1. Oats...
Just boil in water and finally add a little salt and butter and feed. (Not started giving milk to him. Others can add milk. Also sugar can be added instead of salt. My son doesnt like sugar) ---- Can be given from the age of 10 months
2. Banana boiled and mashed....
Cook banana in the idly vessel (like water in the vessel and in the top plate keep the banana and cover with the lid), with little scrapped jaggery for 5-10 mins. Then just mash and give this. This will help to add weight also. You can also crush and mix paapad if your baby likes that. ---- Can be given from the age of 8 or 9 months. But in my place some people used to give even from 5th month
3. Rice flour / Ragi flour / Wheat flour mix.....
Mix either one of the above said flour with water and boil for 5 mins (or until u feel it is cooked fully). Add salt or sugar as per your baby's taste along with butter / ghee / milk ------ Can be given from any time after 3 months. I started from 4th month. But mother's who have less breast milk level can start giving early.
4. Egg
In a pan, put little oil and add little onion and little frozen peas (it will get cooked in 1 min) and then add a egg, and little salt and pepper. Make a scramble.....done....tasty and healthy ------ Safe after 1 year
5. 1 cup whole wheet flour
2 tbs desi ghee
dryfruits mix(nuts)
dry roast dryfruits a little then grind them and do not roast kishmish(optional) if u want to mix.keep it aside.Then roast flour in dry kadhai on slow or medium flame for some time till it slightly changes colour and u get a nice aroma.Then add ghee to it(if home made well n gud).And keep frying.Add the dryfruit mix to it and fry till it starts giving nice smell and changes colour.Butit shd not burn.then take it off the fire and let cool down.then pack in containers.Whenever have to give add sugar little lukewarm milk and sattu and it's ready.
But if u r in india then u can add raggi, bajra,jau,roasted chana,roasted rice(no rice puffs or flakes)all roasted with a little mungphalli roasted and ground.And most importantly dryfruits whichu add should be in small quantity or else it causes loose motion.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Lunch Box Recipes By Shraddha
EYEBALLS ON CRACKERS
INGREDIENTS
Eggs; hard boiled
Black olives
Salty crackers like Monaco
Red food coloring
METHOD
1. Cut hard boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and make filling for deviled eggs.
2. Cut out small hole from bottom center of each egg (about 5/8" diameter.) Poke a black olive partway through each hole and hold in place by filling eggs with yolk filling.
3. Place each egg, olive side up, on a cracker.
4. Paint red lines, resembling blood veins, with a toothpick on the eye.
Eggs; hard boiled
Black olives
Salty crackers like Monaco
Red food coloring
METHOD
1. Cut hard boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and make filling for deviled eggs.
2. Cut out small hole from bottom center of each egg (about 5/8" diameter.) Poke a black olive partway through each hole and hold in place by filling eggs with yolk filling.
3. Place each egg, olive side up, on a cracker.
4. Paint red lines, resembling blood veins, with a toothpick on the eye.
Apple Smiles
INGREDIENTS
1 Red medium apple; cored & sliced about 1/3" wide, not skinned!
Peanut butter (creamy works best)
Tiny marshmallows.
METHOD
1. Spread one side of each apple slice with peanut butter.
2. Place three or four tiny marshmallows on top of the peanut butter on one apple slice.
3. Top with another apple slice, peanut butter side down.
4. Squeeze gently. ..makes 8-10
1 Red medium apple; cored & sliced about 1/3" wide, not skinned!
Peanut butter (creamy works best)
Tiny marshmallows.
METHOD
1. Spread one side of each apple slice with peanut butter.
2. Place three or four tiny marshmallows on top of the peanut butter on one apple slice.
3. Top with another apple slice, peanut butter side down.
4. Squeeze gently. ..makes 8-10
Clown Faces
INGREDIENTS
Large Pancake / Dosa
3 Orange Slices
2 Poached or fried Eggs
1/2 Cherry Tomato
METHOD
1. Make the pancakes / Dosa in advance and set them in oven to keep them warm.
2. Poach or fry the eggs.
3. To assemble the faces, place the pancakes / Dosa on a plate, with eggs for eyes, orange slices for ears and mouth, and a tomato half for the nose.
NOTE:
For a lighter meal, omit the eggs and use apricot or peach halves for eyes and half a fresh cherry for a nose.
Or, omit pancakes, assemble eggs directly on plate, and add a smile made from
chopped, sauted potatoes.
Large Pancake / Dosa
3 Orange Slices
2 Poached or fried Eggs
1/2 Cherry Tomato
METHOD
1. Make the pancakes / Dosa in advance and set them in oven to keep them warm.
2. Poach or fry the eggs.
3. To assemble the faces, place the pancakes / Dosa on a plate, with eggs for eyes, orange slices for ears and mouth, and a tomato half for the nose.
NOTE:
For a lighter meal, omit the eggs and use apricot or peach halves for eyes and half a fresh cherry for a nose.
Or, omit pancakes, assemble eggs directly on plate, and add a smile made from
chopped, sauted potatoes.
CHEESE PAPAD FINGERS
INGREDIENTS
Papad 8 nos.
Grated cheese 1 cup
Oil for frying
METHOD
1.Hold the papads one by one over boiling water for a few seconds to make them
soft.
2.Then cut each papad into three strips.
3.Spread some cheese on each strip, roll and fix with a toothpick.
4.Deepfry these cheese papad fingers and then drain on paper.
5.Serve with mint chutney.
Papad 8 nos.
Grated cheese 1 cup
Oil for frying
METHOD
1.Hold the papads one by one over boiling water for a few seconds to make them
soft.
2.Then cut each papad into three strips.
3.Spread some cheese on each strip, roll and fix with a toothpick.
4.Deepfry these cheese papad fingers and then drain on paper.
5.Serve with mint chutney.
Idli Upma
INGREDIENTS
Idlis
Onions
Red chillies
Urad dhal,
Mustard seeds,
Curry leaves,
Green chillies,
Salt
Oil
METHOD
1. Saute mustard seeds, urad dhal, red chillies, green chillies and curry leaves in oil.
2. Meanwhile, break the idlis into coarse powder.
3. Mix it to the above mixture, add salt.
Idlis
Onions
Red chillies
Urad dhal,
Mustard seeds,
Curry leaves,
Green chillies,
Salt
Oil
METHOD
1. Saute mustard seeds, urad dhal, red chillies, green chillies and curry leaves in oil.
2. Meanwhile, break the idlis into coarse powder.
3. Mix it to the above mixture, add salt.
MULTI GRAIN ROTI
INGREDIENTS
1 cup wheat Flour
1 cup Rice flour
1 cup maize flour
1 cup Ragi flour
1 cup Jowar flour
1 cup gram flour
1 cup bajra flour
Salt,
Chilli powder,
Garam masala powder
METHOD
1. Mix all the flour add salt, chilli powder, garam masala powder, turmeric and knead it. 2. Now make chappatis with this, smear it with little ghee
Eat this healthy chappati with dal or any sabji. You can apply Jam or Cheese Spread and make a roll to give in Tiffin.
1 cup wheat Flour
1 cup Rice flour
1 cup maize flour
1 cup Ragi flour
1 cup Jowar flour
1 cup gram flour
1 cup bajra flour
Salt,
Chilli powder,
Garam masala powder
METHOD
1. Mix all the flour add salt, chilli powder, garam masala powder, turmeric and knead it. 2. Now make chappatis with this, smear it with little ghee
Eat this healthy chappati with dal or any sabji. You can apply Jam or Cheese Spread and make a roll to give in Tiffin.
Oats Chapathi
INGREDIENTS
Wheat flour - 1 cup
Oats powder - 4 tbsp (grind quaker oats into a fine powder)
salt to taste
Water to knead
Sesame oil - 1 tsp
METHOD
1. Mix wheat and oats flour.
2. Add salt and knead the flour into a nice dough.
3. Spread the sesame oil and leave the dough for atleast half an hour.
4. Take required amount of dough to make one roti and spread it into a circle shaped roti of 7" diameter.
5. Cook it on both sides.
Wheat flour - 1 cup
Oats powder - 4 tbsp (grind quaker oats into a fine powder)
salt to taste
Water to knead
Sesame oil - 1 tsp
METHOD
1. Mix wheat and oats flour.
2. Add salt and knead the flour into a nice dough.
3. Spread the sesame oil and leave the dough for atleast half an hour.
4. Take required amount of dough to make one roti and spread it into a circle shaped roti of 7" diameter.
5. Cook it on both sides.
Oats Dosa
INGREDIENTS
Oats - 1 cup
Buttermilk - 2 cups
Besan Flour - 1/4 cup
Sooji -1/4 cup
Salt to taste
Green chillies - 2 (acc to taste)
Onion - 1 finely chopped
Curry leaves and coriander leaves - few
Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
Cashews - few
Asafoetida powder - a pinch
Oil - 2 tsp
METHOD
1. First grind the oats into very fine powder. Keep it aside.
2. Now take the buttermilk add oats powder, besan flour, sooji and salt and mix it well. Keep it aside for half an hour.
3. In the mean time, preheat a drop of oil, splutter mustard seeds, when its done add cashews, onion, asafoetida powder and green chillies and fry it till it becomes golden brown.
4. Now add curry leaves and coriander leaves to it and saute' for a moment and pour it on top of the batter.
5. Mix it well.
6. Pre heat a dosa skillet, pour a laddle full of batter and spread it into a circle, pour a teaspoon of oil and let it cook under low flame (because it becomes very dark).
7. When it is done flip it over and pour the remaining oil and cook it.
8. Serve it with some chutney or sambar.
Oats - 1 cup
Buttermilk - 2 cups
Besan Flour - 1/4 cup
Sooji -1/4 cup
Salt to taste
Green chillies - 2 (acc to taste)
Onion - 1 finely chopped
Curry leaves and coriander leaves - few
Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
Cashews - few
Asafoetida powder - a pinch
Oil - 2 tsp
METHOD
1. First grind the oats into very fine powder. Keep it aside.
2. Now take the buttermilk add oats powder, besan flour, sooji and salt and mix it well. Keep it aside for half an hour.
3. In the mean time, preheat a drop of oil, splutter mustard seeds, when its done add cashews, onion, asafoetida powder and green chillies and fry it till it becomes golden brown.
4. Now add curry leaves and coriander leaves to it and saute' for a moment and pour it on top of the batter.
5. Mix it well.
6. Pre heat a dosa skillet, pour a laddle full of batter and spread it into a circle, pour a teaspoon of oil and let it cook under low flame (because it becomes very dark).
7. When it is done flip it over and pour the remaining oil and cook it.
8. Serve it with some chutney or sambar.
CARROT RICE MOULD
Do children love fancy shapes? Try out moulds ranging from simple jelly moulds to fancy ones like hearts and guitars. And watch this rice preparation leap to life !
INGREDIENTS
1 teacup rice
1/4 teacup moong dal
2 cloves
2 sticks cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 onion, chopped
1/2 tablespoon chilli powder
2 large carrots, chopped
1 tablespoon oil
salt to taste
METHOD
1. Wash the rice and dal and keep aside.
2. Heat the oil and add the cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf and fry for 1/2 minute.
3. Add the onion, chilli powder and fry again for 1 minute.
4. Add the carrots, rice, dal, 2 1/2 teacups of water and salt.
5. Cook in a pressure cooker.
6. Press into greased moulds of the desired shape and unmould on a serving plate. Serve with youhurt.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
To combination of grains and pulses delivers essential amino acids required for growth as well as carbohydrates for energy.
The carrots deliver Vitamin A.
Nutritive values Per Serving :
Protein 6.5 g
Cho 48 g
Fat 4.2 g
INGREDIENTS
1 teacup rice
1/4 teacup moong dal
2 cloves
2 sticks cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 onion, chopped
1/2 tablespoon chilli powder
2 large carrots, chopped
1 tablespoon oil
salt to taste
METHOD
1. Wash the rice and dal and keep aside.
2. Heat the oil and add the cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf and fry for 1/2 minute.
3. Add the onion, chilli powder and fry again for 1 minute.
4. Add the carrots, rice, dal, 2 1/2 teacups of water and salt.
5. Cook in a pressure cooker.
6. Press into greased moulds of the desired shape and unmould on a serving plate. Serve with youhurt.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
To combination of grains and pulses delivers essential amino acids required for growth as well as carbohydrates for energy.
The carrots deliver Vitamin A.
Nutritive values Per Serving :
Protein 6.5 g
Cho 48 g
Fat 4.2 g
CORN AND POTATO ROSTI
Rosti is a favourite Swiss delicacy. The crisp potatoes go well with corn.
INGREDIENTS
4 medium par-boiled potatoes
3/4 teacup cooked corn
1 onion, chopped
1 green chilli, finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated cheese
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste
METHOD
1. Peel the potatoes. Grate coarsely or slice. Sprinkle salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a large frying pan (preferably non-stick). Add onion and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the potatoes and corn and mix well. Spread the mixture in the pan.
4. Sprinkle the green chilli and cheese on top and cook on a slow flame for 10 minutes.
5. Turn the cake upside down in one piece.
6. Cook until crisp and brown on the underside.
7. Cut into piece and serve hot.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
Both corn and potatoes are excellent sources of energy.
Besides, they are laden with complex carbohydrates, fibre and a variety of minerals.
Nutritive values Per Serving :
Protein 3.5 g
Cho 27.9g
Fat 3.6g
INGREDIENTS
4 medium par-boiled potatoes
3/4 teacup cooked corn
1 onion, chopped
1 green chilli, finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated cheese
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste
METHOD
1. Peel the potatoes. Grate coarsely or slice. Sprinkle salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a large frying pan (preferably non-stick). Add onion and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the potatoes and corn and mix well. Spread the mixture in the pan.
4. Sprinkle the green chilli and cheese on top and cook on a slow flame for 10 minutes.
5. Turn the cake upside down in one piece.
6. Cook until crisp and brown on the underside.
7. Cut into piece and serve hot.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
Both corn and potatoes are excellent sources of energy.
Besides, they are laden with complex carbohydrates, fibre and a variety of minerals.
Nutritive values Per Serving :
Protein 3.5 g
Cho 27.9g
Fat 3.6g
JAFFLE TREATS
What do you get when you cross a toasted sandwhich with a waffle? A Jaffle!
INGREDIENTS
4 bread slices, lightly buttered (1 1/2 teaspoons butter approx.)
For the stuffing (no.1)
3 tablespoons crumbled cottage cheese (paneer)
6 tablespoons grated apple
2 tablespoons finely chopped celery (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chopped green chillies
salt to taste
For the stuffing (no.2)
3 tablespoons grated carrots
3 tablespoons crumbled cottage cheese (paneer)
2 tablespoons chopped dates
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped green chillies
salt to taste
METHOD
1. For the stuffing (no. 1), mix all the ingredients very well.
2. For the stuffing (no. 2), mix all the ingredients very well.
3. To proceed, place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down into a sandwhich maker waffle iron.
4. Spread the desired stuffing mixture and cover with the remaining two slices, buttered side up.
5. Toast for a few minutes or until golden in colour. Cut into two.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
An appetizing, low fat, easy to prepare treat.
Comes in handy when kids rush home hungry from school.
INGREDIENTS
4 bread slices, lightly buttered (1 1/2 teaspoons butter approx.)
For the stuffing (no.1)
3 tablespoons crumbled cottage cheese (paneer)
6 tablespoons grated apple
2 tablespoons finely chopped celery (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chopped green chillies
salt to taste
For the stuffing (no.2)
3 tablespoons grated carrots
3 tablespoons crumbled cottage cheese (paneer)
2 tablespoons chopped dates
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped green chillies
salt to taste
METHOD
1. For the stuffing (no. 1), mix all the ingredients very well.
2. For the stuffing (no. 2), mix all the ingredients very well.
3. To proceed, place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down into a sandwhich maker waffle iron.
4. Spread the desired stuffing mixture and cover with the remaining two slices, buttered side up.
5. Toast for a few minutes or until golden in colour. Cut into two.
Tips
Goodness Guide :
An appetizing, low fat, easy to prepare treat.
Comes in handy when kids rush home hungry from school.
nutritious cheela
ingredients:
rice
Mung pulse
Moth pulse
method: take these three things in a bowl in ration:2:2:1
and soak for overnight ! grind them in morning add tomato ,onion ,coorainder leave , salt according to taste and Caron seeds,for digestion purpose.
spread it on hot Tawa to make cheela of the same.
this will be a very nutritous cheela for ur kid! i've tried the same and my daughter loved it so much .
rice
Mung pulse
Moth pulse
method: take these three things in a bowl in ration:2:2:1
and soak for overnight ! grind them in morning add tomato ,onion ,coorainder leave , salt according to taste and Caron seeds,for digestion purpose.
spread it on hot Tawa to make cheela of the same.
this will be a very nutritous cheela for ur kid! i've tried the same and my daughter loved it so much .
Daliya n Oats fritters.
Recently tried this one for my daughter, this is my genuine recipe. Hope you all like it.
Soak daliya in hot water for 1 hour, dry roast quaker oats.
Strain daliya n mix oats to it.
Now add poha ( beaten rice ) , chopped onions, coriander leaves, garam masala , ginger garlic and green chilly paste and lemon juice and salt . If its too dry then add few drops of water. Shape as rolls or tikkis and roll in gram flour .
Deep fry in oil till brown and crispy.
Soak daliya in hot water for 1 hour, dry roast quaker oats.
Strain daliya n mix oats to it.
Now add poha ( beaten rice ) , chopped onions, coriander leaves, garam masala , ginger garlic and green chilly paste and lemon juice and salt . If its too dry then add few drops of water. Shape as rolls or tikkis and roll in gram flour .
Deep fry in oil till brown and crispy.
Courtesy: Shraddha from Babies, Food and Much More...
obesity In Children
Obesity in children is an upcoming hormonal problem, parents are facing now a days and most of the time it is due to inappropriate lifestyle of parents and hence children.
Parents usually encourage the child to eat as much as he/she can and that the junk food most of the time.
So we can say continous junk food and sedentary lifestyle (like instead of doing physical activities children are watching TV or playing video games) are the main causes of the obesity or weight gain which in turn leads to other multiple problems like young onset of Type 2 Diabetes, High Cholesterols, Heart problems, puberty problems, growth disorders, Gall bladder stones and many other innumerable medical problems.
Parents usually encourage the child to eat as much as he/she can and that the junk food most of the time.
So we can say continous junk food and sedentary lifestyle (like instead of doing physical activities children are watching TV or playing video games) are the main causes of the obesity or weight gain which in turn leads to other multiple problems like young onset of Type 2 Diabetes, High Cholesterols, Heart problems, puberty problems, growth disorders, Gall bladder stones and many other innumerable medical problems.
Diabetes In Children
Symptoms to watch out for diabetes in children.
1.Polyurea (throughout day and night ) - Child is going for urination again and again.
2. Increase thirst of child.
3. Weight loss (This is the most important symptom. Sometimes only complaint of parent is that child is not gaining weight inspite of ruling out all other common conditions.
4. Frequent infections.
5.Pain Abdomen This is more specific as there are two types of dibetes Type 1 and Type II .Type II belongs to adult diabetes and Type 1 Belongs to children onset diabetes Ketone are usually formed as there is deficiency of insulin in Type 1.Ketone formation leads to acidosis (ph of blood become more acidic) Child usually complaint of pain abdomen due to ketones.Sometimes pain in abdomen is so severe that child has to be admitted for the same. So history of recurrent pain abdomen with one or two admission in hospital is the indicator childhood diabetes.
5. Growth pattern of diabetes affected.
1.Polyurea (throughout day and night ) - Child is going for urination again and again.
2. Increase thirst of child.
3. Weight loss (This is the most important symptom. Sometimes only complaint of parent is that child is not gaining weight inspite of ruling out all other common conditions.
4. Frequent infections.
5.Pain Abdomen This is more specific as there are two types of dibetes Type 1 and Type II .Type II belongs to adult diabetes and Type 1 Belongs to children onset diabetes Ketone are usually formed as there is deficiency of insulin in Type 1.Ketone formation leads to acidosis (ph of blood become more acidic) Child usually complaint of pain abdomen due to ketones.Sometimes pain in abdomen is so severe that child has to be admitted for the same. So history of recurrent pain abdomen with one or two admission in hospital is the indicator childhood diabetes.
5. Growth pattern of diabetes affected.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Diaper Rash treatments
Recently my little one had a bad diaper rash after i took her to pool for swimming.. she enjoyed being in water. I had not got her swim diapers and the regular diaper really affected her a lot.
She suffered a lot from it. there are some tips that i got it from my friends , elders and nurse.
1. Apply olive oil or castor oil on the affected area.
2.Pure corn startch is really good. Every diaper change put the pure corn starch and it will soak the moisture.
3. 1 OZ of vinegar in a tub of water and making kid sit in that for 3-5 min.
4.Tripe paste-ointment for diaper rash is really best one. works fine and we can see changes in one diaper change( suggested by Nurse)
5. Do not apply powder when there is rash. My doc said NO to the powder.
She suffered a lot from it. there are some tips that i got it from my friends , elders and nurse.
1. Apply olive oil or castor oil on the affected area.
2.Pure corn startch is really good. Every diaper change put the pure corn starch and it will soak the moisture.
3. 1 OZ of vinegar in a tub of water and making kid sit in that for 3-5 min.
4.Tripe paste-ointment for diaper rash is really best one. works fine and we can see changes in one diaper change( suggested by Nurse)
5. Do not apply powder when there is rash. My doc said NO to the powder.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Shraavzz Toy Review... Sounds, Light, and Music.. Learning Toys
This is the toy my daughter plays having fun and learning in the process. When we went to walmart one day, i was just searching for some new toys. While i was searching and showing my little one few of them, she immediately got excited seeing this particular toy. Dint give a second thought before buying this toy.
This toy has four modes of Play
If we press the top button down, it spins making some funny noises .
if we press the animals, each animal gives its intro, for instance saying..''iam the monkey'' ''iam the lion''
there are 2 more animals Elephant and the Bear.
and they makes different animal sounds and asks to find out which animal makes such sound. So kids can learn in the process..
I try to teach my daughter showing ,this is the monkey or this is the elephant.I will spin th toy and ask her show me the monkey..where is the bear or the lion or the elephant. Its fun to play.
We can give this toy when they learn how to sit and play by them selves.
the only con for this toy is the music is not loud enough..well this is my personal opinion.
FISHER-PRICE GO BABY GO! CRAWL ALONG MUSICAL BALL
This is a Fun Toy, I bought this toy for my little one when she was 5 months old and was crawling on her tummy..Usually Babies will have lots of fun watching this monkey making all the funny sounds .My daughter too loved this toy and was always paying attention when we switch on this toy. The money makes all sorts of funny noises and grabs all the attention of the babies and in the learning process,gives them a reason to learn crawling across the floor chasing this monkey on the ball..Over all its a mere fun toy and the sounds are great and funnily effective.
My Daughter loved the Rhymes and all the Songs since she was days old. I use to sing her all the rhymes and she used to stop crying and all she did at that times was giving mommy all the cuty smiles listening to the songs. So thats the reason i bought this Toy for her and she instantly loved it. This toy looks like a Caterpillar holding the book.There are four pages in this book ,quite colorful and and she can turn the pages easily by her self and every time you turn the page , there comes 2 Rhyme songs with the lights and pictures in every page. The sound effects are great.
OMG, what to write about this cute little thing.This is my daughter's favourite toy of all .Her face just lits up when ever she sees this duck. She especially likes the way it Quacks and sings the songs . and I usually move the duck as if it is dancing while singing the song and my daughter laughs and screams will all the excitement and i my face also lits up seeing her happy and all excited. There were quite a few days when my little one hugged this ducky to bed and slept the whole afternoon.She Just loves and loves and loves this toy.
Well this bunny looks funny.It has 2 bumby feet where we can change the mode of the songs to just music or numbers or fun songs . When we switch on this toy it laughs and says''heheh..iam up and ready to play'' when ever my daughter hears to this bunny..she even wakes up from her sleep to play with this toy :) and this toy gives the description of it self with saying..I have bumby feet and two long ears and a fuzzy tail and a short nose and makes funny sounds along the way.
CAUTION : WHILE BUYING THIS TOY GO FOR THE SECOND EDITION. THE FIRST EDITION HAS BEEN RECALLED.
ONLY BUNNIES WITH 3 DIMENSIONAL NOSES ARE RECALLED AND NOT THE BUNNIES WITH FLAT NOSES EMBROIDERED AND STITCHED ARE NOT RECALLED
Vtech - Move and Crawl Electronic Activity Ball
This is a very nice nice activity ball to play with.Babies usually love this so much but unfortunately my daughter does'nt show much interest on this toy to play with. Its spins by it self singing the songs and there are 3 animal buttons, Monkey,cat and the puppy and number 1,2,3 buttons on this toy .If we press the buttons the animals makes thier noises , like the cat makes meow meow and the number says 1 ,2, 3. there is a little lady bug on the top of this ball to spin around.
LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table, Pink
My daughter loves this toy.This is like her first Musical table . She gets excited and engaged with this toy . What can i say, this toy is full of entertainment for her with music ,songs and colorful sparkling lights .
There are two modes of languages, English and Spanish . There is a piano on one side with 4 different color keys and it sings colors while playing with the piano. One the 2nd side, there is a spin rattel with colorfull tiny balls inside and it sings ABCD song. On the 3rd side there is this musical instrument which looks like a trumphet , and there is a key where the baby can slide from both sides and it sings the Numbers 1 to 10. On the 4th side there is a Case where the baby can learn to open and close it and says the same, when the baby opens the case it says "open'' and when closing it says ''close''. Usualy i ask my little one to open and she does .
and in one corner beside the Trumpet, there are 3 key buttons in the different shapes, Square, Circle and Triangle in 3 different colors Red,Yellow and Green . So when the baby is playing with those buttons, it says its shape and color and in this process the babies can learn different shapes and colors too. Daily i sit and teach my daughter those shapes and some times if i ask her to show me the Circle, she does . There is a Violin in the another corner where she can slide the button on it. and it sings Up .High..Low..Down . In the final corner in between the piano and spin rattle , there is a tortoise with a guitar where the baby can spin it and the colorful lights sparkle around the music table saying, lights on...lights off .
last but not least and most importantly there is a book in the middle of the table where the babies can change the page mode to just music or songs.
The babies can either play with toy standing having fun or sit and play removing all the 4 legs of the toy .
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Introducing Foods In First Year -- The Indian/AP Baby Way
I was advised to introduce solids after completion of 4 months but it was reiterated to me that milk should be the primary meal to the kid and solids is just to get the kid used to various textures gradually. Excessive drooling and those very observant glances whenever anyone ate (the Brahmi way ;)), I was told was the indication that the baby was ready for solids. However, the signs and readiness may vary from baby to baby. The pediatrician would let us know in one of the monthly or regular checkup visits.
Beginning With
Very ripe mashed banana without the seeds.
Cooked and mashed carrot.
Cooked apple without the skin.
Cooked peas, beans, beetroot.
The quantity however is really less, a spoonful or so to begin with. If the baby wants more, no problem.. but ensure that the milk intake at that point is not compromised and that milk is still to be consumed at a regular rate.
Cereals like Farex, Cerelac, Easum, First Foods or store-bought varieties based on the age-appropriate guidelines mentioned overleaf or as per the doctor.
Fruit juices
Home made juices of pomegranate, carrot, beetroot.. do not overdo on citrus juices like orange unless we get a nod from the ped.
Soups:
Homemade vegetable soups.
Rice:
Completion of 5 months, 6th month.. rice and dal fried and ground to a soft texture and cooked along with finely cut veggies.
The consistence of this rice and dal mix should be varied as per the kid's tolerance and taste preference. I used to give it in ghee (home-made). I find Durga Ghee to be tasty personally and so does the kid.
From 7th month onwards, the ped gradually asked me to try all the vegetables and I had tried a majority of them but avoided brinjal, bitter gourd.
By the end of first year, the kid should be able to eat more or less everything we as elders do, pretty much everything healthy and edible. Also, the powder texture should be made coarser gradually and by 11th month or so very softly cooked complete rice grains should be fine.
Sweet potato could be cooked and mashed but this is a little heavy on the tummy.
About giving Ragi, there are varied views but I was told to keep it until a later date so towards 8th month started on Ragi java or porridge based on kid's preference.
No added salt and sugar initially and gradually go for very very little salt. We might not like the taste without salt but for kids who are not introduced to that flavor it doesnt matter, so limit the sodium intake in first year of life.
Dairy
Rice with buttermilk was also introduced around the same age. There are again varied views as to when to go about introducing dairy products for a kid. here I was given a go ahead in the 7th month and started giving rice with curd/buttermilk.
However, introducing to whole milk or cow/buffalo milk was put off until the kid turned one year old at the best.
I started introducing porridge made of milk little by little as the kid showed no signs of allergy.
Water at this stage should be introduced with a glass or a spoon and the bottle dependence should gradually be weaned.
Egg
Again, there are varied views as to how and when to go about.. Some wait until the 10th month, but I was told to introduce it in 7th month, starting with egg yellow and not the white. White was told to be avoided up until the kid turns a year old. So, hard boiling the egg and giving the kid yellow if he/she likes it. As the time passed, introduced various forms of it like omlette in ghee, scrambled egg, bread omlette sweet/hot.
Non-Veg
After completing 9 months, I was told to try very softly cooked chicken and mutton kheema and fish gradually checking for allergies based on baby's preference. I started with fish, very little but not on a regular basis.. the number of times were few and far between. It again is a debatable issue and doc has mentioned that this or for that matter any new food should not be forced on kid and if and if they do want a little they will have it. Soups can also be given. Mooliga or the gravy in the bone is supposed to be a real healthy food and given to the food.
Whole Milk:
I was told to introduce it gradually substituting one routine feed with the whole milk, diluting at first and then switch completely from around 11 months of age or close to one year.
Sweets, ice-creams, chocolates should be avoided as much as possible but are definitely not a sin is what I was told from the age 10 months onwards... I personally feel that kid is fine enough getting the natural sugar from fruits rather than sweetening agents.
Date syrup is a good alternative for sugar in infants as it is told to avoid honey in the first year of life.
Beginning With
Very ripe mashed banana without the seeds.
Cooked and mashed carrot.
Cooked apple without the skin.
Cooked peas, beans, beetroot.
The quantity however is really less, a spoonful or so to begin with. If the baby wants more, no problem.. but ensure that the milk intake at that point is not compromised and that milk is still to be consumed at a regular rate.
Cereals like Farex, Cerelac, Easum, First Foods or store-bought varieties based on the age-appropriate guidelines mentioned overleaf or as per the doctor.
Fruit juices
Home made juices of pomegranate, carrot, beetroot.. do not overdo on citrus juices like orange unless we get a nod from the ped.
Soups:
Homemade vegetable soups.
Rice:
Completion of 5 months, 6th month.. rice and dal fried and ground to a soft texture and cooked along with finely cut veggies.
The consistence of this rice and dal mix should be varied as per the kid's tolerance and taste preference. I used to give it in ghee (home-made). I find Durga Ghee to be tasty personally and so does the kid.
From 7th month onwards, the ped gradually asked me to try all the vegetables and I had tried a majority of them but avoided brinjal, bitter gourd.
By the end of first year, the kid should be able to eat more or less everything we as elders do, pretty much everything healthy and edible. Also, the powder texture should be made coarser gradually and by 11th month or so very softly cooked complete rice grains should be fine.
Sweet potato could be cooked and mashed but this is a little heavy on the tummy.
About giving Ragi, there are varied views but I was told to keep it until a later date so towards 8th month started on Ragi java or porridge based on kid's preference.
No added salt and sugar initially and gradually go for very very little salt. We might not like the taste without salt but for kids who are not introduced to that flavor it doesnt matter, so limit the sodium intake in first year of life.
Dairy
Rice with buttermilk was also introduced around the same age. There are again varied views as to when to go about introducing dairy products for a kid. here I was given a go ahead in the 7th month and started giving rice with curd/buttermilk.
However, introducing to whole milk or cow/buffalo milk was put off until the kid turned one year old at the best.
I started introducing porridge made of milk little by little as the kid showed no signs of allergy.
Water at this stage should be introduced with a glass or a spoon and the bottle dependence should gradually be weaned.
Egg
Again, there are varied views as to how and when to go about.. Some wait until the 10th month, but I was told to introduce it in 7th month, starting with egg yellow and not the white. White was told to be avoided up until the kid turns a year old. So, hard boiling the egg and giving the kid yellow if he/she likes it. As the time passed, introduced various forms of it like omlette in ghee, scrambled egg, bread omlette sweet/hot.
Non-Veg
After completing 9 months, I was told to try very softly cooked chicken and mutton kheema and fish gradually checking for allergies based on baby's preference. I started with fish, very little but not on a regular basis.. the number of times were few and far between. It again is a debatable issue and doc has mentioned that this or for that matter any new food should not be forced on kid and if and if they do want a little they will have it. Soups can also be given. Mooliga or the gravy in the bone is supposed to be a real healthy food and given to the food.
Whole Milk:
I was told to introduce it gradually substituting one routine feed with the whole milk, diluting at first and then switch completely from around 11 months of age or close to one year.
Sweets, ice-creams, chocolates should be avoided as much as possible but are definitely not a sin is what I was told from the age 10 months onwards... I personally feel that kid is fine enough getting the natural sugar from fruits rather than sweetening agents.
Date syrup is a good alternative for sugar in infants as it is told to avoid honey in the first year of life.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Walker Experiences
Like in various other posts, I was a no walker until the baby stands up mom... The doctor has specifically mentioned not using the walkers until the baby does it on her own or stands up on her own at least. To my horror, a few of my cousins put the kid in the walker as and when she/he could sit up or make an attempt to sit as early as 6th or 7th month onwards. Those kids walked real fast and met that milestone pretty fast, but still what doctor said lingered on in my mind. I used to wonder when those moms compared milestones with my kid if I was depriving my kid of something by not providing an aid to walk... well, it is a personal choice to go for one or not.
My reviews on what I had used are as below...
Sreya walked on her own only in her 13th month after her birthday. She was able to stand and walk around the bed a little with the help of a the bed edge but nothing much.. As soon as I put her in a walker, within a week she was walking really well, halting a little but walking steadily.
I had gotten her a rocker/walker/swing combo by Amardeep when she was 9 months old but since it had just 4 wheels and the kid tended to walk side ways rather than to the front, she had a couple of real bad falls even when we were close behind watching her, so my personal experience, for kids who have learnt walking and who are yet to learn, it is a bad choice of a walker.. DO NOT USE THIS AS A WALKER. Rocker/stroller if you have a handling rod attached to it is fine.. but as a walker, strict NO.
The one in the topmost picture is the one like I said that could be bought if we start early... costs around 1600 to 2000/- which I felt is waste of money as the kid hardly used it for a couple of weeks. Again, it was because I started when she was totally ready to walk on her own, she had the stamina but did not know how to go about at that time, it was just a little push towards the final step... but like I already mentioned, early starters will have a little longer use of this...
If it is late starters like me, then this one which costs around 450/- to 500/- at the max should solve the purpose because once the kid starts walking on his/her own, she will no longer need this...
This one is a traditional yet good model which I got so that she can walk around on her own and since she was an on-the-go baby with most people carrying her all the while in the village, I had to have 2 spares, one to take wherever she goes and one to keep at home, this one was for us to carry around where she goes like a temple, any neighbors place, etc.
Above everything I would say round walker helped me a lot, relatively less expensive considering the very short span of time it had been used by me..
But as usual you need to keep a close watch when the kid uses it and ensure that the ground is even, without any ridges between stones/granite, uneven mud, etc. With an active kid like mine, there were falls even in this when she started running around enthusiastically in this one when she realized that she could mobilize from one place to another and pull and pluck things :((.. so caution must be exercised at all costs...
The one in the picture is a sit to stand walker.. once the kid is walking on her own without falling, this would be of good use because with my kid, she used to bend forward a lot to play with the games rather than use it as an aid to walk... the toys in front provided distraction from walking, so I got the one in the toy section pictures with less games... It is according to me, not a very good buy for Indian kids or rather kids in India since it is very light, the kid would fall unless he/she understands grip.
I loved my traditional 3-wheeled walker, wooden one the best of all because that provided a good grip to stand on with the heavy wooden bottom.. will put up the pic when I get it from the neighbor I handed it over to..
Whatever be the walker, the ground rule is stay close, really really close and keep a watchful eye when you let others handle this for you.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Points on Child Abuse...
Childhood Depression??????.....
Isnt it really scary getting to know a lot of things right when you have a little kid to raise... pheww!! nothing to get scare (I tell this myself every day) just another insight, another view point...
Check out...
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Toy Review - 1
This is one post that I have been wanting to do for a while.. when I look at any sites for toy reviews, I get the review as a product but not a mother's review on it.. as to how useful it would be and stuff like that.y
When I knew I was pregnant, I must confess that one of the primary reasons to be happy other than the emotional part of it was that I could now buy and play with all the toys without getting those looks ;).. but only when it came to reality did I know choosing toys is the toughest job I had to date.. utilities are something which are a must and even when there is choice you know it fully well as to what suits the needs, but what suits the baby needs.. no idea!!
The first toy I got to her was a mobile for her cradle/swing, the traditional model with just toys, something like this, they say the first few months or at least a month the kid cannot focus on anything but still for my satisfaction... and with a month or so when the kid would play with her hands and feet they would touch the mobile toys and that would be a game for her.. later on as months passed by 3rd month beginning she was holding the toy and pulling it and trying to hold another one, so it was a good time-pass item is what I feel.. Along with these, we get those good old jhoomars plastic ones which make sounds with manual key, they like the sound and bright colors of them too... Alternatively, I tied a small brass temple bell to the swing which would make that sweet jingle noise when we swing the cradle and was pleasant to my ears, so you can try it as well.
Rattles:
Then came rattles, the typical hello baby plastic ones we get in Indian Market along with Etikoppaka wooden rattles that I got from Kalanjali and a few craft melas.. basically reading a lot about lead poisoning and effects of bad plastic usage I was kind of scared to use any toy as the kid tended to put everything in her mouth. So, my obvious choice was washable ones with good plastic.
Sounds and Sights:
When the kid could recognize sounds and lights my hunt was for toys that would give out sound and also bright and safe for her and since I stayed in a remote area, the choice was less but the key with colors and sounds was something that I liked and the mobile phone which would recite ABCs and 123s with music and lights was the second one.
The cloth book which worked as a teether as well as a book and for sounds is a good pick too as the kid liked the bright colors, the plastic figurines worked as teethers and it was washable.
Then came the board books which had bright colors and pictures and more than as educational medium I used them for sights and even if she licked them or put them in water, I could just wipe them clean.. as for the books I prefer anything other than Vicky Series as the other models have bright photos closer to real ones rather than the painted ones in Vicky Series.. check out the pictures before you get them, they should appeal to the eyes.
When the kid could sit and play, I went to the stacking toys, both traditional Indian doll in doll ones and the FunSkool ones, the kid could not actually understand the doll-in-doll set but liked to play with bright rings and gradually learnt to stack them and now over time identifies colors as we talk casually, so it was a good investment too..
Finally, when she could sit and scribble on the floor and tear paper into pieces I went for this magic slate on which she could scribble and pass her time, however, this should be under strict supervision as the pen has a pointed edge and she can put it in eyes or hurt herself. and this is a toy only after a year or so..
One more toy set that caught my attention and was really helpful in keeping her occupied was the vegetable and fruit set, plastic ones which were available in the market.. the colors were bright, they looked good and the kid had a nice time playing with them... we should, however, be there all the time to see that the kid does not put them in mouth and check the set and see if there are any toys with sharp edges. I must say these are the ones which provided her a lot of playtime when she was just about rolling over and sitting up with support, the bright colors caught her fancy and she used to play with them happily... As a toddler, she happily carries them around in a basket and gives them one by one when we ask their names, so it is fun and educative at the same time.
Puppets:
These hand puppets and finger puppets are good interactive toys as we can make sounds and play act a lot of things and the kid loves it when we speak in funny tones... since I was a non TV person, she had to make do with these active play sessions.. Thanks Caps for the idea, your rabbit gift gave me ideas to get more..
Swing:
The swing which kind of looks like this is a good source on enjoyment and once the kid was sitting upright on her own, I got her this one.. in fact a few of them and set up at various locations so that she can swing and watch out things on road, she loves it and so do I as it keeps her busy.. but the down side is she is so used to it that she wont sleep without a swing ;).
Bath Toys:
The plastic ducks, kitty toys, Mickey set and the other toys which would make that squeaky noise are good for bath time when the kid starts throwing tantrums to lie down still or sit up still.. these are of good use to me now after one year.
When she came to the age where she could sit with confidence and needed no support then I went for a baby pool as it was summer.. this was an inflatable pool and provided ample of cushoning for the kid to sit it, splash in some water and have fun.. I used to throw the plastic veggies, bath toys and a ball and the kid would just squeal and play with delight, so according to me a good buy... the balls that you get in the market, those very soft exercise balls would be a good idea rather than the plastic ones.. remember the smiley ones, yellow ones... also, the ball in the picture is an inflatable one with colorful designs, light weight and a good source of entertainment.
Since I was a strict no-walker until she stands on her own parent, I had gotten her a sit to stand walker, which had some play stuff in front and 4 wheels to walk which we made her do under supervision. The kid initially was scared to walk on it alone but now when she loves walking all over she likes using it like a stroller and have loads and loads of fun pushing it around.. I have the traditional wooden 3-wheel walker which was of great help too as it was heavy, it provided her the much needed balance. This plastic one however, is very light weight and when the kid is learning to walk, it is not a good idea as the grip to stand is not provided. So, for starters go for the sturdy old wooden one and go for this later on if you have space to put it at home :). There are ones in the market with more toys and frills in the front but the kid's focus would be more on front than on walking, so went for a simple one, this one cost me 450/-
Pillow Toys:
One gift that my mom got and I and the kid love to bits are these convertible pillow toys.. which she can play with during the day and sleep on them at nights, so they are her full-day companions and the bright colors make them appealing to the eye. They are easy to wash and light weight. The velcro underneath it makes them toys and undo the velcro and it is a pillow, priced at 100/- each, they are a good buy.
The latest to the collection is her tricycle.. she is mostly an outdoor person and I cannot carry her around, so I find it really useful... it is different than the conventional ones in that it has a handle which can be used to push along without bending, has a sun guard, foot rest and a whole lot of attachments which can later on be taken out as the kid's requirements keep changing.. This particular one has a supporting rod and hand rest like a stroller which would keep the kid inside without falling forward, the tyres are strong and I feel that 1900/- bucks that I spent for is worth it as I can use it for the next couple of years conveniently.
More later... waiting for a lot more reviews from this site users... moms, please help!!!
When I knew I was pregnant, I must confess that one of the primary reasons to be happy other than the emotional part of it was that I could now buy and play with all the toys without getting those looks ;).. but only when it came to reality did I know choosing toys is the toughest job I had to date.. utilities are something which are a must and even when there is choice you know it fully well as to what suits the needs, but what suits the baby needs.. no idea!!
Rattles:
Then came rattles, the typical hello baby plastic ones we get in Indian Market along with Etikoppaka wooden rattles that I got from Kalanjali and a few craft melas.. basically reading a lot about lead poisoning and effects of bad plastic usage I was kind of scared to use any toy as the kid tended to put everything in her mouth. So, my obvious choice was washable ones with good plastic.
When the kid could recognize sounds and lights my hunt was for toys that would give out sound and also bright and safe for her and since I stayed in a remote area, the choice was less but the key with colors and sounds was something that I liked and the mobile phone which would recite ABCs and 123s with music and lights was the second one.
The cloth book which worked as a teether as well as a book and for sounds is a good pick too as the kid liked the bright colors, the plastic figurines worked as teethers and it was washable.
Then came the board books which had bright colors and pictures and more than as educational medium I used them for sights and even if she licked them or put them in water, I could just wipe them clean.. as for the books I prefer anything other than Vicky Series as the other models have bright photos closer to real ones rather than the painted ones in Vicky Series.. check out the pictures before you get them, they should appeal to the eyes.
When the kid could sit and play, I went to the stacking toys, both traditional Indian doll in doll ones and the FunSkool ones, the kid could not actually understand the doll-in-doll set but liked to play with bright rings and gradually learnt to stack them and now over time identifies colors as we talk casually, so it was a good investment too..
Finally, when she could sit and scribble on the floor and tear paper into pieces I went for this magic slate on which she could scribble and pass her time, however, this should be under strict supervision as the pen has a pointed edge and she can put it in eyes or hurt herself. and this is a toy only after a year or so..
Puppets:
These hand puppets and finger puppets are good interactive toys as we can make sounds and play act a lot of things and the kid loves it when we speak in funny tones... since I was a non TV person, she had to make do with these active play sessions.. Thanks Caps for the idea, your rabbit gift gave me ideas to get more..
Swing:
The swing which kind of looks like this is a good source on enjoyment and once the kid was sitting upright on her own, I got her this one.. in fact a few of them and set up at various locations so that she can swing and watch out things on road, she loves it and so do I as it keeps her busy.. but the down side is she is so used to it that she wont sleep without a swing ;).
Bath Toys:
The plastic ducks, kitty toys, Mickey set and the other toys which would make that squeaky noise are good for bath time when the kid starts throwing tantrums to lie down still or sit up still.. these are of good use to me now after one year.
Since I was a strict no-walker until she stands on her own parent, I had gotten her a sit to stand walker, which had some play stuff in front and 4 wheels to walk which we made her do under supervision. The kid initially was scared to walk on it alone but now when she loves walking all over she likes using it like a stroller and have loads and loads of fun pushing it around.. I have the traditional wooden 3-wheel walker which was of great help too as it was heavy, it provided her the much needed balance. This plastic one however, is very light weight and when the kid is learning to walk, it is not a good idea as the grip to stand is not provided. So, for starters go for the sturdy old wooden one and go for this later on if you have space to put it at home :). There are ones in the market with more toys and frills in the front but the kid's focus would be more on front than on walking, so went for a simple one, this one cost me 450/-
Pillow Toys:
One gift that my mom got and I and the kid love to bits are these convertible pillow toys.. which she can play with during the day and sleep on them at nights, so they are her full-day companions and the bright colors make them appealing to the eye. They are easy to wash and light weight. The velcro underneath it makes them toys and undo the velcro and it is a pillow, priced at 100/- each, they are a good buy.
More later... waiting for a lot more reviews from this site users... moms, please help!!!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Brushing Teeth
Babies can begin teething at 3 months old; however it is more common for babies to begin teething around 6 to 7 months old. The first teeth that will appear are usually the lower incisors or front teeth. By the age of 3, children should have their complete set of 20 "pearly whites." It is never too early to begin a regular brushing routine with your child.
As the teeth grow, use a toothbrush that is designed for your child's age, as indicated on the package. Avoid using toothpaste that contains fluoride until your child is old enough to understand that swallowing the toothpaste should be avoided.
Use the correct brushing and flossing method, when caring for your child's teeth. Most children like to show their independence by doing tasks, such as brushing their teeth, on their own. Allow your kids brush their teeth themselves, either before or after you have completely removed all of the plaque. You should, however, brush your child's teeth twice a day until he is able to brush his own teeth correctly, around the age of six. When you are confident your child is capable of brushing alone, buy an egg timer or use a stop watch and time your child's brushing for the recommended two minutes. When complete, always do a final inspection. Remember to applaud your child on a job well done, and if you do notice any teeth that have been missed, visually show your child the area and demonstrate how he should remove the plaque or food.
I personally find the complete set very useful... it is a product of Summer Infant and it is one of those paisa vasool items I bought for Sreya.. the finger brush and its buds are useful pre-toothing stage.. 3 months age and upwards with very soft bristles and help in bite gum stimulation... the top most one in the picture is the gum stimulator which the kid uses to bite on to satisfy that teething urge and can used up to about a year or so until the pearly whites pop up... Sreya cut her first tooth when she was close to a year and now has 4, so I used the second one up to a year and even now.. in fact, I let her pick up whatever brush she wants to and go about brushing or do brushing acting.. the finger brush, however, is dangerous to mom's fingers after the teeth eruption ;)...
Right now, we have graduated to the third brush, where I just give it to her after washing and she munches on it happily, I just clean her tongue also with the brush as the bristles are really soft...
Coming to the toothpaste.. Orajel is one brand which caters to non-fluoride age group.. am doing a little bit research on it, so more on it once I gather it... Since I can manage to get Orajel through friends and relatives, it is manageable as of now but I want to search on what is available in Indian market for that tricky age group..
Need For Brushing:
1. Wide spread misconceptions are that you need to clean the teeth only after they pop out, nope gum and mouth cleaning and gum stimulation is very much vital to how the teeth will erupt in the long run, so care starts right as a newborn, so keep working at it...
2. Milk teeth do not have to taken care of well, they are eventually going to fall out anyways... nope, they are the foundation for the actual teeth, so the care is as much vital as the others...
Care
****
**As a newborn, after 3 months, clean the gums with a very soft cloth and warm water both clean and sterile.
**As an infant, the finger brush.
**In infant to toddler transition, either a brush or a stimulator.
**Toddler, tooth brush along with paste (non-fluoride).
Selecting a Tooth Paste
********************
- Fluoride :
. Below 4 years of age – do not use fluoridated toothpaste as till this age, the child ingests part of the toothpaste.
. Between 4 to 14 years of age – fluoride is required in toothpaste as at this age the teeth enamel is permeable and therefore benefits from the fluoride.
. Above 14 years of age – fluoridated toothpaste is not required as the teeth enamel is no longer permeable and therefore the fluoride is not used. Excess fluoride may lead to fluorosis.
- Attractive color (if possible).
- Should produce foam.
- Change the toothpaste every time you buy a new pack as frequent use of the same formulation makes the bacteria present in the teeth resistant to that toothpaste. (This applies to you too).
- Do not use only gel based toothpaste for your child as gels serve more as mouthwash rather than for cleaning teeth. Keep changing the type of toothpaste the child uses.
So, you can ask for toothpaste for child, many are available, including Oral-B, Podflor, Kidzee etc.
But always remember ... It is the brushing action which is more important than the toothpaste used. For the child to have healthy teeth it is important to make him aware of the importance of good dental hygiene right from early age – Brushing twice a day, regular visits to the dentist, sensible eating and no neglect of caries even of milk teeth.
Do not feed the kid anything other than water before the bedtime... even if you have to feed them milk in sleep make sure they drink a little bit of water to wash down the liquid thoroughly from the mouth as the bacteria will work full force during nighttime.
Brushing and oral hygiene is very much vital in childcare.. we take utmost care as to what goes into her tummy, food wise, so it has be an extra-cautious attempt to see to it that entry to the stomach is clean as well ;).
As the teeth grow, use a toothbrush that is designed for your child's age, as indicated on the package. Avoid using toothpaste that contains fluoride until your child is old enough to understand that swallowing the toothpaste should be avoided.
Use the correct brushing and flossing method, when caring for your child's teeth. Most children like to show their independence by doing tasks, such as brushing their teeth, on their own. Allow your kids brush their teeth themselves, either before or after you have completely removed all of the plaque. You should, however, brush your child's teeth twice a day until he is able to brush his own teeth correctly, around the age of six. When you are confident your child is capable of brushing alone, buy an egg timer or use a stop watch and time your child's brushing for the recommended two minutes. When complete, always do a final inspection. Remember to applaud your child on a job well done, and if you do notice any teeth that have been missed, visually show your child the area and demonstrate how he should remove the plaque or food.
Right now, we have graduated to the third brush, where I just give it to her after washing and she munches on it happily, I just clean her tongue also with the brush as the bristles are really soft...
Coming to the toothpaste.. Orajel is one brand which caters to non-fluoride age group.. am doing a little bit research on it, so more on it once I gather it... Since I can manage to get Orajel through friends and relatives, it is manageable as of now but I want to search on what is available in Indian market for that tricky age group..
Need For Brushing:
1. Wide spread misconceptions are that you need to clean the teeth only after they pop out, nope gum and mouth cleaning and gum stimulation is very much vital to how the teeth will erupt in the long run, so care starts right as a newborn, so keep working at it...
2. Milk teeth do not have to taken care of well, they are eventually going to fall out anyways... nope, they are the foundation for the actual teeth, so the care is as much vital as the others...
Care
****
**As a newborn, after 3 months, clean the gums with a very soft cloth and warm water both clean and sterile.
**As an infant, the finger brush.
**In infant to toddler transition, either a brush or a stimulator.
**Toddler, tooth brush along with paste (non-fluoride).
Selecting a Tooth Paste
********************
- Fluoride :
. Below 4 years of age – do not use fluoridated toothpaste as till this age, the child ingests part of the toothpaste.
. Between 4 to 14 years of age – fluoride is required in toothpaste as at this age the teeth enamel is permeable and therefore benefits from the fluoride.
. Above 14 years of age – fluoridated toothpaste is not required as the teeth enamel is no longer permeable and therefore the fluoride is not used. Excess fluoride may lead to fluorosis.
- Attractive color (if possible).
- Should produce foam.
- Change the toothpaste every time you buy a new pack as frequent use of the same formulation makes the bacteria present in the teeth resistant to that toothpaste. (This applies to you too).
- Do not use only gel based toothpaste for your child as gels serve more as mouthwash rather than for cleaning teeth. Keep changing the type of toothpaste the child uses.
So, you can ask for toothpaste for child, many are available, including Oral-B, Podflor, Kidzee etc.
But always remember ... It is the brushing action which is more important than the toothpaste used. For the child to have healthy teeth it is important to make him aware of the importance of good dental hygiene right from early age – Brushing twice a day, regular visits to the dentist, sensible eating and no neglect of caries even of milk teeth.
Do not feed the kid anything other than water before the bedtime... even if you have to feed them milk in sleep make sure they drink a little bit of water to wash down the liquid thoroughly from the mouth as the bacteria will work full force during nighttime.
Brushing and oral hygiene is very much vital in childcare.. we take utmost care as to what goes into her tummy, food wise, so it has be an extra-cautious attempt to see to it that entry to the stomach is clean as well ;).
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