Bringing up a child is a very rewarding experience. But it is a challenging job, one that has tremendous responsibilities. It is a complex task and a lot of patience and understanding is required to give a good upbringing to the child. 
A child's behavior and needs change in different stages of his life. A toddler's needs are different from a pre-teen's and a teenager has his own set of unique needs. A parent needs to understand the wants and needs of his young one. The role of a parent is of utmost importance as the child looks up to his parents. Therefore it is essential for parents to monitor the behavior of the child, understand his unique needs and come up with solutions to the problems he faces.
In this section, we will focus on the common issues facing pre-schoolers i.e. children from the age group of 2-5 years. We will also dwell on the steps a parent needs to take for a child's well being. A healthy parent-child relationship will ultimately reflect on the child making him a well-rounded individual.
Here are a few common behavioral problems that a child faces:
Shyness
Hyperactivity
Eating Problems
Temper Tantrums
Phobias or Fears
Shyness
Does your child tuck her head into your shoulder when a relative or a friend gets too close or does she hold back from joining group activities? Shyness is extremely common among 2-3 year olds. It is believed that a child's behavior patterns are a result of both genetic and environmental influences. Some children feel comfortable around peers but not around adults and sometimes it is vice-versa. But with a little bit of understanding, your child can come out of her shell. This is what you can do:
Initially, stick with activities that involve smaller groups and quiet or familiar
environments. At a later stage, expose the child to unfamiliar settings and people.
Any time your toddler reaches out to make a friend or join in an activity, praise her efforts no matter how tentative.
Prevent labelling of the children as "shy". Otherwise she will come to believe it. Teach the children to identify and verbally express their emotions.
Hyperactivity
While some children sit quietly, some are exactly the opposite - they are hyperactive. They want to do something all the time - like running around or talking incessantly.
Their energy is boundless so they are hyperactive.
Reason:
Most of the time, children are hyperactive because they are bored.
Solution:
It is essential to get the child involved in some activity that is interesting and captures his attention. It should be something which is fun and also a learning experience.
He can also be given small jobs around the house through which he can help his dad and mom.
Eating Problems
The dining table can see several wars between an unwilling eater (your child) and an aggressive feeder (you)! The problem can be easily dealt with if you accept the fact that the child will eat when she is hungry. Here are a few tips to deal with a child's eating problems:
Reduce the intake of the main meals if your child has snacked in between.
Don't try to make her hungry and force her to eat just to fit it into your routine! Try
and be a little flexible about the time.
Try to eat with the child - "I will eat one spoon and you will eat one too."
Arrange the food in the shape of a car or castle and spin a story around it to get the
child to eat. Avoid scary stories.
Temper Tantrums
Temper tantrums are common in young children and are a part of the growing up process.
Reasons:
The reasons could range from tiredness to anxiety or hunger. It could also be due to some changes at home or on account of sibling rivalry. Sometimes a child cannot express his feelings properly resulting in anger at himself or at you for not understanding. There are times when he throws temper tantrums due to some physical ailment. Of course, sometimes when you deny him something that he wants, he might throw a tantrum.
It is essential to find out the cause and then address the problem.
Solution:
Set a good example for your child. Avoid arguing or yelling in front of the child.
Try to remain calm. If you shout or become angry, it is likely to make things worse.
The more attention you give this behavior, the more likely it is to happen again.
As tempting as it can be, do not reward your child for stopping a tantrum.
Rewards may teach your child that a temper tantrum will help her get her way.
Distract your child from activities likely to lead to a tantrum. Suggest different
activities. If you are indoors, try taking your child outside to distract his attention.
Make sure your child is well rested, especially before a busy day or stressful activity.
Phobias or Fears
Most children as well as some adults face a variety of fears or phobias. Sometimes these fears do not cause a major problem in day-to-day life but sometimes they are cause for concern as it disrupts the rhythm of life. Some of the common phobias faced by children are:
Fear of the dark:
This fear is common in children between the ages of two and six. It is not actually the darkness that they fear; a child is frightened of the things he supposes are prowling around in the dark. When the child gets afraid at night, turn on the lights and search together for the things he is afraid of to assure him that it is not there. Sometimes the shadows that he sees at night also instil fear in the child. Show the child how these shadows are cast - in fact you can make animal shadows together with your hands -
this will convince him of their harmlessness. This should help them cope successfully
with the fear.
Fear of water:
Some children hesitate to enter water. Do not throw the child in the water in order for him to get over his fear and do not shame him into doing it. It is essential to avoid putting any pressure on the child. Let him play on the beach or the bank till he gets the confidence. What could strengthen his resolve further would be to see you enjoying in the water. Of course it is essential to keep a watch on your child in the water.
Fear of doctor or medicines:
Very often children are frightened of taking injections and medicines. As a rule, if very little is said about the whole thing, the child may accept the medication as a matter of course. But if he is still hesitant about that injection, tell him that the injection will make him healthy once again and that after he is fit you can do many fun things together.
As for medicines, you can crush the pills and put it in a syrup as per the advice of the doctor. You can also hide the small pills in bread, disguising the taste with some strong and accepted flavour like honey.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Parenting Tips
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Constipation
Parents often worry unnecessarily!
Parents OFTEN become concerned about infant constipation when they observe NORMAL changes in their baby's bowel habits and behavior, which COMMONLY occur around 2 - 6 weeks of age. It's around this age that the FREQUENCY of babies' bowel motions often DECREASES, (this being more obvious in breastfed babies). It is ALSO around this age that many babies are first observed to 'STRAIN' when having a bowel motion OR passing gas.
Unfortunately, these changes frequently occur at a time when MANY infants are becoming increasingly IRRITABLE and so parents naturally assume there is a connection. However, in MOST situations changes in bowel habits have NOTHING to do with an infant's irritable behavior.
It's NOT the FREQUENCY of bowel motions or STRAINING that determines if your baby is constipated; it's the CONSISTENCY of his stools.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is infant constipation?
A baby is considered to be constipated if his poop is FIRM, DRY and PEBBLY! Crying while having a bowel motion, bleeding from the anus, abdominal pain and reduced appetite can ALSO be signs a baby is constipated.
If your baby's poop is fluid, soft OR paste consistency, then he's NOT constipated.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What normal infant stools look like
When your baby is breastfed
CONSISTENCY: Soft or runny.
COLOR: Yellow, mustard to orange with little white flecks that look like seeds.
FREQUENCY: Can vary from EVERY feed to ONCE every week or so.
When your baby is bottle fed
CONSISTENCY: Soft paste.
COLOR: Grayish green, yellow, tan OR brown, depending on the type of formula.
FREQUENCY: Once (sometimes twice) every 1 or 2 days.
When your baby is eating solid food
CONSISTENCY: Paste to formed stools. Often contains undigested food.
COLOR: Can VARY depending on WHAT has been eaten.
FREQUENCY: Can be less frequent - particularly for a breastfed baby.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why the frequency of stools change
A DECREASE in the number of times your baby poops DOESN'T necessarily mean he's constipated!
A DECREASE in the frequency of bowel motions is OFTEN noticeable around 4 weeks of age, particularly when a baby is breastfed. As your baby's digestive system matures his body is BETTER able to digest and absorb the many nutrients in milk (breast or formula) and as a result there in LESS waste (poop).
It is around this time that a mother's breast milk supply settles to meet her baby's needs, so this also results is less poop. (Nursing mother's often have an ABUNDANCE of breast milk during the early weeks of breastfeeding.)
A reduction in the number of of bowel motions of a formula fed baby may also be seen around this age. However, it generally LESS obvious than changes seen in fully breastfed infants.
OTHER TIMES where a change in the AMOUNT and HOW OFTEN a baby poops, may occur as a result of changes in diet. A sudden change in the frequency of bowel motions is COMMONLY seen when...
A baby is switched from breast milk to formula.
The type of formula is changed.
A baby first starts to eat solid foods.
The amount of solid foods is increased.
When a baby is first introduced to regular cow's milk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why babies strain!
STRAINING alone is NOT a sign of constipation!
Adults strain when they are constipated, so it's natural to assume your baby's straining is due to constipation. However, straining is NORMAL behavior for infants, particularly during the early weeks of life, and is NOT a sign of constipation UNLESS bowel motions are FIRM, DRY and PEBBLY.
Young babies OFTEN strain due to the effects of the gastro-colic reflex and the defecation reflex. (See infant reflexes for more information). The 'straining' action helps to move stools through your baby's intestines.
Grunting, groaning and going red in the face while having a bowel motion (fluid or paste consistency) OR passing gas is COMMONLY seen in infants around 4 - 6 weeks of age. It is at this age your baby is becoming more aware of his body sensations and he is learning to gain some control over his body movements (that will eventually be necessary to voluntarily control his bowel motions in the future).
As your baby strains he's also learning which muscles do what and how much effort is needed to poop. He may use a little MORE effort than necessary to begin with, but after a few weeks of practice he will become a 'poop expert' and straining will settle.
Straining may also occurs at times when your baby is learning to pass a LARGER or slightly THICKER consistency stool than he's used to. This often occurs if his diet is changed such as, changing from breast milk to formula OR when he starts on solid foods. This is also NORMAL and generally settles in a week or so.
Straining is normal - CRYING while having a bowel motion is NOT!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What causes infant constipation?
Insufficient fluid
New foods
Low fiber
Different types of formula
Medications
1. Insufficient fluid
Is your baby gaining enough weight for his age?
Does he provide you with 6 or more wet diapers each day?
Are you making his formula correctly?
If he has started on solid foods, are you offering him additional water?
If the answer is NO, he may NOT be getting ENOUGH fluid in the form of breast milk, formula or water and this can lead to constipation.
It is RARE for a thriving, FULLY breastfed baby to become constipated. Your breastfed baby does NOT need to be offered water BEFORE he starts eating solid foods. Water or other fluids should NOT replace breast milk.
Depending on the climate, your formula fed baby may NEED extra fluids BEFORE he starts on solid foods. If you live in a warm climate, offering your baby water (in addition to formula) is often recommended at an earlier age.
Check how you prepare your baby's formula. Incorrect preparation of formula can result in an insufficient water ratio which can cause constipation. (See Preparing and warming formula for more information.)
2. New foods
It's common for a breastfed baby to experience constipation for the first time when solid foods are introduced into his diet OR if he is switched from breast milk to infant formula. His little body is just NOT used to digesting anything other than breast milk. Introduce new foods slowly to allow time for him to adjust.
Some FOODS are more constipating than others for both breastfed and formula fed infants. These include cheese, ice-cream, yogurt, white bread, spaghetti, macaroni, white rice, banana, green apples, cooked carrots, corn, turnips and potatoes. SMALL amounts of these foods will generally NOT cause a problem, but LARGER amounts may result in constipation.
4. Low fiber
Fiber is only found in plant foods such as cereals, fruits and vegetables. Babies over 6 months with high intakes of formula or cow's milk (only recommended after 12 months) often experience constipation. It's NOT the milk itself that causes this, it's simply that the child fills up on milk which means he will have LIMITED appetite for other foods that provide fiber.
4. Different types of formula
Formula fed babies are MORE at risk of becoming constipated than are breastfed babies.
Some TYPES of infant formula can be more constipating than others. Casein dominant formula, lactose-free formula, AR (anti regurgitation) and thickened formulas can be more constipating for SOME babies. Variations can also occur between different BRANDS of the same type of formula.
Switching formula (or switching to cow's milk) can lead to changes in stool consistency, resulting in EITHER constipation OR loose runny stools. Most often this change is only temporary, until your baby's little tummy gets used to the new formula. (We recommend you rule out OTHER reasons for constipation BEFORE switching formula.)
5. Medications
Common medications given to babies can sometimes cause constipation.
Pain-killers containing paracetamol, acetaminophen and ibuprophen.
Antibiotics.
Antacids containing alumimum.
Iron supplements.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When to treat infant constipation
Most babies are NOT truly constipated unless they experience all of the following...
Firm, dry pebbly stools.
No bowel motions for 2-3 days for formula fed babies OR 7-10 days for breastfed babies*; and
Strains and cries while having a bowel motion.
Unless your little one has a problem with ALL THREE, he's probably NOT constipated and you needn't do anything. If your baby is constipated, treatment may be necessary. We suggest you start with 'natural remedies' first.
*It is RARE for a fully breastfed baby to become constipated prior to starting solids. 7-10 days without a bowel movement can be very normal where a baby is ONLY offered breast milk. Breast milk is the perfect food for babies and very little is left to waste. Breast milk also has a natural laxative effect that helps protect your baby against constipation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural remedies
Water
Sugar e.g. brown sugar OR corn syrup (Karo)
Fruit juice
Fruit
Probiotics
1. Water
Increasing the amount of water your offer your baby is often more EFFECTIVE than adding sugars to his diet. For babies less than 6 months old offer 1 oz of cooled boiled water, once or twice a day. For babies over 6 months offer 2 oz, once or twice a day.
2. Sugar
A remedy for constipation that has been around for centuries and still recommended today, is to add some form of sugar to a baby's diet. The sugar works by drawing additional fluid into the baby's bowel to soften the stools. Sugar can come from fruit, in the form of fructose or sorbitol or sucrose from sugar cane.
It's frequently recommended to add some form of sugar (particularly brown sugar) OR corn syrup (Karo syrup) to baby's formula. RATHER than do this, we suggest you offer it in a small amount of cooled, boiled water for two reasons...
The additional water is helpful; and
Your baby may fuss with feeding once the sugar is stopped.
In the past honey was recommended as a treatment for constipation. However, it is no NO longer recommended for children under the age of 12 months because of the associated risk of botulism (a gastro-intestinal illness).
BROWN SUGAR
Add 1/2 teaspoon of brown sugar (the one used for cooking) to 1 oz of cooled boiled water. Offer this to your baby 3 times a day, directly before formula feeds, until his poop is soft and then stop.
*Although brown sugar is recommended because it contains molasses, white sugar would do.
CORN SYRUP
Corn syprup is mildly sweet, concentrated solution of sugares derived from corn starch. A common brand is Karo.
Add 1 teaspoon of Karo syrup to 4oz of cooled boiled water. Offer 1 oz of this solution to your baby from a bottle, just before his formula feeds, twice per day until his poop is soft then stop.
CAUTION: ONLY add sugar OR corn syrup to your little one's diet, if you are treating constipation, NOT both.
3. Fruit Juice
Apple, pear or prune or pear can be very effective at relieving constipation. To begin with dilute the juice to 1/4 strength by adding cooled, boiled water. Slowly increase the concentration to 1/2 strength if necessary.
If your baby is aged 3 - 6 months, offer 1 oz of diluted juice (2 oz if he's over 6 months). Offer this twice a day until his poop is soft. Give less rather than more to start with as too much juice can result in abdominal gas, bloating and diarrhea. (See Carbohydrate malabsorption for more information.)
CAUTION:
DO NOT treat infant constipation with diluted juice AND addition sugars (including Karo) at the same time. Choose ONLY one treatment.
Diluted fruit juice as a treatment for constipation is NOT recommended for babies less than 3 months old.
It is NOT recommended to offer fruit juice on a regular basis to babies less than 3 months.
4. Fruit & vegetables
If your baby has started eating solids, include MORE fruit and vegetables to his diet, as this may help to reduce the chance of constipation developing in the first place.
Bananas and apple sauce can result in FIRMER stools. Carrots and squash are constipating for some babies. Prunes, peaches, pears, plums, apricots and peas make stools softer. Colored vegetables tend to help, where as white vegetables can be constipating for some babies.
If your baby is under 9 months AVOID citrus fruits such a orange, grapefruit and pineapple, as the acid content in these fruits can be harsh on little tummies, as well as the skin around his mouth and bottom (when it comes out).
5. Probiotics
In recent decades, there has been much research into the benefits of maintaining a healthy intestinal microflora. Healthy intestinal flora include friendly microorganisms. The main source of friendly microorganisms in a baby's intestinal flora is bifidobacteria. Formula fed babies have only approx 25% of bifidobacteria in their intestines compared to 95% in the intestines of breastfed babies.
Probiotics involve providing live non-pathogenic microorganisms that improve the balance of intestinal microflora. Drinking infant formula with probiotics changes a formula fed baby's intestinal flora to be closer to that of a breastfed baby. Studies have shown probiotic infant formula may soften a baby's stools, decrease nappy rash and provide some protection against gastroenteritis.
Some countries produce infant formulas that include probiotics. (You will find the formula label is clearly marked if it contains probiotics). You can also purchase bifidobacteria from health food stores, which can be added to regular infant formula. Discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting your baby on probiotics.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medications
Laxatives
Laxatives are ONLY necessary if 'natural remedies' have failed OR where constipation is severe. Although many different types of laxatives can be purchases over-the-counter, most laxatives are NOT suitable for babies and small children. If you feel your baby needs a laxative to relieve his constipation, we recommend you consult with your baby's doctor about a SUITABLE treatment.
Different laxatives work in different ways
Some simply soften the stool.
Others act as a peristaltic stimulant (in other words they stimulate the natural contractions of the bowel in order to push the stoools out).
Some offer a combination of softener with peristaltic stimulant
Others offer additional fiber.
Laxative can be given to babies ORALLY, in the form of drops or ANALLY by a suppository or enema.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BabycareAdvice.com treatment recommendations
Babies under 2 months
Check formula preparation.
Offer additional water.
Try brown sugar in water OR Karo syrup in water.
Change infant formula if constipation continues.
Babies between 2-6 months
Check formula preparation.
Offer additional water.
Try brown sugar in water OR Karo syrup in water OR diluted fruit juice.
Reduce the amount of solids offered (if you have already started your baby on solids).
Increase fruits and vegetables.
Offer fruit WITH cereal.
Reduce constipating foods.
Babies over 6 months
Offer baby a mixed grain cereal.
Offer DILUTED fruit juice.
Increase the amount of fruit and vegetables offered daily.
Reduce constipating foods.
Change back to a 'starter' formula if you have recently switched to a 'follow-on' formula.
Children over 12 months
Offer plenty of water.
Check milk intake. Decrease the amount to 24 oz per day OR less if custard, yogurt or cheese is offered.
Increase your child's activity.
Offer diluted fruit juice.
Increase the amount of fruit and vegetables offered daily.
If your child is toilet trained or in the process of toilet training, encourage regular toilet times OR sit your child on the potty after meals.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to do when your baby strains
It's NOT necessary for you do anything when your baby strains while trying to poop. However, if you feel he is staining because of constipation (i.e. firm, dry pebbly poop) you may find lifting his knees to his chest, which is a natural squatting position, by holding his ankles can help him to exert enough pressure to push it out.
Alternate this with gently moving his legs backwards and forwards in a 'bicycle' movement. Also try...
A warm bath.
A tummy massage.
Tummy massage
Your baby's large bowel sits in his abdomen in one large loop. Stools travel in a clockwise direction (clockwise as you face him). To assist him to expel gas that can occur with constipation, it's best to follow the natural path of his large bowel.
Put some oil on your hands and gently but firmly massage his abdomen in a clockwise direction using long stroking actions. Alternate this with lifting his knees and the 'bicycle' movement.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When to see a doctor
If your baby cries while straining.
If constipation remains a persistent problem.
If your baby is not gaining weight.
If the number of wet diapers each day is less than 6.
If your baby's poop looks unusual or has blood in it.
If you notice any bleeding from his anus.
For advice on suitable laxatives.
*Constipation in infants is rarely due to excess iron. Low iron formula should only be given if recommended by your doctor.
Written by Rowena Bennett
RN, RM, RPN, CHN, Grad Dip Health Promotion.
Parents OFTEN become concerned about infant constipation when they observe NORMAL changes in their baby's bowel habits and behavior, which COMMONLY occur around 2 - 6 weeks of age. It's around this age that the FREQUENCY of babies' bowel motions often DECREASES, (this being more obvious in breastfed babies). It is ALSO around this age that many babies are first observed to 'STRAIN' when having a bowel motion OR passing gas.
Unfortunately, these changes frequently occur at a time when MANY infants are becoming increasingly IRRITABLE and so parents naturally assume there is a connection. However, in MOST situations changes in bowel habits have NOTHING to do with an infant's irritable behavior.
It's NOT the FREQUENCY of bowel motions or STRAINING that determines if your baby is constipated; it's the CONSISTENCY of his stools.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is infant constipation?
A baby is considered to be constipated if his poop is FIRM, DRY and PEBBLY! Crying while having a bowel motion, bleeding from the anus, abdominal pain and reduced appetite can ALSO be signs a baby is constipated.
If your baby's poop is fluid, soft OR paste consistency, then he's NOT constipated.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What normal infant stools look like
When your baby is breastfed
CONSISTENCY: Soft or runny.
COLOR: Yellow, mustard to orange with little white flecks that look like seeds.
FREQUENCY: Can vary from EVERY feed to ONCE every week or so.
When your baby is bottle fed
CONSISTENCY: Soft paste.
COLOR: Grayish green, yellow, tan OR brown, depending on the type of formula.
FREQUENCY: Once (sometimes twice) every 1 or 2 days.
When your baby is eating solid food
CONSISTENCY: Paste to formed stools. Often contains undigested food.
COLOR: Can VARY depending on WHAT has been eaten.
FREQUENCY: Can be less frequent - particularly for a breastfed baby.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why the frequency of stools change
A DECREASE in the number of times your baby poops DOESN'T necessarily mean he's constipated!
A DECREASE in the frequency of bowel motions is OFTEN noticeable around 4 weeks of age, particularly when a baby is breastfed. As your baby's digestive system matures his body is BETTER able to digest and absorb the many nutrients in milk (breast or formula) and as a result there in LESS waste (poop).
It is around this time that a mother's breast milk supply settles to meet her baby's needs, so this also results is less poop. (Nursing mother's often have an ABUNDANCE of breast milk during the early weeks of breastfeeding.)
A reduction in the number of of bowel motions of a formula fed baby may also be seen around this age. However, it generally LESS obvious than changes seen in fully breastfed infants.
OTHER TIMES where a change in the AMOUNT and HOW OFTEN a baby poops, may occur as a result of changes in diet. A sudden change in the frequency of bowel motions is COMMONLY seen when...
A baby is switched from breast milk to formula.
The type of formula is changed.
A baby first starts to eat solid foods.
The amount of solid foods is increased.
When a baby is first introduced to regular cow's milk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why babies strain!
STRAINING alone is NOT a sign of constipation!
Adults strain when they are constipated, so it's natural to assume your baby's straining is due to constipation. However, straining is NORMAL behavior for infants, particularly during the early weeks of life, and is NOT a sign of constipation UNLESS bowel motions are FIRM, DRY and PEBBLY.
Young babies OFTEN strain due to the effects of the gastro-colic reflex and the defecation reflex. (See infant reflexes for more information). The 'straining' action helps to move stools through your baby's intestines.
Grunting, groaning and going red in the face while having a bowel motion (fluid or paste consistency) OR passing gas is COMMONLY seen in infants around 4 - 6 weeks of age. It is at this age your baby is becoming more aware of his body sensations and he is learning to gain some control over his body movements (that will eventually be necessary to voluntarily control his bowel motions in the future).
As your baby strains he's also learning which muscles do what and how much effort is needed to poop. He may use a little MORE effort than necessary to begin with, but after a few weeks of practice he will become a 'poop expert' and straining will settle.
Straining may also occurs at times when your baby is learning to pass a LARGER or slightly THICKER consistency stool than he's used to. This often occurs if his diet is changed such as, changing from breast milk to formula OR when he starts on solid foods. This is also NORMAL and generally settles in a week or so.
Straining is normal - CRYING while having a bowel motion is NOT!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What causes infant constipation?
Insufficient fluid
New foods
Low fiber
Different types of formula
Medications
1. Insufficient fluid
Is your baby gaining enough weight for his age?
Does he provide you with 6 or more wet diapers each day?
Are you making his formula correctly?
If he has started on solid foods, are you offering him additional water?
If the answer is NO, he may NOT be getting ENOUGH fluid in the form of breast milk, formula or water and this can lead to constipation.
It is RARE for a thriving, FULLY breastfed baby to become constipated. Your breastfed baby does NOT need to be offered water BEFORE he starts eating solid foods. Water or other fluids should NOT replace breast milk.
Depending on the climate, your formula fed baby may NEED extra fluids BEFORE he starts on solid foods. If you live in a warm climate, offering your baby water (in addition to formula) is often recommended at an earlier age.
Check how you prepare your baby's formula. Incorrect preparation of formula can result in an insufficient water ratio which can cause constipation. (See Preparing and warming formula for more information.)
2. New foods
It's common for a breastfed baby to experience constipation for the first time when solid foods are introduced into his diet OR if he is switched from breast milk to infant formula. His little body is just NOT used to digesting anything other than breast milk. Introduce new foods slowly to allow time for him to adjust.
Some FOODS are more constipating than others for both breastfed and formula fed infants. These include cheese, ice-cream, yogurt, white bread, spaghetti, macaroni, white rice, banana, green apples, cooked carrots, corn, turnips and potatoes. SMALL amounts of these foods will generally NOT cause a problem, but LARGER amounts may result in constipation.
4. Low fiber
Fiber is only found in plant foods such as cereals, fruits and vegetables. Babies over 6 months with high intakes of formula or cow's milk (only recommended after 12 months) often experience constipation. It's NOT the milk itself that causes this, it's simply that the child fills up on milk which means he will have LIMITED appetite for other foods that provide fiber.
4. Different types of formula
Formula fed babies are MORE at risk of becoming constipated than are breastfed babies.
Some TYPES of infant formula can be more constipating than others. Casein dominant formula, lactose-free formula, AR (anti regurgitation) and thickened formulas can be more constipating for SOME babies. Variations can also occur between different BRANDS of the same type of formula.
Switching formula (or switching to cow's milk) can lead to changes in stool consistency, resulting in EITHER constipation OR loose runny stools. Most often this change is only temporary, until your baby's little tummy gets used to the new formula. (We recommend you rule out OTHER reasons for constipation BEFORE switching formula.)
5. Medications
Common medications given to babies can sometimes cause constipation.
Pain-killers containing paracetamol, acetaminophen and ibuprophen.
Antibiotics.
Antacids containing alumimum.
Iron supplements.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When to treat infant constipation
Most babies are NOT truly constipated unless they experience all of the following...
Firm, dry pebbly stools.
No bowel motions for 2-3 days for formula fed babies OR 7-10 days for breastfed babies*; and
Strains and cries while having a bowel motion.
Unless your little one has a problem with ALL THREE, he's probably NOT constipated and you needn't do anything. If your baby is constipated, treatment may be necessary. We suggest you start with 'natural remedies' first.
*It is RARE for a fully breastfed baby to become constipated prior to starting solids. 7-10 days without a bowel movement can be very normal where a baby is ONLY offered breast milk. Breast milk is the perfect food for babies and very little is left to waste. Breast milk also has a natural laxative effect that helps protect your baby against constipation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural remedies
Water
Sugar e.g. brown sugar OR corn syrup (Karo)
Fruit juice
Fruit
Probiotics
1. Water
Increasing the amount of water your offer your baby is often more EFFECTIVE than adding sugars to his diet. For babies less than 6 months old offer 1 oz of cooled boiled water, once or twice a day. For babies over 6 months offer 2 oz, once or twice a day.
2. Sugar
A remedy for constipation that has been around for centuries and still recommended today, is to add some form of sugar to a baby's diet. The sugar works by drawing additional fluid into the baby's bowel to soften the stools. Sugar can come from fruit, in the form of fructose or sorbitol or sucrose from sugar cane.
It's frequently recommended to add some form of sugar (particularly brown sugar) OR corn syrup (Karo syrup) to baby's formula. RATHER than do this, we suggest you offer it in a small amount of cooled, boiled water for two reasons...
The additional water is helpful; and
Your baby may fuss with feeding once the sugar is stopped.
In the past honey was recommended as a treatment for constipation. However, it is no NO longer recommended for children under the age of 12 months because of the associated risk of botulism (a gastro-intestinal illness).
BROWN SUGAR
Add 1/2 teaspoon of brown sugar (the one used for cooking) to 1 oz of cooled boiled water. Offer this to your baby 3 times a day, directly before formula feeds, until his poop is soft and then stop.
*Although brown sugar is recommended because it contains molasses, white sugar would do.
CORN SYRUP
Corn syprup is mildly sweet, concentrated solution of sugares derived from corn starch. A common brand is Karo.
Add 1 teaspoon of Karo syrup to 4oz of cooled boiled water. Offer 1 oz of this solution to your baby from a bottle, just before his formula feeds, twice per day until his poop is soft then stop.
CAUTION: ONLY add sugar OR corn syrup to your little one's diet, if you are treating constipation, NOT both.
3. Fruit Juice
Apple, pear or prune or pear can be very effective at relieving constipation. To begin with dilute the juice to 1/4 strength by adding cooled, boiled water. Slowly increase the concentration to 1/2 strength if necessary.
If your baby is aged 3 - 6 months, offer 1 oz of diluted juice (2 oz if he's over 6 months). Offer this twice a day until his poop is soft. Give less rather than more to start with as too much juice can result in abdominal gas, bloating and diarrhea. (See Carbohydrate malabsorption for more information.)
CAUTION:
DO NOT treat infant constipation with diluted juice AND addition sugars (including Karo) at the same time. Choose ONLY one treatment.
Diluted fruit juice as a treatment for constipation is NOT recommended for babies less than 3 months old.
It is NOT recommended to offer fruit juice on a regular basis to babies less than 3 months.
4. Fruit & vegetables
If your baby has started eating solids, include MORE fruit and vegetables to his diet, as this may help to reduce the chance of constipation developing in the first place.
Bananas and apple sauce can result in FIRMER stools. Carrots and squash are constipating for some babies. Prunes, peaches, pears, plums, apricots and peas make stools softer. Colored vegetables tend to help, where as white vegetables can be constipating for some babies.
If your baby is under 9 months AVOID citrus fruits such a orange, grapefruit and pineapple, as the acid content in these fruits can be harsh on little tummies, as well as the skin around his mouth and bottom (when it comes out).
5. Probiotics
In recent decades, there has been much research into the benefits of maintaining a healthy intestinal microflora. Healthy intestinal flora include friendly microorganisms. The main source of friendly microorganisms in a baby's intestinal flora is bifidobacteria. Formula fed babies have only approx 25% of bifidobacteria in their intestines compared to 95% in the intestines of breastfed babies.
Probiotics involve providing live non-pathogenic microorganisms that improve the balance of intestinal microflora. Drinking infant formula with probiotics changes a formula fed baby's intestinal flora to be closer to that of a breastfed baby. Studies have shown probiotic infant formula may soften a baby's stools, decrease nappy rash and provide some protection against gastroenteritis.
Some countries produce infant formulas that include probiotics. (You will find the formula label is clearly marked if it contains probiotics). You can also purchase bifidobacteria from health food stores, which can be added to regular infant formula. Discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting your baby on probiotics.
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Medications
Laxatives
Laxatives are ONLY necessary if 'natural remedies' have failed OR where constipation is severe. Although many different types of laxatives can be purchases over-the-counter, most laxatives are NOT suitable for babies and small children. If you feel your baby needs a laxative to relieve his constipation, we recommend you consult with your baby's doctor about a SUITABLE treatment.
Different laxatives work in different ways
Some simply soften the stool.
Others act as a peristaltic stimulant (in other words they stimulate the natural contractions of the bowel in order to push the stoools out).
Some offer a combination of softener with peristaltic stimulant
Others offer additional fiber.
Laxative can be given to babies ORALLY, in the form of drops or ANALLY by a suppository or enema.
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BabycareAdvice.com treatment recommendations
Babies under 2 months
Check formula preparation.
Offer additional water.
Try brown sugar in water OR Karo syrup in water.
Change infant formula if constipation continues.
Babies between 2-6 months
Check formula preparation.
Offer additional water.
Try brown sugar in water OR Karo syrup in water OR diluted fruit juice.
Reduce the amount of solids offered (if you have already started your baby on solids).
Increase fruits and vegetables.
Offer fruit WITH cereal.
Reduce constipating foods.
Babies over 6 months
Offer baby a mixed grain cereal.
Offer DILUTED fruit juice.
Increase the amount of fruit and vegetables offered daily.
Reduce constipating foods.
Change back to a 'starter' formula if you have recently switched to a 'follow-on' formula.
Children over 12 months
Offer plenty of water.
Check milk intake. Decrease the amount to 24 oz per day OR less if custard, yogurt or cheese is offered.
Increase your child's activity.
Offer diluted fruit juice.
Increase the amount of fruit and vegetables offered daily.
If your child is toilet trained or in the process of toilet training, encourage regular toilet times OR sit your child on the potty after meals.
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What to do when your baby strains
It's NOT necessary for you do anything when your baby strains while trying to poop. However, if you feel he is staining because of constipation (i.e. firm, dry pebbly poop) you may find lifting his knees to his chest, which is a natural squatting position, by holding his ankles can help him to exert enough pressure to push it out.
Alternate this with gently moving his legs backwards and forwards in a 'bicycle' movement. Also try...
A warm bath.
A tummy massage.
Tummy massage
Your baby's large bowel sits in his abdomen in one large loop. Stools travel in a clockwise direction (clockwise as you face him). To assist him to expel gas that can occur with constipation, it's best to follow the natural path of his large bowel.
Put some oil on your hands and gently but firmly massage his abdomen in a clockwise direction using long stroking actions. Alternate this with lifting his knees and the 'bicycle' movement.
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When to see a doctor
If your baby cries while straining.
If constipation remains a persistent problem.
If your baby is not gaining weight.
If the number of wet diapers each day is less than 6.
If your baby's poop looks unusual or has blood in it.
If you notice any bleeding from his anus.
For advice on suitable laxatives.
*Constipation in infants is rarely due to excess iron. Low iron formula should only be given if recommended by your doctor.
Written by Rowena Bennett
RN, RM, RPN, CHN, Grad Dip Health Promotion.
Monday, March 31, 2008
What do I do when my toddler wants to act like a baby again?
My daughter's started acting like a baby again. She wants to be cradled like a baby and sometimes asks for a bottle. Is something wrong?
Expert Answers
Susanne Ayers Denham, developmental psychologist
Expert Answers
Susanne Ayers Denham, developmental psychologist
Probably not. Her memory may be developing, and she may start recalling some parts of her babyhood and how good it felt to be cared for as an infant. Plus, pretending to be a baby for a while can be fun. It certainly has its benefits, like receiving your undivided attention and snuggling in your arms.
One explanation could be that your daughter's reacting to change by retreating to a safer and more secure past. Many toddlers regress when there's been a shift in their routine. Has your child recently acquired a new sibling or started preschool for the first time? Or are you planning a move, or having problems with your partner? Any of these life changes can upset a toddler's budding sense of control, triggering babyish behavior. If so, try to alleviate the tension she feels with lots of hugs, attention, and time with you. When things settle down, she will, too.
Your toddler may also be trying to tell you that she's stressed out by trying to be a "big girl" before she's ready. If she has previously ditched the bottle and now insists on one when she's at home, it could be a sign that she's overwhelmed by trying to be independent too quickly. Try scaling back your expectations. Instead of requiring her to clean up her mess herself, for example, help her straighten her room. If she's having trouble dressing herself, offer to help out until she feels comfortable. When she asks for a bottle, try distracting her to see if she forgets her request. If she persists, you may want to let her have it once in a while; but instead of making a big fuss about how disappointed you are that she's back to using bottles, praise her when she does use a cup. If you focus on how great it is that she's using her "big-kid" skills instead of how she's acting like a baby again, she'll probably let go of her bottle fixation soon.
But if her attachment to the bottle seems ferociously renewed and shows no signs of dissipating, and is accompanied by other intense and constant baby behavior, such as wanting to be carried all the time, consult your pediatrician to see whether something else might be going on.
If your toddler's regression seems primarily limited to asking for lots of attention — such as wanting to sit on your lap more often or asking you to watch her while she draws — give her the love and attention she craves. Children are entitled to ask for what they need, and sometimes what they need is simply more of you. Toddlers are changing so quickly that they sometimes have to fill up on parental love and affection to shore them up for more of the maturing they do every day. Think of them as travelers preparing for a long trek; throughout their journey through childhood, they need to go to the well (you) from time to time and fill up on the confidence and love they need to do the work of growing up.
You may find that the trickiest part of dealing with your toddler's regression is handling the episodes in front of others. If your child throws a fit and asks for a bottle in front of Grandma and Grandpa, who think she's too old for it, try to make as little of the request as possible. A simple remark that everybody needs a break from being grown up can help put her actions into perspective for those around you.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Smiling Face Of Your Baby
side profile of a baby boy sitting and smiling
close-up of a baby boy smiling
mother holding her daughter, sitting on a sofa
Friday, March 28, 2008
Baby Development - 4 to 12 Months
Your baby is part of the family now and is craving for stimulation!The first three years of a child's life is filled with critical windows of opportunity and it is during the next 8 months that most of your baby's critical stimulation will be necessary in order to make the most out of these sensitive time periods.
Windows of opportunity are time periods when the brain is sensitive to specific stimuli in order to develop important vital senses. If the brain did not receive the stimuli required for proper development during this time, the window of opportunity will close and the child will have to fight against biology to develop these vital brain connections at a later time.
Research have shown that after 3 years of age the important "windows of opportunity" governing intellectual and emotional functioning are programmed to close.
Let's have a quick overview of these windows of opportunity:
Vision: 4 - 8 Months
At 4 months your baby's eyes should both function together and should be able to process color. Your baby should also be able to see right across the room. Use toys and objects of bright contrasting colors for visual stimulation. Visual stimulation and the development of the following skills/senses goes hand in hand:
. Motor skills [View toys that develop gross and fine motor skills]
. Touch [View toys for oral and tactile stimulation - recognizing different surfaces and textures]
. Eye-hand and Eye-foot coordination [View toys that encourage hand-eye and hand-foot coordination development]
Hearing: 4 - 10 Months
Make use of this enhanced sensitivity for sounds by exposing your baby to all kinds of music, a lot of language and speech (talking and reading to your baby) and other means of auditory stimulation.
Newborn Development
Congratulations, the long wait is over and your newborn baby is finally here!As soon as things stabilize you may start to wonder what to do next? What activities can you do with your baby to make the most of those precious waking moments ensuring that you provide a solid foundation for your baby to develop his/her full potential?
Let’s take a quick peek at how a newborn baby develops month by month and then we will add some activities into the mix - setting both of you up for some great educational fun!
Important:
Always keep in mind that every baby develops differently. You will quickly realize once you introduce a new activity, if your baby is ready for it or not. If your baby is turning his face away from you, trying to avoid you - it is most probably an indication that your baby is tired or not ready for the activity you are trying to introduce. If your baby is not ready for an activity - leave it and try it later.
Keep in mind that babies need challenges. Once your baby has mastered something - try introducing an activity that you know are a bit more challenging. Just remember – it is important that you and your baby does not get frustrated during this time, the point is to have fun! If your baby gets frustrated – change to another activity you know he/she will enjoy and try the new activity later. Introduce new activities/concepts when your baby is fresh and responsive.
At birth a baby can normally do the following:
Vision:
See up to about 8 - 10 inches (20 - 25 cm) from his face
Babies see high contrast best and only in black and white when born
Babies love human faces (especially if there is contrast like bearded faces etc)
Round shapes also fascinates new born babies
Hearing:
Although a newborn´s sense of hearing is not as well developed as the sense of smell, touch or taste, it is definitely one of the most important senses to your baby since this is the most likely tool they will use to learn how to communicate.
As a fetus your baby started to hear as early as the 24th week of gestation and yes, mommy´s heartbeat was most probably the first sound your baby heard. No wonder the maternal heartbeat has proven to be very comforting for babies especially when agitated.
A lot of intensive care units use the sound of maternal heartbeat for the treatment of critically ill babies.
Since your unborn baby can hear very well during your last trimester, you should be careful about the sound your baby is exposed to.
Touch:
Touch are one of the most advanced senses that a newborn have and they can feel hot, cold, rough, smooth, soft and firm.
Smell:
Newborns rely on their sense of touch, taste and smell a lot more during those early days than any of their other senses. These senses are the most developed at birth and doesn´t require a lot of effort. The sense of smell is responsible for the bonding that take place between mom and baby and therefore plays a critical role in early emotional development.
A one week old baby has no problem telling the difference between the smell of his/her mommy´s breast milk and that of another woman.
Taste:
A baby´s development of taste starts early on in the womb when they have the privilege of sharing mommy´s food through the chemical substances present in the amniotic fluid.
A newborn can distinguish between salt, sweet, sour and bitter and prefers sweet over sour.
Involuntary Movements:
Your baby is born with a set of involuntary reflexes. By the age of three months these reflexes will be lost else your baby´s development will be delayed.
Rooting Reflex:
Stroke your newborn´s cheek and watch how your baby´s face turns towards the cheek being stroked. Your baby will ´root around´ for a nipple in order to feed.
Moro´s Reflex:
When startled or if your baby feels he is falling, your baby will spread out arms and legs in a star shape and arch her back. This is known as the involuntary Moro´s reflex.
Walking Reflex:
If you hold up your newborn and let his/her feet touch a flat surface, your baby will make step movements.
Grasp Reflex:
Your newborn baby has an involuntary grasp reflex - try putting your fingers against your baby´s palms and watch how he/she will grasp them tightly.'
Darwinian reflex:
If a newborn´s palms are touched, they will make a very tight fist this is an unconscious reflex action called the Darwinian reflex and it disappears within two to three months.
Developmental Milestones Birth to 4 Months of age
Between now and the day that your newborn infant is four months old he or she will most likely reach the developmental milestones displayed below. Use these milestones as your guide to plan some developmental activities into your baby's daily routine in order to provide him/her with the tools and opportunity to work and reach these milestones. Enjoy your baby and have fun. It is amazing how quickly they grow up (you are about to experience it first hand). Make every second with your baby a second to remember.
Birth - 1 Months
Fine Motor Skills: The hands of a newborn baby are closed most of the time and they have little control over them.
As a result of the Darwinian reflex, a newborn infant will grasp at an object placed in their hands, but without any awareness that they are doing so. At some point their hand muscles relax, and they drop the object, equally unaware that they have let it fall.
Babies may begin flailing at objects that interest them by two weeks of age but cannot grasp them.
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Gross Motor Skills: When lying on his tummy - your baby will lift his feet a little and try to bend his knees
When lying on his tummy - Your baby will try to lift his/her head for a second or two. Something that is very difficult because the head is too heavy for his back and neck muscles but still a very important exercise
1 Months - 2 Months
Fine Motor Skills: A newborn baby begin to discover and play with their hands, at first solely by touch, and then, at about three months, by sight as well.
Deliberate grasp remains largely undeveloped.
Babys loves playing with paper - crumbling, tearing etc. This is great exercise for those little hands
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Gross Motor Skills: Developing muscle strength is very important for your baby.
Tummy Time: Your baby should be able to lift his/her head at an angle of 45 degrees for a second or two
By the end of 8 weeks your baby should be able to hold his/her upright for a few seconds when held upright.
Your baby should be uncurled from the fetus position and his/her legs should be able to take his/her body weight for a second.
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Speech: Newborn will start vocalising. (Vocalise is a vocal exercise without words, which is sung on one or more vowel sounds.)
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Social development: Smiles at mother
2 Months - 3 Months
Fine Motor Skills: Hand-eye coordination begins to develop between the ages of two and four months, launching a period of trial-and-error practice at sighting objects and grabbing at them.
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Gross Motor Skills: Your baby may start to support himself a little on his hands, wrists and arms when doing tummy time
Loves moving his/her arms and legs about - kicking and waving
Your baby is still sitting with a curved back
3 Months - 4 Months
Fine Motor Skills: Babies begin to discover and play with their hands by sight.
Your baby will briefly hold a small toy voluntarily when it is placed in his/her hand
Your baby can shake a rattle to hear the noise but can´t pick the rattle up yet.
Your baby will try to reach for toys but will most probably not be able to grasp it since she is still learning to judge distance
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Gross Motor Skills: There is a lot less head lag when your baby is gently pulled into a sitting position by the arms when lying on her back
When baby is on tummy he/she can hold their head up for prolonged periods.
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Vision: Your baby will follow a slow moving toy from side to side.
Your baby will soon start to focus instantly on an object and easily follow the movements.
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Social development: Squeals with pleasure when enjoying something
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Cognitive development: Your baby may start to anticipate coming events. For example, he/she may pull up their knees when placed on a changing table or smile with gleeful anticipation when put in a front pack for an outing.
Vision: Your baby will follow a slow moving toy from side to side.
Your baby will soon start to focus instantly on an object and easily follow the movements.
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Social development: Squeals with pleasure when enjoying something
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Cognitive development: Your baby may start to anticipate coming events. For example, he/she may pull up their knees when placed on a changing table or smile with gleeful anticipation when put in a front pack for an outing.
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