As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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There is nothing more fun than to cruise around the neighborhood in a brand new shiny Jeep!!! That goes for kids too! When the weather is nice and the kids need to be outside and not indoors with constant video gaming or TV watching, the Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler is the way to go!! It will keep them entertained for hours and get them out of the house to play.
Why children need outdoor play
There are many benefits to being outdoors for all of us and children are no exception. Our bodies require the sun light in order to make vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a huge role from bone development to the immune system. Children especially need this as they are in the process of growing.
Exercise is another reason our kids should go outdoors. When your child goes outdoors, it is more likely that he will run and play. It is good for him or her to get at least an hour of outdoor activity. Nothing beats being outside with the sunshine and fresh air along with running, playing and seeing friends.
Being outdoors and seeing friends encourages socialization skills that we all need as adults. When children play outside and meet with friends, it allows them to be a part of a group and teaches them to share and how to cooperate with others.
Outdoor play toys
Getting your kids to play outside can sometimes be a challenge. But if you keep encouraging them, it will be a lot easier. I know that now-a-days, most kids have electronic games and prefer to stay indoors to play them. There is nothing wrong with them playing those types of games, but they need to have a time limit on them.
One of the ways you can get your child’s interest up in going outside is to have a toy that is just calling his or her name…..the Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler!
What’s so great about the Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler?
Well, first of all I want to say that this is a perfect little “ride on” toy for your 3 to 7-year-old child. Let me explain.
First of all, it is a 2 seater so your child can ride with a friend. Second, it has forward up to 5 mph (8 km/h) and reverse up to 2.5 mph (4 km/h), and drives like a “real” Jeep.
This Jeep has doors that open and close.
The Jeep is easy to operate and kids learn very quickly how to drive it!
The dashboard has a horn and a radio.
Oh my goodness, I could go on and on! I have to tell you that when my two oldest boys were little, they had one of these. It was the best couple hundred dollars I ever spent!! They rode together on this for hours and had so much fun!
I am just so happy to see that these little Jeeps are still being made!!
So, more about the Jeep. It has wheels that can go either on pavement or the grass. This little Jeep will hold 130 pounds, so if you weigh that or under, you can take this little gem out for a spin when your little guy or gal is sleeping!! HaHa. I used to do it all the time. I am not sure who had more fun with this, me or them!!!
Assembly
This little Jeep will have to be assembled when it arrives, but putting this together is not difficult. Definitely pay attention to the instructions and you should not have any problems.
Word of caution: If this is being purchased as a gift, do not assemble it before giving it unless you have a truck and a way to transport it. It is good size. The dimensions are: 47 x 30.5 x 33 inches.
The Jeep comes with a 12V battery and needs to be charged for 18 hours right out of the box. If you do that, this battery will work very well and can last for around 4 hours at a time. Make sure, however, that you do not “overcharge” it or you could ruin the battery.
Lockout option
When your child is first learning how to drive this little jeep, there is a lock-out option feature that allows you to “cap” what speed your child can go. As he or she gets better at driving this, you can re-adjust to let your child go faster. It will go up to 5 miles per hour in forward and 2.5 miles per hour in reverse.
A style for everyone
I am so pleased to say that this little Jeep comes in Disney Princess, Hot Wheels Blue, Toy Story 4, Barbie, and Red. I will show them below and I have attached the link for you to purchase.
All in all, this Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler is one of the best gifts you can get your child for outdoor play and you can let them drive ahead of you on long walks in the neighborhood. You and your child are sure to get compliments on this and you will all enjoy being outside!!!
Questions or comments?
Please leave your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will answer you in no time at all!
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Every baby is born a unique individual and with that uniqueness includes all stages of development. Teething is one of those stages. Along with teething comes an easily irritable baby. Babies often cry and fuss and are sometimes inconsolable. So what do we do about this and how do we soothe a baby’s teething pain? Along with other remedies for soothing sore gums, I will answer the question “what’s Sophie La Girafe?”
Signs of teething
The age at which our baby will start to teethe can range anywhere from 3 months to about 6 months of age. I say this because there are some babies who actually start this process as early as age 3 months! However, generally speaking most babies will start to teethe by around 6 months of age.
When you see these signs, you will want to be prepared with different measures to soothe your baby. These signs are:
Excessive amount of drooling
Chewing on fists or any other objects
Irritability and crankiness
Slight increase in temperature
Call your doctor if your baby has swollen, puffy, bleeding gums and/or if his face is swollen or swelling up. Never make any assumptions about anything, call your baby’s doctor right away.
Soothing your baby
There are a few things you can do to soothe your baby from the effects of teething. If your baby has a slight temperature, call your baby’s doctor to ask about giving infant Tylenol drops to reduce the pain and discomfort. Your doctor will tell you the correct dose, do not try to figure out the dose yourself.
You can use your finger or a clean, cold washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gums. Please make sure you wash your hands well before placing your finger in her mouth. You do not want to introduce germs into your baby’s mouth.
A toy for teething
Meet Sophie La Girafe! Sophie is hand-made in France of 100% natural rubber and hand-painted with food-grade dye.
The rubber used comes from the Hevea trees growing in Malaysia. The trees produce a liquid known as “latex.” It is natural, soft, elastic, waterproof, insulating, and pleasant to the smell and touch.
Sophie is the first teething ring made from 100% natural rubber.
Sophie has 2 different rings each with a different texture to soothe your baby’s gums. It is designed so that your baby can hold it himself.
Some drawbacks
It has been noted that Sophie’s paint has come off while the baby chews or bites on the head. However, the manufacturer of Sophie has indicated that the paint is food-grade and so is non-toxic.
What “not” to give your baby for teething
I think it is important to note that there are certain items you would not want to give your baby for teething relief. One of those items are over-the-counter teething gels and/or tablets. Some of those “home remedies” have been found to have dangerous levels of an ingredient called “belladonna” which can cause seizures and difficulty breathing.
Another type of medication you should never give your child are teething medications that contain benzocaine or lidocaine. These pain relievers can be both harmful and even “fatal” to your baby.
Word of caution – never give your baby anything until you consult your baby’s doctor!
Teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets are also on the list of what you should never give your baby while teething. Many of these contain “beads” and can come off and be a choking hazard to your baby. They also pose a threat for strangulation, mouth injury, and infection.
Here is a neat little gift set for any baby who is actively teething. He will love this classic little Sophie who’s been around for 55 years!
The Sophie the Giraffe toy (the original teether) and teething ring is made just like the Sophie above and also note that it is BPA-free.
My final thoughts
It is never easy taking care of your baby when he is obviously having discomfort and pain. As a parent, you feel your little one’s pain and you want to do whatever you can to make them feel better.
I recommend that you follow the guidelines above to make your baby as comfortable as possible. Always remember, when in doubt about something regarding your baby and how to treat her, call your baby’s doctor for advice!
Having a Sophie La Girafe original teether is a great teething toy to have for your little one and it is safe for her to use.
Questions or comments?
Please leave your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Sometime around 1 1/2 to 2 years of age, your toddler will be trying to climb out of his crib. This is the time you are going to have to make a decision to transition him from a crib to a bed. What you don’t want to do is to put him in a regular full size bed. He definitely will not be ready for that just yet. The best way to transition him to a bed is to use a toddler bed. You might ask, “what is a toddler bed?” and that is what I will explain to you here and I will give you some ideas to meet that need. So, here goes!
The signs of readiness for a bed
The signs that your little guy or gal is ready for the transition to a “big boy or big girl bed” are as follows:
Attempting to climb out of the crib (the biggest sign)
Your little one is potty training
The crib is too small (your toddler has outgrown it)
Making the move to a toddler bed
Before starting the transition you want to consider the bed. A toddler bed should be low to the ground and have a bedside rail. When you set it up, make a big deal out of it to your little one. Get him or her excited about this new “big girl/big boy” bed.
For the bedding, it’s a great idea to pick their favorite cartoon characters or movie characters for the sheets, pillow cases and comforter. They will love it!
Keep your bed times consistent as well as all other routines like bath time or story time. The only change should be their new bed.
Also, make sure your little one has his favorite teddy bear or other favorite stuffed animal with him at bed time.
The floor around the bed
If the floor is a wood floor, put something down to provide cushion in case your toddler falls out of bed. You can use something like a comforter or a couple of blankets folded up and placed beside the bed.
Guard rails
Guard rails are a very good idea even if you have carpeting or padded the floor. Children of this age can be very restless sleepers and so it is a good idea to have these guard rails. If your bed does not have them, you can purchase them and install yourself.
Safety during the night
Before you start using the toddler bed, go around your house as you did when your little first began to be mobile. Look at everything to see if it is “toddler proof.”
Are there any book shelves that can be tipped over? What about the dressers, are they secured against the wall? Bathrooms pose a safety hazard because of all the obvious – shaving razors, shampoo, soap, mouth wash etc. Put all these items out of reach or secure with a cabinet lock. I have an article I posted called “A Baby Gate and Babyproofing Your Home” and I have some recommendations on what to buy to babyproof your house.
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008
When you purchase a toddler bed you want to make sure it meets all of the safety standards set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). These standards are as follows:
The surface coat of paint on the bed must not contain more than 90 ppm (0.009 percent) lead.
The lead content limit must not contain greater than 100 ppm (0.01 percent) of total lead content in any accessible part of the bed.
There are 8 phthalates (substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity) that the CPSIA has set limits to not contain more than 0.1 percent .
Testing and certification – toddler beds must be tested by an accredited third party laboratory accepted by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) for compliance with the toddler beds standard and all other applicable children’s product safety rules, including the lead paint, lead content, and phthalate content limits.
Product and outer package labeling requirements – toddler beds must be marked with specific labeling information. This includes a tracking label, product registration card.
The Dream On Me Austin Toddler Day Bed is a toddler bed that meets all of the safety standards as mentioned above and is a perfect choice for that transition bed.
It is made of pinewood and the paint used meets and exceeds the CPSC standards. Only eco-friendly, child-safe water-based paints are used on this bed.
The Austin is low to the floor and comes with a guard rail so you won’t have to purchase it separately.
This bed has a wooden support mattress rail so you will not need a box spring mattress.
The toddler bed uses a crib-sized mattress and I recommend the Dream On Me non-toxic, Greenguard certified standard crib mattress.
Five different colors to choose from
The Austin comes in 5 different colors/finishes and they are:
Pebble grey (pictured above)
Blush pink
Espresso
Black
White
The Austin specifications
54 L x 30 W x 29 H inches.
The dimensions of the safety rail are 22 1/4 x 8 3/4 inches.
Purchase your Dream On Me Austin Toddler Day Bed here!
Additional note for the mattress above. This mattress comes with a mattress cover so there is no need to purchase a cover separately.
Additional information
If your child is not quite ready for a toddler bed, I have written about a 3-in-1 convertible crib in a prior post. This convertible crib can be used as a crib, then to a toddler bed and then to a day bed. If you would like to read more about it and take a look at it, click here and you can check it out.
My final thoughts
I hope you found this article to be of good help to you in making your decision to transfer your toddler to a bed. It can be a very exciting time for your little one and yet a bittersweet experience for you as the parent. Your little guy or gal is growing up! It is hard to let go of each stage and I totally get it! We all want to keep our babies little, but yet we are proud of each step/milestone they make in their lives.
Questions or comments?
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them for me in the comment section below. I would love to hear from you!
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Play is an important part in the care of a special needs child. When a child plays, it helps her to understand the world around her, it helps her to learn how to interact with others and it promotes growth and development. Toys play a huge role in this realm of play and choosing the right toys will reinforce all that the child learns from caregivers and health providers. For this blog I will focus on toys for autistic kids and why it is vital to their health and development.
The 5 senses and the autistic child
Children with autism have difficulties with both verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction and play activities. This is because the part of their brain that processes sight, hearing, tasting, smelling and touch (the 5 senses) has been affected and has caused “a neurological disorder.”
These 5 senses that we all have, are necessary in helping us to understand, explore and experience things in our world. Children who are autistic cannot use these senses the same way and so it changes their way of reaction, communication and assessment of the world around and how they interact with everything.
Therapy includes sensory toys
An important part of therapy for the child with autism is speech-language therapy. There are devices that therapists use to help with communication and socialization skills and those devices are usually called “communication boards or speech-generator devices.” You can find out more about these communication devices in my article titled Children and Asperger’s Syndrome. It is so important to help the child with autism communicate because they, like everyone else, need to be able to express their emotions, needs and wants. It is when they are unable to do this, they will end up having a meltdown.
Therapists will work with you to show you how to help your child with the communication device so that you can continue working with your child at home. Repetition is the key to learning and that goes for everyone.
Another very important part of therapy is play! Sensory toys are one of the best ways to help your child calm down and focus on one particular thing and it helps to build nerve connections in the brain.
Sensory toys
So what are sensory toys? Sensory toys are designed to target stimulation of the 5 senses: taste, touch, sight, hearing, and smell. These toys are usually made with bright colors and have different sounds and textures.
You know your child best, so choose toys that you know he or she will be interested in and what will hold his or her attention. Sensory toys not only calm your child but with them, your child is learning how to think, how to problem solve, how to share, how to get along and interact with others.
Kids 6 years old and up
For children 6 years and up, there is a great game called Brain Games by Skillmatics (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases).
Brain Games consists of 12 highly engaging and repeatable activities which build core skills through learning. The set has 6 double-sided activity mats, an erase marker pen, duster cloth, and an achievement certificate. This game set teaches key skills of strategizing, problem-solving, social and communications skills, observation, and concentration. Your child with achieve through play, solving equations, decoding patterns, mental maths, trial and error.
For kids 3 to 6 years old
For children 3 to 6 years old, Skillmatics Boredom Buster (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) consists of 6 double-sided activity mats, dry erase marker, duster cloth, achievement certificate and makes a great sensory toy for your young child.
This set also has 12 repeatable activities which teach logical reasoning, creative thinking, writing, focus and attention, and observation. Your child is going to have fun while learning key concepts. It is perfect for kids to bond with their friends and family.
The Squigz toys are suction construction toys that stick to each other and nearly any flat surface. They pull apart with a pop.
There are a variety of shapes and colors, regular and mini-sized and there are 75 pieces in this set. This will stimulate your child’s imagination, interaction and aids in the development of motor skills, hand-eye coordination, visual thinking and concentration.
For kids 5 years old and up
Nothing beats a Classic set of LEGOs for stimulating creativity. (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases).
The classic 450 piece building kit includes a colorful selection of LEGO bricks and pieces including eyes, wheels, hinges and a wide assortment of LEGO windows and doors.
For toddlers 12 to 36 months
ANIMAL ISLAND AILA Sit & Play Plus Preschool Learning and Reading System is a high-quality educational sit and play virtual early preschool learning system. This looks like a miniature computer for toddlers. The educational content is developed by teachers and innovators that adapts to each child’s learning style.
This learning system teaches songs, stories, communications, collaboration, art, problem solving, literacy and numbers.
It uses animal friends to say hello, sing, read, dance, stop and talk and play games.
Animal Island Learning Adventure (AILA) has an “AILA Parent App” for you to adjust and monitor session time and device settings; rate your child’s session; parent dashboard; check in on your little one while AILA Sit & Play is in use; and here is a really cool feature – you can send pictures or videos from your smartphone directly to the AILA Sit & Play and Mister Goose delivers your pictures and videos as mail to your child. How cool is that?
Final thoughts
There are so many high quality and great sensory toys and games for every child. I have only listed a few above and in future articles, I will be recommending more for you to check out. Just click on the links above for each toy and you can find out more about them and go ahead and purchase them too.
Each of the toys listed above are considered sensory toys and will stimulate growth and development for your child as well as bring a sense of calm and contentment.
Questions or comments?
Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Thanks!
As the owner of this website, I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Becoming a new mom is one of the greatest joys in life. There are many things to do in preparation for this big event and planning for this life change should be first and foremost. So, along with making a list of baby items you will need and planning a baby shower, you need to start thinking about how you will feed your new little bundle of joy. Do you plan on breastfeeding? I recommend that you consider breastfeeding as it is the optimal way to feed your baby. Let me introduce you to the Willow Wearable Breast Pump (Generation 3). The greatest invention for a breast pump there is for busy moms!
The Willow is a breast pump that fits right inside your bra and runs quietly. You can pump anywhere at any time and no one else will have a clue that you are pumping milk. This is ideal for working moms as they do not have to worry about finding a closet or a private room where they would have to set up a conventional breast pump. And, don’t forget the electrical outlets that a private room would have to have.
There are countless women who use and love the Willow. It has been a game-changer for them.
The Willow breast pump is the first-ever, in-bra wearable pump established in January 2018. It is a patented, no-spill breast pump that lets you pump fully hands-free. You can pump into spill-proof bags or containers.
The breast pump comes with 24 bags, however, the re-usable containers are sold separately.
The price vs the benefits
There are a lot of people who would argue that this breast pump is just too expensive. Well, I would say do not let the price alone detract you from taking a closer look at this. It is without a doubt that this breast pump has been the greatest thing outside of sliced bread for many women.
If you are a working mother, then this one’s for you! When you consider all that is involved in pumping your milk, and you have to be at work with minimal disruptions and you simply do not have that extra time to go and try to find a discreet place to take care of your business, you will be so glad you made the investment. That alone is worth the cost.
Spill-proof milk bags or reusable containers
This wearable pump gives you the option to either use disposable milk bags or you can use reusable containers. It’s a nice option to have if you don’t want to have something extra to clean. You do not have to worry that either the milk bags or containers will leak – they will not.
The bags hold 4 ounces of milk, so a total of 8 ounces (4 ounces per breast).
The containers also hold 4 ounces of milk for each breast. They are BPA-free, dishwasher safe, compatible with Willow Generation 2 and 3 only and you need to replace them every 3 months.
It is interesting to note that you can actually pump your milk whether you are lying down, exercising, bending over, and just about anything else you can think of. Just make sure you follow directions and get the correct size and use the step-by-step instructions that the company gives you. If you do these things, you should be all set!
Getting the right size
Before you decide to purchase the Willow, you need to measure your nipple. To do this, you can download a ruler app on your phone. use “Ruler 2.0” for iOS or “Millimeter” for Android. In the iOS app, set measurement to “mm” and for Android, select default calibration.
Next, stimulate the nipple so it is erect. Then take the ruler on your phone and place it under the nipple so that one end of the nipple base is at “0.” Then slide the measurement bar on the screen to the other end of the nipple base and that is your measurement.
This measurement is called the flange size and you want to use a flange that’s 2-4 mm larger than your nipple measurement.
Size chart
The flange size chart is as follows:
Nipple Measurement Willow size
17 – 19 mm => 21 mm
20 – 22 mm => 24 mm
23 – 25 mm => 27 mm
Use a flange that’s 2-4 mm larger than your nipple measurement.
Of note, this pump works for all breast sizes all the way through G and H bra cups. You will want to wear this
pump with a full-size nursing bra that has flaps. Avoid underwired and padded bras.
Get the app
The Willow Generation 3 works with an app that not only gives you step-by-step instructions, but gives you personalized pumping tips. The new app for Generation 3 offers fast, easy pairing, step-by-step onboarding, and personalized tips.
The Generation 3 means that the Willow has been improved for softer and faster pumping for more milk. It gives you more comfort and more control. There are 7 levels of suction comparable to most traditional double electric and hospital grade pumps, with two new lower suction levels and a new sensitivity setting
The app will automatically track sessions and milk volume.
The battery will last you through 5 pumping sessions which would be for all day.
Covered by insurance?
Call your health insurance company to find out if you can get partial or full reimbursement. Some women have been able to get some or all of the Willow covered – it just depends on your insurance.
Any cons?
The cons to this breast pump is that if you get the wrong size, it will not work well for you. You must measure your flange as explained above before you purchase it. If you follow the directions, you should be good. Again, this comes in 3 different sizes and will accommodate breast sizes up to an H-cup.
My conclusion
There is no doubt about it that this is the way to go if you are a working mom or a mom with a busy schedule and you want to breastfeed your baby. This is such a convenient and productive way to express your milk no matter where you have to be or what you have to do.
I do have another article on breastfeeding detailing how to hold your baby and a review for a hospital-grade breast pump if you decide you do not need the wearable kind of pump and have time to use a standard breast pump.
Questions or comments?
I am hoping you found this information helpful and if you have any questions or comments, I encourage you to leave them in the comment section below.
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Asperger’s Syndrome used to have a classification and diagnosis of its own. But in recent years it has been determined that it actually belongs under the classification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Asperger’s syndrome is a very complex disorder and every individual who has it may be very different from another. I want to give you a general idea about children and Asperger’s Syndrome and recommend a communication device to help with your child’s ability to communicate with others and improve his or her socialization skills.
Please note that this article is in no way to be taken as medical advice nor for diagnosing purposes. If you suspect your child may have Asperger’s Syndrome, take him or her to your doctor for evaluation and further direction.
A type of autism
Asperger’s syndrome has been studied by mental health experts and they have discovered that this disorder actually shares a lot of the same characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. So, they have classified it under autism as autism is made up of a group of mental health issues.
Some common symptoms of Asperger’s
The symptoms of this syndrome can start early in life, later childhood or early adulthood. For the people who are not diagnosed until later childhood or early adulthood, they are usually high-functioning and have very high IQ’s.
The more severe forms of Asperger’s are neurodevelopmental (impairments in the nervous system functioning that affect behavior, cognition, or motor skills) disorders and are usually present from infancy to early childhood. These children do not reach milestones as other children do because of an impairment in their cognitive skills (thinking, reasoning, or remembering), behavior and motor skills.
One of the most common signals seen is a child will not make eye contact. He or she will not show emotions and will speak in a monotone type of voice.
The children with this disorder can be very repetitive either in their speech or in their actions. They will do something over and over again. Also, this child will speak about 1 particular item and talk over and over again about it.
A child with Asperger’s will most likely have problems with socializing and with communication.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome can be tricky as this disorder is very complicated and has many variables. There is no standardized test for this and many times a child will go undiagnosed until adulthood. This is because there are several screening devices in current use, each with different criteria, the same child could receive different diagnoses, depending on the tool the doctor selects.
If your child is suspected to have Asperger’s, your doctor will call in a mental health specialist team such as a psychologist, pediatric neurologist, developmental pediatrician and a psychiatrist. Because diagnosis is very complicated, having these health care professionals working together as a team is the best course of action to take.
How do we help a child with social and speech skills?
Every child who has Asperger’s is unique and treatment of each child will vary. For the most part, each one will need help with social skills and communication skills. Let’s take a look at help for social skills first and then communication assistance.
Social skills are usually taught by a therapist either one-on-one, in a group or both. Children will learn how to interact with others and express themselves appropriately. The child will learn best by observing and copying good behavior from you the parent and others in their circle of trust.
The therapist will involve the parents to teach them what social skills were taught to their child so they can continue the methods at home. In addition, many families of children with Asperger’s will see a counselor to help them deal with the challenges of living with someone with Asperger’s.
Speech-language therapy is another area of treatment. This will improve a child’s communication skills which in turn improves social skills. Speech therapy for the child with Asperger’s will be different from speech therapy for others. This is because a child with this syndrome has already developed speech, and it is different. So the speech therapy for children affected with Asperger’s will focus more on communication.
Communication device
Many speech therapists will use what we call an AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) device to help a child with Asperger’s communicate. These devices use a combination of pictures, written words, and spoken language. The therapist will show the parent how to use these devices as well as the child.
Not being able to communicate would cause anyone to become stressed and upset. Now think of a child with Asperger’s if he or she cannot communicate what they feel or need or want. It is no wonder that that child would begin to “act out” and be really upset. This is where the AAC device can completely change this scenario.
The AbleNet SuperTalker FT Progressive Communicator is an AAC and is a great communicative assistive device. This SuperTalker is customizable to meet your child’s needs. It has a surface that is very sensitive to touch and will detect the lightest of touches.
There are eight recording levels that give you the ability to record up to 64 unique messages. The SuperTalker is switch accessible which means you can connect one switch to each message location for direct message playback or use one switch to step through each message location in sequence.
Free app
The AbleNet SuperTalker FT Progressive Communicator comes with a free app:
AbleNet Symbol Overlay Maker (app requires an iPad with iPad OS 13 or newer).
You can quickly and easily create printable picture symbol overlays for your device with the free app which allows you to really customize this device.
The SuperTalker FT requires 4 AA batteries (not included).
I have worked with many children who had autism and Asperger’s and I would say these kids just need all your love and attention and don’t forget patience! You will see how far lots of love and patience will take you both!
I truly hope you found this information of great help and that you take advantage of this great communication device for your child. It will make a world of difference in both your lives!
Questions or comments?
Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can!
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Creating a beautiful baby nursery involves many details. Usually, a theme is picked first, then what color you want to paint the walls. Next, you want to pick out your crib (Babyletto Hudson Convertible Crib), changing table, dresser, nightstand, and lamp. There are, of course, other items as well. Things like white noise machines, lullaby songs, diaper pail, hamper, rocking chair, and don’t forget the window treatments.
It sure sounds like a lot, doesn’t it? But for now, I want to tell you about a beautiful crib that comes in white. It will match whatever theme you choose and it is a perfect piece that will serve you well. It is the Babyletto Hudson 3 In 1 Convertible Crib.
Safe for baby
The Babyletto Hudson 3 In 1 Convertible Crib meets the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (U.S. CPSC) safety standards and the ASTM International standards in all areas where safety is a concern.
This crib is made from pine wood and is stained and painted with non-toxic materials which meet the required safety standards. The slats are no more than 23/8 inches (6 cm) apart so your baby’s head cannot get trapped in between them.
Additional information regarding safety is that this crib is Greenguard Gold Certified. The Greenguard Gold Certification ensures the interior products are low in chemical emissions, decreasing indoor pollution levels. Greenguard Gold Certified products emit minimal gases. They maintain healthy indoor air quality, by reducing our chemical exposure.
Another big safety feature is the adjustable height. This crib has 4 adjustable positions to accommodate your baby at every stage of growth. Also, I want to mention that this crib has a low profile design. This is great for those of us who are not very tall and helps us to get the baby out of the crib a little bit easier. The crib dimensions are 53.50 x 29.75 x 35.00 inches (height). Just so you can compare the difference in height, other cribs stand about 42 to 45 inches in height.
Before your baby can sit up, you can keep the mattress level to where your little one is just below the top of the rail or highest position. However, as your baby grows and starts to sit up, you need to lower the mattress. Set the mattress at the lowest position before he starts to stand.
When your child is 35 inches (89 cm) tall or when the top of the side rail of the crib is at chest level with the mattress in the lowest position, it is time to convert the crib to the toddler bed.
Toddler bed
The Hudson converts from crib to toddler bed and comes with a kit to do so. One side of the crib comes off and is replaced with the toddler rail. This is perfect for when your child starts showing signs that he is trying to climb out of the crib. When you see that, get the kit out that came with the crib and convert it over to the toddler bed. Do not hesitate on that, too many accidents have happened from kids climbing over the rail.
Daybed
This amazing crib can be used for baby, toddler and child! Not only does it convert to a toddler bed, but it converts to a daybed as well. To do this, remove one side rail and there you have it! It is beautiful as well and will be suitable for your needs for many years to come.
Being able to convert this crib saves money on purchases of toddler bed and youth bed (daybed). This fact alone makes the Hudson worth its weight in gold!
Modern Design
The Babyletto Hudson 3 In 1 Convertible Crib has a modern design and will look stunning in any nursery. The Hudson is known for its “turned-out foot” and rounded spindle design. Not only does it come in white, but other colors as well. It comes in a modern grey, natural, or a new take on family-friendly white/espresso two-tone.
The Hudson takes a standard full-size crib mattress at least 51.625 x 27.25 inches and no more than 6 inches thick. You will have to buy the mattress separately as it does not come with the crib.
This mattress is made out of firm foam and is best for the baby. The mattress core is made of high-quality, breathable foam to maximize airflow.
The size of this mattress is length (52 inches) x width (27.6 inches) x height (up to 5 inches) and weighs 7 pounds. Foam is made of polyurethane.
3 in 1 convertibility
This Hudson crib is Amazon’s choice and is rated by Amazon customers a 4.8 out of 5! This is a very well-loved 3 in 1 convertible crib. You just can’t beat the price for all it offers. You get a beautiful adjustable crib, toddler bed, and daybed at a fraction of the cost if you were to buy these pieces separately.
Cons
The only con I see for this is that it will require 2 people to put it together. The good news though, is that it is easy to assemble.
My final thoughts
I really hoped this review was informational and helpful to you in purchasing your new crib. My opinion on this set is that while it is not the high-end of cribs, it is the safest and most eye-appealing crib I have seen. It will look absolutely gorgeous in whatever decor your baby nursery has and it will allow your baby to have not only a safe sleep but a sweet one! That includes you!!
I recommend that you check this 3 in 1 one crib out here and purchase it now while in stock.
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Getting your baby to sleep can be quite a challenge at times. There are a hundred different reasons that could cause a baby to fuss and cry and we as parents must figure it out to solve the problem. After you’ve run through the mental checklist of the possible causes such as hunger, gas, diaper or anything else, then you know that maybe the baby just needs to be held and rocked to sleep. Keeping the baby asleep is just as important and so here is where this great little machine for white noise for baby comes in to play.
Newborn sleep
Typically, newborns sleep about 16 hours per day. However, they usually wake about every 2 hours for breast feeding or about every 4 hours for bottle feeding. That sounds like a lot of sleep, but when it comes to newborns, they need it. Babies are growing very rapidly during the first year of life and they need every minute of sleep they can get.
Importance of sleep the first year
Sleep is of the utmost importance for your newborn and is required for your baby’s overall development. Babies with double their birth weight by around 5 months of age. They will triple it by about 12 months of age or 1 year. This is a lot of growth in a short amount of time and good sleep plays an important role in this.
Brain development
Your baby’s brain will double in size by around 1 year of age. They develop rapidly and a lot of the learning is taking place while they sleep! There have been studies which show that there is a connection between normal sleep development and higher developmental scores.
Memory
Sleep is important for the process of memory consolidation (the brain encounters something, the brain develops pathways that can be used to access a memory). This will happen over weeks and months as the brain is developing and creating these pathways. This is true for adults and older children as well as the newborn to 3-month old baby.
Immune system
Sleep is important for our immune system, no matter what our age. It is especially important for babies. Their immune systems are still immature and not as strong as an adult. It takes time to develop and sleep is a necessary part for this to occur. If the baby is sleep deprived, he or she is more likely to get a disease or infection and it an affect the baby’s ability to get better or recover.
Getting the baby to sleep
Newborn to 3-months of age is a time period where your baby will not be likely to have a regular sleep pattern. There are of course, exceptions to the rule. However, you as the parent should work towards establishing a “routine” for your baby. This is a must if you are going to get any sleep and is just as important for you as is for the baby. When the baby does sleep, that’s your chance to get some shut eye too. Take your opportunities!
I want to offer some suggestions on how to start establishing that routine and create an environment that is conducive for sleep. First, I want to say that until around 5 months of age, your baby will most likely not sleep through the night. Some babies will sleep through the night, but that is an exception.
Consistency
When your baby starts to sleep through the night, you will want to establish a bed time. Every evening at the same time, get your baby ready for bed. Have a routine for which nights are bath nights and then every night should be story time before the lights go out. No matter what your routine will be, be consistent with it every single day.
Cozy nursery
Make your nursery just as cozy as it can be. Hang teddy bears from the ceiling, have a dimly lit lamp and a rocking chair (especially helpful for rocking your little one). The room temperature should be around 70 to 72 degrees fahrenheit (21.1 to 22.2 degrees Celsius).
Make baby comfortable
Always check to see if your baby is dressed comfortably. A good rule of thumb is if you are over dressed and warm, then baby is too. If you would not put a heavy sweater on, then don’t put your baby in a sweater or sweatshirt like clothing. Feel the back of your baby’s neck and if it is warm and sweaty, then he is over dressed. Put lighter clothes on him. He will sleep so much better and so will you!
Soothing and quiet atmosphere
One of the most important things you can do to help get your baby to sleep is to create a soothing and quiet atmosphere. I have found a great way to accomplish this, even in the noisiest of times. First thing to do is to keep the lighting soft and dim as you do not want bight lights around your baby before bed time. This will help him learn the difference between day and night. Even for those “during the night feedings” keep those lights dim.
Creating that soothing and quiet atmosphere also includes soft music or lullabies and a white noise machine. I want to point out that you should only use a white noise machine for either naps or bed time. Your baby will know and recognize the sound and relate it to sleep time.
White noise
The Hatch Rest Sound Machine is a white noise machine that also has a night light and a “time to wake” feature for when your child is older. You can set the controls from your smartphone and adjust or customize the light, sound, and volume levels so you won’t have to enter the room and disrupt your little one.
Here is another great option for you to get. It is the Skip Hop Baby Sound Machine: Moonlight & Melodies Nightlight Soother, Owl. This is also a beautifully dimmed night light and plays 4 lullabies and has 4 nature sounds. It has a star and moon ceiling projection and a glowing night light belly with dimmer.
Whatever method you decide to use, be it white noise or lullabies, I know you will be pleased with either of these products. I personally use the white noise machine for my grandson when it is time for his naps. It is amazing to see how he correlates the white noise with nap time! It works like a charm!!
Questions or comments?
Please leave your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Of all the food allergies in children, cow’s milk is the most common. There is a lot of protein in cow’s milk and that plays a key role when it comes to milk allergy and children. Also, there is a difference between a true milk allergy and a milk intolerance. I will explain a little about this as well as treatment ideas. In this article I will explain what causes a milk allergy, the classic signs and symptoms of a milk allergy, how prevention is best and substitutions for milk that you can use for your child.
What causes a milk allergy?
Cow’s milk is a nutrient rich liquid-food. So you might ask then, how is it that a child can be allergic to milk? Of all the nutrients in milk, protein makes up about 3.5%. The protein is made up of casein and whey. Casein is the part of protein that forms a large, insoluble curd that is harder to digest than the curd from whey which is very soft.
The body’s immune system recognizes and may react to the protein in cow’s milk making it one of the most common allergens. Allergies develop in approximately 2% to 7% of infants fed with cow’s milk formula.
So, in essence, a milk allergy is caused by an abnormal response to the body’s immune system reacting to the casein protein.
Signs and symptoms
First and foremost I want to say that signs and symptoms will differ from child to child and may occur anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours after your child drinks milk or eats a milk product.
Immediate signs and symptoms may include:
Hives
Wheezing
Itching or tingling feeling around the mouth
Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
Coughing or shortness of breath
Vomiting
Signs that may take a few hours to develop may include:
Diarrhea or loose stools (blood may be in stool)
Stomach cramps
Runny nose
Watery eyes
Colic (infant or baby)
When should my child see a doctor?
If you notice that after your child consumes any milk or milk products (cheese, yogurt, butter, cream, ice cream, condensed milk, buttermilk, whey, ghee, and skim milk), he starts having any of the above signs and symptoms, call your child’s doctor (pediatrician) right away and have him seen. Your doctor will know how to evaluate him and most likely give you a list of foods to avoid along with an EpiPen for emergency purposes.
What is an EpiPen?
An EpiPen is a medication used in very serious allergic reactions. It acts quickly to reduce the swelling in the eyes, nose and throat which in turn improves breathing, heart rate and it brings blood pressure to an acceptable level.
EpiPen is a prescription drug and will be prescribed by your doctor.
Epinephrine is a chemical that our bodies naturally have to reduce swelling, improve heart function and improve blood pressure. That is the chemical that is used in the “EpiPen” and is an injection. It is important that you keep this with you at all times as you never know when a mishap will occur.
There are side effects from the EpiPen and they include pale skin, sweating, headache, dizziness, anxiety and nausea. Your child may or may not experience these side effects, but it is a good idea to know what they are in case they happen.
Severe reaction
In some children, a severe reaction may occur and requires immediate attention and treatment. This severe reaction is called “anaphylaxis” and is characterized by a swollen airway (throat) making it difficult to breathe, facial flushing (the face turning red), itching and shock (blood pressure drops). This is a medical emergency and you need to call 911 or the emergency telephone number where you reside if in a country other than the U.S.A.
Anaphylaxis is treated immediately with an epinephrine shot (EpiPen or Adrenaclick or other brand as your doctor determines) so it is imperative you have an EpiPen on hand to give that emergency shot as soon as you see your child is in danger and get him or her to the emergency room at the hospital right away. Anaphylaxis can start very quickly and it is imperative you get your child help immediately!
Treatment for mild symptoms
The only way to treat a milk allergy is to avoid all milk and milk products. This can be difficult because milk is a common ingredient in many foods. However, some people can tolerate milk in baked goods and other processed foods. Talk to your doctor about this and ask for a list of foods to avoid along with foods that can substitute for missed nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D etc.
Antihistamines such as Benadryl may be of help if your child has mild symptoms of hives, rash or itching. Again, consult your child’s doctor for which antihistamine to give and what the dosage should be for your child.
Milk allergy or milk intolerance, there is a difference
There is a difference between a true milk allergy and a milk intolerance. A milk allergy involves the body’s immune system reacting to the protein “casein” found in milk and a milk intolerance is the body’s digestive system lacking an enzyme called “lactase” to break down milk’s sugars. Hence the name of this condition, lactose intolerance.
A few of the symptoms of milk intolerance are gas, bloating and diarrhea after consuming milk or milk products. In some cases there may be tummy pain or upset stomach (nausea). Unlike a milk allergy, milk intolerance is usually never a medical emergency.
It is rare for babies to be born with lactose intolerance, but it has happened. When a baby is born with this, it is because they received the genetic code for it from the parents. So, it is a hereditary trait. Premature infants can also have lactose intolerance because of an insufficient lactase level.
Your child’s doctor may do a couple of tests to see if your child has lactose intolerance (milk intolerance).
These tests are a hydrogen breath test and a lactose tolerance test:
The hydrogen breath test is when you drink a liquid that contains high levels of lactose and then your doctor measures the amountof hydrogen in your breath at regular intervals.
The lactose intolerance test is your doctor will have you drink a liquid with a high level of lactose and then 2 hours later, take a blood sample to measure the amount of glucose (sugar) in your bloodstream. If your glucose level doesn’t rise, it means your body isn’t properly digesting and absorbing the lactose-filled drink.
If your child has no other health conditions and is found to have lactose intolerance, then your doctor may be giving you this advice. To treat this disorder, you want to limit foods and drinks that have lactose. In other words, limit milk and other dairy products, eat and drink lactose-reduced ice cream and milk and add a liquid or powder lactase enzyme to milk to break down the lactose.
Infants and breast milk
If your infant is at risk for developing a milk allergy, breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition and should be done as long as it is possible. Click here to learn more about breastfeeding.
Additionally, if you are breastfeeding, make sure you do not consume any milk or milk products as it crosses the breast milk and is then consumed by your baby. Eat a well-balanced diet and follow the directions for milk allergy substitutes. Talk with a registered dietician for information about a healthy diet.
Milk alternatives
For the baby/infant who is allergic to milk, there are alternatives. If you find that you cannot breastfeed your infant, I have a few suggestions for you to check out and to inquire about with your pediatrician. See below:
There are lots of good milk substitutes for your child. Here are a few examples:
Soy milk
Rice milk
Oat milk
Almond milk
Soy milk is the best of these options because it has about the same amount of protein as cow’s milk. You may find that missing in other choices. Whichever one you choose, be sure it’s fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
Check the labels to make sure the product doesn’t include milk-based ingredients. Look for words like casein, whey, lactoferrin, lactoglobulin, lactalbumin, lactose, curds, diacetyl, ghee, lactulose, recaldent, and tagatose.
Milk that comes from an animal other than a cow, like goat’s milk, can also trigger an allergic reaction.
Here are some suggestions for you and your toddler for milk substitutions:
I hope that you found this review on children with milk allergies and milk intolerance helpful and that it cleared up any questions you may have had about this subject. As always, I stress the importance of seeking the guidance of a physician and follow his or her advice. I highly recommend the products listed above for acceptable milk substitutes for yourself or your child. We have come a long way when it comes to medicine and nutrition in the 21st century!!
Questions or comments?
Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as quickly as I can.
As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.
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Let’s face it, toilet training your toddler whether boy or girl is a major task of toddlerhood. Successful potty training depends on the readiness of both your child and you the parent. You must be willing to spend the necessary time and emotional energy to encourage your child on a daily basis. So, in this article I am going to explain to you what the physical signs for readiness are in your child as well as the psychologic signs. It is my aim that you find this to be the best toilet training advice for you and your child.
Is my child ready for toilet training?
Toilet training is one of the most frustrating and time-consuming tasks that you will face with your child. It is important that you know and understand normal growth and development patterns so that you will not become frustrated to the point of anger. Don’t place unrealistic expectations on your little guy or gal and don’t try to toilet train until you start seeing the following signs of both physical readiness and psychologic (mental) readiness.
1. Physical readiness signs:
Child can remove own clothing.
Child is willing to let go of a toy when asked.
Child is able to sit, squat, and walk well.
Child has been walking for 1 year.
2. Psychological signs:
Child notices if diaper is wet.
Child may indicate that diaper needs to be changed by pulling on the diaper, squatting, or repeating a word or phrase.
Child communicates need to go to the bathroom or can get there by self.
Child wants to please parent by staying dry.
Stressful situations interfere with success
If there are stressful situations going on in your life such as moving to a new home, starting a new job, the birth of another baby or the loss of a loved one or pet, then I recommend not toilet training your toddler at this time. All these things are nothing short of being considered “stressful life-changing times” and it is best that you postpone the toilet training for another time. Stressful situations will interfere with the success of your training efforts.
Children feel the tension in the home and they get upset too. They will not be able to process what they need to do if they see and feel your stress. Give yourself and your child the time to re-adjust to whatever the situation may be and remember, there is no rush. Your little guy or gal will be potty trained in the long run.
Training will be so much easier when your life’s routines return to “normal.”
Age range
When your toddler is around 18 to 24 months, you may begin to see the signs of readiness as listed above. However, waiting until he or she is around 24 to 30 months old makes this task considerably easier because toddlers at this age are less negative and usually are more willing to control their “peeing” to please their parents.
There are no set rules or timetables for toilet training. The age at which toilet training is usually begun varies from culture to culture and has no specific age range.
The training process – step-by-step
You’ve determined your child is ready for toilet training. Now, the next step is to go buy a potty chair and pull-ups (training pants). Pull-ups come in boy and girl styles too. Click either link or picture below to purchase!
Take your child with you when you go to purchase these items or pull them up online, but show your child what you are purchasing for them and let them get excited for these big boyor big girl potty chairs.
Click on the links or pictures below to see more and to purchase!
Now, for the steps to guide you in your training efforts:
Place the potty chair in a specific spot (I think the bathroom is the best) and have your child wear training pants.
Establish a routine. For example: take your child to the potty after getting up in the morning, after naps, after each meal, before bed.
Use a sticker chart. Place in the bathroom (where the potty chair is). Give your child the sticker EVERY time he or she goes “potty.” This is rewarding and exciting for your child. Make a BIG DEAL about it!
For boys: start them sitting down to “pee” first, before trying to teach them to stand.
Do not punish mistakes! Your child is going to have “accidents” and it is to be expected. Whatever you do, never, never yell at or punish your child for this. It will only cause him or her to revert backwards and it will take that much longer to get him trained!
Time and patience is a must! There are lots of claims out there that say you can train your child in 3 days. Don’t believe it. It is extremely rare that any child can be totally potty trained in 3 days. As a rule, be prepared for it to take some time before that happens. There is no set time limit – your child will eventually be trained.
Be patient, be kind and understanding with your little one! Always, always reward each and every time your child uses the potty.
Resistance
If your child resists being toilet trained, stop the training and wait 30 to 60 days and begin again. Please note that bowel control is usually achieved before bladder control. But there are some kids who achieve daytime bladder control before bowel control. Remember that not all kids are the same. Each of them are unique individuals and they toilet train differently. Never compare your child with another!
Regression and ways to overcome
Sometimes during the toilet training process, your child may have a few setbacks. If that happens, happens try using a different method. For example, take your child to the bathroom with you, set him (or her) on the potty and then you sit on the big person’s toilet. Give him time to go and talk to him telling him that you too are going potty.
Another method would be to try using the toilet instead of the potty chair. You will need a step stool and a toilet seat insert for training. Encourage your child to use the “grown-up” potty to be like mommy or daddy. This might do the trick. Always keep an open mind as to how to try different things. Remember the old adage – “If at first, you don’t succeed, try, try again.”
Closing thoughts
All of us live in a fast-paced world and we tend to get caught up in time limits and schedules. However, this is one area that you should never put a time limit or a tight schedule on. When it comes to our children and toilet training them, we must put our “patience hat on”, take a deep breath and be ready to slow down. Take your time with your child and give your child encouragement, lots of love, and rewards – you will never regret it!
Happy potty training!
Questions or comments?
Please feel free to post your questions or comments below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.