Most babies start crawling anywhere between the age of seven and ten months, but some may start a little earlier or later than this. Some babies even skip the crawling phase altogether and go straight from sitting up to standing to walking.
Crawling is not as easy as it may seem. Your baby needs to use both his mind and body to crawl, as well as coordinate gross motor, cognitive, and visual-spatial skills.
To begin with, the muscles in your little one's neck, shoulders, arms, back, and core must be strong enough to adequately support his weight and help him maintain steadiness. Additionally, your child must also use her eyes to focus on a target to move towards it. They also use their mental muscles to help them with navigation.
There are many different ways for a baby to learn to crawl. Your little nugget may start with one style and then pick up another, or stick to his favorite until she learns to walk. Here are some of the most common crawling styles you might come across:
1. The classic crawl
This may be the first style that comes to mind when you think of crawling. It involves your baby using his knees and hands to propel himself across the floor. One arm and the opposite knee move forward at the same time.
2. The commando crawl
This is sometimes referred to as the belly crawl. As your baby's core muscles are not yet strong enough to allow him to lift himself, he moves forward by lying flat on his tummy and pushing himself with his arms.
3. The crab crawl
Your baby might also crawl by pushing with his arms, which ends up him sliding backward instead of forward. He can also move sideways with this style of crawling.
4. The bear crawl
This style is similar to the classic crawl, but the difference is the baby’s arms and legs are extended. The knees don’t touch the ground at all.
5. The roll
The roll involves your little one rolling around with his entire body, instead of using his hands and legs.
6. The bottom scooter
Your baby sits upright and shuffles around on his bottom. He uses his arms to push himself forward.
7. The leapfrog
With this crawl, the baby gets into a position that is similar to the bear crawl, then lifts his upper body and uses his legs to propel himself forward.
Your baby will only start crawling when he is ready, but there’s a couple of ways you can help him discover crawling.
1. Tummy time
As previously mentioned, your baby will need to build up the strength and coordination the skill of crawling takes. One of the most effective ways to help him do this is by getting him to feel comfortable on his tummy.
As you may have guessed from the name, tummy time involves letting your baby lie on his tummy for some time. This is an activity you can start right after birth. Start practicing tummy time a few minutes a day at first, then build up the activity gradually as your baby’s neck and back muscles become stronger. You should never leave your baby unsupervised during tummy time.
2. Belly bait
You can also try introducing games to encourage crawling; belly bait involves placing tantalizing toys just out of reach during tummy time, or near where your little one is sitting. This will motivate him to try out new ways of moving her arms and legs.
3. Prop your baby up to sit
Sitting assisted to begin with, and then unassisted when he’s ready, can also help babies develop strong back and abdominal muscles for crawling. From a sitting position, he might try rocking back and forth and gradually figure out how to move along.
Once your baby masters crawling, you might be surprised at how fast she moves. Here is how you can keep him safe:
1. Keep his knees protected
Cover your baby’s knees with comfy leggings or stretchy pants that allow him to move easily without having to endure scratches or painful rug burn.
2. Remove obstacles
Anticipate sudden accelerations from your crawling baby and get rid of breakables and potential hazards in his path. You must also keep a close eye on him at all times.
3. Consider childproofing
Make sure your home is childproofed for a crawling baby. To get started, you might want to get down on all fours and look for trouble areas at her level. Here are some tips on childproofing:
Keep in mind that every baby is unique, so if your little one is a late crawler (or doesn't' pick up the skill at all), it shouldn't be a cause for concern. However, if he's also yet to reach other milestones, such as social interactions, language, and other motor skills, inform your doctor.
Getting around all on his own gives your little one a great sense of accomplishment, which is a huge boost to his confidence and self-esteem. Crawling also opens up your baby’s world to new adventures and leads the way to the development of more complex movements, such as pulling up on objects to stand, walking, dancing, and running.
]]>Before you get started, make sure you have the following diapering essentials on hand:
Although you only need a diaper at a time, it doesn’t hurt to have a couple of spares handy just in case.
For newborns and babies that have chronic diaper rash, use a cotton ball dipped in warm water to clean the baby off. You can also choose to use a soft washcloth and water. Another option is to use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, pre-moistened wipes.
Sometimes a diaper might leak and stain your little one’s clothes, so you might want to have a clean pair of pants nearby in case this happens.
You'll need either of these in case your baby gets a diaper rash. Diaper rash creams and ointments create a barrier between a baby’s sensitive bottom and skin-irritating pee and poop.
A diaper changing table is designed to make the diapering process easier. Go for one that features a side rail on all four sides, to reduce the risk of your little one rolling off. If you don't have a changing table, the top of a dresser (or any other flat, secure surface) should do.
This goes on top of the changing surface. Many diaper bags come with a changing pad.
If you have a squirmy baby, consider keeping a favorite toy or even a music box nearby for distraction
It might be helpful to have somewhere to dispose of your baby’s used diapers. A diaper pail is a convenient way of doing this.
The basic steps for changing a diaper are as follows:
1. Place your little one on a clean, flat surface
If you don’t have a changing table, simply spread a towel, blanket, or waterproof pad on a clean, soft, flat, surface and lay your baby on it on his/her back. Make sure you keep one hand on your baby at all times, even if he/she is yet to start rolling over.
2. Unfasten the diaper and clean your baby’s bottom
Unfasten the diaper. For a wet diaper, fold it underneath your little one, so that the clean outer part is under his/her bum. Proceed to wipe the area. For a poopy diaper, wipe off as much as possible using the diaper, and then fold it underneath, as with a wet diaper.
Use damp cotton balls or wipes to clean your diaper care, making sure to clean between all the creases. If you’re wiping your baby girl, make sure to do it from front to back, to avoid getting fecal matter in the vaginal area. If you’re changing your baby boy, cover his penis with a diaper or cloth to keep pee from getting on you. Pat your baby dry and then apply a rash ointment on the affected area if needed.
Carefully lift your baby’s legs by the ankles and slide a fresh diaper underneath. Pull the front of the diaper up between your child’s legs and bring it to his/her belly. Lift the wings of the diaper on both sides and stick the fastening tape on each wing onto the diaper’s front. Fasten the diaper snugly to prevent leaks, but not so tightly that it irritates your baby’s skin. To check this, try inserting two fingers between the diaper and your baby’s tummy. The tabs should always be symmetrical.
3. Dispose of the used diaper
If you use disposables, wrap the dirty diaper and secure it with the tab fastener. Toss it in your diaper pail, trash can, or plastic bag. Never flush a diaper down the toilet.
4. Dress your child
Change your baby’s clothes if they somehow got soiled as well.
5. Wash your hands
Once you’re finished, clean the diaper changing area and wash your hands.
Some diapers have a liquid-sensitive, color-changing stripe so that you can see if your baby needs a fresh diaper. Other signs that your little one may need a diaper change include:
It’s recommended that you change your baby’s diaper after every poop, and regularly in between to ensure that your child doesn’t stay in a wet diaper for too long. When you have a newborn, you may need to change diapers as often as ten times a day.
If you notice leaks and blowouts start to happen more often, it might be time to upgrade to the next diaper size. As your little one grows, the quantity of poop and pee also increases. A bigger diaper will not only fit better but also hold more stuff.
Sometimes the diaper may be the right size, but you may have put it on your baby incorrectly, resulting in leaks. Make sure you double-check that the tapes are symmetrical, the leg cuffs are turned out, and that you haven't fastened the diaper too loosely or too tightly.
Even if you don’t always look forward to changing diapers, you will have peace of mind knowing that your little nugget feels comfortable and dry in his diaper. Plus, with some time and practice, diaper changes will become effortless for you, and you might even start to enjoy it!
]]>While it used to be standard practice for nurses to whisk away your baby after birth for a bath, recommendations in recent years have shifted in favor of waiting at least a couple of hours, if not longer, to give a baby the first bath (the World Health Organization recommends waiting 24 hours).
Studies indicate that there may be several emotional and physical benefits to delaying that first birth. Since young babies are particularly sensitive to cold, it can significantly cold stress and subsequently reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and hypothermia. Additionally, babies are born with a waxy coating on their skin, known as the vernix, which helps to retain heat and can serve as a barrier to infection.
Another reason to delay that initial bath is that it can improve your breastfeeding success rate, as well as promote bonding between mother and baby.
You won't need to bathe your baby in the infant tub until the umbilical cord stump falls off on its own (and the circumcision scar has healed, if your little boy had the procedure). This may take around 14 days, or longer. In the meantime, you'll have to stick to sponge baths.
Here are the supplies you will need to give your newborn a sponge bath:
Here are the steps to follow to bathe your newborn during those first few days:
1. Fill the baby bathtub with warm water
Fill the tub with about 2-3 inches of water. Making sure to keep your baby's head supported at all times, gently lower him/her into the water. The bathwater temperature for a newborn should be between 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. A good way to gauge the water temperature is by dipping your wrist in it, but if you want to get it exactly right, use a thermometer.
2. Keep your baby warm during the bath
Even when you use warm water, your baby can still lose body heat quickly. To prevent this, turn up the thermostat a little bit to make the room warmer before bath time.
3. Give him/her a gentle but thorough wipe down
Dampen a cotton ball and use it to gently wipe your baby’s eyelids from the inside corner out. Use a cotton ball for each eye, and another one to clean around their nose. Take another piece of damp cotton wool and wipe around the ears, but not inside them. Use this technique to wash the rest of your little one’s face and neck, making sure to clean between the folds of skin.
Use a fresh piece of cotton wool to clean your baby’s bottom. If you have a girl, it’s crucial to wipe the genital area from front to back, to avoid spreading bacteria from the bottom to the vagina. If you have a boy, wipe around the penis and testicles gently. You don’t need to pull back the foreskin.
There’s no harm in using a gentle, natural, scent-free baby body wash, but cotton balls and water should be enough to get your baby clean. If you do opt to use shampoo, make sure you cup your hand across your baby’s forehead when rinsing his/her head so the lather doesn’t get into his/her eyes.
4. Dry your baby
Once you finish bathing your baby, dry his/her skin gently, but thoroughly – making sure to dry in all those folds and creases – and put the clean diaper on.
You don’t need to worry about slathering your baby in after-bath products. Newborn skin can often appear dry, so you might be tempted to apply lotions, but they're not necessary – babies are born with soft and supple skin, so they don't need fancy lotions. For any dry patches, try using scentless petroleum jelly. You should also skip baby powder; pediatricians don't recommend it because the particles can find their way into your baby’s lungs and potentially cause respiratory problems.
In terms of when you should give that first official bath, it’s entirely up to you. You may want to wait a few days and just give your little one top and tail cleanses in those first days instead of full baths, but you might also want to create a bathing routine as soon as you get your baby home.
It may come as a surprise to learn that you don’t need to bathe your newborn daily. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, bathing your baby three times a week is fine as long as you thoroughly clean their neck, face, hands, and diaper area daily.
It's entirely up to you to decide when to bathe your baby. Just make sure you choose a time when you don't have to worry about interruptions. As a rule of thumb, you'll find that you'll have the easiest time bathing your baby when he/she is content and relaxed. If you intend to bathe your little one after a feeding, consider waiting a while to allow his/her tummy to settle.
It can take some time and a bit of practice on your time, but bath time could soon become something that you and your baby look forward to. By making your child’s first bath a comfortable and stress-free experience, you can help them learn to see bath time as a fun, relaxing time spent with Mommy or Daddy.
]]>Read on to find out more about when babies start teething, symptoms to look out for, and the most effective teething remedies.
When do babies start teething?
Just when that first tooth erupts from the gum varies widely from one baby to another. There are a handful of cases where babies are born with teeth, although those are rare. For some infants, the first tooth erupts as early as three months old, while others don’t get teeth until well after their first birthday.
For most babies, teething begins around the age of six months. The age a baby cuts his first tooth entirely depends on the family history of teething, so if you got your teeth early, there is a high probability that your child will too.
What are teething symptoms should I look out for?
It is important to familiarize yourself with common teething symptoms, so you’ll be able to pick up on the milestone once it starts. Symptoms of teething include:
1. Irritability
You might notice that your little one is a little fussier or more fretful than usual. This is because many babies have to endure a great deal of pain as a result of the inflammation of gum tissue. The first teeth usually cause a lot of irritability, which may last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
2. More drooling than usual
Your baby may start drooling or dribbling a lot when teething. The eruption of teeth results in an increased production of saliva, so you can expect to deal with constantly soggy clothes during this period. To make your little one more comfortable, try fastening on a bib, and regularly wipe his chin to prevent chapping.
3. Disturbed sleep
The pain or discomfort of teething may disrupt your little one’s nighttime slumber. If your baby is unable to self-soothe and go back to sleep on his own, try patting him gently or singing his favorite lullabies to encourage him.
4. Teething rash
The constant dribbling might cause chafing and rashes around your baby’s mouth, chin, and neck. To prevent this, pat away the saliva and moisturize the area with a gentle, unscented skin cream.
5. Rubbing or pulling at an ear
You may notice your baby tugging at his ears furiously during the teething stage. This might happen because gums and ears share nerve pathways, hence the reaction. Keep in mind that ear pulling could also be an indication of something more serious, so check with your pediatrician to be sure.
6. Chewing or sucking on objects
To ease the pressure of teeth erupting through under the gums, your baby might chew, gnaw, or suck on things.
7. Sore, red gums
The area where the tooth is poking through may be sore and inflamed.
8. A red cheek
One of your baby’s cheeks may appear flushed.
How can I alleviate my baby’s teething discomfort?
Here are some teething remedies that have been proven to be effective at relieving teething discomfort:
1. Apply pressure on gums
To counter the pressure of teeth poking out of your baby’s gums, try rubbing his gums gently but firmly. You can apply light pressure by rubbing a clean finger or knuckle on the inflamed or sore area.
2. Use teething toys
Give your child bumpy rubber teething rings, rattles, and other soft toys that they can chew on to relieve the aching in their gums and alleviate discomfort.
3. Soothe achy gums
Chewing on cold items can numb the inflamed area and subsequently reduce pain. Keep a supply of damp washcloths or teething toys in the fridge. It might be tempting to speed up the cooling by placing these items in the freezer, but very cold things will hurt your baby's sensitive gums and make the pain even worse. If your baby has started to eat solids, let him chew on chilled veggies or fruits.
4. Sucking
Sucking may provide comfort to a teething baby, as well as help to alleviate pain. Give your child a bottle or a pacifier to suck on to calm them down.
5. Consider giving pain medication
If teething pain persists, consider giving your little one over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The most commonly used pain relievers for babies are infant acetaminophen and infant ibuprofen. Make sure you consult your pediatrician before you administer any OTC medications.
Sometimes your doctor may recommend that you give medication to your child especially if the pain is severe. It is important that you give the correct dose, and only use painkiller when necessary.
6. Give extra snuggles
Give extra snuggles, kisses, and reassuring words during this difficult time to reassure your teething baby.
Remedies to avoid
Which teeth come first?
The order that baby teeth come in vary, but the most common first teeth are the bottom incisors (the front teeth. Those are then followed by the top incisors (top front teeth), top lateral incisors (the teeth found on either side of the bottom incisors), the bottom lateral incisors, the first molars (first back teeth), canines, and finally, the second molars.
Final thoughts
Teething can be quite a difficult time for your baby, especially if his teeth erupt one after the other in quick succession. Expect teething to begin at around 6 months, and keep an eye out for those pesky symptoms during this period. If your baby is in pain, try one or more of the suggested remedies to alleviate the discomfort.
]]>1. Acknowledge your toddler’s feelings
Keep in mind that it is natural for your little one to express varying degrees of negative feelings, or act out in one way or another. It might be tempting to scold them, but this can have a counterproductive effect.
Instead, try saying, "Being the older child can be hard. It's okay to feel mad or sad. Remember we love you." Parents who encourage open and participative communication with their kids help them to develop resilience and enhance their stress management skills.
2. Involve your toddler
While you’re pregnant, allow your older child to pick out things like toys or books for the baby. When the little one comes along, allow the older kid to help out with tasks such as feeding and dressing – just make sure you have age-appropriate boundaries in place.
For example, a toddler can pass you the feeding bottle, or even pick out a onesie for their sibling. Helping you out will make your child feel important and included in caring for the new baby. If your child is unwilling to assist you, don’t try to force them into doing it.
3. Give them some one-on-one time
Your older child needs love and attention, so consider giving them some deserved one-on-one time, even if it’s just 20 or 30 minutes a day. One simple way you can do this is to wear your newborn in a front-facing sling, which frees your hands to play a game with your toddler.
You also want to increase demonstrations of love for your older child. Increase the daily dose of hugs, give plenty of kisses, and say extra I love yous. Giving them extra love will make them feel special and reduce the likelihood of them acting out.
4. Reinforce positivity
Your toddler may display some form of aggression towards the new arrival, so it's important to be prepared. An older child might pinch, hit, or even throw a toy at their sibling. You might firmly let them know that hurting the baby is not allowed.
Avoid punishing as it may prove to be counterproductive. Talk to your toddler calmly and encourage them to express their anger in other ways. Studies have shown positive parenting significantly reduces levels of aggression in kids, whereas harsh parenting exacerbates it.
5. Avoid comparing your children
Comparing siblings, even about seemingly harmless topics such as who had more hair, or when each crawled or walked can breed feelings of resentment. Instead, make each child feel unique and praise their differences.
6. Keep a close eye when they’re together
Any parent would want their kids to get along when left alone together, but this is hardly ever the case. For a while, you'll have to hover close by whenever your children are together to reduce the risk of your older child hurting the baby, even accidentally.
If you notice your toddler is about to get rough, quickly pick up the baby and distract the older child with a toy, snack, song, or an activity. Taking swift action will not only protect the baby but also save you from having to constantly say “No”, which may encourage aggressive behavior.
7. Boost your toddler’s ego
Make your toddler feel connected to the baby by saying things like “He only giggles like that when he sees you” or “He loves it when you hold his bottle for him.”
You can also boost your toddler’s confidence by praising him/her when he/she demonstrates cooperativeness (handing you the baby’s bottle), patience (waiting without throwing a tantrum while you change a diaper), and empathy (trying to comfort the baby). Make a fuss about how they are being a good older sibling to encourage this behavior.
8. Offer a gift
Your new bundle of joy will inevitably receive plenty of gifts from well-wishers, which can be pretty hard for a toddler to see. Consider surprising your older child with a "big kid" present to make them feel included. It doesn't have to be extravagant – just a little something that says "I'm an awesome older sibling", like a puzzle, a book, a toy, or even a colorful pair of shoes.
9. Avoid blaming the baby
It is important to watch your words when dealing with a potentially jealous older child. Saying things like "I can't take you to the zoo; the baby's crying" or "I'll help you after I change the baby" can make them feel resentful. Instead, try saying "We'll go in the after breakfast" or "I'll help you in five minutes."
While you're pregnant, your burgeoning tummy may prevent you from getting down and dirty with your toddler, but don't tell them that. She may think that the baby is stopping mum from having fun, and resentment may build even before you have your tot.
10. Stick to established routines as much as possible
Toddlers find comfort in routines. So if you can try to maintain their routine as much as possible even in the early weeks, it will make a big difference. Try reading them a bedtime story or eating breakfast with them as usual. It will take some time to strike a balance, but maintaining a toddler's routine will help to reassure them.
11. Be patient
While this period of sibling jealousy can feel long and frustrating, it’s a passing phase, so be patient with your toddler.
Final thoughts
The arrival of a new sister or brother can be upsetting for a toddler. Although sibling rivalry is natural, it is important to be proactive in those first weeks and years to ensure a strong bond among your children down the road. Finally, patience is key – eventually, your children will learn to adapt to one another and share their parents’ attention and love, as well as possessions and space
]]>There are three main techniques for swaddling a baby:
The diamond swaddle
Here is a step-by-step guide for a diamond swaddle:
The square swaddle
If a diamond swaddle is not for you, consider trying the square swaddle, sometimes known as the quick swaddle:
The sleep sack swaddle
Do you want an easier option? For this swaddling technique, you need to have a special sleep sack swaddle.
Final thoughts
Swaddling is a simple yet useful method of calming a baby. It’s just about discovering a technique you like and establishing a routine that both you and your baby are comfortable with. With the suggested methods, you can have your little one wrapped up perfectly in no time.
]]>This post looks into the most appropriate age to let your kids choose what they wear, as well as why you should do it and some tricks on how to go about it.
At what age should you start letting your kids pick their clothes?
Most kids master the basics of getting dressed by the time they are 3 years old. At this age, they can choose outfits that they like. It is usually around this age when you start noticing that they are a bit pickier with their outfits.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you should wait a bit longer, at least when they are 4 or 5, before allowing full control over what they wear. That said, the "ideal" age typically varies, because no two children are the same.
Why should you let your kid choose what they wear?
Here are some of the reasons why you may want to let your kids have more of a say in what they wear.
1. Self-expression
As your children get older, they start to form their own thoughts and develop a unique sense of style. As a result, picking an outfit becomes more than just finding something decent to wear. Allowing them to choose what to wear gives them the freedom to dress based on how they feel. If they’re feeling upbeat, they will likely gravitate towards bright, colorful clothes.
Sure, your kids will probably pick something outrageous that you would have never chosen for them, but is that such a big deal? Letting your kids express themselves in this way helps them learn to share their feelings, thoughts, and emotions.
2. Building a sense of individuality
Closely related to self-expression is building a sense of individuality. After all, you want your little ones to have a unique sense of character. When kids get to choose what they wear, it allows them to stand out as individuals.
That said, in some situations, such as schools that require uniforms, funerals, or weddings, you may need to make them understand why they have to adhere to a given dress code. However, on a normal day, it’s okay to allow your kids to express their individuality. By allowing them to develop a sense of individuality, you encourage them to not worry about trying to fit in and conform to societal norms.
3. It can save you time
While it may seem like you're throwing in the towel, allowing your kids to choose their outfits can make your life a whole lot easier. As a parent, you know how draining it can be to try reasoning with your kids to get them to wear what you want. Why not forfeit this battle and save yourself the hassle?
While it is important to instill discipline in your children, you don’t want them to grow up in an environment where they have little to no control as it will stunt their growth and learning.
4. They will wear what they pick
Another reason why you may want to consider letting your kids choose what they wear is that they will wear the clothes they pick. You may buy your kids clothes that you consider stylish, but if they don’t like them, don’t be surprised if they end up at the back of their wardrobes, never to be worn. If you allow them to pick out clothes for themselves, you can be assured that they will wear them, at least for some time.
5. They can start to learn the value of things
By teaching your kids the value of things such as clothes, you help them develop a sense of budgeting, a skill that can be honed and come in handy in the future. Whenever you go shopping, bring your kids along, and let them know the value of items, so that they are aware of what is affordable and what is simply out of reach. This can help them become more conscious of how they manage their finances when they have their incomes.
6. It’s fun and exciting for them
Many kids tend to require quite a bit of convincing to get dressed when they have no say in what they wear. When you let kids choose what they wear, getting dressed can be a fun and exciting experience that they look forward to each day.
Tips for when kids want to choose what they wear
1. Give options
Kids want control, so why not let them have it in this aspect of their life? After all, you can still control the outcome of how they dress by providing them with choices. For example, ask, “Do you want to wear sweatpants or shorts today?”
2. Be patient
Letting your kids choose what they wear can be nerve-wracking, especially since whatever they pick will probably not be what you would have wanted for them. Exercise restraint even if it tests your patience, and allow room for your little one to experiment and play around as they develop their unique sense of style. With a bit of practice, they will figure out what works best for them. Try this for day-to-day wear, or slow-moving weekends when there isn’t much to do.
3. Allow taste
Just like any other person, your kid likely has clothes that he/she can’t stand. Try to be flexible and understanding of their preferences, as long as they are within reason. You may even discover some easy solutions to your kid’s dislikes – you can cut off an irritating tag or have them wear tights under their shorts when they don’t want to wear jeans on chilly days – just make that their comfort is your main priority.
Final thoughts
Over time, your kids will want a say when it comes to their fashion choices. Giving up a bit of control when it comes to your child’s wardrobe shouldn’t be a cause for worry. As long as your little nugget is confident, comfortable, and happy, they’ll be fine!
]]>Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is one such condition. Here is what you need to know about SIDS, and what you can do to reduce the risk.
What is SIDS?
SIDS is the sudden, unexpected death of an infant under one. This condition is one of the leading causes of death in infants during the first year of life. Most cases occur when infants are sleeping.
What increases the risk of SIDS?
While SIDS isn't fully understood, researching are learning more and more about what increases the risk of it occurring. Today, it's believed that there is no distinct cause of risk and that in most cases, it occurs as a result of a combination of multiple risk factors to cause a baby who is already at risk to die from it. Some of these risk factors include:
1. Age
Younger babies are more likely to succumb to SIDS than older ones. A vast majority of the cases occur before 6 months. The peak danger of SIDS is between 2 and 4 months old.
2. Sleeping position
Studies have shown that SIDS is more likely to occur in babies who sleep on their tummies compared to babies who are put to sleep on their backs. Stomach sleeping is incredibly risky because it makes a baby more susceptible to inhaling his own exhaled air, which can lead to a significant increase in carbon dioxide and lower oxygen levels. This, in turn, could potentially cause them to suffocate.
Furthermore, a baby who sleeps on his stomach tends to sleep longer and deeper, so he’s less likely to wake up or change sleeping positions when breathing becomes difficult.
Stomach sleepers have also been found to be more likely to experience sudden drops in their blood pressure, overheat, and lose the ability to regulate their heart rates, all of which can increase the risk of SIDS occurring.
3. Underlying conditions
Babies that succumb to SIDS may have an underlying condition that increases the risk of it occurring, despite seeming health. For example, if the part of the brain that is supposed to respond to unfavorable breathing conditions is underdeveloped, or they have an undetected heart defect or a faulty gene, the risk of SIDS occurring could be higher.
4. Unsafe sleep environment
Infants who sleep with soft toys, with loose pillows or bedding, or sleep in an area that is too warm may be at a higher risk of SIDS.
5. Familial factors
Some factors that may put a baby at risk of developing SIDS are tied to the genetic and behaviors of the infant’s parents. They include:
6. Physical complications
Babies who are born prematurely or have a low birth rate are at a higher risk of succumbing to SIDS.
7. Demographic risks
The occurrence of SIDS in African American and Native American babies is two to three times higher than the national average. Three out of babies who succumb to SIDS are boys.
8. Season
Most deaths tend to occur during the colder seasons – winter, fall, and early spring.
How common is SIDS?
According to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 35 in 100,000 babies succumb to SIDS. In 2017, approximately 1,360 babies were affected by SIDS. So, while the condition is comparatively rare, it can still happen, and there are steps you can take to lower the risk.
How can SIDS be prevented?
1. Make sure your baby sleeps on his back
Back-sleeping allows a baby to breathe in fresh air, plus it also significantly reduces the risk of overheating. Your baby should still have tummy time sessions, but only under careful supervision.
Research has shown that putting a baby to sleep on his side isn’t safe either. This is because it’s easier for a baby to roll onto her time from his side than from his back, and if he is yet to develop the skill of rolling back onto his side, he is at risk.
2. Use a firm crib mattress and a fitted sheet
Steer clear of blankets, comforters, pillows, and stuffed toys as they can hinder your child’s breathing; a soft or ill-fitting mattress can also be dangerous. Look for a firm crib mattress and a fitted sheet, and if you’re worried about your baby getting cold, swaddle him or use a sleep sack.
3. Maintain a comfortable room temperature
To keep your baby from overheating, make sure you maintain a comfortable room temperature in the baby’s sleeping space. Set the thermostat at 60.8-68° F (16-20°C), dress your little one in easily removable light layers, and position the crib far from a radiator.
4. Have your baby sleep in a separate space
Co-sleeping with your infant increases the risk of suffocation with a loose blanket or pillow. Additionally, you may inadvertently cut off your baby’s air supply by rolling over onto him, or he could be strangled if his head gets caught between the mattress and headboard. If you want the added convenience of nighttime feedings that sleeping in the same bed as your infant allows, simply move your baby’s crib or bassinet into your room.
5. Use a pacifier
Sucking on a pacifier may reduce the risk of SIDS as the action brings a baby’s tongue forward, which in turns the airway a little bit more. Another theory suggests that babies who fall asleep sucking on a pacifier don’t sleep as deeply as those who don’t.
6. Steer clear of “anti-SIDS” products
Unless your child has been diagnosed with a respiratory or cardiac illness, avoid using anti-SIDS gadgets like electronic breathing monitors as I may give you a misguided sense of security.
7. Review SIDS precautions with childcare providers
Talk with your childcare providers and give them up-to-date information on SIDS so that they know how to keep your child safe in your absence.
Final thoughts
The idea of your precious little one being at risk of a condition like SIDS can be scary, especially if you’re a new parent. It is important to be informed about all aspects of the condition so that you’re aware of what increases the risk, and what you can do to prevent it.
]]>But then there are times it seems like nothing you do can calm your baby down, which can be very frustrating. Here are some tips on how to soothe a crying baby.
1. Rock your baby
If your baby is fussy, try rocking him in a rocking chair or glider to calm him down. If you prefer a hands-free option, consider putting your little one in a motorized baby swing, an automatic cradle, or a vibrating bouncy seat. Before going for any of these devices, make sure that they are age and weight appropriate.
Although these devices come in handy, you don’t want your baby to become dependent on the rocking motion to fall asleep. To keep this from happening, let him start to nod off, and then gently transfer him to his crib.
2. Try swaddling
Swaddling your precious one in a soft, receiving blanket will make them feel cozy and safe. According to researchers, swaddling may be comforting to babies because it replicates the feeling of being in a womb. Many babies tend to settle down faster and snooze longer when swaddled up. Your child may prefer their arm to be left free, to allow some degree of movement. To achieve that, simply swaddle by putting the blanket's upper edge at armpit level rather than chin level.
3. Give a massage
What better way to get your baby to calm down and relax than giving them a massage. You can try massaging them with baby massage oils, but if you don’t have them, a firm but gentle touch should suffice.
Start by stroking his chest from the center outward, then move downward to make small circles around a belly button. Gently roll his limbs between your hands, unfurling his fists and rubbing her hands, as well as massaging her feet and uncurling her toes.
4. Play a song (or sing one)
You don’t have to limit yourself to lullabies when trying to get your little one to calm down – try all sorts of different genres and songs. Like rocking your baby, music can calm the nervous system, subsequently decreasing a baby’s respiratory and heart rate.
You can also try singing to your baby to soothe them – after all, your baby can’t tell if you’re singing off-key. Infants may find the sound of you singing to be especially calming, as they recognize your voice.
5. Take them on a walk
The motion of walking may be all your baby needs to calm down. Going outside might be even more effective as fresh air has been known to work wonders for cranky babies. The change in air, light, sights, temperature, smells will likely impact your baby’s mood for the better – and yours too. If the weather is unfavorable, consider strapping your child into her car seat and going for a drive.
6. Bust out the pacifier
Another way you can get your fussy to calm down is by encouraging sucking. Try helping him to find his finger or thumb, or offer your clean finger. You can also try offering a pacifier, though you might want to consider holding off introducing one until breastfeeding has been well-established.
7. Play with your baby
Your baby may be crying simply because they’re bored out of their mind. To entertain your little one, try getting down to their level and showing them how her toys spin and rattle. You can also try narrating silly tales or your actions, complete with funny noises and animated expressions. Some babies love to watch you dance, while others enjoy listening to you as you read a simple rhyming board book.
8. White noise may do the trick
You can try soothing your baby having them listen to rhythmic whooshing sounds. Consider investing in white-noise machines or mobiles that create a calm, womb-like environment that soothes fussy infants and encourages them to stop crying.
Keep in mind that white noise is intended to be in the background, so while you might be tempted to drown out your baby’s crying, you don’t want your white-noise machine to be too loud. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a white-noise device should not be set louder than 50 decibels (this is about as loud as a quiet dishwasher)
9. Put them in a carrier
Soothe your little one by wearing him in a front-pack carrier and walking around with him. Babies are comforted by the feeling of closeness, plus a carrier allows you to carry on with your tasks without having to put your baby. A front-pack sling or carrier that will have your baby facing your body is especially ideal for the first three months when he can’t support his own head. As your little one gets older, you can convert your sling to a back or side hold.
10. Put out lights
You may find putting your baby in a completely dark to be effective at soothing them. Babies can easily be stimulated by their surroundings, causing them to find and cry. A dark, quiet room is reminiscent of the womb environment, so it might help them to settle down and relax. So, next time you’re having a hard time calming your little one, try pulling down blackout shades and dimming the light.
11. Try to stay calm
The constant crying of a baby can be unnerving and affect your response, so try your best to stay calm. Take deep breaths and try to remember that your baby needs your help. Be patient and gentle, and your energy may just rub off on your baby and encourage him to calm down.
Final thoughts
There are several ways you can soothe a crying baby. If you’re having a hard time calming your child, try the techniques recommended in this post. If your baby is inconsolable or cries frequently for seemingly no reason, consider seeking help from a pediatrician or a child development specialist.
]]>Read on to find out how many hours your little one should be sleeping.
Sleep during the first year
The duration of sleep a baby requires is based on his age as well as other important factors. During the first year of life, the amount of sleep your baby needs is as follows.
Newborn to 3 months
A healthy baby within this age bracket should get a total of about 14-17 hours of shut-eye in a 24-hour day. Expect short spurts of 2-4 hours, with feedings, burping, diaper changing in between. While there is no well-defined sleep schedule, your little one will likely get anywhere from 8 to 12 hours of sleep at night, with the rest occurring during day naps.
4 to 6 months
If your child is in this age bracket, you can expect him to sleep for about 12-16 hours a day and around 5-6 hours in a row at night. Your baby’s sleep patterns will gradually start matching yours as she starts snoozing more at night and less during the day. By five months, your baby may start having fewer daytime naps – expect around 3-4 a day.
7 to 11 months
The total hours of sleep during this age span are almost identical to the 4-6 months age bracket, but overnight stretches may reach 10-12 hours. As a result, daytime naps may be fewer.
Babies over 12 months
Babies in the 12-18 months age range can sleep 13-15 hours over a 24-hour period. Most babies will nap twice a day until they reach the 18-month milestone. They will then often from two daytime naps to one longer nap.
Some babies may start resisting going to bed at night, preferring to stay up with you. This is especially common at around 18 months and usually goes away as they get older.
Factors that can impact the amount of sleep a baby gets
Other than age, factors that can impact the amount of sleep a baby gets include:
1. Premature birth
If you have a preemie, the amount of sleep he gets will differ from that of full-term babies. Premature babies can sleep up to 22 hours a day, depending on how early they were born. Preemies will also wake up more frequently to feed. As for sleeping for several hours in a row, it will take more time with a preemie (until they’re 10-12 months), so be patient.
2. Feeding method
Babies who are bottle-fed wake less frequently at night and sleep for longer than their breastfed counterparts. This is because it takes longer for formula to be digested. However, both groups still get the same amount of total sleep, and by 9 months, there isn’t much of a difference.
Final thoughts
All babies are different, so there will be some variation when it comes to sleeping patterns, but if your baby is relaxed and happy, they're probably getting enough rest. On the other hand, if your little one is cranky, restless, or generally fussy, they might need a bit more shut-eye. Consider tracking your baby's sleep for about a week or so if you're concerned.
]]>Here are a few tips on how you can help your teething little one to have a good night's sleep.
1. Soothe painful gums
Soothe your baby's painful gums by letting him/her chew on a damp washcloth that has been frozen to help numb the inflamed area. If your baby is already eating solid foods, giving him/her chilled veggies or fruits such as carrots, apples, or cucumbers may bring about relief.
2. Try using teething toys
Let your little one chew on teething toys to help alleviate the pain. Teething toys such as cold teething rings are effective at countering the pressure of an erupting tooth and subsequently reducing discomfort.
3. Apply pressure on the gums
Applying light pressure on your little one's gums may help soothe some of the symptoms that accompany teething. You can do this by rubbing a clean knuckle or finger on the sore areas of your baby's gums as you prepare them for bed.
4. Consider using medication to relieve pain
Consider using over-the-counter (OTC) medication such as infant acetaminophen or infant ibuprofen (for babies who are 6 months or older). You want to consult with your pediatrician before giving your little one OTC remedies for teething pain relief.
In some cases, a doctor may recommend medication for severe teething pain cases, with strict instructions that you give the correct dose and administer the painkiller sensibly. You want to steer clear of administering aspirin to kids as it has been linked to a rare but serious condition known as Reye's syndrome.
5. Stick to the bedtime routine
If you have established a consistent bedtime routine, don't let teething disrupt it. It is important that you maintain the bedtime routine as the familiarity will allow for a better environment for self-coping.
6. Check the room temperature
Teething can sometimes cause a slight temperature increase, so you want to make sure that your baby's sleeping space is at a comfortable temperature (between 60.8 and 68°F). This will improve their ability to sleep.
7. Dry excess drool
Excess saliva as a result of drooling can irritate your baby's neck and face. Make sure to keep your baby dry by regularly wiping his/her mouth using a soft cloth or drool bib. If necessary, change your baby's clothes, and keep their skin moisturized with baby-friendly products.
8. Let your baby suck
Sucking comforts babies and studies have shown that it can help to reduce pain. Let your little one suck on a pacifier or drink from a bottle to soothe teething.
9. Give cuddles
Babies need a lot of reassurance when teething, and what better way to do this than cuddling them? Provide lots of cuddles, hugs, and comforting words to help your little one cope with the discomfort of teething.
Final thoughts
Teething can result in a lot of sleepless nights for both you and your baby. It may be worth noting that the first few teeth will likely be the worst for your little one to endure, but as he/she gets older, it may become easier to distract them from the pain.
]]>A good toy should adequately challenge a child – if it is too simple, your little one will quickly become bored with it, and if it is too sophisticated, he/she will become frustrated. So one of the first things you want to do before purchasing a toy is to check the age ranges.
Infants: newborns to 1 year
Mobiles are great for babies at this stage as they help to develop their abilities to focus their attention on objects. Keep in mind that mobiles are only meant to be looked at, so once your little one is old enough to reach up and grab theirs, it is time to get rid of it.
Rattles and teething rings are great for when your little one starts teething. For your child’s safety, teething rings have to be washable and unbreakable, with no loose parts.
Stuffed toys are a hit with kids at this age. Go for stuffed toys that are washable, non-flammable, and non-toxic. Small, lightweight toys are ideal as they are easy for infants to cuddle and hold. If the stuffed toys feature limbs, they should be securely attached. The toy should not have any pieces or embellishments that your little one can pull off and swallow.
Consider investing in special ball toys that emit noises and feature internal moving pieces, as these toys provide visual and motor stimulation, as well as help develop motor skills, eye movement, and crawling abilities.
Older babies: 12-18 months
Babies within this age range can sit and stand on their own, but may still not be able to walk without assistance. They are completely enthralled by toys that open and close, push-pull toys that emit sounds, peek-a-boo games, and toys that feature turning knobs and dials.
Blocks also capture the attention of babies at this age. A few large blocks should suffice. For safety purposes, you want to go for light, foam-filled vinyl blocks, or blocks covered with soft fabric.
Sorting toys will not only encourage manual dexterity but will also teach your little ones how to tell apart different colors and sizes. Make sure to go for sorting toys that are too large to become a potential choking hazard.
Push-pull toys are great for children who are just starting to walk. This is because using these toys consistently will help build their confidence and encourage them to continue learning to walk. Look for a push-pull toy that comes with unbreakable parts as well as braking features.
Toddlers: 18 to 24 months
Kids at this age are fascinated by large blocks in a variety of shapes. You want to begin by introducing a small set so that you don’t overwhelm them, and once they get used to them, move on to a larger set. Go for blocks that come in a canister so that your little one has an easy time putting them away once playtime is over.
Action toys such as push-pull train sets with removable accessories and push-pull buses that come with removable people are especially popular with kids at this age. Activity toys that encourage climbing or crawling are also quite a hit – just make sure that they have the appropriate safety features.
Telephone toys allow kids at this age to engage in role-play fun. They are integral in stimulating your little one’s learning, plus they help develop their motor skills. To further enhance your child’s gross and fine motor skills, consider pounding toys such as soft hammers. These are also great for teaching hand-eye coordination.
Toddlers: 2-3 years
If you have a child at this stage, you might have picked on how creative they are becoming with their play. Most of them enjoy engaging in make-up and fantasy, and you will find them trying to imitate adult-like activities. As a result, they thoroughly enjoy playing with realistic toys. Talking dolls and toys in general fascinate them. Just make sure that the dolls you get them speak in simple, clear phrases that they can easily pick up on.
Children in this age group also find knobs and decals very appealing, so toy dashboards are unsurprisingly popular. A dashboard with several different features will capture their attention for extended periods, as long as it is easy to use.
Consider buying your little one occupational toys, such as a miniature building set or doctor’s kit, to inspire creative play. These types are especially great if your child is familiar with the occupation that they represent.
If your child has shown an appreciation for cars, why not get him/her a couple of trucks. These toys can be played with both indoors and outdoors, plus they encourage kids to get creative. Look for trucks that have moving parts, but be wary of sharp edges. You also want to go for trucks that have securely attached wheels so that you don’t have to worry about your little one somehow pulling them off.
Look for puzzles for a child in this age group to hone hand-eye coordination skills, shape recognition, matching skills, and concentration. Before buying a puzzle, check the box to see the age bracket that it is best suited for. You also want to make sure that the pieces aren’t too small that they could become a choking hazard.
You might also want to buy wind-up trains for your toddler at this age. Keep in mind that you will need to assemble the tracks, but most kids can place the train on the tracks on their own.
Final thoughts
A popular toy isn’t necessarily suitable for every child, so when shopping for toys, you want to consider your child’s personality, as well as their likes and dislikes. Another crucial consideration to keep in mind is toy safety. Make sure that any toy you buy for your little one won't cause him/her harm in any way. Lastly, the toys you select must help your kids grow and develop.
]]>When your little one learns how to get dressed without your help, it also helps them develop other crucial skills like fine motor skills, gross motor skills, cognitive skills, and more.
That said, teaching a child how to dress independently can be rather difficult. That's why in this article, you'll find some of the most effective tips that will help you teach your little one how to dress by themselves and gain some confidence while at it.
1. Make them sit down
The first step to learning how to dress independently is getting comfortable. Your little one needs to have proper balance and to try to use their core the entire time. Sitting down will prove especially useful when learning how to wear pants, shoes, or socks.
Sitting down also allows them to focus entirely on one thing. They'll get to avoid the distraction that comes with trying to balance while dressing at the same time.
2. Start slow
You want to start them off with the easy stuff. Since it is easier for kids to take off their clothes than to put them on, this should be your starting point. You can then gradually progress with increasingly challenging tasks until they are proficient.
Starting them slow in this way will help boost their confidence going forward. Plus, when kids are getting dressed, most of the time, it is usually as part of a set schedule, like getting ready for school. This puts a lot of pressure on the process. Taking the clothes off, on the other hand, is usually part of a more relaxed session, like around bedtime.
Starting your little one off with simple tasks like undressing will also spark an independent interest within them towards dressing by themselves. They'll start thinking, if I can do this, why not that, too? This will make the process of teaching them how to get dressed on their own a lot easier for you.
3. Get clothes with elastic waists
Whether its pants, shorts, or skirts, elastic waists will go a long way in making the process of helping your little one learn how to dress by themselves a lot easier.
Elastic waist bands are easy to put on and pull off. Therefore, whenever you can, go for sweatpants, simple skirts, or shorts. You can also opt for skirts that come with inner shorts for extra comfort.
Once they are comfortable with putting on their elastic pants, you can then graduate to pants with buttons or a snap. Proceed through each step gradually until they are able to dress themselves fully.
4. Get them to participate
Before their first lesson, you should make it a habit to have them participate in the process of putting on clothes. Things like pushing arms through sleeves and pulling up pants may seem trivial, but they go a long way in helping them learn how clothes work.
Encourage them to find their way around their pants, t-shirts and sweaters. Doing this will build their confidence and make them believe that they can do it independently if they had to.
5. Teach them how buttons and snaps work
This is one of the most challenging parts of wearing shirts or jackets. However, you need to start encouraging them to do it on their own. Sure, it might take a little longer at first, and it might even end up looking wrong and mismatched when they are done, but the experience adds up and they'll get better at it with time.
6. Get organized
Lay out their clothes correctly in the morning or in the evening. You want to make dressing up as easy as possible. You should also arrange their wardrobe in a consistent way; pants separated from shirts and so on.
If your child is a little older, you can even let them help out. Show them how to properly arrange a wardrobe and how to lay out the clothes they need to put on.
Kids thrive on order. When you take the doubt out of what clothes they need to put on, getting through it becomes easier for them. Consider storing their clothes in labelled drawers to make things even easier and more fun for them.
7. Patience is key
We touched on this a little earlier on, but the importance of patience when teaching your child how to dress themselves cannot be overstated.
Try to make the process fun for both of you. You could incorporate games and rewards into it. The most important thing is not to be frustrated at their failure. Kids pick up on these things, and when they notice your frustration, it chips away at their confidence. This might end up taking you a lot of steps backwards in your progress.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it's all about being realistic. No one can figure out how to dress by themselves within one day. Be patient and let your child learn gradually through practice.
For even better results, demonstrate how to do things. For example, you can button your shirts together, or let them dress in front of a mirror so they can see what they are doing. This will make it easier for them to identify their mistakes and figure out what to do about them.
Learning how to get dressed will help boost your child’s confidence and sense of independence. It also makes them feel like they have achieved something. Plus, it is just an essential life skill that everyone should learn.
With the tips outlined here, and with lots of patience to go with them, you should be able to help your little one learn to dress independently. Good luck!
]]>One of the ways that this non-conformity is expressed is through the clothes your little one wears. Dressing your child in gender neutral clothes that have been designed without either boys or girls in mind sets them free in a lot of ways. It allows them to enjoy being kids without any labels.
Gender neutral clothes mean rejecting the "normal" baby pink for girls and baby blue for boys. However, this doesn't mean that you should dress your kids in dull and almost colorless palettes.
If you are a parent who wants to start dressing your child in a gender-neutral way, you probably have no clue where to start. Well, that's where this article comes in. Here is an age by age guide to gender-neutral clothes, along with some tips on how to get the best gender-neutral clothes for your child.
Why should I dress my child in gender neutral clothes?
Here are a few reasons why gender neutral clothes are a good idea:
Gender neutral clothes by age
As promised here’s a guide for some of the clothes you can dress your child in while not giving a gender bias.
1. Babies
These are kids aged between 0 and 2 years. If you are looking for some baby unisex clothes, you can go for onesies that are not made in the conventional baby colors. One of the most common colors used in gender neutral baby clothing is white.
You can also look for swaddles and shawls that fit this box. The baby will also grow a lot during this period so affordable baby wear is the way to go. For photoshoots and when you leave the house, you can get hats and little booties for the baby.
In addition to maintaining neutrality, ensure the clothes are made from a breathable fabric. This can come in handy especially in the summer. They should also be made from a safe material since your baby’s skin is very sensitive.
2. Toddlers
Toddlers are more active and they will need more flexible clothing. You can get some sweatpants with elastic waistbands for easy access if they want to go potty. Also, invest in some graphic tees and prints.
Just because it is gender neutral doesn’t mean it has to be dull. Some of the colors you can go for are yellow and green. Also, if you want to maintain a gender-neutral look, you might want to stick with jumpsuits, overalls, pants, and shorts. Although baby boys can also wear skirts, dressing you girl in one can water down the whole purpose of gender-neutral wear.
You will also need to get some winter wear for the cold days. Here, you can go for duller color if that’s what you like. Get some gray, navy blue, brown, and black winter coats, jackets, hats, and mittens.
For footwear, you can opt for sneakers and flip flops to complete that gender-neutral look.
3. Kids
These are little ones aged between 4 and 7 years old. For them, they might start to have an opinion on what they like and want to wear concerning the clothes' colors and designs. At this point, it is important to consider your child's opinions both when putting together an outfit for the day and when shopping for clothes.
Also, children of this age bracket have started going to school and this means interacting with more children. As such, you need to also talk to the school if you are choosing to raise your child in a gender neutral way. Your little one might also want to get clothes based on their favorite shows and as a way to try to fit in with the other kids.
The color scheme for gender-neutral clothes for children of this age is still the same as the ones listed above. Since they're only just starting to figure out how to dress themselves, make sure that clothes are easy-access. The jackets and hoodies should have large zippers and buttons. For bottoms, avoid those with fly zippers and small buttons since they can only frustrate your child when it is time to go potty and there is no adult around.
Tips for buying gender neutral clothes
In most clothing stores, there is only a boys’ section and a girls’ one, with nothing in between. For this reason, getting gender-neutral clothes can be a hard task. Take a look at some of the tips you can use to source some of these clothes.
1. Go thrifting
One of the easiest ways for you to find gender-neutral clothes is to go to a thrift store. In some thrift stores, clothes are grouped by their color and not their gender, so it makes your search a lot easier.
Also, clothes bought from a thrift store are less expensive than in stores. For this reason, you get your baby clothes for cheap while keeping them gender neutral. Besides, if you are starting out or experimenting with gender-neutral clothes, you might want to play it safe and use cheaper options.
2. Accept all hand-me-downs
If a friend or a relative offers you some clothes that they no longer need, do not stop to consider whether they are meant for girls or boys. By choosing not to be picky, you might end up with a few nice pieces for your child.
Hand-me- downs also almost always come with a cute backstory, which is another reason to never say no to clothes.
3. Don’t stick to one side
One of the reasons behind gender-neutral clothing is to ensure that the clothes you put on your child do not conform to one particular gender. Therefore, you should never shy away from looking for clothes in the other section that's not your child's gender.
If your child is old enough to choose clothes with you or by themselves, you should not shy away from taking a look at the other side. You might be surprised at how many cool pieces you will find hidden there.
Shopping from both the boys’ and girls’ aisles gives you the best of both worlds when choosing gender-neutral clothing.
4. Pay attention to the wording
As much as colors are used to group clothes by genders, another thing you should be on the lookout for is the words printed on the clothes. Getting your child a shirt or a bib that is neutral-colored but has words like “mommy’s little man” or “daddy’s princess” cancels out the whole concept of gender neutrality.
If you insist on having clothes with words, ensure they don’t lean to a particular gender more.
5. Keep it simple
If you are just starting out shopping gender neutral clothes, a safe bet would be to buy simple clothes. Go for pieces with fewer prints and wording.
Also, if you are shopping for a newborn, there is no need to go extra. You can shop for mostly onesies and rompers since they are faster options. The minimalist aesthetic is always a winner and you can never go wrong. Newborns also don’t have an opinion about most things that toddlers would, so you can get away with dressing your child in plain clothes.
6. Go for characters and jerseys
Since a team can be supported by both boys and girls, a sure way to be gender neutral is to get your child a jersey of their favorite team. This is also a great way to get all those cute photos during football or basketball season. Plus, with time, wearing the jersey can even turn into a family tradition that everyone can enjoy.
Cartoon characters are also a perfect way to go if plain clothes seem too boring. Most kids shows and movies make merchandise featuring their characters. If your child is obsessed with some of them, you can get clothes with their favorite characters on them. This is yet another simple way to pick gender-neutral clothes that will make both you and your child happy.
Final Thoughts
With these tips, dressing your little ones in gender neutral clothes should be a walk in the park. With time, you'll also realize that making the switch is one of the best decision you'll ever make. Ready to get started? Start here!
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