Miracle Babies

Watch these videos about miraculous babies that survived amidst impossibilities. May your spirit be moved by these heartwarming stories. 

1. Miracle baby born with foot in the brain

2. Miracle baby in Haiti

3. Miracle babies rally each other through cancer treatment

"You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me." Psalm 139:4


"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalm 139: 13-14

Toddlers: the terrible twos or do they really are?

NO!!!!! I don't like!!!!!

I love you Mama and Dada!!!!!!

Toilet training
Offer choices
Don't leave alone
Doubt vs. Autonomy
Love security object
Explorative
Rituals and Routines
Saying "NO"

During this stage, alot of developmental milestones can be observed in a growing toddler. He can sit and walk with or without support. At 15 months, he can already drink from a cup, stack two blocks, say up to six words, listen to a short story and use a spoon or fork. At 18 months, he can walk backwards, throw a ball, say up to ten words, point to body parts, and scribble with a crayon.

Physically, a toddler's weight is tripled at 1 year of age and height is increased by 50%. This time, his chest is bigger than his head when measured.  

To facilitate learning in your toddler, it is important to provide learning opportunities such as:

1. Let the child try new things.

2. Let him/her help in the housework.

3. Hand the child with big puzzle pieces.

4. Expose your toddler to dancing and singing.

5. Visit a playground and let him/her explore with your assistance.

6. Give him a mirror to appreciate his face.

Now, let's go to the basics of caring for your toddlers:

1. Toddlers can be very picky when eating foods. Always give him options to assert independence and make sure his nutritional status is not altered. Finger foods like cut sized chicken, fruits, vegetables, macaroni, and cereals are good food choices. 

2. Ignore tantrums and set limits. You may use "time out" in one room corner to discipline your toddler. Never shout because it just worsen the tantrums. 

3. Acknowledge his fears and tell he doesn't have to see his fears. Ask your toddler what would make him less afraid.

4. Observe for readiness in your child when doing potty training. Do not be disappointed if he does nothing and say "We'll try next time." Give incentives for him to remain longer on the potty chair.

5. Always allot playtime no matter how busy you are. It can be lying down on a couch, pointing body parts, bouncing balls etc.

Toddlers can be irritating at times but they are truly the joy in a family. Let me quote this bible verse; Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14 

Caring for Newborns

Newborns are very fragile yet in their smiles are promises of hope, peace and love. During their first few weeks, they learn many important skills that all parents should note.

Most babies look on their mother's face and follow it with their eyes. They respond best to their parent's voices by turning their heads and usually, sudden sounds or movements make them startle. 

Here are some important notes to familiarize yourself about your baby's behavior:

1. The most important communication of a baby is crying. Sometimes they create cooing sounds that signals pleasure; arching their backs, grimacing and clenching their fists for displeasure. A high pitched cry often means pain or hunger. Observing your baby is still the key to master their art of communication.

2. When your baby is trying to convey something; pick her up, change her or feed her. You may try to talk to her, sing to her, and cuddle her gently. 

3. Most babies show social smile at 2 months. This is a common response to a friendly face or gesture. Smiling is a developmental ability that parents and doctors are truly proud of.

4. Your baby's temperament is affected by genes. However, it is partly affected by the environment that is why parent's immediate response to their baby is very crucial.

Knowing these behaviors, the physical growth of a baby is important to observe too.Take note that a newborn's height is increased by 50% in 12 months while its weight is doubled at 6 months.

Another development milestone of a baby is his teeth eruption. The first tooth that erupts is the lower central incisor usually at 4 months. Common signs are drooling, red and inflamed gums, awakening at night, fussiness, and chewing on rubber toys and their fingers. 

To soothe their pain, here are some helpful ideas for parents or caregivers:

1. Give him something to chew on.

2. Try teething rings or rubber toys and check which works best for your baby.

3. You may apply a cold and frozen washcloth to numb the pain.

4. If these didn't work, as your doctor for any OTC pain relievers.

Now let's go to the basics of caring for your babies. 

1. In bathing your baby, wash face and ears first using a washcloth. Use a mild soap and shampoo only. Make sure to play and have fun so she will look forward to her next bath.

2. In making your baby fall asleep, it is necessary that you wait few minutes before comforting your baby. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule each day and follow a bedtime ritual. 

3. Introduce soft foods at 4-6 months of age. This can be in the form of iron-fortified infant cereals, strained fruits and vegetables, and even strained meats like chicken, beef and pork. 

4. To encourage movement, put interesting toys on the floor for her to grab. Sit her on a chair or you may want to let her stand on your lap. Let her practice push up by lying on her stomach. Most importantly, give her alot of time to develop this skill. 

To be continued. Happy reading!!!!