Articles by Michelle O’Connor
All articles ©copyright Michelle O'Conner and may not be used without her permission
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Traveling With Your Baby?  Create A Home Away From Home!

The key to traveling with your baby is comfort, routine and familiarity.  Help baby keep calm and soothed while traveling by creating a home away from home for them.

  Baby Blankets and Snuggly Baby Toys
  To help your baby feel safe and secure, bring along comforting items baby is familiar with.  Their favorite stuffed
  animal, special burp cloth or blanket can really help baby feel more at ease about being in a new and unfamiliar
  place. While keeping track of yet another item may seem like an extra hassle for you, your child will be happier,
  and thus more pleasant to travel with, clutching something soft and familiar. Keep a replacement blanket or
  snuggly toy on hand in case the original gets lost.

Bring Baby’s Favorite Foods and Seats
Small children are notoriously picky eaters, and it’s hard enough finding foods they like at home, let alone while you’re traveling. You may be looking forward to sampling the local cuisine at your destination, but your child may be less excited about conch fritters and sautéed snails. If you’re going out to a restaurant, bring a supply of your child’s favorite foods to keep them satisfied and entertained while you enjoy your own meal.   

Bring along your baby’s bumbo baby seat to keep them snug and cozy while you feed them. (The Bumbo Baby Seat is a revolutionary infant chair that is uniquely designed according to the baby’s posture. The Bumbo enables babies to sit upright all by themselves! Bumbo Baby Seats are suitable for babies from as young as six weeks, or as soon as they can support their own heads unaided, to an age of approximately fourteen months.)

Start Your Day Early, End Your Day Early
Traveling with a baby is not about sleeping in or staying out late. Young children are at their best earlier in the day, so plan to travel, sightsee, or explore in the morning. Afternoons and evenings are a good time for playing outdoors or relaxing back at your hotel. Respecting your baby’s inner clock will make him less likely to throw a tantrum in the car, the street, or a crowded museum.

Bring Baby’s Familiar Bed and Bedding

There are a number of portable baby cribs available on the market today.  This is the most comforting, and likely the safest option for your baby while traveling.  Many hotels offer baby cribs, however, many hotels still have older cribs that are not up to code with the most recent safety standards.  Also, bring your own baby crib bedding.  If you rely on your hotel for bedding, you may receive large sheets, which may be a hazard to your baby.  If you can, bring a bed and bedding baby is used to.  A familiar baby sleep sack may also help baby sleep well and will help keep them safe.

Keep Close To Your “Home Away From Home”
Baby’s mood may be more unpredictable than usual when you’re traveling, so it makes sense to establish a home base you can return to quickly and easily. Short jaunts away from your accommodations are less likely to tax your child’s patience. And if the weather turns foul, someone gets sick, or your baby just wants to nap, you can quickly head back to the room.

Get A Routine – Then Stick With It!
Your baby has gotten used to their “routine” at home.  Be sure that, when you travel, you also establish and stick with a “travel routine”.  Try to keep baby’s eating and sleeping routine during travel as close to their regular home routine as possible.  This will make baby more tolerant of other “non-home-routine” activities that will occur while traveling.  Eating meals and taking naps at the same time each day may be all the routine your baby needs to feel comfortable in their new environment.

Children get jet lag, though not quite the same way as adults do.  Changing time zones can complicate the adjustment process. Be sure to have your entire family (you included) rest up before travel that includes a significant time change.  Well-rested children and parents cope better than tired ones with time changes. To minimize the effects of jet lag, plan to arrive at your destination in the evening and stick to your usual end-of-day routine: Give your baby a bath, read a book, and put baby to sleep at the usual bedtime in the new time zone. For example, if you are in London and it’s 7 p.m. there, put baby down to sleep even if it’s eight hours ahead of their normal bedtime. It will take a few days to adjust.

You can expect your baby’s adjusting to travel to take several days.  So, be patient and stick to a familiar routine, feed baby familiar foods and give baby familiar toys.  Be sure you stay nearby – you are the most familiar thing to your baby.

Article by Michelle O’Connor, Ó Michelle O’Connor 2005, all rights reserved.

Designer Diaper Bags

How To Pick The Perfect Diaper Bag

Whether you're shopping for a trendy diaper bag that makes a fashion statement, or an inexpensive, basic diaper bag that just holds a few key baby items, you've got your work cut out for you. Diaper bags are available today in seemingly endless styles, colors, shapes and price ranges.

From the big pastel bags of the past, diaper bags have evolved, giving you a wider range of styles than ever before. Choose a chic, black pouch, a rugged looking backpack that your husband won't mind wearing, or a sleek bag that's going to replace your favorite purse. Look for a variety of compartments and pockets to hold bottles, your keys, and diapers and wipes. You can find a diaper bag that organizes everything you need and reflects your personal style.

Use the following diaper bag buying tips to help you narrow down the list of diaper bags that might meet your needs.

Diaper Bag Features
Shoulder straps are an important feature to consider when evaluating diaper bags. Wide, non-slip shoulder straps will stay put as you walk. Also make sure that the size of the bag will be comfortable for you as you walk. If you are bottle-feeding, look for insulated bottle pockets. If you plan to haul your own items a well as baby's, look for a baby diaper bag that features key clips, cell phone pockets, a diaper section and a compartment to hold wipes. Removable changing pads are handy, but be sure they can be cleaned easily. If your hubby will also be toting the bag around, you might opt for a more "rugged" looking backpack diaper bag. It is helpful to keep in mind the items you will need when changing your baby on the go.  With many of today’s bags you won't have to worry about finding a changing station because they are included in the bag's design; many come with extra-large changing pads giving you the room you need to get the job done right.

Diaper Bag Prices
If you have a set baby budget, diaper bags are a great area to save money. Basic diaper bags are available for $30-$40, though color and style options may be limited in this price range. If you have $50-$100 to spend, there are many roomy, stylish diaper bags on the market. Diaper bags are also available in the latest styles and with designer labels if you want to shell out $100 or more. Let your diaper bag budget, as well as the features you want in a diaper bag, guide you as you shop.

Diaper Bag Styles
Backpack diaper bags, the Fleurville mothership diaper bags and the classic tote style diaper bags are just a few of the options available today. Consider the amount of time you'll be carrying the diaper bag each day, and whether you will need both hands free for other tasks as you're carrying the diaper bag. Backpack diaper bags are good for long distances or hands-free carrying, husbands may also be partial to this style. Tote bags and other classic styles are easy for short trips and are attractive enough to carry to the office or to meetings.

Diaper Bag Materials
Before you fall in love with a baby diaper bag in a hard-to-care-for fabric, consider the abuse that diaper bags must take in a few short years. Look for a fabric that is easily spot-cleaned or can be wiped clean. Vinyl or faux leather diaper bags can be fashionable and easy to wipe down, or, if you prefer the look of a fabric diaper bags, look for a bag that has a clear plastic protective layer over the fabric to keep your diaper bag looking great through diaper changes and other baby messes. Also check to see if your diaper bag is washable.  A Baby Bjorn Diaper Bag will offer you versatility and an easy-to-clean solution.

Diaper Bag Size
Remember, the more you stuff into your diaper bag, the heavier it will be to tote around. While you may be tempted to buy the largest one you can find, so that you can fit an entire "portable nursery" inside, stop to think about your shoulders and the weight they will carry. The more non-essentials you carry, the more strain on your back and shoulders. If you tend to over-pack or let things accumulate in your bag, consider buying a diaper bag just big enough for diaper change basics, so you won't end up with a bulging diaper bag and a sore back.  Note: Kate Spade Diaper Bags come in a wide variety of sizes.

Diaper Bag Closures
When you are on the run or in a busy locale, what will be the easiest way to get into and close up your baby's diaper bag? Zipper closures, fold-over tops and snap or tie closures and more are available today. Think about when and where you'll be using the diaper bag, and whether you will often need to reach inside the bag quickly. If so, a snap closure may be more convenient. If security issues or over-turned diaper bags are likely, a zipper top would be more appropriate. Be sure you can work the diaper bag closure easily, and remember that you may be opening or closing it while wrangling a messy baby.

How Do I Find The Right Diaper Bag For Me?
Have you been having trouble finding a baby bag that is 'just right’? You don't want the same old run of the mill design and look? You have come to the right place. You will see that these boutique quality baby bags are well thought out with the Mothers needs met. We incorporate quality fabrics, simple shapes and trendy looks to achieve the perfect bag. See our backpack diaper bags.

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO POTTY TRAIN

Are you in a hurry to potty train?  Or do you enjoy the diaper changing stages of your child’s life?  When making this decision one needs to consider their child’s development, are they physically ready? What about the parents’ demanding life style? 

Be Sure Your Child Is Ready
Don't begin potty training until your child shows signs that he/she is ready. Every child is different.  Some children develop earlier than others and some just need a little more time.  Remember needing more time does not mean they are slow; children develop at different times. Potty training can begin anywhere between 18 months to 3 years old.

Your Child’s Age Will Affect Their Bladder Control
If you’re the parent that wants your child to be trained between 18 months and 2 years old here is a few suggestions:  Try not to push them.  You don’t want them to find potty raining insufferable.  Try making it enjoyable maybe using a treasure box as reward.  Also keep in mind that children do not have bladder control until at least 13 months of age so consider that some bladders may develop later than others.  Another thing to consider is traveling with a toddler who is trained.  The earlier they are trained the harder it is for them to hold it.  You might not make it in time to pull over when in the car or even when shopping trying to get to the restroom in time can be the difference between wet pants and dry pants.  Children who are potty trained later usually have better control of their bladder.

Potty Training When They Are Older – Important Reminders
If you’re the parent that enjoys the diaper stages here are a few suggestions you might want to consider:  Do you have to go back to work before they are 3?  If so you need to check into day cares and see what their requirements are for children who are or are not potty trained.  Most preschools will charge more for children who are not potty trained to avoid this charge try having them trained by 2 ½ years of age. You might also want to consider the cost of diapers; if they are not trained until 3 ½ or 4 that is a couple of year’s worth of diapers which can be costly.  Bigger diaper bags will be a necessity.  (We recommend Bumble Diaper Bags, for quality and size).

Wait Until Your Child Is Ready – Avoid “Fear of the Toilet”
The theory is to not try to potty train until 2, 2 ½ this way the children are not terrified of the toilet, have a better concept and have better control of their bladders.  Again try to wait until your child is ready or start slowly not waiting too long, but not with insensitive force.  There is also another new wave out there called infant potty training.  I don’t really suggest this because children/babies don’t have control of their bladder until 13 months of age.  They also believe need time to be babies and parents need that time/stage with their children. Start at a time when you can spend a lot of time with your child, when your child seems complacent, happy and there are no major distractions or traumatic events in his/her life (new sibling, divorce, moving, new caretaker etc.).  Trying different potty positions until your child is comfortable and is convenient for the both of you this will make it more pleasurable.

All this to say, keep in mind that you want to enjoy the youth of your child.  You want it to be a good memorable time.  Remember you know your child better than anyone else and you know what will work best for the both of you.
   

Article   Written By:  Rachel Weimer    
Bumbo  Baby Seats and Baby Bjorn Diaper Bags

Baby Names and Their Meanings

Article By Michelle O’Connor, Cool Baby Names

            You might not realize it, but baby names often carry a great deal of meaning.  While some names are simply a collection of interesting sounds and syllables, others are intriguing metaphors.  Therefore, when naming your baby, you might not only want to consider a name that sounds good to you, but also one that has a meaning that is special to you.

Dreamy Names 

            There are some first names that are particularly dreamy, when it comes to their meaning.  For instance, Aine means pleasure or delight, while Alanna means attractive and peaceful.  Therefore, if you have a child that is especially pleasant, Aine or Alanna might be an appropriate name.  If your baby is the embodiment of your dreams, consider the name Ashlyn.  The baby girl name meaning for Ashlyn is “vision”.

 
Naming with the Eyes 

            Other names refer to an individual’s looks.  For instance, if you have a thin boy, consider naming him Blaine.  If he’s freckled, Breck is the best choice (the baby boy name meaning of Breck being “freckled”).  If your daughter is dark-skinned or dark-eyed, Ciara, which means “black, ” would be appropriate.  Similarly, if your boy has dark features, consider naming him Darci. 

The Meaning Behind Biblical Baby Names 

            What’s particularly interesting about Bible baby names is their biblical baby name meanings, typically, multiple levels of meaning.  For instance, not only does a name stand for a specific historical figure in the Bible—the word itself may also have special meaning.  For instance, Abraham is Hebrew for “father of a multitude.”   Abel is the Hebrew word for “breath,” while Abram carries the meaning of “exalted father.”  Adam is Hebrew for “created by God”; Barnabas means “son of prophesy.”  Daniel means “my judge is the Lord”; the biblical baby girl name Elizabeth means “God’s oath.” 

Names with Identity

            If you’re looking for a name with a real identity, there are several options from which to choose.  For instance, Colleen is a girl, while Dacey  is a Southerner.  Darby is free, while Deirdre is a wanderer.  Devan or Devin is a poet, while Alexander is a defender of mankind.   Arsenio is masculine; Adrian, rich; Andrew, manly.  Basil is royal, while Carsten is anointed.   If you think your baby will be fond of St. Nicholas, but you don’t particularly like that name, try Colin, which means the same thing.   Darius is wealthy, Cosmo, harmonious; and Demetrius is a lover of the earth.  Consider all of these when selecting a new baby name.

            You might be quite surprised at the meanings of some names.  Camellia, for instance, means evergreen tree.  Caprice is fanciful, while Carina means dear little one.  Concetta is pure; Anna is gracious; Donna is a lady.   Other names are derivatives of still other names.  For instance, Chiara, Clarice, and Clarissa are all forms of Clara.

Baby Name Finders

            A Baby Name Finder may be one of the quickest ways you can locate a possible name for your child.  For instance, the iVillage Baby Name Finder on the Internet has been used by millions of people around the world.  The name finder contains a collection of more than 10,000 names, so chances are good that you will find a name that is appealing to you.  The name finder not only provides a list of names, it also gives baby names and their meanings.  These tools offer a great way to find unique baby names.  In addition to this Quick Find device, the site also contains a list of famous names and a dictionary which is an alphabetical listing of all the names in the database.  If you are already set on the first name, this service can also be used as a baby middle name finder.