How to stop using a pacifier? 7 Ways to do it.

by Tips

How to stop using a pacifier? 7 Ways to do it.

You should know that there is not just one specific method that you can follow to immediately get your little one to part with their beloved pacifier. There are different ways that many parents have experimented with and eventually succeeded, depending on what suited each person's psyche.

You just have to remember that this process shouldn't be traumatic for the child. And if at times you think you can't possibly stop him from sucking, take comfort in the thought that no adult walks around with a pacifier in their mouth.

  1. Cut it out gradually. Start reducing the use of the pacifier during the day. Usually the child craves the pacifier because he has nothing else to do. Keep him busy with toys, books, other activities and limit the pacifier to bedtime until you eliminate it completely.

  2. If your toddler is in daycare, explain to him that none of his friends have a pacifier. Encourage him with words like, "You're a big boy now" or "You're a big girl and you don't need a pacifier anymore."

  3. More traditional ways to stop your little one from wanting a pacifier are to cut off the tip of the nipple so that it doesn't particularly enjoy using it.

  4. Put something with a bitter or sour taste in the pacifier.

  5. You can announce to him that the pacifier is lost forever. (The kitty took it to give to other children who don't have pacifiers)

  6. Agree with your toddler that you will "leave the pacifier to the fairy."

  7. Finally, you can simply throw it away.

Read more useful information here tips for new moms!

 

Christmas for children is the best time of the year. The most magical time…

by Tips

 

How wonderful it is to spend Christmas with your family! You all decorate the Christmas tree together with lots of ornaments and lights. The children write letters to Santa Claus, while Dad struggles to light the fireplace. Mom makes warm cookies and the whole house smells delicious! Then you all take a walk together in the city where it is decorated with lots of lights and beautiful, towering Christmas trees. This way, the children have really gotten into the Christmas spirit!

 “Christmas for children is the best day of the year and the most magical time of the year. They look forward to it with impatience, because they don’t have school, because they wait for the gifts that Santa Claus will bring them, because of the special decorations we make at home and especially in the city. For all these reasons, Christmas for children is the best time of the year,” psychologist Chrysoula Mavraki tells us.

 Armed with...Beautiful Memories!!!

“Children will keep memories of happy Christmases for their entire lives. These days help children keep beautiful memories that they will have as an arsenal during the bad times of their lives. Through these memories of happy childhood Christmases, they will find strength and courage for any difficulty they face,” emphasizes Ms. Mavraki.

 Parents and… consumption

“Parents approach Christmas precisely with the awareness that it is an amazing day for children and they try to create a program for them that includes activities. They buy them lots of gifts and do everything they can for their children. The bad thing is that they do everything they can for their children within a consumerist mindset. In other words, they believe that with lots of gifts, lots of games, lots of outings… they have made their children experience a wonderful Christmas,” the psychologist points out.

 "The message of Christmas is love, philanthropy (loving others), companionship and giving. We should see Christmas as a time when we will stay at home more, be more relaxed, be able to play meaningfully and communicate with children, listen to them and talk to them."

 "But first, let's listen to them, because all the rest of the time we don't hear them in the rush from here... to there, from school to daycare, from daycare to another daycare. It's not easy to listen to our children, nor to discuss with them. We need to show them that the spirit of Christmas is the spirit of giving and not just the spirit of consuming and demanding gifts."

 Some tips!

-Make gifts with your children. Cards, handmade crafts, sweets... Wrap them beautifully and give them to loved ones.

-Don't spend money thoughtlessly on gifts that anyone can find in any store.

"Thus, we accustom the child to a spirit that does not have consumption in it, but passion, a personal stamp, caring. He learns that a gift is love and thought. Not that a gift is an obligation and if you don't give me a gift or a great gift, you are not a good dad, godfather, Santa Claus," emphasizes the psychologist.

-Visit grandparents, godparents, and all the people you see little of in everyday life.

-Take beautiful walks so that they can fill their eyes and ears with beautiful sights and beautiful sounds.

-Get plenty of rest, take a nap... because this is the spirit of the days and not the spirit of fatigue, staying up late, eating too much, and spending too much.

Finally... CAN'T WE BECOME CHILDREN AGAIN THIS CHRISTMAS WITH OUR CHILDREN?

 by Angeliki Christopoulou

With the collaboration of psychologist Chrysoula Mavraki

 

 

 

 

How many babies suffered from colic? 11 ways to relieve our baby.

by Tips

baby colic!

Many newborns after the tenth day of life experience severe pain in the intestines – the so-called colic – and it usually occurs at the same time every day. It is comforting to know that infants who suffer from colic do not have any health problems and after the first three to four months of life, colic almost completely subsides.

 It is certainly very difficult for parents to listen to their baby's incessant crying every day. There is no complete cure, but there are some relief techniques that you can try to at least alleviate the discomfort your baby feels.

Below you will find useful tips to help your crying baby.

1. Give your baby a warm bath and then wrap them in a blanket quite tightly. Some babies seem to feel more secure when they are swaddled, perhaps because they remember the situation they experienced in the womb.

2. Gently massage the baby's tummy, clockwise, and his back, counterclockwise (i.e. following the direction of the large intestine, the part that needs relief).

3. Hold the baby on your shoulder, patting him gently on the back and helping him burp or expel gas from his stomach.

4. Feed your baby in a relaxed, quiet and calm environment, whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding. The correct way of feeding reduces air swallowing which can contribute to colic.

5. Lay the baby on his back and make gentle circular movements with his legs.

6. Hold the baby and walk up and down without shaking it. The movement of your body is more relaxing for the baby.

7. Encourage him to suck on his pacifier or a teether.

8. Play soft music or sing to him.

9. Put your baby in a standing or lying down carrier to make them feel closer to you. It's comforting to have your belly touch your baby's belly.

10. Breastfed babies can experience colic. Continue to breastfeed. Breast milk adapts to the baby's needs, so it has more relaxing hormones for the suffering infant. However, it is imperative that you remain calm and cool in order to continue breastfeeding.

11. Go for a ride in the car. Of course, always using the special safety seat.

The above tips will help you overcome the problem. However, if you have concerns about your baby's health, do not hesitate to seek the advice of your pediatrician, as your baby's symptoms may be due to something else.

Read more useful information here tips for new moms!

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Swimming pools and asthmatic children. They must exercise.

by Baby swimming

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A few decades ago, the prevailing view was that an asthmatic child, in order to avoid any dangerous attacks, had to be limited or even excluded from sports activities.

This view has recently changed and it is considered that the asthmatic child, who is undergoing appropriate treatment, not only can, but must play sports. In fact, it is considered that his/her involvement in swimming can be done not only at a recreational level but can even reach the level of championship. A typical example is the American athlete Amy Van Duken, who won 4 gold medals in swimming at the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996, while suffering from bronchial asthma since the age of 18 months.

Swimming, compared to other sports, is considered the most suitable for asthmatic children, because the humid and warm air of the swimming pool protects them from the bronchospasm that usually occurs after the end of other sports. With swimming, asthmatic children improve:

  • their health status, because their cardiorespiratory capacity increases and they are psychologically stimulated,

  • they are not afraid and gain self-confidence,

  • they reduce their stress and feel like they are living a completely normal life.

In a study on "A swimming program in children with asthma" published in the Medical Journal Asthma in 2000, it was shown that the participation of 73 asthmatic children in a swimming program yielded the following results:

97% of the children enjoyed swimming
77% felt more confident
50% improved asthma severity
67% improved asthma control
46% reduced the number of visits to the doctor
64% reduced the number of hospital admissions
74% reduced the number of absences from school.

Ultimately, it can be said that swimming improves the quality of life of asthmatic children, as well as their parents.

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A few tips for the world of water

by Baby swimming

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Babies love being in the water! Having spent the first nine months of their lives floating in amniotic fluid in the womb, they love the liberating feeling that swimming offers, as the environment is familiar to them.

Here are some tips to prepare your baby for the world of water.

First step: the bathroom at home!

We all love to play with our babies and the fun this time can start at bath time, where the parent-child bond is strengthened. Immerse yourself in the water slowly, holding your baby on your chest. Smile at him, sing to him, talk to him, while maintaining reassuring eye contact.

For greater "bonding", breastfeeding in the bath will strengthen the security and connection with the water. Watch his reactions, respond and relax with your baby. All this will help you understand your baby's needs.

The next step: the swimming pool!

Everything good takes time and effort, so give your child time to get used to the noises, colors, splashing, and the general environment of the pool. Your baby's senses will be overwhelmed by sights, sounds, and happy voices, so don't be disappointed if he's hesitant at first. Give him time!

Here is a handy list of information, for you and your baby:

  • Find out the pool temperature!

The water should be warm and you will know your baby is getting cold when his nails and lips turn blue quickly, as they do in the sea. Warm him up by holding him, using your body temperature, and inform the pool manager.

  • Learn the pool policy (special swim diapers)

You will be asked to wear the special waterproof diaper and the special double-lined swimsuit. Regular diapers are not acceptable in a pool.

  • Get towels or bathrobes for the baby and for yourself.

  • When the baby does not react in the pool (does not move arms, legs) move yourself! Move your baby, make circles in the water, holding him by the arms and having eye contact, play, sing to him, talk to him, gently pour water on his head and face without scaring him. This helps him get used to and bond with the water.

  • Be pleasant and positive! Your child will receive the messages from you.

  • Your first session should not last more than 20-30 minutes.

  • After swimming and when you are both dressed, get him into the habit of drinking something to hydrate.

  • Do not feed it in the locker room as it is unhygienic.

Babies are hungry and tired after swimming, so they may eat and sleep more.

  • Babies lose heat from their heads very quickly, so take a hat with you for after bathing.

Swim regularly – it's a great family activity and the start of a healthy lifestyle together.

Source: (Brewis Tamsin)  http://www.babyexpert.com/baby/development/top-baby-swimming-tips/5819.html

 

Article in the magazine "Koita Mama"

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Baby swimming is an educational program that develops children's skills through play in the water. It is addressed to parents and infants from 6 months to 3.5 years old.

It is scientifically proven that baby swimming strengthens children's physique, respiratory system and heart function and improves their body posture. It helps them overcome their fears, gain confidence and become more social and independent. It is also a very constructive way to spend time with their parents and as is well known exercise keeps them from getting sick often!!!

The required documents for the enrollment in the courses are a medical certificate by a pathologist/general practitioner, a dermatologist and a gynecologist for the parents and a medical certificate by the pediatrician and three passport photos for the children.

Lessons take place in small groups at the swimming pool of Egnatia Palace Hotel in the center of Thessaloniki and are held by Nicolas Hatzigiakoumis, the program manager of Ichtheis and one of the few and most experienced baby swimming instructors in Greece.

Source: Koita Mama magazine article

3rd Breastfeeding Event in Thessaloniki! Ichtheis Baby Swimming will be there!

by Latest news

In celebration of Breastfeeding Week* (1 to 7 November 2012) the Network of Breastfeeding and Motherhood Support Groups invites us to their breastfeeding event on Sunday 4 November 2012 at the White Tower in Thessaloniki, as well as in 21 other cities in Greece!

“IF I CAN DO IT….YOU CAN DO IT TOO”

Mothers from different parts of Greece participate for the third consecutive year in the Nationwide Simultaneous Breastfeeding, which aims to promote, support and provide information, not just through a brochure or a speech, but in practice through actual breastfeeding. There will also be discussions and distribution of information material, while mothers will have the chance to meet and talk with each other!

Most members of the Network of Breastfeeding and Motherhood Support Groups will participate in this event that will take place in all major Greek cities! All members of the Network operate voluntarily in order to promote, support and share information "from mother to mother".

The group "Thessaloniki ― Pregnancy ― Childbirth ― Breastfeeding" awaits us at 11 am at the White Tower to breastfeed "like at home".

Although breastfeeding is free and does not follow timetables, the babies who want to breastfeed at around 12:00 will be counted in the Nationwide Simultaneous Breastfeeding which will take place at the same time in all cities!

We will be waiting for you all around Greece, mommies, daddies, pregnant ladies, grandmas and everyone else who supports breastfeeding and would like to get informed and celebrate the Breastfeeding Week!

The event will include activities for our older children, yoga for mothers and infants, information sharing by breastfeeding experts and midwives and many more surprises.

* In 1992, Breastfeeding Week was established by WABA (World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action), the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF on August 1-7. In Greece, Breastfeeding Week is celebrated from 1 to 7 November and this year's theme is “Understanding the Past, Planning the Future”. This year marks the twentieth anniversary since the first Breastfeeding Week and the tenth anniversary since September 2002 that WHO and UNICEF adopted the Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding.

WELEDA supports us! Article in NATURA magazine

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WELEDA was founded in 1921 in Switzerland by a group of doctors and pharmacists. Regardless of the various trends, the company has been operating for nearly eight decades "in harmony with nature and the human being" by using biodynamic farming for the production of its cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. In the framework of searching for innovative ideas, socially sustainable projects and distinguished young entrepreneurs, WELEDA supports the work of Ichtheis Baby Swimming.

Baby swimming is an educational program that develops children's skills through play in the water. It is addressed to parents and infants from 5-6 months to 4 years old. It takes place in the spa center of Egnatia Palace Hotel, in a swimming pool that is treated with bromine and has a constant temperature of 31-32 degrees. Classes are held once a week in groups of three or four for a total of 30 minutes (based on scientific research).

The benefits of baby swimming are unique!!!

It is scientifically proven that baby swimming strengthens children's physique, respiratory system and heart function and improves their body posture. It helps them overcome their fears, gain confidence and become more social and independent. It is also a very constructive way to spend time with their parents and as is well known, exercise keeps them from getting sick often!!!

Our little friends will have the opportunity to play, have fun and learn how to swim according to the latest methods and by the most specialized baby swimming instructors in Greece. At an age that very few activities are suitable for infants, baby swimming comes to fill this gap with a lot of fun and learning.

Parents will be able to spend a very productive and enjoyable time with their children in spotless and fully equipped facilities. The program is addressed to all those who look for the best when it comes to their children's education and entertainment and wish to share such an experience with other parents.

Program Manager – Information: Christina Chrysochoidou

Education & Training Manager: Nicolas Hatzigiakoumis – Professor of physical education, swimming and baby swimming instructor, lifeguard, water ski trainer, personal and family gymnast. He holds two baby swimming certificates from the official Australian Organization for the Teaching of Swimming and Water Safety (AUSTSWIM), as well as degrees in first aid and diving.

Article by "Pigolampides sto klouvi" (Fireflies in the cage)

by Related articles

The benefits of baby swimming are unique!!!

It is scientifically proven that baby swimming strengthens children's physique, respiratory system and heart function and improves their body posture. It helps them overcome their fears, gain confidence and become more social and independent.

It is also a very constructive way to spend time with their parents and as is well known, exercise keeps them from getting sick often!!!

  • Children who attend baby swimming classes are often able to swim before they even walk. As they advance their swimming skills, they learn how to synchronize, they become more resistant and strengthen their respiratory system.

  • The earlier children start with baby swimming, the faster they develop the necessary skills that will ensure their safety in the water.

  • The smooth and relaxing exercises in the water let them sleep better, longer and more peacefully. The parents of our little students are indeed telling us that their babies sleep better and longer after their swimming lessons.

  • Swimming offers great joy to children and allows them to develop a healthier and more dynamic personality.

  • Baby swimming helps infants develop their self-esteem and become more independent adults in the future. As they learn how to move freely in the water, they also increase their sense of well-being.

  • Parents are able to spend a very productive and enjoyable time with their children, especially at this age that very few activities are suitable for infants. That way, baby swimming builds stronger bonds between parents and children and, under the right circumstances, it increases cohesion in the family and society in general.

  • Baby swimming is often their first experience with children of the same age. Thus they learn to socialize and interact with each other and they look forward to the next lesson. They develop their social skills much more than other children who do not participate in similar activities. Baby swimmers are thus more social!

  • Parents also have the opportunity to meet and discuss with each other about their common interests and beliefs. So children and parents socialize together.

  • Swimming classes from such a young age set a solid foundation for children's later contact with all kinds of water sports.

Ichtheis Baby Swimming

Nicolas Hatzigiakoumis, the program manager of Ichtheis Baby Swimming, is one of the few and most experienced baby swimming instructors in Greece. He is a professor of physical education specialized in swimming and holds two baby swimming certificates from the official Australian Organization for the Teaching of Swimming and Water Safety (AUSTSWIM). He worked for several years as a coach and then as a program manager at Idria, which is the first and most specialized baby swimming club in Greece, under the supervision and mentoring of Margarita Kotzia in 3 different swimming pools in Athens (OAKA, Palini, Agioi Anargiroi). His long experience as a family gymnast of eminent personalities of Athens is another aspect of his multifaceted professional background.

He also holds international degrees in lifeguarding, first aid, diving and water ski coaching and has attended numerous seminars on baby swimming and infant education.

His passion for sports, but especially his love for children (he is a father of two) are the main reasons why he decided to become an educator and then devote his life to baby swimming by starting the most organized baby swimming program in Thessaloniki.

Source:

Fireflies in the cage