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Sun Safety Tips for Infants, Babies and Toddlers.

5/27/2014

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Just one blistering sunburn in childhood more than doubles a person's chances of developingmelanoma later in life. According to one US study, 54 percent of children become sunburned or tanned in their second summer, versus 22 percent in their first.

"Children should not be getting sunburned at any age, especially since there are a range of very effective sun protection methods that can used," said Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation. "Parents need to be extra vigilant about sun protection all the time."

Many parents don't know the best ways to protect their young children. Below are The Skin Cancer Foundation's recommendations.

Infants

  • 0-6 months: Infants under 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun. Their skin is too sensitive for sunscreen. An infant's skin possesses little melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin, hair and eyes and provides some sun protection. Therefore, babies are especially susceptible to the sun's damaging effects.

    • Use removable mesh window shields to keep direct sunlight from coming in through the windows of your car or invest in UV window film, which can screen almost 100 percent of ultraviolet radiation without reducing visibility.
    • Take walks early in the morning before 10 AM or after 4 PM and use a stroller with a sun-protective cover.
    • Dress baby in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs.
    • Choose a wide-brimmed hat or bonnet that protects the baby's face, neck, and ears. A baby who wears a hat during the first few months will get used to having it on.
Babies

  • 6-12 months: It's now safe to use sunscreen on babies.

    • All the protection methods explained above still apply, however now sunscreen use should be incorporated.
    • Apply broad-spectrum, SPF 15+ sunscreen to areas left uncovered such as baby's hands. Many companies have tear-free formulas that won't sting baby's eyes.
    • Most importantly, sunscreen must be applied 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
Toddlers/Pre-School Age

  • Protecting toddlers from the sun requires a little more thought and effort. It is important to educate your child and caregivers.

    • Make sure your child seeks the shade between 10 AM and 4 PM. Check the outdoor area where your child plays to make sure there is adequate shade.
    • Make sure toddlers are covered. Long-sleeved, unbleached cottonclothing is cool and comfortable, while also highly protective. Clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) listing on the label offers extra security. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher.

To read more please click on the link: http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/children/sun-safety-tips-for-infants-babies-and-toddlers
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Growth & Development Milestones: 1-3 Months.

5/8/2014

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The American Academy of Pediatrics has identified important milestones for babies ages 1 month through 3 months. We've included fun and easy ways to help your newborn reach these key developmental markers, plus helpful information new parents should know.

By Catie Bielecki

Raises Head & Chest When Lying on Stomach

Type of Milestone: Physical

Practice with Baby: Give him lots of tummy time. Every time he lifts his head -- even if it's just for a few seconds -- he is strengthening his neck muscles.

Mama Must-Know: At this age, Baby might start to seem much taller and thinner. This is because his bones and muscles are growing and his limbs are loosening up.

Watches Faces Intently

Type of Milestone: Social

Practice with Baby: Buy an unbreakable mirror to hang near your baby's crib or changing table. She'll love seeing her own facial expressions and movements.

Mama Must-Know: She can now process your face as a whole, instead of just focusing on individual such as your eyes.

Smiles at the Sound of Your Voice

Type of Milestone: Developmental

Practice with Baby: Speak to him with dramatic baby talk. High-pitched, slow, and exaggerated voices are his favorite. Widen your eyes and mouth to encourage his smile.

Mama Must-Know: Baby loves your voice best because it reminds him of food, comfort, and warmth.

Begins to Develop a Social Smile

Type of Milestone: Social

Practice with Baby: "Smile-talk" with him. Sometimes he'll aim a big smile at you and even babble to catch your attention. Immediately smile back. Likewise, you can start a smile conversation by giving the first smile whenever you notice him watching you attentively.

Mama Must-Know: Your baby might be shy to meet your gaze at first, but having a smile conversation helps him from becoming overwhelmed.

Supports Upper Body with Arms When Lying on Stomach

Type of Milestone: Physical

Practice with Baby: Give him plenty of tummy time. Encourage him to lift his upper body by talking to him or holding a bright toy in front of him.

Mama Must-Know: Babies who don't spend enough time on their bellies might have a hard time learning to roll over and crawl.

Follows Moving Objects

Type of Milestone: Cognitive

Practice with Baby: Hang a bright mobile above your baby's crib or changing table. Set it at a low speed at first. As he gets better at following the objects, gradually increase the speed setting.

Mama Must-Know: At this age, Baby's eyes should be working together to move and focus. If it doesn't seem like they are, talk with your pediatrician.

Begins to Babble

Type of Milestone: Language skills

Practice with Baby: Read to your baby often. Choose baby books with bright pictures and high-contrast patterns to visually stimulate him as well.

Mama Must-Know: By listening to adults talk, Baby is learning the importance of verbal communication.

To read more please click on the link: 




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