May 30th, 2009 | Gifts, Health, TO DOs | 1 Comment |
It’s summertime and unfortunately, some of us don’t have air conditioning for those hot crazy months of July and August, which will be here before you know it. Imagine the stress that comes with having a baby during the summertime, when it can get well into the 90s and even low 100s in the inland areas of Southern California.
1. If your baby likes to be swaddled, use a muslin, gauzy swaddling blanket that is breathable and will keep baby from overheating. One great summer product is The Peke Moe, which is a light cotton sleeping bag for baby. The enclosed sack keeps baby cool and keeps their hands from scratching their faces. You can swaddle them tightly or let them loose, if you or your baby so choose.
2. Stay out of direct sunlight and apply the sunscreen: American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies under 6 months not be exposed to direct sunlight. If you must do so, use a non-chemical sunscreen. There are a number of organic sunscreens for infants from California Baby SPF 30 Sunscreen to Earth’s Best Organic Chemical Free Sunblock.
3. When outside, try to stay in the shade, dress the baby in lightweight cotton clothing and put a brimmed hat on baby to keep baby’s head cool.
4. Fans are your friends – you can carry a mini fan in your diaper bag to fan your baby if you are caught in a store with no A/C, or blast a larger fan in your home. Using fans are also an eco-friendly way to save energy and money if it’s not too hot and you just want a breeze.
5. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and cool yourself. You want to be in good health and in a good mood to care for your baby.
April 19th, 2009 | Health, Safety, TO DOs | No Comments |
Right about now, in this great weather, you are thinking about planning the upcoming summer vacation or trip to the beach and not what you and your family should do in case of a blackout or earthquake. But really, you should. It’s not a bad time to plan because not being prepared at all could be disastrous. Gather a sturdy container and set it aside as a go-to container for emergency products. Include water (three gallons per person), toilet paper, first aid kit, can opener, disposable cups and plates, non-perishable goods, food (include baby food and formula), clothing, diapers, flashlight, radio, ID cards, contact numbers and a large blanket. In an event of a fire or evacuation, you can grab the container and throw it into your trunk.
When I was pregnant, I purchased a large plastic water container for camping that holds up to 7 gallons of water and has an attached spigot. Every month (or two, when I forget), I empty it onto my lawn and then refill it.
Be prepared, you will feel so much better.
March 19th, 2009 | Health, TO DOs | No Comments |
Ideally, before you conceive, you should check with your health insurance company as to what type of prenatal coverage is offered. If you don’t like the coverage, or the obstetrician you like is out of the insurance network, think about switching insurance. You may want to change from a PPO to an HMO – do a complete investigation of your options under each program.
When you first find out you are pregnant, it is important to know what the out-of-pocket costs will be for you. Deductibles! Deductibles! Deductibles! Find out what your deductibles, if any, are for prenatal visits and delivery, and ask what tests and procedures your insurance covers. Don’t get surprised by a bill for a high deductible. Also, there may be extra costs for such things as an epidural, which may not be covered by your insurance. Depending on the state, a cesarean can cost as much as $20,000. Also, co-pays are another out of pocket expense to consider. Since you will be seeing your physician at least once a month while you are pregnant, you will need to add that to the list of costs.
While you are at it, check on coverage for your baby. For an emergency early delivery, neonatal intensive care and any extraordinary situations, you may find yourself with out-of-pocket medical costs. If you don’t have health insurance, contact your local health department and some non-profit organizations to see if they offer programs that can help.
