Friday, August 15, 2008

Parenting tips from a Mayo Clinic specialist

http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/CC/00058.html

My patients, their parents and my own children have taught me thousands of lessons since I became a pediatrician, almost 30 years ago. I've learned, among other things, that what's best for children is less complicated than the latest parenting theories might suggest. Parents instinctively know that, but they don't always trust themselves.

Over the years, I've translated these lessons into a set of principles — touchstones, if you will — to help parents address their children's most fundamental needs. I've found it worthwhile to return to these basics whenever I risk losing touch with the core values of parenthood, values that also influence pediatric practice. Perhaps you can use them, too.

1. The one thing your child wants and needs most is your time. Brief periods of intense engagement can't replace shared daily routines, nor can material advantages compensate for lost time. You can replace money, but you can never retrieve time.
2. Do your best as a parent, but accept your imperfections. Your child will forgive your mistakes, because every child knows that perfect is the enemy of good.
3. To your child, your actions say more than your words. Speeches and admonitions are barely audible, but your behavior sends a loud, clear message. Before you admonish, ask yourself three questions: Is it necessary? Is it true? Is it kind? If you want your child to be honest and kind, you should be honest and kind yourself.
4. Listen to your child before you speak. It doesn't matter what you're discussing; the more you listen to what your child tells you, the more effective your conversation will be.
5. Self-esteem is the cornerstone of emotional health. Your child will develop a clear and resilient sense of self only by making his or her own choices, one small decision at a time. When you correct negative behavior, offer two suggestions for preferred behavior and let your child choose between them.
6. The most effective punishment is the temporary and explained loss of your approval.
7. When your child asks a question, give a simple, truthful answer, regardless of the topic. Questions about death, reproduction and similar weighty matters may seem to require exhaustive discussion, but they don't. Providing too much information is like pouring a gallon of tea into a teacup: It wastes the resource and overwhelms the recipient.
8. Make it a daily priority to show respect for our environment's limited resources, and teach your child to do likewise. It will sustain his or her health, happiness and longevity.
9. Your child will form many relationships in life — with friends, teachers, parents and perhaps a few stepparents. Out of all these relationships, yours is unique and will persist. Focus your role accordingly.
10. Your child is not responsible for rewarding your parenting; that gratification comes from within. If it's sometimes elusive, remember that you are engaged in life's most challenging and important endeavor. Parenting is a labor of great joys, deep sorrows and, most of all, lasting satisfaction.

Newborn care: Common-sense strategies for stressed-out parents

http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/FL/00107.html

A newborn will bring a whirlwind of activity and excitement to your home — and plenty of stress and fatigue as well. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned veteran, caring for a newborn can be overwhelming. Use simple strategies to keep your stress under control.

Adjusting to life with a newborn

Round-the-clock baby care can turn your life upside down. Appreciate the joy your newborn brings to your life — and cope with the rest one day at a time. Consider these practical tips:

* Take care of yourself. Resist the urge to count caffeine as a major food group. Instead, eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water and get some fresh air. Do something you enjoy every day, either with your baby or on your own. Good habits will help you maintain the energy you need to take care of your newborn.
* Get plenty of rest. Sleep is at a premium right now. Grab it when you can! Sleep when your baby sleeps. Work out a nighttime schedule with your partner that allows both of you to rest and care for the baby.
* Establish visiting hours. Friends and loved ones may come out of the woodwork to admire your newborn. Let them know what time works best — and ask anyone who's ill to stay home. When you have visitors, don't be afraid to set aside your social graces. Let them care for the baby while you get some much needed rest.
* Go with the flow. It's never too early to establish a routine, but let your baby set the pace. Allow plenty of time each day for nursing sessions, naps and crying spells. Keep scheduled activities to a minimum. When you need to head out, give yourself extra time to pack your supplies and change the inevitable out-the-door dirty diaper.
* Expect a roller coaster of emotions. You may go from adoring your newborn and marveling at tiny fingers and toes to grieving your loss of independence and worrying about your ability to care for a newborn — all in the space of a single diaper change.
* Share your feelings. Chances are, you and your partner are both tired and anxious. Talking about what's bothering you — such as a strained budget or difficulty soothing the baby — can help you stay connected. A shared laugh may help lighten the mood.
* Accept a helping hand. When friends and loved ones offer to help, take them up on it. Suggest holding the baby, folding the laundry, running a few errands — whatever would help you the most.
* Relax your standards. Hide the broom and leave dust bunnies where they lie. Store clean clothes in the laundry basket until you need them — or in piles on the floor, for that matter. Clean the bathroom with a fresh diaper wipe. And yes, cold cereal is acceptable dinner fare.
* Get out of the house. If you're going stir-crazy with a fussy newborn, take the baby out for a walk. If you can, let someone else take over for a while.
* Nurture other relationships. Your newborn needs your love and attention, but you won't let your baby down by spending time with others. Set aside one-on-one time with your other children. Schedule dates with your partner. Meet a friend for lunch or a movie.
* Keep your perspective. The newborn days won't last long. Step back and appreciate the moment — even amid the chaos.

Know when to seek additional help

Parenting is a challenge — even on a good day. If you're depressed or you're having trouble adjusting to life with a newborn, consult your health care provider or a mental health professional. Learning to handle the new stress in your life can help you enjoy the priceless riches parenting has to offer.

What to do when your newborn cries

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-baby/PR00037

Most newborns cry a lot. Just ask any new parent! Find out why babies cry — and how to cope with the tears.

The dream: Your baby sleeps through the night after just a few weeks, gurgles happily while you run errands and only fusses when hunger strikes.

The reality: Your baby's favorite playtime is after the 2 a.m. feeding. Crankiness peaks when you're out and about. You had no idea a baby could cry this much.

Sound familiar?

In any given day, the average newborn cries for more than two hours. Find out why babies cry — and how to cope with the tears.
Decoding the tears

Newborn crying jags are inevitable. Your job is to figure out why your baby is crying and what — if anything — you can do about it. Consider what your baby may be thinking:

* I'm hungry. Most newborns eat every few hours around the clock. Some babies become frantic when hunger strikes. They may get so worked up by the time the feeding begins that they gulp air with the milk, which may cause spitting up, trapped gas or more crying. To avoid such frenzy, respond to early signs of hunger. If your baby begins to gulp during the feeding, take a break.
* I need to burp. During and after each feeding, take time to burp your baby. But don't stop there. Your baby may need to burp between feedings as well.
* I pooped. For some babies, a wet or soiled diaper is a surefire way to trigger tears. Gas or indigestion may have the same effect. Check your baby's diaper often to make sure it's clean and dry.
* I'm tired. Tired babies are often fussy. Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep. For newborns, this often means up to 16 hours — or even more — every day.
* I'd rather be bundled. Some babies feel most secure in a swaddle wrap. Snugly wrap your baby in a receiving blanket or other small, lightweight blanket.
* I want to move. Sometimes a rocking session or walk through the house is enough to soothe a crying baby. In other cases, a change of position is all that's needed. Keeping safety precautions in mind, try a baby swing or vibrating infant seat. Weather permitting, head outdoors with the stroller. You may even want to buckle up for a ride in the car.
* I'm lonely. Sometimes simply seeing you, hearing your voice or being cuddled may stop the tears. Gentle massage or light pats on the back may work, too.
* I'm hot. A baby who's too hot or cold is likely to be uncomfortable. Add or remove a layer of your baby's clothing as needed.
* I want to suck on something. Sucking is a natural reflex. For many babies, it's a comforting, soothing activity. If your baby isn't hungry, try a clean finger or pacifier.
* I've had enough. Too much noise, movement or visual stimulation may drive your baby to tears. Move to a calmer environment or place your baby in the crib. White noise — such as a recording of ocean waves or the monotonous sound of an electric fan or vacuum cleaner — may help your baby relax.
* It's just that time of day. Many babies have predictable periods of fussiness during the day. There may be little you can do but comfort your baby as the crying runs its course.
* My tummy hurts. If you're breast-feeding your baby, he or she may be fussier than usual after you eat spicy or gas-producing foods. Too much caffeine may be an issue as well. If you suspect a certain food is causing trouble, avoid it for several days to see if it makes a difference.

Is it just fussiness, or is it colic?

Some babies have frustrating periods of intense, inconsolable crying known as colic. Colic is often defined as crying more than three hours a day, three days a week for more than three weeks in an otherwise well-fed, healthy baby. Colic episodes are most common in the late afternoon or evening. The crying often begins suddenly and for no apparent reason. During an episode, your baby may be difficult — or even impossible — to comfort.

What causes colic remains a mystery. If you're concerned about colic, consult your baby's doctor. He or she can make sure your baby is otherwise healthy and help you learn how to care for a colicky baby.
Taking care of yourself

It's tough to listen to your baby cry. To take the best care of your baby, it's important to take care of yourself, too.

* Take a break. When you've done what you can, ask your spouse or another loved one to take over for a while. Take advantage of baby-sitting offers from friends or neighbors. Even an hour on your own can help renew your coping strength.
* Make healthy lifestyle choices. Eat healthy foods. Make time for exercise, such as a brisk daily walk. If you can, sleep when the baby sleeps — even during the day. Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
* Remember that it's temporary. Crying spells often peak at about six weeks and then gradually decrease.
* Know when to call the doctor. If you're concerned about the crying or your baby isn't eating, sleeping or behaving like usual, call your baby's doctor. He or she can help you tell the difference between normal tears and something more serious.

It's also important to recognize your limits. If your baby's crying is causing you to lose control, put the baby in a safe place — such as a crib — and go to another room to collect yourself. If necessary, contact your doctor, a local crisis intervention service or a mental health help line for additional support.

Pacifiers: Are they good for your baby?

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pacifiers/PR00067

For many parents, pacifiers are must-have baby gear. Here are the pros and cons, plus pacifier do's and don'ts.

Babies are born wanting to suck. Some even suck their thumbs or fingers before they're born. Beyond nutrition, sucking is often an important method of self-soothing — a comforting, familiar and calming mechanism in a new world.

That's why many parents rank pacifiers as must haves, right up there with diaper wipes and baby monitors. But are pacifiers really OK for your baby? Although the answer to that question is often debated, the American Academy of Pediatrics gives pacifiers the green light throughout baby's first year.
The pros

For some babies, pacifiers are the key to contentment between feedings. Consider the advantages:

* A pacifier may soothe a fussy baby. Some babies are happiest when they're sucking on something.
* A pacifier offers temporary distraction. When your baby's hungry, a pacifier may buy you a few minutes to find a comfortable spot to nurse or to prepare a bottle. A pacifier also may come in handy during shots, blood tests or other procedures.
* A pacifier may help your baby go to sleep. If your baby has trouble settling down, a pacifier might do the trick.
* Pacifiers may help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Researchers have found an association between pacifier use during sleep and a reduced risk of SIDS.
* Pacifiers are disposable. When it's time to stop using pacifiers, you can throw them away. If your baby prefers to suck on his or her thumb or fingers, it may be more difficult to break the habit.

The cons

Of course, pacifiers have pitfalls as well. Consider the drawbacks:

* Early pacifier use may interfere with breast-feeding. Sucking on a breast is different from sucking on a pacifier or bottle. Some babies have trouble learning how to nurse properly if they're given a pacifier too soon.
* Your baby may become dependent on the pacifier. If your baby uses a pacifier to sleep, you may face frequent middle-of-the-night crying spells when the pacifier falls out of your baby's mouth.
* Pacifier use may increase the risk of middle ear infections. However, rates of middle ear infections are generally lowest from birth to age 6 months — when the risk of SIDS is the highest and your baby may be most interested in a pacifier.
* Prolonged pacifier use may lead to dental problems. Normal pacifier use during the first few years of life doesn't cause long-term dental problems. If your child continues to use a pacifier persistently, however, his or her top front teeth may slant out or the upper and lower jaws may be misaligned.

Pacifier do's and don'ts

If you choose to offer your baby a pacifier, keep these tips in mind.

* Wait until breast-feeding is well established. Be patient. It may take a few weeks or more to settle into a regular nursing routine. If you're breast-feeding, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting to introduce a pacifier until your baby is 1 month old.
* Let your baby set the pace. If your baby's not interested in the pacifier, try again later — or skip it entirely. Don't force the issue.
* Choose the one-piece, dishwasher-safe variety. Pacifiers made of two pieces pose a choking hazard if they break. The shape and firmness is up to you — or your baby.
* Buy extras. Once you've settled on a favorite pacifier, keep a few identical backups on hand. Many babies refuse a substitute pacifier.
* Keep it clean. Before you use a new pacifier, wash it with soap and water. To keep fungus at bay, soak your baby's pacifier in equal parts white vinegar and water for a few minutes a day. Allow the pacifier to air dry thoroughly before returning it to your baby. Resist the temptation to "rinse" the pacifier in your own mouth. You'll only spread more germs to your baby.
* Watch for signs of deterioration. Replace pacifiers often. A worn or cracked nipple can tear off and pose a choking hazard.
* Use caution with pacifier clips. Never use a string or strap long enough to get caught around your baby's neck.
* Let sleeping babies lie. If the pacifier falls out of your baby's mouth while he or she is sleeping, don't pop it back in.
* Try other ways to calm your baby. Don't use a pacifier as a first line of defense. Sometimes a change of position or a rocking session may be all that's needed. If your baby is hungry, offer the breast or a bottle.
* Know when to pull the plug. Most kids stop using pacifiers on their own between ages 2 and 4. If you're concerned about your child's pacifier use, consult his or her doctor for suggestions.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Bảo quản và sử dụng sữa mẹ

Bảo quản sữa vừa hút xong:
* Nhiệt độ phòng (tối đa 25 °C): Giữ sữa ở nhiệt độ càng thấp càng tốt. Nếu không có tủ lạnh thì có thể giữ sữa ở nhiệt độ phòng (tối đa là 25 °C) khoảng 5h. Bình sữa phải được đậy nắp chặt. Có thể dùng khăn ướt bọc bình sữa để giảm nhiệt độ
* Túi chườm đá hoặc dùng túi gel lạnh (loại thường dùng để giữ lạnh cho rượu chẳng hạn): nếu nhiệt độ ban đầu của túi chườm đá thấp hơn 4 °C thì có thể giữ được tối đa 24h
* Tủ lạnh (4 °C): 3 ngày
* Tủ đông:
+ Nhiệt độ -15 °C: 2 tuần
+ Nhiệt độ - 18 °C: 3 tháng
+ Nhiệt độ - 20 °C: 6 tháng
Sữa đã rã đông có thể giữ trong tủ lạnh 1 ngày
Để tiện kiểm soát nên ghi ngày tháng hút sữa lên túi/bình sữa. Tôi thường dùng chính bình sữa của máy hút sữa (loại tôi dùng là Medela) hay hộp Avent để chia sữa theo lượng con tôi bú mỗi lần.
(ảnh từ nguồn internet)

Trong trường hợp muốn đổ thêm sữa vừa hút vào bình sữa đã trữ lạnh:
- Nếu sữa cũ là sữa trữ trong tủ lạnh: trong vòng 24h có thể bổ sung sữa mới hút. Lưu ý là thời gian trữ sữa sẽ tính theo thời gian của sữa cũ. Ví dụ: ngày 24/1 tôi cho 1 hộp sữa 100ml vào tủ lạnh. Ngày hôm sau 25/1 tôi cho thêm 100ml sữa nữa vào hộp của ngày 24/1. Như vậy hạn dùng của hộp sữa này là ngày 27/1 (24+3 chứ không phải 25+3)
- Nếu sữa cũ là sữa trữ trong tủ đông thì nên cho sữa mới vào tủ lạnh 1 thời gian cho lạnh (khoảng 30' đến 1h) rồi hãy cho sữa mới vào bình sữa cũ. Mục đích là giảm chênh lệch nhiệt độ vì sữa mới hút thường ấm (nhiệt độ cơ thể) có thể làm rã đông sữa cũ đã đông. 1 lưu ý nữa là sữa mới phải ít hơn sữa cũ (lý do như trên)
Khi rã đông sữa mẹ thì tốt nhất là dùng phương pháp ngâm cách thủy (ngâm bình sữa vào ly nước nóng cho đến khi đạt nhiệt độ mong muốn). Trong trường hợp bất khả kháng thì có thể dùng lò vi ba.


**Sữa mẹ được vắt ra, nếu bé dùng ko hết có thể cho vào tủ lạnh tiếp tục bảo quản trong vòng 24 tiếng trong tủ lạnh (4 °C). 
**Sữa mẹ có thể được trộn với sữa bột trong cùng 1 bình để cho bé bú, nhưng nếu bé dùng không hết, buộc phải vứt sữa đi, do đó nên cho bé bú sữa mẹ trước và sữa bột sau đó để tránh phung phí nguồn sữa mẹ.

Friday, July 25, 2008

What does my baby eat?

6-7 months:
* Fruits: pear, apple, banana, peach, apricot, nectarine, plum, mango, melon
* Vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, carrot, string beans, green beans, pumpkin, avocado, courgette, asparagus, eggplants, champions, turnip celery, tomatoes, garden broad beans (fava bean, faba bean, horse bean, field bean, tic bean), Belgian endive (witlof), cucumber

8-9 months:
* Fruits: oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits
* Vegetables: twice a week you can choose among nitrate-rich vegetables such as spinach, Turnip tops or Turnip greens, endive, beetroot (or table beet), celery, Chinese carbage, and fennel.

10-12 months:
* Fruits: red fruit such as strawberries, raspberries and cherries. Also can give now kiwi, grapes and dates.
* Vegetables: mais/corn and broad beans

Friday, May 16, 2008

Tips: bình sữa & ti giả

Sử dụng bình sữa & ti giả:
- Lần đầu tiên sử dụng: cho vào nồi nước sôi đun ít nhất 10 phút.
- 8 tuần đầu tiên: đun hàng ngày, 3 phút/lần. Khi đun nhớ tháo rời tất cả các bộ phận của bình sữa. Có thể sử dụng lò vi ba để thanh trùng: cho vào tô (sử dung loại tô dành cho lò vi ba), đổ nước ngập và đun tối đa 3 phút (850 Watt)
- Sau đó chỉ cần rửa sạch với nước rửa chén rồi tráng thật kỹ hay cho vào máy rửa chén sau mỗi lần sử dụng và thanh trùng 2 lần/tuần là đủ.

Khi bình "cũ" (bị mờ, không còn sáng đẹp) thì có thể dùng bã cà phê, một ít nước rửa chén và nước cho vào bình, lắc mạnh rồi rửa sạch & thanh trùng. Bình sẽ sáng đẹp như mới.

Không bao giờ để dây buộc ti giả vòng qua cổ của bé. Buộc dây vào ti giả có thể tránh việc ti giả bị rơi mất nhưng lại có thể gây nguy hiểm cho bé

Ti giả hay núm vú của bình sữa phải luôn sạch sẽ và mềm. Nếu có vết nứt thì phải thay ngay vì bé có thể nghiến đứt rời và nuốt → gây nghẹn & thậm chí có thể làm cho trẻ nghẹt thở

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