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Dr. Emily Clarke

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Parenting & Childcare

How ABA Centers Impact the Lives of Autistic Children

Read more about how ABA centers positively support autistic children and their families.

Autistic children are not only children who have special needs, but they are special for many reasons. It is for this reason caregivers, medical personnel, and parents look for customized ways to improve the lives of autistic children.

One method has emerged as a breakthrough: Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA). ABA centers play a pivotal role in implementing this evidence-based therapy to enhance the skills and development of autistic children.

We have explored how ABA centers are designed to nurture, support, and develop autistic children to improve their lives.

What Is ABA therapy?

Since ABA therapy is a scientific approach, it focuses on understanding a child’s behavior and simultaneously improving said behavior by applying principles derived from behavioral psychology.

The aim is for an autistic child to increase positive behaviors while reducing unwanted behaviors. This is done through systematic assessment as well as intervention.

This approach has been successful amongst individuals with ASD as it addresses the core challenges. As a result, ABA therapy has grown in popularity due to its effectiveness.

The Role of ABA Centers

The role of ABA centers cannot be understated since a lot of time and dedication goes into managing the centers so that trained medical professionals can provide the best possible care.

These highly specialized centers like Lighthouse, are designed to create a structured environment that supports and facilitates learning and skills development. Here are some key components that make up ABA centers.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Children with ASD require customized treatment plans due to the nature of the illness. Each child has a unique set of needs, strengths, challenges, interests, learning styles, and weaknesses.

ABA centers conduct an in-depth assessment of each child to determine the specific areas of need and create a personalized plan based on this assessment.

For instance, Lighthouse Autism Center, recognized for its commitment to ABA therapy, emphasizes the need for a tailored plan for each child involving a play-based environment.

This center’s therapists evaluate each child’s communication skills, social interactions, long-term development, and more to create a customized treatment plan.

Structured Learning Environment

Children with ASD thrive in environments that are predictable and routine-based. ABA centers are known for prioritizing structured and predictable settings.

The reason for this is that autistic children must have a well-organized space that helps to reduce stress and anxiety and allows for optimal learning.

Centers usually arrange their classrooms to minimize distractions and incorporate visual supports to improve understanding.

Many centers incorporate structured learning environments into their programs. This further shows how these professionals recognize the importance of providing a consistent environment for autistic children.

Centers also look at sensory overload and work tirelessly to minimize this by using the correct types of lighting, keeping noise levels to a minimum, and so much more. The idea is always to create a comfortable environment for the child.

Trained and Qualified Staff

For ABA therapy to be successful, centers must employ trained and qualified medical professionals such as ABA therapists. In essence, the method’s success rests upon the professional implementing it.

Medical professionals in this field are highly trained and undergo rigorous training to ensure they have the expertise to deliver the treatment effectively. Rest assured, centers follow strict protocols to ensure the correct professional is selected for the role.

Decisions Driven by Data

It comes as no surprise that ABA centers systematically collect and analyze data. This data is used to track a child’s progress, measure how effective the interventions are, and make informed decisions regarding adjusting the treatment plan.

A data-driven approach allows for ongoing assessment and adjusting a treatment plan when needed.

The Focus on Functional Skills

There is a misconception that ABA centers’ primary focus is reducing challenges. However, this is not the case.

There is also an emphasis placed on functional skills, which include communication, academic, social, and daily living skills. Again, the aim is to enable a child to thrive in multiple settings.

Medical professionals at these centers work alongside parents and caregivers to incorporate functional skills at the center and in a child’s everyday life.

Medical professionals recognize the importance of incorporating a holistic approach to skills development. The goal will always be to enhance a child’s life, and targeting specific skills equips a child to navigate the challenges they will face throughout their lifetime.

Support Structure and Family Involvement

No matter what a child is experiencing, having a solid family support system is crucial in their development.

ABA centers recognize the importance of the family unit and understand that their role is vital in the success of interventions. Centers do their best to involve parents throughout the treatment journey by providing support and training.

This allows for consistency between the center and the home environment. Studies have shown that collaborative efforts between parents and ABA professionals offer a more meaningful and lasting outcome.

Are You Ready To Find a Center?

ABA centers are designed to be places of support that foster the growth and improvement of autistic children.

Medical professionals at these centers use evidence-based methods such as ABA therapy to address the unique challenges of autistic children.

These methods are supported by customized treatment plans in controlled environments, all of which contribute to an improved quality of life for a child.

Centers are also pro-data-driven decision-making and actively collect and analyze data to make informed decisions about a child’s progress. Lastly, the collaboration between the center, caregivers, and family members is crucial for the success and development of an autistic child.

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Baby & Toddler Care

How to Deal with the 10 Month Sleep Regression

How to Deal with the 10 Month Sleep Regression

Do you know at what age the sleep regression phase generally occurs? Before the age of 1, most babies go through several sleep regression phases. These may occur at 4 months, 6 months, and 10 months.

Many babies go through a 10-month sleep regression where they have trouble sleeping at night and keep waking up. It is usually characterized by sudden changes in the sleep cycle of a baby who was previously sleeping without any interruptions. This disrupted sleep pattern can cause many problems, such as shorter nap times, fussier temperament, and frequent waking up during the night. However, all of this is completely normal and may happen due to several reasons.

Usually, it is nothing concerning, but if you think your baby’s well-being and health are being affected, then you should consult a physician.

What Causes Sleep Regression at 10 Months?

What Causes Sleep Regression at 10 Months?

There can be many reasons behind the 10-month sleep regression of your baby. Some of the most common reasons have been listed below:

  • Separation anxiety due to sleeping in a new nursery.
  • Teething pain
  • Brain development
  • Some changes in the environment
  • New skills learned by the baby
  • Sensory development

Whatever the reason is, it is a developing phase for your baby and unavoidable too. As a parent, you would want to accommodate the little one’s whims to an extent, but you should be mindful of your baby’s health. During this time, they may get increasingly irritable and cry all the time. Daytime sleepiness may be at an all-time high, and as a direct consequence, they may significantly lose their appetite.

Both nutrition and adequate rest are important for the health and growth of a baby. If your baby is not eating properly and waking up every 2 hours at night, it can be incredibly frustrating for the parent, not to mention harmful for the baby.

So, you might want to know some useful tips to handle the 10-month sleep regression of your baby.

How to Handle the 10-Month Sleep Regression?

Here are a few things you can do to help your baby through her sleep regression phase:

1. Check if Your Baby is Sick

Check if Your Baby is Sick

Sickness can be the most common trigger for sleep regression. So the first thing you need to do is to see if the little one is physically healthy. If your baby is sick, then make sure you give them enough cuddles and kinship, along with plenty of fluids and rest.

If they still seem unwell, then consult a physician for an expert opinion. After this, you can promptly start to figure out a way to deal with your baby’s sleep regression.

2. Introduce Your Baby to New Physical Activities

Introduce Your Baby to New Physical Activities

Babies go through drastic development during their infant year, and these developmental milestones may be the reason why they are going through the 10-month sleep regression. So make your baby exert themselves and practice all their newly learned motor skills during the day. By the time it is night, they will be too tired to wake up and throw a tantrum.

Try to figure out what your baby is doing the most to avoid sleeping. They may try to pull themselves over the cot rails and get out of there, so settle your baby inside the cot during the day. Each time they come out, put them back. They will eventually get bored of this and also be physically exhausted as well as hungry.

3. Sleep Train

Sleep Train

Most people sleep train their baby starting at 4 months or so, but you can do the same for a 10-month-old infant. Sleep training is helpful when your baby starts waking up at frequent intervals during the night, and you have to go and calm them down to put them back to sleep.

There are several methods you can adopt, but the most common one is done by waiting for your baby to cry out for a while before you go in to soothe them. This may be emotionally difficult for parents, but only by being consistent can help your baby to have a good night’s sleep.

4. Try to Instill Self-Soothing

Try to Instill Self-Soothing

Self-soothing is a process where you teach your baby to fall back asleep on their own without needing their caregiver. The best way to do this is to establish a bedtime routine that does not accommodate a lot of sleep during the day.

Also include things that your baby likes, such as a bubble bath, watching something together, reading from a book, or listening to soft music; that will help them fall asleep. Maintaining a fixed bedtime will fix the circadian rhythm, and babies will automatically get sleepy when it’s time to sleep.

5. Address the Separation Anxiety

Address the Separation Anxiety

It is very normal for all babies to suffer from separation anxiety. If they see unfamiliar faces in the absence of familiar ones, they start crying. Familiar faces may include parents, siblings, and even grandparents if they live together. This happens because infants do not have any sense of object permanence- that is, they do know that a thing is still present even if they cannot see it for the time being. That is why it is wise to address this issue from the age of 10 months or so. Between 10 and 12 months, babies start to learn about object permanence.

Play simple games like hide and seek, where you hide and then appear in front of your baby multiple times. After one point, they will not cry even if they cannot see you. This will help them in the 10-month sleep regression phase.

6. Increase Their Food Portion Sizes

Increase Their Food Portion Sizes

At ten months, a baby becomes quite active as they shuffle through the house all they long. This also makes them burn a lot of calories. Therefore, you might want to add some more solids or increase the portion sizes of your baby. It is not wise to overfeed your baby at one go, so give them 3 instead of 2 meals a day. Introduce new snacks in their meal.

A ten-month-old also needs a set amount of milk to grow into a healthy child, so you have to factor that in as well. Hunger in a growing baby can often trigger sleep regression, and you must keep track of their changing appetite and make necessary changes to their diet.

7. Deal with The Teething Pain

Deal with The Teething Pain

Babies can start teething as early as 3 months, and this can continue until they are a year old. Thus teething pain can be a trigger for the sudden sleep regression in your babies. The development of the bottom lateral incisors happens around this time, and this might cause your baby to wake up in pain and discomfort every night. Develop a routine to deal with this.

Massage a clean finger over the baby’s gums each night, or give them a cool teething ring to suck on. On days when the teething pain gets extremely bad, you can consult with a doctor and get a dodge of over-the-counter medicines to help with the pain. But medicating your baby daily is not recommended, so follow the dosage prescribed by the doctor precisely.

Final Thoughts

All in all, babies are capable of getting a full 12 hours of sleep at night without eating, but we all know that most of them will not do so. For one reason or another, babies may wake up from their sleep. As the infant’s brain develops as they grow, they learn to form associations and learn sleeping habits.

These associations can be developed out of a consistent bedtime routine. If they wake up in the middle of the night and see these things, they will know that it is time to sleep. It may include a switched-on night lamp, a blanket or toy specifically meant for cuddling when asleep, and the like.

Forming associations can greatly help babies self-soothe themselves back into sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Sleep Should a 10-Month-Old Baby Be Getting?

Ideally, a baby of ten months should get 14 hours of sleep in a day. This includes both daytime and nighttime sleep. Do not let your baby nap for more than 3 hours in the day, while night sleep can last for 10-11 hours. Sleep time is very important for babies, and unlike high-functioning grown-ups who can survive on very little sleep, not sleeping enough can put the baby’s health at risk.

Is My Baby Teething or Going Through the 10-Month Sleep Regression?

Teething can cause sleep regressions in babies, but it is usually accompanied by many other symptoms such as excessive drooling, extreme fussiness, chewing on whatever they lay their hands on, swollen gums, rashes, etc. If you notice these symptoms, along with a disturbed sleep pattern in your baby, then it is a teething problem. Consult with a doctor about this. But in the absence of any teething problems, sleep regression is the likely culprit behind the sudden change in your baby’s sleep habits and mood.

Can I Take Steps to Prevent a Sleep Regression Phase?

Unfortunately, there is not much that you can do to prevent sleep regression. The onset of such a phase does not happen at a fixed time in all babies, as some may go through it at 6 months or 8 and 10. And to be fair, there is no need to stop this thing from happening as it is a normal part of infant development.

The only thing that you can do is follow a consistent routine for your baby and give them food, bath, playtime, cuddles and sleep at a set time every day. This will help them to develop sleeping habits, and it will be easier to put them to sleep.

How to Put My Baby to Sleep?

There are several ways in which you can help your baby fall asleep but no ideal method because the temperaments of each baby vary. What you can do is create a relaxing environment that makes them comfortable enough to fall asleep. This may include a warm bath, caresses on the head, light music, the voice of their parents singing, and gently rocking them until they look drowsy. Remember to gently lower them into the cradle as they are still in the process of falling but slightly awake.

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Baby & Toddler Care

What to Do Immediately If Your Baby Fell off the Bed

What to Do Immediately If Your Baby Fell off the Bed

Don’t you think having a baby is a joyful experience? Because baby brings a sense of joy and excitement to everyone around them. But at the same time, when these curious little explorers achieve the milestone of walking around or start rolling, there is a possibility they may fall off the bed.

It is not uncommon for babies to fall off the bed or risk falling on the floor despite all your efforts. One of the common situations that every new parent faces is the fear of a baby falling off the bed.

In this blog, we will highlight the right course of action if the baby falls off the bed. We will also be covering the signs of concern and what remedy you can use at home to pacify the kid in case they encounters an incident like this.

The Primary Course of Action if The Baby Fell Off the Bed

The Primary Course of Action if The Baby Fell Off the Bed

As per the US Center for Disease Control, head fall is one of the common reasons for nonfatal injuries in kids.

One of the biggest dilemmas parents have is understanding the intensity of the injury, especially when the infants and kids cannot talk.

While the injury that a baby incurs doesn’t need to be always fatal, you cannot brush it under the carpet. As a vigilant parent, you should know the signs that can be dangerous for the baby and what should be your next move, in case the injury is worrisome.

In the next segment, we will be focussing on these aspects.

1. Stay Calm

The first thing is to stay calm and not panic. A sudden outburst of emotion can negatively impact the baby and may make the little one cry more.

So stay calm and try to alleviate the kids. Simultaneously, you should also check their skull for any sign of injury. Allow the baby to rest for some time.

Use an ice pack if you notice any swelling. Try to divert the baby’s mind by taking them out in the garden or shifting their attention to their toys. This will give you time to closely examine the baby and notice any sign of injury.

2. Judge the Fall

Once you have pacified the baby, your next move should be to check the height from which the baby has fallen. It will help you identify whether or not the fatal injury is probable.

A 3- 5ft fall can be dangerous, especially when the baby is less than 2 years of age. This situation can be alarming if the baby has fallen onto a hard surface.

You should be closely looking at the baby. At the same time, you should also check for signs of injury in the baby.

Check their head and other parts of the body. You may need to see a doctor if you notice any swelling signs.

3. Check the Baby

As we have mentioned above, you should check the baby for the probable sign of injury. You should call the doctor if you notice any of the following signs:

  • Baby is vomiting post-injury
  • Blood or fluid excretion from the nose or ears
  • Baby is unconscious
  • Baby is having a seizure
  • Dent or swelling on the head

Make sure you do not ignore these signs, especially if the baby has seizures or doesn’t gain consciousness.

4. Does the Baby Have Broken Bones

We hope you never encounter any such situation as a parent, but preparedness is the only way to ensure your baby’s well-being.

Knowing the signs of danger will help you take the right action at the right time, thus ensuring the complete safety of your baby. Here are the signs that your little one may have a broken bone after having a fall:

  • Swelling
  • Trouble in moving the limb
  • Paleness
  • Pain when you touch the limb

If you notice this in your baby, you should not ignore it and immediately seek the doctor’s assistance.

Ignoring the pain may lead to increased inflammation and sometimes fever.

5. Signs of Concussion

If the baby has fallen on its head, it may lead to a concussion. This may be a minor injury, but sometimes it can be a major issue. Hence, the experts advise you to check on a few signs related to the concussion that might indicate that your baby might have suffered.

Hence, here are a few signs that you should check for concussion-like:

  • The baby was unconscious for sometime
  • Vomiting
  • Baby is crying more than usual
  • Mood swings

The concussion might alleviate in some time, or it may take a few weeks based on the intensity of the injury.

The Probable Signs of Injury when The Baby Falls Off the Bed

Type of Injury Description
Bumps or Bruises Discoloration of the skin, signs of a wound on the skin
Fracture Broken limbs or collarbones
Cuts Scrapes or small cuts if the baby falls on sharp objects
Head Injury Concussion, bumps or swelling, or redness on the head
Soft tissue injury Sprain in the muscles or ligaments
Internal Injury Sometimes you may not see the physical sign of injury, but there can be an internal injury, like damage to the internal organ in case of a severe fall.
Dislocation Joint dislocation, especially around elbows or shoulder
Emotional Distress The kid may show signs of anxiety and excessive fear.

These are common signs of injury, but they are not limited to this. Based on the intensity of the fall or height of the fall, the injury may vary.

Hence, it is important to keep a close check on the baby when it falls, look for alarming signs like the one mentioned above, and seek medical attention if required.

In addition, it is also important to take necessary preventive measures to ensure the complete safety of the kids.

Effective Ways to Prevent Baby to Fall Off the Bed

1. Use Bed Rails

Use Bed Rails

One of the safety measures that, as a parent, you mistake is to use bed rails. Once the kids start rolling, they are prone to falling off the bed.

Installing bed rails or choosing a bed of a lower height can prevent such a mess from happening.

Obviously, we cannot ignore the factor of timely Vigilance and regular check on the baby while they are sleeping.

Best Bed Rails for Child’s Safety

2. A Safe Co-Sleeping Space

A Safe Co-Sleeping Space

If you prefer to sleeping with your baby, it is important to create a safer space for the little one.

Make sure they have ample area to move around, and their bed should be placed so that it is not too high from the ground.

Also, you should prevent the baby from sleeping on the edge. Adding cushions and soft pillows around the baby is another potential way to prevent falls.

Make sure that the baby’s bed is placed against the wall. This will create a barrier and prevent the fall while the baby sleeps.

3. Invest in a Good Quality Baby Sleeping Bag

Invest in Good Quality Sleeping Bags

Yet another effective way of ensuring the complete safety of your kids is to use the best quality sleeping bag.

The size of the sleeping bag should not be too small or too big. It must be apt and should be as per your baby’s age. Also, make sure that the sleeping bag is secure and hypoallergic.

Top Recommended Sleeping Bags for Your Babies

4. Supervise the Baby

Supervise the Baby

Regularly checking babies’ movement is imperative, especially when they have recently learned to crawl, walk, or have started rolling on the bed. Since the little ones cannot talk and communicate, regular checks on their movement can prevent any mishap.

5. Transition to Toddler Bed Safely

Beds for Toddlers

If you think that the baby is ready to shift from the clips or a basin, it’s to a toddler bed, and you should invest in the right kind of toddler bed.

They must be of a lower height, and adding bedrails around them or securing them with pillows is important. This will prevent any probability of falls or injury to the baby.

Best Options to Choose Your Toddler Beds From

6. Do Not Leave the Baby Unattended

Do Not Leave the Baby Unattended

You must always keep a check on the movement of the baby. Do not leave them and attend for long.

Even if you are engaged in some work, make sure that you keep a regular check on the baby. Even if they are sleeping, you must ensure the area is safe and secure.

7. Create a Safe Play Area

Create a Safe Play Area

It would be best if you always focused on creating a safe play area for your kids while playing.

Sharp objects or toys can lead to injuries. Moreover, you should also invest in anti-skid rugs and maths to prevent any falls or accidents while the baby is moving around.

8. Keep the Bed Clean

Keep the Bed Clean

When putting the baby to sleep, you should ensure that the bed is clean; it should not have any toys or other small objects that can probably lead to some injury.

Also, make sure that the quality of the bed sheet is good; it must be soothing and provide complete comfort to the little one while they are sleeping.

Wrapping It Up

All in all, to prevent such accidents in the future, it is imperative to secure the place where the baby is sleeping or flame.

This brief discussion is on the key steps a parent must take if their baby falls off a bed.

Ignoring the Warning signs like the one mentioned above can hurt the overall development and health of the baby.

Head injury can be fatal and may show its effect after a few years as well. in case the baby has fallen off a bed or has encountered an injury.

Vigilance and childproofing the surroundings are the keys to minimizing the risk of falsehood.

Moreover, a parent it should ensure a safe environment for the little one to grow and explore without getting injured.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do if The Baby Falls Off the Bed?

If the baby falls off the bed, the first thing that you should do is check the baby and pacify them. The little one might get terrified and cry incessantly.

Hence, your first move should be to calm down the little one and check for the science of injury if you know any visible signs like swelling or redness of an Inflammation.

If the injury doesn’t subsidize within a few hours or a day, you should see medical advice.

If My Baby Falls Off the Bed While Sleeping, Should I Wake the Baby?

If the baby has fallen off the bed while sleeping but appears to be found, you can allow the baby to sleep.

However, you must keep a close chat if there is any injury. If you notice any probable sign of wound, swelling, or redness and the baby has vomited, you should immediately seek medical attention.

What Are the Signs that Show Immediate Medical Attention When The Baby Falls?

When the baby falls off the bed, and you notice That the baby is unconscious or if the baby throws, if you notice that the baby is irritated or is continuously crying, it is a sign that the injury might be serious. It would be best if you spoke to your doctor immediately.

How Can I Prevent My Baby from Falling Off the Bed?

As a parent, you may be highly vigilant when it comes to the safety of your kids. Despite this, sometimes the baby may fall off the bed or may enjoy themselves while playing.

For example, you must use soft pillows beside the bed and secure the spot where the baby sleeps. Consider using batteries or a safe crib or bassinet for babies.

What Is the Right Age to Transition a Baby from Crib to a Toddler Bed?

One of the dilemmas that parents often face is the right time to transition a baby from the gripped to a toddler bed.

Firstly, a toddler bread especially designed for kids to ensure a safe sleeping space. If you are also planning to do the same, you can transition a baby from a crib to a toddler bed between 18 months and 3 years.

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Baby Care

Eye Color Prediction Chart – To Know Your Baby’s Eye Color

Eye Color Chart: What Color Eyes Will Your Baby Have

Are you expecting the baby to pop up anytime soon now? And you cannot stop wondering what he or she looks like. If you are expecting a baby, it is very natural to think about how your baby will look and what kind of hair, skin, or eyes your baby will have.

Especially in the last few months, the anticipation and curiosity have been really strong. There are several questions in the mind of parents-to-be, and one most common one is, whose eye color baby will inherit- mothers or fathers?

Well, there is no definite answer to any of your questions, but the good news is you can get a hint of what color eyes your newborn baby will have when he or she is born with the help of this eye color chart.

What is an Eye Colour Chart?

What is an Eye Colour Chart.jpg

Eye color refers to the color of the iris, which differs from baby to baby. Eye color highly depends on the genes the baby inherits from its parents. So, it is quite impossible to know with total certainty which color eyes the baby will have, but there are ways to make some fair predictions. An eye color chart helps predict the color of the eye of the baby based on the parent’s eye colors.

As the baby inherits 50% of eye color genetic material from both parents, the eye color of the baby can be calculated from the eye color of the parents. This is a simple grid chart where the eye color of both parents is entered in two columns, and based on it, the probability of the child having blue, green, or brown eyes is provided.

baby eye colour predictor chart

Here, you will see different combinations of eye sets of parents of brown, blue, and green colors on the left side and the probabilities of a baby having a specific eye color on the right.

Interpretation of Baby Eye Colour Chart

  • If both parents have blue eyes, there is a 99% chance that the baby will be born with blue eyes.
  • If both parents have brown eyes, there is a 75% chance that the baby will have brown eyes as well, with a possibility of 18% of the baby having blue eyes.
  • When both parents have green eyes, there is a 75% chance of the baby having green eyes but a good 25% chance of the baby being born with blue eyes.
  • When one parent has green and the other has blue eyes, the probability divides you 50-50% for each. In such a case, which gene among the inherited ones dominates will decide the color of the eyes.
  • There is the same situation as above when one parent has blue eyes and the other has brown; there are equal chances of a baby having any of these two eye colors.
  • Though, it’s not the same when a parent has green eyes, and another has brown. As brown is a dominant color, the chances of a baby having brown eyes are 50, and the rest divides between green and blue.

Limitations of Baby Eye Colour Chart

  • This eye color chart does not take into consideration different eye colors other than brown, green, and blue. Each DNA is unique and can form shades of colors.
  • It does not accurately work in cases of complex inheritance. For example, according to this baby eye color chart, two blue eyes parents cannot have a brown eye child; however, if one of the parents inherits the genes of a brown eye parent of their own, it is still a possibility that the baby inherits brown eyes.
  • Hazel eye color is still a mystery that cannot be solved with the help of this chart as this shade is a mixture of brown, green, and blue color.

How are Eye Colours Formed?

How are Eye Colours Formed

Eye color is formed by a combination of pigments produced in the layers of the iris; each layer is called a stroma. There are majorly three types of pigmentations.

  1. Melanin– It is a yellow-brown pigment that is also responsible for determining skin tone in babies.
  2. Pheomelanin– It is a red-orange pigmentation that is responsible for red hairs in humans. This pigment is found in people with green and hazel eyes.
  3. Eumelanin– This pigment decides how intense the color will be. It is a black-brown pigment that is found in dark-colored eyes.

The combination of these pigments decides the shade of the eyes. It can fall anywhere on the spectrum of dark to light. The eye color of a newborn is related to the skin tone. White babies tend to be born with blue or grey eyes because of less melanin, and black, Asian, or Hispanic babies have black or dark brown eyes. So now you know what plays a role in that baby blue or dreamy brown eyes!

Here are some fun eye color facts:

  1. Between 55% to 75% of the total people in the world have brown eyes.
  2. Only 8 to 10% of people have blue eyes.
  3. Very surprisingly, only 2% of the total world population have green eyes, making it the rarest eye color.

How Does Genetics Determine Eye Colour?

How Does Genetics Determine Eye Colour

Not only does parents’ eye color matter in determining the color of a baby’s eyes, but also if parents are homozygous or heterozygous dominant for a specific eye color and if the parent’s genes are dominant or recessive. Let’s understand this in detail.

1. Homozygous and Heterozygous

Every human takes birth with two copies of each gene, one from the mother and the other from the father. When these two copies of each gene match or are very similar, it is called Homozygous. It dominates that particular trait in the newborn ( eye color in this case). And when the two copies are different from each other, it is recessive and is called Heterozygous. The genes inherited by a child can be dominant genes or recessive genes.

Which Leads to Two Types of Eye Colour

Dominant Eye Colour

Brown and Green are the dominant eye color. This means that If the eye color of both the parents is the same, either brown or green, there is a 75 to 90% chance that the baby will be born with the same eye color as the parents.

Recessive Eye Colour

Blue is a recessive eye color. This means that the chances of a baby having a different eye color from the parents are very low. Your baby won’t have blue eye color if you and your partner both have brown eyes.

2. Genotype

Genotype is a combination of genes in DNA that are responsible for each unique trait and characteristic of a human. There is a different genotype for each trait, like height, skin, color, and eyes. In this case, the father’s and mother’s genotypes will decide the eye color of their children.

3. Phenotype

Genotype defines Phenotype; it is a visible trait like hair color, blood type, height, or eye color. It is a result of the kind of genotype a human has.

Taking Care of Your Baby’s Eyes

Taking Care of Your Baby's Eyes

No matter what color, those delicate and beautiful baby eyes require the best possible care. Take extra precautions in the first few months after the birth of the baby to keep his or her eyes clean and safe. It is normal if you notice a little discharge from your newborn eyes for the first few months. Clean it gently while bathing the baby, do not wash or wipe the eyes all the time with a tissue or a washcloth.

Secondly, do not give sharp toys or objects to the baby to play with because newborn babies have zero muscle control. If a sharp object hurts those little eyes, the damage is irreversible. Lastly, pay close attention to your baby’s eye alignment; some squinting or misalignment is normal in the initial months, but if that persists after 6 months of age, consult a pediatrician.

What Eye Colour Says About Baby’s Personality

It may sound surprising to you, but yes, some extended studies and research have related colors and patterns of the eyes with personality traits. The color of the eye, patterns of the crypts, which are detailed treads that surrounds the pupil, and the contraction furrows, which are the lines that curve the outer edge of the human eye, can predict a person’s character. This is because the genes which are accountable for the development of the iris in a baby also play a role in shaping the frontal lobe of the brain, which forms a person’s personality. Here are a few derivations of what psychology studies say.

What Eye Colour Says About Baby's Personality

  1. People with dark-colored eyes are more pleasant and compliant.
  2. People with extremely dark eyes are good at target-hitting sports like archery or darts.
  3. People with densely packed crypts are more warm-hearted and tender and can be trusted.
  4. Mothers with light-colored eyes tolerate pain and stress better. It is also seen that light-eyed mothers tolerate pain pretty well during childbirth.
  5. People with more contraction furrows are more impulsive and are more likely to give in to cravings.

Various research and advanced studies are going on every day to know more about the formation of color in infants’ eyes and what it says about their personalities.

Conclusion

In short, predicting your child’s eye color with help from this eye color chart is a fun way to keep the guessing game on, but not definite. You may or may not want your child to have a specific eye color, but there is nothing much you can do to decide the eye color of a child other than contribute to your genes.

We understand your curiosity and excitement to know everything about your unborn baby but trust us; there is no way you can comprehend your tiny miracle by mere calculations.

No matter what color eyes your baby will have, there will be nothing more surreal than the feeling of looking into those when you finally hold your newborn in your arms!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Eye Color Charts and Calculators Always Right?

No, there are various limitations to this eye color chart or any calculator you may find online. Eye color is formed by not a single gene but by a set of different genes, and no calculations can tell what genes your baby will inherit exactly.

Can a Baby Have Two Eyes of Different Colors?

It is not normal when the baby is born with two different colors of irises; this condition is called heterochromia. It usually has no side effects, but in some cases, it may lead to trauma or a medical condition called Horner’s Syndrome or Waardenburg syndrome. It is recommended to consult a pediatrician or an ophthalmologist if your baby has different-colored eyes.

Can the Color of Your Baby’s Eye Change After Birth?

Yes, the color of your newborn baby’s eye changes noticeably during their first few months, and they only get a permanent color once they are a year old. The eyes generally turn into darker shades because of the increase in melanin synthesis. It will not happen at once but rather gradually.

Can the Color of a Baby’s Eye Change from Brown to Blue After Birth?

No, if your baby has blue eyes at birth, they may eventually turn brown or hazel because eye color usually shifts from light to dark and not otherwise. So if your kid is born with brown eyes, it is very unlikely that it will turn blue, and you can do nothing about it.

Can Both Blue-Eyed Parents Have a Brown-Eyed Child?

Yes, it is possible. If both the parents have blue eyes, but one of the four grandparents has brown eyes, it is a possibility that the trait is passed down in genes to the baby.

Are Blue Eyes More Sensitive to Light?

When eyes are very sensitive to sunlight or fluorescent lights, the condition is called photophobia. Usually, this is caused in people with Light-colored eyes because they have a very low amount of pigmentation in the layers of their eyes.

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Baby Care

How Development Leap Creates an Impact on Babies Sleeping?

Developmental Leaps, Settling and Sleep

Babies are the cutest things that have ever happened to a family. Just like an average human being, a baby also needs people’s care to grow efficiently. Sometimes you have to require a fixed routine to take care of them.

Babies require a lot of sleep, but there’s a time when they don’t want to sleep anymore. They wake up early and often don’t take proper naps.

As a result, they stayed awake the entire morning and felt sleepy in the afternoon. All this happens because of developmental leaps.

Developmental leaps not only lead to shorter sleep but also cause changes in babies’ mood and health.

However, it’s not a negative thing at all. In this blog, you’ll learn all about baby leaps and their impact on their sleep.

You’ll also discover a few tips and remedies during that period. It may guide you to improve the sleep schedule of your baby.

What is Developmental Leap?

According to so many health experts, a development leap is a time when a baby’s life is evolving.

In this period, a baby learns new skills or generates excitement for it. Apart from that, the babies finally learn to walk, crawl, and roll.

In a word, they are finally able to coordinate their hands and eyes. This is also recognized as a major development.

So, there’s no need to worry if your child is going through baby leaps. Some doctors suggest that the period of developmental leaps begins around five weeks of age.

In his period, they also suffered a little bit of tiredness and lack of sleep.

At this time, your baby may achieve cognitive changes that lead them to grow their physical health. It also helps them in the process of mental development.

A few health experts acclaimed that in the first two years, a baby might experience an intense mental leap. It is interconnected with their age, not their date of birth.

The positive thing about developmental leaps is that it helps your child to be aware of their surroundings.

It helps them to connect with the world that exists around them. A few doctors call this period the ‘wonder weeks.’

How to Identify the Baby Leap

Recognizing the baby leaps isn’t a very difficult task. At this time, a lot of things are running in a baby’s mind.

They started growing effectively both physically and mentally. There are a few signs that can help you to identify the occurrence of a development leap.

It may include the following.

1. Mood Change

Babies often experience sudden mood changes during developmental leaps. It may include crying, crankiness, and clinginess.

At this period, you may notice an alteration in your baby’s temper. It’s not an extraordinary thing; it’s quite normal.

A few parents may feel anxious or depressed about the sudden change in their baby’s mood. However, there’s no need to worry about it.

During the development leap, the baby tries to connect with their surroundings. If you notice your baby is crying more than normal, don’t panic!

It may not last longer. You can consult a child specialist near you.

2. Alteration in Health

Not only in the moods but a sudden alteration in health is also observed among the babies in this period.

A baby may catch a cold, and then it may cause them a little bit of cough. All this is happening because of the leap period.

However, if your child is facing extreme colds or coughs, don’t hesitate to consult a health expert. Apart from a cold or cough, a baby may catch teething issues.

Besides these, the child can also face an infection in the ear. It’s all because of their physical and mental growth. Take proper medication to protect your babies in this development leap period.

3. Fuzzy Feeding

Another major sign that is baby is going through a leap period is fuzzy feeding. It means your baby wants to be fed more or less than the average time.

They may not take their meals in their times as per their daily routines. However, this situation is short-term and doesn’t last long among the babies.

You may notice while feeding; the baby gets easily distracted. Apart from that, they consume less milk and more snacks.

As their mental leap is also developing, the babies prefer solid food more than liquid ones. So, in this period, you must ensure that your baby is having a proper meal or not.

4. Eagerness to Learn New Skills

Another major sign that can help you to recognize the baby’s leaps is their eagerness to acquire new skills.

As mentioned, the physical and mental leap started to grow among the babies in the first two years. Thus, they want to smile and coordinate their eyes with their hands.

A baby learns to crawl, roll, and walk. They want to hold objects, such as toys and spoons, during this period. It’s a positive sign that indicates their effective physical growth.

A baby also starts to talk with so much eagerness. You may also notice a sudden improvement in their voice and pronunciation.

How Does It Affect a Baby?

How Does It Affect a Baby?

Generally, the development of the leap period affects the babies in their sleeping schedule. The babies face a few difficulties during their sleep.

As a result, they get tired easily. However, these situations are temporary.

Here’s a list of things that are caused by baby leaps.

1. Sleep Difficulties

The first thing that your baby suffers during the development period is lack of sleep. During this period, their mental leap started to grow.

As a result, they want to connect with their surroundings and the world. It led them to sleepless times. At night, they don’t feel comfortable sleeping.

No matter how hard you try, you may not put your baby to fall asleep at night. It occurs frequently, especially during this development leap period.

However, there’s no need to worry about the situation. It’s temporary, and the difficulties may be reduced after 20 months.

For excess situations, don’t be afraid to consult your doctor.

2. Excess Level of Walking at Night

As their physical and mental growth starts occurring, the babies become so eager to master the new skills they learned.

It may include walking, crawling, and rolling. As mentioned, in this period, the baby face difficulties falling asleep.

Thus, they wake up suddenly at night numerous times. At this time, a baby started to crawl or walk instead of sleep.

In this scenario, you must consider a suitable sleeping solace for your baby.

In addition, don’t forget to ensure that the baby is receiving adequate comfort or not. It may assist you in keeping your baby on their bed for a long period.

3. Short Sleeping Period

The sleep difficulties and the sudden waking up from bed decrease their sleeping time. As a result, their sleeping period is affected.

This is one of the most important situations that your kid suffers during the development leap period. If it’s occurring regularly, consult your doctor for better remedies.

Aside from that, try to provide your child with a comfortable vibe so that their sleep might not get hampered. Your baby may face separation anxiety during this time.

Not only that, they may feel upset, and that can lead them to have a short sleeping period. All human beings require adequate sleep, even babies.

4. Tiredness

All the impacts caused by the development period are interrelated with each other. Correspondingly, the short sleep leads them towards tiredness.

Lack of sleep generates tiredness among all human beings, even babies. If they feel tired, they may not grow effectively.

As a parent, try to maintain a perfect balance on it. Make sure your child is getting a balanced sleeping schedule. It may help them to get rid of tiredness.

Also, in this stage, the baby acquires physical milestones and wants to walk and play with toys as much as possible, which leads them toward tiredness.

5. Feeding Difficulties

Not only during sleep, but the babies also face complications while consuming their meals. As their mental leaps reach the development stage, the babies want to consume more solid foods than milk.

Apart from that, their hunger level decreases, and it leads them toward fuzzy feeding. Sometimes, they consume their meals at an excess level and a few times less than usual.

The less amount of meals leads them towards sleeping difficulties and tiredness. A human needs a proper meal to grow effectively.

It goes the same for the babies. In this case, as a parent, you are required to provide them with a balanced meal.

Sleep Remedies During Developmental Leap

Sleep Remedies During Developmental Leap

Here are some possible remedies that you can adopt during the baby leaps.

1. Don’t Panic

The greatest way to help your babies during the development leap is just to stay calm. At this time, the baby started to grow their physical and mental health positively.

It’s a positive sign, and your toddler is learning good things. Try to maintain a daily routine as much as possible.

It may help you to enhance the sleeping time of your baby. In addition, it may also reduce the chance of waking up early. The leap period is temporary, and it won’t last after two years.

2. Create a Pleasant Sleeping Environment

It’s normal that the sleeping schedule of your baby might get disrupted during the development leap.

Thus, at this time, try to provide a suitable sleeping environment for your baby. You can turn on some toddler nursery music to make your babies fall asleep.

Along with that, you may buy some toddler’s story or rhyme books and read them gently till your infant falls asleep.

You should add this activity to your daily routine for almost two years until the leap period is over.

Also, add a fragrance to your room that may help the baby to fall asleep quickly and peacefully.

3. Keep Your Baby in Touch as Much as Possible

During this period, the baby grows their mental and physical leap rapidly. They started crawling, walking, and rolling down frequently.

In this case, try to keep your baby in touch as much as possible. It ensures them that they are not alone and you’re connected with them.

Try to connect with your baby through skin-to-skin touch. Apart from that, try to sleep close to your baby and keep a hand on their belly or head.

The closer you are to your babies, the more their sleeping schedule will be improved.

4. Ensure Adequate Feeding

Sometimes, a baby fails to sleep because their stomach isn’t full. They haven’t consumed their meal properly.

In this case, you must consider whether your baby is consuming a meal adequately or not. This can also be the reason for lack of sleep.

In this period, as babies grow their mental leap, they want to consume more snacks than liquid ones.

So, you must bring a well-designed plate that has a watermark of your favorite snack. It can help you to feed your baby peacefully.

Besides these, try to sit in a place where your baby feels more comfortable and enjoys their meals.

Summing It Up

All in all, the development leap period is quite a difficult time not only for the babies but also for the parents.

However, the period doesn’t have any negative impact at all. It is a sign that your baby is evolving. While the baby leaps, a baby develops a physical and mental leap.

As a result, they started to learn new activities, such as walking, talking, crawling, and so on. It may create excitement for them, and they find it difficult to sleep.

So don’t panic and take a few remedies. It may include ensuring proper feeding and enabling a proper sleeping environment.

Finally, in this blog, you’ve learned about the development leap and its impact on babies and their sleep.

If you still have got any queries, let us know in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Development Leap Last on Babies?

In general, the development leap period lasts for 20 months among babies from five weeks after birth. A few health experts also said that it could last up to two years.

What Is the Actual Effect of a Developmental Leap on a Toddler?

The actual effect caused by the developmental leap is very affirmative. It helps your toddler to grow their physical and mental milestones rapidly. It helps them to connect with their surroundings and coordinate their hands with their eyes.

Does Development Leap Have a Negative Impact on Babies?

No, the developmental leaps don’t create any negative impact on your babies. It may create a certain sleeping and feeding issue. However, those are temporary and can be cured with proper remedies.

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A Complete Guide for Melatonin in Babies

A Complete Guide for Melatonin in Babies

Melatonin is a hormone generated by the human body and is essential for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin for babies is frequently connected with sleep problems.

In this article, we will look at the importance of melatonin in newborns, its involvement in their sleep patterns, and how it may be used to help babies sleep in a better way.

Understanding the significance of melatonin in newborns and its role in regulating the circadian rhythm of sleep is crucial for parents and caregivers.

In the section that follows, we will look more closely at the elements that impact melatonin synthesis in newborns and look at measures to establish good sleep in babies.

Let’s get started!

What is Melatonin?

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland, located in the brain. It is essential for the regulation of the circadian rhythm of the body, also known as the sleep-wake cycle. 

Melatonin levels increase in response to darkness, signaling to the body that it is time to sleep. The levels of melatonin fall in the morning, helping in waking up.

Melatonin has several additional roles in the body other than controlling sleep. It functions as an antioxidant, assisting in the protection of cells from free radical damage.

Melatonin regulates other hormones and has been shown to impact a variety of physiological functions, including immunological functions and reproduction.

Melatonin pills are available without a prescription. These supplements are frequently used to treat sleep problems such as insomnia and jet lag.

Melatonin for Babies

Babies naturally produce melatonin, but its production and control are still growing throughout the first months and years of life.

If it is feasible, do not give melatonin supplements to newborns. It is advised to let the production of melatonin by their bodies mature naturally. 

Melatonin supplements for newborns should be taken only under the supervision and advice of a healthcare expert. If you are worried about the sleeping patterns of your baby, consult a healthcare professional. 

While melatonin is widely regarded as safe for short-term usage in adults, its safety and efficacy in newborns are debatable. There are a variety of non-pharmaceutical techniques that can help newborns sleep better.

These are examples of establishing regular bedtime and nap time habits, providing a pleasant sleep environment, minimizing stimulation before sleep, and generating a tranquil setting.

How Do Babies Produce Melatonin?

During pregnancy, the mother’s activity levels greatly influence the baby’s circadian rhythm. When the mother is active, the baby’s heart and breathing rate increase.

When the mother is resting or sleeping, they decrease. Maternal melatonin also crosses the placenta allowing the newborns to sleep while their mothers sleep.

The placental link, however, is severed after delivery. Melatonin may still be passed on to newborns through breast milk.

The baby’s pineal gland will be active shortly after birth, indicating that they will begin to make their melatonin.

So right after the birth of a baby, the melatonin levels are lower, which begin to increase as soon as the pineal gland starts producing melatonin naturally for the baby’s body. 

Their sleep habits may be unpredictable at first, and some newborns may suffer day and night disorientation. But gradually their circadian rhythm starts developing. 

Between the ages of 8 to 16 weeks, the circadian rhythms will begin to evolve, and they should begin to adopt more consistent sleep habits.

Importance of Melatonin for Babies

Importance of Melatonin for Babies

Melatonin’s significance for infants is derived from its function in regulating sleep-wake cycles and encouraging good sleep habits. 

Melatonin is also associated with the production of other hormones essential for the growth and development of babies. 

Let us examine its importance for babies!

1. Regulation of Sleep

Melatonin helps in the regulation of the circadian rhythm. Right after birth, the levels of melatonin in babies are lower, hence you see a distorted sleep-wake cycle in newborns. 

As the babies advance in age, the natural production of melatonin increases in the body by the pineal gland. This helps in developing a more stable sleep-wake cycle. 

It encourages sleepiness and aids in the processing of settling infants into sleep. It can help children feel calmer and help them fall asleep more quickly, making nighttime rituals easier and more effective.

It helps to promote a deeper, more uninterrupted sleep. It encourages deep and regenerative sleep by helping infants fall asleep for longer periods and lowering nightly awakenings.

2. Cognition

As a result of good sleep, the cognitive functions of the brain are better developed in babies. According to NCBI, two studies were conducted to find a relationship between infant sleep and general cognitive development. 

It was found in the first study that greater movement during sleep and greater awakening after the onset of sleep were negatively correlated with BSID-II MDI (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development second edition Mental Development Index) scores. This study was done for a group of 10-month-old infants.

Whereas, in the second study, greater sleep efficiency was correlated positively with BSID-II MDI scores, for the same group of infants. 

3. Synchronization with Environment

It helps infants synchronize their sleep cycles with surrounding involvement by reacting to natural light and darkness cues.

This synchronization with the day-night cycle might help create a regular sleep schedule.

4. General Well Being

A baby’s growth, development, and general well-being depend on getting enough go to sleep.

An infant’s health and crucial development milestones are supported by sufficient sleep, which also promotes the immune system and emotional, cognitive, and brain development.

Side Effects of Melatonin Dosage

Side Effects of Melatonin Dosage

Infants should not typically be given melatonin supplements without a doctor’s supervision since the potential adverse effects of melatonin on them have not been well investigated.

Still, here are a few things to think about, which are mentioned below.

1. Disruption in Natural Melatonin

Melatonin supplementation has been linked to disruptions in infants’ normal development and control of melatonin.

It could interfere with the capacity to manufacture melatonin and autonomously create their sleep-wake cycles.

2. Modified Hormonal Balance

Exogenous melatonin administration to infants has the potential to alter the delicate hormonal imbalance in their growing bodies. It is unclear what these disturbances will do long term.

3. Daytime Drowsiness

It is linked to feelings of weariness and drowsiness. A baby who receives melatonin during the day may become very sleepy throughout the day, which might interfere with their ability to eat, play, and go about their regular activities.

4. Digestive Problems

Melatonin consumption has been linked to complaints of gastrointestinal disorders such as cramping in the stomach, nausea, or diarrhea. Babies’ tiny stature and growing digestive systems may make them more susceptible to these consequences.

5. Allergic Reactions

Although uncommon, allergic reactions to melatonin can happen. There might be a rash, itching, swelling, or breathing problems such as symptoms. Any indications of an allergic response should prompt a rapid medical intervention.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Considering Melatonin

Things to Keep in Mind Before Considering Melatonin

It is crucial to remember that the use of melatonin supplements in infants should only be undertaken with the advice and oversight of a medical expert with pediatric sleep medicine experience.

The following considerations must be made when thinking about melatonin usage in infants.

1. Consult a Pediatrician

Before contemplating melatonin supplementation for your kid, always speak with a pediatrician or other healthcare provider with pediatric Sleep Medicine experience. Based on your newborn’s unique requirements and circumstances, they may offer tailored advice.

2. Age and Development

For newborns younger than six months, melatonin supplementation is often not advised. Because their natural melatonin synthesis is still growing, babies’ sleep habits are mostly affected by external influences at this. Using melatonin appropriately for older infants should be reviewed with a medical expert.

3. Underlying Health Conditions

Medications for your infant is taking as well as underlying medical concerns they may have, should be disclosed to the pediatrician. Melatonin may interact with some illnesses or treatments, necessitating extra care.

4. Limited Usage

Melatonin is often prescribed for your infant temporarily to treat particular sleep-related issues. Melatonin administration to newborns for an extended period has not been well explored and should be avoided.

5. Correct Dosage and Administration

If your doctor has prescribed melatonin for your infant, follow the suggested dosage and administration guidelines they have given you. Never administer melatonin over the advised dosage or without consulting a physician.

6. Monitoring

While using melatonin, keep a close eye on your baby’s behavior, sleep patterns, and any potential adverse effects. Inform your pediatrician of any changes or worries you have, and then do as instructed for a follow-up assessment.

Dosage Recommendations

Ideally, a healthcare practitioner, a pediatrician, or a healthcare provider with experience in pediatric sleep medicine should decide on melatonin dosage recommendations for infants.

Before prescribing or advising any melatonin dose, they will take into account the particular requirements and circumstances for your infant.

It’s crucial to remember that there is no suggested dosage for newborns and that neither widespread recommendations nor thorough studies support the use of melatonin supplements in neonates.

The dose, if given, will depend on elements including age, weight, sleep issues, and any underlying health disorders. Each baby’s circumstance is unique.

If your infant needs melatonin supplementation, your pediatrician will give you detailed instructions on how to administer it and how much to give.

Following their instruction and adhering to the suggested dose is essential. Therefore, it is advised to always place a priority on expert medical guidance and oversight when thinking about melatonin or any other supplements for newborns.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It does not prescribe medicines or treatments or imply drug safety or effectiveness. Consult a healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.

Conclusion

All in all, remember that treating sleep disorders in newborns is typically developing healthy sleep habits via non-pharmacological measures, such as establishing a reliable bedtime routine and a relaxing sleep environment.

Supplemental melatonin should only be taught about after great consideration and under a healthcare professional’s guidance.

In summary, melatonin is crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles and fostering sound sleep habits in infants.

Melatonin usage in newborns, however, is a complicated and unique choice that should be made in cooperation with a medical expert, such as a pediatrician skilled in Sleep Medicine.

While melatonin supplementation is typically not advised for infants, there may be certain circumstances when it may be thought for short-term usage under physician supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Melatonin Safe for Babies?

Melatonin usage in infants is not well-established to be safe. Before contemplating melatonin supplementation for newborns, speaking with a pediatrician or other healthcare provider with pediatric Sleep Medicine experience is often advised.

How Old Should Newborns Be Before Melatonin Is Considered?

Typically, supplementing with melatonin is not advised for infants younger than six months. A healthcare provider should decide whether or not melatonin should be used on older infants.

What are the Possible Adverse Effects of Melatonin in Young Children?

Its possible side effects and hazards have not been well investigated in infants. Alterations in the hormonal balance, daily sleepiness, intestinal problems, and allergic responses are of few potential complications.

Can Melatonin Aid with My Infant’s Sleep Problems?

Only under medical supervision should melatonin be used to treat sleep problems in infants. It is not a first-line therapy and should only be used after other underlying causes have been addressed and non-pharmacological methods have been attempted.

How Should Ought Melatonin Be Given to Infants?

Follow the dosage and administration guidelines indicated by the healthcare provider if melatonin is suggested for your infant. The dose will depend on several elements, including age, weight, and special demands, and it may be given as a liquid or pill.

Are there Any Melatonin Substitutes that Can Help My Infant Sleep Better?

The initial line of treatment for infant sleep problems is frequently non-pharmacological methods, such as establishing regular bedtime rituals, generating a relaxing sleep environment, and treating any underlying health problems. A healthcare expert should be consulted for more specific advice.

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A Complete Guide on Reasons for Your Baby’s Head Shaking

A Complete Guide on Reasons for Your Baby's Head Shaking

The first grin, the first time your baby chews his finger, the first time they raise their leg, and even the sweet sound of blowing raspberries are all developmental milestones that occur throughout your baby’s first year. However, if you notice your child shaking their head side by side, you can get concerned. You could think he is too young to shake his head.

Babies occasionally exhibit behaviors that make parents question if they are typical. Your initial reaction could be fear if you see that your youngster is shaking their head more than you would like them to do. That feeling when your infant does something that appears a little out of the ordinary is completely natural.

Learn the causes of your baby’s head shaking and the situations that warrant your concern.

Normal Conditions of Shaking of Baby’s Head

If you are worrying about why your newborn is shaking their head side by side, then there might be chances that this is normal. If your infant appears content and Healthy, head shaking is probably nothing to be concerned about.

To come up with potential answers, it’s crucial to take into account the precise context and characteristics of the head shaking. In other instances, children’s head shaking is just a typical stage of growth. Infants and early children may make repetitive motions, such as shaking their heads, to investigate their environment or relax. Children’s head shaking can have a variety of causes and symptoms.

Here are a few typical explanations of your baby’s head-shaking behavior.

1. Improving Motor Skills

Improving Motor Skills

Your baby’s neck muscles are put to the test when they can hold up and move the head after they have fully formed. It is a typical milestone in development. A newborn usually begins to turn their head from side to side by the end of the first one. By the age of two months, infants can raise their heads while lying on their tummies, according to the Centers for disease control and Prevention.

2. Self-Soothing

Self-Soothing

An infant suits themselves by shaking their heads side to side. It could be a healthy coping mechanism to help them relax and fall asleep. Just before your child nods off, you can observe this behavior.

3. During Breastfeeding

During Breastfeeding

Babies may move their heads to latch when nursing. One of the baby’s initial head motions may be this one. In addition to breastfeeding, they could shake their heads to show enthusiasm. You should support your baby’s head when feeding until they are three months old, even if they may support and move their head side to side.

4. Interaction and Communication

Interaction and Communication

In the first few months, babies begin to move their heads as a part of social engagement. When you’re in front of is enthusiastic, you can observe an increase in head shaking. A newborn may shake its head to communicate non-verbally. As the infant gets older, they could also start producing sounds to indicate their feelings and shaking their heads as a reflex.

How to Identify Uncommon Head-Shaking Behavior in a Child

Apart from some common reasons, some reasons might need to be identified. These reasons might be uncommon and should be treated on time to avoid any further problems in the upcoming future.

1. Aches or An Ear Infection

Aches or An Ear Infection

When they are in discomfort, some newborns will shake their heads to calm themselves. An ear infection may be the cause of sudden head shaking, especially if the infant is feverish or clutches at their ears. Doctors may recommend antibiotics to treat ear infections.

2. Epilepsy

Epilepsy

Babies and certain epileptics have myoclonic jokes. These are relatively brief seizures that result in abrupt muscular spasms. Myoclonic jokes can affect any portion of the body, although some infants may move their heads or neck as a result. Parents or other carers may not first recognize the jokes as seizures since they are so brief.

3. Autism

Autism

People with developmental disabilities who struggle with social contact, communication, or repetitive behavior tend to shake their heads involuntarily. With this disease, frequent headbanging has occasionally been noticed. In such situations, look out for these related behavioral characteristics.

4. Psychiatric Disorder

Psychiatric Disorder

When a baby’s head shaking appears uncontrollable, or when they exhibit other strange motions or behaviors, it may be a symptom of a neurological issue. For instance, rhombencephalon synapsis, A disease, results in variation in cerebrum development. Babies with neurological problems may struggle with speech, mobility, and other age-appropriate behaviors as well as developmental milestones

5. Tic Disorders

Tic Disorders

Tick disorders, like Tourette syndrome, can induce head shaking and involuntary movements or vocalizations. Most of the time, please text repeats itself throughout time. Speaking with a healthcare expert for a complete assessment and recommendations if you suspect a tech issue is crucial.

6. Anxiety or Stress

Anxiety or Stress

Children who are experiencing stress, worry, or emotional anguish may shake their heads. This behavior could appear as a nervous tick or a means to comfort oneself. The child’s general mental health, as well as possible stresses in their environment, must be taken into account.

Results of Uncommon Headshaking in Babies

These might be the results if your child is continuously shaking their head:

1. Absence of Social Contact

Absence of Social Contact

Babies that don’t engage with their parents or siblings much don’t respond to their name or other noises, have an odd look, and don’t show any interest in or reaction to smiles may need medical attention.

2. Ineffective Communication Signals

Ineffective Communication Signals

Locate in excellent health and will communicate with hands-on motions and movements. Most 7-8-month-old newborns use both pointing and noises to communicate. Babies that have autism will have poor quality and be unable to utilize gestures effectively.

3. Loss of Important Skills

Loss of Important Skills.jpg

As they grow, autistic babies will have weak language and understanding abilities. Less eye contact and social interaction are signs of this person.

4. Repeated Actions and Behavior

Repeated Actions and Behavior

Babies with autism may exhibit repetitive and odd behaviors without indicating that they are learning new things. The presence of such symptoms in your newborn should raise some red flags.

5. Headbanging

Headbanging

You should be concerned if your child continues to smash his head against the wall, his cot, or even the wall with his fists despite having bruises. When feeling anxious, he could even shake his head erratically or repeatedly for a while.

When to Consult a Doctor?

It is crucial to follow your gut and seek medical help if your child is shaking their head and you are worried about it. While a child’s occasional head shaking may be natural, there are several circumstances where seeing a doctor is necessary. It is usually preferable to err on the side of caution and make an appointment if you are unsure whether to see a doctor or not. A medical expert will be able to evaluate your child’s particular circumstances, conduct a complete assessment, and offer the necessary advice and suggestions.

Here are the key things to consider to call for an expert:

1. Frequency or Duration

It is advised to see a doctor if the head shaking occurs often during the day or last for a long time. Head shaking that occurs occasionally or briefly is less alarming, but if it develops into a habit, it might point to a deeper problem.

2. Developmental Issues

It is critical to get medical help if the head shaking is accompanied by other developmental delays or regression in milestones, such as speech, motor abilities, or social interactions.

3. Uncontrollable or Involuntary Shaking

If your child’s head shaking looks to be involuntary, or if they are unable to stop it, it may indicate a neurological problem or tic condition.

4. Other Symptoms

Pay attention to any additional symptoms your kid may be having, such as headaches, vertigo, balance issues, weakness, or behavioral changes. These extra signs and symptoms may offer crucial hints about the underlying problem.

5. Changes in Emotions and Behavior

If emotional or behavioral changes accompany the head shaking, it may be a sign of worry or emotional discomfort.

6. Genetic Problems

Suppose neurological diseases, movement disorders, or tic disorders run in your family. In that case, it’s important to be watchful and see a doctor right once you detect any strange movements in your child.

7. Sensory Difficulties or Autism Spectrum Disorder Worries

It is recommended to talk to a healthcare provider about your concerns if you think the head shaking could be connected to sensory-seeking behavior or could be an indication of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Possible Medications for Head Shaking Child Behavior

It is advised to consult a pediatrician or other healthcare professional as soon as you can if you have any worries about your baby’s head shaking or if you see any other worrying signs or behaviors. Baby’s typical development behaviors, sensory seeking behaviors, Pics, neurological disorders, and other factors are some possible regions of head shaking.

Treatment choices might be:

1. Observations

According to observation, baby head shaking can occasionally be a natural stage Of growth and may go away on its time. The doctor may advise surveillance and behavior monitoring in such circumstances.

2. Behavior Modification and Treatment

Occupational therapy and behavior modification techniques may be advised for some infants who shake their heads due to sensory-seeking behaviors or developmental problems.

3. Medications

The doctor may prescribe specific drugs if the head shaking is linked to a recognized medical disease, such as a tic disorder or neurological problem. A skilled healthcare expert would select and administer these drugs based on the baby’s age, weight, medical history, and other criteria.

4. Taking Care of Underlying Medical Conditions

An ear infection or other health disorders may occasionally be the cause of the head shaking. The head shaking could stop if the underlying condition is addressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, parents and other carers may become concerned when a baby’s head shakes. Although head shaking is frequently a typical aspect of a child’s growth and exploration of their involvement, it is crucial to address this behavior from a balanced viewpoint. Babies frequently outgrow these behaviors on their own as they mature and develop. On the other hand, chronic or regular head shaking requires prompt medical treatment, particularly when other alarming symptoms or developmental abnormalities accompany it.

It is critical not to ignore any symptoms that might point to a neurological problem or underlying medical condition. Keep in mind that each child is different, and the causes of head shaking might vary widely.

Some infants may shake their heads as part of their developmental exploration, while others may do so in response to sensory stimulation or emotional discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is My Baby’s Treatment Headshaking Normal?

Yes, it is frequently perfectly natural for newborns to shake their heads. Babies utilize shaking their heads as a technique to investigate their environment and interact with their senses in the early stages of their development. This behavior frequently declines and finally stops as kids become older and become more proficient at communicating their feelings.

What Are Some Typical Causes of a Baby’s Head Shaking?

Babies shake their heads for a variety of reasons. Typical developmental exploration, sensory seeking to enhance their senses, self-soothing behavior, or just reacting to excitement or curiosity are a few frequent explanations. However, it is crucial to seek medical help if the head shaking is continuous, uncontrollable, or accompanied by other alarming symptoms.

Can a Baby’s Head Shake from Teething?

Baby’s head shaking is not often brought on by teething. However, as newborns try to soothe themselves or relieve their discomfort, teething discomfort can cause greater movements, including head shaking.

Should I Be Concerned About My Baby’s Head Pounding When They Sleep?

Head pounding when sleeping is rather uncommon and frequently unharmful. Babies frequently use rhythmic motions to calm themselves and fall asleep. To rule out any underlying conditions, it is crucial to see a doctor if head banging is forceful, followed by an injury, or happens during waking hours.

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Child Development

5-Year-Olds Pooping in Pants? Here’s how To Handle

How to Respond to Your 5-Year-Old Starting to Poop in Pants

As your child turns 5 years, you think that the hard part of parenting is gone, but now you can finally sit back and take it a little easier. But then, your child starts messing up the pants again, and your world starts trembling all over. If you cannot comprehend the fact that all this can happen after your child has been potty trained for a while now, let us tell you that this is quite normal, and you do not need to worry much.

We can totally understand the emotional and physical turmoil you must be going through. Still, you need to take a breath and understand why your toddler is having pooping pants episodes and how to handle the situation.

So, before we tell you how you can respond to your 5-year-old in such a situation, let’s first try to understand why this might be happening.

Common Reasons for Potty Training Setbacks in 5-Year-Olds

Common Reasons for Potty Training Setbacks in 5-Year-Olds

1. Change in Place or Environment

Kids take time to adapt to new places or new environments just like us, especially to changes in bathroom settings. The change can be minor or big. Like if your child has just changed schools or daycare, or you have just moved into a new home, or you are at your vacation home for a few days. A different kind of toilet can cause potty-trained kids to hold the poop, which results in accidents later on.

Talk to your kid about what discomforts them. Take some time and spend it with your child in the bathroom to make her familiar with the new setting, it may take some days, but eventually, your child will start using the potty independently once again.

2. Ignoring the Urge to Poop

We all know that kids get entirely involved in whatever they do in all ways, mentally and physically. Be it playtime or work, they are so much into it that they keep ignoring the urge to poop; they do not like to stop in the middle of whatever they are doing and go for a poop, which may lead to accidents. They feel like missing out on playing, or that their friends will not wait, or parents will wrap everything up if they leave.

So by the time, they feel like they cannot hold it anymore, it might already be too late to head to the bathroom. You might even notice a change in behavior and physical discomfort the child is facing while not answering the poop call, you can prompt her and ask if she wants to go, and you can inform the caregiver at day school about the same so you can avoid pooping pants.

3. Constipation

If you see skid marks on your potty-trained child’s pants, it can be because of a common medical condition called encopresis or chronic constipation. In this condition, the stool becomes hard and backs up, and the liquids travel around that blockage to leak out. These leaks are not a result of your child’s laziness or wrong behavior; they really need medical attention. You may think of it as an accident at first; talk to your child about the skid marks, take note of the potty breaks, and observe the child’s behavior to conclude, only then consult a pediatrician.

Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about the child’s pooping pants situation, and they can guide you right by prescribing a proper diet and medication. Usually, a diet with a lot of fiber and an intake of plenty of water is recommended in such situations.

4. Big Life Changes

Setbacks are normal in potty training when the child is going through a life-changing situation. It can be anything like the death of a family pet, starting a new school, parents’ divorce, birth of a new sibling, or moving away from a loved one. In such situations, the child is going through an emotional disruption, and pooping pants can be the result of it, so the best you can do here is to be there with your baby and make them comfortable.

Inform the caregivers at school and daycare about the situation so that they can handle it in the same way. But while you are feeling bad for your kid, do not compromise. Continue potty training him and keep supporting him in the process. Giving your child the much-needed time to process their emotions and situations is the best thing you can do.

Even after monitoring on these aspects, if the issue still persists, the parents should consult the pediatrician to get the solution done right on spot.

How to Deal with The Potty Training Setback

How to Deal with The Potty Training Setback

The regressions of the potty training setback can be extremely tedious and time-consuming; you must be very cautious about getting the work done. It is advisable by several experts to follow a few steps to make things easier. We have jotted a few points that might help to get the job done for you.

1. Pause The Play

If your child spoils their pants every time because they don’t want to interrupt in between something, like coloring with crayons, watching a movie, or playing a game, show your child that you will wait for him. If you get an idea that they have to poop but are not going, explain to them that they can leave the things as it is, and you will make sure that no one touches the toys when he goes for a potty break, and they can resume the play just from where he left off after he is done.

This will make the child realize that using the bathroom in the middle of doing something won’t disrupt the play as much as he might assume.

2. Regular Potty Breaks

Regular potty breaks are a very important part of potty training. Plan regular potty breaks throughout the day for your kid to avoid any accidents. Have her go to the potty the first thing in the morning, especially before the child soils her pants often, like before playtime. Encourage the child to spend a few minutes on the toilet even if he does not feel like doing it before the usual accident time. Does your child usually have pooping pants outbreak after school?

Have her sit on the toilet for a few minutes after coming home. This may feel like a task at first, but with consistency, potty breaks become a part of your child’s daily routine, and you will not even have to pursue her to go after some time.

3. Appreciate Your Child on No Accidents Days

Appreciating your child is a very effective way to encourage good behavior. If you are not a fan of typical rewards like chocolates, icecreams or extra screen time, consider praising your child. It is very effective as it draws on the internal joy and pride of your kid. A child cannot take much of the nagging and lecturing you do while correcting their challenging behavior, which causes pooping pants.

On the other hand, appreciation inspires them to continue with positive behavior on their own. Be mindful of the words you use while praising your child. Do not appreciate the things the kid did not do, but appreciate the things they did right. For example, say, “You pooped in the toilet today,” except saying, “You did not poop in your pants today,” to promote positive impact.

4. Don’t Make A Big Deal Out of It

Well, it is obvious that it is a big nasty deal for you when your child starts soiling pants after you spend so much time in potty training, but your child does not need to know that. Be cool about the issue and do not shame him or keep nagging him at every instance about the accident. Because then he can see it as a power struggle, and he will be even less willing to comply with your suggestions.

Clean up pooping pants after the accident without making a big fuss about it, take his help, and make it quick. Talk about it once and let it go. Do not make the child feel like it is the biggest problem in the world that cannot be overcome easily.

5. Help to Ease Your Child’s Constipation

When your child holds in the poop too much, it may lead to constipation. This may make your child physically uncomfortable, and you may help to ease your child’s constipation in these situations. When the child is not constipated, the time and effort spent in the toilet is much less, and that encourages the child to take regular potty breaks. Water and fibrous food are two ways to ease constipation. Make your child consume plenty of water throughout the day.

You can give your child a sippy cup to carry along everywhere to encourage more water intake. Offer a portion of fiber-rich food like fruits and vegetables with every meal. If there is no improvement even after taking care of the diet, check in with your pediatrician, who can prescribe further medication.

5. Take Their Help to Clean up

If your child soils his pants regularly and does not care even a bit about it, you should make sure the kid takes up some responsibility in cleaning the mess up. You can have them dump the stool into the toilet and flush it out and ask them to wash the pooping pants under running water. Make sure to have them wash their hands with hot water and soap; you can also make them wear disposable hand gloves if required.

Only after two to three times of helping will they learn where the poop belongs, and you will notice a change. Please understand that this is not a punishment for them, but it is a learning exercise to make them understand that going in the potty is much easier and less time-consuming.

6. Avoid Anger

It is normal to feel frustrated and angry when your child keeps pooping in the pants regularly, but it is important to keep your anger in check to deal with the situation without any panic. Your reaction plays a crucial role in teaching your kid how to deal with any kind of accident in life smoothly. You are setting an example for your child, so treat him with care and respect.

If you show anger towards your child because of pooping pants, he may get scared and will not know how to react in such situations. If you find yourself feeling furious, take a few seconds to calm down and delay your reaction to the situation. Once the anger subdues, only then start the cleaning.

Summing It Up

In the end, it is all going to be ok. This is just a setback, and it won’t last forever; your 5-year-old will be going to the toilet for potty breaks once again, and there will be no more pooping pants to clean anymore. Do not stress about it much, and know that your child must also be going through an emotional turmoil as you are, so try to understand them, love them, and believe that you both can overcome it together.

You must understand the reason behind these sudden potty accidents and respond accordingly. Every child responds differently to situations, so it is important to deal with the condition and react consequently.

These suggestions may help you to deal with your 5-year-old who has started to poop in pants, but we believe that it is you who knows the best for your kid and can handle any setback in life like a star; this is just pooping pants!

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Child Development

21 Real-Life 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedules Parents Should Follow

21 Real-Life 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedules Parents Should Follow

Is your toddler almost turning 2, and you can see behavioral changes? Don’t worry when a toddler starts to grow, and you can expect him to be a little moody. Therefore, it becomes a little daunting for parents to handle their kids. Just like other changes in a toddler’s behavior, the sleeping pattern is one of the most changes that can be experienced.

A 2-year-old sleep schedule should be maintained and planned accordingly so that the kid participates equally in activities and gets enough sleep. It has been observed that some kids tend to sleep more and take 4-5 naps a day, whereas some might take one nap a day. Therefore, following a routine or pattern for a 2-year sleep schedule is quite important.

Hence, if you are also wondering how to do so, then we are here with 21 examples of a 2-year-old sleep schedule.

Importance of The Quality of Sleep

The quality of sleep is important for children’s overall health and well-being. Factors such as sleep environment, bedtime routines, and sleep associations can significantly impact a child’s sleep quality. However, implementing a consistent bedtime routine has been associated with longer sleep duration and improved sleep quality in toddlers.

Bedtime routines have also been linked to better sleep outcomes in children, including earlier bedtimes, shorter sleep onset latency, and fewer nighttime awakenings. Therefore, it is important for parents to establish consistent bedtime routines and create a sleep-conducive environment to promote good sleep habits in their children.

Top Associations that Reports that Improper Sleep Significantly Affects a Child’s Bedtime Routines:

Some Examples of 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule

Some Examples of 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule

As a kid starts growing up, the sleep schedule also starts to change. The amount of sleep a newborn toddler requires is totally different from what a 2-year-old requires. As the baby starts to grow, the day cycle changes, and the kid starts playing, learning, and eating, due to which sleep cycle and nap schedules might vary. Therefore, it is essential to build a good 2-year-old sleep schedule. Speaking of which, you might be wondering how to build a suitable 2-year-old sleep schedule, and for that, we are happy to help you.

Here is a list of 21 examples of a 2-year-old sleep schedule.

Example 1

  • Wakeup: 6:00 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM- 2:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:00 PM

Example 2

  • Wakeup: 6:00 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 3

  • Wakeup: 6:30 AM
  • Nap: 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 4

  • Wakeup: 6:30 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM-3:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:00 PM

Example 5

  • Wakeup: 6:30 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM- 3:30 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:30 PM

Example 6

  • Wakeup: 6:30 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

Example 7

  • Wakeup: 6:30 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 8

  • Wakeup: 6:45 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM-2:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

Example 9

  • Wakeup: 7:00 AM
  • Nap: 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:30 PM

Example 10

  • Wakeup: 7:00 AM
  • Nap: 11:00 AM-1:30 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:00 PM

Example 11

  • Wakeup: 7:00 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:30 PM

Example 12

  • Wakeup: 7:00 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM- 2:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:30 PM

Example 13

  • Wakeup: 7:00 AM
  • Nap: 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 14

  • Wakeup: 7:30 AM
  • Nap: 12:00 PM-2:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

Example 15

  • Wakeup: 7:30 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:45 PM

Example 16

  • Wakeup: 7:30 AM
  • Nap: 1:30 PM- 4:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

Example 17

  • Wakeup: 7:30 AM
  • Nap: 1:30 PM- 4:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 18

  • Wakeup: 7:30 AM
  • Nap: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 7:30 PM

Example 19

  • Wakeup: 8 AM
  • Nap: 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Example 20

  • Wakeup: 8:30 AM
  • Nap: 2:00 PM- 3:30 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

Example 21

  • Wakeup: 8:45 AM
  • Nap: 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM
  • Bedtime: 8:30 PM

How to Change a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule?

How to Change a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule?

Kids are very adamant while changing their old pattern to new pattern, especially when it comes to sleep. They don’t like to go out of their comfort zone and old habits and adapt to something new. Hence, it can be difficult for you to change your 2-year-old sleep schedule to a new one. Regardless of what sleep schedule you choose for your 2-year-old, there are certain things that you can follow to help them easily adapt to something new.

We have listed a few tips and tricks you can follow for changing your 2-year-old sleep schedule.

  • Some kids don’t fall asleep very easily; they become very fussy and might take an hour to fall asleep. In such cases, try to go for shorter naps. When a kid takes longer naps, it becomes difficult for them to be sleepy for bedtime. You can limit the nap time so that by bedtime, your kid is sleepy.
  • Sometimes, kids get too tired after playing, and due to this, they are not able to sleep. Yes, you heard it right, sometimes they can’t sleep because they are already very tired. To maintain so, you can get your kid to sleep a little early, just like 15 mins prior to bedtime.
  • Don’t hurry and give up in 2-3 days. Building a routine for a 2-year-old sleep schedule might take some time. Hence, make sure to follow a pattern of sleep and naps for at least 5 days. Doing this will help your kid to adapt to the new sleep cycle effectively.
  • You should not end nap time early because your kid is awake. Instead, make sure to keep him in bed and try to make him fall asleep until it’s actual bedtime. This might be a good way to teach your kids not to be awake early, or they might even fall back to sleep.

What is the Ideal Time for 2-Year-Old to Go to Bed?

What is the Ideal Time for 2-Year-Old to Go to Bed?

Sleep time can vary due to many factors like wake-up time, nap time, number of naps, and more. However, if you look closely, you can observe that all 2-year-old sleep schedules fall under 1.30 hours window, which is from 7 PM to 8:30 PM at night. We will also suggest you do the same, don’t keep your kid awake past 8:30 PM at night because it might build the wrong sleeping pattern for your kid.

Apart from this, it has also been observed that different kids have different sleep durations. Some feel good in 9-10 hours of sleep, whereas some require 13-14 hours of sleep. This sleep duration effectively affects the 2-year-old sleep schedule. Due to this, you have to plan your kid’s sleep cycle accordingly. You can push sleep time as per the sleep duration too.

For instance, a kid might need only 10 hours of sleep, and 7 pm bedtime means 5 am wakeup, which is quite early. In such case, you shift the bedtime to 8:30 pm too.

How Much Time Should a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule Include?

How Much Time Should a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule Include?

As per the data and research by doctors, it has been observed that a toddler needs a sleep duration of 11 hours to 14 hours every day. Anything falling between this range is considered healthy. However, it is not required to maintain the same during nighttime.

Only a balanced pattern of nighttime sleep and daytime naps should be followed for a 2-year-old sleep schedule. You can add 10- 11 hours of sleep at night and 1-2 hours of rest during the day. This sleep pattern can vary as per your child’s needs too.

How Long Should a 2-Year-Old Take a Nap?

How Long Should a 2-Year-Old Take a Nap?

Just like bedtime varies, so does nap time varies. A 2-year-old sleep schedule is a mix of both nighttime sleep and naps. Hence, it is advised to consider the 24-hour day cycle of your kid while planning naps. For instance, a 2-hour nap is effectively good if your kid is getting 10 hours of sleep at night. It can possibly change as per the need of the child as well.

As discussed above, some kids tend to sleep more, whereas others might sleep less. Ideally, a kid must get a 1-1:30 hour nap, but it can possibly vary as per your need.

Tips for a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule

Tips for a 2-Year-Old Sleep Schedule

Below are some tips listed for a 2-Year Old Sleep Schedule:

  • When a kid starts to grow old and especially at 24 months, there are a lot of physical and emotional changes happening. Be it teething, playing with toys, anxiety, or separation triggers, everything can change the behavior of your kid.
  • Due to this, it can be difficult for your kid to sleep peacefully at night. Your kid might sleep less, wake up frequently, and not fall asleep quickly. All these factors can be a cause of growing up, and it can make you will trapped.
  • The only way to deal with this is by staying calm and consistent. Examine factors and changes in your kid, and then make a sleep schedule for your kid. Make sure you are not being very hard on your kid while developing a habit.
  • Apart from this, another thing that has been noticed in 2-year-old sleep schedules is that kids start to resist naps. They go all ignorant and agitated when it comes to taking naps during the day.
  • As per pediatric sleep experts, it is advised to follow an everyday nap routine. No matter how much your kid resists taking a nap, try to make them sleep during the day too.
  • Doing this every day will build a habit for them, and slowly, they will slow doing that. Additionally, the ideal gap between nap time and sleep time should be 5.5 hours; it can slightly vary as per your kid’s requirements too.

Conclusion

All in all, after reading about all the concerns and factors that affect the 2-year-old schedule, you might be wondering if it is possible to train your kid to sleep accordingly. Yes, it is; with patience and persistence, you can train your kid to sleep. Make sure to follow a good 2-year-old sleep schedule that involves your kid’s sleeping pattern and needs.

Additionally, try to follow it for some days to make it a habit. Your kid might end up being a little rigid, but you have to be consistent, as sleep is one of the most essential parts of kids’ sleep. You can take inspiration from the above-mentioned examples, or you can make your own sleep schedule.

Just make sure to add a good amount of balance between sleep time, nap time, and awake time. Doing this will ensure that your kid plays well and learns better every day.

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Baby & Toddler Care

When is the Right Time to Stop Burping Your Baby?

When is the Right Time to Stop Burping Your Baby?

Are you worried about your little munchkin? Don’t have any clue about when you stop burping a baby? Well, it’s midnight, and you’ve been patting your little one on the back, and it seems like forever to make your baby burp. You are exhausted and feel like going back to bed and sleeping, but all you can do is be patient.

Burping a baby is not an easy task; it is like a game without any specified rules. When to do it? How to do it? When to stop doing it? All such questions leave you in a dilemma, isn’t it? Especially late nights like these end up giving you a hectic morning as well!

We understand how hard it can be to stop your baby burp from burping. So, we are here to help you out through this situation.

Why Do Babies Need to Burp?

Why Do Babies Need to Burp?

The answer to this question is: When babies eat or are fed, gas builds up in their stomachs that need to come out in the form of a burp to avoid discomfort and gas pain.

The gas generally comes from several sources, but the notable ones are:

  1. Air Swallowed during feeding
  2. Natural gases created by digestion

This air or gas built up inside the tummy of a baby can cause them discomfort, gas pains, or even a feeling of being full from inside. The only way in which babies can communicate is through crying in their early stages, so the pain generated from gas or discomfort can make them cry for hours if not being understood the reason behind it properly. For this very reason, people are advised to make their baby burp during or after feeding.

In her expert opinion, Dr. Cindy Gellner has shared some tremedous insights for parents, she says, “New parents may worry that their newborn will have stomach problems if she doesn’t burp after feeding. But pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner says not to worry: the air in your baby will find a way out. She explains symptoms associated with colic and spitting up symptoms and why new parents shouldn’t worry.”

In the case of breastfeeding moms, they are typically advised to make their baby burp as soon as they switch the breast, and for formula-fed babies, they are suggested to be burped after every couple of ounces they drink. Although nothing terrible will happen if you forget to make them burp but even a little discomfort to your baby can make them cry out of pain and cause the same amount of discomfort to you as well.

discomfort

Now the question arises that if your baby is not upset, then too, is there any need to make them burp? Well, the new study has stated that if there is no such case of a high level of discomfort or some gas pain in your baby even without making them burp, then there is no such need to force them to burp after every single time you feed them. After all, every baby is different, and so their ways may also differ from each other.

It is possible and completely normal that your baby’s body might have a different way of tackling the gas bubbles formed in their tummy, and then don’t get such an issue of gas pain or discomfort if not being burped after being fed. Whereas some babies might get cranky and face discomfort if not being burped after a feeding session. They may have so digestive issues that cause gas pain and ed to be burped properly. It is also suggested not to wake your baby up just to make them burp, except for some exceptional cases where you see some noticeable signs of discomfort in your baby because of not making them burp.

Difference Between Burping Breastfed Babies and Formula-Fed Babies

  • One of the biggest reasons why babies need to burp is swallowing air while being breastfed and then having discomfort due to the gas bubbles formed in their tummy. The example through which you can understand this situation clearly as an adult is when you drink a protein shake or fruit smoothie, or any other such drink with air bubbles wiped in it, or even beer or soda, it is impossible for you not to burp after drinking them. Undeniably there is a huge difference in how breastfed and formula-fed babies feed. And so it plays an important role in gas build-up.
  • Babies who are breastfed need to burp lesser as compared to formula-fed babies. The reason is that babies who feed through the breast form a good latch/seal that lessens the chances of getting in the air while feeding and so lesser chances of gas build-ups. The feeding process is natural, so it avoids fast feeding and keeps it comfortable for the baby naturally, unlike the formula-fed process.

These are some of the reasons why breastfed babies do not need to be burped as often as formula-fed babies. Again, if the case is quite dissimilar to your baby, then there is no need to worry a lot because every baby’s way is different and can’t be exactly the same as one another. There is nothing wrong if your baby needs to get burped even after breastfeeding because gas buildup totally depends on the digestive responses of your baby’s tummy. And also, the formula-fed process is not even wrong, even if your baby needs a little more help with burping after it, because every baby is different, and so is their body’s response towards the gas buildup.

What Changes Occur When Your Baby Grows Older?

What Changes Occur When Your Baby Grows Older?

The basic mechanism of the body and the digestive system does not really change, but yes, the ways get enhanced as they grow older. As your baby grows older, he or she gets conscious of when to burp and when there is no such situation as burping from within their tummy. You can stop helping your baby to burp once you notice that it is no longer necessary.

For instance:

  1. Your baby starts to move around on him/her own without any help.
  2. He or she has got his or her digestive system mature.

Now the question arises, how is independent mobility related to helping your baby to burp?

1. Self-Control Over Mobility

Having control over their own mobility, moving around themselves, is going to affect a lot on the fact that they do not need to get burped any longer.

Look at yourself! Do you need to get burped by someone else? No right! Somewhat similar goes with your babies as well. As soon as they start to move around by themselves, they do not need any help in burping; instead, they start to burp themselves when needed. But it doesn’t happen exactly similarly to them as it happens to you; it happens on a comparatively smaller scale with them.

Normally, by 4-6 months, your baby will learn to sit on his or her own, and that is going to be one of the big achievements of your little munchkin. This is going to give him or her more control over his or her ability to burp by himself or herself. But don’t expect it to happen too quickly or instantly. Like everything takes time, this also needs some amount of patience.

Not to forget, every child is different, and so you can’t compare their dealing ways with any other baby.

2. Difference in Sensitivity

As your baby grows older it starts his or her stomach gets a little tougher and inhabits the ability to handle more, unlike in the earliest stage of your baby, where every other thing has the chance to react because of the sensitivity of his or her tummy.

For instance, after 6 months, your baby will get ready for solid foods and have the proper handling mechanism. This is going to be the time when your baby’s stomach is going to be ready for purees, apple sauce, yogurt, and so he will be less prone to the gas bubbles formed in his tummy and so lesser chances of discomfort and gas pain.

When Do You Stop Burping a Baby?

When Do You Stop Burping a Baby? .jpg

The best answer to this question s it depends from baby to baby.

But normally, your baby should be absolutely ready to stop burping from 4-9 months range. Stopping giving your baby help to make him or her burp may depend on a few factors:

  • You can stop burping your baby sooner if he or she is being breastfed.
  • While it might take longer to stop burping in the case of bottle feeding.
  • If your little one is a happy eater with no such or little discomfort after eating, then you can stop burping sooner.
  • If your baby gets easily fussy after eating and faces discomfort then it might take longer to stop burping.
  • If your munchkin has excellent motor control, you can stop burping him or her sooner.
  • If your baby is less mobile as of now, then it might take you longer to stop burping.

A good way to identify when to stop helping your baby to make him burp is to conduct a little test. Don’t make him or burp after feeding, and observe how he or she deals with it, what things are happening, and what kind of response his or her digestive system is giving. Once you see him or her in discomfort, then help them burp; otherwise, you have got your answer of when do you stop burping a baby!

When Do You Stop Burping a Baby at Night?

When Do You Stop Burping a Baby at Night?

Well, that’s one of the most important questions there. Who wants to let their baby take a nap by taking a tummy full of gas bubbles and waking up in a very short period of time? None of us! So, it makes this question a really important one.

Acoording to the report by Healthline, ” When it comes to burping, every baby is different. While some babies will require treatment for acid reflux and plenty of upright time after feeds, others will release their gas before you even have a chance to burp them.”

Just as it is common for parents to make their baby burp during and after feeding the same way, it has been quite important to make your baby burp before they take their good night’s sleep. After all, the pain caused by the gas bubbles in the tummy is enough to spoil your baby’s nap routine at night. At the same time, sleeping time is one of the most delicate times for a little munchkin and one of the most crucial ones as well. Disturbing your baby’s sleep at night just for a burp may cause more discomfort to your baby.

As mentioned above, to know the responses of your baby, you must test them once and act accordingly from the following times. If your baby has turned 4 months old and has started to have independent mobility, like sitting or moving on their own, then you can take a test. You can see their response by not making them burp before their good night’s sleep. If in case you get a cranky baby with discomfort, then you have got your answer right there!

Is Burping Enough to Solving Your Baby’s Severe Gas Pains?

Is Burping Enough to Solving Your Baby’s Severe Gas Pains?

There might be times when burping won’t seem enough to help your baby with the discomfort from gas pains. In such cases, it becomes crucial for you to be well aware of the other ways that might solve his or her problem.

1. Bicycling Their Legs

All you have to do this lay your child on their back and move their legs like they are pedaling a bicycle. It can help make the way out for gas. Pooping can also help in such cases if your baby has been trying to take its way out.

2. Massage Your Baby

Baby massages can really help your baby to get rid of discomfort from gas pains. Massages enhance the circulatory and digestive systems of your baby’s body. Massage can be very calming and soothing for your baby hence relieving him from discomfort.

3. Consult Your Doctor About OTC Treatments

If the problem seems more intense and can’t seem to be solved by these remedies, then you must visit your doctor. It is very important to check with your doctor for a defined solution that is the best suited for your child’s body type. Because we all know that every child’s responses to their body’s problems are different from each other. Hence, they need to be monitored individually and properly for better and more effective solutions.

Summing It Up

All in all, there can’t be a common or single answer to this question that can be applied universally to all babies. The reason is very obvious, every baby is unique and so requires unique solutions according to their body’s responses.

On the other hand, a baby can be a happy eater with no such digestive issues or gas pain discomfort, while on the other hand, a baby can be very cranky after feeding and might face gas pain discomfort.

It entirely depends on the baby’s digestive responses, and as they grow older, they tend to become better at every aspect. But in some cases, if your baby isn’t showing much growth over the course of time, then you must visit your doctor, and you will surely find an adequate solution.

Hopefully, this blog has helped you to understand and get to know more things about babies’ bodies and to act accordingly.

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