Any parent of an active toddler has asked this question: "When should my child start wearing shoes?"
There is no clear consensus. Some parents buy shoes as soon as their baby pulls herself into a first tentative stand; others wait as long as possible, preferring not to constrict their children's feet.
"As a general rule, kids will need shoes when they are ready to start walking around outdoors," says Peggy Wells, who is both a mother and president of Pip Squeakers, a children's shoe company. "You will want something that protects your baby's feet but still allows for some flexibility," she explains.
For parents contemplating purchasing their baby's first shoes, here are some suggestions for things to consider from the experts at parentsplace.com and pipsqueakers.com:
* Make sure you get the proper fit. Shoes that are too tight or too loose could be painful or cause blisters, and may even hamper walking. Have your pediatrician measure your child's feet, during the regular check-ups. This will provide you with an accurate measurement when you refer to a shoe company's sizing chart.
* Avoid stiff, high-top leather shoes; there is no evidence that they help babies walk. Instead, look for something soft and flexible that allows your baby to use the movement of his feet to maintain balance and to walk. They should be made from canvas or some other breathable material, and have flat, flexible, non-slip soles.
* Get shoes your child likes. Pip Squeakers shoes make a pleasing "squeak" that children enjoy. "It encourages them to move, walk and explore their surroundings," says Wells, who adds that children enjoy creating the amusing sounds with each step. An added benefit is safety: the sound allows parents to more easily track the movements of their toddler and keep them within a close radius.
* Safe closures. Make sure that your baby's shoes fasten well. Double-knot laces so that they are less likely to come undone and make sure buckle straps are secure without being too tight. Velcro fasteners are the easiest option.
* It is normal to have a slight discrepancy in foot size between the two feet; you want to make sure to go with the shoe size that fits the larger foot. Allow about one-half inch of space at the end of the longest toe to the end of the shoe. The toes should be able to wiggle freely, and the heel should not slip with normal walking.
* Get the shoe that is most comfortable for your child, even if it is not the same size that the measurement device indicates. Be aware that sizing differs with each shoe company, so refer to their respective sizing charts. It is advisable to inspect the shoe fit every couple of weeks, to insure the continuing comfort of your child's feet.
Because of their unique ability to make sounds, Pip Squeakers shoes may be of interest to parents of children with disabilities who may have vision or mobility problems.
Minggu, 25 Juni 2017
Sabtu, 10 Juni 2017
What to Look For When Choosing Baby Furniture
If you're a new parent, be aware that you baby will probably spend more time in the nursery than anywhere else. So you do need to make it absolutely safe and comfortable. Make it attractive and well organized too.
To get started, decide which furniture you need. These include: cribs, crib mattresses, bassinets, cradles, Moses baskets and changing tables.
Cribs
Your child will sleep in a crib until it's time to move into a real bed (typically between the ages of 2 and 3). So choose sturdy crib that you can use every day for at least two years. New cribs sold in the United States (including all cribs sold in our Store) comply with modern safety standards. The crib should have a railing that lowers, so you can pick up your baby easily; some models have railings that lower on both sides. You'll spend $200 to $400 for a safe, well-made crib. Spending more usually buys you finer woods and more intricate designs.
Crib Mattresses
To sleep soundly and safely, babies require firm support. Consider cost, comfort, and sturdiness, as your child will probably sleep in his crib for up to three years. The first choice you'll have to make is between a foam mattress and an innerspring mattress. Be prepared to pay $60 to $100 for a foam crib mattress, and up to $140 for an innerspring crib mattress.
Bassinets, Cradles and Moses Baskets
A bassinet, cradle, or Moses basket can be a convenient and comfortable sleeping place for your baby during the first few months. Your baby may feel more at ease in the smaller, cozier space than in a crib. Plus you can carry these small portable baby beds from room to room, letting you keep a close watch on your sleeping baby. Your bassinet should have a firm mattress that fits snugly without any space around the edges.
Changing Tables
To change baby's diapers conveniently, you'll definitely need a comfortable place to do it. A changing table is most suitable for this. If you decide to invest in a changing table, there are plenty of well-designed, practical, and attractive ones to choose from. And as your baby grows, a special table can offer more security, with railings and special straps to help hold your wriggling child in place. Make sure there are safety straps to help secure your baby. If your changing table doesn't have safety straps, you should add them.
To get started, decide which furniture you need. These include: cribs, crib mattresses, bassinets, cradles, Moses baskets and changing tables.
Cribs
Your child will sleep in a crib until it's time to move into a real bed (typically between the ages of 2 and 3). So choose sturdy crib that you can use every day for at least two years. New cribs sold in the United States (including all cribs sold in our Store) comply with modern safety standards. The crib should have a railing that lowers, so you can pick up your baby easily; some models have railings that lower on both sides. You'll spend $200 to $400 for a safe, well-made crib. Spending more usually buys you finer woods and more intricate designs.
Crib Mattresses
To sleep soundly and safely, babies require firm support. Consider cost, comfort, and sturdiness, as your child will probably sleep in his crib for up to three years. The first choice you'll have to make is between a foam mattress and an innerspring mattress. Be prepared to pay $60 to $100 for a foam crib mattress, and up to $140 for an innerspring crib mattress.
Bassinets, Cradles and Moses Baskets
A bassinet, cradle, or Moses basket can be a convenient and comfortable sleeping place for your baby during the first few months. Your baby may feel more at ease in the smaller, cozier space than in a crib. Plus you can carry these small portable baby beds from room to room, letting you keep a close watch on your sleeping baby. Your bassinet should have a firm mattress that fits snugly without any space around the edges.
Changing Tables
To change baby's diapers conveniently, you'll definitely need a comfortable place to do it. A changing table is most suitable for this. If you decide to invest in a changing table, there are plenty of well-designed, practical, and attractive ones to choose from. And as your baby grows, a special table can offer more security, with railings and special straps to help hold your wriggling child in place. Make sure there are safety straps to help secure your baby. If your changing table doesn't have safety straps, you should add them.
Rabu, 17 Mei 2017
Baby Car Seats Safety - Frequently Asked Questions
In this article you will be provided with information about baby car seats and keeping your baby safe while in the car. There are tips for buying new and used baby car seats. Answers to some of the most asked questions about car seats are provided as well.
Q. What is the best baby car seat?
The best car seat is the one that matches your baby's size and weight. It also fits properly in your car and is easily installed.
Q. What types of baby car seats are available?
There are several types of baby car seats such as infant seats, front facing car seats, and convertible seats. There are also combination seats (can face front or rear), booster seats and integrated car seats. With each type of seat there are variations.
Q. Is a five-point harness or a shield safest for my baby?
A five point harness gives your child the greatest protection because it holds your baby tighter in the seat in the event of a crash. A T-Shield or over-the-head restraint allows too much room or can get in the way of chubby tummies and legs. The stalk of the T-Shield can cause serious injury to your baby.
Q. How can I find out how to safely install my baby's car seat?
All car seats (except most second hand seats) come with printed directions. If after reading the directions you still are not sure how to properly install it. You can call or email the manufacturer. Some police stations and hospitals have assistance programsas well.
Q. Is there a correct way to secure my child in the baby car seat?
Yes, there is a correct way in which to secure your child in his car seat. How you secure your baby in the car seat will likely depend on the age and size of your baby.
For children under a year of age they should be placed in rear-facing seats in the centerof the rear seat. Older children can sit facing front and their seat are generally placed behind the driver or passenger in order to utilize the shoulder/lap belts.
Q. What is LATCH?
LATCH refers to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It is a baby car seat installation system. The lower hooks are attached between the bottom of the back of the seat and seat itself. The tether piece is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip that secures forward facing baby car seats and prevents excessive movement of the baby's head in crashes.
Q. What is a Tether?
The tether is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip. It attaches to the clips on the seat and secures front facing baby car seats. In a crash it prevents excessive movement of the seat and the baby's head, reducing the severity of injuries.
Q. How can I tell when my child is ready to use car seat belts without a booster seat?
Your child will be ready for using the car safety restraint system when s/he can sitall the way back in the seat and the knees can bend comfortably over the edge of the seat. The belt crosses the shoulder between the neck and the arm and the lap belt is low and touches the thighs. Your child must be able to remain seated the whole trip.
Q. Can a baby car seat be used safely in an airplane?
Yes it can. Airlines require children age 2 and under, to be in approved car seats. The seats must be 16 inches or less to fit in the airplane seats. Call ahead and find out ifyour seat is an approved seat. Once on the plane, the hostess/es, will be able to assistyou.
Q. Is it safe for me to use second-hand baby car seats?
Yes it is safe to use second-hand baby car seats provided you do a safety check. Belts and harnesses should not be frayed or cracked. There should be no cracks or tears in the seat cover and the seat should recline easily and stay upright when the baby is seated. Look into the history of the seat, if it has been in a car crash do not buy it, its ability to safely restrain your child has been compromised. If the seat doesn't come with a manual contact the manufacturer to ensure the seat will be properly installed.If the seat is more than 5 years old do not use it, it may have been in a crash and older baby car seats may not fit in new model cars.
Q. What should I do if my baby car seat is recalled?
In most cases, the manufacturer will provide you with instructions of what to do if baby car seat is recalled. In some cases they will replace it for free they will have you bring it somewhere to get replacement parts also at no cost to you.
Q. Are there baby car seats available for children with special needs?
Children with special needs may require different restraint systems. Discuss your options with your pediatrician. Agencies such as Easter Seals have programs and information on baby car seats for special needs children.
Q. What is the best type of harness for my baby car seat?
There are four types of harnesses in baby car seats. The six-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and two at the crotch. The five-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and one at the crotch. The t-shield is a padded triangle that latches at the crotch while the overhead shield comes down from over the head and latches at the crotch also. The safest harnesses are the five or six-point harnesses. These prevent excessive movement of the baby in crash situations. The t shield and the over-head shield allow for too much room and could cause your baby to be ejected from the car in a crash.
In Conclusion
You can never go wrong if you err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby. The size and weight of your baby as well as your budget will decide what type of seat you will purchase. This article has provided you with a number of tips to keep your baby safe while riding with you in the car.
Q. What is the best baby car seat?
The best car seat is the one that matches your baby's size and weight. It also fits properly in your car and is easily installed.
Q. What types of baby car seats are available?
There are several types of baby car seats such as infant seats, front facing car seats, and convertible seats. There are also combination seats (can face front or rear), booster seats and integrated car seats. With each type of seat there are variations.
Q. Is a five-point harness or a shield safest for my baby?
A five point harness gives your child the greatest protection because it holds your baby tighter in the seat in the event of a crash. A T-Shield or over-the-head restraint allows too much room or can get in the way of chubby tummies and legs. The stalk of the T-Shield can cause serious injury to your baby.
Q. How can I find out how to safely install my baby's car seat?
All car seats (except most second hand seats) come with printed directions. If after reading the directions you still are not sure how to properly install it. You can call or email the manufacturer. Some police stations and hospitals have assistance programsas well.
Q. Is there a correct way to secure my child in the baby car seat?
Yes, there is a correct way in which to secure your child in his car seat. How you secure your baby in the car seat will likely depend on the age and size of your baby.
For children under a year of age they should be placed in rear-facing seats in the centerof the rear seat. Older children can sit facing front and their seat are generally placed behind the driver or passenger in order to utilize the shoulder/lap belts.
Q. What is LATCH?
LATCH refers to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It is a baby car seat installation system. The lower hooks are attached between the bottom of the back of the seat and seat itself. The tether piece is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip that secures forward facing baby car seats and prevents excessive movement of the baby's head in crashes.
Q. What is a Tether?
The tether is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip. It attaches to the clips on the seat and secures front facing baby car seats. In a crash it prevents excessive movement of the seat and the baby's head, reducing the severity of injuries.
Q. How can I tell when my child is ready to use car seat belts without a booster seat?
Your child will be ready for using the car safety restraint system when s/he can sitall the way back in the seat and the knees can bend comfortably over the edge of the seat. The belt crosses the shoulder between the neck and the arm and the lap belt is low and touches the thighs. Your child must be able to remain seated the whole trip.
Q. Can a baby car seat be used safely in an airplane?
Yes it can. Airlines require children age 2 and under, to be in approved car seats. The seats must be 16 inches or less to fit in the airplane seats. Call ahead and find out ifyour seat is an approved seat. Once on the plane, the hostess/es, will be able to assistyou.
Q. Is it safe for me to use second-hand baby car seats?
Yes it is safe to use second-hand baby car seats provided you do a safety check. Belts and harnesses should not be frayed or cracked. There should be no cracks or tears in the seat cover and the seat should recline easily and stay upright when the baby is seated. Look into the history of the seat, if it has been in a car crash do not buy it, its ability to safely restrain your child has been compromised. If the seat doesn't come with a manual contact the manufacturer to ensure the seat will be properly installed.If the seat is more than 5 years old do not use it, it may have been in a crash and older baby car seats may not fit in new model cars.
Q. What should I do if my baby car seat is recalled?
In most cases, the manufacturer will provide you with instructions of what to do if baby car seat is recalled. In some cases they will replace it for free they will have you bring it somewhere to get replacement parts also at no cost to you.
Q. Are there baby car seats available for children with special needs?
Children with special needs may require different restraint systems. Discuss your options with your pediatrician. Agencies such as Easter Seals have programs and information on baby car seats for special needs children.
Q. What is the best type of harness for my baby car seat?
There are four types of harnesses in baby car seats. The six-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and two at the crotch. The five-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and one at the crotch. The t-shield is a padded triangle that latches at the crotch while the overhead shield comes down from over the head and latches at the crotch also. The safest harnesses are the five or six-point harnesses. These prevent excessive movement of the baby in crash situations. The t shield and the over-head shield allow for too much room and could cause your baby to be ejected from the car in a crash.
In Conclusion
You can never go wrong if you err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby. The size and weight of your baby as well as your budget will decide what type of seat you will purchase. This article has provided you with a number of tips to keep your baby safe while riding with you in the car.
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