Why You Need A Teething Pacifier

Somewhere around the time your toddler reaches that point where they are a half of a year old they will begin to teeth. Any time after they are six months old they will start to have teeth coming in. This is often an uncomfortable experience for your baby, because the gums are sensitive and their mouths hurt a lot. Sometimes they can become so irritable that they just sit and cry because of their mouth pain. Other times they are just grumpy, not wanting to eat or sleep as they sit their in your arms and drool. It’s obvious that your poor baby needs some pain relief. What do you do?

Give your baby a teething pacifier. Teething pacifiers are made just a little different from a regular pacifier and they are designed to help to make your baby’s mouth feel more comfortable. In doing this, it will make your toddler happier and more relaxed. The teething pacifier is designed so that it can go into the freezer to be cooled down. The coolness will will be experienced later in your baby’s mouth and it will ease their discomfort.

The special fluid inside the teething pacifier freezes without damaging the pacifier nodule. It allows the nipple to expand as it unfreezes. After it unfreezes, it returns to its normal shape and it allows your baby to suck on a regular pacifier. Its relaxing motion is felt after the pain in your baby’s mouth has been eased. This will allow your toddler to finally drift off to sleep after a period of irritability and restlessness.

A small container usually accompanies the teething pacifier to allow it to be cooled without sitting right in the freezer. You can also freeze the pacifier can also be frozen by putting it with ice packs for traveling. When your baby requires their teething pacifier you can pull one out of the cooler for immediate use. This is a very useful tool to keeping baby happy when they are going through the stage where teeth are popping up and their poor, little mouths are sore.

Michelle L. Spitzer

Owner, Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

New Year’s Eve Fun Crafts for You and Your Toddler!

Shake it Up with Shakers!

For this cool little craft you will need to purchase several strong cardboard paper bowls or small plates. Help your toddler to decorate the plates with different kinds of art materials, such as felt and paper scraps, newspaper and magazine clippings, and so on. Write “Happy New Year!” on the outside of each the plates or bowls. To assemble, place a handful of dried beans on a plate or bowl, and then cover it with another plate or bowl, then staple it shut. Now your child will have a homemade noisemaker!

Capture Time with a Time-Capsule Noise Maker!

This craft involves making the same shaker as described above, and hiding a time capsule inside of it. For the time capsule, have your child draw a picture of the family, answer questions about themselves, and include their dreams or goals for the New Year. Tuck the paper inside the noisemaker before you staple the plates shut. On New Year’s Eve, let your toddler shake some noise into the midnight hour. Then, store the noisemakers away (for at least five years) and bring them out to enjoy in the future.

Rattle into the New Year!

To make rattles for New Year’s Eve, use two clear plastic cups and invite your toddler to make rattles with you by placing a handful of dried beans, rice, clean fish tank gravel, shiny pennies, or colorful beads inside one glass. Put the other glass on top, then tape the two cups together (rim to rim) with colorful plastic tape. You can also use this tape to make stripes around the rattle for decoration.

Happy New Year and have FUN!

Michelle Spitzer

Owner, Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

 

 

 

Safest and Best Toys for Toddlers for Christmas

Whether you are shopping for your own toddler or someone else’s toys are generally what most people think of buying. Toddlers LOVE toys! Toys come in handy too, because they support moms and dads in consoling their children or to distract their consideration while administering medical treatment, when necessary. There are also toys that support in building the pondering and understanding in the minds and therefore, the abilities of toddlers. Here are a few of the warm toys for Christmas that any toddler will absolutely like.

Fashionable Toy Vehicles

Toy motor vehicles of all different sorts have generally been amongst the top 10 for Christmas. The most desirable toy motor vehicles are buses, trucks, helicopters, ships and planes. Most of these toy motor vehicles are a fantastic visual cure for toddlers. Then there are other, a lot more expensive versions of these toy motor vehicles which operate by way of remote control. Parents can support their toddlers in this regard by showing them how the toy vehicle functions, even though this kind of toys is not usually ideal for toddlers. Usually older children are the recipients of remote operated toys for Christmas. Toy motor vehicles for toddlers often come in different colors which can be fascinating for young children.

Stuffed Toys

Stuffed toys are a very popular present for toddlers for Christmas. Toddlers appreciate stuffed toys and can get somewhat emotionally connected to them. The most common stuffed toys for toddlers are animals, but they can also be a cartoon character, or a famous superhero. Dolls and miniature action figures can also make fantastic presents, but please be sure that there are no tiny elements that the toddler can choke on. There are stuffed toys that can move too, but these are again meant for children who are older. Stuffed toys for toddlers come in so many different colors and varieties that there is most certainly a single one that your toddler will like. Teddy bears and dolls are what they commonly favor, but there is no rule about what your toddler will like.

Big Colorful Balls

Toddlers like balls of all sizes, shapes and colors that have desirable patterns on them. Most young children like anything colorful. The simple fact that balls roll about make these straightforward toys even a lot more fascinating to toddlers. If you give a ball as a gift, be sure to that it is not also weighty enough to harm your baby or so tiny that it will pose a choking hazard. Be warned even though, that even when presenting him with this kind of a present, it automatically usually means that your toddler will need anyone to engage in with him, or he might end up crying when the ball rolls away from him.

Rattles

Toddlers usually like objects that do something. Objects that move, or exhibit light or sound are most enjoyed by them. Dazzling, colorful rattles, a set of rings connected jointly, and tiny scaled musical instruments that make sound are all fantastic options that toddlers usually like. Be sure that these toys have no tiny elements that can be swallowed by toddlers, and that they are designed from products that are risk-free for children.

Other than the above mentioned options, toys that can be great gifts for toddlers include things like developing blocks, jigsaw puzzles (with huge items), and a rocking horse. Security, of both, toddler and the toy, are the most critical issues that you have to keep in your head while giving a gift to a toddler.

These are our best suggestions for the best toddler toys for Christmas, but you can also go forward and purchase some other toys if you deem them fantastic and sufficient for your toddler. The recollections of playing with these toys will generally be with you and your baby permanently.

Merry Christmas to you and your toddler!

Michelle Spitzer

Owner, Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

Baking Snowman Cookies with your Toddler

Snowman Cookies

He’ll melt in your mouth!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Microwave canned white frosting on high for 10 seconds.

2. Dunk 24 plain doughnut holes in frosting; allow to set.

3. On half of the holes, squirt on eyes and a mouth with chocolate tube frosting.

4. Stick in a dried papaya triangle for the nose.

5. Make a hat with half an Oreo Mini and a piece of an Oreo Cookie Stick.

6. Place a fruit-leather scarf on top of an undecorated doughnut hole. Top with the face.

Have fun!

Michelle L. Spitzer

Owner, Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

How to Make Christmas Dinner with your Toddler

Here’s how to let your toddler join in the fun and tradition of preparing the holiday meal.

 

 

 

 

 

1. Gather your supplies and all of the necessary ingredients ahead of time. Get everything ready and decide beforehand what your toddler can help you with, thenen you won’t have to turn your back on your curious toddler while looking for ingredients.

2. Look for simple recipes and follow them. Let your toddler help with recipes that you find require little effort, such as tearing bread for stuffing or scooping flour for bread. Keep the more complex recipes for yourself.

3. Start your toddler with a simple task. Any task that requires simple steps, such as scooping or mashing, are best for first-time helpers. Also, be smart and give your toddler tasks that will take some time to complete. This will allow you to put together the other ingredients or work on other recipes while they are busy. If your toddler has cooked with you before, then you may want to experiment with pouring and stirring.

4. Explain to your toddler what you are doing. Tell them what steps you are following and what will come next. Talk about the specific amounts of ingredients you are using – 1 c. milk, 2 tbsp. cinnamon. Ask questions like, “What will we do with this flour? What is happening to the potatoes when you mash them?”

5. Be sure to point out the textures and smells of the ingredients you are using. Let your toddler explore with safe cooking ingredients.

6. Plan other kitchen activities for your toddler, such as washing safe objects in the sink which is a chore that toddlers love to do, especially if you have a sink hose. Use some pretend or safe dishes your toddler can pretend to cook with while you are preparing food.

Have fun and Merry Christmas!

Michelle Spitzer

Owner, Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

How to Build a Good Relationship with your Toddler’s Caregivers

Your toddler’s caregivers are counting on you to keep up your end of the bargain. They keep your child safe and secure while you’re at work, and you agree not to take advantage of them. Here are some tips on how to build a good relationship with them.

• Pick up your child on time. Sometimes there are emergencies , and you’re bound to be late once in a while, but make every effort to be prompt. If you anticipate a delay early in the day, call your childcare center or provider. Remember: Caregivers have lives too, and when you’re late, you make them late for their own appointments.
• Turn in all necessary paperwork. Even before your child attends his first day of school you’ll need to submit a bunch of documents such as immunization records and medical health release forms. State law mandates that all centers comply with this law, so be sure to help your childcare center out by handing in these forms on time.
• Bring up any problems immediately with the preschool director or the lead teacher. This is the most efficient way to get problems addressed and you are doing them a favor when you point out a blind spot in their operation.
• Read all notices and mail you get from the center. When you see papers in your child’s cubby, don’t toss them in the recycling bin. This may cause you to miss out on valuable information about school closings, field trips, or special events. Do not look at it as “junk” mail. Childcare centers try to keep you abreast of all activities they would like you to participate in.
• Make sure your child has all the supplies she needs. Keep extra clothes in her cubby in case of spills or potty accidents. If your toddler comes home wearing the spare clothing, be sure to bring a fresh set the next day. If your child’s class is doing a special art project, send her in with the she has the tools she needs.
• Report any illnesses to your center or preschool. Germs travel fast among children. The caregiver needs to know if your baby has been exposed to any highly contagious diseases. Anything contagious has to be reported because they need to spread the word to other parents.
• Let caregivers know if your child needs extra care on a particular day. If your little one didn’t sleep well the night before, or your partner is away on a business trip and your toddler is missing him, let the staff know. That way they’ll be able to give your child some extra attention.
• Let the staff know if your child’s routine will change on a given day. If grandma’s in town and wants to pick up your child in the afternoon, be sure to let the caregiver know. Daycare centers are not allowed to release your child to anyone but you unless you give them permission. If you’ll be picking up your baby early for a doctor’s appointment, call them and let them know that too.
• And of course, pay your fees when they’re due. This part is only fair. Don’t get caught with a zero bank balance when it comes time to write your childcare center a check. It is just bad form to keep them waiting for your payment.

Take care and until next time…

Michelle Spitzer

Owner at Pacifier B Gone

www.pacifierbgone.com

 

 

 

 

How to Survive Thanksgiving Dinner with a Toddler

The most important thing parents must not forget at Thanksgiving is safety. The holiday may be full of joy, but it has potential dangers all of it’s own.

Family gatherings are a traditional part of the holiday season and Thanksgiving is usually just the start of them. As diligent as parents may be about their own homes, they have no control over the many other houses they may visit during the holidays. When young children visit a relative’s house for the very first time they are dazzled by decorations and are often tempted by the desire to explore new places. Do not be embarrassed to ask ahead of time if your relative’s house is “child-proof.” Ask if fragile knick-knacks are placed high on shelves, if electrical outlets are plugged shut, and if the cupboards and cabinet doors have locks on them, etc.

Most party hosts are usually happy to accommodate by making their home safe for their youngest relatives. If they’re not, or they simply don’t have the time (who does?), then you will need to be aware of your toddler’s location at all times. For example, it only takes a tiny tug to bring a priceless antique crashing to the floor. It is also helpful for parents to plan ahead, and take turns watching their child, or ask an older child-a teenaged niece or nephew, for instance-to help keep an eye on their toddler.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Michelle L. Spitzer

Pacifier B Gone

How to Get your Toddler Ready for Their First Haircut

As your toddler approaches their second year, it will soon be time for their first haircut. You can avoid tears or tantrums with a little advance planning.

1. Go to a hair salon that specializes in kids. They sometimes have toys for them to sit on while they are getting their haircut, like horses or sports cars. This is a great way to distract your child from the scissors!

2. If you go to a regular salon or barber, be sure to schedule your appointment with an experienced stylist who knows how to cut children’s hair. Look for someone who will go out of her way to make your child feel comfortable and safe. This is important, because at a regular salon, your toddler will end up sitting in a booster chair. If your child doesn’t want to sit in the booster chair, ask the stylist if they can sit in your lap instead.

3.  Asking a toddler to sit still in a chair for for 10 to 15 minutes is a huge task! One that they will definitely handle better if they have had a good nap and also a full tummy.

4. If you have the opportunity, stop by the salon before the actual date to acquaint your toddler with the setting. If you can’t do this, try playing beauty salon or barber shop at home. Sit your toddler in her high chair, spritz her hair with a water bottle, and pretend you’re cutting her hair while you hold a scissor. Then tell her how beautiful she looks with her new haircut!

5. Finally, be sure to come armed with distractions. Bring some small toys from home to keep them happy and preoccupied.  A lollipop is also a great idea. Be sure to pack one of these too. The salon might have these items on hand, but it is a good idea to bring them yourself, just in case.

Happy Haircuts!

Michelle Spitzer, Pacifier B Gone

 

 

 

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How to Handle Toddler Teething

Every baby reacts differently to teething and it can be a challenging time for both you and your baby. You may find that your is crying uncontrollably, drooling and biting on her fingers. Teething is a painful time for your baby and a very diffcult time for you. It is definitely not fun, but teething is something every child must go through. Here are a few things you can do to help.

Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen

You may want to give your baby  acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help ease the pain if she is going through extreme pain. Either one of these medicines will help numb the pain, but ibuprofen has the added benefit of being an anti-inflammatory as well. This is especially useful because as the teeth come in, your baby’s gums can become very red an inflamed from the teeth pushing themselves up.

Teething Gels

Tooth gels come in baby strength as well.  Even though it seems like a great option to help your baby’s pain, be sure not to use this type of teething gel on your toddler until she reaches at least 4 months of age. Gels only provide temporary relief and can be washed away in your baby’s mouth which can result in numbing the wrong area. Apply only a small amount of the gel `directly where it’s needed.

Teething Rings 

You may want to purchase a teething ring, because teething rings can be very useful to help your baby get through some of the pain. If you choose to use a liquid filled teething ring, be sure that you cool it off in the refrigerator, NEVER do it in the freezer. A frozen teething ring can shock your baby by being too cold and hard and it will definitely hurt more than it soothes. There are many different types of teething rings available. There are hard plastic rings with different bumps that are wonderful for your baby to bite down on. Biting provides temporary pain relief to your baby and  your baby will want to bite down on something very often.

Popsicles and Other Cold Treats

You might want to give your toddler a popsicle or other frozen treat. This is a great way to help numb their pain and they will enjoy it. Like teething rings, your baby will feel soothed by the coldness of the treat. It will also taste great and that in itself with help ease the pain. However, please remember that you should limit your baby’s sugar intake in the first year. Try to find natural fruit popsicles or other naturally sweet treats with no sugar added. Stay away from popsicles that have chunks of fruit in them until your baby has enough teeth to chew them properly.

How NOT to Handle Teething

Do not ever  go along with anyone’s advice to give your baby alcohol. Whiskey or any other type of alcohol is NOT a good solution for your baby’s pain. In fact, because your baby is so small, even a small amount of alcohol can do a lot of harm to your baby. Try one of the previously mentioned methods for easing your baby’s pain, but never resort to alcohol or anything else that might hurt your baby.

Teach Your Toddler How to Swim!

Play on the Steps

Start by taking your child by the hand and taking them to  the steps in the pool. Get them to sit down and play, maybe with a toy.  This helps your toddler to get accustomed to the water  and explore the entire step area.

Blow Bubbles

Show your child you are  taking a deep breath and blow bubbles, then ask them if  they can blow bubbles. They might need some encouragement and be patient. Some kids don’t like putting their  face near the water and it can be very scary for them.

Practice Kicking

Sit down on the top step with the toddler and show them  how to kick. Be sure to kick with a relatively  straight leg and bend your knees only slightly. You can also use  verbal cues like “kick, kick, kick”.

Picking up Toys from Steps

The goal here is to get an object from underwater. This helps prepare them to eventually put their face underwater.  Using a toy that sinks is a good idea, but remember, it’s about the goal of getting the submerged object that is important  to the child.

Riding on your Shoulders

By etting your children ride on your shoulders you are helping them to prepare to learn how to glide. This helps to provide a break for your toddler, because most of them enjoy it. Be sure to  hold them and talk reassuringly to them as you pull them through chest-deep water.

Practice Going Underwater

This works well by using the 1-2-3 countdown.  Get them to take a deep breath  and close their mouths, then lift them up and make your motions smooth. Be sure not to startle them or get water up their nose.  Tell the toddler that their fingers are  wipers and they should wipe away water rather than rub it.

Holding the Wall and Getting Back to the Steps

This exercise lets the child know that there is a safe place to go in case they  accidently fall in. Get them to hold onto the wall away form the steps  and place your hands on top of theirs to show them how to crawl  hand-over-hand back to the steps.

Getting Their Face Wet

This exercise should be done after you show the child how to retrieve the toy/object from the steps.  It teaches them how to take deep breaths by closing their mouths and  opening their eyes underwater. This is an excercise where you must be especially patient. This is can be the hardest things for toddlers to learn  how to do and it’s very scary. Be sure not to push or be impatient, because this only  frustrates the child and makes an already skill even harder.

Back Float

This is another difficult exercise, so be patient. One way that you can make this a little less scary is to try to make it fun. Pretend like they are going to be “Sleeping Beauty” like in the Disney story.  Tell the toddler to use your shoulder as a pillow and support their body.  Talk to them and reassure them that you have them and that it is okay. Get  them to take a deep breath and hold it. This will help them feel buoyant.  Move the child down so that their head is resting on your arm while  still supporting their head. Ask them to move their arms above their head and then hold onto your fingers. The child’s toes should be poking through  the surface of the water and with their head tilted back.

Off the Side

The object of this experience is to create a forward motion and overcome  the fear of falling in.  Ask the child sit on the wall with feet in the  water and you stand in waist-deep water. Hold your toddler under the arms while keeping your arms stiff and straight. Raise the toddler up and gently  lower them into the water while moving backward. When the child reaches your hands, pick them up and show them how far they went and then praise them for it.