It’s never easy having your little one get used to a completely new environment. Be sure to be patient with your little one and reward them for good behavior.
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Your family has planned a vacation and the day finally arrives to take a road trip! As much as you plan ahead, always plan for the unexpected. When you are traveling with your little one, be sure s/he is fitting snug in the carseat and properly buckled up. It is important to remember that when your little one is next to a window during summertime, the carseat can warm up quite fast and cause your baby to start feeling hot. Be sure you keep the A/C on in the car at a comfortable temperature and check their backs every so often to make sure they are not sweating and uncomfortable. It is sometimes very difficult for them to express this uncomfortability and it is also very difficult to determine why your baby might be crying if they are feeling hot.
Babies often times sleep well in the car as its moving. In order for them to feel most comfortable so they have a good rest in the car, try to give a nice warm bath with your little one before going on the trip. Give a nice, soothing bath using Baby Mantra’s Shampoo & Body Wash (partnered with Conditioner) followed by Calming Massage Oil. Baby Mantra’s Calming Massage Oil, in particular, will soothe and relax your baby’s skin, leaving it soft and supple. Throughout the trip, be sure to apply Baby Mantra's Calming Lotion in the event that you drive through dry, colder locations.
Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and also use this time to bond well with your little one as they visit the great outdoors and join you on their very first, memorable road trip! This is also a great article which provides tips for going on a road trip with your little one.
]]>Some tips for soothing your baby before s/he takes a shot:
As a parent, the best you can do is prepare your little one for a shot and have him/her be as relaxed and happy/giggly as possible before taking the shot. Typically, at 2 months, your little one will be receiving the following shots: HepB (Hepatitis B virus, prevents liver infection and possibly cancer), DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), Hib (Haemophilus influenza which is a bacterium that can cause flu-like symptoms), Polio (paralyzing condition which still has no cure), PCV13 (prevents pneumococcal disease which causes fever, cough, chest pain, etc.), and RV (prevents gastroenteritis). If you see continued bleeding and redness where the shot was administered, please consult your doctor.
]]>Some tips for soothing your baby include the following:
Your baby will grow his/her full set of teeth by the age of 3, so it is important to regularly apply these tips to allow your child to have a good night’s rest.
]]>As parents, it’s very important to maintain consistency and plan events around your child’s schedule. Your child will become more used to a regular schedule and will likely be less fussy if s/he is following a schedule. However, setting up that schedule can be difficult and you should follow what works best for you and your significant other. This is the routine we follow with our 1.5 y/o (not to say this is the only routine that works, but offering a perspective that works for us):
We make sure our child is drinking lots of water throughout the day to allow for regular urination and pooping. We find that whenever we are off from this schedule, our child is inconvenienced and does act more fussy. Maintaining this regularity not only keeps our baby calm, but it keeps us as parents calm as well.
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It is always best to take a proactive approach towards these tantrums by massaging your baby on a regular basis. Baby Mantra’s Calming Massage Oil is encouraged to be applied and gently rubbed on a child’s skin after bath time; couple this with soft, soothing music to help the baby relax.
In extreme cases where your baby is not able to pay attention to one task and cannot sit for a long time, you should check with your doctor if your child may be showing early signs of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
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Diaper rashes generally improve after a few days of at-home care with the use of ointment and more frequent diaper changes. If the rash looks infected (blisters on the diaper area, fever, redness, swelling, etc), be sure to call your child’s pediatrician.
]]>A 14-year study found that problems in a child’s teenage years could be traced back to a lack of quality time with dads in their early months. Be sure to cherish every moment with your little one don’t forget to smile, touch, and play with them to show them how much you care!
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Here are some awesome tips which will help you keep your hair healthy and shiny during pregnancy:
1) Its extremely important to maintain a well-balanced diet.
Your body needs more nutritions during pregnancy. Eating healthy diet during pregnancy is very important for you and your baby, but it's extremely important to take care of your hair as well. You can add more hair friendly foods to your daily diet. Insufficient vitamins and proteins can lead to hair loss.
2) Using coconut oil on hair and massaging scalp is very important.
Coconut Oil works magic on dry hair and doing regular massages can help you relax and reduces stress. Also Aloe Vera gel is known to cool scalp.
3) Combing hair on regular basis.
Combing hair is very important, you cannot avoid combing hair because its frizzy and dry. Combing helps regulate blood circulation in the scalp but make sure not to over brush it either. Use milder shampoo & conditioner.
4) Be very careful about what kind of hair treatment you use.
There are so many chemicals in hair treatment products out there, so try to use natural and chemical free colors/dyes during pregnancy.
5) Egg, Yogurt and Olive Oil hair mask.
In a bowl, mix egg yolk, yogurt and Olive Oil to make a paste and apply to hair once a week as a conditioner. See how healthy and shiny your hair can be!!
Remember you cannot control hair loss overnight, it is part of pregnancy cycle. It takes some time for your hair to come back to normal post delivery!
Stay Tuned for our next blog!!
]]>When it comes to pregnancy, it is no secret that moms often feel under the weather, especially during the first trimester. Morning sickness and nausea are common challenges for expecting mothers, and with such a limitation on safe medications that can be taken during pregnancy, many moms struggle to find a solution.
Ginger has long been known to offer comfort to those suffering nausea, but is it safe for expecting moms? Multiple studies confirm that there are in fact benefits to ginger during pregnancy and it is safe for pregnant women to use. One study, conducted by the Chiang Mai University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2001, revealed that Ginger definitively reduced nausea for pregnant women. Additionally, the pregnancies confirmed to have no negative effects from the Ginger. This study, among others, has helped expecting mothers feel relief and confidence in knowing that Ginger is safe to use for themselves and for baby.
The benefits of Ginger go beyond fighting nausea. Women suffering from menstrual and uterine spasms, or dysmenorrhea, have also felt relief with the help of Ginger. Studies have shown that the use of Ginger can generate smooth muscle activity in the uterus. Relief from cramps is something pregnant women, and all women, can appreciate.
Whether you prefer Ginger tea, Ginger Ale, or Ginger soup, this is one spice that you will want to keep around during your pregnancy.
We want to be here as a resource for expecting mothers and new mothers. Offering the best organic baby skin care products, including all natural baby wash and shampoo, and EWG verified baby lotion, allows us to bring comfort and confidence to motherhood. Know your baby is safe and the products you use are natural and healthy with Baby Mantra.
]]>It’s party time! Your little one is turning one year older, and even though it may be all fun and games for the kiddos, it can be a bit of a headache for parents. Party planning for kids' birthdays can also be a fun time. If you’re looking for some fresh ideas, and a little support, we’ve got you covered with some tips for party planning for kids' birthdays:
Pick a Theme
Before you buy the invitations and order the cake, you must first decide what the theme of the party is going to be. Does your son or daughter have a favorite color, TV show, or superhero? Pick out a theme that will be easy to coordinate with all of the decorations, invites, and goody bags.
Get Your Supplies
If you are party planning for kids' birthdays, you will need to stock up on party supplies. If you are providing food and drinks, make sure to have it all ready to go, including the ice. We suggest finger foods that are easy for kids to eat. You will need plates and silverware for the food (plastic is recommended for easy clean up), and cups and napkins. All of the themed decorations will need to be purchased or made. If you are offering goody bags for the guests, make sure to buy the bags, the toys, and candy so you can stuff them ahead of time. Whether you are serving cake or cupcakes, make sure you have plenty for the guests. Most importantly, don’t forget to have trash bags on hand.
Bring the Fun
If the party is not at a venue where entertainment is provided, plan ahead. Kids will look forward to games, toys, and party activities. Be prepared to have plenty of entertainment for the kids including arts and crafts, party games, and maybe even a piñata. Think about the age group and the number of guests you expect.
After the party is over, it’s time to wind down the kids. With the help of natural baby products, like EWG baby lotion and all natural baby wash, the little ones will sleep well and so will you after a long day of partying!
]]>If you have an upcoming flight planned with your baby and are wondering what to expect, you can ease your mind by familiarizing yourself with some recommendations for safe travel with baby. Many new moms and dads who don’t know what to expect when traveling with a baby can feel stressed before a flight. That’s not a good feeling to have before a family trip. Preparation should be fun, so allow it to be with these tips for flying on a plane with an infant. Here you will find some suggestions based on other parents experiences.
Politeness Will Get You Far
It probably won’t surprise you that many people dread getting a seat on a plane that’s by a baby. They don’t want to hear crying or constant chatter, and they often get upset with little ones who innocently kick their seat or have to keep getting up for bathroom trips. As a parent of a baby on board a plane, politely excuse yourself and your infant when inconveniences happen. You know they usually can’t be helped, but your fellow passengers might need some gentle reminders that you’re doing everything you can to make things pleasant for all. Politeness works wonders when solving airplane challenges.
You May or May Not Get Your Ideal Seat
If you can pick your seat ahead of time, do it. It helps to position you and your family in just the right place for easy bathroom breaks and frequent walks. Sometimes, however, you can’t pick your seat ahead of time. If this is your situation, head straight to the check-in desk when you arrive at the airport and ask to choose a baby-friendly location. And, remember that parents and kids get priority boarding with most airlines, so you can go straight to the front of the line and settle yourself on the plane before passengers without kids.
Most Airlines Charge Exorbitantly for Bags
Whether you have checked bags or carry-on bags, most airlines today will charge you exorbitantly for your luggage. So, it’s best to pack light and leave everything you won’t absolutely need at home. With the fees associated with checked-in and carry-on luggage, some parents find it cheaper to purchase some things they’ll need for baby when they arrive in their destination. Of course, you will need to get those items back home, or consume them, or donate them.
What to Expect When Traveling With a Baby: Everything and Anything
For parents wondering what to expect when traveling with baby, it’s important to remember to check with the airline and see if baby must be placed in an approved car seat while traveling. Understand that any drinks you might want onboard for baby, such as water or juice, may cost you much more than you’d pay at the grocery store before you leave or even at the airport gift shop. Also, parents will want to give little ones something to suck on to relieve ear pressure. And, keeping a container of baby rash ointment nearby is a good idea. Baby Mantra makes a great baby rash ointment that you can take on your plane trip with baby. We provide parents with the best baby skin care products, including a safe baby shampoo, that can be squeezed into TSA-approved small bottles for use on airplanes. You can check out Baby Mantra’s range of baby skin care products in our online shop.
]]>Motherhood is full of beauty and adventure, but it also comes with challenges. Finding time to stay fit is something many moms struggle with. A lot of moms can feel like balancing motherhood and fitness is unachievable, but with the right tools and support it can be easier than you think.
Find a Time That Works for You
Before motherhood, mornings may have been your favorite time to exercise. Getting children up in the morning, dressed, fed and off to school can take a big chunk out of your morning. If you are a stay-at-home mom or work from home, try a midday workout when you have more time to yourself. If you are a working mom, fit your workout into your lunch break. If evenings are a little more relaxed, consider a nighttime workout regimen. Balancing motherhood and fitness will only work if you make the time to fit it into your schedule.
Mix it up
It can be easy to get caught in the circuit training rut as you reach a plateau. Think beyond the treadmill and try taking a new class. Aerobics classes like Zumba, kickboxing and yoga are great workouts, plus the group setting creates a sense of comradery. If organized fitness isn’t your thing, focus on incorporating an active lifestyle. Taking the kids for walks in the park, family bike rides, or morning stretches with the littles ones are all things you can do with your family as a fun activity.
Stick to it
Balancing motherhood and fitness takes time and dedication. Staying committed to your fitness routine and surrounding yourself with other like-minded moms is a great way to help yourself stick to it. It’s ok to take some time for yourself and make your health a priority. If you are dedicated to taking care of your body, it will take care of you.
Once you get a fitness routine that works for your family, you will start to notice a positive change in your mood and energy. Keeping families feeling good and healthy is what we are all about. With our organic baby bath products, like baby shea butter and the best cream for diaper rash, Baby Mantra Diaper Rash Ointment, your little ones will be looking and feeling just as good as you are.
]]>Being supermom is a tough job. More time for your family means less time for you, so it’s important to have a healthy diet to keep you going. Nutrient-rich superfoods are good for the body, and will help keep you fueled while you’re running around saving the world. Check out this list of our favorite superfoods for moms:
Nuts
Nuts are an easy, grab-n-go superfood snack for busy moms. Nuts are full of protein and will help boost your energy. Eat them alone, on top of your favorite salad, or in your morning cereal.
Dark Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and broccoli, are low in calories but rich in nutrients including Vitamin C, K, B, and E. Packed with antioxidants, they are great for the skin and eyes. Enjoy them sautéed, steamed, or raw.
Avocados
Full of healthy fats, avocados can help lower cholesterol, control weight gain, and are good for the heart. Try avocado toast for breakfast, guacamole for lunch, or an avocado salad for dinner. Avocados are definitely one of the tastiest superfoods for moms.
Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, oh my! Full of potassium and Vitamin C, they are jam-packed with antioxidants which can help prevent vascular damage, protect the blood vessels, and can even improve eyesight.
Dark Chocolate
This is not a test. Dark chocolate is in fact one of the best superfoods for moms and can have many benefits for the body. Good for bone strength, and helping control blood pressure, dark chocolate is a healthy way to treat yourself.
Being supermom is a lot of work, but a healthy diet is important when taking care of baby. By using organic baby bath products, like baby shea butter and Baby Mantra Diaper Rash Ointment, the best cream for diaper rash, your little one’s skin will be clean and soothed.
]]>Pregnancy can be overwhelming with so many decisions about birth plans, nursery furniture, diapers, and car seats. Finding a way to maintain a positive and open mind is going to be important during the next nine months. Practicing mindfulness can be a great way to keep a level head through the challenges of pregnancy. While there are many benefits of mindfulness during pregnancy, here are five reasons why we suggest you give it a try:
Practice Makes Patience
It is easy to become impatient during pregnancy. After all, nine months is a long time to wait to see the beautiful face of your little one. Accepting that everything takes time will help you along this journey. With a little bit of practice, patience will become second nature.
Deeper Sleep
A good night’s rest can be difficult to achieve during pregnancy. Taking time before bed to reflect; meditation can allow for a deeper sleep.
Healthy Environment
Creating a healthy environment for baby means more than a safe home. Emotional health is also important for the family. Don’t neglect your feelings or the feelings of loved ones. Remain cognizant of your emotional well-being and don’t be afraid to express yourself.
Reduce Stress
Life comes with stress, but how we deal with them is what matters. Remembering to breathe, thinking before you speak, and being comfortable with saying “no” can help. Be mindful of your body’s needs so you don’t overcommit and cause unnecessary stress.
Strengthen Relationships
Support systems are critical during and after pregnancy. It’s important to take the time to consider others, thank them for their help, and show gratitude however you can. Recognizing the significant role they play in your life will help strengthen the relationship.
Give mindfulness a try and see how the positive changes in your life change things. Developing all natural baby skin care products, like calming lotion and baby massage oil, is how we remain mindful of mothers and the needs of their little ones. Your concerns are our concerns. Helping you have peace of mind is what we strive to do.
]]>When you make the decision to breastfeed your baby, there are many factors that need to be considered. Moms must become aware of the foods and drinks that go into their body as it will have an effect on the milk produced for the baby. Consult with your doctor on a comprehensive list of foods to avoid while breastfeeding, but here are a few to get you started:
Have a Spicy Tooth?
If hot sauce and peppers are your condiments of choice, you will likely need to reduce your intake while breastfeeding. Spicy foods can cause discomfort for some babies as well as stomach irritation.
Gotta Have That Ice Cream!
Many babies are intolerant to dairy. When you eat ice cream, cheese, or yogurt, those allergens can find their way into your breast milk and can cause vomiting and colic for baby. Dairy is definitely one of the foods to avoid while breastfeeding.
Fueled up on Caffeine
Caffeine found in coffee, soda, and tea can also enter your breast milk. This can be harmful for baby and lead to sleeplessness and crankiness, which is something no mom needs more of.
Chocolate Lover
Just like in coffee, caffeine can be found in chocolate. If you find your little one seems to be crankier and more irritated than usual, your indulgence may be to blame. This can be one of the difficult foods to avoid while breastfeeding, but it may be worth it for your little one.
Orange You Glad We Warned You?
Citrus fruits and vegetables can easily irritate baby’s GI-tract. Keep an eye out for diaper rash, spitting up, and fussiness if citrus is a part of your everyday diet.
Watching your diet is a great way to ensure your breast milk is safe for baby. Don’t forget to also keep your nursery stocked with all natural baby skin care products, like calming lotion and baby massage oil, and your baby will be happy from the inside out.
]]>When the rain won’t go away, it can be tough on toddlers who enjoy running and playing in the fresh air. It can also be tough on moms and dads who are left to keep the little ones entertained. If you are running out of ideas, try some of our favorite rainy day activities with a toddler.
Get Artsy
There is nothing quite like a homemade art project to get your little Picasso excited. Try finger painting! All you need is some paper, finger paints, and a toddler who isn’t afraid to get a little dirty. Try placing cardboard boxes or trash bags down on the floor so the mess is contained.
Get Crafty
Toddlers love to play with new toys, but that doesn’t mean you have to make a trip to the store. Look around for items that can be recycled into toys. Try making a pair of binoculars with toilet paper rolls and string, or create an animal mask with paper plates and paint.
Get Creative
Think about some of your toddler’s favorite outdoor activities and try to recreate them inside. If going on walks to discover new things is something your toddler enjoys, put together a scavenger hunt in your home. If playing on the jungle gym is their favorite thing to do, rearrange the furniture and have fun playing pretend.
There are so many ways to make the most of the day with your toddler, even if it’s raining. Give some of these activities a try and let us know how it goes! We love to hear from our customers and friends. Producing the best organic baby skin care products is just one way we hope to be a part of your family. We also want to be here as a resource for you as you take on the adventure of parenting. With our all natural baby wash and shampoo, and EWG verified baby lotion, we’ve got your little one’s skin covered, rain or shine!
]]>It’s party time! Your little one is turning one year older, and even though it may be all fun and games for the kiddos, it can be a bit of a headache for parents. Party planning for kids' birthdays can also be a fun time. If you’re looking for some fresh ideas, and a little support, we’ve got you covered with some tips for party planning for kids' birthdays:
Pick a Theme
Before you buy the invitations and order the cake, you must first decide what the theme of the party is going to be. Does your son or daughter have a favorite color, TV show, or superhero? Pick out a theme that will be easy to coordinate with all of the decorations, invites, and goody bags.
Get Your Supplies
If you are party planning for kids' birthdays, you will need to stock up on party supplies. If you are providing food and drinks, make sure to have it all ready to go, including the ice. We suggest finger foods that are easy for kids to eat. You will need plates and silverware for the food (plastic is recommended for easy clean up), and cups and napkins. All of the themed decorations will need to be purchased or made. If you are offering goody bags for the guests, make sure to buy the bags, the toys, and candy so you can stuff them ahead of time. Whether you are serving cake or cupcakes, make sure you have plenty for the guests. Most importantly, don’t forget to have trash bags on hand.
Bring the Fun
If the party is not at a venue where entertainment is provided, plan ahead. Kids will look forward to games, toys, and party activities. Be prepared to have plenty of entertainment for the kids including arts and crafts, party games, and maybe even a piñata. Think about the age group and the number of guests you expect.
After the party is over, it’s time to wind down the kids. With the help of natural baby products, like EWG baby lotion and all natural baby wash, the little ones will sleep well and so will you after a long day of partying!
]]>Celebrating the day of love is something even little ones can enjoy. Whether you are a part of a mommy group, your child is in school, or you just want to spread the love with family and friends, they are some fun Valentine's Day treats for kids for you to try with little ones.
Pancakes from the Heart
Start Valentine’s Day off right with heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast. Just prepare the pancake batter as usual, but when you pour into the frying pan, make the shape of a heart. Try making mini pancakes to add to the fun.
Valentine’s Marshmallow Pops
Have the kids place marshmallows atop lollipop sticks, dip them in liquid chocolate and then into red, white, and pink sprinkles. An easy activity that makes a delicious treat for kids of all ages.
Heart-Shaped Sandwiches
Make your kid their favorite sandwich and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter or knife to trim the edges into a sandwich that looks like a heart. A great idea for Valentine's Day treats for kids that’s not sugary!
Valentine’s Cookies
This lovely holiday isn’t complete without baking your favorite cookies with the little ones. Add red and pink sprinkles to add to theme. From chocolate chip to sugar cookies, every batch is made with love.
Fruit Kabobs
Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, have your little ones pick out their favorite type of melon. Cut out the heart shapes and stack on a skewer. Dip in chocolate or caramel for a little something extra.
While the kids treat their tummies, don’t forget to treat their skin. Using natural baby products, like EWG baby lotion and all natural baby wash, is the perfect way to say “I love you” this Valentine’s Day!
]]>One of the best ways to spend time with your little one is reading. Children learn to read and write and even speak through the use of books. Reading to your child helps stimulate their brain and introduces them to new words every day. Our top five best baby books are a great way to start building your baby’s first library.
1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Help your child follow along as this baby caterpillar finds his way to becoming a beautiful butterfly. Children enjoy poking their fingers in the holes the caterpillar leaves behind in lots of delicious snacks.
2. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
This classic is the perfect way to get baby ready for bed. Join the little rabbit as he wishes a goodnight to all of the things in his room and beyond. Definitely one of the best baby books.
3. Is Your Mama a Llama? by Deborah Guarino
Introduce baby to new animals with the help of a llama named Lloyd. The easy-to-read rhymes will make for a fun a read.
4. Corduroy by Don Freeman
You may recognize this sweet story from your childhood. A little bear searches for a lost button and finds a home when he meets a little girl named Lisa. Bright colors and cuddly bears will keep your little one entertained and engaged.
5. Guess How Much I Love You? by Sam McBratney
A story about a little bunny and his dad as they share symbols of the love they have for each other. With watercolors and sweet sentiments, this is sure to be one of the best baby books for dads and little ones.
Create a nighttime routine for baby that includes a book, plus all natural baby skin care products, like calming lotion and baby massage oil, and your little one is sure to end the day feeling loved.
]]>There once was a time when women were urged to refrain from physical activity during pregnancy. Luckily, many medical and fitness experts have spent time studying exercise during pregnancy, and it has been found that there are many benefits for women and their unborn child. However, there are a lot of pregnancy exercising myths out there to be aware of:
Myth: Abdominal Workouts can be Dangerous During Pregnancy
Strengthening your core, especially your pelvic floor, can help aid during the labor and the delivery of your child. Although if you are in your first trimester it is recommended to avoid exercises on your back, try seated breathing, contracting, and releasing the abs and pelvic tilts while standing.
Myth: Exercising can Take Nutrients Away From Your Baby
A common pregnancy exercising myth debates whether or not babies will be deprived of nutrients if moms exercise during pregnancy. Exercising will not affect the nutrients your baby needs. It is important to eat frequently to keep blood sugar levels balanced.
Myth: If You Didn’t Exercise Before Pregnancy, Now is Not a Safe Time to Start
If you were not a triathlete before pregnancy, now is not an ideal time to start training. However, low impact exercises like swimming and walking are safe to do.
Myth: If You Experience Pain or Spotting, You Should Stop Exercising During Pregnancy
If you experience pain or dizziness, you should take a break from exercising until you consult your doctor. This does not mean that you have to quit exercising for the rest of the pregnancy. Pay close attention to how your body reacts while exercising and keep your doctor informed.
Myth: Pregnant Women Should Not get Their Heart Rate up Over 130
This is one of the most debated pregnancy exercising myths. Rather than focusing on the heart rate, it’s more critical to monitor your rate of exertion. Keep an eye on how hard you are working and how it makes you feel.
Make sure to consult with your doctor about exercising during your pregnancy. As you prepare your body and home for the arrival of your baby, don’t forget to add organic baby bath products to your baby registry, like our baby shea butter and baby massage oil.
]]>More moms today are in the workforce than ever before. In fact, AmericanProgress.org says that women make up half of the current number of workers in the United States. Nearly 4 out of 10 households have a mother who’s also a working mom. Sometimes, those moms’ have a hard time juggling work life and home life. If you’re a mother who is wondering how to balance work and being a mom, we have some tips to make integration of the 2 facets of your life easier.
Say “No” to Guilt
If you’ve chosen to work, then you need to say “no” to any feelings of guilt that crop up when you get ready to go to work or are at work. And, you need to let go of the guilt when you speak about your job to friends, family members, and coworkers. Coming to terms with your decision to be in the workforce, for whatever reason you’ve chosen to work, can ease stress for you and for your family when you’re off the job.
Seek Out Good Childcare
Before you head to work after baby, make sure you have a good source of childcare lined up. Consider asking friends and family members for referrals for babysitters, nannies, or childcare centers. Inquire about any day care facilities your employer might have on the premises. When you feel comfortable with where your baby’s at while you’re working, you can fully focus on work and feel confident with your choice to be at work.
Make Mornings Streamlined
Working moms often have busy mornings including getting themselves ready for work, and getting baby prepared for daycare or the nanny. It makes morning easier when you plan out your routine the night before. Set clothes for everyone where they’re ready to slip into. Think about having healthy breakfasts and lunches already packed, and establish a system for getting everyone showered and bathed in a manner that’s streamlined and systematic. Place diaper bags and briefcases near the door, ready to pick up on the way out.
How to Balance Work and Being a Mom: It’s Going to Take Practice
In addition to these tips, you can answer the question “How to balance work and being a mom?” by creating a family calendar to keep track of events and tasks for everyone. Perhaps the most valuable tip we can give you for how to balance work and being a mom, is to realize that getting organized and staying organized takes practice. For instance, one day you might forget to pack the baby ointment for diaper rash so your nanny has all of baby’s essentials. It’s okay. There’s always tomorrow to try again, and baby will be just fine.
Baby Mantra does want to help make it easier for you to balance work and being a mom, though. So, we provide you with the best natural baby care products at affordable prices. Consider keeping a stock of shea butter baby lotion and other products at home, and then sending some with your nanny or babysitter. Through it all, remember to stay calm and enjoy life as much as you can.
]]>Many parents want to teach their children how to speak another language. Sometimes, it’s because they want the child to know how to communicate within multiple family cultures. Other times, they have the desire to help their children get an advantage in the world. If you’ve been thinking about how to teach your child a second language, there are some tips you can follow to make learning easy and fun.
Start at Infancy
Little children are at a prime time in their lives for becoming bilingual. At their young age, it’s natural for them to constantly increase their vocabularies and they’re consistently evaluating speech patterns they hear. When you start teaching a second language from birth, you make it easier for your child to identify unique sounds and mimic them. Our ability to differentiate the pronunciation of sounds, syllables, and words is the sharpest before we turn 3, and after that, we lose the ability to discern certain sounds - especially if they’re not part of our usual language pattern.
Make Learning Casual and Fun
A great method parents can use to teach their children a second language is allowing exposure to the language in a casual and fun manner. So, no language classes for kiddos. Simply speak the language around your child in a natural accent, or have a friend or family member do it constantly. If you choose languages that are consistently spoken as part of your family or neighborhood culture, it makes learning easier. Perhaps a nanny or au pair can speak the second language, which will encourage your child to mimic the sounds and words.
Try to Teach One Word at a Time
Instead of formal lessons, consider teaching your child on a daily basis that objects and people have 2 names: a name in their native language and one in the language you want to teach. For instance, if you have a cat or dog who lives with you, you can refer to the animal as a chat or chien as well as a cat or dog, if you’re trying to teach French as a second language. Your child will know that the two words mean the identical thing, and after single-word introductions you can begin to introduce phrases.
How to Teach Your Child a Second Language: Maintain Reasonable Expectations
Your child may learn many words and phrases from you instruction at home, and from exposure to friends and family members. But, it’s going to take years of language education and practice with the language to become fluent. As with other things we teach our children, patience is necessary and critical when it comes to how to teach your child a second language. Children learn at a different pace than we sometimes expect and at different paces than their peers, due to many factors. Through your language education experience, keep reasonable expectations given your unique situation.
One thing you can count on that won’t differ from circumstance to circumstance is the quality of Baby Mantra’s baby skin care products. We want to be your partner in parenting that’s consistent and reliable, so we make sure we always provide you with the best natural baby products - including or organic baby massage oil and our natural diaper rash ointment.
]]>Preparing for and delivering a baby can take a toll on a woman - emotionally and physically. So, it’s important that adequate time be spent after baby is born to adjust. There are many changes that come with a newborn, actually most of everyday life is altered, so alone time to get acquainted with all the newness is critical. As mothers ourselves, we can’t stress the importance of alone time post baby so that moms can rest, renew, contemplate life with another being, and tend to relationships that shouldn’t fall by the wayside.
Importance of Alone Time Post-Baby: Alone Time for Yourself
You may have many people wanting to give you a hand with your little one after birth, which is lovely. Take up offers for assistance as you want and need. You don’t have to accommodate every request to come “help,” but it can be nice to have some alone time to let your mind, spirit, and body recover. If you have friends or family who have offered to take care of baby for a bit, or even if it’s your partner who mentioned helping out, it can do you some good to sleep, take a long shower, meditate, or even read a book to relax.
Alone Time with Your Partner
As you take care of everything your new baby needs, remember that your partner is going through much of the changes you are. A new family member, less time with you, uncertainties around what baby needs; these are just some of the things that will be different. Some alone time as a couple can address the change in your level of togetherness that was there before baby arrived.
Alone Time with Baby
Navigating parenthood isn’t always easy. From the start, it can seem like there’s so much to know that you don’t already know, and thinking about the responsibility of being a mother can be heavy. But, with practice, you can get there. Alone time with baby, just the two of you, can help you figure out what works when it comes to feeding baby, putting baby to sleep, and comforting baby. Sometimes, it’s best to create a parenting style that’s ideal for mom and baby when you don’t have tons of other opinions weighing in on your every move. And, of course, alone time with baby is wonderful for bonding.
Whether you’re contemplating the importance of alone time post-baby for yourself, as a couple, or with your new infant, Baby Mantra all natural skin care products can be a great part of your renewal process. We offer all natural baby products that are splendid for cozy baths you can give your baby during one-on-one time, including our gentle organic baby body wash. We also make, according to the EWG, the best baby shampoo that you can even use on yourself when you take those long and relaxing baths. Baby Mantra is here to give parents the soothing skin care products they need for their babies’ precious skin, and their own.
]]>Experts agree that when you’re pregnant, you should keep moving for your health and the health of your baby. Women who are expecting experience reduced back pain, more energy, and better feelings about their bodies. They also delivery easier and recover quicker. Staying fit during pregnancy doesn’t require you to do extensive workouts, you simply need to move in ways that stretch your frame and keep it healthy. Pregnancy exercises for every trimester can be slow and gentle exercises like these:
Outer and Inner Thigh Raise
First, lay down on your left side while supporting your head with your forearm. Then, bend your left leg at approximately a 45-degree angle while keeping your right leg straight in front of you. Place your other arm gently down to keep you stable, and then life your right leg about as high as your hip. Do 5 leg lifts. Repeat on the other side, and do a total of 3 sets on each side.
Plié
Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart, using a wall or sturdy chair behind you to give you support if needed. Turn your toes and knees outward 45 degrees, and pull your bottom and belly in. Bend your knees in a fluid motion so that you lower your torso while keeping your back straight. Go as far down as you can, not further than your thighs appearing parallel with the ground, and then come back up. Repeat for 5 pliés.
Curls
Sit on the edge of a stable chair. Keep your back straight and your feet placed firmly on the floor. Hold a 5-pound weight in each of your hands and let your arms dangle toward the floor. One at a time, raise your hand with your palms facing up, bending at the elbows. Slowly release back to the starting position. Do a total of 10 curls.
Pregnancy Exercises for Every Trimester
Easy pregnancy exercises for every trimester let you move your body gently whether you’re newly pregnant or almost ready to deliver. They’re simple ways you can take care of your body. After exercising, we recommend you get out some of the natural baby products you bought from Baby Mantra and then use them on yourself. Give yourself a nice massage after showing, and use or organic baby massage oil to soothe and calm your muscles. Baby Mantra offers many natural and organic skin care products for mom and baby, including our super gently rash ointment that can be used for baby’s bottom or any skin irritations you might have pre and post-baby.
]]>Read Books
It doesn’t matter that your newborn baby probably can’t see pictures well and won’t understand a word of what your saying. Reading books with your baby is bonding time for the two of you, and it helps to establish a love of reading.
Sing Songs
Again, newborns don’t understand your words, but they can recognize your voice and they react positively to singing. Whether you have a professional singing voice, like to sing, or don’t usually sing, spend some time singing songs with your baby and you’ll have a wonderful time together.
Go on a Picnic
Pack up baby, baby’s essentials, and a nice healthy lunch for you, and then go somewhere beautiful for a picnic. Get out into the sunshine, or fresh air, or gorgeous scenery, and enjoy the abundance of the earth with your little one.
Take a Class
There are many centers and organizations that offer mommy-and-me or daddy-and-me classes. Find one with classes for moms and newborns, and then join in the fun. You’ll probably sing songs, give baby massages, and have the chance to meet other parents. You might even want to take a stroller exercise class for adults, with baby in tow of course.
Paint Something
Painting studios often allow pay-by-the-hour or pay-by-the-piece painting sessions. Why not paint a plate or pot, and incorporate your newborn’s footprint in the design. This can be a fun way to relax and to create a treasure that will bring memories later down the parenting road.
Many More Fun Things to Do with Your Baby
These ideas are simply a handful of fun things to do with your baby. You can also put on a dance show for baby (throw on some of your favorite tunes), go to a pet adoption center and say “Hi” to animals, and have a baby massage session. For baby massages, Baby Mantra sells the best natural baby care products. We have an EWG baby lotion and even a gentle and safe baby shampoo you can use for cleaning baby up pre-massage.
]]>From the moment your child is born, you probably have many hopes and dreams for their happy future. These hopes and dreams have a great chance of coming true if your little one grows up with confidence and self-esteem. As a parent, it’s part of your job to help instill these traits in your child. The following are 10 ways that you can build your child’s confidence & self-esteem:
1. Listen to Your Child
Starting at birth, listen to your child and show that you’re interested in what your little one has to stay, even if it’s just sounds at first.
2. Make Eye Contact
When your child is speaking, or when you’re talking to your child, make eye contact. This helps your child know that you value the connection the two of you are having and that you want it to be genuine.
3. Let Your Child Dream
Whether your child is talking to you about becoming the president or an NBA player, listen to these dreams and acknowledge that they may be possible given hard work and the right circumstances.
4. Allow Your Child to Struggle
Part of becoming confident is overcoming challenges, so allow your child to struggle sometimes. It takes a lot of observing and a bit of intuition to know when it’s appropriate to step in and help a child. Sometimes, stepping in to assist comes when a child asks, and other times it should be done even when a child doesn’t.
5. Let Separation Happen
Build your child’s confidence & self-esteem by letting separation happen between your little one and you. Parents often have an intense desire to hang on to their babies and children, and to offer protection at every moment in their lives. However, kids need to be allowed to fly a little free and to develop the strength to do things on their own.
6. Encourage Passions
If you see or get a sense that your child is interested in something, encourage the pursuit of that passion. It doesn’t matter the age. You can support interest in art, athleticism, music, acting, and many other ways of expression.
7. Place Value on Freedom of Expression
Confidence and self-esteem is built when children understand that they can express who they are, whether that means dressing how they like or wearing their hair how they want. Our kids are unique individuals who should be guided by us, not molded to fit some vision we have in our heads.
8. Communicate to Teach
If you want your children to develop confidence and self-esteem, communicate with them in a way that teaches them about life, not enforces an authority-subject relationship. Our goal as parents is not to demand conformity, but to instruct (as a wise sage would) while our children are with us.
9. Show Respect
Children who are offered respect by their parents grow up with confidence and self-esteem. Respect when it comes to our children means seeing that they are worthy of kind words and tone of voice, that they need our firm but gentle guidance at times, and that we are no better than they are.
10. Model Good Choices
Children who learn how to make good choices in life grow up to be confident and to have self-esteem. We, as parents, need to model ways to make good lifestyle choices which include choices related to healthy eating, keeping a positive mindset, and surrounding ourselves with a healthy environment.
Build Your Child’s Confidence & Self-Esteem Every Day, In Every Way
Confidence & self-esteem are traits that come about by consistent behaviors, practices, and choices. Parents should take care to approach the ideals of confidence & self-esteem every day, in every action taken as a family. This includes modeling healthy lifestyle choices like opting for natural hygiene products. It’s Baby Mantra’s goal to help you with this, and we do so by offering you a range of healthy baby skin care products including organic baby skin care products, EWG baby lotions, and the best natural diaper rash cream you’ll find.
]]>Whether you live in a place with wintery snow, or cold sunshine, there are winter activities with kids you can enjoy this season. The following are some ideas for spending family time together this winter:
1. Play in the Snow
Build a snowman or go sledding, or just play in the snow! If you live where there’s snow, this may be as easy as going outside. If you don’t, think about heading to a mountain area for a little snow play.
2. Watch a Parade
Depending on where you are in the world, you may have one of the famous parades nearby that you can watch in person or you might need to tune in via television. Either way, kids love watching floats, marching bands, and other parade participants, so enjoy this activity together.
3. Go Somewhere Warm
If you’re in the middle of extreme winter weather, consider traveling to somewhere warm. Maybe a desert or a beach? Get a change of scenery this winter and you may just appreciate your snow more when you come home.
4. Watch Winter Movies
There are many delightful winter and holiday-themed movies you can watch as a family. Why not have a movie marathon? If you want, lay sleeping bags out all over the floor and cuddle together as you watch.
5. View Winter and Holiday Lights
Most of the winter holidays may be over, but many people keep their holiday lights up well into January. So, go for a winter and holiday lights drive with your children.
6. Bake Some Sweet Treats
Gather the kiddies together for some winter baking and treat making. Some kid-approved sweets include PETA’s, or Pumpkin Spiced Cupcakes and Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.
7. Build a Fort
Stay warm during wintertime by building a massive fort in your living room. Pile your coziest blankets and pillows on top of each other, and then make an impressive teepee or other covering for your fort.
8. Go Ice Skating
Many cities have amazing public ice skating rinks, so give one a try with your little ones this winter. For those of you who have snow in your yard, take a shot at creating your own personal ice rink.
9. Make a Winter Brunch
Wake up, light a cozy fire, and then get your kids together to prepare a nice winter brunch for the entire family. Nava Atlas’ VegKitchen has some wonderful brunch recipes you can your children can make together.
10. Go on a Magical Mountain Vacation
Book a mini or extended vacation to a magical mountain retreat. Find a charming hotel, bed and breakfast, or cabin that’s kid-friendly, and take the little ones on a wintry, snowy adventure.
Winter Activities With Kids – There are No Limits!
These are just some of the winter activities with kids that you can enjoy this season. Let your imagination run wild and choose activities that will allow you to spend some special time together during a merry time of year. And, when you pack for any trips you’ll be taking, remember to make sure your Baby Mantra organic baby skin care products are in your suitcase. Whether you hit the sun or snow, you’ll need your EWG baby lotion, and maybe even our diaper rash cream, which parents agree is the best natural diaper rash cream there is!
]]>In order to pave a path to health for your child, and to avoid struggles with food down the road as much as possible, it’s important to teach kids about healthy eating when they’re young. There isn’t an age that’s too young to model healthy eating habits. From birth, you can and should guide your child the best food choices for excellent health. There are many ways to introduce your child to healthy foods, including these top 10 ways that are effective, creative, and fun:
1. Infuse Health into All Foods
From the moment your child starts eating food other than breast milk or formula, it’s important to infuse healthy into everything. Whether you’re making a morning cereal, sandwich for lunch, dinner dish, or yummy dessert, you can choose ingredients that will make that meal good and healthy. Opt for plants and use whole foods as much as possible. Cook with whole grains as often as you can and sweeten foods with healthy sweet ingredients like dates, unrefined coconut palm sugar, and nutrient-rich maple syrup.
2. Model Healthy Food Choices
When your child sees you eating healthy, it becomes what’s normal in your household. Don’t have separate rules for healthy eating for your child. As a family, choose healthy ingredients and prepare healthy meals. And, make healthy decisions when you go out to eat together.
3. Make Fruit Smoothies
Babies and kids love fruit smoothies, so whip up a healthy smoothie every day with fresh fruits and some nutritious nut milks. Favorite fruits in smoothies include oranges, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and peaches. Great milks for smoothie bases are organic soy milk, coconut milk, and almond milk. When purchasing fruit, remember to buy organic if your fruit of choice is listed on the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen list.
4. Juice Fruits and Vegetables
Babies and kids can get many healthy vitamins and minerals from fresh-juiced fruits and vegetables. Some great options are juices and juice blends made with oranges, apples, pears, beets, dark leafy greens like spinach, and even carrots. If you can involve your children in the juicing process, they’ll start to see that it’s fun to make healthy food.
5. Choose Health-Focused Restaurants
If you go out to eat often, or even occasionally, make sure you eat at restaurants that serve plant-based organic foods. Being healthy is a lifestyle and it’s not contained to the home, so choose restaurants that are aligned with your values and goals of healthy eating.
6. Shop Together at the Farmers Market
Take your babies and kids shopping with you at the farmers market. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds together, or in the very least, show them how you choose the freshest and healthiest foods for the family. This is a fun outing that can instill a love of healthy eating into a child.
7. Read a Book About Healthy Foods
You probably read your kids storybooks, so why not throw in a few tales about healthy eating. Some great books to teach kids about health foods include, How to Eat a Rainbow, by Ellie Bedford, V is for Vegan, by Ruby Roth, and More Blueberries! by Susan Musgrave.
8. Make Healthy Kid-Approved Foods
As much as you want to have your kids eat healthy foods, they’re still probably going to want to eat the fun comfort foods their friends are eating, such as cookies, chips, french fries, and hot dogs. This is okay, as long as you give your little ones healthy versions of these foods. You can make your own healthy sweet treats, potato chips, fries (including sweet potato fries), and veggie dogs using organic produce, healthy oils, and nutrient-rich vegan meats.
9. Use the 2-Bite Rule
It’s imperative that kids are taught to eat a variety of foods. Even though you can make healthy french fries, you certainly shouldn’t eat fries every day and exclude other foods. So, prepare a range of healthy foods for your child and require at least 2 bites of each one during a meal. This is a great way to introduce your child to healthy food while allowing enjoyment of other favorites.
10. Teach About Product Labels
As soon as your child starts making market or grocery store trips with you, take the time to teach about product labels. Examine them with your child, even before speaking age, and explain what you are looking for in terms of healthy ingredients. Then, discuss why you will not choose some foods based on the unhealthy ingredients in those foods. Every child should grown up knowing how to choose healthy foods based on product labels. Ideally, a child’s food will mostly not come from a package with a label.
Introduce Your Child to Healthy Foods Constantly and Consistently
Remember that it takes time and patience to introduce your child to healthy foods and to instill healthy food choices into a child. Just like it takes time and patience to teach a child that healthy product choices are important when it comes to what we put on our body. As you speak about health, bring safe baby shampoos and approved EWG baby lotions into the discussion. Keeping your family healthy all around is essential, and it’s our goal to help you do just that. You can always count on Baby Mantra to provide you with the best natural baby care products.
]]>Couples that travel before baby will likely want to keep traveling after baby, which means going on a road trip now takes preparation for a young and inexperienced traveler. Slipping out for a weekend getaway, or a long drive to a delightful destination somewhere, can be filled with hours questioning what to pack, and sleepless nights spent wondering if a road trip with baby is even a good idea. If you love to get away and still want to with your young one in tow, here are some tips for baby’s first road trip:
Pack As Much as You Can the Night Before
The night before your road trip, get all of baby’s gear (we know, there’s a lot of it) into the car. You won’t want to be trying to pack car seats, play pens, diaper bags, and everything else that goes with baby on the morning of your trip. Put baby to bed and then get as much as you can into your vehicle, including snack bags, extra clothes and blankets, toys, tissues, pacifiers, sippy cups, and whatever else that’s going that you won’t have to use the morning of your trip.
You Don’t Have to Put Everything in the Cab
If you’re not going to use something you’ve packed while you’re on the road, stuff it in the trunk. Free up as much space as you can in the cab of your car, because you never know when someone might have to hop in the backseat to calm baby. And, you won’t want to be climbing over piles of things. Of course, important things should be within arms reach, like cups, pacifiers, food, books, etc.
Place a Basket of Toys by Baby
Traveling on the highway with no good place to pull over is not a great scenario when baby throws and loses the only toy you’ve packed. Instead of having to try to fetch lost toys, place a basket of toys by baby so there’s always something to grab and play with. If you have a young infant, having several dangling toys on a car seat can help pass loads of time on a road trip.
Tips for Baby’s First Road Trip: Think About Yourself Too!
While on your first road trip with baby, you’ll need some of the comforts you usually bring with you, too. So, follow these tips for baby’s first road trip as they pertain to you:
Remember to pack your energy bars, instant coffee, magazines, or whatever typically gets you through long drives; some parents like to bring their au pair or nanny along with them on a road trip, or a close friend or family member. This can be great fun when parents want someone to chat with or a helping hand with their little one.
As you prep for your road trip, keep Baby Mantra products in mind. We have the best baby skin care products that you’ll want with you while traveling, including a baby rash ointment (an essential for babies with sensitive bottoms) and a safe baby shampoo.
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