Entertaining Youngsters With Classic Toys-Play Doh

by: Robert Benson

With video games dominating and transforming the landscape of our pre-teen children with a new virtual world for them to play in, it is refreshing to know that there are still classic toys available for our younger children to enjoy. Let’s look at one of these special toys:

There is a classic toy, invented by two brothers in 1955, that still captures the imaginations of our pre-school children and youngsters alike. That toy, or product is: Play Doh.

Originally a wallpaper cleaner invented by brothers Noah W. McVicker and Joseph S. McVicker, Play Doh was introduced to schools in the Cincinnati area in 1955 because McVicker’s sister-in-law asked if it was a safe alternative to modeling clay. Play Doh was an instant hit and soon the McVicker brothers formed Rainbow Crafts Company to produce and sell their product. Additionally, the brothers showcased their “modeling clay” at a National Education Convention and the word spread to the big department stores, Macy’s and Marshall Field’s. Soon after, Plah Doh was a national hit.

Advertising played a crucial role in the success of Play Doh. Captain Kangaroo, a very popular educator of young children at the time, endorsed Play Doh. So did Miss Frances from the Ding Dong School, another popular children’s television show. In 1960, a character named Play-Doh-Pete, a young boy with a beret was introduced to the advertising campaign. Additionally, the Fun Factory Accessory Playset was added to the product line, which allowed children to squeeze the material into interesting shapes and molds, furthering sales and development of the product.

In 1980 Play Doh expanded its palette to include eight colors, some that glowed in the dark and even some that were scented. It is estimated that more than two billion cans of Play Doh have been sold since 1956 and the total amount of Play Doh manufactured since then would weigh more than 700 million pounds. The ingredients for Play Doh, to this day, remain a closely guarded secret. But it is primarily made up of a mixture of water, wheat flour, deodorized kerosene (or some other petroleum distillate-to provide the smooth texture), salt, a drying agent such as borax (which deters mold), an alum-based hardening agent, colorings and perfume.

Kids all over the world still enjoy Play Doh (it is sold in more than 6000 stores and over 75 countries worldwide) and children can even celebrate National Play Doh Day on September 18th. Some products never go out of style and Play Doh will always have young minds to enlighten and entertain.

About The Author

Robert Benson operates http://www.ezshoppinghere.com a website devoted to helping shoppers find unique gift ideas in unique places with over 400 stores to choose from. Find all your classic toys and more articles about toys at the website.


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Effective Parenting Techniques - How to use Time Out Successfully

by: Henrietta Joyce

Dr Phil in his effective parenting survey of 17,000 people found that the two top challenges facing parents were making punishment work and improving school performance. In my experience as a class teacher and coach I have noticed that the biggest obstacle to maintaining effective discipline within the home is a lack of constructive, consistency discipline. Effective discipline should be positive, constructive and for correction rather than punitive. Many parents look upon discipline as a last resort when they are in a rage and therefore were confused and inconsistent in their use of Time Out.

Picture this! Your child is screaming like you are killing him, arms flaying wildly feet thrashing around. You feel angry and frustrated and you’d like to respond by shouting back at him or worse still giving him a swift slap on the bottom. Does this resonate with you? Well I've experienced this many times too. Tantrums are unfortunately horribly normal. Most young children have tantrums, throw toys, bite or stamp when they are frustrated. Although embarrassing and irritating, when dealt with calmly by using effective discipline techniques most children grow out of it. Time Out is often over used by parents who have not thought up other discipline strategies.

Be Consistent it is vital that your child knows that you always follow through.

Children don’t like being ignored so if your child is behaviour is petty ignore him or her. For difficult behaviour that cannot be ignored, and for children who regularly disobey their parents Time Out can be useful if used correctly. The purpose of time out is to calm your child down and interrupt difficult behaviour. If a child is hysterical Time Out may not be the best solution. Research shows that Time Out is most effective for children three to six years of age. Time Out is inappropriate for children under two.

Time out is only effective when:

· The adult remains calm
· The child understands in advance about Time Out
· It is viewed as a calming measure
· It is not over used

To use Time out as an effective parenting technique I suggest the following guidelines. Children must be told clearly which behaviours lead to Time Out. Parent cannot change the rules on a whim or when they are angry. For example if the rules are Time Out is used for biting, hitting and throwing things you cannot decide to send your child to Time out for refusing to eat her carrots at meal time. Remind her that Time Out is a way of helping her to calm down and behave better. Children should be shown where the time out area is in advance.

Choose a safe, quiet boring place. Hallways, bottom step, chair facing a wall or a small rug are all suitable Time Out places. It is always a good idea to have a back up room to send your child if he refuses to stay in the Time Out area. Remember Time Out is not a punishment so don’t use a scary place such as a dark cupboard or cellar.

To be effective Time Out needs to be short about three minutes for a three-year-old, four minutes for a four year old, a minute for each year of a child's life.

When your child has been quiet for about two minutes invite him to come out. If your child refuses to come out don’t cajole or nag simply ignore him, he will join you when he is ready. Ask your child for an apology. It is important at this point to discuss calmly and pleasantly what has happened don’t lecture. Many parents omit the final phase - the discussion. It is in fact the most important part of the using Time Out effectively because during the discussion the child is taught the correct way to behave. Finally give your child a hug to reassure him that you still love him. This is how to use time out as an effective parenting technique.

Copyright 2006 Living Your Best Life

About The Author

Henri Joyce is an experienced teacher and coaches effective parenting and parenting through divorce. She teaches a effective parenting techniques at the University Of Masters. To claim some valuable downloads and newsletters on effective parenting, you can subscribe to her popular newsletter at: http://www.effectiveparenting.co.uk

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Preparing for Baby- Birth Announcements

by: Dawn Rowlett

Pregnancy and birth is such an exciting time, for expectant mothers and fathers, and grandparents too. It is a time in the parents life when everything is about to change forever. Many parents choose to welcome this time with announcing to friends and family of the newest addition to their lives.

Birth announcements are the best way for new parents to share their baby’s arrival. Depending on the couple, the birth announcement can be any type of style. Some choose gender specific announcements if the sex of the baby is known. Others choose to send a more generic baby birth announcement.

The baby birth announcement should reflect the personality of the parents as well. If it is a family just about to start out, the announcement should reflect this. If the family is welcoming another child, this can also be incorporated into the announcement.

The couple may also choose to have a baby shower in anticipation of the new addition. A shower is a great time to get together before the baby’s arrival to provide all the essential gifts for caring for baby. Baby showers can have number of themes. It can be a boy or girl themed baby shower, or can be themed around a favorite animal or story book character. This is a great time to prepare the nursery.

However the parents decide to welcome their new child into the world, it is a very special time. As the family grows, so does the love and care of those closest.

About The Author

This article was written by Dawn Rowlett for www.dependableprinting.com, invitation and paper goods provider for all printing needs. Please visit the site for more information about birth announcements at, http://www.dependableprinting.com/birth-announcements.htm and baby shower invitations at http://www.dependableprinting.com/baby-shower-invitations.htm.

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Help! My Baby Is Crying!

by: Chiamin Lau

“Why does my Baby cry? What can I do?”



Every new mum and dad ask themselves frantically when their newborn cry. Most parents with newborns carry the expectation that being good parents mean having happy babies all the time (Smiling babies is what everyone usually see in all the baby magazines…)

The reality is that babies have to cry.

Remember: Crying is the first form of baby talk. Crying is a normal event in the lives of all babies. When a baby comes out of the womb, the first thing she does is cry.

It is the only way your baby communicates with you from the start. She (let’s assume this is a baby girl) may be hungry ;she may be wet; she may be too warm or too cold; she may be just bored….There are many reasons why babies cry and it will not be long for you to distinguish between the different cries. As you and your baby get to know each other, you will sometimes be able to tell the difference between each kind of crying. You can then try to give her what she needs.

Taking care of your baby when she cries will not spoil her. It will help your baby feel loved and secure. Smile, touch and talk to your baby as often as possible. Do this when you feed her, change her diaper or give her a bath. Your baby will learn that she can rely on you to take care of her.

One of the common causes why babies cry is hunger: sometimes even if it seems you have just fed your baby, she could still be hungry. Whether you are feeding your baby on a fairly regular schedule or according to her desire, you will soon get a good idea what her feeding pattern is like. There are certain times in the day she wants more to eat, this should help you to decide the unusual crying is due to hunger. If she stops crying after another feed, you will know she is trying to tell you that she is hungry. However, sometimes if your baby cries after feeding, it can be due to indigestion. Babies swallow air, and then they suffer from wind, just like anyone else. Do burp your babies regularly to expel swallowed air. There are a few checks you can do to lessen the problem – check the teat hole, too big a teat hole can cause too much air intake while feeding. Also you can try to hold your baby upright as much as possible during burping. This helps to expel swallowed air too.

Fatigue is another common causes why baby cry. When young babies have been awake for unusually long while or they have been over stimulated (being with strangers, by being in a strange place), they can become irritable and tired. They might cry a little earlier or later than the normal nap schedule. Instead of being easier for them to fall asleep after a busy day, it may be even harder. If you try to comfort them with more playing, more talk, it may make matters worse. Some young babies may just have to cry (the crying can be frantic and loud) before they can fall asleep. Therefore, if you know there is more activities ahead in the coming day (traveling or festive season with lots of other people in the house), you may have to try to tailor the sleeping times to suit the day’s activities.

And naturally, if your baby is unwell, she will cry.

Sometimes this is as simple as too much heat or coldness in the room. If she feels too warm or too cold, she becomes restless and she will cry. Babies need to rest comfortably in a room with good ventilation.

If it is sickness like a cold with nasal blocking, your baby will not be able to sleep well and will go on crying till the passage for better breathing is opened.

Or it can be a case of nappy rash when a tight and wet nappy is kept her for a long time. For some babies, rash can also be caused by some allergic reaction to the elastic material of the nappy. When the rash appears it causes soreness and she become sleepless and cry.

Constipated babies with hard stools may cry when they get the urge for stool. Some babies will hesitate to pass stool because of pain. Therefore it is important to ensure your baby has regular bowel movements.

That being said, I think almost all babies will have some fretful moments during the early weeks, though some babies can be excessively fretful. We may not really know are the causes, indigestion or irritability, and though this may not be a serious issue, this is definitely going to create a lot of stress for you! Go ahead and try a few things – a pacifier between feedings, tug your baby snugly in a blanket, and if possible, go for a car ride, it works like magic for fretful babies. You can also try to play some light music. Make soft noises, such as cooing, to let your baby know you are there and you care. Talk to your baby. This helps to calm your baby down.

But sometimes despite all your efforts, your baby might just cry more than others do.

Don’t despair and be too hard on yourself, it is important to give yourself a deserved break. Try to arrange for someone to mind her a few hours, or even a few minutes will do you good. You might be surprised to know some babies can sense the tension in their parents, and in turn they cannot relax themselves too. Therefore it is important for you (and for your spouse and your baby too) to make effort to leave the house for a few hours at least once a week so that you will not get too exhausted or even depressed. Your baby does not need two worried parents to listen to her at the same time.

Remember, do your best to keep a sense of balance (though this may sound like an impossible task ) by not putting 100% of your time on your newborn as ultimately this will help your baby and the rest of your family in the long run.

About The Author

Chiamin Lau

Having a baby and parenting can all bring you to the heights of joy and the depths of despair, let www.99babynames.com walks the walk with you!

chiamin@99babynames.com

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Games to Play at a Baby Shower

by: Jennifer Barnett

Baby showers can be fun times. It may be one of the last times for the mother-to-be to enjoy a relaxing get together with family and friends. Once the baby arrives, things will be hectic. However, it may also be a somewhat awkward time if her family and friends do not know each other well. One of the best ways to break the ice between everyone is by playing a fun shower game! Baby shower games are generally inexpensive and just require a little planning. Here are a few examples of fun games you can play at the next baby shower you host.

Baby Photos

This is a simple game, but it can get everyone in the "baby" mood. Ask the baby shower attendees to bring a picture of themselves as a baby or toddler. Take each picture and post it on a large piece of poster board, assigning each photo a number. When all the guests have arrived, give each one a nametag so everyone knows everyone's name. Then give each guest a piece of paper and let everyone guess who is who in the baby photos. The person who is able to identify the most baby pictures wins!

Baby Songs

Divide the party into two groups. Assign someone in each group to be the recorder and have them think of as many songs with baby in the title. Set a time limit of 5 minutes. Whichever team is able to list the most songs wins. To add more fun, make the losing team sing a song chosen by the winning team from their list.

Bottle Suckers

Some baby showers have men and women both attend, and this game is great for those type of showers. Fill one 4-ounce baby bottle with juice for each attendee. Have them all drink at once, timing them to see who finishes the fastest. It is good fun to see grownups sucking from a baby bottle. You can even trick the father-to-be by giving him a nipple with a small hole, so it takes him longer to drink the bottle.

Pillow Talk

This one is a little risqué, so if there are older relatives or men in the room, you may want to avoid it. However, if it is just the girls, it is super fun. Do not tell the mother-to-be what is going on, just have someone write down what she says when she opens each gift. Once all the gifts are open, have someone read back what she said, explaining that her comments are "what she said on the night the baby was conceived." It makes for some hilarious innuendos!

Baby Food Tasters

This one gets everyone in the mood for the new little addition. Purchase ten jars of baby food - all different varieties. Print out a sheet that lists each flavor and post it somewhere in the room. Cover the bottom of the jars with foil and print a number on each one. All guests should have a plastic spoon, a paper plate, and a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. Pass around each jar of baby food one at a time and have each guest place a small spoonful of the baby food on their plate. Have them taste it to try to guess what food it is. On their sheet of paper, have guests write down the number from the jar and what flavor that they think they are tasting. Sweet potatoes are usually hard to identify, so you might want to get a jar to try to fool everyone. Be sure to have your camera ready for the faces everyone will make when tasting the baby food.

Mom's Waistline

This one is fun if the mother-to-be is not too sensitive about the size of her ever-expanding waistline. Get a roll of ribbon and ask each guest to pull out as much ribbon as she thinks it will take to cover the mother-to-be's waistline. Cut off the ribbon and try it around the mom's waistline. The guess who comes closest to the actual waist circumference wins.

Test Drive

If it is a pretty day and you plan to have the baby shower outside, this is an entertaining game to play. Set up an obstacle course in the yard, put a doll in the stroller and have each guest run the obstacle course. Time each guest, giving them a 5-second penalty for collisions and a disqualification if the doll falls out of the stroller. Whoever completes the course in the fastest time wins.

Many entertaining games can be played at a baby shower. Just be sure to bring the camera to record all the fun for the mother-to-be to enjoy for years to come.

About The Author

Jennifer Barnett is a successful party planner providing valuable tips and advice on planning a baby shower that is inexpensive, fun for the guests with baby shower games, and choosing the perfect baby shower gift. http://www.about-baby-showers.com.

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Father and Baby

by: Yana Mikheeva

Women are greatly interested in the nature of paternal feelings to a baby. Do they appear by themselves or with the time being? What’s the difference between maternal and paternal feelings? How can a woman influence father’s attention to a baby? May be lack of such attention lies in man’s uncertainty in his paternal talents? And in general, how should these paternal feelings peep? Let’s try to study out these questions from the very beginning.

Pregnancy is a man’s affair

The bases of relationship between father and baby are developed during the period when a baby is in mother’s tummy. It’s hard for a woman to bear pregnancy successfully without her man’s support and empathy. However, a woman can face man’s incomprehension of the depth of changes, occuring with her. On the one hand, there’s a stereotype “pregnancy is not a man’s affair” in our society, on the other hand, a man doesn’t feel any signs of pregnancy by himself.

Don’t be despaired. This problem can be solved, probably, a man just doesn’t know about the importance of his “engaging” into pregnancy. Tell him about the importance of man’s attention for your baby’s correct development. Start attending pregnancy preparatory courses together. Fortunately, there’re more and more men now, who strive to engage into their baby’s life long before his birth. A word-combination “pregnant father” doesn’t surprise us already, now it is a reflection of a real situation, meaning that while a woman is bearing a baby, a man “is bearing a woman”. Taking care of her well-being and comfort, he creates the best conditions for his baby development. A “pregnant father” usually presents at the process of childbirth, feeling himself not like a helpless watcher, but as an active participant of the event. Many of them say that this participation in childbirth was the brightest and happiest event in their life.

The language they both understand

The first contact between father and baby is an important event of their relations. It’s desirable, that the contact would happen during the fist days of baby’s life. During this period, baby’s relations with the the world around are being developed instinctively, and father’s figure is very important at that moment. It’s clear, that a young father feels hesitating and confused while the first meeting with a baby. But this can easily be corrected right at this moment. Let father take a baby in his hands, press to his breast, it’s desirable, that this contact would be “skin to skin” one, praise for the efforts a baby took during the birth. This is necessary both for father and new-born baby.

During the first months of baby’s life, “pregnancy” still takes place, just on “outer” level. A baby is still completely dependent on a mother, and a man feels he’s not already so necessary to his baby. However, now a father gets a wonderful opportunity to try on a “tummy” on himself – bear a baby in a “kangaroo”-rucksack. Many men do it with pleasure, being really proud of such a burden and receiving the first lessons of relations with their baby.

Quite often, new-born babies’ fathers just don’t know about their paternal role during this stage of baby’s life. To avoid estrangement between father and baby, tell husband to do exercises with a baby or teach a baby swimming. This is very useful for baby’s development. Explain him, that because of these turns of breast-feeding and home matters, you just cannot find time for this, and a man will gladly take such task. This way he’ll find approach to a baby, begin to feel his necessity and see the result of his efforts – baby’s joy. So, body language will become their language of communication. This is a good gain for years.

Father is the best stimulus

Maternal love is unconditional, however, father’s love should be deserved. This is an important life stimulus for a baby. Growing up, a child begins to need a paternal guidance, authority and approval. The above-mentioned doesn’t mean a father loves his child less, than a mother does. A man just needs to see a decent continuation of himself in his baby. He pays attention on up-bringing in his child the qualities, which will help him coping with problems during life. First of all, this is self-dependence. As for a baby, a special pleasure for him is to demonstrate his achievements to his father, even if these are just his furst steps or scrawling on paper.

However, sometimes a child is just not ready to do what his parents wait from him. So, it’s very important to help a man to correct his expectations to the level of baby’s age possibilities. If you see a baby cannot cope with the meccano his father has just presented him, drop him a slight hint, that one can also build good cities playing with bricks. Paternal love should give a baby a constantly growing sense of hiw own power, not putting out baby’s self-confidence.

Sometimes a woman faces a temptation – to use a child’s wish to please his father in her educational purposes. If you disobey, I’ll complain your father of you. Don’t be in a rush to intimidate a child. Such method can deprive you of child’s respect to you, and it can also deprive your child of initiative. Moreover, it’s not quite necessarily that your child’s behavior, which made you sad, will make a father sad too. For example, what seems to be an obstinacy for you, will be a self-dependence for a man.

We cannot stay at home Growing up, a baby begins learning the world around, and there’s no better guide, than a father, in this trip. Usually, men prefer leading active way of life and spend time outdoor with a child with great pleasure. When I left my 1 y.o. daughter with her father, I was lost in conjectures as for where they would go that time. May be they will go to a husband’s work or at his friend’s place? May be they will visit some modern exhibition or toy shop? And may be they will go cycling? My husband’s imagination was just inexhaustible. Althouth this brought me much worrying, i saw my daugther really likes this trips. And I tried to understand that staying at home playing different quiet games – is not just for them. And it’s better to give both father and child a freedom of choice of the way to spend their time together. Don’t be sad if the routine was broken and your child ate some fast-food instead of home soup. In return, your baby received lots of new impressions, experience of communication with other people, and the main thing – he received a sense of confidence in his father’s defence. Father is like a holiday

Communication with father gives baby a feeling of holiday. And this is not because fathers spend little time with children, how many women like explaining this event sometimes. The matter is that a father represents other pole of human life, than a mother does. If a mother’s image assosiates with house, where a child lives, then a father’s image is more connected with the world out of this house. Father is a world of traveling, world of things, created by man’s hands, world of thought. Maternal love gives a child a sense of safety, paternal one helps him orienting in the world around.

A sense of holiday comes from importance and brightness of the impressions, which a child receives due to his father. Sometimes the commonest things are being discovered from a new, unexplored side, due to a father. A sofa turns to be a plane, a pencil turns to be a screw-driver, and a pan turns to be a drum. Only a man can look with an unconcealed delight while a baby is disassembling a TV control panel or pushing different phone buttons with enthusiasm, being glad at baby’s in-born talent for engineering.

It’s quite difficult for a woman to overcome the fact that sooner or later her child will separate from her. But this is where the sense of growing, self-dependence and spiritual development is. Woman’s wisdom is in not preventing her child from growing up. Respect his necessity to communicate with father and become more and more independent. Maternal and paternal love in combination create ideal conditions for a child’s development. A famous American psychologist wrote: “Mother is a house we are leaving, and father is the one who teaches a child to learn his way to the world”.

About The Author

Yana Mikheeva is the creator of the Baby-Health.Net at http://www.baby-health.net.

Are you going to get pregnant? Visit our friendly resource and read information on pregnancy and parenting, painless childbirth, growth and development of a baby, baby health, safety, signs of pregnancy.

She also has a blog for women at http://www.womanspassions.com/blog/

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How To Teach Your Baby Swimming

by: Yana Mikheeva

Ancient Greeks considered that a man who couldn’t read, count and swim – was illiterate. Your terror has coped with the first two skills already? Has he learned swimming already? Not yet? Then, no matter where you have a vacation this summer: at the warm sea or at the health center with a pool, in a canoe tour or at your mother-in-law’s country place – give your child several lessons of a real literacy.

It’s necessary to learn swimming on deep water, so that your child wouldn’t get used to pull down his legs and stand up on the bottom. While not observing this rule, a child’s period of transfer from shallow water to depth is being delayed: he can already hold on the water and dive, but still is afraid to swim in depth. However, avoid any extreme: don’t throw a child that cannot swim into the water. You can throw one and he’ll get out, and another will start sinking and after you take him out, he’ll never go into the water again. But even the one who gets out receives shock, a trauma. Your child doesn’t need this. So, let’s learn swimming in depth, but holding a pool’s side, berth or father’s hand in the beginning.

Should you use an inflatable rubber buoy or no? It’s better without it, but in inflatable armlets. A buoy relaxes; a child can pull down his legs, thinking that he’s still swimming. Armlets prevent a child from sinking, but make him hold his legs and body aflat on the water. And a child should get used not to pull down his legs.

Foam plastic plates are worse than armlets. When a child learns to hold himself on water gradually, you can proceed to a flexible stick for aqua-aerobics. These sticks are called noodles. Children like them as they are bright and colored, they hold body on water well, they can be bent anyway, clutched under armpits, hold behind the back… , this way arms and legs will be free and it’ll be easy to swim using such stick.

The best time for learning swimming in 6 y.o. A child already understands what do you want from him, his coordination is good enough already, and there’s no fear yet and it can be easily subdued.

Firstly we’ll be swimming on a tummy. Holding a pier, side or father, we’re learning moving legs. Legs are knocking the water, like while swimming the crawl: toes are stretched, turned inside slightly, knees don’t bend almost. Now we’ll show what arms should do. Arms execute circular motions, like in breast-stroke. And you shouldn’t be confused with such different styles, this way children can learn swimming easier.

Train a child to breathe out into the water at once. In the beginning, he can put only his mouth into the water. Eyes and nose are still above the water. He should form a habit – as soon as water touches his mouth – we breathe out into the water. Then we get used to put mouth and nose, then mouth, nose, eyes into the water. We breathe evenly, not too deep: half- breath, half- outward breath. Breathe in, look where we’re swimming, pull down the head, and breathe out into the water. Let a child hold firstly a pier, buoy, parent’s hand. And buy him eyeglasses to protect eyes.

Five - ten lessons – and you can see your child can hold in water confidently wearing armlets, swim on his tummy, breathes out into the water. So, it’s time to turn to his back. It’s easier to swim on back: a child doesn’t have to breathe out in water, he can look around while swimming, and use only his legs to swim… Children like swimming on back, but only after they learn swimming on tummy, as although it’s more difficult to swim on a tummy, it’s still more natural. Observe your child holds head, tummy and legs aflat. Let him imagine he’s lying of a sofa. As soon as he feels such position, he’ll learn swimming on back. A child can relax his arms, but also he may rake up slightly.

Don’t be in a hurry to put off armlets, wait till your child learns holding on water confidently. Let him swimming on a tummy, back, diving, swimming by breast-stroke and the crawl, wearing armlets… Then try to loosen armlets by half. If a baby says: “I cannot swim, I’m sinking”, this means it’s not time to put them off yet. Let him swimming wearing them, or try to putt off one by one slowly.

After 30 lessons while swimming, any child, even the shyest one, will swim independently. Have no doubts!

However, in general, it’s better to join a section, so that to form a good skill. When a child can already swim by overarm, for example, it’ll be difficult for a trainer to teach him again.

About The Author

Yana Mikheeva is the creator of the Baby-Health.Net at http://www.baby-health.net.

Are you going to get pregnant? Visit our friendly resource and read information on pregnancy and parenting, painless childbirth, growth and development of a baby, baby health, safety, signs of pregnancy.

She also has a blog for women at http://www.womanspassions.com/blog/

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Celebrity Baby Names

by: Julie Parker

Celebrities are not like everyday people. They have busy schedules, drive expensive cars, and wear jewelry that others can only dream of owning. Maybe it is because celebrities are so far removed from normal life that they often give their babies unusual names.

Some names are just a little different. John Travolta and Kelly Preston have two beautiful children. Their daughter's name is Ella Bleu. Their son's name is Jett. Jett is different, but anyone who knows anything about John Travolta knows he has a love for flying. Gwyneth Paltrow, pregnant again, came under scrutiny for naming her first child Apple. While it is unusual, it is somewhat cute, like in the "apple of their eye." Chris Martin, her husband, tired of the controversy over the name Apple, has jokingly stated their second child, whether male or female, will be named Banana. Another cute name is Dandelion, the name of Keith Richards' daughter. Julie Roberts recently gave birth to twins - a boy and a girl - and received flack over the names she chose. She received almost as much grief over the choice for her daughter's name, Hazel, as she did the more eccentric choice of Phinnaeus for her son.

Many people speculated what Madonna would name her first child. Lourdes Maria seems a fitting name for child who's mother's name is Madonna, but she often goes by Lola. Her son is named Rocco, which sounds a bit like a cartoon character, but at least it is a tough sounding name. Actor Casey Affleck and fiancé Summer Phoenix recently had a son named Indiana August, which leads one to wonder what state and month their son was conceived in. Toni Braxton has two sons, Denim and Diezel. While both useful products, they make somewhat strange names for children. Rob Marrow decided it would be cute if he named his daughter Tu Simone Ayer, calling her Tu Morrow. Wonder if she will think it is cute 20 years from now? Actor Jason Lee named his son Pilot Inspektor, but magician Penn Jillette may have topped them all. He named his daughter, Moxie Crimefighter, saying "because when she's pulled over for speeding she can say, `But officer, we're on the same side, my middle name is CrimeFighter."'

If you think it is a new trend, think again. Back in 1971, David Bowie and his then wife Angela decided to name their son Duncan Zowie Heywood Jones. He soon became known as Zowie Bowie. Cher named her children Chastity Sun and Elijah Blue.

The Phoenix family is well known for their unusual choice of baby names. Summer Phoenix's siblings are the late actor River Phoenix, actresses Rain and Liberty Phoenix and actor Joaquin Phoenix. Joaquin felt his name was so out of place with his siblings, that when he was four, he decided to change his name to Leaf. By the early 1990's, he had reverted back to using his birth name. Another family infamous for their choices of baby names is the Zappa family. Frank's children are Dweezil, Moon Unit, Ahmed Emuukha Rodan and Diva Muffin. While many people think that Dweezil is his given name, his birth name was originally Ian Donald Calvin Euclid Zappa because the hospital refused to register the name Dweezil. Always called Dweezil, when he was a child, he wanted to make the name official and his parents took him to have it changed legally. Paula Yates, former wife of Sir Bob Geldof and girlfriend of late rocker Michael Hutchence, also had a knack for giving her children unusual names. Among her brood are Fifi Trixibelle, Peaches Honeyblossom Michelle Charlotte Angel Vanessa, Heavenly Hiraani Tigerlily, and Little Pixie.

Some celebrity baby names make sense if you know the story behind them. Eurythmic's Dave Stewart named his son Django after jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. Stevie Wonder named his son Mandla Kadjaly Carl Stevland, however Mandla means "powerful" in Zulu and Kadjaly means "born from God" in Swahili. Helen Hunt just gave birth to a baby girl she named Makena'lei Gordon. The name Makena'lei is from a friend's dream and means "many flowers of heaven." Gordon, an unlikely girl's name, was to honor of Helen's father, television director Gordon Hunt. Nicolas Cage just named his new baby boy Kal-el. Because Nicolas took his stage name of Cage from comic book character Luke Cage, he decided to name his son Kal-el after one of his favorite comic book heroes. Kal-el is Superman's kryptonian name.

So, do the children like these unconventional names given them by their parents? In some cases, they do. The Phoenix's seem to love their nature-inspired names and the Zappa children seem to have had no ill effects from their eccentric names. However, some children tire of the peculiar names quickly. Zowie Bowie had had enough of his moniker by the time he was 12 and asked to be referred to as "Joey." Although Dandelion Richards does not seem too bad, she has since started referring to herself as Angela. Recently, Peaches Honeyblossom Michelle Charlotte Angel Vanessa Geldof has been the most outspoken about the odd choice her parents made in naming her. She has been quoted as saying, "I hate ridiculous names. My weird name has haunted me all my life."

While having an unusual name might be difficult for any child, the celebrity of a child's parents may enhance it even further. Thankfully, celebrity children who decide they don't like their given names can switch to a nickname or even eventually have their names legally changed.

About The Author

Julie Parker is a successful writer and publisher providing valuable tips and advice on finding the top baby names, unusual baby names, and baby name meanings. http://www.about-baby-showers.com.

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Baby Announcements Guide-Make Some Stylish Baby Announcements

by: Anuj Sharma

Baby announcements or birth announcements generally refer to cards that are sent out to the family and friends immediately after the birth of a baby. These cards usually announce information like the name of parents, list of siblings, baby’s name; date of birth, time, weight and length. Baby announcement is an easy way to share family’s happiness or joy with other friends and relatives.

These are normally designed in blue to represent a boy and pink for a girl. You can also include a photograph of your baby along with baby announcements. Choice of birth announcements depends on the nature and features of baby. These are very special for you as well as the receiver because it shows your attachment to them. You can easily represent your family by selecting a special card for someone very special.

Baby announcements can be of different styles such as traditional, classic or contemporary. Some people prefer customized baby announcements. You can also add some messages or notes like God have blessed us with a son/daughter or we’re proud to announce the birth of a child. Parents described their child as an angle of love, miracle, gift or moon among stars.

Sometimes parents use their own creative skill to make baby announcements. They buy empty borders or frames and insert a beautiful picture of newborn with a special note. They can also add some images of bows, lace, baby pinks or blues, booties and bonnets to make a wonderful baby announcement.

About The Author

Anuj Sharma owns a website on Baby Announcements http://www.onlinebabyannouncements.info/ . Website provides information about baby announcements, newborn baby announcements, online birth announcements and custom baby announcements. You can also visit his site http://www.123babyannouncements.com/.

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What If a Baby Cries

by: Joy Cagil

I just saw a book where the author (an MD) claims that a colicky baby cries, not because he is in pain, but because he has a message to tell or his crying is leading to his speech development. That may be the case in some instances, but considering our experiences with our oldest son, 36 years ago, I couldn't disagree more.

Our son's crying spells began when he was about 20 days old. No, he wasn't allergic to formula; he was breastfed. He wasn't sick at all; he didn't even catch a cold until after he was a year old. He never developed a diaper rash either, until we took him on a trip when he was nine and a half months old.

After coming home from the hospital, our son put on weight regularly and normally; he also began sleeping through the night when he was a month old. Yet, he cried, writhing in pain throughout the day and especially in the evening around 5 or 6 PM when his father returned home from work.

Every day and evening, as he screamed, he pulled his knees up; his stomach and belly got hard and swollen; and he passed gas, non-stop. Now, can anyone do that if he is not in pain?

His pediatrician shrugged the whole thing off. "Since it is your first child, that's normal," he said. Did that mean we were nervous parents? I don't think so. I was in my late twenties and my husband in his thirties. We considered ourselves mature adults on the conservative side. Still our baby cried uncontrollably, throughout the day, and even more vehemently, in the evening.

It is true that I could never leave a crying baby alone. "Let him be. Leave him in his crib; close the door and go about your business," was the norm in those days. If I ever tried that advice, I probably didn't last more than fifteen minutes. So our first child ended up getting carried around the house throughout the day by me, and in the evenings, by his father. To this day, because of our son's colic, I am grateful to Swanson's TV dinners.

To be on the fair side, our baby gave us a little break if we took him on a car ride or rocked him tirelessly. By the time his fourth month was about over, colic decided to leave our house.

As to the concept of colic becoming an indication of speech development, that is false, too, at least in my experience. Our younger son talked earlier than his older brother and he was more verbal, too; and he never had colic.

Nowadays, effective or not, there are so many therapies against colic: herbal remedies and teas containing chamomile, vervain, licorice, fennel, lemon balm, cardamom, angelica, peppermint, and yarrow; dimethicone as regular medicine; antispasmodic and sedating drugs dicyclomine and dicycloverine, although with probable and serious side effects; chiropractic spinal manipulation; and yes, an electronic cry analyzer.

It is a fact that all babies cry. They must, because crying is their way of communicating with us. They tell us of their needs with their crying. A crying baby may be telling us he is hungry, tired, cold, too warm, and uncomfortable in tight clothes or dirty diapers, or he needs to be held, loved, and consoled.

A crying baby who is sick has a different tone to his voice. He usually sounds high-pitched and frightened. When a baby cries like that, make sure you call the doctor or take him to the hospital. That baby might be telling you that his health needs immediate attention.

If you have a colicky baby, never lose your patience. Never, ever, shake a baby or any young child. Better yet, call a hotline, his grandparents, your friends, your next door neighbor, anybody you can reach who can give you some comfort.

If your newborn baby is having a crying spell, wrap him up in a bundle and see if he quiets down. Some babies are consoled when they are wrapped.

If that doesn't work, let him suck on a pacifier.

Put on some soft music or turn on an appliance with a buzzing sound.

While you are trying to soothe and reassure the baby, keep talking to him. It is remarkable how much comfort a baby can found in just hearing your voice.

Give him extra cuddling.

Change his position if you are holding him or if he is lying on his bed.

Entertain him. At about three months, a baby starts being aware of his environment. At this stage, mobiles, soft toys, and even television may come in handy.

Having the baby on some kind of a schedule that is not too tight or too loose and is comfortable to both the baby and the parents is a good idea, also. While most babies determine their own routine and do better finding their own way, others are happier on a stricter feeding schedule.

While you bathe, feed, clothe, and comfort your baby, make sure you take care of yourself and get enough sleep, too. A parent who doesn't get enough sleep or cannot find personal time for herself (himself) will suffer more and so will her (his) baby eventually.

May you all enjoy happy, healthy, and contented babies.

About The Author

This article has been submitted by Joy Cagil in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names.

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Designer Crib Bedding For Your Baby

by: Susan Green

Having a baby is one of the most natural and exciting things to happen to a family. Many people feel that their family is not complete without children of their own and the nine months from conception to birth is filled with enthusiasm and preparation.

One of the most exciting parts of the process for parents-to-be is the creation of a nursery for the newcomer. Babies obviously require a large amount of specific equipment, such as changing mats, clothes, toys and a crib. Preparing the nursery so that everything they need is available when they come home makes the impending arrival more real for the household. Choosing the color, style and overall look of the room depends largely on the personalities of the parents but many opt for designer items to ensure that they are of high standards and do the job they were made to do well, whilst looking aesthetically pleasing.

One area which can really alter the overall look of the room is the crib itself and the bedding within. For the first few years, the crib will be the dominating piece of furniture in the room and every visitor to the home will at some point peer in at the newborn as they sleep in their crib. The baby will spend a large proportion of its time sleeping for the first weeks and months so it makes sense to ensure that this is one area which the parents are particularly happy with.

Celebrities are renowned for using the best products and manufacturers for their babies. This endorsement, whether paid or not, brings certain products to the forefront of the public’s mind and many parents feel that if it is good enough for a film star, it is good enough for them and their baby. Finding the products to buy can be a different matter though, particularly if you do not live in or near to a large city. However, the Internet has made it much easier to find whatever product you are looking for and to have it shipped directly to your home.

One website I have found which specialises in designer baby-wear, furniture and bedding is found at www.babyscribsupply.com This site allows you to shop by designer if you wish so that you can easily locate a specific product if you know who made it. Alternatively, you can browse the site by product. Everything you will need for your baby and nursery is available to buy in one place and every product has a photograph to allow you to see it before you buy it.

The crib bedding section has every color and pattern imaginable for your baby. You can view the products by gender of the baby or you all at a time. As I mentioned earlier, this is possibly one of the most important purchases you will make for your child’s nursery as it will be seen and used with such regularity. Once you have selected the bedding you require you can then shop by the designer if you wish to decorate the whole room with the same label, or you can choose additional products which will complement the look you have chosen.

About The Author

Susan Green regularly contributes to Baby's Crib Supply http://www.babyscribsupply.com where more information about baby cribs, bedding and nursery information is freely available.



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Have a Pink Kit baby

by: Winter Green

You’re pregnant and sometime within the next 9 months, you will give birth to your child. Take a moment to think about your own life: your beliefs, religion, choices available about childbirth or lack of, health issues, what you’ve been taught about childbirth from your mother or father, your previous birth experiences and what you want for this birth. Then take a moment to look around you at your neighbors, work colleagues, or other women you pass on the street. What do you share in common with ALL these other women? You might find some similarities, yet you will probably focus more on the differences that exist.

Can you blink or cough? Can ALL those other women do the same? That’s what we have in common…our human and universally shared human body. Using that ‘of course’ as a basis of thinking, know that there is a way for any woman to prepare for childbirth that teaches us about our birthing body. It’s such common knowledge that you’ll wonder way it you didn’t know it before. That’s why Common Knowledge Trust has produced The Pink Kit Method for birthing better™ resources. The main resource is The Pink Kit: Essential Preparations for your birthing body (multi-media: video, audio cassette and book) and The Companion Guide.

Now, let’s take another leap of thought. Think about your choices about childbirth, what assessments, monitoring and procedures your birth professional is speaking with you about, your concerns about ‘pain’, possible pain relief options and even possibly having a non-labouring birth, or your health issues that might affect your birth choices and think about your Birth Plan. When you learn the skills in The Pink Kit, you can take those skills with you into whatever birth you find yourself having. Regardless of where or with whom you will birth or whatever is happening to you or around you, you will have another contraction. If you are having a non-labouring c/s then you can use these resources to prepare for the birth of your child anyway , thus giving you a deep sense of connection to the process of childbirth. If you are going to labour and give birth, you can learn the truly universal skills, which work. You’ll still be breathing, so why not learn the Directed Breathing (the most natural way to breathe through contractions, particularly when they are intense). You’ll still either be sitting, lying, standing or walking, so why not learn how to relax inside The Pelvic Clock as a focus to keep relaxed inside and how to Map Your Pelvis so you can find the positions that really keep you open, even if you have to stay in bed… or choose to.

Taking another leap of thought, consider your partner. As different women and men are, they still share the same human body. Using The Pink Kit Method for birthing better™, your partner can experience the same body knowledge. This helps fathers become the exceptional coaches at birth, you want them to be. At it’s simplest, birth is moving an object (baby) through a tube (pelvis), opening a diaphragm (cervix) and opening an aperture (vagina). You are the container and you can use your mind to prepare those areas, keep them relaxed and mentally accept the sensations by using these skills; then your baby will come our of your body into your arms more easily. Fathers love the information. It’s practical and works.

Taking yet another leap and think about labour. It’s like driving on an unknown journey. The journey is unknown, even if you’ve taken it before… this one will be different, however, if you’ve already learned to drive the car, the journey will be easier. The Pink Kit is your driving manual. You can learn how to drive your vehicle (your body) through this unknown journey. Your partner can help you throughout as he learns the skills to keep you focused, relaxed and able to meet the challenge of the experience. He can help you reduce back labour with The Sacral Manoeuvre or relax tension in your hips and create space for your baby with The Hip Lift. He can help you prepare your ‘aperture’ so that it opens easily and heals rapidly. Many women who do a lot of the Internal Work, will tell you that they ‘didn’t feel like I had a baby’ several hours after birth.

The hardest leap of thought is to consider all the issues around ‘interventions’ and ‘natural’ birth. Consider how the thousands upon thousands of couples who consider themselves Pink Kitters have experienced these complex issues and often part of an individual Birth Plan. Most couples who used this information have laboured in hospital where there would be heaps of assessments, monitoring and procedures. Personally, they will negotiate about their ‘choices’ with their birth professional or not. Health issues and the unexpected may change the Birth Plan. Regardless, couples prepared and then just ‘did the work’ in whatever situation they found themselves.

Because the woman used her skills to 'manage' her labour, staff would compliment her on how well she was ‘coping’ or ‘doing’. Because the father also had the coaching skills to really help (speaking the common language and using the common touch) staff would tell him that they wished more fathers would be such great coaches. After the birth, the couple was complimented on 'what a good birth' they had and 'how lucky' they were. Couples tried to explain that their good birth was due to the preparations and skills they brought to the experience. Yet, staff often would tell them that really nothing they had done could have made a difference, because ‘you never know what labour is going to be like'. These couples ALWAYS felt that they had had a natural birth. They realised that assessments, monitoring and procedures were being done; however, it was the way they had self managed and worked together that left them elated. To them, they had had a natural birth even around all the ‘interventions.’

Become a Pink Kitter and reap the benefits for yourself and family. You will pass these skills on to your children. More importantly, all couples speak about the continued benefits: closer partner and parenting relationships. You and your partner can go into labour and birth feeling confident and capable. ‘Do the work’ and use the skills and always remember The Little Engine That Could….’I think I can, I think I can…I KNEW I could!’

It’s an ideal gift to give at a baby shower. Ask your mother to get it for you. She’ll tell you that she wished she had had this information when she had you and there are work-at-home opportunities by wholesaling the Kit in your local area.

About The Author

Winter Green is trustee and founder of the Common Knowledge Trust based in Nelson, New Zealand. The trust promotes the Pink Kit Method which gives private childbirth lessons for use in ones own home. For more information visit the Birthing Better website.



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Teething Baby, An Irritating Milestone

by: Debra Slater

Even though teething a milestone for your little one, it is several months of irritation for mother and baby. This fun begins around 3 or 4 months of age and continues up to 3 years. Below is approximate times of when new teeth may start to come in.

6 to 7 months; Incisors; Two central bottom & Two central top teeth

7 to 9 months; Two more incisors; Top & bottom

10 to 14 months; First molars; Double teeth for chewing

15 to 18 months; Canines; The pointed teeth or “fangs”

2 to 3 years; Second molars; Second set of double teeth at the back

By their third birthday, most children should have all twenty of their primary teeth.

Teething is relatively painless for babies, but it is uncomfortable. Many parents think their baby has teething symptoms, when in fact it may be something else. Here are the most common symptoms:

* * Irritability

* * Restlessness/difficulty sleeping

* * Increased saliva

* * Drooling

* * Desire to chew on everything within grasping distance

Other signs that can be seen in the baby’s mouth include swollen, tender gums where a new tooth is coming through.

If your baby is teething and it is really bothering them, there are things you can do to ease the irritation. One thing I used with my son was a teether. There are many different types of teethers. I used one that resembled a set of keys; it was his favorite. Another type that he enjoyed was a chilled, not frozen, teething ring.

When you see that first tooth, all the irritation will be well worth it.

About The Author

Debra Slater: With over 25 years of experience in the baby related industry, http://HappyMothers.com & http://MommysLittleBaby.com has the most experienced and knowledgeable sales staff. We have provided and continue to provide exceptional service to Mothers, Fathers, Grandmothers, Grandfathers and all family and friends.



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Be Prepared for Your New Baby: A Checklist for New Parents to Be

by: Amanda Pinkston

If you are expecting a new baby you have probably already been preparing for your little one for quite some time. Packing for the hospital and preparing your home for the new baby are the most important things you can do to make your transition from the hospital back home smoother. Here are some preparation tips that I found the most helpful before the birth of my daughter.

Pack for the Hospital

Use the checklist below as a guide when you pack your bags for your hospital stay. A checklist will ensure that you do not forget to bring something important to the hospital. Before you pack, check with the hospital to see what is provided to you to avoid over packing.

For Mommy:

( ) Socks

( ) Pajamas (a gown should be provided to you in the hospital but your own pajamas will make you feel more at home and comfortable)

( ) Maternity clothes to go home in (your tummy doesn't magically disappear after delivery-maternity clothes will be the most comfortable to travel home in)

( ) Books/magazines

( ) Contacts/Glasses

( ) Contact case/cleaning solution

( ) Toothbrush/toothpaste

( ) Shampoo/conditioner

( ) Hair brush and styling products

( ) Make up (for those after delivery visitors)

( ) Labor supplies (massage items, aromatherapy candles-whatever you plan on using to make your delivery easier)

( ) Purse/wallet

( ) Sanitary pads

( ) Birthing Plan

( ) Any hospital paperwork required for check in

( ) Other_______________________________________________

For Daddy:

( ) Games

( ) Books/Magazines

( ) Camera/Camcorder

( ) Change of clothes

( ) Pajamas

( ) Cell phone (or change for pay phones)

( ) Wallet

( ) Other_______________________________________________

For Baby:

Typically the hospital will provide you with diapers, wipes, clothes for the new baby. However, it is always a good idea to be over prepared rather than under prepared. Here are some suggestions:

( ) Coming home outfit

( ) Diapers (usually newborns will comfortably fit into preemie diapers for the first week or two after birth)

( ) Wipes

( ) Blankets (thickness should depend on the weather)

( ) Hand sanitizer (for visitors)

Also, be sure to have the baby's car seat secured in your vehicle. The hospital will not release you and your baby unless you have a car seat properly installed.

Prepare Meals in Advance

The best advice I received prior to having my daughter was to make sure that I had plenty of easy meals ready to go once we brought her home from the hospital. The easiest way to stock up on ready to serve meals is to over cook when preparing dinner before the baby is born and then freeze the leftovers.

If you can find the time, spend a whole day cooking meals to freeze. If you would like recipes that you can use, check out free printable recipes at The Craft Cafe (www.recipes.thecraftcafe.com). There you will find recipes for lasagna, meatballs, mushroom barley soup and many other recipes that are perfect to freeze for a later time.

Clean/Prep Nursery

To ensure that your baby has a clean and healthy environment. Take a weekend to thoroughly clean your house. Be sure to dust furniture, sanitize toys, clean the bathroom, vacuum, organize and perform any other cleaning that you will not have time to do once the baby arrives.

About The Author

Amanda Pinkston is a writer for The Craft Cafe (www.thecraftcafe.com). Find card making, scrapbooking, free printable projects, recipes and more at The Craft Cafe (www.thecraftcafe.com).

mrspinky031781@yahoo.com



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Solving Baby Sleep Problems - The Ferber Method

by: Debbie Walker

Nothing can prepare new parents for the mind numbing weariness that comes with lack of sleep. A new baby may be tiny but the havoc they wreak to your sleep is huge. It can take work to establish good sleeping habits. One of the hardest things for your baby is to learn to fall asleep on his own.

I firmly believe that parents need to reclaim their evenings. Babies and young children need to go to bed at a reasonable hour so that you can enjoy some adult time (Even if that just means crashing out on the sofa in front of the TV) What you don't want is to be running up and downstairs all evening in response to the baby monitor!

Baby is used to falling asleep with a parent. It may be tempting to rock that crying baby to sleep - it may seem quicker but in the long run you are not helping your baby to learn that sleep is something he needs to do alone.

If you establish a bedtime routine which you stick to every night and after several months your baby will still not fall asleep you might like to try the Ferber Method. Dr. Richard Ferber sets out a schedule that will gradually encourage your baby to sleep without you. This will include getting off to sleep in the first place but will have a knock on effect if baby wakes up during the night.

If you decide to try the Ferber Method choose a time when you can afford to loose some sleep. It will take a couple of weeks of hard work but the rewards will be long term and permanent.

Essentially the Ferber method encourages you to gradually wean your baby from falling asleep with a parent. It does involve listening to your baby cry - so steal yourself to this.

The first night you put your baby to bed as usual (a calm bedtime routine is essential) Baby should be sleepy but still awake when you put him down (You want him to fall asleep alone - not in your arms)

Leave the room. When baby starts to cry (as he inevitably will) sit it out for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes return to the bedroom and soothe baby. You must not pick him up or rock him - just a gentle stroke or pat so that he knows you are close by. Leave the room again and this time wait 10 minutes before you return. Again sooth but do not pick up baby. Leave again and this time wait 15 minutes.

Make 15 minutes the maximum wait time for the rest of the night. Return to the bedroom - sooth and leave. During one of the 15 minutes he will fall asleep.

On the second night start with a ten minute wait and work up to 20 minutes.

On the third night start with a 15 minutes and work up to 25

Each night increase the times by 5 minutes.

These time intervals are not cast in stone - make them smaller if you wish but it's really important that you don't cave. It can seem heartbreaking to listen to your baby cry. But you are close by, it's a plan not indifference.

I used the Ferber method with my daughter, when she was a toddler. We had not experienced sleep problems when she was a baby in a crib. The difficulties started when we transferred her to a bed. The night time "pantomime" got more and more elaborate as she extended the time I was in the room with her. She used every trick in the book to get me back into her bedroom and to delay the time when she settled down to sleep.

By the time I came across Dr Ferber's book I was desperate. It was taking longer and longer every night to get her off to sleep but I wasn't prepared for how hard it would be to leave my daughter to cry. In fact most times I was sitting on the stairs crying too. My husband encouraged me stick at it and I'm glad that we did. It really did just take a couple of weeks to set up a pattern that lasted all through her childhood. I found that I could spend some enjoyable bedtimes, reading stories etc, confident that when I said "goodnight" she would snuggle down and go to sleep without any fuss

About The Author

Debbie Walker

Lack of sleep is the one of the hardest aspect of new parenthood. Getting baby off to sleep can be a major headache. The primary goal is to get baby off to sleep quickly - and to sleep safely through the night. Debbie Walker runs http://www.sleep-baby-sleep.com an advice website. You will find articles to help with all aspects of baby sleep like http://www.sleep-baby-sleep.com/co-sleeping-transition.htm. There are also several carefully chose products such as the http://www.sleep-baby-sleep.com/baby-sleep-pillow.htm.



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Ideas For Decorating Your New Baby Nursery

by: James McDonald

When decorating for a new nursery, there are many ideas that can be used. Whether the new baby is a first-born, adopted, or one of many others, all children will take pleasure in a nursery room with a theme.

Usually many parents spend hours trying to decide on the new theme for the baby's nursery. They would like to be as original as possible in order to help stimulate their little boy or girl's mind. Common baby nursery plans are cartoon characters, sports themes, and animals.

Cartoon Characters As A Nursery Decorating Idea

Any nursery decorator would tell you the best way to plan your decorating is to purchase the bedding in the theme you are looking for. So for a parent wanting to decorate using nursery ideas with cartoon characters, choosing a nice baby blanket, sheet set, or quilt in a cartoon character theme would decrease the time needed to decorate baby bedrooms.

A Sports Theme As A Nursery Decorating Idea

Some parents choose to decorate their little boy's or girl's room with a sports theme. The sports theme for baby nursery plans can be anything such as gymnastics, baseball, basketball, or hockey. This would include finding the necessary baby bedding to focus your decorating around, and then using other accessories such as wallpaper borders, and decorative lampshades or throw rugs to complete your baby nursery plans.

An Animal Theme As A As A Nursery Decorating Idea

Other baby nursery plans include animals. Many children love animals, especially baby animals. There are lovely bed linens, rugs, and wallpaper that can be purchased in a zoo theme or based on any animal that you can imagine, or that your child might be interested in seeing.

Based on these ideas, your child is sure to love any of these baby nursery plans, or any other idea that you can creatively come up with. Take the time to plan it out as your baby will be spending alot of time there especially when they are young. Help them associate this room with positive experiences.

About The Author

James McDonald writes for www.findbabyproducts.com where you can find many types of baby products for your little one. We have furniture, bedding, feeding, and much more plus we have informative articles to help any new parent.



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Baby Wipes Or Chemical Wipes?

by: Jennifer A. Casey

If you calculate the number of diaper changes you perform in a day, by the number of baby wipes you use at each change, the result is an estimated 4400 wipes per year. Not only can wipes be wasteful to the environment, they also often contain such chemicals as fragrance, chlorine, synthetic preservatives, and dioxin.

Wipes are used, not only for diaper changing, but also to wipe hands and faces, to clean off pacifiers that have fallen onto the street, and to wipe down dirty shopping cart handles. They are terribly convenient, and are an essential in every well-packed diaper bag. The concern is not if you have packed enough for your outing, but what is lurking inside that solution that keeps them nice and moist.

That delicious, fresh baby smell, also known as frangrance or perfume, is found in many brands of baby wipes and is a potential concern. Synthetic fragrances have shown such effects, on baby, as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and headaches. If baby is suffering from eczema, synthetic ingredients can also irritate the issue.

Dioxins, often found in meat and dairy products, are also the by-product of the chlorine bleaching process. The effects of dioxin have shown, by the Environmental Protection Agency, that it is carcinogenic. If you are using baby wipes that are bleached with chlorine, be wary of this toxic chemical.

To avoid having to flush or dispose of wipes, and to eliminate the use of chemicals on your baby’s precious skin, make your own washable wipes! They still fit perfectly into your mini wipes case in your diaper bag, and they can be soaked and washed after use, with your cotton diapers, in vinegar and water. Just as convenient as disposable wipes, but friendlier to the environment and baby’s skin!

Recipe for 100% natural baby wipes solution:

In a measuring cup, combine

· ¼ C warm, purified water

· ¼ C Aloe Vera Juice

· 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar

· 1 teaspoon grated, unscented soap

Stir until dissolved. Add:

· 2 Tablespoons Carrier Oil (Calendula, Jojoba, Apricot Kernel)

· Optional: Add up to 4 drops of either or both of Lavender Essential Oil, Tea Tree Essential oil.

Pour mixture over 15-20 baby facecloths, or 10”x10” cotton flannel squares, in a square plastic baby wipes dispenser. Once container is empty, clean well and repeat!

Launder your used cloths with cotton diapers, or soak separately in a container of water, vinegar and baking soda mixture before washing.

Copyright 2006, Jennifer A. Casey

Author, ‘HOMEMADE BABY: The Guide To Making Your Own Baby Care Essentials. The Natural Way!’

www.munchskins.com/book.htm

About The Author

Jennifer A. Casey has a passion for organic living. She is both the creator of her own line of natural baby care, called MUNCHSKINS Skin Care, as well as the author of her own recipe book for baby's daily essentials titled, 'HOMEMADE BABY: The Guide To Making Your Own Baby Care Essentials. The Natural Way!'.

She resides in Vancouver, Canada with her husband and two children. http://www.munchskins.com/book.htm

homemadebabybook@munchskins.com

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How To Treat Baby's Diarrhea

by: Adwina Jackson

If you see these signs in your baby, you must treat her by giving as much fluid as you can. You can give either breast milk or formula (if your baby is not more than 6 months old). Water and soup are other alternatives for older babies.

There are also special fluids designed to replace water and salts lost during your baby's diarrhea. According to American Academy of Pediatrics, these fluids are very useful in home management of mild to fairly severe illnesses.

However, you should not prepare these fluids by yourself because you may make bad liquids for you baby, which of course can worsen her condition. You can easily get the fluids in nearby pharmacies.

When should you take your baby to a doctor?

You should take her see a doctor if these conditions below occur:

- You find blood in your baby's feces. This can be a sign of bacterial infection.

- There are changes in your baby's behavior, like she cries most of the time and you can't calm her down or she refuses to eat and drink.

- Your baby has a high fever, which is above 39°C.

Nonetheless, no need to be worried if:

- your baby acts normally as usual.

- your baby has no fever.

- your baby still wants to eat.

Generally, diarrhea recovers by itself without medicine. You just need to be patient and not to worry too much. Always observe your baby's condition and examine whether her feces get solid or not and whether there's blood in them.

The key is to keep give her as much fluid as you can. If she refuses, try to give the drink in small amount but do it frequently.

About The Author

Adwina Jackson is a wife and mother of a young boy. She's also the editor of Inspiring Parenting, an online source of valuable parenting information. Please visit http://www.InspiringParenting.com for helpful and free parenting info. Observe your children's health, growth and development by clicking the website.



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Your Newborn Baby: Are You Truly Prepared?

by: Tim Fisher

As parents-to-be, we tend to prepare for the arrival of our newborn in the usual ways. We decorate the nursery, attend child birthing classes, buy every baby-related accessory known to man, and even research baby names. However, we often overlook the single most important aspect of preparation. How prepared are you in the event of an infant emergency? Can you administer CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, or any other basic life support your child may need prior to the emergency crew's arrival?

THE FIRST FOUR MINUTES

Most city fire departments set emergency response time standards. These standards help ensure the quickest response possible to any emergency. The goal is to have the emergency crew en route to the emergency within sixty seconds of receiving the alarm. Once responding, the rescuers strive to arrive on scene within three to five minutes. Due to many factors, the response time standards will vary slightly from city to city. The very best we can expect is that help will arrive in four minutes. In more rural areas where they depend on volunteers or where stations are spaced further apart, the response times will be significantly longer. It is not unreasonable to have a response time of fifteen minutes or longer in these rural areas.

So why are the first four minutes so critical? It is common knowledge within the medical profession that brain cells begin to die after only four to six minutes without oxygen. Unfortunately, this brain damage is irreversible. Studies have also shown that the survival rate is greatest when CPR is administered within the first four minutes. This is your time to take action.

EARLY INTERVENTION

According to the American Heart Association, CPR can double a victims chance of survival by maintaining vital blood flow to the heart and brain until more advanced care can be administered. You, as a parent, should have the knowledge and ability to perform these simple life support procedures until help arrives. By acting quickly but calmly, you can play a vital role in the survival of your infant.

Preventing infant accidents and emergencies is still the best way to ensure your newborn's safety. Be prepared for the unforeseen emergencies and accidents as well. Contact the American Heart Association, Red Cross, your local fire department, or community college for CPR and first aid classes. Encourage anyone who will be spending time with your newborn to attend the classes with you. Remember, the first four minutes are yours.

About The Author

Tim Fisher is a retired professional California firefighter and writes for http://www.mybirthannouncements.com which specializes in invitations for baptism and christening and products with baby room themes.

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Celebrity Baby Names

It seems that the days of naming your son or daughter with your own name and adding a second, third or a fourth sign in roman numerals at the end are fading away. This seems to be especially the case with celebrities. The more unique, the better! As to whether celebrities are simply a little loopy, or whether they simply like the attention that a unique baby name will bring, we do not know. What we do know is that the names just keep getting crazier and crazier. Below is a list of some of our favorite celebrity baby names over the years.

Banjo - Patrick & Rachel Griffiths

This choice of name was based on the main character from 'The man who came to dinner'.

Apple - Gwyneth Paltrow & Chris Martin

We don't even think the parents understand why they chose this name!

Heavenly Hiraani Tiger Lilly, Fifi Trixibelle, Peaches Honeyblossom - Paula Yates

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Choosing A Baby Name

Take Your Time

The worst thing you could do when choosing a baby name is to rush into it. Settling for second best may affect you and your child for a lifetime! Don't commit yourself to the first name that you fancy. Keep searching until you find a name that you are 110% happy with. And don't forget that you don't need to have a name for your baby before birth. Some parents have been known to wait 2 or 3 weeks before deciding on that perfect name.

What Does it Mean?

Some parents don't really care for the meaning of their baby's name, where as others base their decision soley around it. But, in our opinion a quick check couldn't hurt. Do you really want your big strong boy to have a name that means "pretty flower"? If you have a meaning in mind, but don't know what names contain that meaning, visit www.namestobe.com

Spelling

Try to make sure you don't choose a name that ends with the same letter that your last name begins with. This can sometimes make pronounciation a challenge. There are some exceptions to this rule, but in general it is best to keep it in mind when choosing a baby name. Try it for yourself and you'll see what we mean. Letters like "l" and "s" are especially bad.

Say it Out Loud

Instead of refering to your unborn baby as he or she or "the baby", try using one of the names that you like for a week or so. Saying it out loud and using it in common sentences will give you a better idea of how much you really like the name. Don't forget, some names look great when written on paper, but sound terrible off the tongue.

About The Author

Article written by Sarah Mitchell from www.namestobe.com

Find thousands of baby names, their meanings, origins and genders at www.namestobe.com

info@namestobe.com

Definetely three of the most 'out there' names in the history of baby names!

Jett - John Travolta & Kelly Preston

Well, John has always loved airplanes, so we'll let them get away with this one.

Zowie - David Bowie

Doesn't seem that bad, until you realise that with the last name it makes "Zowie Bowie".

Rumer Glenn, Tallulah Belle, Scott LaRue - Bruce Willis & Demi Moore

At least there are some normal names mixed in there, but still among our craziest!

Daisey Boo - Jamie Oliver

Typical celebrity, had to chuck in the "Boo" at the end.

Pilot Inspektor - Scott Lee & Beth Riesgrat

This kid is going to have a hard time at school.

Milo - Ricky Lake

This is okay, just so long as she doesn't name her second child "Otis".

Elijah Bob Patricius Guggi Q - Bono

Bono had definetely put some thought into this one!

Prince Michael, Prince Michael II, Paris Michael - Michael Jackson

We think this is just too many Michaels for one house hold.

Dexter, Diane Keaton

Only just acceptable for a boy, but would you believe this is her daughters name?

Moon Unit, Ahmet Emuukha Roden, Dreezil, Diva - Frank Zappa

Once again, among the craziest baby names in history.

Ocean, True, Sonnet - Forest Whitaker

We dont't mind the name Sonnet, but you can make your own mind up on the other two.

Betty Kitten, Honey Kinney, Harvey Kirby - Jane Goldman & Jonathan Ross

We wouldn't name our kids these names, but they do have a nice ring to them.

For more celebrity baby names visit, http://www.namestobe.com/celebritybabynames.php



About The Author

Article written by Sarah Mitchell of NamesToBe.com. Article free for reprint as long as this info box is present and all hyperlinks remain active.

Baby names and meanings at http://www.namestobe.com/

Baby naming tips at http://www.namestobe.com/celebrity-article.html

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Choosing Baby Names for Twins

Choosing a baby name for your new born can be quite a stressful decision. With thousands upon thousands of names at your disposal, you may begin to feel a little over whelmed. Well, for twins, you can double the trouble! This article is aimed at helping soon to be moms and dads of twins to choose those perfect baby names.

Using anagrams for naming twins

One way of choosing baby names for twins is to take one name that you like and rearrange the letters to make another name. A few examples of this are:

Reva & Vera

Ira & Ria

Mary & Myra

If you are a fan of traditional baby names, then your choices are slightly limited with this option. But, if you don't mind bending the rules a little, then you can play around with this idea forever.

Using synonyms for naming twins

Another idea for choosing baby names for twins is synonyms! A synonym is a word (or a baby name in our case) that has a similar or exact meaning of another word. So, you might want your twins to both have names that mean 'flower'. An example of this would be:

Eve & Zoe

Yasmin & Lala

Dahlia & Daisy

Camellia & Heather

All of these names refer to a flower in general or a particular flower, although they are all quite unique from one another. For example, Heather is an English name, whereas Camellia is a Latin name. If you would like to experiment with this idea some more, visit www.namestobe.com. Simply type in a meaning or part of a meaning and a list of names that corespond to that meaning will appear.

Reversing names for twins

Choosing baby names for twins can sometimes be as easy as spelling a name you like, backwards! As you can imagine, this will only work for a small selection of names, but if you have the time to sit down with a pen, paper and some patients then you will eventually find some that you are fond of. An example of this would be:

Aiden & Nadia

Other tips for naming twins

Some other tips for naming twins are to use names beginning with the same letter, use names that rhyme, or even use names that have no connection between them what so ever. Sometimes parents get so wrapped up in trying to choose the perfect names for their twins that they forget the fact they have the option of choosing two names that have no connection at all. Regardless of what option you choose to name your twins, you should take the time to sit down and put some serious thought into your decision. Best of luck to you!

About The Author

This article was written by Sarah Mitchell from www.namestobe.com. Find thousands of baby names, their meanings, origins and genders at www.namestobe.com.

info@namestobe.com

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Unusual Baby Boy Names - Finding Exotic and Unique Baby Names

Unusual baby boy names and finding exotic and unique baby names can be loads of fun! Rather than giving your baby boy a name like Jacob, John or Harry, you would prefer him have one of the more exotic and unique baby names.

There are several ways to find unusual baby boy names. Here are some suggestions:

1. Start with the most popular names being given to baby boys. For parents living in the USA, you can easily find this kind of information by visiting the Social Security Administration's website (click on the link at the bottom of this page to go to the direct link to the SSA baby names search). See which names that are popular are also unusual baby boy names. You can view the most popular names for the past year, boy names given since the year 2000 or by decade in the previous century. It may surprise you how many exotic and unique baby names you can find this way.

2. Look at your own family names and see if using any name combinations create unusual baby names you like. Ask other family members for their suggestions, even invite your friends to give you their opinions. Does a relative have names you like? Do be careful if the names are already used. Ask other family members to be sure your favorite unusual baby names are not given to relatives. It can become confusing in families when two people have the same names.

3. Consider the unusual baby boy names used in the classics. Literary classics are a great source of exotic and unique baby names. Be careful when considering modern names used by this years top male movie stars. Will that popular actor still be in the headlines 3, 5, 10 or more years from now? By using the classics for possible names, you know that these names have withstood the test of time.

4. Visit your local library or bookstore and browse the pregnancy and parenting sections. You will likely find several books in various price ranges that provide you with many unusual baby boy names to consider.

5. Search for exotic and unique baby names online. There are many baby websites with listings and resources for baby names.

Remember, your childs names will be used their entire life, so think how their names will sound and feel once they are grown. Do not let the joy of their infancy cause you to give them a name that they won't be proud of once they are older. Stay away from funny names. Choose his name carefully, a name that will have meaning and significance to you and your child.

Have fun and enjoy viewing and choosing your childs names. Provide them with unusual baby boy names that will add to their success and happiness in life. Take your time and find names you truly love. You will find at some point, there is no doubt about what your new baby boy names will be. When it happens - congratulations! Enjoy and celebrate the moment. You will know it was worth every minute spent looking for unusual baby boy names for that unique and very special person.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

About The Author:

See http://www.yourdreamloghome.com/top-100-baby-name-lists.html and access the Social Security baby names listings. David Buster is VP of InfoSearch Publishing and the webmaster of http://www.yourdreamloghome.com - visit the website for nursery ideas, decorating ideas in kids bedrooms, playroom design ideas, playroom storage ideas and more.

Copyright David Buster - http://www.yourdreamloghome.com

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Tips to Selecting Baby Names

Picking out baby names is one of the first things that a couple can do in planning for their new arrival. The most common way to find the best selection is through a book of baby names or through the annual announcement of the most popular baby names being given to newborns.

When selecting baby names, it is important that the couple choose a name that they both are fond of and will be proud to place on the birth certificate. Many infants are named after one parent or the other and, in some cases, even a grandparent or other family namesake.

Choose a name that fits well with the child's last name. It doesn't matter whether baby names are short or lengthy, but how they sound together will follow the child throughout their life.

When deciding on a middle name, say it to yourself and aloud several times. And, you can even write it down on paper and see how it looks. Either of these exercises will give you a good idea as to how the full name will look and sound.

It's a good idea to select a name that is unique. While there are certain baby names that are very popular for newborns, it is nice to give your child a name that is not so common and may set them apart from the rest. There are a large number of uncommon, but beautiful, baby names that are ideal for infants.

When choosing baby names, it's nice to select one that sounds classy and elegant. One of the best ways of accomplishing this is to read the meaning behind each name. Did you know that all baby names have a meaning behind them? Many parents not only look at the name itself, but of it's meaning and definition to help guide them toward a decision. If a child was unplanned, but a nice surprise nonetheless, perhaps a name that is inspired by luck or good fortune would be one befitting of your little one. If your new child is one that was hoped for over a long period of time, then a name that is inspired by hope and a blessing would be the perfect of all baby names.

The internet is a wealth of information where baby names are concerned. From resources to purchasing books and CD reference guides to free listings of baby names, the world wide web is the best place to find every resource imaginable.

About The Author:

Learn more about baby names visit our website at http://www.baby-names-guide.info for baby names articles and reviews.

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How To Choose Unusual/Unique Baby Names

Nowadays, fewer parents are naming their kids with traditional and classic names, trying to find a different, refreshing name for their child. Because of this, finding a really Unique baby name is becoming much harder.

These are some helpful tips that we think may help you find an unusual, yet comfortable name for your child.

Traditional (but Unique Baby Names):

There are still the traditional ways of selecting your baby's name. The first, of course, is using a name that has been in the family for years - perhaps the name of an aunt or uncle, or a grandparent. The other way is to browse through the Baby Names Dictionarys' 28,000+ names to select from. Although some of the names are common, you can certainly find some unusual names.

Name meanings:

To choose a unique name, you could decide on what you want your child's name to mean. Baby Names Dictionary has a resource where you can type in what you want your child's name to mean. From there, we will pull out a list of names, both popular and unusual, with that meaning.

Place names:

A lot of parents nowadays are using this method to name their child. Some places actually make pretty good names, but because method is becoming popular, naming your child after the place she or he was born may not make a very uncommon name anymore. Places like Colorado, Phoenix, Denver or Salem are some popular names for boys. As for the girls, Paris, Vienna, Asia and Atlanta are some of the preferred names.

Names from nature:

Words from nature are also a unique way of naming your kids. That way, the beauty of that word is in your child's name. How about something like Raine, Leaf, Sky or Dew?

Using a surname as a first name for unusual baby names:

This is also another method of naming that is becoming more and more common. It means taking the surnames of your ancestors, famous people, or anyone of your choice and using it as a first name. Like for girls, some popular surnames used as first names are McCartney, Bronte, Liotta and Piper. For boys, Beckett, Addison, Brewster, Donovan and Jenson are popular.

Anagrams:

Want a unique name for your child but there are a few traditional ones that you really like? Take that name and create an anagram of it. Use Scrabble tiles from the game and shift the letters or add a few more. Be creative. Let your imagination run wild.

Telescoping:

Take the name and drop letters until you've found a name you like. Kahlil and Gibran can be combined and then telescoped to Kabran. Schuyler can be telescoped to become Sky. Get the picture?

From the father's name:

You can name your child after their father. For example, if the father's name is Donald, his son can be Doni or his daughter, Donnie. Or John. It can be changed to Joanie, Joanna or Jonalie.

From the mother's name:

Naming a boy after his mother's maiden name is one way of doing it. You could change the mother's name to a suitable name for a boy. Like Mary, you could alter it to Martin, Matt, Mason or Marren. Or if it's a girl you could name her Marii, Marinne or Marine.

Name or word combinations:

This means a name taken from combining two other names; most of the time it's from the child's parents or grandparents. For instance, let's say a couple, Ridge and Brooke, have a baby girl. They could combine their names together and name her Bridgette. This may not be very unique, but you get the idea. A better example would be David and Trina. (Davina) This way, you get an unusual name for your child and at the same time, you can honor a family member.

Change the spelling:

Make an ordinary name more unusual by changing the spelling. Like Caitlin, it can become CaitLin. You could change Rianne to RiAnne. Or, you also could add an apostrophe, and Janet becomes J'Nette/J'Net.

Unique names are fun, different and anything goes! Its only limitation is your imagination. Names are inspired from everywhere, from fashion designers to colors to months. June and April make nice names for girls. Azure, Gray and Burgundy are also great names. Countries or states like Dakota or Carolina are also used. But remember, with every pro, there's a con.

Names that are very complicated to pronounce or spell, although it makes them stand out, it also brings aggravation to your child because they would have to constantly correct the spelling or pronunciation for the rest of their life.

Oh yeah, and also, giving a boy a girl's name or vice versa is something you absolutely do not want to do. Imagine the amount of teasing he or she would get from their classmates. Not something you would want for your child, to be laughed at and teased. Howard O'Brien is now Anne Rice, author of the famous vampire books. She was given a boy's name because her folks wanted a boy!

Overall, unique names are not a bad thing. Just be kind to your kid and choose wisely.

About The Author:

This article was taken from Baby Names Dictionary. Baby Names Dictionary is an award winnig software with a searchable database of over 28,000 names. It will help you find the perfect name for your baby. For more information, go to: http://www.baby-names-dic.com/

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Unique Baby Names

by: Michael Barrows

What's in a name? Er…well, everything, really! Of course your little bundle of joy is the sweetest, most beautiful thing you have ever seen and you want to choose a name that reflects his/her individuality, spirituality, uniqueness and all-round special-ness.

But wait a minute!

Remember that the unique baby name you choose will help define junior's life - how they are viewed and accepted - for many, many years. What sounds cute and original for a 5-year-old, may not sound so funky for a 15-year-old…and what about a 55-year old?

Time was when only celebrities could get away with unique baby names (Zowie Bowie, Dweezil and Moon Unit Zappa, etc), but in the modern world, individuality is more prized than ever before, and increasingly, this starts with our names. Great idea - but don't allow a flash of a self-indulgence to condemn your child to a lifetime of problems; it's reported that a Chinese couple named their child "Saddam Sars" to mark the current world events at the time of the birth! I just hope it means something nice in Mandarin, or Cantonese!

This probably wouldn't have happened in Germany, where names can only be registered if they recognizable, do not ridicule the child and are gender specific. Perhaps there is at least one Chinese child in the world, who will grow up wishing he/she were German!

So - assuming you are not German - what should you do if you want to create a unique baby name, without creating too many problems? Here are some tips and some warnings to make the process less painful:

1. Anagrams: try creating an anagram of an existing name.

2. Father and Mother: try using derivatives of one of the parents' names, or a combination of both. Alternatively, how does the mother's maiden name sound as a first name?

3. Telescoping: try dropping letters from another name or a word, until you get a nice-sounding unique baby name.

4. Spelling: an unusual spelling of a common name creates uniqueness. However, remember that your child will be condemned to a lifetime of "…that's David spelt D..A..Y..V..I..D…" conversations.

5. Pronunciation: another trick is to pronounce a common name in an unusual way. But this can also lead to a lifetime of corrections and explanations - as well as teasing and accusations of pretentiousness.

6. History: do some research into names that were popular in previous eras, but have become less so.

7. Family History: are there any unusual baby names that can be used to honor family members or ancestors? But beware family politics…

8. Nature: many names come from the natural world, particularly flowers (e.g. Rose) and it's a great source for unique baby names (e.g. Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter Apple).

9. Geography: another useful source of great names - grab an atlas and start searching. David and Victoria Beckham called their first son Brooklyn, which many people think is a cool-sounding name. However, it's reported that the choice was made because that's where conception took place. Hmmm, imagine a lifetime in which your name is a constant reminder of your parents having sex! Eeeuuuuww!!!

10. Celebrities: famous people with slightly unusual names are a common source of inspiration. There are lots of teenage "Kylie"s running around the UK since Kylie Minogue's arrival on the music scene at end of the '80's, and her recent resurgence, will have created a second wave of them. And I'm sure many little "Be'yonce"s have been popping up over the last few years. The only problem is that names like these very soon begin to sound a little silly and "wannabe".

11. Foreign Names: consider using a foreign version of a name, e.g., Pedro, instead of Peter. Or try using a name from a completely different culture.

12. Nicknames: try using a nickname e.g. Angie, instead of Angela or Angelina. However, make sure the name is will pass the "age test" - see number 17 below.

13. Middle Names: a great way to accommodate individuality when naming your baby, is to combine a common first name with a unique second/middle name. The benefit of this is that your child can avoid embarrassment throughout his/her life by ignoring it of keeping it hidden.

14. Initials: when you have settled on some baby names, check that the initials aren't embarrassing. This is an easy trap to fall into and can lead to a lifetime of misery. "Zina Indigo" are may be nice sounding names for your lovely daughter, but make sure your surname doesn't begin with "T"!

15. First Name-Surname: check how the selected first name combines with the surname. Make sure the two names do not create some something recognizable, to prevent a lifetime of teasing. Also, check the rhythm of the two names; a different number of syllables in each name usually flows much better. Avoid rhyming the 2 names at all costs or your child will hate you forever!

16. The loudness test: try saying the name softly, at normal pitch and shouting it very loudly. You may be surprised at the results.

17. The age test: try to visualize your child with the name as a baby, as a teenager, as a young adult, a mature adult and as a senior citizen. A name can create completely different perceptions of the individual at separate stages of life.

18. The meaning: the final test of the baby name that you choose should be to check its meaning (if any). Don't leave your child open to getting a nasty surprise later in life.

Whatever unique baby name you decide, don't fall into the trap of self-indulgence. Remember, it's not about you, it's all about your child. Your grand design to celebrate the uniqueness of this new human being, may eventually lead to a lifelong, desperate desire for conformity and anonymity. Even Zowie Bowie eventually changed his name to "Joey"…

About The Author

Michael Barrows' website has great advice for choosing baby names and lots of great baby resources. Get your free ebook packed with baby tips for new parents, visit http://www.all-about-baby-names.com.

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Today's Baby Names

by: Julie Parker

One of the most exciting things new parents get to do before the arrival of their child is choose the baby's name. Will it be something popular or unusual? A family name or something original? We will explore the top baby names as well as some of the more unique possibilities to help you choose the perfect name.

Top Baby Names

In the 90s, the most popular name for a boy was Michael. For the past five years, the most common name has been Jacob. Other popular names include Joshua, Matthew, Ethan, Andrew, Daniel, William, Joseph, Gregory, Jonathan, Benjamin, and Christopher. If you are looking for a classic, these baby names have been popular for years.

The most popular name for a girl has not changed in the past fifteen years. It continues to be Emily, and is currently followed by Emma, Madison, Olivia, Hannah, Abigail, Isabella, Ashley, Samantha, and Elizabeth. Except for Ashley and Elizabeth, the popularity of the others is recent and affected by pop culture, especially television shows.

Other sources of popular names are best-selling novels and celebrities. After Gweneth Paltrow named her daughter Apple, many people have done the same. The Harry Potter books and the Lord of the Rings movies have also added many names to the list of the most popular.

Unusual Baby Names

One way today's parents have created unusual names for their children is by changing the spelling of a popular name. Variations that are becoming less unusual include Emilie, Elisabeth, Karin, and Erika. Names like Stacy can be spelled in three different ways (Stacy, Stacie, Staci).

Another way to personalize a baby name is to use a nickname as the child's full name. For instance, Ben instead of Benjamin, Jon instead of Jonathan, and Matt instead of Matthew are becoming more common.

Other unusual sources for baby names come from the world around us. The popularity of names such as April and May continues to come and go, while names such as Winter, and Hazel are still unusual. Consider choosing a baby name reminiscient of the time of year when your child will be born or the time of year they were conceived. Fruit, vegetables, colors, and the adjectives that describe them are a good starting point (Pear, Lemon, Azure). Other uncommon names are those of plants and flowers, such as Hyacinth, Daisy, and Fern.

Other ideas to get you thinking:

Africa

Autumn

Butterfly

Calla

Kansas

Peach

Names that describe an ideal or a personality, such as Hope, Grace, Prudence, Patience, Temperance, or Chastity, are still unusual although not entirely unique. Other descriptive baby names include Cadence and Candid.

Other unusual names come from sources that are not commonly used today. While Biblical names are popular, Greek mythology is only rarely used. Your child may be the only one in their class to have the name Athena, Minerva, or Pan. Or you could give them a name from another culture, such as the Swedish Carina or the Polish Aleksy.

Baby names from other cultures include:

Anuket - Egyptian mythology

Augustyn - Polish

Crina - Romanian

Dimitriy (Dima) - Russian

Freya - Norse mythology

Hestia - Greek mythology

Kirill - Russian

The possibilities are endless! But as mentioned above, remember that if the source of your baby's name is a television show, novel, or celebrity, the name may not be that unusual when they begin school several years down the road. This is especially true for girls. Look for Apple, Reese, and Uma to be popular over the next five years.

Perhaps you'd like something even more original.

Unique Baby Names

If you don't want your child's name to be the same as anyone else's, you can create a unique baby name. These names can have many sources. The more common methods of creating something original are by the combination of family names or the addition of a syllable or letter to a popular name. An example of the latter is Kylen, a unique girl's name which stems from the boy's name Kyle. Unique baby names which may come from a family name include Stafford, Prestoff, and Kilin. While some people may find these better suited for a middle name, others may prefer their unique nature.

A sampling of unique names:

Baton

Jaico

Kermin

Lorelai

Mady

The Meaning of a Name

For some people, it doesn't matter whether a baby name is popular or unique, it just has to mean a certain thing. Rather than choose a baby name with an obvious connotation such as Spring, Grace, or Rose, they want a name that will bring goodwill to their child through its ancient origin.

Some popular as well as unusual baby names include:

Adelaide (Adelia, Alyssa, Allison) - noble

Albert - bright

Alethea - truth

Beatrice - traveller

Cara - beloved

Colbert - bright

Darwin - friend

Elfleda - beauty

Gertrude - stength

Hannah (Anna) - favor, grace

Henry (Henrietta) - power

Isolde - beauty

Keisha - favorite

Letitia - joy

Manfred - strength

Osmund - protector

Robert (Bob) - fame

Vivian - alive

Tips For Choosing

There are many things to consider when you finally select a baby name. Will this be a name your child can use for life, or will it sound silly when it refers to an adult? Will this name cause your child to be picked on? Will they have to constantly correct people in its pronunciation or spelling, and does this concern you? Are there any stereotypes (good or bad) associated with it?

One last concern is: does it fit with your last name? Generally it sounds better if there are a different number of syllables in the first and last names. Only rarely should the first letter of the first and last names be the same. This is of course more of a concern for boys, as they will keep their name for life. Of course, any decisions about hyphenation in the last name should be made before the first name is chosen.

Try not to get overwhelmed by the possibilities. After all, you have nine months to make this decision! Leave yourself open to the myriad sources of ideas, and you will find the baby name for you. And of course, if you let people know you're looking, friends, family members, and even coworkers might add their own suggestions!

Keep these things in mind, and you will choose a popular, or unusual, or unique baby name that your child will be proud of for life.

About The Author

Julie Parker is a successful writer and publisher providing valuable tips and advice on finding the top baby names, unusual baby names, and baby name meanings. http://www.about-baby-showers.com.

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25 Top Irish Names for a Baby Girl

by: Mary Arnold

Would you like to give your baby girl a name reflective of your Irish roots? In this article, I’ve listed some of the most popular names for a girl in Ireland, according to the Central Statistics Office of Ireland. For each name appearing below, I have given the Gaelic spelling, the name’s meaning, and, when applicable, the Anglo-Saxon version of the name.

Abaigeal - Gaelic for Abigail; "father's joy"

Áine - often used for Anne; "joy, praise"

Aleanbh - Gaelic for Alannah; "the bright fair one, beautiful child"

Aoife - Gaelic for Eve; "life-giving"

Brenna - "raven-haired"

Bridget - "strong, spirited" Caitlin - Gaelic for Catherine; "pure"

Ceallach - Gaelic for Kelly; "a warrior"

Ceilí - Gaelic for Kayleigh; "party, celebration"

Clár - Gaelic for Claire; "bright"

Eilís - Gaelic for Elizabeth; "consecrated to God"

Erin - "from Ireland"

Fallon - "a leader"

Fíona - "the fair one"

Isibéal - Gaelic for Isabel/Isabella; "consecrated to God"

Mairéad - Gaelic for Margaret; "pearl"

Máire - Gaelic for Mary; "bitter"

Nuala - Gaelic for Nola; "fair-shouldered one"

Ráichéal - Gaelic for Rachael; "little lamb"

Riona - "a queen, queen-like"

Saraid - Gaelic for Sarah; "princess"

Shannon - "wise one"

Sháuna - feminine of Sean; "God is gracious"

Sinéad - Gaelic for Jane; "gracious, merciful"

Siobhán - Gaelic for Joan; "God is gracious"

These are just a few of the many Irish names that would be appropriate for a baby girl. If you did not find anything you like here, there are many websites that offer a more extensive list.

About The Author

Mary Arnold holds a B.A. in literature and history. She is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names.

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25 Top Irish Names for a Baby Boy

by: Mary Arnold

Would you like to give your baby boy a name reflective of your Irish roots? In this article, I’ve listed some of the most popular names for a boy in Ireland, according to the Central Statistics Office of Ireland. For each name appearing below, I have given the Gaelic spelling, the name’s meaning, and, when applicable, the Anglo-Saxon version of the name.

Adhamh – Gaelic for Adam; “red earth, ruddy”

Aidan – “the little fiery one”

Ailín – Gaelic for Alan, Allen; “noble”

Aindréas – Gaelic for Andrew; “manly, valiant, courageous”

Áron – Gaelic for Aaron; “shining light, messenger”

Breandan – Gaelic for Brendan; “prince”

Caoimhín – Gaelic for Kevin; “handsome”

Concobhar – Gaelic for Conor/Connor; “a strong will”

Cormac – “lad of the chariot”

Dainéal – Gaelic for Daniel; “oak”

Dáivi – Gaelic for David; “beloved one”

Darragh – “small great one, riches”

Declan – name of a 5th century bishop

Dermot – “free of envy”

Donovan – “dark warrior”

Dylan – “sea god, son of the waves”

Fionn – “white, fair”

Liam – Gaelic for William; “determined guardian”

Micheál – Gaelic for Michael; “who is like God”

Pádraig – Gaelic for Patrick; “noble, well-born”

Roibeárd – Gaelic for Robert; “bright, famous”

Ruairí – Gaelic for Rory; “the red king”

Séamus – Gaelic for James; “the supplanter”

Seán – Gaelic for John; “God is gracious”

Steafán – Gaelic for Stephen; “crown”

These are just a few of the many Irish names that would be appropriate for a baby boy. If you did not find anything you like here, there are many websites that offer a more extensive list.

About The Author

Mary Arnold holds a B.A. in literature and history. She is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names

Baby Names

by: Robin Darch

Okay, you only get to do this once so let’s get it right. Remember that it’s not about you! Your little boy or girl is going to have to live with this name for the rest of their life. If they change it on their 18th birthday, you probably did a bad job of naming your baby.

In this article, I’m going to take you on a tour of the Internet as I look for baby names. I’ll be your guide, so sit back and relax. I know what I’m doing here. Trust me.

Before we start, though, no drinking on this tour. It results in baby names like Justin Case, Sandy Castles, Paige Turner, Rusty Hook, Shaunda Lear, Candy Kaine, or others just as bad. As a matter of fact let’s start out by searching for what not to name your baby.

So, you want to be original. Great. Remember, your kid’s gonna be mad when he or she finds out there were much better choices! Ok, that’s not bad enough? Well there are websites that make fun of bad baby name choices too. Some quotes from websites about people’s baby name choices.

These are actual questions posted on the Internet about naming babies;

I love this one “I once met a lady named Rodana. I think she runs a successful Internet business.” In her spare time she destroys Tokyo.

And this one too. “I've suggested to my sister that she name her little girl to be - Manchester. She's not sure about it but she's considering. What do you think?” “Clever. Like being named Pittsburg or Schenectady. Kid'll grow up to be beaten to death by Liverpool fans.”

“We'd kind of like something that sounds good with Mikayla (our 3-year-old).” “Dear God, they're tailoring them into box sets!”

“What about the name skylar or raven?” “Thanks, 14-year-old-Goth-girl!”

“What about Bubba for a boy. a great unusual name “ “Since when did your Ozark shack get Internet access?”

“Do you like the name Alexia? I think it’s exotic and all 3 of my other girl’s names begin with an A too.” "Though Alexia sounds like a pretty name for a girl... alexia is actually an inability to read, caused by brain damage." “So maybe she should another A name. Something pretty, like Amnesia.”

“I am not pregnant yet but thinking about names...I just thought of the name Lourdes Solange. This baby will be 75% latina and 15% european :)“ “...and 10% polyester”

...and finally “Anyone ever thought about Sierra Joy? I love the name, but husband is less than thrilled with it.” “But he'll love the pine-fresh scent!”

And for all the geeks, nerds, and Internet junkies out there, yes, the Internet and your computer can conspire to name your baby for you! Try this one for unique baby names.

http://www.babyzone.com/babynames/nameinventor.asp

I just love the categor