

2011-05-28T01:02:00.000-07:00

Witnessing baby's first steps is one milestone all parents look forward to. On the average, a child begins walking between 12 to 14 months, but some walk as early as 9 months and as late as 21 months! Experts say that when it comes to walking, parents can do little more than provide an encouraging environment for walking.

What you can do:

Encourage him to walk. It would be frustrating to always hear, "No, not there, it's not safe," or "Oops, you might break that."
Set a safe environment. Remove obstacles, such as chairs or toys. Have the area cushioned or padded, if possible.
Be very careful with using walkers, especially if your home has stairs. If possible, avoid walkers altogether. The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued warnings against their use.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Solid Foods

2011-05-27T01:08:00.000-07:00

Pediatrician recommend waiting until baby is around 6 months before introducing solids. Some doctors recommend ride and cereal, mashed or pureed vegetables or fruits. Discuss your options with your pediatrician and ask for the pros and cons of each food group. What's more important is to give baby three to five days to get used to one food before introducing a new one.

What you can do:

Take out those bibs! For the baby's first solid meal, he should be made to sit upright.
Feed him only when he's hungry. Schedule the meal one hour after nursing.
Give him only one solid meal a day.
With each mouthful, give only enough food to cover the tip of a teaspoon. Also expect much of the food to ooze out as everything from eating from a spoon to the texture of non liquid is very new to baby.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Diaper Rash

2011-05-26T01:01:00.000-07:00

Diaper rash is very common but should never be ignored as it can be quite painful. Wetness, irritation from urine and stool, or allergy to specific diapers can be some of the trigger factors.

What you can do:

Expose baby's bottom to air as much as possible.
Use plain water to clean his bottom especially when at home; reserve alcohol free wipes for trips.
Apply diaper rash cream but don't pile it on; it can affect the absorbency of disposables.
If a rash does not improve in two to three days, call your pediatrician.

Practical Guide on your Baby's First Bath

2011-05-25T01:03:00.000-07:00

Most health care professionals suggest waiting until the umbilical cord has fallen off and the circumcision wound has healed before giving giving baby a tub bath. You can sponge bathe baby until then. Turning a slippery baby on his tummy is no easy feat, so try to give the bath when he is calm and full. Expect the baby to cry, so sing or talk calmly to him and remember to make it quick.

What you can do:

Prepare all supplies: lukewarm water, baby tub, washcloth, baby bath soap or body wash, cotton balls, towel, blanket (or another towel), clean diaper and outfit.
Fill tub with two inches of lukewarm water. Use your elbow to test if temperature is warm, not scalding.
Wash baby's hair before putting him in the tub so he won't get chilled. Dry his head well.
Use wet cotton balls to wipe baby's eyes from the inner corner outward. Then wash behind the ears and the entire face. Work your way around baby's neck and down to the torso. Wash genitals and bottom last.
Dry baby thoroughly and dress him. Keep undressed body parts wrapped in a blanket or extra towel.

Chest Blow can be Deadly for Young Players

2011-05-11T01:01:00.000-07:00

Kids into sports such as hockey, football, or baseball face the risk of sudden death form a hard chest blow despite wearing protective chest gear, American researchers warn.

Sports equipment sold on the market may not sufficiently protect young athletes if a blow is delivered directly over the heart at a particular time in its cycle, prompting an irregular heartbeat called ventricular fibrillation, according to a new study presented by the American Heart Association.

Such a RARE but fatal blow can come from a ball, bat, hockey stick, puck or hard contact with another person. The study authors recommend the need for better chest protection to make the sports field safer for young athletes.

7 Resolutions for Closer Family Ties

2011-05-10T23:25:00.000-07:00

1. I will talk to my children more often. Some parents only talk to their kids when they get in trouble. But family discussions need not be like a third degree interrogation. Chat them up while on the road or doing the dishes together. Show that you are there to listen, not to judge.

2. I will listen and learn. Don't be afraid to see things from your children's point of view. As they mature, they can make more decisions and express themselves better. Understand and take their perspective seriously.

3. I will be a good role model. Role modeling is important because you are your child's first teacher, and no matter how much your child may seem to dislike you, deep down he wants to be proud of you and emulate you.

4. I will be more demonstrative and affectionate. Affection is very important in the development of your children as well as the development of your family. Touch is the universal language of love. Hold your children's hand, pat them on the back or shoulder, hug them.

5. I will boost self esteem. Bonding time is enjoyable for children only if they feel accepted, loved and wanted. Encourage them to be confident in small or big house or school projects, because their self esteem lowers as they grow older.

6. I will spend more face time with my family. With the 3G cell phones and other techie stuff, we think a call, a text message or a chat window passes off as communication. But this only works if you want to inform your kids of something. Take the time to really connect with your children by making face time.

7. I will make sure we stick to our resolutions. Change is a long and arduous process that needs consent and commitment from all family members. If kids are determined to have more family bonding moments, it'll be easier to repair gaps and silences; otherwise, give it some time and don't give up.

How To Loose Post Pregnancy Weight

2011-05-10T01:03:00.000-07:00

Moms naturally want to reclaim their figures just as fast. Well, you could, but only with the help of a box office hit to pay an entourage of dietitians, cooks, personal trainers, massage therapist, yoga instructors, Pilates coaches and yes, throw in a psychiatrist, too!

There is no magic formula for post pregnancy weight loss. To know the best time to start shedding pounds, ask your doctor when it is safe to diet or exercise, particularly if you had a difficult pregnancy or a C-section. Start slowly and be patient. Ideally, lose only about half a pound per week, whether you are breast feeding or not. Set reasonable goals for yourself and take pride in your new family instead of focusing on your weight.

TIPS TO GET BACK IN SHAPE

Eat right
Always watch what you eat and keep these in mind:
1. Make every calorie count! Stay within an optimal calorie range as determined by your doctor or nutritionist. Breast feeding mothers should maintain at least a 1,500 daily calorie intake. Always choose foods that are nutrient dense. Meals and snacks should all be high in vitamins, minerals, calcium, protein and fiber.

2. Ditch junk food, fast food and highly processed snack foods. To fight these temptations, fill your kitchen with healthy snacks and make as many home cooked meals as possible. Some good snack choices include granola bars, fruits and vegetables, low fat cottage cheese or yogurt, whole wheat crackers with low fat cheese, smoothies or a hard boiled egg.

3. Choose high calcium, low fat or fat free dairy products, and opt for the leanest cuts of meat and poultry. Fish, shellfish, beans, eggs, nuts, and tofu are excellent low fat sources of protein and vitamins. Calcium and protein are important nutrients for breast milk.

4. Keep fiber intake high with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain cereals and whole wheat products. Whole grains contain more nutrients and fiber than refined grains, such as white rice, white bread or plain pasta. Most people get the bulk of their fiber at breakfast with whole grain cereals, oatmeal's or whole wheat bread.

5. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins and drink lots of water. Do this especially after breast feeding and exercising.

Exercise with ease
When you get the green light to resume exercising (usually six weeks after a vaginal delivery), start slowly with light aerobics activities such as walking, stationary cycling or swimming.
Remember also to:

Keep sessions short at first and increase gradually, if you feel pain, dizziness, blurred vision, shortness of breath, or an increase in vaginal bleeding, stop immediately.
Do Kegel exercise to tone your pelvic floor muscles. While sitting, standing or lying down, simply tighten your pelvic muscles as if to stop stream of urine. Do this for five seconds at a time, five times in a row.

How To Trim Your Little Boys Hair

2011-05-08T01:02:00.000-07:00

I have posted earlier about how to trim your little girls hair, so here is also a post on how to trim your little boys hair. Trimming your boy's hair should be less complicated than a girl's hair.

Don't use a razor or blade in trimming. Use a clipper and its attachments instead to avoid accidental snips to the scalp (or ear!). Lightweight clippers allow you to set the desired length or cut, ranging from a semi bald look to completely bald by running them across the head repeatedly.

The buzzing and vibrating sounds of the clipper can be disturbing, so use only if the boy is already familiar with it.

Stick to the classic barber's cut (where sides and back are trimmed thin).

How we Got our Humble Abode

2011-05-07T03:26:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of things to consider when building a family. You get to decide with your spouse the size of your family, the kind of lifestyle to adopt, the source of living you need to have to fund the basic needs of your family like clothing, food and shelter.

When me and my wife got married few years ago, our first concern is our house. We wanted to have a house with just enough space for the family we planned to raise and it has to be in a harmonious, friendly and safe neighborhood. Since, we spent a considerable amount of money during our wedding, we were hard up sourcing funds for our dream abode. We evaluate our financial status and look for ways to get free credit score report. We have been very resourceful to get a loan to pay for the housing equity.

After several inquiries and site visits to a number of housing developments in our place, we have chosen were we wanted to build our nest. We filled up forms and several documents and we have our house mortgaged and the total amount is amortized through my wife's salary deduction.

How To Trim Your Little Girls Hair

2011-05-07T01:12:00.000-07:00

If your little one screams mightily at the sight of a hair salon, why not give her a haircut yourself and save money.

Tools you need:

Pair of scissors
Plastic comb
Soft brush
Water sprayer
Powder
Blow dryer (optional)
Cape (optional)

Heres how:

1. Wash hair then towel dry, or wet hair using water sprayer. Girls hair is usually fine and smooth, so scissor blades may slide easily as you snip. Avoid this by dampening the hair. Have your child wear a cape so snipped hairs won't fall on her neck and shoulder's, making her itch. Some girls, though, find cape suffocating, so don't force if she resists.

2 .Comb then section hair. Sectioning helps to keep snipping organized. With a comb, part hair in the middle into two sections, but leave hair around the forehead and nape unsectioned. Coil up the left and right sections, then clip in place.

3. Trim smaller sections. Work first with the unsectioned part near the nape. With a comb, gather a small section and hold securely between the index and middle fingers. Guiding the scissors with your fingers, trim hair to desired length. This technique also positions your hand between the scissors and child's head to shield her from the blades should she move. Finish off this part entirely before moving to another section of hair. Once done with the nape, unclip a section of hair on one side of the head. Use the same technique to trim this section. Use length of hair at the nape to guide how long the other sections should be. Comb hair down once in a while to check length against the finished sections.
For an even cut, remember

Don't cut too much hair at once.

Dampen hair with water sprayer once it begins to dry.

Have someone hold the lass's head still to ensure a more accurate cut.

4. Trim bangs last. Comb bangs downward. Little by little, trim across, maintaining an even line. To keep bangs wispy, not too full and thick, fringe to 1/2 inch deep unless you want it longer. As a finish, you can blow dry the hair to add volume.

What to Do When Your Child has Tonsillitis

2011-05-06T01:02:00.000-07:00

Tonsillitis is when the tonsils become infected and swollen. The tonsils, those fleshy lumps at the back of the throat on each side of your mouth, help babies build up immunity to germs, however after the child's first year of life they become unnecessary.

If you think your child has tonsillitis here are the things you should do:

Bring your child to the doctor. Although most cases of tonsillitis are caused by a virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics, it is important that the child with a sore throat visit the doctor. Why? To make sure that if the tonsillitis is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus, he gets treated properly. Untreated tonsillitis caused by this germ can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart disease or inflammation of the kidneys.

Rest. Both children and adults with tonsillitis need rest to recover.

Relieve pain and fever. Tonsillitis is one of the infections that cause intense pain and very high fever. Giving over the counter painkillers or anti fever medications, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help make your child comfortable.

Fluid up. A child with tonsillitis needs to drink lots of fluids, even if drinking hurts. Do not worry if your child has not eaten much a few days, as long as he is drinking. Offer cold drinks or ice cubes to suck on. Jelly and ice cream may be given, contrary to popular belief too avoid sweet treats. Children should be brought to the doctor if they have not managed to drink anything for about 15 hours.

Gargle. A gargle every few hours with warm salt water (one level tablespoon salt to one cup water) can relieve sore throat, remove secretions and promote healing.

Consider surgery. Some people who have frequent bouts of tonsillitis will require an operation to remove the tonsils. Ask your doctor if he thinks that a tonsillectomy is in order.

Common Causes of Very High Fever in Kids

2011-05-05T01:09:00.000-07:00

Fever, or body temperature greater than 37.2 degrees Celsius (oral) or greater than 37.5 degrees Celsius (rectal), is a telltale sign of an infection, but the height of the fever is a poor gauge of the seriousness of the illness. Simple infections may cause very high fever while potentially fatal infections may have low grade fever. The most common causes of very high fever in children are:

Tonsillitis
Ear infections
Typhoid fever
Urinary tract infection
Flu
Benign viral infections presenting with high fever and rashes, such as roseola and fifth disease

Call your doctor if:

Your child is 5 weeks old or younger
Oral temperature is 38.3 degrees Celsius or higher
Your child is lethargic, irritable (crying for hours even with minimal stimulation, cannot be consoled), coughing, or has difficulty breathing, a stiff neck or a seizure.

Useful Tips for your Childs Teething Troubles

2011-05-04T01:09:00.000-07:00

Most children will get their first tooth between the age of 5 and 7 months. Each time a tooth breaks through or erupts, the skin over the tooth will become red, swollen and shiny. Some children may find this painful. They may fuss and have trouble sleeping. To reduce the pain of teething, the following measures are useful:

Gently but firmly massage or press on your baby's gum with a clean finger or soft cloth. But stop if this upsets your child more.

Give baby something cold to suck or chew on. If he has started solids, a frozen banana or a block of ice may be soothing (don't leave a baby on his own with these). You may also try freezing moistened flannel or plastic teething rings.

Rub teething gel on the gums if the child is very upset. Use as directed on the packet. Teething gels can be bought over the counter at local pharmacies. Paracetamol drops or syrups may also help.

Take your child to the doctor if teething troubles last longer than three days, or if he has high fever, diarrhea, sore ears, or refuses to drink.

Important Toothbrush Basics to Remember

2011-05-03T23:02:00.000-07:00

Get your child to brush his pearly whites by giving him a toothbrush that he will absolutely adore: a "fun" toothbrush with brilliant colors and wacky shapes. But fun isn't the only requirement; here are other brush essentials to keep in mind:

Choose a toothbrush that's small enough for your child to hold comfortably. A long one may strain his arm while brushing.

Look for small, rounded head. A big headed brush may not reach the tight areas of his small mouth.

Change toothbrush every three months. By then, the bristles are worn out, less effective, and may also harbor harmful bacteria.

Common Allergies among Children

2011-04-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

Atopic dermatitis

The child may develop skin lesions that are red, swollen, itchy, crusty or scaly. In infants, the marks usually appear on the cheeks. Atop dermatitis may be present as early as the first 2 to 3 months of life, disappear, then resurface to around 3 to 5 years.

Allergic rhinitis or hay fever

This refers to an allergic reaction to pollen from trees and grass. Symptoms include sneezing, watery and itchy nose, nasal obstruction and, in some instances, watery eyes. It is often seen in children above 3 to 4 years.

Asthma

This common lung disease is characterized by the irritability of the ling airways to certain stimuli. Children with allergic asthma suffer symptoms of cough and wheezing after exposure to allergens like pollen and dust. A child may have asthma at any age, but majority of children experience their first symptoms at around age 4.

Food allergy

Some children have unwanted reactions following ingestion of different types of foods. Shellfish, nuts and other seeds, cow's milk and wheat are some of the foods that are potentially allergenic. Eating these foods cause some children to have swelling of the mouth or lips, generalized, itchy skin eruptions (wheals) or asthma. Allergy to cow's milk in infants may manifest as gastrointestinal upset (crying and irritability), vomiting or watery, blood streaked stools.

How to tell if a child has an Ear Infection

2011-04-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Most Children affected by otitis media do not yet have sufficient speech and language skills to tell someone what is bothering them. That often makes the disorder hard to detect. Parent and caregivers should watch for these common signs.

Unusual irritability

Difficulty sleeping

Tugging or pulling at one or both ears

Fluid draining from the ear

Loss of balance

Unresponsiveness to quiet sounds or other signs of hearing difficulty such as sitting too close to the television or being inattentive

If you notice any of these in a child, consult the doctor. The doctor can diagnose an ear infection by examining ears with special light instrument. Prompt treatment can relieve pain, cure the infection and prevent permanent hearing loss.

Early to Bed, give Excellent benefits to your Kid

2011-04-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

I know it can be sometimes hard for this energetic bundle of joy to mellow down and get ready to sleep. They almost always beg to stay a little longer, play more, ask for an extra hour to stay on a computer, but all this has to stop, and you have to say "forget it".

There was a study conducted on fourth and sixth grade children that up to one extra hour of sleep markedly improved their performance on tests assessing attention span and memory, both of which are necessary for optimum school performance.

If fourth graders gets an extra hour of sleep, they can function on tests as if they were two or more years older.

Too much Fruit Juice can be Bad for Kids

2011-04-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Kids love fruit juice. But that tasty package of vitamins and minerals has a price. Juices is loaded with natural sugar, so drinking too much can cause obesity, stunted growth, digestive problems and tooth decay.

If children eat full meals on top of that juice, they risk obesity. If they full up only on fruit juice, failing to receive nutrients from a well balanced diet, they may face malnutrition or short stature.

Too much juice also means too much sorbitol, one of three natural sugars in most fruit juices. Our intestines can't absorb it, so it ferments in the colon, causing stomach aches, gas and sometimes diarrhea. White grape juice provides one alternative: it doesn't contain sorbitol.

Here are some tips from experts:

Limit preschoolers to 4 to 6 ounces of juice a day - 8-12 ounces for older children and teens. Make sure what they drink is 100 percent juice, not a fruit flavored beverage.

Dilute juice with club soda or mineral water.

Milk and water are still excellent choices for kids. You can try spicing up water with lemon or other fruit.

Limit carbonated drinks. By the time kids turn 13, they are drinking four times as much carbonated drinks as fruit juices.

Common Symptoms During Your First to Third Trimester

2011-04-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

Your body will change dramatically during pregnancy, Some of these changes may be uncomfortable. Talk with your health care provider about the best ways to ease discomfort. You may have to try a few different methods before you discover ones that work best for you. While each woman's experience is different, the following symptoms are common during pregnancy.

FIRST TRIMESTER( 0 to12 weeks)

This is when most women experience morning sickness. You may need to urinate more often than usual, and you may feel tired and moody. Your breasts will begin to change now, and may be swollen and very tender. They may leak colostrum, a fluid the breasts produce as you prepare for lactation, although this is more common later in pregnancy. Any nipple discharge should be discussed with your provider.

SECOND TRIMESTER (13 to 28 weeks)

Many women experience a return to normal energy levels, and morning sickness will often disappear. Your breasts and belly will grow. You may experience leg cramps, constipation, and a faster heartbeat. During the fourth month of pregnancy, you may feel the baby movie for the first time.

THIRD TRIMESTER (29 to 40 weeks)

Since your baby is growing and your uterus is getting bigger, you may experience shortness of breath because the baby is crowding your lungs. You may have heartburn as your stomach is squeezed and hormones relax parts of your digestive system. Fatigue may return, mainly from the extra work your body is doing, carrying around a baby who is nearly full grown. You may also have backaches. Your legs and feet may swell, and you may have a difficult time sleeping.

How Can a Parent Manage Stress

2011-04-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Coping with the demands of work, school and other activities can put a great deal of stress on family members. But there are ways that parents can manage their own stress and also minimize the negative effects of stress on the entire family.

Parents should learn to manage their own stress by making time for relaxation, exercise, meditation and fun activities. By reducing your stress, you can help lessen your children's stress.

Schedule quiet family time with activities like reading, doing puzzles or art projects or just talking. Set limits on your children's use of television and high tech toys, and be sure you and your children get plenty of sleep.

FaceBook Safety for You and your Kids

2011-04-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some safety measure to follow when using Social Networking Sites especially the most popular of all FaceBook.

Avoid being too specific with the information you post or share online (do not give details of your whereabouts, do not post your birthday or contact numbers, etc).

Avoid posting solo pictures of you child. If possible, post only group photos.

Avoid directly tagging your child's face online. Randomly tag something else to shroud your child's face from stranger's online. People who know you child will already recognize him.

Need to discuss something sensitive? Avoid posting a message on someone;s wall. Use private messaging instead.

Set your privacy settings so that only those close to you or the people you know can view your profile pictures, activity stream, and wall posting.

Avoid being too 'real time' when it comes to posting items on your profile. Try to delay them for at least an hour to avoid being pinpointed.

Dangers that your Kids confront on the Internet

2011-04-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Parents must serve as the first line of defense to protect kids, but they are often uninformed or ill-equipped to deal with these and other evolving threats. It is therefore wise for you to brush up on these threats and learn what dangers for children lurk on the internet and how to protect your young ones from there. Here are some of the hidden dangers in the internet that confront Internet users and your kids today:

VIRUS. Kids can get embedded in their computer, be it a conduit for a Trojan Horse, a staging area for a worm, or they may end up downloading unnecessary cookies and files.

IMPROPER CONTENT. There are numerous sites where a child can learn harmful thing like how to make bombs, site that encourage drug use, forums that discuss the best ways to commit suicide, and areas that foster hate crimes.

PREDATORS. Kids may be subject to various online predators. A child may be exposed to phishing attacks where unscrupulous persons can try to steal their or their parents personal information and identity. Sexual predators, adults pretending to be teenagers, abound in cyberworld. They entice children to reveal personal information and eventually lure them to private encounters that can result in traumatic experiences for kids and teens. Kids who end up in chatrooms may be lured to sex chats leading to a sex "eyeball", prostitution, or even 'sex for benefits' arrangements.

CYBER-BULLYING. The relative anonymity the Internet offers sometimes makes kids feel uninhibited and makes them prone to harmful and nasty acts. Kids may be sent unsolicited hate mail, or fall prey to posers who pretend to them on the Internet. Cases where other people open accounts in social networking sites under other people's names and then post false, misleading, rude, or derogatory information are becoming common.

PORNOGRAPHY. The online adult business is a thriving worldwide multibillion dollar industry. It has become easy for kids to get exposed to pornographic materials.

IDENTITY THEFT. Since it become common occurrence for teens to post their private information on the Internet, be it their school, their favorite hangout, and birthday, it has become easy for others to steal someone's identity on the Net as well.