Monday, May 24, 2010

Natural Pain-relief during Birthing

1. Plan ahead

2. Shower during contractions

3. Stay off your back - work with gravity

4. Position - hands & knees, slow dance, rock your hips

5. Avoid induction

6. Stay hydrated and nourished

7. Birthing ball

8. Self-hypnosis (deep relaxation + positive suggestions)

9. Accupressure/Accupuncture

10. Aromatherapy

11. Massage

12. Counter-pressure

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Colic : Prevention & Home Cures

Preventions:
> Burp the baby after each feed

> Keep him in vertical position for 30 minutes after feeding

> Mother should avoid eating "gassy" food :
->daals - toor daal, channa daal, soya beans instead moong daal in better
->veggies - cabbage, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, potatoes

> Mother should add hing (asafoetida) in her diet

> clock-wise movement - gentle massage on the baby's tummy will aid digestion


Cures:
> Gently press baby's thing to the tummy, and make slow cycling motions - will help to pass gas

> Rocking, swaddling, humming, soothing music, will stop the baby from crying

> Boil brown saunf, cool and give baby 1/2 a spoon - also good for the mum

> nutmeg powder in warm water

> walks in fresh garden air - in the evenings

Baby Slings/Carrier - Correct Positions To Carry Your Baby

There are three essential aspects of positioning in a baby carrier.

Baby's legs should always be in a frog position, bottom down knees up, straddling you, with legs up at a 90° angle to the spine. (except for in cradle carries) This is the best, most correct and most desirable position for baby.
Baby should be high and snug in any carrier.
A good baby carrier will mimic the way you hold baby naturally in your arms.
Some other important general points:

Baby should be close to you, not hanging away from you. This keeps your centre of gravity balanced and prevents strain on your back.
Young babies' developing spines should always be supported by the carrier in some way- by having the fabric snug, or Mei-tai strap tied at their back, or carrier straps tightened properly to bring the baby in close. Avoid carriers that cannot do this.
Baby's breathing should never be affected by a carrier. If her chin is touching her chest it will adversely affect her airways and this can be fatal for young and prem babies. Also beware of stale air pockets, baby's face should never be covered by fabric. In a cradle carry babies should be lying facing upwards, not towards you.
Avoid unintentional twists of the carrier fabric, this will create pressure points on you or baby.
Before they are approx 11-12 weeks old, babies' legs are better to be tucked inside the carrier, up underneath them as they would be when you hold them in-arms. The fabric of the carrier will ideally support them enough that their feet are fine and won't get squished. Once you notice they are long and mature enough, you may encourage baby's legs up and straddling your tummy- knees up bottom down, in the frog position mentioned above.
Positioning in a Pouch:

Baby's spine should always be level with the curved seam, and their bottom on the seam. Baby & carrier should be high and snug - only handbags are supposed to swing off you! Baby should NEVER be in the sling lengthwise- it will literally fold her in half and cut off her airways. Instead, she can be in either the nursing cradle -spine in line with seam, head away from capped shoulder- or diagonal cradle carry -bottom on seam and in closer towards you, head at capped shoulder and touching outside edge. For cradle carries it is often practical to pre-fold their legs in the hand you are resting baby on as you put them in the sling. This means they are already comfy and no toes get squashed once they're in. (see pouch instructions)

Positioning in an Open-Tailed Ring Sling:

Generally the same as in a pouch- without the guidance of a curved seam. Baby should have frog legs, be worn snug and high, be supported by the fabric at their back. The sling fabric should also be pulled well up underneath them from knee to knee, to stop them slipping out the bottom. The fabric should always be straight and as spread as possible around baby and you. The rails may be individually tightened to support baby in upright/reclined positions.

Positioning in a Closed Tail, Padded Rail Ring Sling:

This is a little more tricky. The padded rails are difficult to pull through the rings, limiting the variety of carries. With a young baby it is recommended you use a diagonal cradle carry. Make sure baby's head is touching the padded rail, and their bottom is more in towards you- diagonal in the sling. If they are lengthways (as is tempting and commonly done) then they get folded in half. With a hip carry bring as much of the sling fabric up to baby's armpits as possible. The underneath rail should be well tucked in up to their knees to create a pouch for baby. It is extremely important that you wear this type of sling very snug and high. Tighten it as much as you can and get it as high as you can- it should be at your belly button at the least.

Positioning in an Asian-style carrier:

Again, baby needs to have his legs tucked in underneath until around 11-12 weeks. When this young, it is also crucial to tie the straps off at baby's back, not under their bottom as for older children. They need their spines supported so the weight of the baby doesn't compact their lower vertebrae. When baby is older you may tie under the bottom, and this will help support the weight of the baby to stop them sagging down. As above, when their legs are big enough they can go into the frog position in the carrier. Asian style carriers are best worn high and snug. Always start with your carrier tied on apron-style, so as you pull up the panel it creates a 'pocket' for baby.

Positioning in a Soft-Structured carrier:

Although they profess to suit from newborn to preschooler age, SSC's are not *really* suitable for newborns. Unless you wrap baby in a blanket or special insert, and put them in diagonally, it is impossible to get a snug enough fit to support a newborn's body. However, they are ideal for older babies and children, as the width of the panel base encourages an excellent seated position. SSC's differ from other Asian Style carriers, in that you do not put them on 'apron style', instead you wear the waist belt as normal, with the panel facing up. They are also comfortable when worn down low on the hips of short people. With a SSC the wearer's hips take 95% of the child's weight, which is beneficial and makes it easy to wear heavier children for longer.

Positioning in Wraps:

As above, baby's legs should be in a frog position. Baby should be high and snug, well supported by the fabric, and have her face uncovered. If using a stretchy wrap, you may need to re-adjust it a few times to take as much slack out as possible, so baby is snugly held. Be aware that once baby passes around 10kg, a stretchy wrap may not hold their weight up as well, and need re-adjusting more often. As wrapping often involves up to 3 layers of cloth, you will need to keep an eye on baby's temperature- they will probably need one less layer of clothing. Spread each layer of fabric out as much as you can if intended for that 'carry', especially under baby's bottom from knee to knee. This is doubly important if you choose to face baby out- spread their legs as much as possible, knees up. (See below for the issues about facing outwards)

.....So what about Frontpacks?

Let me start by saying that I would much rather see a baby worn in a frontpack, than in a pram/exersaucer/etc. But there is more to frontpacks than meets the eye.............


As stated above, a 'good' baby carrier mimics the way you would naturally hold your baby- either cradled in your arms, straddling you on your hip, or piggy backed.

Frontpacks can do none of this. Although they are loosely based on Asian Style carriers, frontpacks encourage bad positioning for your baby. Frontpacks are difficult to get snug enough to properly support baby's spine, meaning a lot of their weight bears down on an immature spine which can't cope with it. This is exacerbated by the legs dangling down, instead of being in the desirable 'frog' position. Baby ends up dangling from the wearer by their crotch, which is very unnatural and extremely uncomfortable for them. (How many parents do you see grab their baby by the crotch and go for a walk?) Plus, their dangling legs encourage the ball of their femur out of the hip socket with every stride you take. Not good!

Frontpacks hold baby in a position that means their weight pulls down and away from you. This throws off your centre of balance and means you subconsciously compensate by leaning back a little. The straps are often thin, digging into the wearer's shoulders and back. Very few brands use a waist belt, which would take some of the weight from the shoulders.

For all these combined reasons, frontpacks often get uncomfortable after around 4 months old. For the amount of money you pay for a frontpack compared to one of the carriers above, you would be better advised to invest in a decent baby carrier you will get years of use from and will be comfortable for you AND baby.

.....What about facing outwards then?

This is a problematic question. While some babies decide they like to see more at around 3-4 months, please consider these points before turning them forward facing in your carrier, and especially a frontpack.

Overstimulation- baby is forced to look at everything in front of them. They can't get away, can't retreat when the sensory overload gets too much for them to cope with.

Crotch-dangle- is made even worse by facing baby outwards. A lot of weight is resting on baby's crotch/genitals, which is unhealthy especially for baby boys!

Gravity pull- suspending baby from your front means their weight is pulling down and out on you, making your body compensate. This is not desirable at all, and can make you quite sore.

Exposed- baby is more vulnerable to objects, people, and weather conditions when facing out.

Remember, baby is more comfortable, and better positioned, when facing you in a carrier. There is plenty to see if they turn their head. You could try a hip carry if they are old enough, or a back carry if they really want to see.

If you do decide to face baby out, watch them carefully for signs of overstimulation. Turn them back towards you when you notice this happening. Dress baby appropriately. Be aware of who is 'getting in baby's face' and try to protect them.

If you decide to face outwards in a Mei-tai or SSC, remember to tilt their hips like Kelley at Kozy Carriers does, so their legs are angling UP, and they are sitting instead of dangling. If in a wrap, spread the fabric as much as you can between the legs so they are seated. Cloth nappies often provide a nice bit of crotch bulk to spread the weight.

In most good carriers you can face baby forward but with their legs folded up in front of them, called a Kangaroo or Buddha carry. This is more desirable than leaving the legs to dangle, and is perfectly comfortable for your baby. (They've folded them up for over 9 months already!)

Source : http://www.slingbabies.co.nz/Site/Positioning_2.ashx

Tips For the Infant-care

- Babies tend to have gas. A lil hing(asafetida) dissolved in water, applied with cotton around belly button can help bring relief.
- A baby can have dry mucous in the nose or dry skin which can be itchy. A lil cow ghee applied around nostrils, for baby to inhale the aroma, helps keep skin inside the nose soft and lubricated (ghee/oil drops shd never be put in the nose)
- Iron can be absorbed in the body only with help of vitamin C. Which is why it is advised to add few lemon drops to food that is given to babies.
- One small piece of onion can be added to baby food from early times. Onion is medicinal – especially white onion.
- A pinch of turmeric in baby food will help baby fight infections.
- Feeding baby in a silver spoon or in silver vati (bowl), will help baby fight infections and boost immunity since silver properties are transferred into food.
- A few drops of nilgiri oil in baby bath can help keep cold away, and also give aroma effect for baby to sleep soundly after bath.
- If a baby has cold and cough, this remedy can help – an onion can be heated in a covered pan (without water), till it becomes very soft. Then wrap it in a Turkish towel and use it like a heating pad on baby’s chest, temples and nose. Onion fumes are medicinal. Keep feeling the towel against your cheek to make sure it is lukewarm. It can also be left beside a baby’s pillow.
- Coconut oil is a good healing and cooling agent for bug bites. Calamine lotion and aloe vera can also be used.
- Baby nails can be bitten off easily. This is safest. Else a baby nailcutter can be used.
- Cooking lentils etc with ginger will help digestion. Soaking lentils overnight , changing water before cooking, and then once between cooking, will make sure baby does not have gas trouble due to lentils, and at the same time retain its nutrition value.
- Rice and dals can be soaked, then dried (not in sun), and then roasted. This mixture can be ground in a mixie or can simply be cooked to feed the baby. This will make rice and dal lighter and easier to digest.
- Jaggery and dates can be used to sweeten baby food, rather than sugar.
- Ragi is very nutritious, but many babies do not like it. It can be spiced up using a lil cumin powder and salt. It is best when soaked in buttermilk before serving.

- Lil wiggly babies make it difficult for us to towel them after bath. However important areas to dry are folds in the neck, between those chubby fingers and toes, inside and behind ears, and around the thigh folds. Powder should ideally not be applied on damp skin.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Iron For Pregnancy

Its a challege for most pregnant ladies to maintain their iron levels in blood. For the benefit of all those who are trying to improve their iron in blood during pregnancy, the following information will be really useful.

Iron Absorption By Body : The iron absorption by body depends on the form of the iron. The iron from animal sources, known as heme iron, is absorbed easily by the body. The iron found in vegetable sources, known as non-heme iron, is less available to the body. The amount of iron absorbed from vegetarian foods is around 1 - 10% , while it is 10 - 20% from animal foods. Eating of iron rich foods removes iron deficiency.

Good Enhancer Foods for Iron Absorption: Combinations of foods such as beans and tomato or tofu and broccoli result in good iron absorption. In general vegetables such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, capsicums, potato, tomato, etc. and fruits such as cantaloupe, grapefruit, strawberries, orange, etc. enhance the iron absorption.

Here are some facts to remember when consuming iron, for efficient absorption :

1. Do not take iron supplements with ur calcium, as calcium decreases absorption of iron. Since prenatal vitamins come with both calcium and iron in a single pill, do not take iron supplements at the same time, maintain at least 4 hour interval in between.

2. Vitamin C helps your body use iron. It is important to include sources of Vitamin C along with foods containing iron and iron supplements. Foods high in Vitamin C include orange juice, grapefruit juice, green peppers, broccoli, melon, strawberries, and cabbage

3. Caffeine can inhibit the absorption of iron. Try to consume iron supplements and foods high in iron at least one to three hours before or after drinking or eating foods containing caffeine

4. A mother passes almost 500 to 1000 mg of iron to her baby in pregnancy, and most of the transfer occurs in the last months of pregnancy. And so concentrate on iron more at this time.

5. Stomach acids play an important role in iron absorption so its a good idea to limit use of antacids so you can get optimal amount of iron from yours food.

6. Constipation is a common side effect of taking iron supplements. To help relieve constipation, slowly increase the fiber in your diet by including whole grain breads, cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Drinking at least eight cups of fluids daily and increasing moderate exercise (as recommended by your physician) can also help you avoid constipation


Following is a list of foods that provide 8 mg or more of iron per 100 gms of the food.

1. Cereals & Grains: Bajra, Rice flakes
2. Pulses & Beans: Cow pea, Lobia (black-eye beans), Lentils, Soyabean
3. Vegetables: Beetroot greens, Mint, Parsley, Turnip greens
4. Spices: Turmeric (Haldi)
5. Fruits: Dried dates, Watermelon, Raisins
6. Fish and Red meats
7. Iron in Animal Sources : Heme Iron
Beef Liver, Chicken Liver, Clams, Mussels, Oysters, Pork Liver, Sardines, Shrimp and Turkey are good in iron content.

Complere List (Sources : USDA Nutrient Data Base for Standard Reference)
-------------------------------------------------
Iron in Breads, cereals, and grains
-------------------------------------------------
Bran flakes, 1 cup 11.0 mg
Oatmeal, 1 packet 6.3 mg
Pasta, 1 cup, cooked 1.7mg
Samolina, Cream of wheat, 1/2 cup cooked 5.5mg
Wheat germ, 2 tablespoon 1.2mg
Whole wheat bread, 1 slice 0.9mg
White bread, 1 slice 0.7mg
---------------------------------------------------
Iron in Vegetables (1/2 cup cooked)
----------------------------------------------------
Sea vegetables 18.1- 42.0mg
Swiss chard 2mg
Turnip greens 1.6mg
Sweet potatoes, canned 1.7mg
Turnip greens 1.6mg
Pumpkin, cooked 1.7mg
Potato, baked with skin 1.7mg
Turnip greens 1.6mg
Prune juice, 4 oz 1.5mg
Spinach cooked 1.5mg
Beet greens cooked 1.4mg
Potato, 1 large 1.4mg
Bok choy cooked 0.7mg
Peas, cooked 0.65mg
Green beans, cooked 0.60mg
Tomato juice 0.6mg
Broccoli, cooked 0.55mg
Watermelon, 1/8 medium 0.5mg
--------------------------------------------------
Iron in Legumes (1/2 cup cooked)
--------------------------------------------------
Lentils 3.2mg
Black eye beans 2.6mg
Navy beans 2.5mg
Pinto beans 2.2mg
Lima beans 2.2mg
Kidney beans Rajmah 1.5mg
Chick peas (200 g) 6.2mg
----------------------------------------------------
Iron in Soy foods (1/2 cup cooked)
----------------------------------------------------
Tofu 6.6mg
Soybeans 4.4mg
Tempeh 1.8mg
Soy milk 0.9mg
---------------------------------------------------
Iron in Nuts/Seeds (2 Tablespoon)
---------------------------------------------------
Pumpkin seeds 2.5mg
Figs, dried, 5 2.0mg
Dried apricot, 5 1.6mg
Almond, 1/4 cup 1.3mg
Tahini 1.2mg
Sesame 1.2mg
Sunflower seeds 1.2mg
Cashew nuts 1.0mg
------------------------------------------
Iron in Non-Vegetarian Foods
(Heme Iron Sources) (100 g)
------------------------------------------
Clams, steamed 22mg
Clams, cooked 8.5mg
Oysters, cooked 8.5mg
Oysters, raw 5.4mg
Chicken liver, cooked 8.5mg
Beef liver, cooked 6.3mg
Beef, roasted 3.5mg
Ground beef, cooked 2.2mg
Lamb beef, cooked 2.2mg
Turkey, white meat 1.6mg

If you take care to keep the iron levels stable through diet and supplements (if needed), you'll prevent the onset of anemia and feel much healthier at the end of your pregnancy.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Creating a safe sleep environment for your baby

When you start thinking about where your baby is going to sleep at night or decorating your child's bedroom, you might find it useful to keep these safety tips in mind:

• All cots should be deep enough to be safe for your baby, have bars that are less than 45-65 mm apart and not have any cut-outs or steps. If your cot is second-hand or borrowed, make sure cot bars are less than 45-65 mm apart (a can of Coke cannot fit between the slats) to prevent your baby's head from slipping between the bars.

• If your cot is second-hand and painted, strip all paint and re-paint it with lead-free paint. If your child breathes lead dust or fumes or swallows anything with lead in it, he can get lead poisoning, which can cause learning disabilities and other neurological problems.

• Check the cot to be sure that the mattress fits snugly; there should be no corner-post extensions and no decorative cut outs in the headboard or foot board which could trap your baby's limbs.

• Put your baby to sleep on his back to decrease the risk of
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

• Don't use a pillow in the cot. For safe sleeping, your baby needs a surface that is firm and flat.

• When you're not in the room with your baby, keep the drop side of his cot up and locked.

• Position the cot away from windows, heaters, lamps, wall decorations, cords, and furniture which can be used to climb out of the cot.

• Avoid curtains and blinds with cords -- dangling cords carry a risk of strangulation. If you already have them, make sure that you tie up dangling cords.

• Once your child can push up on his hands and knees, you'll have to remove that adorable mobile and any toys that hang across the cot. When he can pull up, take out the bumper pads, too -- they can be used as steps -- and put the mattress in its lowest position so that he can't climb out of the cot.

• When the cot mattress is at its lowest height and the top rail is below your child's chest, it's time to move him to a bed.

• Stay with your baby when he is on the changing table. You may choose to put your changing mat on the floor so that there is no danger of him falling.

• Keep toiletries such as baby lotion and wipes, out of your infant's reach.

• Choose flame-retardant sleepwear and make sure pajama feet aren't too long or socks too slippery if your baby is pulling up or starting to walk.

• Secure wardrobes and bookshelves to walls to prevent them from falling over on your child. For the same reason, always remember to close drawers.

For other general tips on how to keep your baby safe that apply to every room in your home, see making your home safe for your baby.

Source: http://www.babycenter.com.my/baby/sleep/safeenvironment/

Putting baby to sleep on the floor

We live in a part of the world where sleeping on the floor is common. Just a generation ago, it was not unusual for the entire extended family to retire – slumber party style! – on mattresses or roll-out bedding on the floor when it was time to sleep. Today, our modern houses may contain more bedrooms to accommodate everyone separately, but many families still find this arrangement practical, convenient and even desirable.

Can my baby sleep on the floor?
There is no reason your baby cannot sleep on the floor as long as you take all the necessary measures to create a safe sleep environment for her.

Some ethnic communities discourage the practice of sleeping on the floor as they believe the moisture from the “damp” floor will seep into our bodies and cause rheumatism or arthritis later in life. Current research does not support this theory. In any case, this traditional belief that the floor is somehow inherently “damp” may well stem from the fact that the rural housing of old had cement or mud floors that really were cold and damp, and truly uncomfortable to sleep on!

How can I ensure my baby is safe sleeping on the floor?

Look around the room where your baby will sleep. Ask yourself:

• What will my baby sleep on? Whether your baby sleeps on roll-out bedding or a mattress placed on the floor, it should be firm and flat, with fitted sheets.

• Is the room well-ventilated? In our hot, tropical weather, it is particularly important to ensure that your baby sleeps in a well-ventilated room. If there is no ceiling fan in the room, buy a sitting or standing fan (but do ensure it is not directed straight at your baby). Similarly, ensure your baby is not dressed too warmly for the room or wrapped too snugly. Overheating your baby is linked to an increased risk of cot death.

• What’s on the floor? No carpets, no floor mats, no beanbags, no cosy pillow for the family cat to sleep on. They could suffocate your baby. Besides, dust, dust mites and all manner of mould and fungus love these soft, warm surfaces. Obviously, you will also need to ensure that the room is swept and mopped every single day.

• What’s above the floor? Ensure your baby is placed to sleep far away from floor-length drapes and curtains as well as exposed electrical cords and plugs - if baby is too near any of these, there is a chance she could get tangled up.

• What’s around the sleeping area? Your baby should also be far away from any standing fan or lamp, stereo speakers, chairs and stools or anything that could be knocked over in the night, especially if you are co-sleeping.

• How do I keep the room clear of insects and mosquitoes? Most mosquitoes and insects enter your home at dawn and dusk. So make sure all windows and doors are shut by then. If you need to use electric coils, mats or liquid vapourisers to clear the room of pests, make sure they are switched off before baby goes into the room. Anything that emits fumes when heated may cause allergies and breathing problems. Noxious fumes from insect sprays and foams present similar hazards. For a chemical-free solution, you may wish to consider putting wire mesh or screens on all windows and doors. You could also safely leave baby to sleep within a mosquito net until she is old enough to roll or move about in her sleep. These days, electronic devices that rely on ultrasound and electromagnetic waves to repel pests are also available.

Finally, wherever you choose to put baby down for sleep, do put him to sleep on his back. This is the single most important thing you can do to protect your baby.

What else do I need to consider?
Your baby will get used to whatever you get her used to – as long as you are consistent. Wherever your baby sleeps, it is important to establish a bedtime routine and good sleep habits.

Source: http://www.babycenter.com.my/baby/sleep/floor/

Good Food Sources of Iron

Good Food Sources of Iron
Hemochromatosis Awareness Month
by Karen Schroeder, MS, RD

Image for ironMany people, especially women of childbearing age, infants, and the elderly, do not take in enough iron. However, there are many good food sources of iron to choose from. If your doctor advises you to increase your iron intake, consult the chart below to determine how much you need, and read on for some suggestions on meeting those needs.

Here's Why:

Your blood depends on iron to help it carry oxygen through the body. In some cases, anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the diet. Iron also helps your body to fight infection and to make collagen, which is the major protein that makes up connective tissue, cartilage, and bone. Other medical conditions may be worsened if you do not have enough iron.

Recommended Intake:

Age GroupRDA (mg/day)
MaleFemale
0-6 monthsNo RDA;
AI = 0.27
No RDA;
AI = 0.27
7-12 months1111
1-3 years77
4-8 years1010
9-13 years88
14-18 years1115
19-50 years818
51+ years88
Pregnancyn/a27
Lactation, <>n/a10
Lactation, 19-50 yearsn/a9

Here's How:

Iron exists in two forms—heme and nonheme. Heme iron is part of the hemoglobin and myoglobin molecules in animal tissues. About 40% of the iron in meat is in the heme form. Nonheme iron comes from animal tissues other than hemoglobin and myoglobin and from plant tissues. It is found in meats, eggs, milk, vegetables, grains, and other plant foods. The body absorbs heme iron much more efficiently than nonheme iron.

Food Sources of Mostly Heme Iron (Contain Some Nonheme As Well)

FoodServing sizeIron content
(mg)
Oysters, pacific, cooked by moist heat3 ounces7.8
Beef liver, braised3 ounces5.8
Oysters, eastern, canned3 ounces5.7
Lean sirloin, broiled3 ounces2.9
Extra-lean ground beef, broiled3 ounces1.8
Tuna, canned in water, light, drained3 ounces1.3
Skinless chicken, roasted dark meat3 ounces1.1
Pork, lean, roasted3 ounces1.0
Skinless chicken, roasted white meat3 ounces1.0
Salmon, canned with bone3 ounces0.7

Food Sources of Nonheme Iron

FoodServing sizeIron content
(mg)
Fortified breakfast cereal1 cup4.5-18 (check Nutrition Facts label)
Pumpkin seeds1 ounce4.3
Soybean nuts1/2 cup4.0
Blackstrap molasses1 tablespoon3.5
Bran1/2 cup3.5
Spinach, boiled1/2 cup3.2
Red kidney beans, cooked1/2 cup2.6
Lima beans, cooked1/2 cup2.5
Cashews, dry roasted1 ounce1.7
Enriched rice, cooked1/2 cup1.2
Prunes, dried5 prunes1.1
Raisins, seedless1/3 cup1.1
Acorn squash, baked1/2 cup cubes1.0
Whole-wheat bread1 slice0.9
Egg yolk1 large yolk0.7
White bread, made with enriched flour1 slice0.7
Apricots, dried3 apricots0.6
Peanut butter, chunky2 tablespoons0.6
Cod, broiled3 ounces0.4

Tips For Increasing Your Iron Intake

The amount of iron your body absorbs varies depending on several factors. For example, your body will absorb more iron from foods when your iron stores are low and will absorb less when stores are sufficient. In addition, certain dietary factors affect absorption:

  • Heme iron is absorbed more efficiently than nonheme iron.
  • Heme iron enhances the absorption of nonheme iron.
  • Vitamin C enhances the absorption of nonheme iron.
  • Some substances decrease the absorption of nonheme iron. (Consuming heme iron and/or vitamin C with nonheme can help compensate for these decreases.)
    • Oxalic acid, found in spinach and chocolate. However, oxalic acid is broken down with cooking.
    • Phytic acid, found in wheat bran and beans (legumes)
    • Tannins, found in tea
    • Polyphenols, found in coffee
    • Calcium carbonate supplements

To increase your intake and absorption of dietary iron, try the following:

  • Combine heme and nonheme sources of iron.
  • Eat foods rich in vitamin C with nonheme iron sources. Good sources of vitamin C include:
    • Bell peppers
    • Papayas
    • Oranges and orange juice
    • Broccoli
    • Strawberries
    • Grapefruit
    • Cantaloupe
    • Tomatoes and tomato juice
    • Potatoes
    • Cabbage
    • Spinach and collard greens
  • If you drink coffee or tea, do so between meals rather than with a meal.
  • Cook acidic foods in cast iron pots. This can increase iron content up to 30 times.


Source : http://www.ebsconewsletter.com/healthobservance/e_article000847496.cfm?x=b9PNT9P,b6wLsMnc

Elimination Communication: How To’s and Suggestions

Thought I would post this now, before the Unreliable Narrator grows up and I’ve totally forgotten what the early years were like.

Now, we didn’t just come to potty training blind. I started investigating Elimination Communication when I was pregnant. I was obsessing over the “disposable diaper/cloth diaper” false dichotomy (and it is false), when I came across some websites that mentioned EC. I’m an evolving greenie who’s trying to walk the walk over talking the talk, and also someone who, realistically speaking, lives in a hyper-modern, uber-urban city and is as alienated from the land and the natural world as anybody else these days. But, I really wanted to put theory into practice and commit to the reduction of plastic diapers in landfills.

So as weird as EC sounded at first (I have to let my kid wander around my house without a diaper? wha?), I knew it was worth trying.

Step 1: Educate

The best time to read up on EC is when you’re pregnant, before your first child. If that’s not possible, join some online discussion groups or show up at a local Diaper Free Baby meeting and open your ears and mind.

When I started, I read the main books on EC out there (Laurie Boucke) and then I boiled down the information for my husband and my in-laws and parents. Because they were also going to be helping with childcare and I wanted them on board.

I won’t lie: it was hard. My husband (HB) thought I was crazy. But he knew better than to cross a pregnant woman, especially if he wanted to stay married to me and also if he ever hoped to see me naked again. So he was on board, if skeptical.

My in-laws and parents are Chinese immigrants. Their take on the whole matter was, “We left the old country and old country ways precisely so we could enjoy all the modern conveniences and pollute the earth with non-biodegradable disposable diapers like the gwai lo.” Meaning, my mother and mother-in-law might have been potty trained the EC way (Chinese style, meaning, poop on the street from your split pants if you have to), but they considered themselves to have advanced beyond this. So in short, they thought I was crazy too.

It all changed when we brought the Unreliable Narrator home. (Before he could speak we called him the Cutie Nubbin.)

Step 2: Input and Output Are Related

Now ideally, while you’re thinking about what comes out, you’re also thinking about what goes in. We made the choice to breastfeed. That is, I made the executive decision to breastfeed and if HB was moved to lactate and help out, he was welcome to. If he wasn’t forthcoming with this voluntary assistance, then he could be chair of the Dept of Output.

Because we chose breastfeeding, we didn’t have any issues with ear infections or rashes. (Formula apparently tends to exacerbate ear infections and rashes in infants because formula is conducive to baterial growth in the eustachian tubes of sleeping babies, and also some babies are allergic to the composition of certain formulas, as it’s harder to digest than breastmilk.)

But even as the CN moved to solid foods, we decided early on to

  • encourage him to eat plenty of fiber in fruits and vegetables, and lots of whole grains
  • encourage him to eat ethnic foods (we’re Chinese; we also love ethnic foods ourselves)
  • eat lots of veggies ourselves so he would see a good model for this

Because iron is so important to the brain development of babies, we made sure to seek out both animal and non-animal sources of iron. Here’s a handy list. (There’s iron in breastmilk but it decreases after a while, which is why it’s good if first foods are iron rich.) Even today, at almost four years old, the UN mixes in iron-rich dry infant cereal mix into his regular oatmeal.

We consulted Super Baby Food and followed many of the suggestions. Now, I’m a food texture freak and not surprisingly, so’s my son. So there’s no way he’d consent to eating gruel for breakfast past his late toddler years. But what is helpful is the Super Baby Food technique of making up your own batches of pureed lentils, chick peas, cauliflower, what have you, and making ice cubes with them. These store for quite a while in the freezer. So I add these to beef stew or spaghetti sauce, and it’s like turbo-charging those foods nutritionally.

With Super Baby Food I learned the principle of feeding nutritionally dense foods to little ones, in 5 small meals a day. I’ve still continued on this path: it feels like a waste of an opportunity to me if the UN eats a nutritionally-empty snack like potato chips. We almost always offer fruit or vegetables in unlimited quantities, sometimes in combination with nut butters now that we know he’s not allergic, or cheese and crackers, or something of that ilk. A snack is just a little meal, with just as much nutritional attention paid to its composition–a snack isn’t a throwaway. I’ve heated up leftovers from dinner the night before as a snack. If we’re home, why not? Also, offer milk or water with every meal.

Now just because I’m extra tightly wound, I kept all the milk/dairy foods together in one meal or snack, and paired vitamin C rich foods with the high-iron foods. That’s because as a general rule, vitamin C aids absorption of iron and calcium inhibits iron absorption. Beef and broccoli: yes. Beef and cheese: what’s the point? The beef and cheese are kinda canceling each other out.

So I’ve spent a lot of time on the Dept of Input (my bailiwick) because following the law of conservation of matter, what goes in will come out. Quality in, quality out.Constipation is not normal. Explosive poops, while they happen, in my experience were not everyday occurrences. There shouldn’t be crying, straining, bloody, or otherwise traumatic poops happening at your house. If there is, examine what solid food is going into your baby. Juices are sometimes a problem, or cow’s milk. There could be a food allergy or a cold/flu coming on, or other issue that needs investigating.

Step 3: Get Ready to EC

Ok, ideally you’ve thought through the ideas and principles behind what you’ll feed your baby/toddler and how you’ll handle elimination. You’ve given everyone plenty of time to think you’re nuts and warm up to the idea of how nutty you are. (Hopefully you’ve spammed anyone who’ll be in a position to do anything about it with variousNYT and other mainstream media articles on EC to bolster your case.)

For your backup to EC, I’d recommend cloth diapers from a service. You could be changing 12-16 diapers a day on your newborn. The hospital or birthing center will tell you how many wet diapers you should be seeing.

Get your feeding down. I chose breastfeeding; it took a while before we all figured it out.

Cradle your newborn/older baby so that baby’s chest is against your back and you’re holding his/her thighs in your hands. Bring the baby to the sink/toilet/tub/wherever, and make a little prompting noise. Some people say “sss,” “wee,” “psss,” “poo-poo, pee-pee” whatever. Just be consistent.

Now the beauty of starting with a newborn is almost instant, guaranteed success. That little one will be voiding so often during the times s/he’s awake, I know for certain one time you take the diaper off and out will come something into the sink. (We used the sink as it was higher and easier for dad to hold the baby over.)

Good times to see if anything’s ready to come out:

  • first thing upon waking
  • about 10-15 minutes after eating
  • after a nap
  • before bedtime

Older babies will have increased the intervals in between when they void, so it’s more of a crapshoot (ha ha) when you’re able to catch something coming out. (See below; fine tuning.)

And the feeling of triumph when you and your baby do your first catch is a bit like the euphoria of scaling Everest. You know why? Because you and your tiny baby just did something TOGETHER. The result is right there in the sink. How cool is that? And, you’re beginning to envision finitude to YEARS of diapering. The end is in sight, so to speak.

This was HB’s “aha!” moment. When mom-in-law had her first “aha!” moment, somehow I went from being crazy to again being the mere means to an end (the end being the grandchild, that is) and SHE was the one who invented EC. So, people will want to own it in whatever way they can. As annoying as it is, let them.

That’s one less dirty diaper that needs laundering or clogs up a landfill.

Now wipe up and put that clean cloth diaper back on. You can of course use disposables, and we did when we traveled and during the wiggly-can’t/won’t-stop beginning walker months if we left the house. Which we tried to do, for sanity’s sake, often. But the advantage to using cloth is that your child gets instant feedback as to what’s happening in there. Today’s disposables are so absorbent, it’ll feel dry an instant after your child pees. While convenient for the parents/babysitter, this disrupts the normal feedback loop and “diaper trains” your kid. It’s hard to untrain a “diaper-trained” kid, as many parents find to their chagrin when their kid is 4 and 5 and 6 years old.

Me, I’d rather do a focused, intense 24 months or however long, than drag out diapering for a long stretch of many years.

Step 4: Fine Tuning

Everyone has seen the “poo face”: baby squirms, grimaces, reddens and or grunts.

Yep. You know what comes next.

So why not get your baby to the toilet/sink/receptacle, whip off their diaper, and let them void into the receptacle, BEFORE the poo happens?

EC is in large part reading your child so you can get ahead of the curve instead of behind it.

What can help you is knowing the general length of time or interval between pees/poos.

Again, because I am just that tightly wound, I made a chart broken into 24-hour segments. I wanted to keep on top of both how long it took before the CN got hungry again and needed to nurse, and how long it was before he needed to void.

You don’t need to be so tightly wound. I suggest observing and noting IF IT HELPS YOU. If it leaves you a nervous wreck or if you’re not able to do it, then save yourself the worry.

But I do want to say: your watch is your friend. What an incredible advantage you have over a person who can’t tell time. You can, and you can anticipate when your kid will be hungry next (and head off the low-sugar meltdown weepies), or you can anticipate when your little one will probably need to go. In the early stages, timing will be your best friend. That, and watching your kid for the signs he or she will exhibit.

Step 5: Listening

Offer a chance to eliminate at the common times above. Use your verbal signal or cue, and teach your baby ASL for “toilet” (make the letter T –fist with thumb between index and middle finger, shaken side to side). Babies can understand what you tell them long before their mouth and tongue muscles develop the ability to form clear speech. So give them a way to tell you when they need to relieve themselves. You might feel, as i did, like a complete idiot chatting and talking and making ASL signs to a young baby, who is probably just drooling and smiling at you. But they’re taking it all in. And the communication will come back to you paid tenfold.

Which leads me to:

WHEN YOUR KID SIGNALS, RESPOND IMMEDIATELY WITH ASSISTANCE.

You’d think it kinda goes without saying, but there, I said it. Loud.

Recently I observed a mom with her 3-year old toddler. In the middle of eating, he stopped and announced he had to poo. To my surprise, the mother kept doing what she was doing (it wasn’t mission critical, or open heart surgery, or even a conversation being interrupted). I even overheard her confiding that her son has constipation issues. Well, the poor guy needed to go, and no one was taking him. Teach your kid it’s always ok to tend to your body’s needs.

Elsewhere, I’ve noticed older babies making the “poo face” and then been surprised to see no activity by the attending parent, who was maybe 3 feet away. And in some cases, laughing at the “poo face.” I don’t get it. It’s okay for your kid to wear feces for say, longer than the minute it took you to notice?

My point being, if you’ve gone through the trouble of teaching your kid verbal and non-verbal cues to let you know when they need to go, PLEASE meet that need immediately. Encourage communication with supportive action.

Step 6: Listen to No’s

This one is hard. Sometimes you will know as sure as you have synapses and a pulse that your child has to go. All common sense and reason will dictate that they have to go. You’ll offer, and nothing will happen. Or it’ll happen outside the chosen receptacle.

Or five minutes later after you queried/offered. It will be exasperating, but you have to listen to the no’s as much as the yeses.

What you are trying to instill in your child is the ability to listen to his/her body and attend to its needs. Hopefully you’ll have begun cultivating this in your infant, so telling you they need to eliminate is as second nature as breathing (and why Americans wait til the defiant toddler years to start potty training is a mystery). But children will be children and there is no child alive who has skipped testing out the word “no.”

So even if your kid is grievously mistaken about his or her need to go, try with all your might to chalk it up as learning by doing. That is, an error in judgment that your favorite little person in the world made, because they’re still tiny and learning. Learning involves making mistakes. They wouldn’t be human if they didn’t make a mistake, and they wouldn’t be a human child if they didn’t make about a thousand mistakes.

The harder “no” comes from the newly mobile toddler who can’t be bothered to stop to potty or change a diaper (or even have a diaper checked), EVEN THOUGH PRIOR TO THIS THEY WERE OK WITH IT. This happened to me, and I know why: I got busy on my documentary, life was chaotic, the Cutie Nubbin had made huge language leaps and was fast becoming the Unreliable Narrator, he wanted to run and skip and do everything he could on his little legs, he was starting to wean–basically, all hell broke loose developmentally-speaking, and using the potty was last on his list.

The UN’s “no” lasted for a good eight or nine months. Periodically the sun would shine through the clouds and we’d get an easy potty here or there, but we basically went to our backup, cloth diapers. I felt like a failure.

Then I read the comments of other people who also went through a slump. I realized that because kids are so much about the moment, that you too can also get caught up in that moment determining who and what they are for all time. I realized I needed to chillax, and that this phase would pass.

What got us through was not-so-subtle propaganda. We read Everyone Poops, Potty Time With Elmo, we gave stickers/used a star chart with stickers, we bought Thomas the Tank Engine underwear, we talked about slightly older kids he knew who were learning to use the potty.

Most importantly, we made up a little book of kids’ pictures who were using the potty. Whenever HE sat on the potty, I took pictures. Pretty soon we stopped looking at the book of other kids pottying and focused on the book of pictures of him pottying. (You can draw stick figures if you’re not into photographing.) Little by little he got back on track. Our life got less chaotic. He figured he was ready to wean, and he did that and got back to pottying regularly around the same time.

Looking back, I’d say it was “two steps back to make a big jump forward.” And with the perspective I have now, I’d say to parents in a similar bind: “Don’t beat yourself up over it. And go easy on your kid.”

Your mantra for that bumpy time is: no one ever went to college still needing to use a diaper.

Because giving up nursing and going on the potty for good? Those are two huge steps into Big Boyhood, and we grownups forget that it takes a lot of bravery to set aside “baby” things and move on to other things.

Step 7: Forearmed and Forewarned

Get out and about with your kid.

Learn every public restroom’s location in the places you frequent. If you’re asking for communication, sooner or later you’ll receive it, so you’ll need to know how to follow through. It’s your job as parent to help your kid. Elimination is a basic human need. A little advance prep saves on laundry and accidents.

Travel with a potty if you need to. I keep a portable potty in my trunk. There is no shame in pottying on the floor of the back seat of the car. If ya gotta go, ya gotta go. Little bladders are not able to hold out like camels. So have some empathy and make accommodations.

If you’re out and about in that delicate stage of flying solo without diaper-backup, offer the potty frequently.

Be prepared for some accidents. this would happen anyway even if you were completely reliant on diapers of any kind. So just take it in stride.

I’m not a fan of boys who treat the entire planet/any available bush/the sidewalk as a urinal, so I never encouraged that. But in an emergency, I think a parent has to do what a parent has to do. Plus, if you’re sufficiently crunchy that your boy peeing on the tree in your yard doesn’t bother you, then go for it.

Step 8: If You Tell Me You Need to Pee/Poo, You Can Tell Me Anything

The beauty of Elimination Communication is not having a child who’s potty trained at the age of 14 months (it happens that early for some kids; for other kids, they’ve found a groove at 28 months, like my son, for example). The beauty of Elimination Communication goes back to that first time you removed your baby’s diaper because a sixth sense told you they needed to go, and voila! they did. And the two of you grinned at each other in the mirror over the bathroom sink.

You did something together. And it met your child’s need and they knew you were listening. Listening hard. (Ok, you were highly motivated to listen, but the key thing is that you were listening.)

Elimination Communication puts emphasis on the signalling–otherwise it’d be just the parents intuiting when the baby needs to go. But what I think is more valuable is the quality of being mindful and attentive to your child. Hopefully, by modeling that for them, they will know what it is to live mindfully, and be attentive to what you have to say.




Source:http://cynematic.wordpress.com/2007/10/16/elimination-communication-how-tos-and-suggestions/

Elimination Communication : Infants & Babies

Elimination Communication

Christine Gross-Loh
Japan
From NEW BEGINNINGS, Vol. 23 No. 6, November-December 2006, pp. 266-267

In recent years, most children in Western societies have begun the process of learning to use the toilet when they're toddlers. In many other areas of the world, elimination is dealt with differently. Some children are toilet-independent by the age of one. Rather than containing waste exclusively in diapers, parents watch the babies and help them to use a potty or toilet when they need to go. Thus, when the time comes for children to become completely toilet-independent, using a toilet is already such an accepted part of their lives that the transition is smooth.

This practice, known as "elimination communication," or EC, is becoming more widespread in Western societies as well. This article aims to share some basic information about elimination communication.

EC can be practiced with babies as well as with older children. Because EC is first and foremost about communication (not toilet training, which can sometimes imply a coercive or parent-led practice), it provides parents with another way to understand their children. Whether you have a newborn or a three-year-old, EC encourages parents to be sensitive and responsive to what children are trying to tell them.

At each stage during your child's early years, you will find there are ways to approach elimination and toileting that are compatible with general principles of gentle, responsive parenting.

Young Infants

For parents who fear that embarking on elimination communication with a newborn will be time-consuming, know that toileting can be done part-time -- even just once every few days or so. Some parents find it helpful to give it a try at times when the diaper would be off anyway, such as during a diaper change or before the bath.

The most important components of toilet learning at any stage, including the newborn period, are observation of your baby and getting in communication with your baby via the use of cues and signals.

Observing and becoming aware of timing and rhythms: You can begin simply by leaving your baby diaper-free, lying on an open cloth or disposable diaper in your arms, in a sling, or on some padding on the floor. Not fastening a diaper on your baby will make it easy for you to tell when he is eliminating. Take note of when he tends to go, keeping in mind that babies' patterns change often and quickly at this stage. Most young babies tend to release their bowels and bladder immediately after awakening from sleep, and during or right after nursing sessions. Newborns tend to go more frequently than older infants, which gives you more opportunity for observation.

Figuring Out Cues and Signals: With observation, you will probably start to notice that your baby makes certain faces, noises, or movements immediately prior to urinating or defecating. Your baby might start to fuss, squirm, and grimace when she feels a movement coming on. The more you observe her, the more you will be able to sense when she is about to go and be able to cue her right before or as she is having a bowel movement or urinating.

What is a "cue"? It's a sound you make that communicates to your baby that she is urinating. Your baby will start to associate it with the very sensation of elimination. The most common cue used worldwide is a shushing or soft hissing sound such as "pssss" or "shhh," made while holding your baby over a potty, bowl, or toilet. Be sure to continue to make the cue sound while she is urinating. Soon enough, your baby's imminent need to go, when combined with the cue sound and the pottying position, will signal to your baby that you're assisting her with her elimination need.

The most important thing to remember is to do this at a pace that feels right for you and your family. Some people keep their babies in diapers all the time and use EC only occasionally, others might just catch bowel movements and diaper their babies the rest of the time, while yet other families might try out a completely diaper-free lifestyle. There is no one right way to use elimination communication.

Older Infants

Once your baby is past three or four months old, toileting can become remarkably easy. In fact, some cultures begin toileting at this stage rather than at the newborn stage. Your baby's ability to hold her head up and even sit up means that she may be able to sit on a potty with your support. Her elimination patterns may be more predictable at this age as well. Again, the principles are the same as for newborns: observe your child, learn to read her signals just as you learn to tell when she is tired, overstimulated, or hungry, and then assist her with her biological need.

New signs and cues: Keep an eye out for new ways your baby may signal the need to urinate or defecate. Some of these signs at this age will include: grunting, grimacing, blowing raspberries, passing gas, an intent look, or sudden fussing or crying. To enhance communication further, this is an ideal time to introduce the American Sign Language sign for toilet. She may not repeat it back to you yet, but the foundations for mutual understanding will have been laid.

Babywearing helps: Many people who use EC with their infants also wear their babies on their bodies in a soft carrier. This is no coincidence. Babywearing can be a great aid in getting in rhythm with your baby. Babies tend not to release their bladders or bowels when being held close (although each child is unique and there are always exceptions to this). If they are comfortable and don't need to eliminate, they will remain in a state of quiet alertness. If they need to eliminate, they might squirm or otherwise let you know they want to be taken out of the sling.

Keeping baby close in this way provides a good chance for you to understand your baby's signals and rhythms. It also gives you an idea of when are good times to offer the potty to your baby.

Older Infancy, Toddlerhood, and Preschool Age

Many parents are advised by conventional toilet training experts to wait until their child is at least 18 months to two years old before even considering introducing the potty, and to do so only if their child meets certain checkpoints (for instance, can independently dress himself, can verbalize the need to go to the bathroom, or actually asks to use the toilet). This is said to initiate a "child-led" toilet training process.

However, a parent might observe that her child is interested in toileting at a much earlier stage when she won't necessarily meet all those checkpoints. EC encourages parents to be open to any window of opportunity you may see. A child-led toilet learning process essentially means being open to the fact that your child may want to begin using the toilet far earlier than most societal messages tell us.

If your child is starting out at an older age, EC principles still apply. Know that it may take some time for him to be aware of when he is urinating or defecating, but continue to communicate with him about this. Let him take the initiative as much as possible.

Bodily awareness: If your child has not used a toilet before, your initial approach will be very similar to that of parents of young babies. One good way to help him be aware of when he is urinating or defecating is to let him wear (preferably cloth) training pants or to have him eliminate without anything on at all.

Diaper-free time: Diaper-free time can be as long or as short as need be to meet your own family's needs. If you spend time apart from your child, if you have lots of carpet in the home, or if you are on the go a lot, you can make adjustments to accommodate your lifestyle. Many families find that it works well for them to have a brief period of diaper-free time every day. Being "diaper-free" can mean anything from having on a cloth training pant, a coverless cloth diaper, pint-sized underwear, or having nothing on at all. Above all, diaper-free time means being free of an exclusive reliance on diapers.

During diaper-free time, you can observe your child and cue him if you notice him eliminating. Having the diaper off will also allow him to notice the physical sensation of urinating or defecating and make the association between the sensation and the act. In the meantime, you can offer him the context he needs to put this all together by observing and verbalizing what is happening for him. A simple statement such as "You're peeing!" is sufficient.

Talk with your child about elimination: Toddlers can really express and act out their interest in pottying in a variety of ways. Play is a language children respond to, so join your child in the fun by putting his stuffed animals on the potty and cueing them, and so forth. Toddlers love routines. He may love being involved in all aspects of toileting -- wiping, flushing, and washing hands.

Summary

Elimination communication may appear at first glance to be merely about elimination. Once you embark upon this journey, however, you will realize it is a dance of communication between parent and child.

It's important to remember that EC is not about a result (toilet independence), but about the ongoing process of communication. It's not about having the first toilet-trained child in the neighborhood. It is about taking things moment by moment and learning to listen to your child and figure out what she is saying -- all valuable skills for the mother or father who wants to parent with empathy and respect.

Every family is wondrously unique. The range of experiences among families who use elimination communication reflects this variety.


Source :

http://www.llli.org/NB/NBNovDec06p266.html

Infant/Baby Massage

Baby Massage

Baby massage can be a good thing for both parent and child because:

It's a good bonding experience - a good way for you and your baby to get to know each other and to spend a bit of quality time together.

Studies have suggested that physical contact is good for babies, improving their breathing, circulation, digestion and growth.

It provides a good source of sensory and muscle stimulation, which is beneficial to all babies, but may be particularly good for babies with special needs, such as developmental disabilities and Down's syndrome.

Baby massage is even claimed to combat postnatal depression in mothers, according to a BBC News Report on baby massage and post-natal depression.

It relaxes both parent and child.

It's fun for both of you.

Some health professionals feel that you should not carry out massage on newborn babies, or should wait until they have had their first full course of immunisations (at around 3-4 months). Conversely, others feel you should start as soon as possible, as massage can help to provide a smooth transition from the womb to the outside world and that massage is particularly beneficial to premature babies. Massage is also a popular option for coping with colic, a problem normally only encountered in babies under 3-4 months. If you have any concerns about massaging your baby - and especially if your baby is sick - you should consult an appropriate health professional first. In any case: never massage a baby if the baby seems uncomfortable.

Setting Up

You will need:


Some massage oil - Make sure that the oil is suitable to use on a baby. Most massage oils - including those sold as 'baby massage oil' - tend to include a fragrance. Chances are that your baby will end up ingesting some oil, for instance by putting their massaged hands in their mouth, so you really want to make sure it is safe. A simple oil like pure almond or olive oil is best, but if in doubt, ask for advice before buying.

A warm room - Your baby is going to be stripped right down to the skin and therefore needs to be in a warm environment. Also remember that babies are not good at regulating their body temperature and cool down much quicker than adults do. Before you begin, consider getting an extra heater going in the room and close all doors and windows. Watch out for draughts, especially if the baby will be on the floor. Make sure that you are dressed appropriately for the temperature of the room and that your clothing is as comfortable as possible.

A comfortable surface - You need something soft, warm and well-cushioned for the baby to lie on. At the same time the surface needs to be able to cope with accidents - remember, your baby is going to be without a nappy! Something like a thick towel on top of one of those plastic-covered changing mats would be ideal. Have a spare nappy to hand in case of accidents. You also need a safe place to put what is likely to become a rather messy bottle of massage oil. Keep it away from carpets and soft furnishings1.

A chunk of time - Try to pick a time when you will not be disturbed and when you both can relax. For your baby, it should not be too soon after a feed (who wants to be poked with a full tummy?), or so close to a meal that the baby will be hungry and distracted. Equally, don't pick a time when your baby is really tired and just wants a bit of peace, although don't be surprised if they nod off during the massage. After your baby's bathtime might be a good idea, provided they are not too sleepy. Also make sure that you pick a time when you can put aside thoughts and worries about chores or work. Remember that your baby relies on non-verbal communication and will pick up on your mood if you are tense. Relax, so that you are only transmitting good vibes to your child. Try to set aside around half-an-hour at a time for a baby massage.

A good atmosphere - Don't try and watch telly and massage your baby at the same time. This is not an opportunity to catch up on the news, or on your favourite soap opera or quiz show. If you want something on in the background, then play some gentle instrumental music or put on an 'ambient music' video. Dimming the lights, or lighting a candle might also help.

Before You Begin

Make sure you really are comfortable and relaxed and that you have everything to hand. Do a bit of deep slow breathing to make sure you're not tense.

Undress your baby and pop a clean nappy under the baby's bottom (if you decide you don't want to take any risks with accidents!).

Warm up: shake your hands vigorously to loosen them up. If it's your kind of thing you may want to envision energy flowing from your body and down into your hands.

Pour a generous amount of oil on your hands and rub them together, before touching your baby, to warm the oil. This also gives your baby a visual and aural cue that there is a massage on the way.

Some General Rules

Baby massage can be quite different from adult massage, both in terms of strokes and techniques. Baby massage should never be probing, but should also not be so light as to tickle the baby. Of course you need to be most gentle on tiny babies: a standard recommendation is to place your finger on your closed eyelid and press lightly, stopping before it feels uncomfortable. Use this as a gauge for how much strength to use on a new baby. For older babies, be quite firm as babies prefer confident handling. Think about what you would enjoy and then watch your baby for reactions.

On the trunk, always massage from your left to right (that's from your baby's right to left). This follows the direction of flow in the digestive system, so that you are working with the baby's organs - not against them. Use your 'main' hand - that is your writing hand - for the major part of the strokes.

Standard Strokes

These are the strokes mentioned in the massage routine suggestions. They can be used on many different parts of the body.

Open Book (Used on Chest, Back and Forehead)

Place your hands together palm to palm, in a 'praying' gesture, with your fingertips pointing towards the baby's head, your thumbs uppermost. Now imagine that your hands are a closed book, and your thumbs are the spine. Place your little fingers - they are the edges of the pages - against the baby's skin and 'open' the book by spreading your hands, until your thumbs - still touching each other - reach the baby's flesh. Separate your hands and continue to move them outward across your baby in one smooth motion.

Milking (Used on Arms and Legs)

Starting at the top of the limb and squeezing gently, move your hand down to the wrist or ankle. Imagine that you are milking a cow, or squeezing the filling out of a sausage. As one hand reaches the wrist or ankle, start at the top with the other hand so that there is a continuous stroking effect.

Rolling (Used on Arms and Legs)

This is a classic massage stroke - you have probably seen it, even if you've never done it. Place your non-writing hand under the limb and your main hand above. Roll the limb between the hands - you'll probably find you do this by moving your main hand rapidly and your other hand hardly moves at all. Then move gradually down the limb.

A Sample Massage

You may wish to practice first on a doll or teddy bear, so that you can relax and handle your baby confidently.

Different babies enjoy different things, so feel free to adapt the order of these sections, or miss out the parts of a routine your baby doesn't enjoy.

To start with, try doing each major stroke five times - strokes on the hands and feet tend to be repeated five times anyway - one for each digit.

Place the baby on their back, feet towards you.

Chest and Stomach

Open book on the baby's chest, spreading out around the baby's ribcage and under the arms.

Open book again on the baby's chest, but this time going up to the collar bone, shoulders and tops of arms.

Stroking neck - place your hand diagonally on the centre of your baby's chest, so that your fingertips point to one shoulder. Push your hand up and over the shoulder so that your fingers go under the chin and into the crease against your baby's neck. Do the same with the other hand on the opposite shoulder.

Arched window - place two fingers of your main hand at the very top of your baby's right thigh, and run them up, under the curve of the ribcage, and down to the same point on the left side. You should have drawn the shape of an arched window, or an upside down 'U'.

Scooping in the sand - now place the side of your curved hand in the arch under the ribcage, and bring it down towards the groin, as if you were scooping a hole in sand. Do this five times with each hand and then again with your main hand, holding the baby's legs up with the other.

Sunrise and sunset - hold your hand so that the palm is above, but not touching, the baby's groin and the upper half of all the fingers is resting on the point at the very top of the baby's right thigh so that your hand is diagonal to the baby's body. Turn your wrist and sweep your hand around until your fingertips touch the same point on the left thigh, keeping your palm in roughly the same place, just twisting on the spot. Your fingertips should then have drawn a low, round arch. As one hand reaches the end of this arch, start the other off on the same path, so that one hand follows the other, over and over.

Walking your fingers - starting at the baby's right side, walk your fingers in a horizontal line just above the belly button, then slide back.

Thumb bird - place your thumbs together and stretch your palms out, as if you were miming a bird. Place your thumbs on the centre of the baby's stomach and wrap your hands around the waist. The tips of your thumbs should come up just above the belly button. Then separate your thumbs, stroking across the stomach and round the baby's sides.

Arms and Hands

Milk the arm, making sure you get into all the creases, especially behind the elbow.

Roll the arm.

Stroke the back of the hand, starting at the wrist and going down over the top of each finger in turn.

Do the same on the palm of the hand. As you reach the tip of each finger, give it a little roll between your fingers.

Draw small circles around the knobbly wrist bone.

Armpit - raise your baby's arm above their head and flat onto the towel. If your baby stiffens their arm, try jiggling it gently from the elbow until they relax. With your other hand stroke down the inside of the upper arm and into the cavity of the armpit, and off. Make sure this one touch is firm so that it does not tickle.

Movements: holding it by the wrist, take one arm down to the baby's side, then up and across to the opposite collarbone, in the style of a Roman salute. Make sure you return the arm to the baby's side afterwards and do this five times with each hand. Now take a wrist in one hand and the opposite foot in the other. Bring the two together, meeting somewhere over the baby's belly button, making sure that you return both limbs to the ground between movements and repeat five times with each side.

Legs and Feet

Start with the left leg - milk the leg, making sure you get into all the creases, especially behind the knee, then roll the leg.

Squeeze and twist the leg, in the style of a 'Chinese burn2' - but gently and with plenty of oil! Work your way down the leg.

Stroke the top of the foot, going down over the top of each toe in turn.

Do the same on the base of the foot, starting at the heel. As you reach each toe, give it a little roll between your fingers - this can be quite difficult if your fingers are slippery! If your baby has their toes curled over, try putting your thumb at the base of the toes and pushing gently and repeatedly, until they relax.

Use your thumb to press in all over the base of the foot.

Draw small circles around the ankle bone on the outside of the leg.

Then switch to the right leg and do the same.

Place the palm of each hand at the top of a thigh, with the side of your index finger in the crease between thigh and stomach. Stroke inwards down the side of the groin. Note that this is as close as you should ever get to the genital area in baby massage.

Place one hand under each buttock and massage it, then bring your hand out along the underneath of the leg and down to the feet, pulling ever so gently. Give a little shake and then let go when you get to the feet. Try saying 'round and round and round we go - and all the way out and down to your toes!'

Movements: lift one ankle and bend the knee so that the back of the heel of that foot touches the inside of the knee of the other leg - as if your baby was hopping. Repeat five times with each foot and then alternate left and right feet. Finally, cross legs to knees left over right and right over left, and repeat five times.

The Back

Turn your baby until they lie on their front. Some babies love this, while some hate it - it may depend on their age and upper body strength. If your baby won't lie happily on their front, try holding them to your chest with their head lying on, or over, your shoulder or, if they are old enough, sitting up, perhaps in the crook of your leg to hold them steady.

Use the open book technique, down below their arms onto their ribs, and up over their shoulders.

Lay both palms perpendicular to the baby's spine and move your hands back and forth, working your way gradually down to the small of the back.

Use the tips of two fingers to draw small circles all over the back, working roughly from top to bottom. Try to draw the circles by shifting the skin, rather than moving your fingers over the skin.

Use the tip of all the fingers on one hand to come down the spine, and in a curve from the outer edge of the shoulders and down the spine. If your baby is lying down you can continue these strokes over the bottom and down the legs.

Face and Head

This is perhaps the section that most babies like least. If your baby doesn't want it, simply miss it out. If you baby likes it, try inserting it earlier on into the massage, when the baby is still lying on its back.

Most of the following strokes use the tips of the first two fingers of each hand, working symmetrically on both sides of the face at the same time.

Use the open book technique on the forehead, but just using the upper half of your fingers.

Use your thumbs to stretch the forehead gently, pulling outwards from the centre.

Draw the tips of your forefingers down the jawbone from the front of the ear until your fingers meet on the chin.

Draw small circles on the skin above the hinge of the jaw in front of the ears.

Stroke from the bridge of the nose, down the sides of the nose and across the cheekbones.

Stroke from the bridge of the nose along the eyebrows.

Run the pads of your thumbs gently down from the centre of the eyebrow and over the eyelid, closing the eyes in the process. Some parents even swear by this as a way of encouraging sleep!

Stroke the top lip, finishing in an upward stroke, making the shape of a smile.

Do the same with the lower lip.

Run a fingertip around the inside of the curve of the ear, top to bottom, and then without breaking contact, round the outside of the back of the ear, again top to bottom.

Run the flat of all your fingers from the temples, up and round the side of the head, down behind the ears and along the jawbone, so that your hands meet at the tip of the chin.

Finding Out More About Baby Massage

Only so much of massage that can be learnt from a written description. If you would like to learn more, you may wish to attend a baby massage course. You could ask your midwife, health visitor, medical centre or maternity hospital for details of local teachers or courses - some of which may be free. If you are in the UK, you could check with your local branch of the The National Childbirth Trust or you could contact your national chapter of The International Association of Infant Massage. If you cannot find a course that suits, then there are a number of baby massage videos available.

When is My Child too Old for Baby Massage?

Some babies go off massage when they start to crawl and just get too wriggly - don't worry if this is the case - you're not doing anything wrong. You may find that your child is willing to start again when he or she is a little older, and by then you may find that they are old enough to respond and tell you which strokes they like best. This Researcher's massage teacher said that the best time to quit is when they are old enough to give a massage to you.

1 However, this Researcher has discovered, by happy chance, that spilled sweet almond oil removes watermarks from coffee tables, brings up teak a treat and puts a lovely shine on wooden doorknobs.
2 'Chinese burn' is one name given to the painful playground trick of gripping someone's bare arm tightly with both hands touching each other, then rotating the hands in opposite directions

Source : http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A880670