The Husband Stitch

The scary truth behind the husband stitch and what this represents.

Preventing tearing, or repairing tears or episiotomies from birth is a key part of helping a woman recover post childbirth. At a time when post-natal care and the mother's health is paramount, an antiquated procedure known as the 'husband stitch' is still being performed on women after childbirth.

What is the 'husband stitch?'

Referred to as the 'daddy stitch' or 'husband stitch,' it's an extra stitch given to women in the repair process after a vaginal birth. The idea behind this is to tighten the vaginal opening for the purpose of the increased sexual pleasure of a male partner. Administered immediately after childbirth when a new mother is too emotionally and physically exhausted to make an informed decision, the 'husband stitch' often has painful consequences for women well after childbirth.

In today's day and age, it can be hard to fathom that this kind of practice still takes place - a practice that shifts the focus of medical care from the patient for the benefit of a third party. Some have wondered if it's an urban myth but, unfortunately for some women, the 'husband stitch' has been administered in recent years raising questions about how far we have actually come in progressing a woman's right to choose what she does with her own body.

Adjusting to motherhood

Adjusting to motherhood is a monumental change. Not only has your body changed but the time after childbirth brings up a flood of emotion, and learning as you adjust to motherhood and let your body recover. At a time when looking after yourself is just as important as looking after your new baby, some women don't even realise or know that they may have had the 'husband stitch' until painful experiences long after childbirth.

While there haven’t been scientific studies to determine exactly how many women have been affected by the 'husband stitch', the growing number of anecdotes from women act as a word of warning to be diligent and careful about the medical professionals who look after you post childbirth.

As outlined in a recent article on Healthline.com, Tamara Williams, a 27-year old mother from La Marque, Texas recalls how she felt before, during, and after realising she had been given an extra stitch. Williams found out she had been given an extra stitch following her 2015 birth when her boyfriend mentioned it. Her boyfriend mentioned he thought Williams had heard the midwife saying she would 'throw in an extra stitch for him.'

Williams had been on such a 'baby high' after the birth that she had no memory of the midwife making that statement. Now, knowing that she was given the 'husband stitch' Williams wrestled with emotional pain while dealing with continued pain during sex even after the birth of her second child.

What actually happens to a women's body in childbirth?

Going through pregnancy and a vaginal childbirth can put a strain on your pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a collection of muscles, ligaments and tissues that stretch across the pelvic bones. The pelvic floor supports your pelvic organs including the womb (uterus), vagina, bladder, and bowels.

As the muscles in your pelvic floor become stretched during pregnancy and childbirth, they may weaken. This makes strengthening your pelvic floor muscles fundamental for healing your body post-childbirth. Strengthening this area of your body helps you to maintain bladder and bowel control while enhancing the feeling and senses in your vagina after childbirth. Focusing on strengthening this area with your own health as the priority will contribute to helping you heal after childbirth and enjoy a healthy sex life as you choose.
 
What the 'husband stitch' represents

With the emotional adjustments that come with being a new mother, and the physical changes to a women's body that occur in childbirth, another misguided part of the 'husband stitch' is the lack of understanding and knowledge of a woman's body that this procedure represents. The idea of the 'husband stitch' demonstrates the belief that some medical professionals think the strength of a woman's reproductive region, for the purpose of pleasing a sexual partner, is only conducive to a single stitch in an area that fundamentally has nothing to do with the health of a woman's pelvic floor. Further, it shows a lack of understanding of a woman's body and goes against the principles of providing medical care focused solely on a birthing mother herself.

The strength of the pelvic floor is what helps women maintain bladder and bowel control, particularly after childbirth. This is what helps a woman recover and enjoy a healthy sex life after childbirth, not surface level procedures such as the 'husband stitch' that aren't focused on the health and recovery of a new mother.

While this procedure is concerning, it serves as a reminder to be diligent when you are in the process of deciding on which medical professionals will help you through your pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal care. From the anecdotal evidence recounting the painful experiences of the 'husband stitch,' ensuring medical professionals are just as invested in your health as you are will have a positive impact on your health years after childbirth.

Going against the surgical principles of healing for a new mother, the practice of the 'husband stitch' represents the dark undercurrent of misogyny that is perhaps still alive in the medical profession today - an undercurrent that, as we become more educated about these issues, will hopefully begin to fade.

With a keen interest in holistic health and wellness, Nicola Smith works with clients in the health and wellness industry providing copy that engages audiences and helps businesses grow. Her goal is to help people have a holistic approach to their health, and inspire others to simplify their lives, pack a suitcase, and book a ticket to somewhere they've always wanted to visit or live. You can also follow her adventures on Instagram @luggagelifestyle.

How to Handle Depression While Raising a Child

If you’re a parent who is depressed, it can be a struggle raising a child. Sometimes, you feel like no matter what you do, you’re not good enough for your child. Other times, you may not feel like you have the motivation to take care of your child. If you’ve had any hobbies, you’ve lost them.

Depression can happen shortly after birth. This is known as postpartum depression. However, some mothers, and fathers too, can feel depressed all the time, and this can hurt their child. The child may not be getting all the care they need, or the child may feel like they are to blame for the parent’s depression.

If you feel depressed, here are a few ways you can tackle it.

Identify Triggers

Sometimes, depression is triggered by something. For example, you may think of a childhood memory or hear something in the news that concerns you about your child. Other times, it’s self-defeating thoughts. Write down the circumstances surrounding your depression. What do you think triggered it? What can be done to prevent the triggering in the future? By finding ways to prevent triggers, you can feel less depressed.

Exercise

As a parent, it can be hard to exercise. If you’re a mother, you may have lost the motivation after having your child. For fathers, they may feel too busy to work out. However, working out can release feel-good chemicals in your brain and can help treat depression. Go on a walk with your child. Go to a yoga club. Find a good fitness trainer. You don’t need to get fully buff, but by working out just a little, you can improve your mood.

Be Honest with Your Child

As you’re fighting your depression, your child may wonder why you’re upset or have lost all motivation. If this happens, be honest. Explain depression. If your child is younger, you can do it in a colorful way. Just stress to your child that it’s not their fault. People can get depression under any circumstance. This can help your child’s own depression, and allow them to be more mindful about their mood.

Start Small

When you’re depressed, you may be overwhelmed with goals, or feel pressured to be on a routine. Don’t do everything at once! Instead, start a small goal. Maybe you want to cook a meal today instead of buying food at a restaurant. Try that. Then, work your way up!

Seek Help!

Parental depression is often complex and doesn’t have a single cause or single way to treat it. Seeking therapy for moms through the care of a therapist may be needed. A health professional can diagnose you with depression and give you medication for the symptoms. Then, you can learn coping skills and strategies to reduce your depressive episodes, along with figuring out the triggers and causes for your depression.

Parenting should be a joy, but for many, it’s not. There is no shame in being depressed. Instead, you should realize depression happens, and try to treat it as soon as possible.

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

How to Choose the Best and Safest Infant Car Seat for Babies

From the time you got out of your hospital room with your newborn, you are required by law to have an infant car seat. Find out how to get the best one for you and your family.

Essential Things You Must Know Before Going On The Market For An Infant Safety Seat 

Finding the perfect infant car safety seat for your newborn is not an easy task, especially if you're a new parent. You can't help but get overwhelmed with so many choices available out there. There are also many factors you need to take into consideration including car seat laws.

Infant seats come in different types, from convertible car seats to lightweight and portable ones for smaller vehicles. Moreover, once your child is a toddler or older, you have another task of finding the right booster seat that also comes in several types including high-back and backless booster.

Car seats are not created equally. Knowing your requirements will help in choosing the right one for you and your baby. Reading reviews and articles online on top-rated infant safety seats such as Mother How TOP List can help you with your decisions as well.

What Is An Infant Safety Seat?

An Infant car seat is specially designed to cater to a child weighing up to 35 pounds. These seats are also always positioned facing the rear of your vehicles. It comes with several features that provide comfort for both you and your adorable newborn.

However, one of the main reasons why you need to get one is that car seat law across the country requires your infant to be in the rear-face mode until he or she have reached its height and weight limitations, which is typically by the age of two.

Today, there are convertible car seats you can buy with extended capacity for the rear-face mode and can grow with your child.

Difference Between Infant and Convertible Car Seats

Infant Safety Seat 

• Its weight limit is up to 40 lbs. 
• You can only use it on rear-face position. 
• Majority of brands come with a handle making it easy to carry and transport. 
• You will not disturb your baby's sleep when you're getting him in and out of your vehicles.

Convertible Car Seat 

• Offers a weight range of up to 50 lbs. 
• There are also some brands that offer a greater weight capacity. 
• You can use it as rear-facing if your infant is smaller. 
• You can use it as front-facing when your child is older and has reached the maximum limitations of the rear-face mode.

What You Need To Consider When On The Market For A Car Seat

Rest assured that all car safety seats you will find on the market today are obligated to satisfy the safety regulations and standards of the government. So keep in mind that a lower price tag does not necessarily mean that the seat is not as safe as those expensive ones. The difference lies in the extra features for more costly seats such as straightforward installation and additional safety measures not obligated by law.

Nevertheless, there are several things you need to take into consideration. Getting a car seat is just like purchasing a new vehicle wherein you have to see it as whole.

• How it will fit your car. How it will fit your car. Make sure to select an infant car seat that correctly fits your car. You also need to consider how comfortable it will be to switch the seat from one car to another if you'll be using more than one vehicle. Choose a portable one if you have a smaller car.

• Buying second hand. If you're on a tight budget, you may be considering getting a used seat. But it may have some damage to it not visible to the naked eye. Also, it may not be up to the current safety standards. If you can't afford a new one, make sure to buy from someone you truly trust. Furthermore, check its expiration date or if it has been recalled.

• Cleaning. Babies can create a lot of mess. So when shopping for an infant seat, look for one with a removable and machine washable cover. Comfort. A crying infant on a long road trip is a headache waiting to happen. Choose a padded seat that offers enough head support to keep your baby comfortable no matter how long or short the drive is.

• Check for recalls. Your baby's safety should always be your top priority. Always check if a brand or model is a part of a recall. You can check online or call the seat's manufacturer. The best way to know is by visiting the website of The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Best Baby Infant Car Seat

When it comes to reliability and safety, the best choice out there is the Peg Perego ® - Primo Viaggio 4/35. This infant car seat packed with superb features to keep your infant safe and secure during the ride. It combines aesthetics and functionality as what you can expect from Peg Perego.

This rear-facing seat passed the government safety regulations and crash tests with flying colors. It also provides further protection to your infant by adding an anti-rebound bar to its base reducing the impact of both rear or front collision. For side impact protection, it comes with head support and energy-absorbing foam. You can also recline it on different angles so your baby will be very safe and comfortable.

However, it does come with some drawbacks. You cannot wash the seat's Italian-made cushion in the washing machine. Also, the anti-rebound bar is not adjustable, so it may not be suitable on some vehicles. Overall, its extra safety features and durability makes up for some of its shortcomings.

Pros

• Easy-to-install base with LATCH connectors. 
• Designed with your baby's comfort and safety in mind. 
• You can use it easily when traveling without the seat's base. 
• Offers additional protection in the event of a crash. 
• Comes with a two-year warranty.

Cons

• Not many stroller brands are compatible with it. 
• The cushion is not machine washable. 
• You may find the handle a little bit uncomfortable when extending the canopy.

Related Facebook Group for Q&A: CarSeats

How to Manage Anxiety During Pregnancy

Anxiety can happen to anyone for any reason. However, during pregnancy, your chances of developing anxiety increase. This isn’t just due to the fact that you’re going to be a new parent. It also can be because of all the hormonal changes that go into one’s body.

If you have mild anxiety and you’re pregnant, it’s nothing to worry about. However, if you have extreme anxiety attacks, this can affect you and the baby. It’s important to get that anxiety under control. Here are some ways you can do so.

Eat Right and Exercise

Eating a proper diet can help you if you have anxiety. Not only that, but exercises releases feel-good chemicals in your brain that can reduce your anxiety. Taking a walk outside or doing some home exercises can work, or go to a gym or yoga class.

During the later stages of your pregnancy, it’s important you talk to your doctor and fitness instructor to help you perform exercises that are safe for the baby and for your own body as well.

Breathe

Controlled breathing can help you when you’re having an anxiety attack. It’s amazing how a few controlled breaths can get your body under control. With that said, there are many breathing exercises you can try in order to calm you down. We save give some of them a spin and see what you can come up with.

Write Down Your Episodes

The best way to tackle anxiety is to write down the circumstances surrounding the anxiety attack. Where were you when the attack occurred? What do you think triggered it? What was going on in your head at the time? Sometimes, anxiety can happen because of random circumstances. Other times, there may have been a trigger you were unaware of.

Think Positively

Odds are, you’re worried as a new parent. You hope your baby is born with nothing wrong, and does well as they grow up. However, worrying isn’t going to save the future. Instead, think more positively. Think about all the good times you’re going to have with your child when they are born. Think about how great it will be to get back into shape whenever the baby is born. Think encouraging, positive, productive thoughts. This can help you grow and help you if you feel like your mind is overly negative.

Talk About It!

Finally, you should talk about your problems. Talk to your spouse, your family, or anyone else who is willing to listen. This can help you relieve some of your anxiety and stresses you may have concerning your unborn child. If you feel like no one can help, seek professional help. A counselor can help you treat your anxiety, as well as find reasons as to why you may be feeling like you do.

Parenthood is fantastic. That’s why you shouldn’t let anxiety stop the start of a great adventure. Talk to a professional today and learn how you can cope with anxiety.

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

Why You Need To Give Your Kids A Tech-Free Holiday

Although it sometimes seems like a million years ago, I vividly remember what it was like to be a kid. As a child of the 80s, my youth wasn’t spent living up to the unrealistic expectations that social media places upon us or being glued to electronic devices. I have fond memories of countless hours spent outdoors, playing with my neighborhood friends until the streetlights illuminated at dusk, signifying to us that it was time to run along home.

I am eternally grateful to not to have had to spend my early years in a time that was consumed by technology and all things social media. I secretly wish I could offer my children this same luxury that was awarded to me as a means to keep them safe, and allow them an opportunity to grow up in a time when their self-worth didn’t rely on a “like” from a stranger or reaching that next level in a silly game. Sadly, many children today are codependent on electronics, and their parents overindulge them with tech gadgets in place of parenting.

Being a parent in this day and age is hard, but what’s harder is being a child in a time when social media and technology in general have so much control over a person’s day to day life. Our role as a parent is often to shield our child from dangers, but to teach them limits and to know when “enough is enough” for things that should be practiced in moderation.

Think you could put yourself on pause from all things tech for 2-3 weeks? Here’s why you should do it for your kids--and yourself--when possible.

Give Your Littles a Chance to Recharge Their Brain And Rest Those Tired Eyes

Staring at LED screens isn’t good for our eyes, and the same can be said for our little ones. With the explosion of handheld devices in the past decade, opthamologists are seeing a steady increase in vision impairments in young children. Breaks from screen time are vital, and a tech-free holiday can essentially be just what the doctor ordered for your children and their precious eyes. Also, encourage your child to use their endless imagination when it comes to playtime. Their budding brain will thank them--and you!

Real Quality Time Together as a Family

We all know that we’ve been guilty of being together but not actually being present. When we’re glued to electronics we aren’t giving others our undivided attention. Put those phones, tablets and game consoles aside and focus on what’s really important when you’re with the people that you love the most, each other! Another simple trick to implement even when you’re not on a designated tech holiday? Always keep those electronics tucked away during family meal time. Breaking bread with those you love should be a cherished time and a chance to catch up on the day and get to know those people you adore even more.

Keep Your Kids Safe From Those Hidden Dangers Lurking on the Internet

For any parent, our biggest fear is something terrible happening to our child. Life is truly unpredictable, but there are certain precautionary measures that we can implement to keep our kids safe. The very first step towards protecting your kids from online predators is to start a dialogue on the topic so that they can become aware. Teach your kids that they should never, ever for any reason give out personal information about themselves to a stranger on the internet. The internet is a scary place for a parent of an impressionable youth, and we must always keep that in mind. There are even websites openly selling Fake IDs - and Fake ID reviews websites too. Go a step beyond that initial chat by implementing parental controls and limiting their screen time, along with monitoring their online activity. When it comes to our kids, we can never be too safe.

Think you’re ready to the challenge and start your tech-free holiday? Make a pact to stick to it together and accept the challenge for yourselves. We promise you won’t regret it, and we assure that it is possible. Start with a weekend, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see how quickly the real time spent together goes by.

Electric Car for Kids: Pros and Cons of Buying One

Modern ride-on toys are technologically advanced, safe, and designed to look like the real thing. Some models are even equipped with very cool features like FM radios, seatbelts, and engine sounds. If you’ve seen one of the ads on electric cars for kids, you’re probably convinced that your precious little ones will enjoy cruising around in it.

Before you go and start shopping for your beloved child’s first “car,” it pays to know what some of its pros and cons are; to determine if it’s the most suitable toy for his age.

PROS

Teaches independence.

Driving around is incredibly fun, but it’s more than just child’s play. Ride-on toy cars can be a way for your child to learn different skills that he can apply later on in life. One of these skills is being independent.

You’re not going to take care for your son and daughter forever. Sooner or later, they have to get by on their own. This is why developing independence at a young age can be beneficial.

An electric car can teach self-reliance because your little driver gets to make decisions whether to turn right or left, go uphill or downhill, and to speed up or slow down. Whatever choice they make, they have the opportunity to handle the consequences.

Enhances motor skills.

Kids need to know how to work with their hands, and driving an electric vehicle is an entertaining way to teach him. Good hand-eye coordination can be developed when you allow your child to interact with tools and machines like electric cars for kids. It makes him more aware of his surroundings and trains his brain and hands to respond to various situations.

When acquired at a young age, this ability can prove useful, especially if your child becomes a surgeon or painter in the future.

Allows more time outdoors.

Like many parents these days, you may be concerned with how much time your kids spend sitting in front of the TV or tinkering with their gadgets every day. If you’ve been looking for a way to make them enjoy the sunshine more instead of being cooped up indoors with their video games, an electric car could be the answer.

Going out to play enables them to move around. Being outdoors can be beneficial for health, particularly in these times when childhood obesity is becoming an issue. Because children have higher energy levels when outside, they burn more calories and build stronger bones and muscles.

Teaches responsibility.

Let your child participate in doing chores like washing his car and putting it away in a designated area of your house. This will not only teach him responsibility but also builds his self-confidence because this will make him feel that he has accomplished something. Families form stronger bonds when every member is acknowledged as making a valuable contribution.

Instills teamwork and cooperation.

Letting your kid go electric car-riding in the park with other kids his age helps him to understand the concept of cooperation and teamwork. While traveling in a group, they decide together which part of the park to go and explore without getting in each other’s way.

If the car is a two-seater, your child will learn valuable lessons on sharing and cooperation as he takes turns with a friend in driving.

CONS

Requires close parental supervision.

Although there’s very little chance of your kid falling off or colliding with another, a ride-on electric car has its risks. With a toy car that’s easy to turn on and operate, what parents fear most is their kids driving straight to a pool or an open road.

This concern, though, can be remedied by always supervising your child while he’s on the wheel.

Needs battery recharging.

The car runs on the power of a battery which needs to be recharged after every use. A fully-charged one can provide your child about an hour and a half of riding. The time can be even shorter depending on speed and terrain.

Charging time can take as long as four hours, so your kid has to practice a bit of patience before he can go zooming away again.

May lessen socializing.

Your kid may be having such a great time with his car that he doesn’t ask other children to play with him anymore. Making your child happy by buying him a toy that he loves is a good thing, but he also needs to socialize and connect with his peers.

To make sure that this is done, take your child regularly to a large park where others with electric cars also play. This will allow him to spend time together with other kids

If you are considering to give your child an electric car as a gift, you have to ensure that it is the best choice for both of you. He may be the one driving and riding in it, but you also play an important role in assuring that it influences him in a positive way.

10 peaceful travel tips for high-flying families

If your extended family is far-flung or you’re working abroad on a diplomatic posting, you might fly more frequently than most. And while technology strives to make travel smoother, fate sometimes conspires to make everyone a little antsy about airplanes. With that in mind, here are ten peaceful travel tips for high-flying families.

St. Christopher

St. Christopher’s the patron saint of travelers, so many of us like to seek his blessings by wearing a discreet charm inscribed with his likeness on a chain. Shop St. Christopher medals at joyjewelers.com to find something suitably subtle. 

Vehicle games

If you’re driving to catch your flight and your kids are climbing the roof with boredom, don’t despair — old school vehicle games like the license plate game, I Spy and 20 questions are more entertaining than you might remember.

Compression socks

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can be deadly, so guard against it by buying some compression socks from a specialist supplier like Vital Active. They may not help you win the style stakes, but they’ll keep you safe at 35,000 feet.

Airport parking

Traveling to the departure airport with kids can be less stressful in your own vehicle than public transport. But book airport parking with Looking4.com to keep your care safe while you vacation — they’ve got secure facilities in locations from Newark to Nashville and beyond.

Ear pop prevention

Young children can find the ear-popping sensation which often accompanies takeoff and landing very painful. And while sucking sweets can help, soaking a tissue in warm water and applying it to the ear works wonders — ask the cabin crew to help prepare this remedy.

Self-hypnosis

If you’re flight phobic but are entering a period of your life when you can’t avoid taking to the skies, self-hypnosis with the assistance of a program from hypnosisappstore.com might help. In time, you’ll teach yourself to feel completely calm and confident in as little as ten minutes.

Irish affirmation

As a nation with a large global diaspora and a deep history, Ireland has developed smart and sophisticated ways of wishing travelers well. Learn this travel blessing from IrishCentral.com by heart to turbo-charge your positivity ahead of a big trip.

Snacks

Healthy travel snacks are a surefire way to keep kids calm and cool during a flight — so pre-pack some granola bars, trail mix, PB&J sandwiches and fruit juice. Full bellies lead to travel bliss, so don’t leave home without nice nibbles.

Magnet games

If your kids prefer real-life tactical fun to electronic entertainment, travel magnet chess or tic-tac-toe can be carried on the plane with minimum fuss and provide hours of entertainment. But be warned — when children get bored of playing with each other, parents have to be prepared to step up to the plate and take part.

Audio books

An audio book is an excellent way to while away the hours on a long flight. There are thousands of titles to choose from, but Buddhism for Busy People by David Michie is especially relaxing and cathartic.

So ends our list. Add your own peaceful travel tips in the comments section.

Top 2019 Spring Vacation Destinations

As the cold days of winter wind down, it's natural for your thoughts to turn to spring vacation. If you're looking for a sunny spot to help you forget the winter blues, then you're in luck. There are several destinations that may tempt you, and each one boasts luxurious Club Wyndham timeshares where you can relax in style.

1. Orlando

This family-friendly favorite is an excellent place to spend a spring vacation. It's loaded with theme parks, water parks and exciting attractions, and the weather in the spring is mild enough to make it easy to enjoy them all. Be sure to consider day trips to nearby destinations like Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. Staying at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek timeshare in Lake Buena Vista near Orlando is a good jumping off point in this area.

2. San Diego

Another destination that promises fun for everyone, San Diego is famous for its world-renowned zoo. Balboa Park is another can't-miss destination. It features 17 museums like the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Man and the Natural History Museum. Gardens and performance venues also are found in the park. Other highlights include the USS Midway Museum, the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

3. Austin, Texas

The "Live Music Capital of the World" is an ideal destination for a spring vacation. Head to Sixth Street to experience the live music for yourself, and don't forget the Bullock Texas State History Museum, which features everything from historic statuary to a space suit from the Apollo 14 mission. Get out of town to explore the Inner Space Cavern, take a brewery tour and enjoy a refreshing dip at the Barton Springs Pool.

No matter where you decide to spend your spring vacation, you'll enjoy it more when you choose a timeshare for your accommodations. Hotels are nice but they simply do not offer you the value and amenities that you'll discover at every timeshare property.

Timeshares generally provide a greater diversity and quality of community amenities than hotels do. A pool complex that includes a hot tub is all-but guaranteed. Additionally, spas, where luxurious personal treatments may be scheduled, are available on site. If you don't feel like cooking, head to the restaurant where delicious meals are always waiting. Game rooms, tennis courts, gyms, fitness classes and more all are readily available to you.

That's not where the benefits of choosing timeshares end. The accommodations are second-to-none. Most have at least one or two private bedrooms, enabling the whole family to sleep in absolute comfort. Multiple bathrooms frequently are available too. If you're the kind of traveler who likes to prepare a few of their own meals, then you're in luck with a timeshare. Most villas have full kitchens with all major appliances, utensils and everything else you need to enjoy some home cooking. With a washer and dryer inside many units, your family is ready to enjoy all of the comforts of home without actually being at home.

Spring vacation is a wonderful opportunity to discover a sunny new spot on the map. Choose a timeshare as your companion.

3 Tactics to Numb Chronic Pain

Chronic pain in any part of the body can be seriously aggravating. Not only does it last for weeks or so, but it's also very hard to cure. It's very difficult to diagnose and pinpoint the exact cause of chronic pain. It can be anything from an injury to sleep deprivation or mental state. Pain is very subjective and its source can be hard to locate. The fact that it persists for so long can be quite detrimental to a person's well-being.

However, do not despair. Although all of this is true, chronic pain can be cured, or at least alleviated to a certain point. There are many techniques you can try, and some are bound to work for you.

Painkillers

Doctors usually prescribe analgesics, or painkillers, to a patient suffering from chronic pain. They are definitely the obvious way to go. There are various types of pain relievers, since there are various types of pain, too. They range from mild ones that don't even require a doctor's prescription, to opioids, much stronger ones that are used in extreme cases of unbearable pain. All this aside, you should always check with your doctor before taking any of these.

Milder ones are usually ibuprofen or aspirin-based. These drugs will only help temporarily. And there is another downside to them - there's a risk of becoming reliant on painkillers to the point of becoming immune to them.

Much stronger drugs should basically be the last resort. They can have an anti-inflammatory effect, and they can be steroidal or not. It all depends on what your particular diagnosis is. These are used for much higher levels of pain. Although very effective, they can do serious harm and be highly addictive, especially opioids like morphine. Doctors also use antidepressants, corticosteroids and anti-seizure drugs to cure chronic pain, even though it is not these drugs' main purpose.

Other Medicinal Methods

Local painkillers include different types of numbing ointments and creams that have an anesthetic effect on the affected area. These usually don't require a prescription since they are not that strong. Still, they can be somewhat effective. Just apply the numbing cream on the painful area and you should feel instant relief. However, the relief is rather temporary.

Massage and physical therapy are certainly more common. Anyone can get a massage, even if they are not in pain. It can help you relax your muscles and thus alleviate some of the pain. Physical therapy is more specific and focused on the problematic body part.

Without a doubt, the most invasive method is surgery. However, surgery is necessary only in extreme cases of chronic pain.

Non-Medicinal Methods

Acupuncture has become quite popular as a means of numbing chronic pain. In case you didn't know, acupuncture involves careful careful insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body. It's considered alternative medicine, so the outcome is somewhat unpredictable. But, there have been cases where acupuncture worked perfectly.

Another similar method is electrical stimulation of the injured body part. Electric impulses stimulate your muscles to help them relax and prevent muscle cramps, which will build their strength and eventually relieve the pain.

Psychotherapy can also be very helpful with chronic pain. It's quite different from all the other tactics in this article because its effects are probably the least apparent. But, your pain can be caused by mental issues without you even knowing it. Insomnia, stress, depression - all of these can be huge contributors to your pain. Psychotherapy can help you deal with them.

A good diet can have a big impact on your pain, too. What is considered a 'good diet' is still rather vague, but all practitioners agree on one thing - a good diet should include a lot of healthy proteins and a moderate amount of carbohydrates. Proteins strengthen your muscles, whereas excess carbohydrates only contribute to weight gain and actually weaken your muscles.

And the last tactic, but certainly not the least, is CBD oil treatment. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a completely natural mixture of cannabis and hemp extracts. Lately, CBD oil has become so popular that even doctors are recommending it to patients with chronic pain. It has virtually no side effects and it's effective right away. If you want, you can check out a study by iSum on this topic.

How to Keep Your Family Photos Safe and Secure

Family photos are a treasure trove of memories. From cherished photos of our kids when they were young to photos of relatives who have passed on, nobody wants to lose their much-loved photograph collection. Whether your family’s photograph collection is stored in albums or you have a digital archive, read on for some useful tips on keeping your photos safe and secure.

These days, many photos are digital, so they are stored on computers and other digital devices. This is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, you can store a huge number of digital photos without needing any space in your home, but on the other, digital photos are at risk of data theft and hardware failure.

Local Storage

Digital photos are typically stored on memory sticks, SD cards, and hard-drives. This is great, but don’t underestimate the misery caused when a device fails and you lose a precious collection of irreplaceable photos. Imagine how traumatic it would be if you stored some photos of your baby on a computer and the hard-drive died. If you had no other copies or backups, those photos would be lost forever.

Technology devices are not immune to hardware failure. They are also the items most likely to be stolen during a break-in at home or work. There is also the possibility that you might end up leaving a laptop on a train or in a car that’s subsequently stolen.

Recovering Lost Digital Files

Accidents happen and sometimes, despite our best efforts, hard-drives fail or devices stop working. If this happens to you, try not to panic. It is often possible to recover data from corrupted or damaged hard drives. Companies such as Secure Data Recovery can recover data from a damaged device and bring your photos back to life.

Cloud Storage

To protect your family’s digital photo collection, ensure you back up the files to an online cloud service, where files are encrypted and stored on multiple services.

Many people store their data in the cloud because it is perceived to be safer than storing it on a local device. This is sensible, but only if you use a reputable service and password protect your account. Family photos are unlikely to be targeted by hackers unless you are a celebrity, but this doesn’t mean that a hacker won’t try to access your account when searching for more interesting data.

Imagine if your iPhone or iPad is stolen and the hacker has access to your iCloud account. They could delete your files and you could lose all your precious family photos.

If you don’t want to lose your photos, always store them in multiple locations. Maintain a cloud storage vault, keep a collection on a hard-drive or memory stick, and print off your favorite photos and have them framed.

Don’t forget to keep printed photos safe and sound, especially if they are irreplaceable. Old photos can be scanned and turned into digital files for posterity. Otherwise, store them in a fire-proof box, just in case.

How to Give Safe Gifts for 10-Year-Olds

The older kids get, the less parental supervision they want. Some kids will even go to great lengths to escape their parents’ watchful eyes—hiding in the basement or attic, staying up late to play, or claiming they were “studying” at a friends’ house when they were actually watching TV.

All these are part of growing up; kids want to be their own person, someone whose identity isn’t dependent on mom or dad.

That doesn’t mean you as parents won’t do all that they can to make sure that their kids are safe and that they grow up to be good people. Try as you might to supervise your kids every time they’re out playing, you can’t be omniscient and omnipresent. Sometimes, the best you can do is make sure their toys are safe and teach them proper safety guidelines.

With the holiday season coming up, here are the safety standards you should be looking for when choosing Christmas gifts for 10-year-olds.

General safety guidelines on choosing gifts for all ages 

KidsHealth has compiled a list of general safety guidelines when it comes to buying gifts for kids of all ages. Here’s what you need to look for when buying gifts for babies and kids:

1. Flame resistant. The fabric used in toys must be flame resistant or retardant.
2. Washable. Toys, even plushies, should be easy to clean and wash.
3. Lead-free. The paint used in toys must be lead-free.
4. Non-toxic. Art materials, such as crayons and paints, should be nontoxic. Look for the ASTM D-4236 label, as this means the toy is approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
5. Noise appropriate. Make sure the toy isn’t too loud when played or used. Musical or electronic toys can be very loud, which can damage your kids’ hearing.

How to buy safe gifts for 10-year-olds 

Intopten.com has a list of the best gifts for 10-year-old boys, and topping the list are pogo sticks and walkie-talkies. Does safety mean forgoing fun toys and buying your children a nice, softbound, plastic-covered book instead?

The truth is, there’s no such thing as a toy with zero risks.

Kids are creative; they can probably find ways to endanger themselves with a soft white pillow, let alone a book they can hurl across the yard. They’re children—there’s no point in getting them a boring gift they’ll hate and never play with.

That being said, cool and fun toys should still be compliant with safety standards. Here are must-dos when choosing toys for 10-year-olds.

Skip the hand-me-downs. If safety is your top concern, don’t give old or hand-me-down toys as these may not pass the current safety standards.

Buckle down. Ensure that your kids use helmets and other recommended safety gear (e.g., shin, hand, and wrist guards) when playing with ride-on toys, such as bicycles, scooters, hoverboards, and skateboards. Look for CPSC or Snell certification on the labels.

Get quality nets. Nets should be well made and firmly attached to the rim. Otherwise, these nets can become strangulation hazards.

Weapons aren’t toys, and toys aren’t weapons. When choosing pretend weapons:

• Ensure that the ends of toy darts or arrows should be suction cups of soft tips instead of pointy material. 
• Choose toy guns in bright colors so they can’t be mistaken for real weapons. 
• Teach your children to never point toy weapons at anyone. 
• Always choose age-appropriate toys, as there are some toys that should only be played by kids over 16 years old. 

Check the label. Electric toys should be labeled UL, an indication that they are approved by Underwriters Laboratories.

Keeping toys safe at home 

The first step toward safety is buying safe toys. The second is keeping them safe while at home. KidsHealth recommends the following steps to ensure continued safety:

• Teach kids to take care of their things and put toys away. 
• Regularly check toys for breaks and damages. Rust, sharp edges, and frayed wires should be remedied right away. Discard immediately when toys are unusable or pose risks. 
• Throw away broken toys or repair them right away. 
• Store outdoor toys properly when they're not in use, so they're not exposed to rain or snow.

Choosing safe toys for 10-year-olds isn’t a difficult task when you know what to look out for.

Remember: the real gifts you’re giving your kids are these lessons on safety and the assurance that you’re always looking out for them—gifts that’ll be useful for the rest of the year and for the years to come. You can also choose gifts for twelve year old boys. For 12 year old boys, giving something educational or per their interests is ideal. 

Print out this checklist or bookmark it on your phone, so you can bring these safety guidelines with you when you go shopping.

Keeping Your Kids Safe as They Get Older

When your kids are young, we do everything we can to keep them safe. Everything around the home is padded, there are covers on the outlets, Halloween candy is checked before consumed. We do this as long as we can, but there comes a time when your kids need to start looking out for themselves. The older they get, the more they do on their own, and the less we can protect them.

That being said, there are still some things that we as parents can do. Here are just a few suggestions on how you can help to keep your kids safe as they get older.

Teach Safety Precautions

First, you should start teaching your kids some safety precautions. These are the things that your parents likely taught to you – don’t go anywhere with strangers, always look both ways before crossing the street, don’t walk alone at night, etc. Unfortunately, there are dangers everywhere, even just walking down the street. According to MyPhillyLawyer, “Thousands of people are injured or killed in traffic accidents involving pedestrians, motorcycles and bicycles each year in the U.S.”

Every kid has to learn these lessons at some point, so you might as well start instilling them in your children now. The sooner you do, the more ingrained they will become. Then, long after they have left your home, they’ll still be looking both ways whenever they cross a street.

Pass on Safe Driving Habits

One of the more dangerous aspects of anyone’s life is driving. You’re cruising around at high speed alongside other drivers who are doing the same. While you can’t control their actions, you can at least control your own, and put into place practices to keep yourself safe. It’s these habits that you’ll want to pass onto your kids.

Show them the importance of wearing a seatbelt, of going the speed limit, and of always using their blinker. Teach them how to inspect their car for any issues before they drive, and how to remove distractions. By setting a good example, when the time comes for your kid to get their license, they will have a solid base of good habits in the back of their minds.

Know Where They Are

Even as your kids start to become more independent, you’ll want to keep track of where they are. If they’re going to a friend’s house, find out the address. If they have a club meeting or sports event, find out where it is. When they move out, have them check in with you when they’re traveling long distances. Knowing exactly where they are will help to ensure that they stay safe and also give you some piece of mind.

Just as important as knowing where they are though is knowing who they are with. What adults are in charge where they are going? Who can you call in an emergency? Can you trust the people they’re with? Get some detailed information before you let your child go anywhere, and keep up this habit for as long as they’ll let you.

Teach Them to Care for Themselves

Finally, no matter what you do, the time will come when they will be on their own. When this time comes, you want them to be able to take care of themselves. You can help to prepare them for this by providing them with the right tools.

For instance, they should know who to call in an emergency. Show them how to set up an appointment with their doctor, how to find a lawyer if they need one, or what to do when calling the police in an emergency.

You can also show them how you have made your home a safer place. Show them how to check the batteries in a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector, where to store a fire extinguisher, and what to place in a first aid kit. These are important things to know, and you’ll want your kids to be prepared when they move out.

Protect Your Kids for Years to Come

As parents we dread the day when we are no longer able to keep our kids safe. But if you instill in them the right lessons, and take some extra precautions yourself, you can do a lot to keep them safer even though they are becoming more independent. Just a little bit of time and effort can go a long way. Hopefully this list was able to give you some ideas, and both you and your kids will be able to live long and peaceful lives.

Could your child's sleep problems be a sign of separation anxiety or ADHD?

The ideal amount of sleep that is necessary for a child to properly function both physically and mentally, decreases with each passing year by roughly 15 minutes. For example, a newborn child should sleep for at least 14-16 hours, while the same child, on hitting 17 years of age, will require only about 8 hours of sleep.

Unfortunately, according to the National Sleep Foundation, almost 70 percent of children below the age of 10 usually go through some sort of a sleeping disorder that cuts down their sleeping hours. We will now discuss some of the most common reasons behind sleeping disorders experienced by children and how you can help your son/daughter overcome it.

Separation anxiety and how it disrupts sleep in children

Kids often find it difficult to sleep during the night simply because they are afraid of being away from their parents for an entire night. This is termed as separation anxiety and it may cause the child to fantasize about his/her worst fears. A child suffering from separation anxiety might begin to exhibit troubled behaviour and signs of stress as soon as the pre-bedtime routine begins or maybe even earlier.

Studies have shown that children with separation anxiety will in most cases have trouble sleeping even after being tucked in at night. Effects of insufficient sleep in such cases will start to affect the child’s daytime routine as well, thus making him/her anxious, lethargic and sometimes even depressed throughout the day. Check with the points below to see if your child is suffering from night time separation anxiety.

• Excuses to delay bedtime.
• Significant signs of stress and visibly spoiled mood before bedtime.
• Erratic and distressed behavior as sleeping time approaches.
• Requests to sleep with parents. 
• Climbing into bed with parents during the night. 
• Regular nightmares and shrieking. 
• Calling on parents multiple times during the night after being put to bed.

How parents can counter separation anxiety induced sleep disturbances in children

As the problem originates from a feeling of insecurity, the primary objective is to make the suffering child feel secure and this requires tactical approach, knowledge and patience. The guidelines below are designed to help both you and your child sleep better by addressing the issue at its roots.

Patience - Patience is a virtue and it is more so in this particular scenario. You can never get angry or cranky with your children even if you are losing your own sleep. One needs to remember that sleep disturbance is not “bad manners” but a serious and stressful condition that your son/daughter is going through. It has been found through research that some children even believe with firm conviction that if they go to sleep alone, they may die.

Acceptance and control - Now that you have understood and accepted the fact that your youngster has a real problem, the next step is to not reinforce it. What we mean is that you should not let your child sleep with you every time he/she wants to. If the mind of the child does not face its imaginary fears, it will never truly get over them.

Conversation - As discussed previously, parental assistance is a must in getting over separation anxiety and therefore, you must start by finding out what scares your child. Although the particular fear plaguing the mind of a child will differ widely; darkness, monsters, fear of being harmed or family getting harmed are usually the ones that top the chart.

Assistance - After finding out exactly what is troubling your kid, discuss the issues in detail. Try to find ways of convincing him/her about the imaginary nature of the fears by talking for as long as it takes. If required, take further measures such as checking under the bed for monsters or just putting in a low-powered night lamp. Keeping the door slightly open to let the hall light seep in is a time-tested way of making children feel safer. You can also use calm music or sounds that reassure your child to ensure a good night’s sleep for the entire family. A white noise machine is found to be exceptionally useful in putting children to sleep. Do whatever is necessary to make your child feel safe by assisting in facing the fears but never really helping to avoid it.

Routine - Finally, parents must remember to regulate their children’s day cycle in such a way that come bedtime, they are too tired to be disturbingly imaginative. Additionally, a warm bath with scented candles and bedtime stories make for a relaxing pre-bedtime routine rather than an abrupt end to a day. Do not allow consumption of sodas, chocolates and other food that may contain caffeine or might have a high sugar content as that can significantly disrupt sleep even in adults when consumed before going to bed.

Positive reinforcement – After your initial methods begin to bear fruit and you see that your child is putting in real effort to get over the sleeping problem, it is time to reinforce that effort with positivity. For example, after their first successful night of sleeping alone, reward them with something small but dear to them. Following that, make a chart or a table and encourage them to aim for higher rewards by sleeping well for a certain number of nights alone in a week first, and then a month.

Depending on your kid’s situation and psychological build-up, it may take anywhere between a few weeks to several months in order for separation anxiety to completely leave the child’s mind. Nonetheless, he/she will get over it in due time with your assistance and love.

ADHD and its effects on children’s sleep

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is an extremely common psychological disorder that affects a lot of children around the world and may even trouble teenagers and adults in certain cases. A child affected by ADHD may find it difficult to concentrate or pay attention towards anything at all.

In addition to having a poor attention span, the hyperactive mind of the child might cause him/her to behave impulsively and uncontrollably. As any parent who has a child distressed by ADHD will tell you, the disorder directly or indirectly affects all aspects of a child’s life as well as that of his/her parents.

It has been found that the hyperactive and irritable nature of ADHD also interferes with a child’s sleeping habits, which in turn makes the condition even worse because of the effects of sleep-deprivation. In fact, research is ongoing to find out if medicines used to control the adverse effects of ADHD are at times responsible for the sleeping problems which are rampant among kids with ADHD.

Unfortunately, the link between ADHD and sleep is not commonly known. Sleeping problems is just one of many symptoms and the diagnosis is established based on severity and combination of symptoms. While many ADHD signs can appear in early age, the formal testing for ADHD is usually not recommended before the child is at least 6 years old. However there are some online screening tests for child ADHD that could be used starting from age 4.

How can you help your child with ADHD sleep properly?

The truth is that all children who suffer from sleeping problems need to be put through more or less the same routine, irrespective of whether or not they are suffering from ADHD. Nonetheless, here are a few extra tips in addition to the ones mentioned above.

Strict scheduling – A fixed “lights out” time is necessary to build a strict sense of routine. What this means is that you must put your children to bed every night at the same time and also wake them up every morning at the same hour. This helps the body of your child in setting his/her biological clock in sync, thus eliminating sleeping problems on most nights.

Control stimulants – Children are sensitive and children with ADHD are more so. Therefore, maintain a calm environment within the house prior to bedtime. Parental arguments, loud TV or music, video games or physically arousing play sessions are all counterproductive and should be avoided.

Wake them gently – You should not wake up anybody with a loud noise or a vigorous shake, let alone a child suffering from ADHD and sleep deficiency! Try pulling the curtains off so that the daylight gets in the room or call them in a gentle voice.

Prepare a morning routine – As ADHD makes children abnormally hyper at the slightest of stimulation, it is essential that they go through a morning ritual which prepares them slowly for the day ahead. Avoid stress induced by rushing at the last moment to ensure a good start to the day for your child.

Control napping sessions – Although small children do need to sleep a lot more throughout the day, the same does not apply for your teenager. Other than the nightly sleeping session, he/she should not be allowed to sleep for more than half an hour during the working part of the day as that would make it even more difficult for someone with ADHD to go to sleep at night.

Consult your pediatrician – If all else fails, mild medications like melatonin in small doses can be used to help children with ADHD sleep better. However, consulting your pediatrician before taking such steps is a must.

There are exceptional cases where the condition of the child is so advanced that he/she might need additional medical assistance. In such cases, special care institutes can come into play. Most children however, usually get over their sleeping troubles if they have supportive and knowledgeable parents.

5 Dietary Additions to Amplify Progress Toward Your Health Goals

When you're motivated to make lifestyle changes, you want fast results. You may see room for improvement when you look in the mirror. Perhaps the lab results from your last physical concern you and your doctor. Now that you're committed to your health goals, you'll need to consider how your diet affects your body. After all, choosing the right foods will help you reach your health goals that much faster.

Use Whole Eggs to Build Muscle

Have you seen the movie "Rocky?" In the opening scene, the hero starts his day by chugging a glass of raw eggs. It turns out Rocky was on to something. A recent study indicated that whole eggs are better than egg whites for promoting muscle growth. Eggs, especially the yolks, are packed with muscle-building protein.

The yolk is also rich in vitamin B12, which helps the body break down fat and supports muscle contraction when you work out. Eating raw eggs preserves nutrients. However, cooked eggs are safer to eat and still provide valuable vitamins and protein.

Add Coconut Oil to Super-Charge Weight Loss

Dieters often focus on low-carb, high-fat diets to lose weight. Meals that severely limit carbs cause the body to enter ketosis. When you're in a ketogenic state, your body burns fat instead of carbohydrates to produce energy.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs) which support ketosis. Coconut oil can also help you feel satiated and eat less food. Lifesum explores coconut oil's effect on low-carb diets in detail.

Support Heart Health With Salmon

If you're reading up on heart health, you'll learn about the benefits of eating omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3's support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation. This is important because inflammation can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease.

You may lower your blood pressure and of the risk of stroke by adding omega-3s to meals. Fatty fish, including salmon, is a healthy source of omega-3s. A 3-ounce serving of salmon has 1,500 milligrams of omega-3s.

Boost Your Memory with Cherries

Do you lose your keys or forget why you walked into a room? If you suffer from random bouts of brain fog, you're not alone. Try snacking on a bowl of cherries or a glass of cherry juice to boost your memory.

Cherries and dark berries are rich in anthocyanins and other flavonoids that support cognitive health. A European Journal of Nutrition study concluded that drinking cherry juice improved long-term and short-term memory.

Choose Oatmeal to Lower Cholesterol Levels

Routine blood work often includes testing your cholesterol levels. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the bad cholesterol which leads to blocked arteries, heart attack, and stroke. Eating oatmeal and other high-fiber goods can lower your LDL levels.

Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which helps stop the absorption of cholesterol in the body. As a bonus, eating oatmeal does not lower your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) good cholesterol.

What motivates you to reach your health goals? You may want to build a leaner or stronger body, improve your memory, or ace your next physical. Try these power foods to start making positive changes today.

How to Babyproof Your Home

The wriggling, squealing baby in your arms is going to grow up fast. Pretty soon your baby will be tearing around the house and trying to get their hands on anything they can grab. Protect your little one by babyproofing your house as soon as possible.

If you’re a first-time parent, you might be wondering if it’s worth the effort. Can’t you just keep an eye on the baby to make sure she doesn’t get into trouble? The reality is that babies and toddlers can be so rambunctious that it would be hard to watch them every minute even if you had eyes on the back of your head.

Accidents happen. You can’t prevent everything that might happen but you can do a lot to lower your child’s risk.

Don’t worry. Babyproofing a home is easier than it seems. It just requires common sense and attention to details. We’ve compiled a list of expert tips and tricks to help you out.

Get to Know Your Water Heater

Scalding water is the last thing that you want to be splashed on your baby’s skin. A curious toddler has no concept of how to be safe around faucets. Once the child has turned on the hot water, they can easily burn themselves.

To keep your family safe, set your water heater to 120 degrees or less.

Unless you want to be stuck trying to bathe your child with freezing water, you should also make sure that your water heater isn’t faulty. At https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-mornington-peninsula, they note that their Mornington Peninsula, Australia, team arrives “with all the parts and supplies right there with us on every call to ensure we can get started straight away fixing your plumbing issues on the spot. This saves you time from waiting around and it also saves you money...”

Call the right plumber and fixing your water heater will be a simple, painless task.

Secure Your Furniture

A child can easily pull an unsecured bookcase or dresser down on top of themselves. You can avoid this by securing problem pieces of furniture to the wall. A rowdy toddler might try to climb on shelves or yank on tall lamps.

According to a website run by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the number of children harmed by falling TVs every year is increasing. Don’t forget to secure your nursery as well. Diaper changing tables can be treacherous.

Keep Your Bathrooms Locked

We’ve already seen how easily babies can injure themselves by playing with faucets. It turns out that there are other dangers lurking in the bathroom. Slippery floors, a bathtub large enough to drown in. Small children also start playing with the toilet sometimes, exposing themselves to dangerous chemicals and bacteria.

Clear your bathroom counters of anything that might harm your baby. Grooming items like you razor need to be kept far away from curious baby fingers. Your cleaning supplies should be kept out of reach as well.

Cover Your Sockets 

Electric socket covers are cheap and easy to find. They’re an integral part of babyproofing a home. Make sure that the covers fit snugly, you don’t want a dedicated child pulling them out.

Use a Baby Gate

Once your baby starts moving around independently, you’re going to want to buy a baby gate. Place them at the top of stairwells and you’ll mitigate the risk of your baby falling down the steps.

You can also use the gate to keep your little one out of certain rooms. For instance, you might want to keep her out of the kitchen while you’re cooking.

Eliminate Tripping Hazards

A toddler’s gait is often unsteady; expect a few trips and falls as your little one learns to walk. That doesn’t mean, however, you shouldn’t try to reduce the risk. Try to clear your floors of anything that might get tangled up under your baby’s feet. Use furniture covers to blunt sharp edges on things like your couch and coffee table.

Remove Potential Toxins

Make sure that all cleaning supplies and medications are securely put away. Something as simple as leaving your laundry detergent on the counter could have devastating consequences if your baby grabs hold of it.

Remember Your Windows

You should prevent your upper story windows from opening too wide. Be wary also of the long cord on your blinds. Kids loving wrapping things around their neck.

Be Present

Don’t allow your child to roam freely around your home until it’s safe for them to do so. A child can get into trouble within seconds if left to themselves, even if the house has been thoroughly babyproofed. Be present in the moment and keep a close eye on your little one.

Healthy Foods for Kids

Introduction

Is your kid fussy while made to eat food? Does your kid only like junk food and avoids all healthy food? Well, that's because no matter how nutritious some foods like broccoli and spinach are, kids don't like the taste of those green vegetables. What your kid wants is some tasty and scrumptious food, while you want a nutrient and vitamin-rich food intake for your kid. Look no further, as we have combined the list of healthy and tasty meals, which would get your kid's taste buds kicking and help him in his body growth and development.

Tofu

Tofu is manufactured after being pressed into solid white blocks from condensed soy milk, and the manufacturing process is quite similar to that of cheese. Safe for human consumption, in fact very kid-friendly, tofu contains some rich vitamins and minerals. It is very high in protein intake. It also includes all essential amino acids, carbohydrates, calcium, fats, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium, and fiber. Tofu is not generally used to serve as a whole dish, but it enhances the creamy flavor of desserts. Tofu helps in bone growth and strengthening, which is why we consider an ideal eatable for kids.

Yogurt

Scientifically proven to have more calcium than a glass of milk, yogurt is very healthy and beneficial for young kids, especially those who are planning to keep their stomachs clean. Yogurt contains probiotics, which is a bacteria that helps keep bellies healthy and clean. It also contains protein, making it ideal for kid growth. Yogurt is a much better option compared to low-quality sugary products, which are not so good in their nutrient intake. Whether you select just to use some honey, cornflakes or biscuits, there is no denying that yogurt is a healthy treat for all, especially kids, and can suppress stomach pain.

Salmon

Fish has always been known to be high in nutrition intake. So what makes Salmon even unique? Well apparently, it makes the first list of lowest mercury intake – an element which is hazardous for human consumption. This rich-in-protein fish also contains OMEGA-3 fatty acids, which is another plus for your kid’s development. Salmon has natural flavor, which means that it can be grilled or cooked with little to less seasoning using best bbq utensils and tools easily. This food is a definite plus for kids and adults alike.

Mango

Mango is that one fruit that is loved by kids and adults equally alike! Whether your kids choose to eat it as it is or make a milkshake or juice, mango will always be the king of fruits. Not only a scrumptious dessert, but mango is also rich in the supply of vitamin C, which is plenty to keep your kids’ immune system active and running, while also providing an abundant intake of fiber too. Contrary to popular belief, this sweetened fruit is also suitable for both teeth and gums. The good thing about this fruit is that this is something that is both nutritious and tasty to eat too, compared to spinach and broccoli, which are usually avoided by kids.

Grilled food

You might consider us absurd for just saying so, but the cooked food is actually pretty healthy. Grilled food prepared using quality grills is a better option compared to deep frying and pan frying, and when combined with some other natural elements, it becomes even better to eat. All in all, it all entirely depends on the food preparation. If you choose to season your food with either lemon juice or garlic, your kids would love the distinct savory flavor, and it will help reduce the intake of excessive sodium due to a non-salty seasoning. Bring out the barbecues, parents!

Avocado

Also known as the creamy greenish fruit, the avocado is consumed a lot in the western world, and for all the right reason. Most parents opt to use it as a spread on toast in place of butter or mayonnaise. Also, mashing it after peeling and then devouring it is also a good choice. Avocado contains fats but the healthy ones, i.e., mono-unsaturated ones. It can also be combined with lemon juice etc. to get the best taste. Also, avocado shakes are not a bad idea as well, and once your kids get the hang of its delightful flavor, they would be asking for more!

Conclusion

We really hope that this list has helped you discover the healthy plus tasty side of food for your children. Most of these foods are pretty high in protein, vitamins, calcium and fiber intake, and moreover, have almost no side effects. Also, these food look tasty and appetizing, which is a plus point especially if you have children who are very selective in food choices. But don't forget the essentials! Milk, water, and grains are some of the must-haves for your kids, and no compromise should be made in them.