Keeping Little Ones Safe And Parents Informed

Healthy Toys

2008-12-03T08:08:00.000-08:00

With the Holidays around the corner, all of us parents have toys on the brain. The other day I was watching the news and they had on the CEO of Toys R Us. He was saying that his company has not at all been affected by the recession, because even in the hardest economic times, that last thing a parent will cut back on is toys for the kiddies.
I am sure all of you are as concerned as I am after last years recalls on so.... many toys that were made in China.
I came across a great website called Healthytoys.org. HealthyToys.org includes test results for more than 1,500 toys and children’s products. This site is a first step in providing parents, grandparents, and others who care about children with the information they need to make better choices when purchasing toys and other children’s products.

Happy Shopping!!!

Keeping Your Child Safe Over The Holidays

2008-12-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

During the holidays, you should be extra vigilant to keep your children safe. There are many extra factors that put your children more at risk for injury during the holiday season, including gatherings at the homes of friends and family that may not be childproof, home decorations such as Christmas trees and lights,and menorahs and traveling.

- Be careful with high risk foods and holiday treats that can pose a choking hazard to children under age four. This includes nuts, hard candy, grapes, raw carrots, popcorn, and apples.

-When visiting the home of someone else, make sure their house is childproof, and be extra vigilant

-If at a party or hosting a party, make sure that their is an adult assigned to watch your child. The more adults around, the more prone a child is to injury, because every adult assumes that someone else is keeping a watchful eye on the child.

- If decorating your house for the holidays with a Christmas tree or lights, be mindful of your child's age. Younger children are likely to play with ornaments and lights on trees. Only place unbreakable ornaments on the lower branches and make sure the tree is stable. Keep the tree's stand full of water to prevent it from drying out so that it doesn't become a fire hazard and keep lights and extension cords out of reach.

-Make sure a menorah is completely out of the reach of children.

-Don't overload electrical outlets.

-Do not leave lights or candles on when you are not at home and keep them out of younger children's reach.

-Buy and accept as gifts, only toys that are appropriate for your child's age. If older siblings receive as gifts toys with small parts, keep them away from younger children in the house.

-If your child has food allergies, be sure to keep this in mind when visiting others and having holiday meals. Be certain that the host knows of your child's allergies and does not offer foods to your child that he is allergic to. They should also be careful to not reuse dishes or serving utensils that come in contact with the allergic foods. Many children are exposed to new foods over the holidays, and it is not known whether or not they are allergic, keep a a close eyes for signs of an allergic reaction.

-Many holiday plants such as holly, can cause illness if ingested. Keep plants out of the reach of children.

-Make sure your child's car seat is installed properly. If you are not sure if your seat is in correctly, please feel free to call us for guidance.

FDA is Allowing Trace Amounts of Melamine in Infant Formula

2008-11-29T05:08:00.000-08:00

Friday, the FDA said it's "concluded that levels of melamine alone or cyanuric acid alone, at or below 1 part per million in infant formula do not raise public health concerns." Melamine is a chemical approved for use in plastics and the liners of some food containers in the U.S. The chemical itself is not approved for use in food.
Yes, this is the same chemical that sickened more than 50,000 children in China since September.
Here is the full article.
Companies coming forward claiming their own testing shows no melamine content:

* Hain Celestial Group Inc - Earth’s Best Organic Formula
* Privately held PBM Nutritionals (store brand formulas)

Baby Bodyguards Gives Back Holiday Contest

2008-11-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

With the Holiday Season in full swing, Baby Bodyguards wants to give back to the community. We would like to give a New York City area family the gift of safety and peace of mind. If you know a family who is in need of our services, nominate them. We will be picking our winner on December 26th, 2008.
To Nominate a family, all you need to do is click on our CONTEST page, fill out the nomination form and click send

GOOD LUCK!!!!!

Ikea Blinds Recalled Due To Strangulation

2008-11-21T04:31:00.000-08:00

Karen, our friend at A Child Grows in Brooklyn posted this recall yesterday on her blog. With Ikea in Brooklyn now, I know a lot of us are trying to save money these days buy furnishing our homes there.

FYI

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: IRIS and ALVINE Roman Blinds

Units: About 670,000 (an additional 4.8 million were sold outside of the United States)

Distributor: IKEA Home Furnishings, of Conshohocken, Pa.

Hazard: Strangulations can occur when a child places his/her neck in an exposed inner cord on the backside of the roman blinds.

Incidents/Injuries: On April 4, 2008, a 1-year-old girl in Greenwich, Conn. became entangled in the inner cord of an IKEA Roman Blind and strangled. The child was in a portable playpen that was located underneath a fully lowered roman blind. She was found partially suspended with the inner cord of the blind wrapped twice around her neck.

Description: This recall involves all sizes of IRIS and ALVINE Roman Blinds in white. The blinds have a sewn-in label at the top edge of the blind with the IKEA logotype, article name (IRIS or ALVINE), 5-digit supplier number 19799 or 21369, four digit date stamp (YYWW) and the words “Made in India”. On the bottom edge of the blind there is a sewn-in orange/white safety warning label. The blinds are made from 100% cotton.

Sold at: IKEA stores nationwide from July 2005 through June 2008 for between $7 and $30.

Manufactured in: India

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Roman Blinds and return them to any IKEA store to obtain a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact IKEA toll-free at (888) 966-4532 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.ikea-usa.com

Note: CPSC reminds consumers to examine all Roman Blinds and shades in their homes. If looped pull cords are present or exposed inner cords are found on the back of blinds or shades and children are in the home or occasionally visit your home, please consider replacing them with blinds or shades that do not have exposed pull cords or inner cords.

Flu Vaccine May Have Extra Benefit for Pregnant Women

2008-11-18T16:32:00.000-08:00

As I lay in bed with the flu, I came across this interesting article on the web. I received a flu shot when I was pregnant, but I know a lot of women are not comfortable getting any type of immunization during pregnancy.

Flu shot season has arrived, and immunization is a good idea for anyone older than 6 months. According to a study published last month in the New England Journal of Medicine, unborn babies could also benefit from the flu vaccine. When moms-to-be opt for the flu shot they may get a "two-for-one benefit" — they could very well be passing the immunization's protection on to their babies.

Researchers found that women who were given the flu shot during their pregnancy reduced their infants' risk of getting the flu by more than 60 percent in the babies' first six months of life, when infants are at the greatest risk of flu complications. Plus, the shot fended off more than a third of fever-inducing respiratory illnesses in both the mothers and their babies.

Although the flu shot is recommended for pregnant women, only about 15 percent get the vaccine each year, says the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, whose researchers led the study. It involved 350 women during pregnancy and their infants 6 months after delivery.

Many moms-to-be are hesitant to get any immunization when they're expecting — and with good reason. Doctors recommend skipping most vaccines during pregnancy. But that's not the case when it comes to the flu. In fact, the flu vaccine is recommended during any stage of pregnancy. And doctors even go so far as to say that any woman who might be pregnant during flu season should get the vaccine — that's even those who are trying to conceive but aren't pregnant yet.

According to the 2008 recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the flu vaccine during pregnancy:

— Is safe. Studies show "no adverse fetal effects and no adverse effects during infancy or early childhood."

— Can curb flu-related problems for expectant moms, who are at higher risk of complications from the illness

WHAT SHOT TO GET

Pregnant women should get the flu shot made only with the inactivated virus. That means the flu nasal spray, FluMist, is out of the question since it's made with live flu virus. That's because live-virus vaccines (those containing a live organism) carry the risk that the weakened virus in the vaccine may be passed along to an unborn baby and cause illness.

The influenza vaccine is now recommended for all children 6 months and older. FluMist vaccination is approved for children as young as 2 years old.

Dr. Shahida Naseer, a pediatrician in the primary care University Pediatrics office at Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center, says her office has been giving about the same number of FluMist doses as injections this year. She expects nasal spray immunizations to far outweigh the traditional injections, once parents become more aware of FluMist.

"Kids are getting so many shots these days, I think having FluMist as an option is very welcome news for children and their parents," says Naseer, who also is an associate professor of pediatrics at St. Louis University School of Medicine. "Nasal spray is a very good option for vaccination, provided there is no chronic respiratory issue, such as asthma."

Be sure to ask your child's pediatrician about getting immunized now, to help prevent illness when flu season kicks into high gear.

Breastfeeding Support 24/7

2008-11-13T04:38:00.000-08:00

La Leche League has a 24 hour breastfeeding helpline 1-877-4-LALECHE (1-877-452-5324).
This helpline provides information, education, and support for women who want to breastfeed, and to healthcare providers and others. Callers have access to the most current breastfeeding information, receive support from a helpline volunteer who is an accredited La Leche League Leader, and receive contact information for local LLL Leaders and Groups. They have live operators or callers can choose to leave a voicemail.

I have heard so many stories about how difficult and painful the breastfeeding relationship can be in the beginning, and experienced it myself, when I was told my new born had what is called a "barracuda" style of nursing OUCH!

I remember scouring the web trying to find answers to my breastfeeding questions at 2 AM and being constantly being disappointed by the lack of information out there.

Hope this helps some of you in your time of need.

Mylicon Gas Relief Drops Recalled

2008-11-12T03:57:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Fort Washington, PA (November 7, 2008) – Johnson & Johnson • Merck Consumer Pharmaceuticals Company (JJMCP) is voluntarily recalling approximately 12,000 units of Infants' MYLICON® GAS RELIEF DYE FREE drops (simethicone-antigas) non-staining sold in 1 oz. plastic bottles that were distributed after October 5, 2008 nationwide. The company is taking this action in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although the potential for serious medical events is low, the company is implementing this recall to the consumer level as a precaution after determining that some bottles could include metal fragments that were generated during the manufacturing process. If any medical events were to occur, most are expected to be temporary and resolve without medical treatment. Parents who have given the product to their infant and are concerned should contact their health care provider immediately.

The two lots of Infants' MYLICON® GAS RELIEF DYE FREE drops non-staining 1 oz. bottles included in the recall are:

Product Code #	Lot #	Exp	Product
71683791111-1	SMF007	09/10	Infants' Mylicon® Gas Relief Dye Free Non-Staining Drops 1 oz.
71683791111-1	SMF008	09/10	Infants' Mylicon® Gas Relief Dye Free Non-Staining Drops 1 oz.

Consumers can find the lot numbers on the bottom of the box containing the product and also on the lower left side of the sticker on the product bottle.

Consumers who purchased Infants' MYLICON® GAS RELIEF DYE FREE drops non-staining included in this recall should immediately stop using the product and contact the company at 1-800-222-9435 (Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. EST) or via the internet at www.mylicon.com for instructions regarding how to dispose of the product and request a replacement or refund.

Infants' MYLICON® drops are sold over-the counter, in retail stores and pharmacies, as an anti-gas medicine to relieve the discomfort of infant gas frequently caused by air swallowing or by certain formulas or foods.

The recall does not affect any Original Infants' MYLICON® GAS RELIEF products (1/2 oz. or 1 oz. size) or Infants' MYLICON® GAS RELIEF DYE FREE drops non-staining (1/2 oz. size).

The manufacturer has instructed retailers and wholesalers to return their inventories.

Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm

2008 Safe Toy Guide Is Here!!!

2008-11-10T04:42:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Safe Mama have put together a list of their favorite safe toys for the holiday season.

When is it time to move my Toddler to a bed?

2008-11-10T04:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, a client asked a great question and it is one that comes up a lot,
When is it time to move my toddler to a bed?

If you are anything like me, I cringed at the thought. Moving my son from the crib to a bed changed life the way knew it, FOREVER!!!

I now spend my nights ushering my son back and forth to his new bed, taking my position on his floor, till he drifts off....Just to have him wake up 5 minutes later when the heat turns on or I snap our gate closed :( Granted, it has only been a week, but life as I know it will never be the same.

The usual age to move your toddler to a bed is between 18 month to 2 years of age. There are certain signs you want to look for to see when the time is right and to make the move before your child accidentally falls out of the crib while trying to climb out.

The 3 signs to look for are :

Trying to lift a leg up to the crib rail. This is the first sign you will notice if your child is trying to climb out of the crib.
Once your child reached 3 feet in height, it is time for the transition to a toddler bed.
Leaning over the side of the crib.

Moving to a toddler bed can be stressful for many children and it is a significant milestone in their development.

Some tips to ease the transition to a toddler bed include:

let him be involved in picking out the new bed and if possible, let her pick out some new bedding with her favorite characters on it and then put these on her new bed.
put the new bed in her room for a few months to help him get used to it(if this is possible, once your child can get out of his crib, it's too late)
start his bedtime routine in his new toddler bed and then, if he wants, move him to his crib when he is finally ready to go to sleep.
let him take his daytime naps in the toddler bed
take as many things from his crib and continue to use them in his bed and as part of his bedtime routine
let him sleep on the crib mattress on the floor for a few nights
move the new bed into the position in the room that her crib was in, but you would likely have to take her crib down first

If you are expecting another child, it is a good idea to begin transitioning your toddler to a bed a few months before the new baby's arrival.

It is also important to make sure your stair gate and all doors are shut and secured at night, once your child is in a bed and can get up and around by himself.

Thoughts on Candy and Halloween

2008-11-03T04:11:00.000-08:00

This year was the first year my 22 month old son went Trick or Treating. He dressed up like a skunk, which he picked out himself thinking it was a "moo-cow" and went door to door going MOO...It was pretty cute.

The morning of Halloween, it dawned on me that he was going to be getting lots of candy and I didn't have anything for him to carry it in. I ran to CVS and got him one of those plastic pumpkin totes. I think he was more excited about the pumpkin then about anything else. He was banging on it like a drum all day.

I was also worried about what to do with all the candy. My toddler has never had any candy because he is as happy with some strawberries as he is with ice cream (strange I know). At the same time I want him to grow up with healthy eating habits and candy is out there and it isn't evil in moderation, right?

I consulted two friends of mine, a dentist and a nutritionist, about what to do with all the candy. There answer was the same , but for different reasons. My friend the dentist, said to let my son have a few pieces the night of Halloween, and throw the rest away, or give it away. His rational is, it is better for kids to eat a lot of candy in the day or so, instead of eating one piece every day for several weeks. This is because all the sticky food accumulates and remains between the teeth for days on end--especially because kids don't typically floss--and this is a set up for bacterial build up and eventual cavities.

My friend the nutritionist, had the same advice. Her reasoning is that it is better to let my son enjoy some candy on Halloween, and associate Halloween with candy and not as an everyday treat because that could be setting up bad habits and with childhood obesity on the rise, that is the last thing I want to do.

One last thought. I know I am safety obsessed, so when buying candy to give out to the kids in my neighborhood, I thought of which candy is safest, which is easy to choke on and which could cause allergic reactions. I was shocked at the number of people who gave out candy containing peanuts! Just an observation. Nowadays with pediatricians having parents wait till a child is 4 to expose them to peanuts, I think it is a poor choice for Halloween candy.

Halloween Safety Tips

2008-10-29T16:28:00.001-07:00

Going trick-or-treating?

	Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
	Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
	Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
	Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.

	Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you.
	Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent skin and eye irritation.
	Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
	Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
	Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
	Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
	Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.
	Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.
	Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Expecting trick-or-treaters or party guests?

Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters, such as individual packs of raisins, trail mix, or pretzels. For party guests, offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.
Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could result in falls.
Keep candle-lit jack-o’-lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings, and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.

Follow these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for everyone!

Source:CDC

Rotavirus Vaccine Cuts Down On Illness

2008-10-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

When my son was born, the Rotavirus vaccine had just come on the market. I had never even heard of Rotavirus. For those of you who are as clueless about the virus as I was 2 years ago, here you go. Rotavirus is the most common cause of diarrhea in U.S. children and is a leading cause of death among children in developing countries. In infants and small children, the virus is serious. The symptoms of this illness include diarrhea, low grade fever, vomiting and nausea. These symptoms usually last for 3-10 days. But even if the symptoms have subsided or improved, you should consider your child contagious for 10-12 days after the onset of diarrhea.

The Associated Press, published an article yesterday about the success the vaccine has had in cutting down on emergency room visits, since it came on the market 2 years ago. The vaccine is also preventing Rotavirus in children who were not vaccinated, by cutting down on the virus in the general population.

I was concerned about my son getting the vaccine 2 years ago. I chose to get him vaccinated after extensive research and also because my doctor said she had administered the vaccine to her own infant, and I trust her judgment.

985,000 Delta Enterprise Drop Side Cribs Recalled

2008-10-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Delta Enterprise Corp., of New York, New York., is announcing the voluntary recall to replace missing safety pegs involving 985,000 drop side cribs. Failure to use or install safety pegs can cause an entrapment and suffocation risk to infants and toddlers.

When the safety pegs in the base of each leg of the crib are missing from the lower track, the crib locks can disengage and detach if lowered below the peg hole, creating a hazardous gap. This gap can lead to the entrapment and suffocation of an infant or toddler.

CPSC staff is aware of a death of an 8-month-old child who became entrapped and suffocated when the drop side of the crib detached in a reassembled crib where the safety pegs were not installed. CPSC is also aware of two entrapments and nine disengagement incidents in cribs where the safety pegs were missing.

The recall involves all Delta cribs manufactured in Taiwan or Indonesia, with the "Crib Trigger Lock with Safety Peg" drop side hardware design. These model number and country of origin can be located on the mattress support board label: 4320, 4340, 4500, 4520, 4530, 4532, 4540, 4542, 4550, 4551, 4580, 4600, 4620, 4624 (production dates 01/06 thru 11/07), 4640, 4660, 4720, 4735, 4742, 4750 (production dates 01/95 thru 12/00), 4760 4770, 4780, 4790, 4820, 4840, 4850, 4860, 4880, 4890, 4892, 4900, 4910, 4920, 4925-2, 4925-6, 4930, 4940, 4943, 4944, 4947, 4948, 4949, 4950, 4958, 4963, 4968, 4969, 4980.

The recalled cribs have date codes ranging from 1995 though December 2005 and one model (4624) was made in 2007. The model numbers are located on the top of the mattress support board.

The cribs, which were made in Taiwan and Indonesia, were sold at major retailers, including Walmart, Kmart and Target.com from January 1995 through September 2007 for about $100. These cribs have also been found to be sold secondhand. Cribs currently sold at retail are not involved.

CPSC and Delta urge parents and caregivers to immediately stop using cribs that are missing a safety peg on any leg of the crib and contact Delta to receive a free, easy-to-install repair kit. The kit will include safety pegs in a bold color and warning labels to be affixed to the mattress board. Consumers with cribs that have all safety pegs installed may continue to use the cribs; however, CPSC recommends that these consumers contact Delta for the repair kit for future assembly purposes. Call Delta toll-free at (1-800-816-5304) anytime after 5pm today or log on www.cribrecallcenter.com to order the free replacement kit.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to find a safe, alternative sleep environment for their child if their recalled crib is missing safety pegs.

CPSC would like to remind parents not to use any crib with missing, broken, or loose parts. Make sure to tighten hardware from time to time to keep the crib sturdy. When using a drop side crib parents should check to make sure the drop side or any other moving part operates smoothly. Always check all sides and corners of the crib for disengagement. Any disengagement can create a gap and entrap a child. In addition, do not try to repair any side of the crib, especially with tape, wire or rope.
Delta's Recall Hotline: (800) 816-5304
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772

Canada Officially Bans BPA

2008-10-20T05:36:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday Canada became the first nation to place Bispenol-A on their list of toxic chemicals. You can read the article here.
A lot of our clients are exclusive breast feeders and never use a bottle,but I wanted to point out that many sippy cups contain BPA as well as plastic plates, bowls etc.
Our friends at Safemama.com have put together an amazing cheat sheet, letting us know which bottles, plates, cups etc are safe and which should be passed over.

Pediatricians Double Vitamin D Recommendations

2008-10-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

By LINDSEY TANNER -CHICAGO (AP) — The nation's leading pediatricians group says children from newborns to teens should get double the usually recommended amount of vitamin D because of evidence that it may help prevent serious diseases.

To meet the new recommendation of 400 units daily, millions of children will need to take daily vitamin D supplements, the American Academy of Pediatrics said. That includes breast-fed infants — even those who get some formula, too, and many teens who drink little or no milk.
Baby formula contains vitamin D, so infants on formula only generally don't need supplements. However, the academy recommends breast-feeding for at least the first year of life and breast milk is sometimes deficient.

Most commercially available milk is fortified with vitamin D, but most children and teens don't drink enough of it — four cups daily would be needed — to meet the new requirement, said Dr. Frank Greer, the report's co-author.

The new advice is based on mounting research about potential benefits from vitamin D besides keeping bones strong, including suggestions that it might reduce risks for cancer, diabetes and heart disease. But the evidence isn't conclusive and there's no consensus on how much of the vitamin would be needed for disease prevention.

The new advice replaces a 2003 academy recommendation for 200 units daily.
That's the amount the government recommends for children and adults up to age 50; 400 units is recommended for adults aged 51 to 70 and 600 units for those aged 71 and up. Vitamin D is sold in drops for young children, capsules and tablets.

The Institute of Medicine, a government advisory group that sets dietary standards, is discussing with federal agencies whether those recommendations should be changed based on emerging research, said spokeswoman Christine Stencel.

The recommendations were prepared for release Monday at an academy conference in Boston. They are to be published in the November issue of the academy's journal, Pediatrics.
Besides milk and some other fortified foods like cereal, vitamin D is found in oily fish including tuna, mackerel and sardines.

But it's hard to get enough through diet; the best source is sunlight because the body makes vitamin D when sunshine hits the skin. While it is believed that 10 to 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen a few times weekly is sufficient for many, people with dark skin and those in northern, less sunny climates need more. Because of sunlight's link with skin cancer, "vitamin D supplements during infancy, childhood and adolescence are necessary," the academy's report says.

Recent studies have shown that many children don't get enough vitamin D, and cases of rickets, a bone disorder often associated with malnourishment in the 1800s, continue to occur.
Greer, a University of Wisconsin pediatrician, acknowledged that most studies suggesting vitamin D may play a much broader role in disease prevention have been observational, not the most rigorous kind of medical evidence. Nonetheless, many doctors consider the research compelling and many have begun to offer patients routine vitamin D testing.

Adrian Gombart, a vitamin D researcher at Oregon State University, said the new recommendations are safe and conservative but that 400 units "is probably not enough."
Gombart's lab work in human tissue has shown that vitamin D helps increase levels of a protein that kills bacteria. He said many experts believe that between 800 and 1,000 units daily would be more effective at helping fight disease.

Several members of an academy committee that helped write the guidelines have current or former ties to makers of infant formula or vitamin supplements.

Nitrates, Facts and Foods

2008-10-13T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today, a client asked a very good question. She wanted to know which foods she should avoid preparing for her baby due to nitrate levels.

Nitrates are naturally occurring nitrogen/oxygen salt compounds found in almost every vegetable that we eat and the soils they are grown in. Nitrates are also laboratory formulated and used in fertilizers. Nitrates are ingested either from vegetables or drinking water. Nitrates/nitrites have been found to be responsible for "Blue Baby Syndrome." Adults are not affected by nitrates or nitrites because their stomachs produce acids that fight the bacteria that help convert nitrates into nitrites. This conversion, and the resulting nitrite, is what allows for nitrate poisoning or “Blue Baby Syndrome.”

The name “Blue Baby Syndrome” stems from the fact that nitrites hinder proper oxygen transportation in the red blood cells. “Once in the blood, nitrite oxidizes iron in the hemoglobin of red blood cells to form methemoglobin, which lacks hemoglobin's oxygen-carrying ability.”Without proper oxygen saturation in the blood, the body’s cells become oxygen deprived and the skin takes on a blue or purple hue. This oxygen deprivation may leadto the slow asphyxiation of the person poisoned. (source: www.wholesomebabyfood.com)

Here is how to recognize "Baby Blue Syndrome, which by the way, is extremely rare, "The most obvious symptom of nitrate poisoning is a bluish color of the skin, particularly around the eyes and mouth. This is called cyanosis. A baby with these symptoms should be taken to an emergency medical facility immediately. The doctor will take a blood sample to be sure the baby is suffering from nitrate poisoning. The blood sample of an affected baby is a chocolate brown instead of a healthy red. Nitrate poisoning can be treated, and in most cases the baby makes a full recovery. http://ohioline.osu.edu/b744/b744_2.html

Foods that tend to accumulate the highest amount of nitrate include:

spinach
beets
cabbage
broccoli
carrots

If you prefer to make your own homemade baby vegetables, an alternative is to choose organic produce.

Organics do not use commercial nitrate fertilizers so, the risk of nitrate contamination/concentration is lessened, but not eliminated. The AAP suggests a very cautious waiting period, 8 months or older, to make homemade leafy vegetables that may contain nitrates. The fact is that nitrate poisoning comes from contaminated drinking/ground water before it ever comes from vegetables.

Boiling the veggies will not eliminate the nitrates. Nitrates may in fact seep into the water used for cooking. It is best to not use that water as the liquid to make your puree. For some people, they may be more comfortable feeding baby jarred carrots, beets and other vegetables that may contain nitrates until baby reaches 8 months of age. Commercial baby food is screened for nitates, but since they are naturally occuring, they can not be eliminated.

First Juice Review

2008-10-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

The other day, while browsing the aisles of Babies R Us, I came across First Juice. My son is almost 2 and has never had juice. He eats a lot of fruits and veggies and loves water, so I never saw the point in offering it to him. He spotted the cute bottle of First Juice as well, and grabbed it off the shelf. He was being particularly difficult that day, so I opened it up and let him drink it straight from the bottle, which has a sippy cup/spill-proof type top. He loved it!!!!!!!! and I felt good that he
was enjoying such a healthy juice.

First Juice brand blends organic fruits and vegetables that are lower in sugar than traditional juice offerings, resulting in a less sweet yet flavorful juice that allows children to develop more healthful taste preferences. I tasted the carrot-banana blend too, and it has a very mild sweetness, and it is delicious.

The sippy-top bottles the juice comes in are free of BPA and are reusable. After stocking up on the juice, my son is suddenly not into juice anymore, which is fine. I am now using the bottles to put water in for him.

Cough Syrup, Not For Children Under Age Four

2008-10-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

The cold and flu season is approaching rapidly and the consumption of cough medicine will increase rapidly.

Yesterday, a decision was made to change the label on cough syrup to read "not for children under the age of four". Up until yesterday the standard was that cough syrup was not for children under the age of two.

But the change does not go as far as a panel for the Food and Drug Administration, which recommended last year that children up to age 6 should not use such medicines because their has not been enough research done on their effectiveness.

A Fan May Lower the Risk of SIDS

2008-10-07T04:56:00.000-07:00

When I brought my son home from the hospital, my biggest fear was SIDS. My husband and I would check on him every hour or so if we didn't hear him peep. I knew that placing a baby on his back to sleep reduced the risk of SIDS, but a new study now shows that having a fan in a baby's room can lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by more than 70%.

For the more information on the study, check out WEBMD.

Many Booster Seats are Not Cutting It

2008-10-03T07:50:00.000-07:00

Parents, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and researchers at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, released a report this week stating that 13 booster seats are not recommended because they don't give the full benefit of improved lap belt fit. They may make children more comfortable, but they don't offer protection.

"Our data show it's possible to design a booster with good lap and shoulder belt fit," says Matt Reed, the study's lead author and research associate professor at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. "Boosters that can't do that should be redesigned."

Not-recommended boosters: Boosters the Institute doesn't recommend are the highback Compass B505, Compass B510, Cosco/Dorel Traveler, and Evenflo Big Kid Confidence; backless Safety Angel Ride Ryte; combination Cosco/Dorel Alpha Omega, Cosco/Dorel (Eddie Bauer) Summit, Cosco Highback Booster, Dorel/Safety 1st (Eddie Bauer) Prospect, Evenflo Chase Comfort Touch, Evenflo Generations, Graco CarGo Zephyr, and Safety 1st/Dorel Intera. At least 2 of these models have been discontinued, hopefully replaced by better designs. Booster makers sometimes reuse names and even model numbers for new seats, so manufacture dates and model numbers are important.

Best bets and good bets: The 10 best-bet boosters are the most likely to position not only lap belts but also shoulder portions correctly on many children in many vehicles. Best bets include 3 backless seats: Combi Kobuk, Fisher-Price Safe Voyage, and Graco TurboBooster. These may require plastic clips to correctly position shoulder belts. Six highbacks are best bets: Britax Monarch, Britax Parkway, Fisher-Price Safe Voyage, LaRoche Bros. Teddy Bear, Recaro Young Style, and Volvo booster cushion. Another best bet is the combination seat Safeguard Go when it's used as a backless booster. Combination seats convert to boosters by removing their built-in harnesses. At least 5 of the best-bet boosters have been discontinued but still are sold.

Booster seat evaluations

Not Recommended
Safety Angel Ride Ryte backless
Cosco/Dorel (Eddie Bauer) Summit
Graco CarGo Zephyr
Evenflo Big Kid Confidence
Cosco/Dorel Traveler
Compass B505
Compass B510
Evenflo Generations
Dorel/Safety 1st (Eddie Bauer) Prospect
Cosco Highback Booster
Cosco/Dorel Alpha Omega
Evenflo Chase Comfort Touch
Safety 1st/Dorel Intera

Best Bets
Graco TurboBooster backless with clip
Fisher-Price Safe Voyage backless with clip
Combi Kobuk backless with clip
Fisher-Price Safe Voyage
Britax Parkway
LaRoche Bros. Teddy Bear
Safeguard Go backless with clip
Volvo booster cushion
Recaro Young Style
Britax Monarch

Good Bets
Graco TurboBooster
Safety Angel Ride Ryte
Recaro Young Sport
Combi Kobuk
Safety 1st/Dorel Apex 65

2 Incidents in the Last 2 weeks of Televisions Falling Down on Babies

2008-09-26T07:46:00.000-07:00

I read an article 2 days ago in The New York Daily News about a 2-year-old Brooklyn girl, who was playing in the living room, when the TV toppled off the stand clipping her in the head. A week before last, I had read another article in the same paper about a 1 year old baby boy pulling on the TV wire and the TV toppling down on his head. Apparently the boy's grandfather left the boy alone for a minute to fix him a bottle.

The fact that these accidents happened is very upsetting. It could happen to any parent. We have all been in the situation where we are watching our little ones, and the phone rings, or the door bell rings and we turn our back for a second. It just takes a second!

Parents, it is very important to make sure your TV cannot be pulled down. Ways to ensure this are to mount the TV high enough so it is out of the baby's reach, if the TV is in reach, make sure it is secured to the wall with an anti-tip device. Wires pose another danger. A child can pull on the TV wire causing the TV to come toppling down. It is important to secure wires so that they are out of your child's reach.

If you need help securing your TV or wires, please feel free to call us and we can help you.

Trader Joes To Open It's Doors In The BK on Friday

2008-09-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hurray!!!!!

I have been checking out the Trader Joe's site for weeks now, and finally there is the date of September 26th listed next to the Brooklyn location. It will be on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Court Street, where the bank used to be.

My first Trader Joe's experience was a few years ago, and ever since I have dreamed of the day I would be able to do my weekly shopping there.

If you haven't had the Trader Joe experience yet, you need to go, and go soon!!!! It is just the happiest supermarket I have ever been to. All the employees are in Hawaiian shirts and have smiles on their faces. One day while at the Trader Joe's in Queens, I asked one of the employees, why it is that every time I am in a Trader Joe's, all the employees seem so happy. He told me how wonderful the employees are treated and how even part-time employees get health benefits.

The prices are amazing and there are a lot of organic and all natural options. My new favorite Trader Joe's product is the Pure Castile Soap, which only costs a little over $2. I used to use Dr Bronner's, but for about $15 less, my family switched to Trader Joe's!

FDA is Still Saying BPA is Safe as New Study Links BPA to Diabetes and Heart Disease

2008-09-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday the FDA held a hearing on BPA, the FDA defended a draft assessment it issued last month declaring that FDA-regulated products on the market that contain BPA are safe."Right now, our tentative conclusion is that it's safe, so we're not recommending any change in habits," said Laura Tarantino, head of the FDA's office of food additive safety. The agency said more research was needed.

Researchers from the Peninsula Medical School in Exeter, England, divided a representative sample of 1,455 U.S. residents ages 18 to 74 into quartiles based on BPA concentrations in their urine. The BPA data came from a 2003-04 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The researchers found that people in the group with the highest concentration of BPA had almost three times the odds of cardiovascular disease as did those in the lowest quartile, even when factors such as race, income and education levels were accounted for. That group had a 2.4 times higher risk of diabetes.

Now, I'm no scientist, but one could make the argument that obese people have higher rates of diabetes and heart disease, and would also be exposed to more BPA through more food intake (BPA lines canned goods), but either way, Baby Bodyguards is still recommending that parents start using BPA-free alternatives for their children.

FDA: Don't Use Chinese Infant Formula

2008-09-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

Agency Warns of Possible Melamine Contamination in Infant Formula Made in China
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept. 12, 2008 -- The FDA is warning parents and caregivers not to feed infant formula made in China to infants because of possible contamination with melamine, a chemical linked to tainted animal feed last year. Infant formulas made in the U.S. are safe to use.

In China, one baby has died and others have developed kidney problems linked to melamine in Chinese infant formula, according to news reports. Melamine artificially makes milk appear to have more protein; it can cause kidney diseases such as those seen in the Chinese infants, the FDA notes.

Infant formulas made in China shouldn't be on store shelves, regardless of melamine. The FDA requires all infant formula makers to register with the FDA and to meet certain standards; no Chinese companies have met those requirements.

The FDA issued the warning just in case any specialty markets serving the Asian community sell any Chinese infant formulas; the FDA is looking into that.

The following manufacturers have met the FDA's requirements for marketing infant formulas in the U.S.: Abbott Nutritionals, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Nestle USA, PBM Nutritionals, Solus Products LLC, and SHS/Nutricia of Liverpool, England. Their products are safe and are not imported from China or made from materials from China, according to the FDA.

Store Your Baby’s Food in Baby Cubes

2008-09-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

I love cooking for my son, and started as soon as I got the okay for him to eat solids. What I didn’t like was the hassle of making his food, and then having to pour it into ice cube trays, and then into zip lock storage bags. What sucked even more, was then having to transfer his food to a container if we were going to be eating outside of the house.

While at a baby shower a few weeks ago, I discovered Baby Cubes. Baby Cubes properly store and freeze home made baby purees. They come in trays of 8 cubes and have lids attached to them. They are stackable which saves space in the freezer, and are great for eating on the go.

Baby Cubes are free of BPA and phthalates are are completely non-toxic. For all of you concerned parents out there, Baby Bodyguards gives Baby Cubes two safety thumbs up

The Latest News on The BPA Controversy

2008-09-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Here’s the latest on the BPA controversy. Researchers at the Yale School of Medicine have linked the chemical to mood and brain disorders in humans. Click here, for the Washington Post article.

I’ve thrown my old bottles out and haven’t looked back since, and I hope you have too. BPA is in so many products out there, but anything we can do to lessen the exposure to our children is well worth it.

Sharing and Buying Breast Milk

2008-09-06T18:45:00.000-07:00

Breast is best, we hear it everywhere these days. The formula companies try to convince us that their concoction is just as good, but any doctor will tell you otherwise. As a breastfeeding mother who struggled with milk supply, latching issues, thrush, clogged ducts, etc, it killed me to throw away the supply of frozen milk I had saved up in the freezer.

The other day, while on an online parenting forum, which shall remain nameless, I read a very disturbing post. It was from a new mother, that was not able to breastfeed her own baby. She was posting on the forum asking for other neighborhood moms to donate their extra milk to her. Now, I remember how hormonal I was the first few weeks after my son was born, so I was not about to lecture her on the dangers of sharing breast milk. My heart really went out to her. Here was a mother that wanted the best for her child, and could not provide the best due to an illness.

I started doing a bit of research, to see what alternatives are out there for this new mom, that wouldn’t put her baby at risk for a disease such as AIDS or hepatitis. I came across the Human Milk Banking Association of North America. All their donors are pre-screened, and the milk is pasteurized. The down side to buying breast milk is the price. The average cost is $3 per ounce. Another safe option would be to have the person you want to give you breast milk screened by your doctor to make sure they are a safe donor.

Using unscreened milk from friends or from people over the internet is just too risky. Disease is not the only rick. Alcohol, illegal drugs and legal drugs can be passed through breast milk.

Recall on Simplicity Bassinet

2008-08-31T18:40:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging retailers across the country to stop the sale of dangerous bassinets made by Simplicity Inc.

If you are the owner of a Simplicity Bassinet, click here, to see if the model you own is listed in the recall.

A 6 month baby was strangled to death this month in Kansas, after being entrapped between the metal bars of the bassinet. This is the second strangulation death the CPSC has been made aware of dealing with the co-sleeper bassinet.

Organic Produce, Is it Worth the Extra Money?

2008-08-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

These days, it seems that every where we turn, we come across food that is organic. Sales of organic produce has risen 30% since 1990. Organic advocates contend that the extra cost buys them produce that has less synthetic pesticide residue and is more nutritious, better tasting and more environmentally friendly.

The difference between organic produce and conventional produce is the way it is grown, handled and processed. Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without the use of ionizing radiation, genetic engineering, sewage sludge fertilizers, and most conventional pesticides.

Be careful when choosing an item marked “natural”. Being marked “natural” has nothing to do with the way the item was grown, processed or handled and just means that there are no artificial ingredients or added colors.

When I became pregnant, I started buying organic produce because I was worried about exposure to pesticides, even though it remains unclear whether the small amounts of pesticide residue found in produce will cause health problems in people over time. I am a worrywart and I only wanted the best for my baby.

With money being an issue for most parents today and most organic produce being more expensive then conventional produce, I decided to do a bit of research to see whether it was necessary to be shelling out the extra bucks for organic.

The Environmental Working Group, a non-profit environmental organization, analyzed more than 100,000 tests that the USDA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted on pesticide residue in 46 fruits and vegetables between 1992 and 2001. From that analysis, the group came up with the “dirty dozen,” a list of the produce most contaminated with pesticides:

apples

bell peppers

celery

cherries

imported grapes

nectarines

peaches

pears

potatoes

red raspberries

spinach

strawberries

If you eat this produce frequently and are looking to avoid pesticides, you may want to switch to the organic versions of these 12 items.

I will now be saving money by buying conventional bananas.

Baby Bodyguards Review of Simply Neutral Cleaning Products

2008-08-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Simply Neutral is a unique line of cleaning products developed by Maggie, who was cleaning houses to make extra money, while she was staying home with her children. Her skin started reacting to the harsh chemicals found in commercial cleaning products and she set out on a quest to develop a “green” natural line of cleaning products. Well, she succeeded with flying colors!!!!!

Last night, I eagerly opened the package of Simply Neutral products that Maggie sent me and went to town cleaning my house. This was no easy task. I have been putting off scrubbing my bathroom for weeks, little hand prints cover every window and door in my house and the amount of residue on my dining room table had me wanting to eat sitting Indian style on the floor.

I ordered the Value Pack. It consisted of a glass cleaner, all-purpose cleaner and non-abrasive cleaner. This trio did the job and then some. My 19 month old is going through a clingy period, and is basically attached to my hip 24/7, and I felt comfortable using these products around him knowing they were free of toxins.

All Simply Neutral products are ideal for people with asthma, allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities. All of their products biodegrade rapidly making them safe for the environment. Baby Bodyguards is recommending Simply Neutral products to everyone who strives to keep a healthy clean household and planet.

Unfortunately, there are no stores carrying Simply Neutral products in the New York area yet, but don’t despair. You can purchase these amazing products online and Maggie was sweet enough to offer us all a 10% discount, just enter the promo code baby .

"Lap children" At Risk in Flight

2008-08-13T04:44:00.000-07:00

Best advice for parents: Buckle the little ones up in their own seat
By Bill McGee Special for USA TODAY

Adults traveling with babies may have no idea how dangerous it is to allow infants and toddlers to fly on commercial airline flights as "lap children."

The Federal Aviation Administration and the airlines don't require babies and children under age 2 to travel in child safety seats, primarily for cost reasons.

In August 2005, the FAA said, "Analyses showed that if forced to purchase an extra airline ticket, families might choose to drive, a statistically more dangerous way to travel." At that time, FAA administrator Marion Blakely said, "Statistics show that families are safer traveling in the sky than on the road."

But the FAA has acknowledged the inherent danger: While most parents would do anything for their child — including holding on for dear life in an airborne emergency — the simple fact is they can't always hold onto the child.

That's because commercial aircraft are designed to withstand tremendous G-forces, but humans are not. And therefore a 25-pound baby could easily weigh three or four times that amount when a parent is struggling to hold onto it during an emergency, let alone dealing with impact, smoke or fire.

In addition, a baby strapped inside a parent's seat belt can be crushed by the parent's weight during an emergency.

These laws of physics have been proven time and again, in the most heartbreaking of circumstances. In several cases, lap children have been severely injured and killed in accidents that were survivable.

In the 1989 crash landing of United Airlines Flight 232 near Sioux City, Iowa, for example, the accident report from the National Transportation Safety Board noted that of the four lap children on the plane, "the mothers of the infants in seats 11F and 22E were unable to hold onto (them)."

The NTSB added mandatory child safety seats to its "Most Wanted" list of FAA improvements in May 1999 (although it was removed in 2006). Other experts such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Association of Flight Attendants and the National Air Disaster Alliance have strongly concurred.

The best way to ensure that a baby or small child will be safe while flying is to strap him or her into a safety seat. This means that parents need to purchase a seat for every member of their traveling party, regardless of age or size.

There was a time when parents could be fairly certain of a nearby empty seat, so they could bring a safety device onboard and cabin staff would place it on an adjoining seat without purchasing a ticket. But with passenger load factors at all-time highs, the days of stretching out next to an empty middle seat are long gone.

Not all safety devices are created equal. The FAA suggests that parents make sure their restraint device is certified for use on aircraft.

For guidelines, visit faa.gov, And most airlines restrict where safety seats can be placed (exit rows are not allowed).

Some carriers such as Southwest offer discounted tickets for infants and kids. Parents should carry a copy of their child's birth certificate, since some airlines require proof of age.

Flame- Resistant Pajamas vs. Snug Fitting Pajamas

2008-08-10T05:31:00.000-07:00

Children spend most of their time in pajamas so it is important for them to be comfortable, but safety is also paramount. Recently, I received a question about flame-resistant pajamas, and my feelings about them. I don't believe they are necessary and am not a fan of them because of the chemicals used,

First, some history: The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) first adopted standards for children's sleepwear in 1971. The standards stipulated that all sleepwear exposed to a small open flame must self-extinguish. Polyester garments and cotton garments treated with chemical fire retardants were approved, but untreated cotton garments were not. Subsequent data indicated a significant decrease in sleepwear and fire related deaths and injuries among children.

The flammability standards in effect during the 1970s, nearly eliminated the use of cotton in children's sleepwear. In 1977, the fire retardant Tris, commonly used in textiles, was found to be carcinogenic and was subsequently banned from use. Public demand for healthier, more comfortable garments grew, and during the 1980s and 90s, pressure from consumers groups lead to the CPSC's relaxing the standards of the Flammable Fabrics Act to include untreated cotton garments. However, an important distinction was made with regard to fit. According to the CPSC, loose-fitting sleepwear made of cotton or cotton blends are associated with 200 burn injuries every year. When the standards changed in 1997, "snug-fitting" untreated cotton sleepwear became a legal alternative for children over 9 months old. The same amendment eliminated all restrictions for infant (0-9 months) sleepwear, since infants are less mobile, and most burn injuries result from children playing with fire.

Following the new CPSC standards all snug-fitting cotton sleepwear is labeled with a hangtag that says "For child's safety, garment should fit snugly. This garment is not flame resistant. Loose-fitting garment is more likely to catch fire." The permanent label says, "Wear snug-fitting. Not flame resistant."

The current regulations determine the safety of cotton garments according to a set of measurements for each size group. These measurements are based on testing done to determine the optimum snugness necessary to prevent the garment from being flammable when exposed to an open flame. The standards are based on studies that showed eliminating the airspace—and therefore the oxygen—between the garment and the child's skin significantly diminished a cotton garment's flammability. (CPSC used dressed mannequins for their testing.)Cotton can be treated with fire retardants, though the strict CPSC standards requiring all cotton garments to be snug-fitting and the negative perception of treated natural fibers do not create a favorable market for such innovation.

According to The Green Guide,your choices, then, from worst to best are 1) nylon or acetate treated with fire retardants, 2) "inherently" flame resistant polyester with fire retardants built into the polymer or 3) snug-fitting cotton garments. The healthiest safe choice with the lowest embodied energy and lowest ecological impact would be snug-fitting, organic cotton long johns or union suit-style pajamas with the "Wear snug-fitting. Not flame resistant" label. These common sense choices conform to the CPSCs standards, give the environment a break and provide your child with safe and comfortable sleepwear.

Since the Flammable Fabrics Act, was enacted to basically protect children who are playing with matches, or an open flame, I prefer to keep a close eye on my child, and dress him in comfy snug cotton pajamas.

Do Children Need I.D.?

2008-08-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

My son is at an age where he can say a few words. He even says his name, which is only coherent to me and his dad. He is also at an age where he hates to be strapped into a stroller or a shopping cart. The other day, while shopping at Target, my son let go of my hand and tried to run off. For a brief second, I lost sight of him in a crowd of people and I couldn't breathe, I felt as if I was having a heart attack. It was seriously just a second. The crowd cleared and there was my son, happy as can be, pulling items off a shelf.

Later that evening, while sharing the story with my husband, we started to discuss whether our son should have I.D. If he ever did get lost, or if something ever happened to me or the person he is with, he wouldn't be able to communicate. I know, it is an awful thing to think about. I cringe at the thought, but I have always been a worrywart.

I came across a really cute product called Spot Me ID, it is a line of temporary identification products that will help reunite a parent with a child if they were ever to become separated.

Spot Me ID agrees with the experts who say it is not a good idea to put your child's name on their person. They recommend putting the parents contact information on their products. By providing the authorities with a parents name and cell phone number, this will be very helpful to insure a quick reunion.

There products come in 3 varieties. They have bracelets, lanyards and temporary tattoos. They are all animated and cute.

Baby Bodyguards is happy to have come across such a great product and I will be getting a bracelet for my son.

What Every Parent Needs To Know About Crib Safety

2008-08-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

At Baby Bodyguards, one of the most common hazards we observe in the home involves the crib, so I have decided to post some guidelines about crib safety.

CHOOSING A CRIB As you look at a crib, make sure you check the following, especially if you choose a used crib that may have been built before current crib safety standards were set. When purchasing a crib, look for Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification. The slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart. Widely spaced slats can trap an infant's head. All joints and parts should fit tightly, and the wood must be smooth and free of splinters. Check for cracked and peeling paint. All surfaces should be covered with lead-free paint safe for nursery furniture. The end panels should be solid, without decorative cutouts. Cutout areas on panels can trap an infant's head. Corner posts should be flush with the end panels or else be very, very tall (such as posts on a canopy bed). Clothing and ribbons can catch on tall corner posts and strangle an infant. The lowered crib sides should be at least 9 inches above the mattress support to prevent the infant from falling out. Raised crib sides should be at least 26 inches above the mattress support in its lowest position. The drop sides should have a locking, hand-operated latch that will not release unintentionally. The mattress should be the same size as the crib so there are no gaps to trap arms, body, or legs. If you can fit 2 fingers between the mattress and the side of the crib, the crib should not be used.

USING A CRIB Read the directions to set up, use, and care for the crib. Never use a crib with loose or missing attachments or support hardware. Never leave the crib sides down when the baby is in the crib. Hanging crib toys (mobiles, crib gyms) should be out of the baby's reach. Any hanging crib toy must be removed when your baby first begins to push up on his or her hands and knees or when the baby is 5 months old, whichever occurs first. These toys can strangle a baby. If bumper pads are used, remove them when the baby begins to stand so that they can't be used as steps. The crib mattress should be lowered before the baby can sit alone. The mattress should be at its lowest point before the baby can stand. Children should be taken out of a crib by the time they are 35 inches tall. Never place a crib near cords from a hanging window blind or drapery. Children can get caught in the cords and strangle. Be sure to inspect every crib your child uses for safety - those at the grandparent's home, the baby-sitter's home, or the child care center. Hammocks and other swinging devices should not be installed onto a crib because the baby may be strangled. If parts are missing, contact the crib manufacturer for replacement hardware.

Mamalu is Mamamazing

2008-08-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning was gloomy and it looked like it was going to rain. It was not a day for the park or beach. I was looking for a place that my son could burn off some of his energy, that also had a much needed cup of coffee for me. I decided to venture to Williamsburg to try out Mamalu. I can't say enough great things about this place. Mamalu gets two thumbs up from Baby Bodyguards!!!!
When you walk in, there is a bunch of little tables and chairs set up for the little ones and a great big play space. My son loved sitting in a chair made for his size. I ordered an iced coffee, which was delicious, and was asked if my son wanted to use the "Munchground"? I said, sure, and paid the $5 fee. The play area is spectacular. It is 800 square feet and "full of toys and furniture that inspire imagination, movement and interaction"
The best part of Mamalu is that it is a place my son can play freely and I don't have to worry about him getting hurt (like in the park). All the furniture and toys in the munchground are soft and the floor is padded. There is a lounge area, where I was able to enjoy my coffee on a comfy couch and still have a full view of my son playing.
They offer food, which I have heard is really good and most of it is organic, healthy and reasonably priced. I will definitely be back soon to eat.

Baby Trend Safety Seat Recall

2008-08-01T05:34:00.000-07:00

NHTSA warns seats could fail in a crash
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a Consumer Advisory to alert owners of Baby Trend child safety seats that the seat base could fail and not protect a child during a collision.
The Baby Trend seats involved in the recall are the Magnum (model number 6439), Galaxy (model number 6481), Silverado (model number 6448), and the 6400S bases that were sold separately and manufactured between May 14, 2007, and April 1, 2008.
"Baby Trend is recalling the bases of these child safety seats because they could fail to adequately protect children in a collision. Baby Trend will replace the base free of charge," NHTSA warned on its Web site.
Owners of the affected seats should contact Baby Trend at 1-800-328-7363 to obtain a free replacement base.
"In the meantime, NHTSA is urging consumers not to use the car seat with the base," the federal safety agency cautioned.
Source: Consumer Affairs

Bicycle Safety

2008-07-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Riding a bike is great fun and exercise for children,but they need to be wearing a helmet. Each year, more than 600 people in New York are injured badly enough to need hospitalization from a bicycle accident. Of the 40% of people hospitalized, almost half die from a traumatic brain injury.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are at high risk for bicycle related injuries, and account for more than half of bicycle-related injuries seen in emergency rooms.

To prevent children from suffering traumatic brain injuries, parents should follow the New York State law that requires all children under 14 to wear an approved bicycle helmet, while riding a bike, rollerblading, or riding a non-motorized scooter or skateboard.

The helmet must fit correctly to ensure the best possible protection. When worn correctly, a bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries by 85%.

Tips to ensure a helmet fits correctly

-Look for a helmet that has the Consumer Product Safety Commision's (CPSC) sticker on it.

-Measure your child's head circumference and buy a helmet sized for that measurement.

-For infants and toddlers, buy infant and toddler-specific helmets.

-Make sure the helmet sits on the top of a child's head, not tilted back.

-Adjust the straps for a comfortable but snug fit.

-The helmet should not move side-to-side or front-to-back

-Teach children to always keep the straps buckled when riding

-Never use helmets designed for other purposes, such as snow mobiling, or motorcycling, as they may cause difficulty maintaing balance or may disrupt a child's vision, leading to a fall or accident.

Baby Bodyguards Loves The Moxie Spot!!!

2008-07-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

At Baby Bodyguards, we are always looking for fun and safe activities to do with the kiddies. Last night we enjoyed some of the most fun we have had in a long.....time.
We had read a great blog post in A Child Grows in Brooklyn about The Moxie Spot, and I knew it was a place that I had to check out with my family. On their website, they have a calender and it listed Saturday as "Free Family Disco Night" at 5:30 PM. Nowadays, 5:30PM, seems like the perfect time for a disco. I could get my dance on and be home by a reasonable time to get my family to bed. I can also easily convince our childless friends to join us for a 5:30 disco party, because The Moxie Spot serves beer and wine.
As you walk into the restaurant, there are two cute doors, one for adults and a little one for children. The fun continues inside, the first floor has a chalk board and all kinds of blocks and puzzles. There is also an area to park your stroller, which as a stroller pusher myself, made me feel at ease and welcome.
I was a bit confused about the ordering process, but figured it out after asking a few patrons a few questions. I picked up a paper menu and got on line. The items on the menu were fabulous and so... reasonably priced. Most items were healthy, organic and hormone free. I ordered the turkey burger with some sweet potato fries and was very pleased. If you order hot food, the staff behind the counter has to bring it to you. I was handed a table number and told to claim a table by putting my number on it, and the staff would find us to bring us our food.
I brought our number upstairs to claim a table on the disco floor and to my delight and surprise, I encountered a safety gate. Wow, now I really felt at ease! I loved the idea that the children could dance and run around and parents could feel comfortable knowing that there was a gate blocking the stairs.
They had hula skirts, funky masquerade glasses, noise makers, etc.... It was like a scene from the best Bar Mitzvah I had ever been to. The music was very cool. I found myself singing along to a lot of the songs, which were mostly from the 80's and 90's.
When it was time to use the bathroom, I couldn't help but notice outlet plugs, covering all the outlets. I decided to take a look around the rest of the restaurant to see what other safety features I could find. I looked at all the tables, and the corners were pretty rounded. The glasses were all plastic. They have computers in the back for the children to use and all the wires were hidden. The owners of The Moxie Spot, put so much thought and care into their restaurant. I will definitely be back, and am so happy I stumbled upon such a find.

Granite Countertops and Radiation

2008-07-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was getting my son ready to go to grandma's house, I heard on the news, that granite countertops are now considered a health threat due to the amount of radiation they give off. Not hearing the full news story, I decided to do a little research into this new finding and share the good, the bad and the ugly with you.

The Good- The Marble Institute of America told the New York Times the recent claims were “ludicrous” because although granite is known to “contain uranium and other radioactive materials like thorium and potassium, the amounts in countertops are not enough to pose a health threat.”
David J. Brenner, director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University in New York, pointed out to the Times the cancer risk from granite countertops is “on the order of one in a million.”

The Bad-But Brenner also said, “If you can choose another counter that doesn’t elevate your risk, however slightly, why wouldn’t you?” (but granite is so pretty :( )
Health physicists and radiation experts agree that most granite countertops emit radiation and radon at extremely low levels.

The Ugly-The same health physicists and radiation experts, say these emissions are insignificant compared with so-called background radiation that is constantly raining down from outer space or seeping up from the earth's crust, not to mention emanating from manmade sources like X-rays, luminous watches and smoke detectors.

The only way to know about radon levels from your granite countertops, and in your home in general, is to test for them.

If you are concerned about the radon levels in your home, feel free to contact us at Baby Bodyguards, and we will guide you through the testing process.

Review of BabyGanics

2008-07-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

At Baby Bodyguards, we are always looking for all natural, chemical free products to try. If the product meets our strict safety criteria, we recommend the product to our clients. Well, after experimenting with some cleaning products made by Healthy Home Products, called BabyGanics, we will be adding BabyGanics to our list of Baby Bodyguard Approved Products.

All BabyGanic products are non-toxic and organic, and "safe for people, pets , and the environment." Their products come in unscented and scented formulas. I happen to love the scent of lavender, so the scented is more my speed.

I have been using the BabyGanics All Purpose Cleaner, every day since I got my hands on it, and it does a wonderful job getting all the grime off my son's highchair tray and I don't have to worry about him ingesting all kinds of toxins.

I have also been using their Glass and Surface Cleaner, and I must say, it does a fantastic job of getting greasy fingerprints off my glass doors and windows, as well as all of our appliances, without leaving any residue.

BabyGanics Gets The Baby Bodyguard Seal of Approval!

Protecting Children From Dog Bites

2008-07-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

Dogs are popular pets in this country. With more than 60 million pet dogs in the United States, they are only slightly less popular than cats. Dogs and kids often get along just fine, but parents need to make sure their children know how to act around a dog to stay safe.

U.S. children suffer more than 2 million dog bites a year, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "A dog that attacks is very often the family pet," says the AVMA's Bernadette Cruz, D.V.M. "Education is the key to solving an issue that's reaching epidemic proportions." Dog owners and children can both learn to prevent bites.

If you own a dog or plan to buy one:

Choose the breed carefully. Your vet can help you pick a pup.
Socialize your dog. Start when the dog is a puppy.
Train your dog. This helps a dog learn to trust and obey you.
Have your dog neutered. Males that have not been neutered account for up to three out of four bites.
Keep your dog's shots current.

Many parents don't realize how a small child's boisterous activity or loud behavior can confuse a dog, or how a child's invasion of a dog's space might provoke the animal. If you have a small child or infant, never leave the youngster alone with a dog, Dr. Cruz says. Even when you are with your young child around a dog, keep a close eye on their interaction to avoid potential problems.

You and your child should also look for signs that a dog is aggressive, afraid or protecting his territory -- three reasons for bites. Watch for:

Growling, snarling or barking
Crouching with the head low or the tail between the legs
Fur that's standing up, erect ears, a stiff body and a high tail
Obvious injury or pain

You can teach your child how to act around a dog, whether yours or another's. Tell your child to:

Stand still, keep his hands down and avoid eye contact if a strange dog comes near.
Curl into a ball and cover her head, neck and face if knocked down.
Avoid dogs that are cornered, chained, in a car or behind a fence.
Never play rough with any dog.
Never break up a dogfight.
Ask before petting a dog he doesn't know.
Avoid surprising older dogs. If they're deaf or blind, they may bite.
Keep her face away from a dog's head.
Never hold the dog around the neck or try to hug the dog.
Avoid disturbing a dog that's sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.

If a dog bites your child, wash the wound with warm, soapy water, cover it with a clean bandage and call your doctor. If the bite is bleeding heavily, apply direct pressure and raise it above heart level until the bleeding stops. Contact the dog's vet to check its vaccination records.

Publication Source: Starting Out Healthy magazine
Author: Bramnick, Jeffrey
Online Source: American Veterinary Medical Association http://www.avma.org
Online Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/biteprevention.htm

Peru Embraces Vertical Births to Save Lives

2008-07-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

Last week I read an article "Peru Embraces Vertical Births to Save Lives", I was amazed at how different the whole birthing experience is in Peru than in the United States, and almost felt a bit cheated that my own birth experience was so clinical.
After about 6 hours of intense labor and already being strapped to the bed with Pitocin, I caved and got an epidural. I have friends who have had home births and I get the whole "childbirth is natural" thing, but I also like the idea of being in a setting that if an emergency happens, I don't have to be transported to a hospital.
Ancient pottery from the Andes depicts women sitting or standing while giving birth. Peru's health ministry has said vertical birthing positions can be healthier for women by reducing pressure on the uterus and large blood vessels that can affect the amount of oxygen going to the baby.
"Western science is unaware of the priorities and needs of women, particularly rural women, who consider childbirth a natural event and do not think changes to the traditional vertical delivery are needed," the ministry said in a small book extolling the benefits of standing during childbirth. The practice of women giving birth on their backs is done for the convenience of doctors, not women, say supporters of Andean birthing methods.
I think it is such a shame that so many birthing centers in New York are being shut down or are not covered by insurance. After reading this article, my mind is more open to different birthing methods. If I ever find myself pregnant again, I may protest being strapped to the bed and the stirrups too.

Making Healthy Food for Your Baby

2008-07-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

If a lot of you are anything like me, I know you are saying to yourself"I barely have time to shower, Why on Earth would I make my own baby food?"

I made all of my own baby food because once I gave it a try, I realized how much fun it was, how healthy it is and how much money I saved.

I used a Magic Bullet, which was a gift from my grandparents. I laughed at first because they are known for buying the "As Seen On TV" products, but this is a real winner. Unlike a blender or food processor, it isn't a pain in the butt to clean, because the cup that you blend the food in, detaches from the base and it is the only part you have to wash. Check out their site to see what I mean.

The only other 2 items needed were plastic bags and ice cube trays.

The first food I made for my son was applesauce. I was intimidated at first because the only applesauce I have ever experienced came out of a Mott's jar, but I peeled an apple, cut it into pieces and put it in a pot with just enough water to cover it, and let it boil. After about 20 minutes, I shut the stove and waited for the apple to cool a bit. I then put it in the Magic Bullet and blended it for 15 seconds. I poured the applesauce into ice cube trays, waited for the sauce to get to room temperature and put the trays in the freezer.

It was a great feeling to watch my son delight in the food I had prepared for him.

Some other combinations I made regularly were:

Bananas (you just blend with a little bit of water, no cooking necessary)

Pears (same recipe as apples, just use pears)

Potato and peas (boil both and blend together)

Chicken Soup (I would make a delicious soup with sweet potato, carrots, and chicken, and then blend it together. I didn't use salt)

Sweet Potato and Apples (boil together and blend)

Lentil Soup (I would boil red lentils and blend into a smooth consistency)

Pumpkin (I would boil and blend pumpkin with some cinnamon)

One of my favorite baby sites is Wholesomebabyfood.com , they have great recipe ideas and sample menus for babies and toddlers.

Happy Blending

Summer Shouldn't Equal Drowning

2008-07-13T15:15:00.000-07:00

Summer and pool time go hand in hand. The other night as I was getting ready for bed, I had the news on. Once again, a little child had drowned in a pool out on LI, and was clinging to life in the intensive care unit. As I shed a few tears, I grew furious. It's not fair and just unacceptable! The cost of maintaining a safe pool is nothing compared to the devastation of losing a child.
I am not claiming to be a Supermom but I accept that I'm not, and know that it only takes a minute or two for a child to get into trouble and possibly drown if a pool is nearby. My parents have a pool and before I would let me son play there, I made sure they got a 4 foot pool fence.
All pools on Long Island and throughout the state are supposed to be inspected when they are built to ensure they meet regulations, including a new state requirement for an alarm for any pool built or substantially modified after Dec. 14, 2006. The problem is, it cost too much to actually have inspectors go door to door regulating residential pools. It is up to the pool owner to follow regulations.
Baby Bodyguards also urges parents to teach their children how to swim as early as possible. Check out your local YMCA for classes.
If you are a pool owner and would like to install a pool fence but don't know where to begin, feel free to contact us at Baby Bodyguards.

Erbaorganics Has Great Products snd Supports a Great Cause

2008-07-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

I recently got a hold of some Erbaorganics Baby Body Wash and Shampoo. I put my son in the tub, lathered him up and tested out my new products. The fragrance of lavender and chamomile filled the room and the products washed off nicely, leaving my son's hair smelling lovely and his skin squeaky clean. I am now a huge fan!
Erbaorganics is eco-friendly and all their products are organic. They have a product line for babies and the mommy-to-be. Their products are completely free of parabens, pesticides, SLS's, artificial colorings and fragrances.
Part of the proceeds from their products goes to the World Wide Orphans Foundation. The WWO works with local communities in underdeveloped areas around the world to enrich the lives of orphans through diverse programs focusing on health, society and education.
Erbaorganics takes pride in being completely green, safe, and natural.

NBC's "Baby Borrowers" Is Controversial

2008-07-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Today is Wednesday and tonight millions of Americans will be flipping to NBC to watch The Baby Borrowers, a new reality show, where teenagers test their parenting skills by getting babies, toddlers, kids, and teenagers for three day blocks at a time.

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, issued a statement last week, calling for NBC to "pull" The Baby Borrowers due to health and safety concerns it has with the reality show.

"Separating babies and toddlers from their parents for extended periods of time can lead children to feel distress and anxiety," the organization wrote in the statement. "After prolonged separation, a child can feel distrust for his or her primary caregiver. Separation can damage a healthy attachment and a child's sense of safety." The AACAP added "it's concerned The Baby Borrowers promotes "baby borrowing" as an "acceptable parenting practice" that "will prompt imitation."

"Should this practice be emulated without the benefit of the observing camera, it is important to note that teenagers may be more likely than adult strangers to abuse or neglect infants and toddlers," said Anne Glowinski, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and member of AACAP's Infancy and Preschool Committee.

AACAP president Robert Hendren also claims The Baby Borrowers' "It's not TV, it's birth control" message could be better communicated than via a reality show.

The AACAP is not the only organization speaking out against The Baby Borrowers, Zero to Three -- a national advocacy group for young children -- also released a statement claiming the show "exploits very young children in the pursuit of entertainment."

Despite the criticism, NBC is apparently sticking by its show and the safety its youngest participants received during filming.

"The producers of The Baby Borrowers took all the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and welfare of the children participating in the series," NBC said in a statement obtained by The Los Angeles Times. "The environment was carefully controlled, and the children were properly care for at all times."

Personally, I have a problem with parents exploiting children for the almighty buck or TV exposure. I feel that The Baby Borrowers, as entertaining as it may be, is just as bad as parents bringing their child on The Maury Show or Jerry Springer, to discuss how morbidly obese their child is, or how promiscuous he/she is.

Young children don't have a voice, and it is up to the parent, to speak for them,to protect them, and to act in their best interest.

Baby Bodyguards would like to hear your feedback on this issue. Feel free to email me personally at Courtney@babybodyguards.com, I will post your feedback in a later post.

Bathing Your Newborn

2008-07-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Bathing a slippery newborn can be a nerve-racking experience. Your baby may not like it much, either. But stay calm. With a little practice, you'll both start to feel more comfortable at bath time. Start by learning the basics.

How often does a baby need a bath?

There's no need to give your newborn a bath every day. In fact, bathing your baby more than several times a week may dry out his or her skin. If you're quick with clean diapers and fresh burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that really need attention — the face, neck and diaper area.

Is a sponge bath good enough?

Yes. Sponge baths are usually the best option at first, at least until the area around the umbilical cord heals. Sponge baths are more convenient than tub baths, and they're much easier on your newborn.

Here's what you need:

A warm place with a flat surface. A bathroom or kitchen counter, changing table or firm bed will work. Even the floor is OK if it isn't cold.
A soft blanket, towel or changing pad. Spread it out for your baby to lie on.
A free hand. Always keep one hand on your baby. On a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
A sink or shallow plastic basin to hold the water. Run several inches of warm water into the basin or sink.
A washcloth, an extra towel, cotton balls, mild baby shampoo, wipes, a clean diaper and a change of clothes. When everything is assembled, undress your baby and wrap him or her in a separate towel.

How do you give a sponge bath?

Lay your baby on his or her back on the towel or pad you've prepared. Wet the washcloth, wring out excess water and wipe your baby's face. There's no need to use soap. Use a damp cotton ball or clean cotton cloth to wipe each eyelid, from the inside to the outside corner.

When you're ready to move on, stick with plain water unless your baby is smelly or dirty. Pay special attention to creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck and in the diaper area. Also wash between your baby's fingers and toes. To keep your baby warm, expose only the parts you're washing.

Should you wash a newborn's hair?

Yes, if it seems dirty or your baby develops cradle cap, a common condition characterized by scaly patches on the scalp.

Supporting your baby's head and shoulders with your free hand, gently massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into his or her scalp. Rinse the shampoo with a damp washcloth. If your baby has cradle cap, loosen the scales with a small, soft-bristled brush before rinsing off the shampoo.

What type of baby tub is best?

When your baby graduates to a tub, you'll have plenty of choices. Many parents choose plastic tubs specifically designed for newborns. Others opt for plain plastic basins or inflatable tubs that fit inside the bathtub. Lined with a towel or rubber mat, the kitchen or bathroom sink may be another option.

Safety is the most important consideration — not necessarily the type of tub. Gather your supplies ahead of time so you can keep one hand on the baby at all times. If you're interrupted, take your baby with you. Never leave your baby alone in the water.

How much water should I put in the tub?

You'll need only a few inches of warm water. At first, you may want to lather your baby on a towel and use the tub only for rinsing.

What about water temperature?

Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 F. Always check the temperature with your hand before bathing your baby.

Keep room temperature in mind as well. A wet baby may be easily chilled. Be sure the room is comfortably warm — about 75 F.

What's the best way to hold a baby in the tub?

A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable — and stay safe — in the tub.

Support your baby's head and torso with your arm and hand. Wrap your arm under your baby's back, grasping your baby firmly under the armpit.

When you clean your baby's back and buttocks, lean him or her forward on your arm. Continue to grasp your baby under the armpit.

To rinse your baby's hair, try a football hold under the faucet. Support your baby's back with your arm, keeping a firm hold on the head while you rinse.

What should you wash first?

Most parents start with the baby's face and move on to dirtier parts of the body. Wash inside skin folds, and rinse the genitals carefully. You may want to save the hair for last to help your baby preserve body heat.

Do you need a special type of soap?

No. In fact, plain water is fine for newborns. When needed, use a mild, unscented soap with a moisturizer. Avoid bubble bath.

Will lotion after a bath help prevent rashes?

No. Most newborns don't need lotion after a bath. In fact, greasy lotions or ointments may make a rash more likely by blocking your baby's tiny sweat glands. The best way to prevent rashes is to dry inside your baby's folds of skin after each bath.

Is it better to bathe a baby in the morning or at night?

That's up to you. Choose a time when you're not rushed or likely to be interrupted. Some parents opt for morning baths, when their babies are alert and ready to enjoy the experience. Others prefer evening baths as part of a calming bedtime ritual.

From Mayoclinic.com

"Don't Take a Vacation from Your Car Seat"

2008-07-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

It's summer time, which for a lot of folks means it's vacation time. If the gas prices are not holding you back, neither should the fact that you have children. Be brave, take them along. Traveling with your kids in tow just gotten a little easier and safer
AAA, America’s leading advocate for child passenger safety, and Hertz, the world’s largest car rental company, have joined forces to help keep America’s youngest passengers safe and secure while traveling.
The “Don’t Take a Vacation from Your Car Seat,” campaign, is a first-ever, combined effort to build awareness that parents must put their children in child safety seats and booster seats when they rent a vehicle.
"Family travelers want and need to protect their children when they ride in a rented automobile,” said Mark H. Brown, Executive Vice President of AAA.
He noted a recent AAA-Hertz survey found that 95 percent of parents who travel with a child six years of age or younger reported that their child needed to be in a child safety or booster seat. “Hertz and AAA want to make it easier for parents who may worry about the inconvenience of bringing a child safety seat while travelling.”
You can reserve a seat online at www.AAA.com/hertz and www.hertz.com.
Source :www.aaanewsroom.net

Baby Trend Car Seats Recalled

2008-06-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

Baby Trend is recalling 3,582 Latch-Loc Car Seats, Models 6400, 6439, 6448, 6481, and 6484. The dates of production will be provided at a later date. Incorrect steel was used on the latch connector locking pawl.
The latch connector locking pawl can crack allowing the seat base to detach from the vehicle's latch anchors during a severe crash . This can result in the seat failing to provide the proper protection for its occupant.
Baby Trend will notify owners and replace the base for free. Only rigid Latch-Loc model child restraints are involved in this recall. The recall is expected to begin during June 2008. Owners can contact Baby Trend Toll-Free at 1-800-328-7363.
Notes: CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO http://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Baby Bodyguards Dabbles in Dapple

2008-06-27T19:20:00.000-07:00

About a month ago I was watching NY 1 News and a story came on about two mothers, Tamar Rosenthal and Dana Rubenstein, creators of Dapple baby-friendly dishwashing products. I was taken aback. What a brilliant idea! I use natural, chemical free laundry detergent, baby wash and shampoo, why not dish soap?
At the moment Dapple has two products, a hand dish liquid and an automatic dish detergent. Both products are natural-based, free of parabens, phthalates, SLES, dyes, and artificial fragrances. Their products are biodegradable, environmentally safe and not tested on animals.
I came across Dapple in my travels this week and gave the product a whirl this evening. I couldn't remember the last time I was so excited to do the dishes. I was very pleasantly surprised with the results. My dishes and bottles came out spotless, and the bottles were odor free. I will definitely be dabbling in Dapple again soon.
You can find out more about Dapple and where to purchase it by checking out their website www.dapplebaby.com

Omega-3 May Ease Depression During Pregnancy

2008-06-27T04:29:00.000-07:00

Many women who suffer from depression either choose to take a break from their meds during pregnancy, or continue taking them with the fear that they might have a negative effect on their unborn child. When a pregnant woman needs to be treated for major depression, "the possible risks and benefits of antidepressant medication are considered to have significant impacts on both mother and baby," said, Dr. Kuan-Pin Su, of China Medical University Hospital "Many women and their health care providers prefer the use of non-medication treatments.
A new study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry suggests treatment with omega-3 fatty acid supplements may reduce depressive symptoms during pregnancy. Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fatty fish and are also present in the human body. Scientists speculate that when a woman becomes pregnant the growing fetus taps into their natural supply of these fatty acids, which may lead to depression.
However, Su warned that before omega-3 fatty acids can be considered as a primary treatment for depression in pregnant women, the results need to be replicated in larger studies. Furthermore, the researcher added, the optimal dosage and type of omega-3 "need to be determined for this specific population."
SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, April 2008

Ikea Opens in Brooklyn

2008-06-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

On June 18th, Ikea opened its doors in Red Hook, Brooklyn. I was not among the hundreds of people camped outside hoping to receive a free couch or chair, but I did make my way down there a few days later.
I am a big Ikea fan. Ikea has furnished every apartment I have had since I left my parents house. Now that I have a house and a family of my own (including a wild toddler), Ikea furniture isn't as durable as I would like, but I still find myself longing to go to the store. Maybe it's the lingonberries, which I have yet to taste, but like that they are available to me at Ikea if I choose to indulge, or the fact that I can buy a wok, some dishes, candles and a picture frame for under $20. Whatever it is, I am hooked!
While at Ikea on Sunday, I noticed that Ikea has a line of Childproofing products. Baby Bodyguards has not tested the Ikea gate, but it is on our to do list. The prices are very reasonable. We have tested the Patrull Multilock, while it is inexpensive and kept our little one out of the refridgerator, it takes two hands to close and is a bit inconvenient.
What I am thrilled about is the toys Ikea sells! I read their safety standards and wrote to them personally, and they assured me that none of their wooden toys contain any harmful lead. For more information visit http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/about_ikea/social_environmental/toy_safety.html

Sterilizing Safely

2008-06-22T05:47:00.000-07:00

I'll never forget those first few weeks of parenthood. As thrilled as I was to have my healthy beautiful boy home with me, I was in a daze. Having not slept a full night in 9+ months (my bladder was in overdrive), I could hardly function, yet I had to master breastfeeding, swaddling, baby language etc... I was a mess!
New parents all have that look, you know the look. The dark circles under the eyes, the glassy stare. We go through the motions of normalcy even though our whole life has been turned upside down over night.
When my son was a week old, I was sterilizing some pacifiers in a pot on the stove. I was a sterilization addict, so it was like the 10th time that week I was sterilizing something. My mom came over and suggested we take the baby out for a while. After an hour of walking around on 7th Avenue, I started panicking. I couldn't remember if I shut the stove! I left the baby with my mother and ran. One week postpartum and I was running as if I were being chased by a pack of wild dogs.
Sure enough, I had gotten to the house just in time, The stove was on, the water had all evaporated and the plastic was melting and burning, the smell was just awful!
Now I always warn new parents to use a tea kettle. Even dazed and confused, one can't ignore
the whistle of a tea kettle.

Guide to Buying Safe Baby Items

2008-06-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

Whether you are buying a special baby gift for the new parent in your life, or an item for your own precious bundle, there are a few guidelines to follow to ensure that what you are buying is a safe choice.
1. Construction of the Item- Make sure the product is durable. Products made of wood, molded plastic, or non-toxic materials are a safe choice. Watch out for reinforced tails on stuffed animals and make sure toys don´t have buttons, yarn, ribbon or anything that could be taken off and placed in the child´s mouth and become a choking hazard.
2. Age Appropriate- Look at the manufacturer's guidelines listed on the product and follow them.
3. Condition of the Product- New or slightly used items should be in good condition with no parts broken, or paint peeling. An item doesn't have to be used to be in poor condition.
4. Size Appropriate- Compare the size of the toy to the size of the child. Make sure the child can't be injured by the toy if the child drops it on himself.
5. Choking Hazards- At young ages, most children discover the world around them by putting everything in their mouths. Do not buy items that are smaller than the size of the child´s mouth until at least 3-years-old. If an item can fit through a paper towel roll, it is too small.
6. Magnets- In 2007, the Consumer Products Safety Commission named magnets the #1 hidden-home hazard. Avoid products with magnets. Small magnets can fall out of an item and be swallowed, causing intestinal problems if not discovered quickly.

These are just general guidelines. Always take a child's specific needs and skills into consideration.

Ways To Ensure Your Child Is Safe Online

2008-06-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

These days everywhere we go and everything we do involves the Internet. We use it to shop, bank, read the news, do research. You are all using it right now as you read my blog.

The scary thing about the Internet is that our children know more about it then we do. They may be looking at inappropriate material, or talking to online predators and we wouldn't even know it.

When I was a child, my parents used to ask me a series of questions before I left the house to go out with friends. They wanted to know, Who I was going out with?, How I was getting to my destination?, What time I would be returning?, Who was going to be supervising us?, etc etc etc..... Many of the parents I speak to these days have never even looked at their child's buddy list, My Space page, Friendster account or Facebook page. As parents, we need to sit down with our children and make sure that they know everyone on their buddy list personally (not that they met them online) and that they have their privacy settings set correctly. A lot of children have famous people as their buddies on these accounts. How do we know that the person pretending to be one of these famous people is not an online predator? If your child can't tell you the first and last name of every buddy on their list, then that buddy needs to come off the list.

I also urge parents to make their own My Space or Facebook page, and make your child one of your buddies, so you can keep an eye on what they are doing online.

I recently discovered that my friend's 11 year old daughter had a computer in her bedroom. I asked my friend, if she would allow a total stranger to come into her house and go into her daughter's bedroom, close the door, and talk about whatever they wanted? Of course not, she said. The computer needs to be in a high traffic area of the home, so we can keep an eye on what our children are doing and who they are talking to.

A great website to check out is http://www.netsmartz.org/ ,it has lots of information on how to keep your child safe online and it has games for the kiddies.

Happy Surfing!

Is Your Babysitter A Certified Babysitter?

2008-06-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had my husband's cousins over for dinner. They came with their 5 children ranging in age from 17 to 6. My toddler was in heaven from all the attention he was getting from the kids, and I was in heaven because I was finally able to eat my dinner with two hands and before it was ice cold.

The kids were fantastic with my son. They took turns reading books to him. The 17 year old was playing him music from his cell phone, which he was fascinated with. I had never seen a group of children handle a baby so well.

They offered to babysit for my son whenever we needed and told me they were Certified Babysitters by the American Red Cross. I never knew there was such a thing!

The American Red Cross offers a Babysitters class for kids 11-15 who want to be responsible babysitters. They learn how to respond to emergencies and illnesses, make decisions under pressure, recognize safety and hygiene issues, communicate with parents, manage young children and confidently care for infants.

I am lucky enough to have my mother living very close by, and she cares for my son whenever we need a night out, but i take comfort in knowing that there is such a thing as a Certified Babysitter.
For more information, visit http://www.nyredcross.org/

FYI Window Guards are the Law in NYC

2008-06-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

In NYC, every year a number of children fall out of windows because of faulty window guards or no window guards period!
This is unacceptable, avoidable and ILLEGAL!
Only window guards approved be the Health Department can be installed. They must be made of strong metal. And they must --by--law be put in right and put in tight, or they won't work.

Here is some info from the NYC Department of Health Website (www.nyc.gov/html/doh).

Window guards must by law be installed on your windows...

...if you live in a building that has three or more apartments and a child under age 11 lives in your apartment. Even if you live on the first floor, you must have window guards if a child under age 11 lives with you. Every window in the apartment must have a window guard except windows leading to fire escapes. In buildings with fire escapes , window guard must be left off one window in each ground-floor apartment so that the window can be used as and emergency exit. All public hallway windows must have window guards, too.

Even if you do not have a child under age 11 living with you, you still can have window guards if you want them. You might want them because children visit you, or you babysit, or and older person needs protection. Or may be you just feel safer with window guards. You don't have to give a reason. If you want them, they have to be installed. It's that simple. But, remember, if a child under age 11 lives with you, there is no choice-- they must be installed. It's the law!

Your landlord or building super-- not you-- must install window guards in your apartment's windows. Your landlord or super must also fix any window guards that need repairs, and install window guards in all hall windows if a child under age 11 lives in the building.

If you want or need window guards or if they are loose or need fixing, call your landlord or management company Call the Health Department's Window Falls Prevention Program at (212) 676-2162 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Baby Bodyguard's Sun Protection Guide

2008-06-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

A few helpful terms to be familiar with:

SPF: Sun Protection Factor. A measure of how effectively the sunscreen blocks the sun's UVB rays. It's calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin.
UVB: Short-wave part of the spectrum of sunlight; more potent than UVA in causing sunburn, thought to be the main cause of basal and squamous cell skin cancers as well as a contributor to melanomas.
UVA: Long-wave solar rays. Less likely than UVB to cause sunburn, but penetrates the skin more deeply; considered chief cause of wrinkling and "photoaging." Apparently increases UVB's cancer-causing effects, but may be main culprit of melanomas. Not blocked by all sunscreens, so check the label!!
Sunscreen: absorbs UV rays.
Sunblock: Physically deflects UV rays.
"Broad-spectrum Protection": This indicates that a product protects against UVA and UVB, but doesn't guarantee coverage against all UVA wavelengths. Sunscreens containing avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide should be effective against entire UVA spectrum.

It is best to keep babies out of the sun, but if this isn't possible, Here is a list of Baby Bodyguard approved products. All sunscreens listed here contain no parabens, phthalates, sodium laurel/laureth sulfates, propylene glycol, PEGS, dioxanes and oxybenzones.
List:
Burts Bees Chemical Free
California baby SPF 30 Everyday and Bug Blends
TruKid Sunny Days Everyday Mineral Sunscreen
Weleda Childrens SPF 18
Jason's Sunbrella's Minerals

It is very important to check those expiration dates. Many sunscreen and sunblock ingredients do not have an incredibly long shelf life, so throw away the old stuff and replace it!

H2O, A BIG NO NO

2008-06-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to drink 8 glasses of water a day since as long as I can remember. It's the perfect beverage. It fills you up, keeps your skin beautiful, and most importantly keeps your body functioning efficiently.
When I was pregnant, I remember reading that water is not healthy for infants, especially infants under 6 months of age. I just assumed it was because an infant might fill up on the water and not want nutrient rich breast milk or formula, but my assumption was incorrect.
According to physicians at Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore, consuming too much water can put babies at risk of a potentially life-threatening condition known as water intoxication.
Because babies' kidneys aren't yet mature, giving them too much water causes their bodies to release sodium along with excess water, Dr. Jennifer Anders, a pediatric emergency physician at the center said. Losing sodium can affect brain activity, so early symptoms of water intoxication can include irritability, drowsiness and other mental changes. Other symptoms include low body temperature (generally 97 degrees or less), puffiness or swelling in the face, and seizures.
Dr. Anders, said early symptoms are subtle, so seizures may be the first symptom a parent notices. But if a child gets prompt medical attention, the seizures will probably not have lasting consequences. Water as a beverage should be completely off limits to babies six months old and younger, Parents should also avoid using over-diluted formula, or pediatric drinks containing electrolytes, she added.
Dr. Anders said it may be appropriate in some cases to give older infants a small amount of water; for example to help with constipation or in very hot weather, but parents should always check with their pediatrician before doing so, and should only give the baby an ounce or two of water at a time.
If you think your child may have water intoxication, contact a medical professional immediately.

Who Are The People In Your Neighborhood?

2008-05-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

I love my block and my neighbors, but when it comes to the safety of my son, I don't trust anyone with him except my parents, myself and my husband. That being said, he won't always be in our little bubble of protection. One day he will be old enough to want to play ball in front of the house, or walk home the 2 blocks from school with some friends, which is why I checked out the people in my neighborhood.
I came across a great website http://www.familywatchdog.us/, which allows you to put in your address and see a map or list of where sexual offenders live and work. The site also has pictures of the registered offenders. Only Level 2 and 3 offenders are listed.
A Level 1 offender means that the court has determined that there is a low risk to commit another sex crime. A Level 2 offender means that the court has determined that there is a moderate risk to commit another sex crime. A Level 3 offender means that the court has determined that there is a high risk to commit another sex crime.
What I couldn't believe, is that a sex offender can live next to a school. The Sex Offender Registration Act does not limit where a sex offender can live.
Pretty Scary Stuff!

FDA Warns Nursing Moms About Nipple Cream

2008-05-25T07:38:00.000-07:00

On Friday the FDA warned women not to use or purchase Mommy's Bliss Nipple Cream, marketed by MOM Enterprises Inc. of San Rafael, Calif.

The cream, marketed to nursing moms to help soothe dry or cracked nipples, contains ingredients that according to the FDA may cause respiratory distress, vomiting and diarrhea in infants.

The potentially harmful ingredients in the cream are chlorphenesin and phenoxyethanol.

"FDA is particularly concerned that nursing infants are being unwittingly exposed by their mothers to this product with dangerous side effects," said Janet Woodcock, director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "Additionally, these two ingredients may interact with one another to further compound and increase the risk of respiratory depression in nursing infants."

The company has stopped selling the cream. The FDA said consumers should stop using the cream and consult a doctor if they experience problems or believe that their infant may have experienced problems due to the product.

Mothers whose children may have suffered adverse effects because of this product should contact the FDA's MedWatch at 800-332-1088.

We Know The Breast Is Best...But Don't Beat Yourself Up!

2008-05-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

About a week ago my friend had a baby girl and was surprised by the fact that breastfeeding didn't come as naturally as she expected. My conversation with her brought back memories about the difficulty I had nursing my son when he was first born and the lack of information I was able to find on the web dealing with this issue.
The lack of information was astounding. Everything I read talked about how breastfeeding is "relaxing" or "may be a little uncomfortable in the beginning". I would look down at my cracked and bleeding nipples and want to just throw in the towel because I assumed that something must be wrong with me and that I was just not cut out for this "natural" process.
I knew I wanted my son to have breast milk because he was born in December and I wanted him to have the best immune system possible, so I took out my Pump In Style, and began filling the fridge with breast milk. I would also put him to my breast, but if the pain got too bad, I knew I had nourishment for him a bottle away.
It all worked out for us. Eventually my nipples toughened up or my sons mouth got bigger, allowing him to latch on better. The bottom line is he is now almost 17 months old and we still cuddle in the morning and before bed to nurse.
I worried constantly. Would my son suffer from nipple confusion? Did I have too much milk or too little? Why was his poop green this morning? Would my boobs ever return to their perfect 34C size?
TIME GOES BY TOO FAST TO WORRY ABOUT THESE THINGS, OUR LITTLE ONES GROW BIG FAST!!!!
Hopefully, a new mom out there will read this blog post and either won't throw in the towel too soon or will not feel bad about pumping or just plain formula. I was bottle fed and I LOVE my mom we are as close as can be :) and btw...I'm pretty darn healthy too

It's Time To Trash Our Old Bottles...

2008-05-21T06:44:00.001-07:00

Many of you have heard the term BPA in the news recently. Baby Bodyguards has done its homework and would like to give a crash course in BPA and identifying products containing BPA and its dangers.
Bisphenol A, also called BPA can be found in hard plastics, such as baby bottles and sippy cups as well as the linings of most food cans. BPA has been used for more than 60 years as the essential ingredient in clear polycarbonate plastic.
Bisphenol A is a hormone-mimicking chemical used in polycarbonate plastics (PC or identified as #7 recycling code) and resins commonly used for items such as shatterproof baby bottles. Bisphenol has estrogenic properties which, in animal tests has shown to cause a bevy of health problems such as an increase in prostate and breast cancer, uro-genital abnormalities in male babies, a decline in semen quality in men, early onset of puberty in girls, metabolic disorders including insulin-resistant (Type 2) diabetes and obesity and neurobehavioral problems such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Research is showing that when plastic containers, mostly those used to hold liquids and foods, are leeching Bisphenol into the foods and liquids they are holding. Heating food and liquids with these plastics is shown to increase the leeching of this contaminate.
When buying bottles and sippy cups for our children we need to look at the recycling code located on the bottom of the item. If there is a #7 or a #3, the plastic may contain BPA.
There are quite a number of BPA-Free baby products on the market now. In fact, soon the search will be much easier because Babies R Us, has said it will eliminate baby bottles and other-feeding products containing BPA by the end of the year.
I recently trashed my son's old bottles and replaced them with the Evenflo Classic Tinted Polypropylene bottles and they work great.
I know our children are going to be exposed to certain toxins that are out of our control, but it is good to control the things we are aware of.