Candy Bouquet For Teacher's Day Or Any Occasion

This is my candy bouquet for Teacher's Day.

Teacher's Day rolled by and I figured I wanted to give something nice to my son's kindy teachers coz' they're really nice. They are dedicated teachers and I like how they are always smiling. That's a tough thing to do when you have to deal with so many young cheeky kids. Plus my son loves going to school there and it is because of the warm environment they've created that makes it conducive for them to learn.

Anyway, I decided to do this candy bouquet last minute. So I scrounged around for stuff and I had what I needed: satay sticks, colored tape (ideally it should be green but I only had yellow), colored tissue paper, glass paper and ribbon. I remembered how some people put 2 Hershey Kisses together to make a rose bud, so I decided to go with that.

Around the rosebud, I wrapped the colored tissue paper. I cut the top so it looked frilly, like petals. Added some curly ribbons to make it look nicer. Used green paper to cut out the leaves and had my son write "Happy Teacher's Day" on them. The kindy only has 4 teachers so I figured I'd give 2 flowers to every teacher.

My son loved the idea and the teachers were ecstatic to receive a unique, homemade gift.

These flowers actually turned out better than the Mother's Day candy bouquet I made. You could make these for any occasion: Valentines' Day, birthday, anniversary etc....



You could also put it into a vase to make a centerpiece for your table.

If you want to learn how to make candy bouquets (you could even start a business doing this), check out this book by Lana Glass. She has tons of ideas and she teaches you step-by-step: How To Make Candy Bouquets For Fun & Profit

Keep Track Of Your Children's Computer Time

The school holidays are here. Only for 2 weeks but I know what's going to happen... COMPUTER MADNESS. I can bet every day my kids are going to come to me with this question "Mom, can I play the computer?" 

Well, I had computer rules a while back. Some are still being followed while others have kinda been forgotten. So, it was time to revise the computer rules.

COMPUTER RULES

• STUDY BEFORE PLAY.
  I've already told my kids they need to plan what they want to learn these 2 weeks. An idea would be to learn stuff they don't learn in school like music, languages, art and creative writing. It is a time to explore topics that aren't covered in school. It can also be a time to identify weaknesses and work on those (since exam results are out). Another idea is to choose what workbooks they want to work on and then create a study schedule.
• 6 HOURS A WEEK.
  That's basically an hour every day (except Sunday). It is very timely that I came across these Technology Punch Cards Printables. It's a great way to keep track of how many hours the kids are on the computer. I told my kids that this 1 hour they have is purely for their entertainment. They can play games and watch their shows. Other online educational work I give them will not be counted in this 6 hours.
• MINUS 30 MINUTES FOR EACH CHORE NOT DONE.
  I've already identified chores that they need to do like taking out the trash, folding clothes, keeping their room tidy, vacuuming and mopping the rooms, keeping the tables clutter free. If one chore is not done, 30 minutes will be taken away from ALL of them. This way there will be no finger pointing. They have to work as a team. It doesn't matter to me who takes out or doesn't take out the trash. All I care is that it is done!

 So, that's the plan for this school break. Do you have problems with your children using the computer excessively?

Candy Bouquet For Mother's Day

Okay, I know I'm a bit late in posting this. Mother's Day was a few weeks ago. However, we celebrate Mother's Day every year so this idea can still be used for next year and the years to come.

I did this candy bouquet for the sisters at church. My branch president insisted I get flowers. However, some sisters said that flowers won't last. They'll wilt even before they get home from church. They suggested chocolates instead. So, what to do? I decided to combine the two: flowers + candy. In my opinion, the money spent on this is more worth it than just buying flowers that will die.

Of course, it took a bit of time to make all those candy flowers. Most of the time was spent cutting the paper into the right size and shape. Assembling the candy flower was not difficult at all.

My only regret in making this candy flower is not buying a better quality chocolate. Ideally, I would have gotten Ferrero Rocher but those are kinda expensive. If I was just making 6-12 flowers, I think I would have bought it but making about 30 candy flowers made me look for alternatives.

Anyway, basically all I used were satay sticks, green tape, ribbon, crepe paper and glass paper.

The first time I heard of candy bouquet was when I came across this book: How To Make Candy Bouquets For Fun & Profit. Of course my candy bouquets are not as professional looking as what is taught in the book. But if you are interested in learning how to make candy bouquets, this book is very helpful.

Mom Tips for Memory Making Family Vacations

Guest post by Kendra Thornton

Photo Credit: kennymatic via Compfight cc

Family vacations are the time of year that everyone is able to relax and laugh while embarking on a great adventure together. The key? Preparation. If you take steps in advance, you can have a family vacation that creates the memories of a lifetime.


1. There are a host of fabulous options for kid-friendly vacations. You might long to visit an island paradise, or maybe a theme park adventure is what your troop desires. There are mountain cabin resorts with horseback riding and hiking trails, and some family designed cruises offer kids clubs and certified childcare services. Whatever vacation you choose, explore your options. When my family was looking for a special vacation destination, we chose the breath taking Hawaiian Islands. Since Hawaii can cater to the honeymoon crowd, we were sure to do our research to find a child-friendly resort that was still ranked amongst the best hotels in Honolulu. You will want to be certain there are plenty of opportunities for every member of the family to enjoy.

Photo Credit: peasap via Compfight cc

2. If your trip includes hours in a car, you should think about making the backseat into a kid-only zone. If you make the back seat not only comfortable but fun, the kids are more likely to enjoy the transportation aspect of their travel. Bring along favorite pillows, blankets, snuggle toys, and consider night driving. When you arrive at your destination, the driver will need a good nap, so plan for that. If one parent sleeps during the drive, they can take kids swimming or off to play in a nearby park. If you travel during daylight hours, you may want to invest in shades to block out the sun's rays and encourage napping.


3. Children are easily entertained by electronic equipment. Consider downloading audio books to a tablet or iPad, and be sure to provide earphones. Music CDs and movie DVDs are additional ideas to pair with portable devices. Hand held electronic games are another choice to consider. You may also want to think about bringing coloring books, crayons, drawing pads, and pencils. I am also so fascinated by how long my children are entertained simply with a new box of crayons! Whatever you take to lessen the “Are We There Yet’s” will be well worth the time spent planning.


4. Perhaps the most crucial tip regards motion sickness. When traveling with a child that you know is susceptible to queasiness, be prepared. Airplane ground travel to runways, flight departures, or landings usually present the greatest opportunities for upset tummies. Whether traveling by car, plane, boat, or train, let your child face forward and see out a window. Feed them something light 30 minutes prior to takeoff, and water or milk are definitely better drink choices than orange juice. You may want to look into a child approved motion sickness remedy as well. As with all new medications, talk to your child’s pediatrician beforehand.

Tips to Curb Summertime Teen Laziness

Most of us enjoy a lazy day when we can sleep in, putz around and just relax a little - and our kids are no different. However, when the dog days of summer come, some teens take that one "couch out" day and stretch it over an entire summer break. Here are some tips to combat summertime teen laziness and keep your teen active and engaged.

Communicate Expectations 

Tell your teen in a nonthreatening but firm manner that you will not accept their staying in bed all morning and afternoon. It is perfectly reasonable to ask that they get up at a decent hour. Explain that you want them to do more than merely watch TV, play video games, or visit social networking sites all day.

If your teen wants you to help pay for their summer activities, they should be willing to abide by a few summer guidelines. Set an age appropriate, specific time that you expect them to be home, based upon the level of trust they have earned. Ask them to take on a couple of extra chores during the summer to earn some pocket money. These chores could be for you or someone else, but make sure they go above and beyond the normal, everyday chores that every member of the family should be expected to do.

Get Them Engaged 

Whether you ask them to help you more around the house, participate in volunteer activities in the community, or help them get a job, you want them to be engaged in something worthwhile. Give them encouragement to help at a YMCA, children’s program, or nursing home. They may find they truly enjoy these volunteer activities and you will help them appreciate the joys of serving others that will last a lifetime.

Help them find volunteer positions by calling around to local places of worship, daycares, charities, or nursing homes. Local businesses may be hiring summer help; offer to help them find a job to earn some extra money. This will help them learn to manage money, but will also help them realize the value of their time. If they get paid by the hour, they might be less likely to fritter their time away.

Spend Family Time

Avoid giving lectures about what they should do during the summer. (Lectures, period, are ineffective with teens.) Instead, find activities that you can do with them. You don’t have to spend every waking moment with your teen, but take some time to take them shopping, go to a movie, or out for a coffee. Keep it relaxed and let your teen open up to you in their own time and way. Summertime is a great time to reconnect with your teen. Don’t let these weeks go by without taking this time to slow down and just be together.

Encourage Physical Activity

Take time to learn or play a new sport with your teen. Not only will this help your teen be more active during the summer, it’ll help you get some much needed exercise, too. Boys in particular are more likely to enjoy "side by side" activities. These are often great times to open dialogue with your son about important issues. Give tennis, swimming, cycling, or rollerblading a try. You both will benefit your health and well being.

Parents all over the country complain that their teens get lazy during the summer break. But teens, just like toddlers, need guidance, clear communication, and reminders of your expectations in order to be successful. These tips should get you well on your way. Ask your teen if there are things they’d like to accomplish before school starts, and then help them to meet those goals.

Need More Help?

Here are three guides to help you reconnect with your teen, so you can help them with the rocky road of being a teenager.

1. If you're gearing up for another summer with your teen and want to dread trying to keep them occupied, happy and out of trouble, check out School's Out for plenty of expert resources to make it a great summer.

2. Real Life Guidance to Understanding Your Teen shows you how to accept what you can and cannot control in your teen's life, how to cope with mood swings, keeping the lines of communication open.

3. Real Life Guidance to Helping Your Teen in High School includes practical suggestions to help your child find his/her identity, avoid bullies, handle peer pressure and more.

Grab them all to be armed with the easy-to-follow advice at your fingertips. They're available for instant download, which means you can get the help you need any day of the week, even if it's the middle of the night.

Lego Super Heroes Iron Man Extremis Sea Port Battle Set Review

Superheroes plus Lego... that is like one of the best combination for a child. If your child is a big fan of Iron Man or the Avengers, then you will want to consider The Lego Super Heroes Iron Man Extremis Sea Port Battle Set. Even if your child has never played with Legos before, this is a perfect set to introduce to your child to get them building and learning along the way.

These sets are in huge demand thanks to the popularity of the Iron Man superhero character and the movie franchise. But does this particular set represent good value for your child?

Key Features of the Lego Super Heroes Iron Man Extremis Sea Port Battle Set

• Includes 3 minifigures: Aldrich Killian, Iron Man with Mark 42 Armor and War Machine
• Killian character’s speedboat
• Speedboat with a hidden storage and dual pistols
• Buoy with exploding function
• Weapons include pistols
• Ages 6-12

 

Click here to get the best deal

Is the Lego Super Heroes Iron Man Extremis Sea Port Battle Set Worth Buying?

The minifigures included in this Lego set represent the characters of Aldrich Killian, Ironman with mark 42 amour, and the War Machine. This particular set can be used with other Lego Ironman collections for more creative play and hours of fun for your child. The Extremis set is not huge in size, but it is one of the more affordable options available, which will make it a popular choice with parents!

This Lego set is easy to put together, as Lego provides very descriptive picture directions that make it easier for children to use and comprehend. Please note the suggested age for playing with this set, as it is not safe for children under the age of three, due to the small parts that can cause a choking hazard.

The storyline behind this Lego set is to stop Killian from getting away with Ironman and the War Machine. Your child can blast the boat with the exploding buoy, fire dual missiles, and begin attack with War Machine’s shoulder cannon.

The details on the boat are realistic to this adventure. The hood of the boat opens and is able to fit a minifigure inside of it. The boat’s flick-fire missiles are very easily workable to create many different scenarios with this Lego set.

Lego stands up to its high standards, with no noted drawbacks to this set considering the low price. Overall, this is a great Lego collection to keep your child entertained for hours using his or her imagination. This is one toy that you need not hesitate to purchase for a young (or even grown up) Iron Man fan!

Click here if you want to read other customer reviews on this product.

Minced Pork Balls in Sweet and Sour Sauce

Cooked this dish of minced pork balls in sweet and sour sauce the other day and it was a hit with my family. If you would like to try it out, here is the recipe.

Minced Pork

• Marinate your mince pork with salt, sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce (and if you have, chicken marinate too). Let it sit at least for 1/2 hour.
• Add about 1 tbs cornstarch so the meat will stick when you roll them into balls.
• After rolling them into balls, fry in oil till cooked. Put your cooked meatballs aside.
  
  
  

Vegetables

• Cut up cucumber, big onions, tomatoes and if you wish, pineapple.
  
  

• Saute the vegetables with garlic. Fry till cooked. Add in the sweet and sour sauce.

Sauce

• 3tbs honey
• 2 tbs sugar
• Salt
• 2 tbs ketchup
• 1 tbs distilled vinegar
• (Optional - Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce)

If you like it more sour, just add more vinegar or less honey.  How much sauce to make also depends on how much meat and vege you are cooking. If it is not enough, just double up the measurements.

Last Step
Mix the pork balls with the veges and sauce. Mix till everything is nicely coated. Dish out and serve.

Bon Apetite!

Make Your Own Pinwheel

I remember as a little girl, I loved to play with pinwheels. Once in a while my mom would buy one for me and it would have candy at the bottom of the handle. Good memories. So when I saw that MyMemories was giving this freebie to make pinwheels, I was all game. I've already downloaded it for myself.

If you have a bored toddler or want to inject some fun into your children's party, why not make some colorful pinwheels. Here are the freebies to help you. Only free until 21st April 2013. Grab it before they put the price back on.

Here are the links to the different digital kits

FREEBIE 1

FREEBIE 2

FREEBIE 3

To claim the free gift, you will need to create an account at the MyMemories website. Then you just click "add to cart" and you'll be able to download from your "my downloads" page.

The easiest way is to have the MyMemories Suite Scrapbooking software. If you do, you can easily install it directly to the software. If you don't have the software, you can still use the free digital kit. Just choose the download option for general use. It is suitable for software applications such as Adobe Photoshop & Photoshop Elements, Paint Shop Pro, etc....

Do You Encourage Your Children To Daydream?

I came across an article that says Nicole Kidman encourages her kids to daydream. I thought that was pretty interesting. I don't think many parents do that. On the contrary, I believe most of us try to stop our children from daydreaming.  If you had a child daydreaming while doing homework, I'm sure you'd say "STOP DAYDREAMING". Apparently, Nicole Kidman  regards it as a time for her children to relax and have "creative" time. And you know what, she may be doing the right thing.

Let's turn to what the scientists have to say about this.

According to researchers from the University of Wisconsin and the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Science, daydreaming may help to increase the brain's memory capacity. I guess you could say that it is one way to exercise the brain.

I've always tried to keep my children's imagination alive. I think school dulls their creative ability and so I always look for ways and activities to nurture their creativity. I guess I shall put 'daydreaming' down on my list. However, there is a time and season for everything. So work time is still work time. Daydreaming will be like 'dessert'.

What do you think? Do your kids daydream?

Related articles

• The power of daydreams: 4 studies on the surprising science of mind-wandering

Helping your Kid Survive Their First Sleepover

Sleepover (Photo credit: secondtree)

Some parents are terrified of sending their kids to their first sleepover. Others may just be thankful for a night of peace and quiet. Either way, this will be many kids’ first time sleeping in a room where their parents are not just across the hall or in a house they may not be familiar with, and this can be intimidating. By following a few suggestions you can help your kids have a fun and safe time at their first sleepover.

1. Learning about their home for the night

When you drop your kids off at the home they will be staying at, walk through the house and show them where the bathrooms they will use are, where they can go to get drinks or a late night snack, and anything else they may need during the night. This way the child will not need to worry about asking for permission or finding whatever they need at night. This also can help to prevent your child from walking into a room where they could get hurt or accidentally wake someone up.

Another important thing to do is let the hosting parents and friend know if your kid has any medication they will need to take, or a disorder, like diabetes, asthma, autism or severe allergies. They should know what symptoms are typical and which ones might be more serious and warrant a call home or hospital visit. You should also make sure that your child can communicate the kind of problems they might experience from their disorder, and let their friends know in what situations they should wake up their parents for help.

2. Social Skills

A first sleepover can be scary for kids. A whole night of playing and talking with their friends may be far more socializing than what your child has experienced in other situations. While the sleepover will probably be full of games, movies and other fun activities, there may also be a lot of downtime. During popular sleepover events, like scary stories or funny jokes, you don’t want your child to feel left out. To prepare them, teach them some scary stories and funny jokes that they can spread to their friends during the sleepover. This way they can be involved in the conversation all night.

3. Homesickness

Sleeping in an unfamiliar room far away from your family may be a totally new experience for your child. To help them become more comfortable with this, have them try sleeping in a different room at your own house. Because there may not be enough beds for each kid at the sleepover, get your child used to sleeping on other surfaces. For example, they can try sleeping on a cushy rug or a couch in the living room. By getting used to sleeping in these locations, they may be able to fall asleep faster at their friend’s house.

So your kid can feel at least a little bit at home during their sleepover, let them bring along their own pillow, if not their blanket as well. Having some of their own bedding can be a huge source of comfort while they are trying to fall asleep. If they can’t bring their own blanket, your child may only be given a sheet or thin quilt. Consider packing a pair of footed pajamas for kids, so they can stay warm like they would if they had their comforter from home. If they have a stuffed animal they like to sleep with, this could be helpful too. Just be mindful of how old they are, as at some ages bringing along a stuffed animal may become a source of teasing.

Sleepovers are an important part of kids’ social lives. However, the first one can be nerve racking for even the bravest child. By using a few techniques to help your kid survive their first sleepover, you may be able to help them have a great time spending the night with their friends.

Make Your Own Easter Party Bags

Aren't these Easter party bags the cutest? And the best part is, you can make it yourself. They are totally easy and fun to make. Fill them with candy, chocolate covered pretzels, chalk, crayons, or anything else you can think of.

Here are the links to the different digital kits

• FREEBIE 1
• FREEBIE 2
• FREEBIE 3

To claim the free gift, you will need to create an account at the MyMemories website. Then you just click "add to cart" and you'll be able to download from your "my downloads" page.

The easiest way is to have the MyMemories Suite Scrapbooking software. If you do, you can easily install it directly to the software. If you don't have the software, you can still use the free digital kit. Just choose the download option for general use. It is suitable for software applications such as Adobe Photoshop & Photoshop Elements, Paint Shop Pro, etc....  

For the tutorial, just click here.

p.s. If you are in need of fun Easter games for your party, check out these printable games.
Save 20% on orders $15 and up this Easter! Use 'EASTER20' at checkout. Offer ends 31st March 2013.

Easter Books For Babies and Toddlers

I came across this Karen Katz book that is perfect for Easter. It is called Where Are Baby's Easter Eggs?.

It is a board book and the pages have flaps for our kids to lift. My first Karen Katz book was Where Is Baby's Belly Button? . My kids loved that book and I enjoyed reading that book to them. This Easter book is just as colorful and entertaining as all her other lift-the-flap books. Yes I admit, I'm a big fan of Karen Katz books.

Here are some other Easter themed books you might want to check out.

4th Generation iPad Review

Everywhere you go, you will see someone using an iPad. Shows what a successful tablet computer it has become. It was the original iPad tablet that made tablets popular. It started a trend. Well, after 3 upgrades, we now have the new 4th Generation iPad. It's also called iPad with Retina Display. You probably heard of the iPad Mini too. That is like a sister-device aimed at competing with other smaller devices like the Kindle and Google’s Nexus.

DO YOU HATE THE 4TH GENERATION IPAD?

Some people were not too happy when they launched the 4th Generation iPad.  Mainly because the 3rd generation iPad was released only 7 months earlier. I guess you can say they felt cheated. If they had just waited another 7 months, they could have had the latest and more superior product.

IS THE 4TH GENERATION IPAD WORTH BUYING?

For those who don’t already own a 3rd generation iPad, the 4th generation iPad does represent a decent upgrade. So let’s take a closer look and see if it’s actually worth buying.

Key Specs For The New iPad

• Price Range: $499 - $929
• Storage Options: 16 GB; 32 GB; 64 GB; 128 GB
• Dimensions: 9.50 x 7.31 0.37 inches
• Screen Size: 9.7 inches
• Resolution: 2048 x 1536 pixels
• Processor: Dual-Core A6X; Quad-Core Graphics
• Photo Quality: 5 MP
• Video Quality: 1080p HD
• Battery Life: 10 Hours

WHY YOU SHOULD GET THE IPAD 4

• THE iOS MAKES IT EASY TO USE
  Whether you’re a seasoned Apple tablet user or not, the chances are you’ll be pretty familiar with the way Apple’s tablet operating system – iOS – works. That’s one of the biggest selling points of iPads – they’re easy to get your head around because they use what’s become the standard operating system on the market today.
  iOS is a highly streamlined operating system that makes it easy for people to navigate their device and do the things they want to do. It deliberately keeps things simple so that it can appeal to the broadest market possible, catching casual users too. iOS makes for a satisfying user experience and is a definite positive of this device.

• SHARP AND BEAUTIFUL IMAGES
  Apple’s Retina Display has become pretty famous with tablet fans. It’s easily the nicest screen on the market thanks to its ultra-high resolution and incredible pixel density. Essentially, this makes for really crisp images across the board, from the menu system and web pages to movies. If you’re a real fan of beautiful images, then the Retina Display will push all the right buttons. Currently it’s the best in class.

• BLACK OR WHITE - YOU CHOOSE
  The 4th generation iPad has the same familiar options that previous iPads have had when it comes to color. This is somewhat limiting, but remains classy. Choose between black or white, both of which have a stylish appeal that won’t spoil your chic fashion sense whatever you wear.

• 4 STORAGE OPTIONS
  This iPad comes with 4 storage options, making it the first iPad to do so. The options are 16GB, 32GB and 64GB, as standard for tablets, and a new 128GB option. This storage increase is great for heavy duty users, especially those looking to use an iPad in place of a laptop. 128GB doubles the amount of data you can store on this iPad over any previous iPad, which is a significant change.

• ONE OF THE FASTEST TABLETS
  This is the fastest iPad ever. Thanks to a processor upgrade from the A5X of old to the A6X everything flies along. Navigating the menu, switching between apps, browsing the web and gaming are all handled with complete finesse. This also means that games with more demanding graphics can also function just find on the newest iPad. It’s one of the fastest tablets on the market today.

• IMPROVED CAMERA FOR SHARPER IMAGES
  The front facing camera on this iPad has been upgraded. It’s now an HD camera that allows for sharper images of yourself – whether photos or webcam – and can also record in full 720p. This is a nice improvement over the camera of the 3rd generation iPad.

• APPLE'S APP STORE - MOST APPS AVAILABLE
  Apple’s App Store is still the best resource for apps in the tablet world. It’s got the most apps available and the lowest instance of corrupt and broken apps or virus-carrying apps of any applications store.

• LTE TO ENJOY FULL STREAMING MEDIA
  LTE is fast becoming a standard option for tablets and smartphones. It’s an ultra-fast cellular data service that can actually outperform conventional WiFi. It’s astonishingly fast, meaning you can enjoy full streaming media wherever you are provided you’re in range of your LTE network provider. This is a costly upgrade option but one that many will think is worth it.

 

COMPLAINS ABOUT THE IPAD 4

• DESIGN SAME AS 3RD GENERATION
  Compared with the 3rd generation, the 4th generation iPad doesn’t represent much of a design upgrade. It’s the same size and weight and features the exact same screen as the 3rd generation.

• HEAVY
  If you like to hold your tablet in only one hand then you may find that this is on the heavy side. It’s not comfortable for extended periods of one-handed use. However, this is true with any tablet! You can always buy the iPad Mini if you like something smaller.

• SPEND MORE ON A SPECIAL ADAPTER
  A major annoyance for owners of older iPad accessories is that this version isn’t compatible with those accessories. If you do want to make use of them with the new iPad you’ll have to pay for a special adapter, and it’s not cheap.

• IT'S EXPENSIVE
  The price of the iPad has long been an issue. Apple ride high on the strength of their brand, charging a premium price. The basic model will set you back around $500 and that will only give you 16GB of storage. If you want the largest 128GB storage option as well as support for LTE cellular data you’ll have to pay a massive $929. You need deep pockets to own an iPad.

Is The New iPad Worth Buying?

If you are looking for one of the best tablets in the market, then you won't regret owning the 4th generation iPad. It does so many things right. For many people, the biggest problem would be the price. But if money is not an issue with you, then nothing should stop you from getting it.

If you already own a 3rd generation iPad, it may not be in your best interest to make the switch. There's not much of an upgrade to make it worth spending extra money. Of course, maybe you really, really want to have the latest model. Then I can only hope that you are able to sell your current model for a good price.

It is a different story if you own a 2nd generation iPad or another older tablet. This will mark a big step up on all fronts and you’ll definitely be a satisfied customer. Highly recommended.

3 Things You Can Do To Help Baby Fall Asleep

Sleeping baby (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you have a baby who keeps waking up a night, you probably think whoever came up with the phrase "sleeping like a baby" must be crazy.

Well, the fact is some babies are better sleepers than others. However, you should be aware that it is normal for newborn babies to be waking up every two to three hours at night as they usually are hungry or wake due to a wet diaper. This phase should last only up to three months, but it can be longer for other babies.

Having a baby sleep throughout the night is one problem. Having them fall asleep in the first place is another problem. Some babies can just fall asleep on their own easily.  Others need a bit of coaxing.  

If you find that your baby is waking during the night or having a hard time falling asleep, here are a few tips that may help smooth the transition from wakefulness to sleep time.

Shorten Naps During the Day

If you find that your four month or older baby is having a difficult time falling asleep or is waking every two to three hours during the night, but sleeps for four to five hours during a day nap, it's time to shorten the napping period. Switch the sleep and wake clock on your baby.

Put your baby down for his or her nap at the same time each day, if possible. Slowly and gently wake your baby after two or three hours of sleep. This may cause crying in the beginning, but keep your baby occupied so he or she does not fall back asleep. This process will help your baby get down to sleep in the evening.

Soothing Bath Before Bedtime

Begin to settle down in the evening with a soothing warm bath for your baby. Sometimes a lavender baby bath will do the trick to calm the baby. Don’t get into playing during bath time. Talk softly and gently wash your baby enticing his or her senses with the lavender. Some parents like to use Babo Botanicals Lavender Meadowsweet 3 in 1 Bubble Bath Shampoo Wash because it has a plant based formula. In other words, it doesn't have all that harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens and artificial fragrances. The smell is not too strong. Instead it is very soothing and calming.


After the bath, rub your baby down with some baby lavender lotion, gently massaging his or her feet, legs, arms, and hands, all the time keeping the noise level low. I like to put baby powder on my babies. You should consider using Johnson's Baby Powder, Pure Cornstarch, Lavender and Chamomile. It feels great on the body and it uses cornstarch instead of talc, which is safer. Gently clean your baby’s gums or teeth, still keeping your voice soft. Over time, this will begin to signal to your baby that this is quiet time and time to sleep.

Reading a Bedtime Story

In your baby’s room, have a dim light on while you complete the dressing after bath time. Swaddle your baby and sit in a rocking chair or other comfortable chair and begin to read a short bedtime story.

As you are reading, hold your baby snug to your body, gently rocking him or her, and reading in a soft, gentle tone. After the story, place your baby in his or her crib, set the mobile music, a few rubs on the back, say goodnight, and walk out of the room.

Have you heard about Cloud b Sleep Sheep On The Go Travel Sound Machine with Four Soothing Sounds? It is a soft toy in the shape of a sheep that plays soothing sounds like a gentle stream, spring showers, ocean waves and harmonious whale sounds. It has won some awards from the National Parenting Council's Seal of Approval and the iParenting Media Award. Many parents love it because it is soft, cuddly and helps lull their kids to sleep.

ROUTINE IS IMPORTANT

It is important to understand that this is a process. These tips are to set a routine that occurs each night at the same time so your child will automatically start to wind down and want to sleep at a certain time. Your baby may fuss for about a week, but this should soon dissipate. Don’t respond to the little fussy cries and before you know it your baby will be sleeping through the night. Video baby monitors is a great tool to have at this time. That way, you can check on your baby through the video monitor to see if they are just fussing or really need your attention. You don't have to go in and out of the room. That might disturb your baby even more.

Oh yes, one more thing to note is that waking during the night more frequently than normal can be a sign that your baby is uncomfortable. If your baby is teething, have colic, wind or skin rashes, you can expect restless nights. Other than that, just keep up your bedtime routine.

Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light Turtle

Place this nightlight on the floor in the center of the room, and it will project a starry night sky onto the ceiling and walls. Lying there watching the night lights will slowly lull your children to sleep. Awesome!