6+ Months Q & A

Q: Teething and sleeping?

Bump Dara — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 15:02:00 GMT

Q: Thankfully, our child is usually a good sleeper, but now that she’s teething, her nights are totally thrown off. What should we do?

Conner Herman & Kira Ryan: We’re asked about sleeping-teething issues from parents a lot, and for good reason. Cutting an entire mouthful of teeth is a long process -- two to three years -- and the experience of teething varies from child to child. Some babies are very sensitive teethers while others pop out tooth after tooth without any evidence of suffering.

It sounds like you have a sensitive teether. Typically, the most painful teething period lasts two to three days. During this time, parents want to make their child more comfortable. During the day, cool teething toys are helpful. For nighttime, we recommend Infant’s Motrin or homeopathic teething tablets. Consult with your pediatrician to discuss what sort of pain reliever they recommend for your child.

If you decide to use a pain reliever, give it about 15 minutes before bedtime. Then, if your daughter wakes up at night and lets you know she’s uncomfortable, you can give her another dose if it’s at least 6 to 8 hours from bedtime. Keep these nighttime visits as quiet and unexciting as possible. And if she’s inconsolable at night, do whatever you need to do to make her feel better. She’s naturally a good sleeper, so assume she’ll fall back into that routine after this intense teething period passes.

This heightened pain should subside in a couple of days. But, as always, trust your instincts. Each child is different and you know your daughter best!

Decoding baby's cries >>

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Q: Musical toys for baby?

Bump Dara — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 20:42:00 GMT

Q: What are good musical toys for tots?

Ali Wing: For babies, it's all about percussion. While lots of everyday kitchen items can be utilized as a percussion instrument, musical toys are designed with safety in mind (and will prevent your kitchen from becoming a playpen). Here are my top choices for kid-friendly instruments:

	Mini maracas or egg shakers Maracas have a handle and egg shakers don't, but both are easy for little hands to hold onto and are easy to play. Babies as young as 10 months old can enjoy shaking them back and forth like a rattle, encouraging early rhythm and motor skills, but toddlers love them too. NY City Limit, $16
	Tambourines These are also incredibly easy to play and instantly create delightful sounds with no skill required. Some have drumheads in the middle and some don't, but the most important feature is that they're junior-sized so they won't be too hard to hold onto. Diapers.com, $19
	Train whistles Anyone can have fun with a train whistle. And it's more versatile than you’d think: Even the simplest train whistles change in pitch with different breaths. (They're also a great way to get a little boy who’s otherwise more interested in trains and cars focused on music class.) HeirloomWoodenToys.com, $7
	Castanets (aka “finger clickers”) A fun, simple tool for learning rhythm -- and you might just create a little flamenco dancer in the process. Grown-up versions are complicated, but these kid-friendly castanets come in cool animal shapes and are a snap to play. MusicTogether, $5
	Drums and mallets Kids love the gratification of banging on drums. The best versions have cloth heads for safety. I love this drum set that incorporates multiple surfaces for a variety of sounds. It's great for teaching rhythm and a lot more fun than a single surface. Giggle, $55

*All prices are subject to change.

Best baby keepsakes >>

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Q: Separation anxiety?

Bump Dara — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:15:00 GMT

Q: Why does my baby cry whenever someone else holds him? When will this end?

A: Though it may be a relief for you when someone else wants to hold baby or watch him for a couple of hours, for baby, the prospect is terrifying. Welcome to separation anxiety, also interchangeable with stranger anxiety. Your friends and family will take it a little personally (“Why doesn’t baby like me?”). The thing for everyone to remember is that baby is just going through a phase and it’ll pass. (Today he’s nervous about being without you. Come grade school, he’ll be nervous being seen with you.) The height of separation anxiety is 12 to 18 months, but it can rear its ugly head as early as six or seven months.

So how do you deal? Start by warming baby up to your leaving. Have the caretaker come 30 minutes before you’re due to leave so they can get to play with baby in your presence. This will show baby you trust the person and that he should feel comfortable too. Try some trial runs. First, leave the house for an hour and gradually increase how long you’re away so baby gets used to it in increments. Always say good-bye when you leave. Don’t prolong your gestures or show that it’s just as hard for you. Make it short, sweet, and to the point: “Bye honey, I’ll see you in a couple of hours.” All of these steps will help build baby’s confidence. As tempting and convenient as it may be to sneak out the back door while baby isn’t looking, in the long run, it’ll just increase baby’s anxiety if he doesn’t know where you went or when you’ll be back.

Transitioning into daycare >>

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Q: Teething solutions?

Bump Kaitlin — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:36:00 GMT

Q: Help! My baby's just started teething and no matter what I do I just can't get her to stop crying. Have any tips or suggestions?

A: Ah, the joys of teething... we definitely feel your pain. This stage isn't easy on anyone (least of all baby), but it's simply unavoidable. Read on for teething tips from both experts and fellow moms, and check out our list of favorite teethers. Plus, download our teething chart, which will help you keep track of bay's new teeth as they come in.

Q: Best teething gear? NEW!

Q: Are teething tablets helpful? EXPERT

Q: Teething tips? BUMPIES

Q: Dealing with teething?

Q: Teething on hand?

Downloadable Teething Chart

Keep track of when and where baby's teeth come in with this adorable teething chart. Print off two -- one for your doctor and one for your baby book.

> Download it now
> More great tools

> Have some of your own teething solutions? Share them below!

> Want to connect with other moms? Find a message board that's right for you:

> 0-6 month old babies > 12-14 months old

> 6-12 months old > 24+ months old

Pacifier weaning >>

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Q: Best teething gear?

Bump Dara — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:51:00 GMT

Q: There's the freezable, the vibrating, the hard, the squishy, the squeaky, the attachable...what teethers are best for baby?

A: When choosing baby's comfort-buddies, we suggest getting a toy or two that can easily travel in your diaper bag, a couple of soft, engaging or otherwise lovable ones that can double as “regular” toys (and aren't just something to chew on), and at least one that can be refrigerated or frozen. As with most toys and gear, you may have to experiment to find out what works best for your baby's particular stage and style. Just be sure your choices are non-toxic, have good, chewable textures, and are -- above all -- easy to clean!

From little mesh bags to big hunks of rubber, these are our favorites:

	Sophie the Giraffe by Vulli® Maybe it's the texture of her “skin,” or the feel of her nubby horns on sore gums. Perhaps she's extra-alluring because she comes from the French Alps. Whatever the reason, babies loooove Sophie. And, since this giraffe teether is made of natural rubber, food paint and no toxic gunk whatsoever, we moms are pretty much nuts about her too. Plus, there are chewable appendages sticking out every which way, a squeaker in the body to keep baby amused, and she's just the right size for a baby's grip. Now, you won't find Sophie in the $0.99 (or $10) bins, but trust us, the moment of silence is worth the twenty bucks. $22, The Land of Nod
	Organic Fruit Tote by Under the Nile The great thing about the fruit tote from Under the Nile -- aside from being organic and super-safe -- is that it offers a whole, gummable game for baby. Smaller babies can practice grabbing and mouthing (the fruits are small enough for tiny hands), and toddlers can stuff and easily carry the soft “basket” around the house. Even better, it's all machine washable. And hey, it couldn't hurt to teach baby about healthy shopping, right? $28, Amazon.com
	Rainbow Baby by Kathe Kruse The Kathe Kruse Rainbow Baby dolls come in a choice of colors, the wooden ring and soft body are absolutely chewable, and the little face just makes you want to melt. This isn't only a teether -- it doubles as a “lovey,” and is appropriate for even the tiniest babies. $14, Oompa
	Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder If baby is on the way to solids, mesh feeders are awesome—they ease teething pains while teaching little one to chew and introduce him to new flavors. This great one from Munchkin comes in stimulating colors and has a textured handle that's easy for baby to hold while he gnaws on whatever treat you've put inside. Nearly anything works, but frozen fruits, veggies, and even an ice cube are especially great for teethers. It's top-rack dishwasher safe -- just beware that goey-ier items (like bananas) can be tough to get out of the mesh. $8, Amazon.com
	Raz-Berry Teether by Razbaby If baby likes a pacifier, this teether could be a winner. As the name implies, the Raz-Berry is designed to look like, well, a raspberry. Why? Raspberries have little bumps, and little bumps apparently feel really good on aching gums. It's made of flexible 100% medical-grade Silicone, and baby can gnaw away while both her hands remain free for other fun. $6, Right Start

	Massaging Action Teether by First Years This Massaging Action teether from First Years may seem basic, but if you look closely, it's full of extras. Each of the three star tips has a different texture, the handle is designed to be held with two tiny hands, and a little spinning rattle at the bottom keeps baby entertained. The star vibrates when baby bites down, and though the sealed-up battery isn't replaceable, its eight hours of life should be plenty to make it through the teething days. $8, One Step Ahead
	Organic Teething Bonbon by Dress Me Up The Organic Teething Bonbon is about as simple as it gets -- a wad of cotton and wool – but man, does it work! You just soak the knots for a sec in cool water (preferably boiled first) and pop them in the freezer. Grab one when baby needs it for a super-soothing fix. You'd think it would be chilly to hold, but the wool stuffing in the center warms up fast to baby's touch. They are machine washable, but it's best to hang them to dry (remember to untie the knots). $12, Natural Pod
	Freddie the Firefly by Lamaze Freddie the Firefly is a busy little critter, meaning there's tons of stuff to keep baby engaged. It's all-around chewable, but the best bits are the dangling ladybug, the rings and the knotted legs. It comes with a big ring for attaching to car seats, strollers and high chairs, and the high-contrast colors and multiple noises (squeaking, crinkling and clacking) are extra entertaining when baby's not busy gumming. $10, Amazon.com
	The Teethifier We wouldn't call the Teethifier pretty, but it sure is a cool invention. As far as we know, this is the only teether designed to reach way back to baby's rear gums, without the risk of choking. The chewy bits are bumpy, so they provide some great massage action, and the pacifier shape keeps baby from shoving it in too far. Plus, some parents say it works well as a transition in the pacifier-weaning stage. $7, One Step Ahead
	Natursutten Apple Teething Ring Sweet and simple, the Natursutten Apple Teething Ring helps comfort baby and is easy to take anywhere. The shape is perfect for baby's grasp, and it's covered in little bumps for a good gum massage. If you're using it at home, stick it in the fridge for a while to chill the water inside for some extra soothing. $12, Giggle.com

*All prices are subject to change.

Teething tablets >>

<< Teething tips

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Q: First year checkup?

Bump Dara — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:18:00 GMT

Q: What’s involved during baby’s one-year-old checkup?

A: Happy birthday, baby--the time for smearing frosting all over your face is finally here. Turning one year old is a big milestone, one that requires a well-child visit. At this visit, your doctor will ask you how baby is sleeping, eating, and responding to stimuli. The physical exam will include the usual measuring of baby’s weight, height, and head circumference. The developmental part of the checkup tests baby’s ability to pull up, stand, walk (or cruise), sit, and respond to certain commands. Basically, the doctor wants to make sure baby is developmentally on track compared to previous visits. You may want to ask the doctor if new foods can be added to baby’s diet and if and when baby should be weaned from the breast or bottle. Raise any concerns you’ve had since your last appointment. And, lastly, it’s time for another round of immunizations for baby depending on what they’ve already been given and what they still need.

Cleaning baby's teeth >>

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Q: Teething tablets helpful?

Bump Dara — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:35:00 GMT

Q: Do teething tablets really help? What do they do?

Dr. Paula Prezioso: Teething tablets don't work! Some even have medications that aren’t safe for children. Since babies teethe from 6 months old to 2 years old, I don't recommend medication at all. Cold washcloths or cold teethers are a safe alternative.

Dealing with teething >>

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Q: Symptoms of ear infection?

Bump Dara — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:17:00 GMT

Q: How can I tell if baby has an ear infection?

Dr. Paula Prezioso: Ear infections are the most common reason children visit their pediatrician for a sick visit. The problem is these symptoms can include fever, irritability, and sometimes ear pulling. Symptoms can also be a sign of any viral infection -- or even teething (though teething doesn’t come with fever). Since most ear infections are caused by viruses, they usually clear up with fluids and time (of course, pain medication helps too!), but they don’t always require a visit to the doctor. In many cases, doctors wait on using antibiotics, so they may ask the parents to monitor the child and return to the office if symptoms progress.

Flu shot for baby >>

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