Thursday, November 6, 2008
Baby Sign Language
I have been doing so much research on the traditional baby security blanket, that sometimes I get a little side tracked. Today I really got onto something that is of special interest to me.
I read an article by Wendy Owen that I found extremely interesting and I'm sure you will also. Baby sign language is so new, yet it has always been there.
Even when the baby's hand waves in the air, he is trying to tell you something. They have control of their hand movements at a very young age, and with today's knowledge of baby sign language we are able to understand them, and teach them a way of expressing their needs.
Take a few minutes out and enjoy Wendy's article. Check out her site also, it is extremely helpful to the new and soon to be new Mom.
Baby Sign Language - Can My Baby Talk to Me? By Wendy Owen
Baby sign language is making parent's lives easier all over the world. Have you ever tried to soothe your crying baby and felt frustrated that you couldn't understand what she really wanted?
Well you're not alone. In fact, many parents feel the same way. It's difficult at times to know what your baby really wants, and it's not only frustrating to you, but it's frustrating for her as well when she can't communicate what she wants. Baby sign language involves teaching your baby basic sign language that will help them to communicate their needs, but you may be wondering - can your baby really communicate in this way? According to new studies, baby sign language is actually quite effective. It all got started with a researcher, Joseph Garcia, who spent some time studying how a baby communicated with his parents who were deaf. The 10-month old was able to communicate fairly well, even at that young age, with his parents. After observing how this worked, Garcia began to promote his sign language for parents who had normal hearing. Believe it or not, most babies actually can pick up the baby sign language rather quickly. In fact, it's easier for babies to sign at a young age than it is to talk, since they have better control over their hands at an earlier age than they do the muscles in their mouth and tongue. You can actually start teaching babies sign language when they are about six months old, although some are starting even younger. Parents have been amazed at how quickly their babies picked up on the signs. Teaching baby to sign takes away a lot of the frustration for babies. Instead of having to scream hoping that their parents will figure out the problem, it gives them the freedom to communicate what they need, which is a huge help to both of you. Some parents are concerned that teaching their baby to sign is going to make them develop language skills at a slower rate. Well, according to studies, this is certainly not the case. In fact, studies show that babies that are taught to sign actually start speaking more quickly. Some signing babies even show a higher IQ later in life. Baby sign language can be easily taught to your child. There are excellent classes available that can help you to work with your baby, although some parents choose to teach their baby to sign themselves. For parents who decide to do this at home, there are many helpful resources available. You will need a baby sign language chart and an instruction book. Flash cards with pictures are another useful tool. If you are tired and frustrated at the lack of communication between you and your baby, then baby sign language may be a great choice for you.
Do you have trouble find childbirth info on medical sites? http://www.natural-childbirth-baby-care.com/ aims to inform you all about natural childbirth and baby care without the jargon making it easy and fun to read
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wendy_Owen
I read an article by Wendy Owen that I found extremely interesting and I'm sure you will also. Baby sign language is so new, yet it has always been there.
Even when the baby's hand waves in the air, he is trying to tell you something. They have control of their hand movements at a very young age, and with today's knowledge of baby sign language we are able to understand them, and teach them a way of expressing their needs.
Take a few minutes out and enjoy Wendy's article. Check out her site also, it is extremely helpful to the new and soon to be new Mom.
Baby Sign Language - Can My Baby Talk to Me? By Wendy Owen
Baby sign language is making parent's lives easier all over the world. Have you ever tried to soothe your crying baby and felt frustrated that you couldn't understand what she really wanted?
Well you're not alone. In fact, many parents feel the same way. It's difficult at times to know what your baby really wants, and it's not only frustrating to you, but it's frustrating for her as well when she can't communicate what she wants. Baby sign language involves teaching your baby basic sign language that will help them to communicate their needs, but you may be wondering - can your baby really communicate in this way? According to new studies, baby sign language is actually quite effective. It all got started with a researcher, Joseph Garcia, who spent some time studying how a baby communicated with his parents who were deaf. The 10-month old was able to communicate fairly well, even at that young age, with his parents. After observing how this worked, Garcia began to promote his sign language for parents who had normal hearing. Believe it or not, most babies actually can pick up the baby sign language rather quickly. In fact, it's easier for babies to sign at a young age than it is to talk, since they have better control over their hands at an earlier age than they do the muscles in their mouth and tongue. You can actually start teaching babies sign language when they are about six months old, although some are starting even younger. Parents have been amazed at how quickly their babies picked up on the signs. Teaching baby to sign takes away a lot of the frustration for babies. Instead of having to scream hoping that their parents will figure out the problem, it gives them the freedom to communicate what they need, which is a huge help to both of you. Some parents are concerned that teaching their baby to sign is going to make them develop language skills at a slower rate. Well, according to studies, this is certainly not the case. In fact, studies show that babies that are taught to sign actually start speaking more quickly. Some signing babies even show a higher IQ later in life. Baby sign language can be easily taught to your child. There are excellent classes available that can help you to work with your baby, although some parents choose to teach their baby to sign themselves. For parents who decide to do this at home, there are many helpful resources available. You will need a baby sign language chart and an instruction book. Flash cards with pictures are another useful tool. If you are tired and frustrated at the lack of communication between you and your baby, then baby sign language may be a great choice for you.
Do you have trouble find childbirth info on medical sites? http://www.natural-childbirth-baby-care.com/ aims to inform you all about natural childbirth and baby care without the jargon making it easy and fun to read
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wendy_Owen
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Creating an Organic Baby Nursery - 5 Easy Tips by Sheila Baskerville
With the recent focus on organic living and eco-friendly products, many parents have become interested in creating non-toxic, natural living spaces for their children. One room that typically receives special attention is the baby nursery. Since newborns are still developing, a healthy home environment is particularly important. Creating an eco-friendly or organic baby nursery is a smart move not only for your baby, but for your family and the environment as well.
If you've ever awaited the birth of a child, you know that it's an exciting time! With happy anticipation, the decorating frenzy begins. Bedding and furniture are purchased, walls are painted and new floors may be installed. It's natural to want everything in the baby nursery to be new and beautiful for your precious newborn.
But new and beautiful doesn't necessarily mean safe. Traditional furniture, paints and fabrics may have chemicals and toxins that can be unhealthy for your baby. Luckily, stores and online boutiques are offering more eco-friendly options for furniture, wall coverings, floorings, and organic baby bedding. These natural, organic baby products are typically produced without the use of harmful chemicals and thus contribute to a healthier nursery environment.
Here are five smart purchases to make when creating your organic baby nursery.
A Natural Wood Crib. Your baby will spend a lot of time sleeping so you want a crib that is non-toxic. Traditional wood cribs may have harmful stains or finishes while furniture made from pressed wood may contain adhesives that can also irritate your baby. Consider purchasing a sustainable natural wood crib with a non-toxic finish.
An Organic Crib Mattress. Your baby's actual sleeping surface is just as important as the crib. Conventional mattresses may contain materials and toxins that may be released into the air while your baby sleeps. To promote your baby's health and safety, look for organic crib mattresses that are made from certified-organic materials and fabrics.
Organic Crib Bedding. Many people are unaware that conventionally-grown cotton is one of the most heavily-sprayed crops in the world. To ensure that your baby's sensitive skin is not exposed to toxins in regular cotton bedding, consider organic baby bedding made from natural, organic fabrics and eco-friendly dyes.
Eco-friendly Carpet and Flooring. Traditional carpets typically contain known allergens such as adhesives, stain protectors and flame retardants. To avoid bringing these allergens into your baby's room, look for healthier alternatives such as eco-friendly hardwoods, bamboo and cork floorings or rugs made of natural fibers.
Eco-friendly Paint. Ever notice that strong smell in the air when painting? Many traditional paints emit toxins called volatile organic compounds which can be hazardous to your family's health. Look for low-voc, zero-voc or milk-based paints made of natural non-toxic elements.
Decorating your baby's nursery can be a wonderful way to prepare for his or her arrival. With careful consideration to these key design elements, your baby's nursery will be the healthy, nurturing environment that you desire.
For more great information on natural, organic baby products and eco-friendly parenting tips, visit http://www.natural-organic-baby.com - From organic cotton clothing, nursery furniture, and toys to natural baby skincare products, Natural-Organic-Baby.com is your online resource.
© Copyright 2008 Natural-Organic-Baby.com, All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheila_Baskerville
If you've ever awaited the birth of a child, you know that it's an exciting time! With happy anticipation, the decorating frenzy begins. Bedding and furniture are purchased, walls are painted and new floors may be installed. It's natural to want everything in the baby nursery to be new and beautiful for your precious newborn.
But new and beautiful doesn't necessarily mean safe. Traditional furniture, paints and fabrics may have chemicals and toxins that can be unhealthy for your baby. Luckily, stores and online boutiques are offering more eco-friendly options for furniture, wall coverings, floorings, and organic baby bedding. These natural, organic baby products are typically produced without the use of harmful chemicals and thus contribute to a healthier nursery environment.
Here are five smart purchases to make when creating your organic baby nursery.
A Natural Wood Crib. Your baby will spend a lot of time sleeping so you want a crib that is non-toxic. Traditional wood cribs may have harmful stains or finishes while furniture made from pressed wood may contain adhesives that can also irritate your baby. Consider purchasing a sustainable natural wood crib with a non-toxic finish.
An Organic Crib Mattress. Your baby's actual sleeping surface is just as important as the crib. Conventional mattresses may contain materials and toxins that may be released into the air while your baby sleeps. To promote your baby's health and safety, look for organic crib mattresses that are made from certified-organic materials and fabrics.
Organic Crib Bedding. Many people are unaware that conventionally-grown cotton is one of the most heavily-sprayed crops in the world. To ensure that your baby's sensitive skin is not exposed to toxins in regular cotton bedding, consider organic baby bedding made from natural, organic fabrics and eco-friendly dyes.
Eco-friendly Carpet and Flooring. Traditional carpets typically contain known allergens such as adhesives, stain protectors and flame retardants. To avoid bringing these allergens into your baby's room, look for healthier alternatives such as eco-friendly hardwoods, bamboo and cork floorings or rugs made of natural fibers.
Eco-friendly Paint. Ever notice that strong smell in the air when painting? Many traditional paints emit toxins called volatile organic compounds which can be hazardous to your family's health. Look for low-voc, zero-voc or milk-based paints made of natural non-toxic elements.
Decorating your baby's nursery can be a wonderful way to prepare for his or her arrival. With careful consideration to these key design elements, your baby's nursery will be the healthy, nurturing environment that you desire.
For more great information on natural, organic baby products and eco-friendly parenting tips, visit http://www.natural-organic-baby.com - From organic cotton clothing, nursery furniture, and toys to natural baby skincare products, Natural-Organic-Baby.com is your online resource.
© Copyright 2008 Natural-Organic-Baby.com, All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheila_Baskerville
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Toddler Entertainment
I just came across this fantastic book of 101 ways to entertain your toddler. You will certainly benefit from this Mom's writing. She is a mother of 5 children, and she knows what you need. If you have a few minutes of your day free from kids check it out.
Click Here!
Click Here!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
I've put together some items from Amazon.com to help simplify your shopping searches. Please visit for great educational items for the early years. Christmas is just around the corner, and I'm starting right here on this site. Join in on some fun and educational shopping.. You can visit at http://astore.amazon.com/wwwtoddlertai-20
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Solo Time for Babies and Toddlers is a Positive Learning Experience by Connie Limon
Experts agree it is important for babies and toddlers to have time by themselves – solo time. Interaction with adults and peers is vital; however, it is just as important that your baby and/or toddler learn how to spend time by themselves. Some of the benefits of solo time include:
• Provides baby with a variety of learning opportunities
• Baby and/or toddler can explore his environment at his own pace
• Self-reliance
• Learns how to focus attention
• Learn from mistakes
• Strengthens identity
• Frees mom and dad to do tend to chores, make phone calls or just relax
• All the above experiences boost a child’s self-esteem
Children usually see themselves as a separate individual for the first time at around 8 months of age. Independent play helps a child become a friend to him and helps him to feel comfortable around other children.
A baby content to play solo is a great asset for parents as well. While your child is entertaining himself, mom or dad is free to do a chore, make phone calls, or just relax. Introducing your child to solo play is not just a matter of placing him in a room by himself and leaving him there.
Before you introduce your child to solo play, here are a few things you need to consider:
• Your child’s age and developmental stage (the older he is, the longer he will be able to play alone)
• Your child’s temperament (an even-tempered, calm child may be more willing to start solo play at a younger age than a feisty, demanding child.
To begin solo play:
• Establish an alone time period every day
• Put the child in a small area that has been childproofed
• Offer the child a few of his favorite toys or books
• Start playing or reading with him
• When your child is involved in an activity, remove yourself from his immediate vicinity.
If your baby is under one year old, do not leave him alone completely. Instead, sit a few feet away and offer words of encouragement every few minutes to help give your baby a sense of security. As your baby gets older, go to the other side of the room or leave the room entirely for short periods of time. Be sure to stay near enough to hear inside the room where baby is. Peek in regularly to ensure baby’s safety. Before you leave the room, talk to baby a little about what he is doing before you leave, and after you have peeked in on him.
Some children will stop playing as soon as you do. If this happens, try playing with him for a few seconds, then walk away for a few seconds. Return to play. Keep up this routine for a few days so your child understands when you leave, he can expect you to return shortly. Over time children become more interested in their toys than in your comings and goings.
If your baby cries the moment you are out of sight, try letting him initiate solo time. If he crawls into a nearby room, wait a minute or two before you follow him. If you need to leave baby for a few minutes, tell him you’re going and reassure him with your voice when he fusses rather than rushing back to him. It may take some time, but eventually your baby will learn being alone is not so scary.
It is not always the child who resists solo play. Sometimes it is mom or dad, who has received so much information about stimulating their children. If they are not stimulating some kind of activity every spare minute of the day they think they are doing something wrong and feel guilty.
The importance of quality time for parents and children cannot be overemphasized; however, parents should not take this concept to the extreme. It may be difficult to sit and watch your baby play alone. You just need to remind yourself that it is a necessary, positive learning experience for your child.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use the information in this article to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child’s condition.
This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.
Written by: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.babiesandtoddlers1.com About Babies and Toddlers is a collection of articles all about babies and toddlers available for information, education and FREE reprints to your newsletters, websites or blogs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connie_Limon
• Provides baby with a variety of learning opportunities
• Baby and/or toddler can explore his environment at his own pace
• Self-reliance
• Learns how to focus attention
• Learn from mistakes
• Strengthens identity
• Frees mom and dad to do tend to chores, make phone calls or just relax
• All the above experiences boost a child’s self-esteem
Children usually see themselves as a separate individual for the first time at around 8 months of age. Independent play helps a child become a friend to him and helps him to feel comfortable around other children.
A baby content to play solo is a great asset for parents as well. While your child is entertaining himself, mom or dad is free to do a chore, make phone calls, or just relax. Introducing your child to solo play is not just a matter of placing him in a room by himself and leaving him there.
Before you introduce your child to solo play, here are a few things you need to consider:
• Your child’s age and developmental stage (the older he is, the longer he will be able to play alone)
• Your child’s temperament (an even-tempered, calm child may be more willing to start solo play at a younger age than a feisty, demanding child.
To begin solo play:
• Establish an alone time period every day
• Put the child in a small area that has been childproofed
• Offer the child a few of his favorite toys or books
• Start playing or reading with him
• When your child is involved in an activity, remove yourself from his immediate vicinity.
If your baby is under one year old, do not leave him alone completely. Instead, sit a few feet away and offer words of encouragement every few minutes to help give your baby a sense of security. As your baby gets older, go to the other side of the room or leave the room entirely for short periods of time. Be sure to stay near enough to hear inside the room where baby is. Peek in regularly to ensure baby’s safety. Before you leave the room, talk to baby a little about what he is doing before you leave, and after you have peeked in on him.
Some children will stop playing as soon as you do. If this happens, try playing with him for a few seconds, then walk away for a few seconds. Return to play. Keep up this routine for a few days so your child understands when you leave, he can expect you to return shortly. Over time children become more interested in their toys than in your comings and goings.
If your baby cries the moment you are out of sight, try letting him initiate solo time. If he crawls into a nearby room, wait a minute or two before you follow him. If you need to leave baby for a few minutes, tell him you’re going and reassure him with your voice when he fusses rather than rushing back to him. It may take some time, but eventually your baby will learn being alone is not so scary.
It is not always the child who resists solo play. Sometimes it is mom or dad, who has received so much information about stimulating their children. If they are not stimulating some kind of activity every spare minute of the day they think they are doing something wrong and feel guilty.
The importance of quality time for parents and children cannot be overemphasized; however, parents should not take this concept to the extreme. It may be difficult to sit and watch your baby play alone. You just need to remind yourself that it is a necessary, positive learning experience for your child.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use the information in this article to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child’s condition.
This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.
Written by: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.babiesandtoddlers1.com About Babies and Toddlers is a collection of articles all about babies and toddlers available for information, education and FREE reprints to your newsletters, websites or blogs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connie_Limon
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
An Addition To Baby's Security
Bringing up baby in today's world is so much easier than when I brought up my babies. Many of my kid's had security items, but none could ask for it without a whine or a tantrum.
My son became a father this year, and he is still teaching me things I don't know. I have learned so much from my kids, and I guess they are going to continue to teach their Mom. He and his wife are teaching their son Baby Sign Language. Of course, why not? I didn't know much about it, so I began researching why you would want to teach a hearing baby sign language.
Well, the kid's right again! It is absolutely the greatest thing! Why would anyone want to miss the first year of communication with their child? From birth the only form of communication babies have is crying. About 7 months later they begin to use gestures. This is usually where the security item shows it's true colors. They feel comfort in knowing it's in their hands. But what if he is thirsty? By learning sign language your child will be able to communicate his basic needs to you as early as 6 months. Just imagine the satisfaction of knowing just what your child is requiring, without tears and tantrums.
Search the net, you will find so much on this topic out there. It is so popular with parents, that I wish I had a young one myself to teach this to.
I am adding a link to this post, if you are interested in signing with your child, give it a visit.. I thought it was great information.
My son became a father this year, and he is still teaching me things I don't know. I have learned so much from my kids, and I guess they are going to continue to teach their Mom. He and his wife are teaching their son Baby Sign Language. Of course, why not? I didn't know much about it, so I began researching why you would want to teach a hearing baby sign language.
Well, the kid's right again! It is absolutely the greatest thing! Why would anyone want to miss the first year of communication with their child? From birth the only form of communication babies have is crying. About 7 months later they begin to use gestures. This is usually where the security item shows it's true colors. They feel comfort in knowing it's in their hands. But what if he is thirsty? By learning sign language your child will be able to communicate his basic needs to you as early as 6 months. Just imagine the satisfaction of knowing just what your child is requiring, without tears and tantrums.
Search the net, you will find so much on this topic out there. It is so popular with parents, that I wish I had a young one myself to teach this to.
I am adding a link to this post, if you are interested in signing with your child, give it a visit.. I thought it was great information.
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