At 22 weeks, you may think you have the necessities for your diaper bag down. After all, you’ve been doing this for almost 6 months now. But the older your baby gets, the more those essentials change. For instance… when was the last time you swapped out your spare outfit choices and ensured everything you were carrying would actually fit your baby today?

It’s time to do a diaper bag inventory, and here’s what you should be carrying now:

• Wipes: Because, duh. You’ll be toting these bad boys around even long past the potty training stage.
• Lovie: Having a separate blanket or lovie that you keep just in your diaper bag will give your little one something novel to play with while out and about. This also saves you from having to bring the “favorite” lovie with you everywhere you go; a move that could result in losing that lovie, which would of course be traumatic.
• Spare Clothes: Your little one is either eating solids already, or on the cusp of doing so. Either way, things are about to get messy. Make sure you have spare clothes for your baby, and maybe an extra top for yourself.
• Teething Basics: Those new teeth are coming in, whether your baby likes it or not. Consider carrying around teething biscuits for your little one to munch on, as well as teething toys that can hold them over until you get home to the cold rings in your refrigerator.
• Diaper Baggies: You won’t always be near a trashcan when your baby has a blow out. Keep a few disposable diaper baggies on hand for tying off the evidence until you can find a trashcan.
• Hand Sanitizer: Because… diaper blowouts.
• Snacks: Once your baby starts in on solid foods, you can begin carrying around age appropriate snacks. A baggy full of small healthy snacks can provide a much-needed distraction while out and about, as well as an opportunity for your little one to work on his or her pincer grasp.
• Emergency Contacts: No one ever wants to think about the worst happening, but it is always possible that you could be out and about alone with your baby when something happens to one or both of you (a medical emergency or a car accident, for instance.) Having your emergency contacts readily available in your diaper bag can make it easier for emergency response teams to get ahold of your family and ensure someone can meet you at the hospital.

Think of your diaper bag as your chance to be Mary Poppins. If there is still room in that bag, there is probably something else you could use while out and about. Take advantage of that ability to be extra prepared now: you’re going to be out of the diaper bag days before you know it!

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

It’s exciting when your baby first tries solid foods for the first time. Many parents look forward to seeing how their baby reacts to the new flavors and textures of solid food. If you’re just starting this journey with your baby, you’re probably keen to discover the best way of doing things. If you’ve decided to feed your baby purees some or all of the time, you may be wondering which type is best. Should you be making your own purees at home or is it ok to buy ready made ones from the store?

Store bought purees

Store bought purees are convenient. You don’t need to spend time in the kitchen pureeing up a storm. You can also rely on the fact that the food will be available at supermarkets across the country, so there’s no need to panic about finding something your baby will eat. Store bought purees have long shelf lives and can be stored for a long time, meaning you don’t need to worry about running out.

There are some downsides with using store bought purees, however. They tend to include preservatives and may even include salt or sugar, things that you probably wouldn’t include when making your own purees at home. One research study found that store bought purees contained half as many nutrients as ones made at home. It’s also a lot pricier than creating your own purees at home.

Homemade purees

If you’re making the purees yourself at home, you know exactly what’s going into them. You can leave out any sugar and salt, and include only healthy, wholesome ingredients in your baby’s food. It also allows you to choose the produce going into the puree, so you’ll know that all of the ingredients were fresh at the time of cooking. Homemade purees are a lot cheaper because you simply buy the raw ingredients and can cook in batches and freeze. It also leaves you with more choice, there are only so many different flavors of store bought purees, but you can continue to experiment at home.

It’s not all good, you’ll need to consider the extra time it will take you to make purees at home. You might also need to purchase some new kitchen gadgets to begin with, pushing up your costs. Homemade purees don’t keep for as long, even if frozen.

There is no right answer

As with any parenting decision, there is no right decision here. How you decide to feed your baby is dependent on lots of things. You’ll need to consider time, convenience and cost. There isn’t a one size fits all approach to weaning because every baby, and every family, is different. You need to work out what works best for your family.

What are your baby’s favorite puree flavors?

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

You may have been blessed with a good sleeper or a good night’s sleep may be a distant memory once you became a mom. Either way, your little one is bound to have sleep troubles at least occasionally.

Keep in mind, before you label your baby a problem sleeper, it’s important to understand what’s normal for infants. Although it varies, most babies will not sleep through the night for the first three months, and some babies reach that milestone even later.

Typically, by about three months, your baby probably has settled into a somewhat predictable sleep pattern. Although that pattern can also change as your baby grows.

As your baby gets older, he should be able to sleep six to eight hours straight at night. But there are a lot of things that could interfere with his sleep.

The good news is many sleep problems in babies are just temporary. But that may not be much comfort at 3 a.m. However, understanding the most common causes of sleep problems may help you find a solution.

Your baby’s developmental stage, physical condition or a change in his routine can all lead to problems, which prevent both of you from getting enough zzz’s. For example, some babies develop sleep problems due to separation anxiety, which is a normal developmental milestone. It may help to establish a bedtime routine that includes a lot of cuddling and reading to help your baby feel secure.

In other instances, a physical milestone, such as teething, may keep you both awake at night. Offering a cool teething ring may help soothe her sore gums. Teething pain can get worse at night in some babies. If that is the case, ask your pediatrician about giving baby acetaminophen before bedtime.

Even if your baby had been a good snoozer, she might take a step backward at some point. Sleep regression can occur when your baby learns a new skill like crawling or sitting up. She may have too many other things to do besides sleep. After all, who needs sleep when you just learned to crawl or stand up? A bedtime routine may also help your baby relax and get the hint it’s time to settle down.

Of course, changes in her routine, such as when you go back to work or if you are traveling can interfere with sleep. Also, if your baby has an illness, such as a cold or ear infection, she may have trouble falling or staying asleep. In these type of instances, you may just have to cut your little one some slack when it comes to their sleep schedule. A few extra snuggles and a little patience may be just what your baby needs.

Written by MaryAnn Depietro

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

You probably have plenty of new baby products that you’ve realized over the last few months you didn’t actually need. Sure, the wipes warmer is nice, but your little one doesn’t even really seem to notice the difference when you’re out and about and dare to use un-warmed wipes.

Which begs the question, what products do you need? And what should you be stocking up on as your little one becomes more mobile and nears the solid foods stage?

1. Video Monitor: So technically, a video monitor isn’t a necessity. But ask any mom who has one, and they will tell you how much they love it. It’s just nice to be able to look in on your baby without having to barge into their room. And as your little one gets older, being able to have that eagle eye view will come in even more handy!
2. Quality Stroller: You’ve gotten passed the no-sleep early months, and now it’s time to start using some of that energy you’re regaining to get outside and take care of yourself! Regular walks for you and baby will do you wonders.
3. Baby Carrier: Still, you can’t always bring a stroller with you everywhere you go. Investing in a quality baby carrier will give you a hands free way to keep your baby with you, even if you’re just doing chores around the house.
4. Books: If you haven’t started reading to your baby yet, now is the time to begin working that into your nightly routine. They say one of the best predictors for future literacy is being read to regularly as a child.
5. Convertible Car Seat: You may still be using your bucket seat, but in the months to come, your baby will be outgrowing the height and weight requirements for that. Now is the time to start looking into convertible seat options.
6. Lovie: Your baby is right at the age that he or she will begin developing attachments to toys and blankets. And you want them to have that attachment—a connection with a lovie can mean your baby is more likely to self-soothe at night.
7. Teething toys: Those teeth are coming in, and your baby is going to be looking for options to gnaw on.
8. Bucket Bib: Solid foods are just around the corner. A bucket bib will help to catch what doesn’t make it into your baby’s mouth, which can make cleanup so much easier for you.
9. Fresh Food Feeder: These little mesh feeders are perfect for killing two birds with one stone! Put some frozen berries in the feeder, and your baby will get a solid foods introduction and a teething pain soother!
10. Hand Sanitizer: Because… duh. You’re changing diapers and wiping noses all the time. Hand sanitizer should be with you always.

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Although you love your baby more than you thought possible, the time will come when you might consider an overnight getaway without your little one. For example, you might want to enjoy a romantic night away from home to reconnect with your partner or a fun overnight trip with friends.

But how old should your baby be before you spend your first night apart? The answer is it’s entirely up to you. There is not a set timeframe on when to leave your baby overnight for the first time. You should spend the night apart from your baby when you feel you’re ready.

When you decide the time is right, in order to make the separation as easy as possible, it’s helpful to consider a few factors. For example, choosing a caregiver, such as a close family member, may ease your concerns. It’s also helpful to write down essential information, such as your baby’s feeding and sleep schedule, pediatrician contact information and activities your baby enjoys.

If possible, have your caregiver watch your baby in your home. While bringing your baby to grandma’s house is OK, it might be easier to keep your baby in his own surroundings. That way, you know you’ll baby will have everything he needs and his environment is baby proofed.

For moms who are still breastfeeding, going away for a day or two is still possible. Just pump enough milk in advance and make sure your baby is used to taking milk from a bottle.

When it comes time to head out, try to say goodbye without tears. Your baby may pick up on your emotions and also get upset. Remember, you’re leaving your baby in capable hands, and you’ll be back soon.

Don’t be surprised if you feel a range of emotions the first time you’re away from your baby for the night. For instance, you might feel excited to spend time alone with your partner or friends, but you might also feel a bit guilty for wanting that time. Keep in mind, a night or two away from your baby is nothing to feel guilty about. A quick getaway can help you recharge and have a little adult time.

It’s also natural to miss your little bundle while you’re away. Go ahead and Facetime or Skype to check in and see how your baby is doing. But also, take this opportunity to have a nice glass of wine if you choose, sleep in and have a little fun. After all, you earned it!

Written by Mary Ann DePietro@writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

We all know that in order for our babies to grow and thrive, they need to be taking in nutrition and getting enough sleep. So it can be extremely frustrating when you are doing everything you can to ensure those needs are met, and your little one simply isn’t doing his or her part.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your cool when baby won’t eat.

It’s Normal

Even babies who have always been good eaters will go through periods of time where they are pickier or don’t seem to have as much of an appetite. This can be a completely normal shift, and one that won’t necessarily endure. And if it has endured? If your baby has just always had a reduced appetite? Well, as long as he or she is still growing, even that is probably normal. Though, your pediatrician should make the final call there.

There Are a Lot of Reasons Your Baby May Not Be Eating

And sometimes, it’s just a matter of figuring out what’s going on. Perhaps your little one is feeling sick or has a slowing metabolism after a big growth spurt. He or she may not be ready for solid foods yet, and might have an upset stomach because of that introduction. There are a lot of reasonable explanations for why your baby is refusing food, and many of those explanations will eventually resolve themselves.

Babies Eat When They Are Hungry

If your little one was really hungry, he or she would be eating instead of swatting the breast, bottle, or spoon away. Trust that your baby knows his or her hunger cues, and that if they are pushing food away, they simply aren’t hungry.

Know That You Can (and Should) Always Consult Your Pediatrician

While there are plenty of reasonable explanations for why your baby may not be interested in eating, there are also some that warrant concern, including food allergies and stomach issues. Be sure you are keeping your pediatrician in the loop on your concerns, and don’t be afraid to make a call if you feel your baby is becoming lethargic or truly isn’t getting the nutrients he or she needs.

Go Easy on Yourself

It can be normal to want to control every aspect of your baby’s day, but you can’t force your little one to eat. Remember that you are doing everything you can (including consulting with a pediatrician) and trust that your baby will get what he or she needs to continue thriving. If a medical issue is to blame, there are likely treatment solutions to help. And if your baby is simply going through a picky stage, that too shall pass. You just need to remain calm and continue offering food on a regular schedule.

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Did you know you can tell a lot about a person from their bowel activity? Everything from food sensitivities to digestive health can be found not only in the how often, but also in the consistency and color of what is produced.

Okay, so let’s be honest… none of us wants to think about what our own bowel habits might say about us. We certainly don’t want to think about the bowel habits of our partners. But baby bowels? What they’ve got going on matters. And paying attention can save you all a lot of tears.

First and foremost, let’s get one thing straight: baby gas is totally normal. And in fact, as long as they are passing it, that gas can actually be a sign of relief. But when baby gas starts to build up, causing your little one to bloat or feel pain, it may be time to step in. A gentle tummy massage can sometimes help, and if you are bottle-feeding, watching the angle of the bottle to prevent too many air bubbles from passing through is advisable.

Then there’s diarrhea. In the first few months, soft baby bowel movements are absolutely normal. Remember, you baby isn’t on solid foods yet; so a liquid diet leads to soft poo.

But once those solids begin, diarrhea can be a sign of something wrong, and it can put your baby at risk for dehydration. It’s possible something your baby is eating is actually upsetting their tummy, or that the transition to solids has happened a little too quickly. If you’ve only recently made that transition, consider backing off for a few days and then slowly reintroducing one food at a time. If your baby has been eating solids for a while, and your little one has diarrhea, it’s best to inform your healthcare provider.

Finally, there’s constipation to consider. The frequency of bowel movements can vary just as much for babies as it does for adults. Some may go several times a day, while others may go only every 3 days or so, while still being completely healthy. The real thing to pay attention to is whether your little one seems to be in pain when he or she is trying to pass a bowel movement. Hard, black stools that cause discomfort for your baby are a sign of constipation, and are also a reason to talk to your doctor. It could be that the addition of prune or pear juice is all that is needed to get things moving again, but finding the root cause will likely be beneficial over the long-term.

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.