Election 2012 - Wicked Cool Baby Style

Now that the election is over, we can go back to life without all the political ads. Whether you’re Republican or Democrat, the months leading up to Nov 6 are taxing on everyone (pun intended). Even though the littlest “constituents” don’t really know what’s going on and they won’t be able to vote for years, judging from their little faces, they were OVER it!


Incidentally, the practice of “baby kissing” is believed to have started back in the time of Andrew Jackson and has survived, even flourished, through elections as a time honored way to get out the vote and gain public (women’s especially) support trying to get out a positive image. Today, it’s almost a superstition although there’s no case as to whether it helps or hinders.

Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis act out this humorous version of the cliché in this scene from a recent movie “The Campaign”, http://youtu.be/QKbziodzimo

As for Obama and Romney, they were both reported as being fairly ill-at-ease while holding infants and likely to hand the child back like “a grenade with the pin pulled out”.

So how about you? Does kissing babies make the candidates any more appealing or charismatic to you?

Halloween 2012 - No Tricks, only Treats!

Your kids will never know how different Halloween is for them than it was for us. Hours out by ourselves and our parents never worried. Did you take the pillowcase off your bed? Yeah, me too. Even though Halloween is different now, new traditions have started and we can still keep children safe while letting them enjoy the fun of dressing up and those wonderful treats.

Here are some tips on keeping your little ones safe:

1. Make sure costumes are the correct size, not dragging the ground. Masks should be easy to breathe in and see where they’re going. Accessories not to bulky, sharp or dangerous should the child fall. Light costumes are better and to make your child easier to see, they can carry a flashlight or wear glow sticks around their neck.

2. Keep the kids in groups and stay on the sidewalks. Always cross streets on the crosswalks and walked on blocks facing the traffic.

3. Have a plan before you leave the house and make sure you take a cell phone.

4. If your child is trick or treating accompanied by another adult, make sure they know who is in charge and are comfortable with the person. For younger children, the adult should accompany the child up to the door.

5. Teach children to stay in well lit areas, don’t take shortcuts, and only enter homes with your prior permission. Tell them never to approach a vehicle even if it looks empty and stay with the group.

6. Tell your kids if anyone tries to grab them, do everything, scream, kick and yell “This person is trying to take me!” or “This is not my Mother/Father!” to draw attention to themselves.

7. Consider attending home or organized community parties as a good alternative to trick or treating.

8. Always check your kids treats before they eat them. Throw away any candy not in its original wrapper or pieces that look like they’ve been opened or tampered with.

A little common sense goes a long way. Plan out your route and stay out of unfamiliar areas or dark alleys and parking lots. Have a fun safe Halloween!

We Can’t be too Safe

Of course, I’m going to start this by saying I don’t ever remember this happening when I was a kid. Thank goodness. I’m sure it happened but it was much more rare. I realize then it was a simpler time but the world is getting scarier and scarier these days. Children being abducted. Not just when they wander off, out in the woods, playing in a vacant lot or behind a dark building, but on our streets, in front of the school, broad daylight, in our yards and right under our noses.

Today we fight it harder. We have tighter security at schools, neighborhood watch and other wonderful programs like the Amber Alert and it still happens. Parents have to be more diligent than ever, even if we’re busy, even if it’s inconvenient. Even if we’re lucky and it’s never happened to us or anyone we know.

Sometimes a miracle happens and the child is found unharmed as in a recent case in Toulon, Illinois where a 3 week old baby was found under a bridge within 24 hours of abduction.

http://www.fireengineering.com/news/2012/10/01/missing-baby-found-alive-and-healthy.html

Sometimes we don’t get the miracle that we pray so hard for, as in the case just this week in my area, Westminster, Colorado of Jessica Ridgeway, 10 yrs old, found dismembered, one week after her abduction.

http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/10/12/14396130-body-found-in-colorado-is-that-of-missing-girl-jessica-ridgeway-authorities-confirm?lite

We used to leave Saturday morning on our bikes and not come home until 5 o’clock for dinner. That cannot be any more. That time is over. Never leave a young child alone, not even for a minute. Know where your children are and what they’re doing. Arrange for supervised play, escort to school and know the people that they'll be around.

If these stories don’t scare you, nothing will. If you send your kids out to play, go with them, play with them or grab a cup of coffee and sit on the deck. Keep a watchful eye on them. So what if the floor needs mopping or the laundry needs to be done, the floor can wait, your children can’t.

For statistics on the number of children abducted each year, visit the website for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:

http://www.missingkids.com/missingkids/servlet/PageServlet?LanguageCountry=en_US&PageId=2810#1

Cursing children and F bombs

Just when you think they’re not paying any attention to what you’re doing or saying, playing quietly in the floor facing the wall, beware! Oh, they hear you, believe me, and they will bring that curse word back to life when its utterance will be the most embarrassing for you!


Scene: Four men standing in the garage, each holding an ice cold beer. The man that caught the winning fish of the day regaling his buddies with the “Fish story” of how, when and where he snagged this beauty. Several children and grandchildren riding trikes in the driveway and the 3+ yr old comes running into the kitchen where all us gals (family and neighbors) are chatting and yells, “Gramma, Gramma, Come look at the big f**king fish!” Grandma and the neighbor ladies suck in a deep breath as the cousins all bust up laughing.

Now, this is immediately a mixed message for the child (some laughing and some appalled) and while you have to admit, there’s something inherently funny about a very small child using a very adult word, it’s a teachable moment that you cannot pass up. Whether you are a never-ever kinda parent or the more lenient only-in-certain-circumstances type, a discussion is warranted.

Try not to react one way or another because that’s usually what the child is looking for, a reaction…but don’t ignore the situation. Pulling out a video camera is not the way to go if you’re trying to curtail the cussing but sometimes it’s a surprise:

Young children, up to 5 or so, most likely don’t know what the words mean so you can keep it simple and just tell them not to say it. Talk to them and give them an alternative word they can use to express what they are trying to say. With older children who can think more abstractly, you may want to further explain why they cannot use a particular word. Don’t go ballistic on them. Keep your sense of humor and move on. Remind those around the kids to check themselves.

Oh, and when your 5 yr old says, ”But I heard you/Daddy say it!”, you might want to have a response all ready… :)

Baby Sign Language

Many mom these days are using baby signs with their infants and successfully opening the lines of communication well before word skills are attained. Baby sign language allows children to use their hands to bridge the communication gap.

Most babies start to verbalize at around 4-6 months although at this point, it’s just babbling. The vocalizing will continue to progress as your baby’s “receptive” language builds where they can understand more of what you’re saying to them and will try to imitate sounds, around 8-12 months. Generally around 1 year is when you’ll hear their first words.

Studies reveal that babies can learn to sign starting at 8 months, with some starting as early as 5 months. In these studies, not only did it help babies learn to talk and jumpstart their intellectual development, a number of very important social-emotional benefits were also revealed:

1. reduces frustration

2. helps parents and teachers be more observant and responsive

3. builds trust between babies and their parents and caregivers

4. allows babies to share their worlds revealing just how smart babies really are

5. promotes positive emotional development

Some babies who start out signing actually learn speech faster. It’s a wonderfully bonding experience too.

So will you be trying this out? Check out the web for lots of information on the topic. Here are a few trusted sites to start you out:

Mayo Clinic website:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/baby-sign-language/AN02127


Signing baby basics dictionary:  http://www.signingbaby.com 

...And a delightful video of a 12 month old signing quite a vocabulary on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gSZfW4gVhI

Bento Madness

 WTH is this trend where the “cool” mommies feel obligated to stand in the kitchen, early in the morning, and cut up little pieces of cheese, fruits and veggies to resemble some robot or animal or spell something or any other assortment of edible art? Then, place it in a container with sections, each having its own little healthy theme, and send it off to school. The idea being, to make their kids a lunch that is impressive to look at and will hopefully entice their child to eat healthy foods they may not necessarily like.

Wow, score another one for the overachieving mommies! Who has time for this? I mean, for a special occasion or once in awhile thing maybe, but on a regular basis? Do you get to looking at these masterpieces and start to feel as though, if you’re not doing this for your kids, you are failing them somehow? Don’t get duped into believing that you’re not up to par if you can’t keep up with this trend.

Yes these are adorable, but most likely, your child won’t eat it just because it looks cool. If they don’t like the food, it may get played with but will stay in its little section of the bento box, turning brown or smashed and looking sad.

I realize that things are more forward thinking and kids are savvier today than when I was a kid but my mom made the best ham and cheese or PBJ’s in the world and they went great with a bag of chips and a few carrot sticks…maybe an apple. She made us eat our veggies at dinner with a well rounded meal and we got all the nutrients we needed.

Since when are mom’s expected to add artistically beautiful lunches to the number of things that they are supposed to do to make everything “special” for their kids. You don’t have to aspire to be the culinary whiz. Not every aspect of your kids lives have to be extraordinary for you to be listed in the “Great Mom” category.

Yes, pack a healthy lunch. Pack a lunch your child will eat. Pack a little treat but most of all, pack them with love.

Coloring Your Kids World?

Just in time for the 11th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy a US publisher has a new book for your kids. Wow, is it just me or isn’t this a colossally bad idea? A 9-11 coloring book? Really! They try to make it seem a little better by saying it’s got a PG-13 rating……but that doesn’t help. The 13 year olds I know don’t color with crayons anymore. We all know it’s the smaller children who do. They are touting this book as a “teaching tool”. Is this how you want to tell you kids about evil people doing evil things, putting in full graphic detail, crash sites and the face of Saddam to color?


To make matters worse, get this, the book includes terrorists trading cards for your kids to share and trade! How lovely. The publisher says it’s to “name and shame” them. Granted this isn’t the first time terrorists trading cards have made print. It was a bad idea then and still is now. And, exactly, how are trading cards shaming them?

The publisher, Wayne Bell, of St. Louis-based Big Coloring Books, Inc., says, "We don't take a position on the books we publish. We publish books based on readership”, he adds. "We publish books that readers buy."  Read more…… http://shine.yahoo.com/parenting/9-11-coloring-book-features-terrorist-trading-cards-204300629.html

So, it IS just about the money…….

Coffee and Beer....for Toddlers?

So I mentioned last week seeing a parent on the Lifetime TV show “the Week the Women Went” giving their 3 year old coffee. The father said she loves it and drinks it all the time. I was appalled that a parent would give their toddler a cup of coffee.

Not only is caffeine a stimulant and addictive but it can have side effects like jitters, stomach problems, heart palpitations and irritability. Young children are still growing and developing and caffeine affects the receptors in the brain. Granted, so does chocolate (however, not as much) but there are plenty of things better for your child to drink rather than coffee and/or soda. Any pediatrician will tell you not to give a child coffee. Most coffee has quite a bit more caffeine than even regular soda. (check out caffeine levels in your favorite drink):  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/caffeine/AN01211/


Are we really back to “…but I don’t want to tell my child NO”? I checked out the topic online and found there are quite a few people who don’t think this is a bad thing. There are also some who think that a sip of their beer, wine or alcohol can’t hurt either. I completely disagree and think it’s ridiculous to even introduce these things into a child’s life. They’ll have plenty of time to find their own vices on their own when they become an adult, they don’t need a jump start. What purpose does this serve anyway? People ask, why shouldn’t you give your kids these things (and don’t see reason not to)? I think the question is, why should you? Give me a good reason TO give your kids adult drinks. Which side are you on?

Men in Distress, Crisis TV

A new TV show series on Lifetime aired their first episode yesterday, called “The Week the Women Went”. Did you watch this? It’s a reality type show where TV cameras descend on a whole town in South Carolina and tape what happens when they remove all the women over 18 yrs old and leave the men to fend for themselves and their children for 1 week.

Now, I’m not a huge reality fan and I don’t believe for a second that none of this program’s pandemonium is pre-planned but it is VERY entertaining none the less.

The men have to take care of everything from the toddlers beauty pageant and running their wives businesses to the everyday get-the-kids-fed-bathed-and-to-sleep that every mom deals with all the time. Some have babies, some are dealing with school aged children and some have teenagers giving them problems.

It’s funny to see expressions on the husband’s faces that can only come from dealing with unreasonable children and toddlers. They are fish out of water and many have the glazed over eyes already and we’re only into the first day! It promises to be a rollercoaster series indeed.

To see Lifetime’s official “The Week the Women Went” page;

http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/the-week-the-women-went

On a side note: I was appalled to see one dad giving his 3 year old daughter coffee (simply because she asked) and mentions that they (parents) do this all the time and that she loves It! Stay tuned to the post, “Should I be giving my child coffee (or any other adult beverages)?”

Potty Parties: film at 11

What about these potty parties I keep hearing about? Do we really need to throw a party for a child who learns to control a bodily function? Potty parties are just another over-achieving mommy’s idea of an event that needs to be memorialized with a special party for their special child. Ridiculous!

People, as a parent you should celebrate this event with your child; hugs all around, maybe some candy and stickers, maybe even a cake, AT HOME, with the family. This is not and should not be a public event. We need to reel in this trend of having a party for EVERYTHING your child does and take a step back so they can have realistic expectations of life.

And now, as if the party thing isn’t enough, we have the I-really-must-post-this-for-the-world-to-see parents on social network/video sites! Yikes!

I realize this is a milestone in your child’s life but is it really public-video-YouTube-worthy? This has got to be worse than the party because at least the party is over at some point. I see this stuff and I am SOOO thankful that YouTube didn’t exist in my day!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yhdyh6hSdgs

I feel bad for these kids because these videos of them pooping will NEVER go away, ever. The parents think they’re adorable but I’m wondering if the children featured are gonna love the idea of it when they’re older and say….dating? Shouldn’t these types of videos, if the parents MUST tape them, stay in the family vault somewhere?

How are you celebrating the potty training milestone at your house? Keeping it in the family or “going public”?

Mommy-Jacking and Parental Oversharing

Have you heard these terms? Here are the “definitions”…


Mommy-Jacking: The art of “hi-jacking” someone else’s unrelated FB status or comment post to make it all about your child or needing to have a child.

Or

Parental Oversharing: The misguided idea that somehow, everyone following you on social media wants to know and hear about your child’s poop, snot (and other bodily fluids), or your toddler’s boners.

Of course, there all types of Mommy-Jackers: We have the Classic Mommy-Jacker; she really believes that your day/post will be better when she interjects her news. The Self-Centered Mommy-Jacker; she finds a way to work info about her kids into just about any conversation. The Self-Righteous Mommy-Jacker; she will let you know that no matter what’s happening in your life, she has faced worse, done more, or already tried that and knows what you need to do. There are even Mommy-Jackers that try to hi-jack other Mommy-Jackers with “One-up-manship” ala the You-think-you’re-tired-listen-to-this type posts.

Parents DO get a bad wrap for doing this, especially when you consider that other people overshare about other aspects of their lives too….like your friend that tells you every time they’re off to the grocery store or specific details about their exercise workout. Have a little patience.

As parents, of course you’re proud of your child’s first solid poop or their extreme cuteness when they scream and you think you might be more challenged and tired than anyone EVER, but before you hit SEND, just ask yourself, “Is this information really necessary or am I just Mommy-Jacking this person’s status?”

When reading these, most people just think, “Eww, TMI!” ….and then there are the ones who think, “How can your children be the center of the universe when clearly mine are?”

Have you been guilty of over-sharing in the past? What's the funniest thing someone has shared about their kids on your FB page?

Fifty Shades of Baby Boom

Yes, I admit it….I’ve read the first two of the three Fifty Shades (E.L. James) books….as have millions of women now. I initially had little interest until the buzz got so loud it was barely avoidable and it piqued my curiosity. I also was approached by a total stranger in a sushi bar while reading a (different) novel on my Nook and asked if I was reading Fifty Shades. The lady was so excited and breathy to hear if I’d read the popular novel and when I told her “No, I’ve heard a lot about it though” she said, “OMG you simply must!”.


In addition to the sexy story and erotic passages that happen in the book, women are falling in love with the steamy characters and, I think, the emotional fantasy it stirs. It’s been called “emotional crack” for women. This racy book, they claim, has really revved up their sex lives. I’m guessing their men are enjoying this renewed interest even if they’re not sure where it came from.

Recent talk suggests that we’ll be having a Baby Boom of Fifty Shades babies that should hit sometime in 2013 judging from when the books seem to have become so popular. Some ladies are admitting they are reading these novels two or three times and are even considering naming their newborns after the characters in the books.

Women have always related to and named their kids after certain characters in books and movies that moved them. Movies such as Body Heat (1981), 9 ½ weeks (1986) and Original Sin (2001) may have caused their own “baby boom” in their time.

Now we know that the Fifty Shades movie is a reality and the casting efforts are in full swing. Fans seem to be leaning towards either Ian Somerhalder (Vampire Diaries) or Ryan Gosling (The Notebook) to play the sexy Christian Grey leading role but the casting is a very make or break thing since every woman has their own idea about who’s sexy and perfect for the part. Production is still a ways away so we have plenty of time to find the perfect Mr. Grey.

Have you named your child after a character in a book or movie? What actor would you pick to play Mr. Grey in the movie?

Onesie Crosses the Line for Some

From the desk of Wicked Cool Baby:

Last week a particular printed onesie was in the news, available at Gordman’s (at least in Mississippi) for a short time before the powers that be, removed it from the shelves reacting to outraged parents who felt it was wildly inappropriate.

Since this is a related topic to what Wicked Cool Baby does, I felt the need to comment.

I get why parents would dislike this particular onesie, I rather dislike the design myself. I feel it’s inappropriate to create infant wear that depicts any design that is sexual in nature. I’m guessing that’s the basis for the parental outrage over this one; it’s distasteful. By the sound of this story, I’m not alone in my thinking.

I have also seen onesies and infant wear that comment on sperm “winning” and Daddy “getting it up”…I hate these too!  Although, I have to say, over the years I’ve seen other things that bothered me much more, like Abercrombie’s “Push-up” bikini tops for 7 year olds (padded tops) last year http://tinyurl.com/6s93f3y  and a few years back, thong underwear in very small sizes featuring a charm on the back center which appealed to the littlest girls (I don’t remember where), not to mention the crotchless undies recently for sale at the “Kids N Teen” shop here in Colorado. http://tinyurl.com/7gbngbc

Those are a few of the more extreme instances. Kinda makes the bikini onesie from Gordman’s seem a bit tamer…or not. Some folks said it didn’t bother them while others were offended. Wherever your thinking falls on this issue, the bottom line is that babies, infants and children are not supposed to be sexy, objectified or sexualized. That being said, realize that this bikini onesie was supposed to be all in fun, it’s intended as a joke, albeit not a very funny one. This is why you’ll never find these types of designs at Wicked Cool Baby.

How do you feel about this bikini onesie? All in fun or wildly inappropriate?

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Wicked Cool Baby.com strives to be cute, funny and maybe a bit naughty without being gross, distasteful or nasty. We believe our baby onesies and toddler tees are a wicked cool and fun addition to any infant’s wardrobe. ~WCB staff

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Caution: Children at Play

Recently, I visited a friend who lives in a suburb very close to mine who has a neighbor that recently started putting out these “Children at Play” signs in front of their house.

Only, said neighbor doesn’t place them on the grass or curb as depicted in the picture. They put one on each side of their property, smack dab in the middle of the street where cars have to literally drive around them, to allow their children to play IN the street, creating what they think is a “play zone” for their kids. I don’t think I have to tell you what a bad idea this is…..or do I?

This neighbor apparently believes this sign will take care of any problems pertaining to their children playing in the street in front of their house, including reducing speeds and preventing accidents. On several occasions, going by this location, there were no parents in sight. “Children at Play” signs give parents and kids a false sense of security, as the sign is assumed to provide protection, when in fact, motorists pay little attention to them.

Manufacturer’s of these signs use parental fear as a selling point saying “Notifying drivers that there are children at play may reduce your child’s risk” These type of “advisory signs” have been proven neither to change driver behavior, nor do anything to improve the safety of children in a traffic setting. What’s more, these types of signs are not sanctioned by the State or Federal Traffic Administrations and in addition, placing them or any other signage blocking a city street is against City Ordinance Codes.

Look, children should not be allowed or encouraged to play in or near the street. Federal standards reject these signs because they openly suggest that playing in the street is acceptable. More importantly, parents should be teaching their children the dangers of playing in or near roadways and strongly discouraging them from doing so, not trying to block off streets areas for them to play in. I realize that some parents are going to err on the side of “It can’t hurt” to place the signs out there, but as I stand and watch 4 and 5 year olds riding trikes in circles between the two “safety” signs without paying any attention to the cars approaching, I think “This can’t end well” while silently hoping it does.

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The above mentioned neighbor is located in a city of Colorado…for the exact city code they are violating, you can view the City of Thornton, Colorado Code of Ordinances here: http://tinyurl.com/77q4hgh

(Article XII - Traffic & Vehicles, DIV 2 – Model Traffic Code, Sec. 38-523, G (113.5) #5)
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What do you think? Have you used these signs before? Tell us your opinion.

It's a Bumpy....Road?

Sometimes, the best intended baby bump keepsake photos seem like a good idea at the time but not so much later. (I have no idea what the tire is for!)

We’ve seen some awkward belly photos in our time, BUT, last week, Vanessa Lachey posted one of the most beautiful baby bump photos I have ever seen….

Vanessa and husband, Nick Lachey are expecting a baby boy in late summer, early fall, September-ish. The couple said on Vanessa’s website, “We can’t wait to meet him soon!”

Nick took this gorgeous picture and Vanessa urged followers on Twitter to “Show me ur bump and I’ll show u mine!” Absolutely stunning!

New Baby TV

ABC’s betting that a new half-hour comedy series, centered around people raising a baby, will be a hit! The premiere of BABY DADDY is scheduled to air this Wednesday, June 20th at 7:30 p.m. CST.

The cast is young and beautiful and is centered around Ben (played by Jean-Luc Bilodeau) who finds a baby girl on his doorstep left by an ex. Since he’s in his 20’s and no doubt has no idea how to raise her, he enlists the help of his mom, Bonnie (Melissa Peterman), brother Danny (Derek Theler), buddy Tucker (Tahj Mowry) and his close female friend Riley (Chelsea Kane) who has a crush on him.

This could be ABC’s answer to NBC’s “Up All Night” that we already love. Could be fun…we’ll see on Wednesday!

Wanna see a sneak peek?   


http://abcfamily.go.com/shows/baby-daddy

Three Mile Island - Baby Style

Actress Natalie Portman was in the celebrity gossip news this week when her 1-year-old son Aleph had what the report called a “Major Meltdown” in a popular eatery in Los Angeles recently. Kudos to Natalie for handling it gracefully; she even offered to pick up the check for a few other tables close by before taking her meal to go. While I surely don’t think her paying for others meals was necessary, it was a very nice gesture.

Everyone has had this experience at some time, probably from both sides; as a mother and as another patron of the restaurant. No matter how careful you plan the baby’s nap or happy time, sometimes it just doesn’t work out. They aren’t feeling good or are just having an off day or their little schedule is off slightly….and they throw a huge fit that you can’t seem to calm. They scream and/or cry no matter what you do. It’s just what babies do.

Give us your go-to plans for this type of meltdown. How do you handle the situation when it’s your little darling that’s throwing a fit? Give us your best advice!

Public diaper changes – That table’s for glasses, not asses!

First, we argue about the mother’s right to breastfeed in public and now, the right to change a diaper anywhere we wish, including a restaurant tabletop? Really?!

There have been numerous news stories about moms being asked to leave restaurants and even one where cops were called to an eatery in New Jersey because a woman decided to change her baby at the table stating there was no changing table in the restroom.

While most people realize, and common sense should tell you, that changing a diaper in a restaurant seating area is beyond disgusting, there are still some who don’t care what most people think. Some people won’t even use the changing table offered in a public bathroom saying it’s dirty. There are people who won’t lay their child on a changing pad on the floor of the bathroom saying it’s filthy, but have no problem contaminating your eating surfaces.

The sense of entitlement is dumbfounding! Talk about unsanitary and offensive. People have to EAT there!

Changing a diaper in a public area of any sort, most especially in a restaurant dining area, whether on the table or in the seats, is unacceptable! This is why we have federal health regulations in public establishments. You have blankets and changing pads, use them, in the bathroom or on the tailgate or seat of your car, in the stroller….they wash. What happened to common courtesy for other people? I know it’s difficult sometimes to find a convenient, clean place to change a diaper but you cannot contaminate public areas and put others at a health risk. There is always an alternative to having to change a diaper at a table.

Lysol®, Purell®, gas mask…anyone?

The Wonder of Childhood

Things that make you go, hmmmm. Who knows where we got all our crazy notions as kids? Some came from parents, family and siblings teasing us and some came from misunderstandings in language and/or explanations. But, sometimes we just got a funny idea about how things worked in our little world all on our own. Everyone remembers something they believed in childhood that was funny or crazy.
For me, I believed the Moon followed me. Yup, all those long drives at night we'd take coming home from
somewhere and I'd be in the back seat, moon hanging low in the sky out the window. Staring at the Moon, it appeared it was moving just as fast as we were as the scenery whizzed past, keeping up with me....until we pulled into the driveway where it would stop and stay outside our house all night. It always made me feel
special.

Sometimes if you ask your kids about things and really listen, you can get the cutest answers; no harm before you explain how it really works, right? Great fodder for their baby books. You'll love sharing discussions with your kids and I'm sure you'll reminisce about things you believed. That's the wonder of childhood.

Your turn:  What did you believe when you were young?

TIME for Mother's Day

Have you seen the new TIME magazine cover by now? Strategically published on Mother’s Day week?

Yes, it’s controversial and provocative. Yes, that’s what TIME wanted it to be. They’re just stirring the conversational pot. I don’t want to talk about whether I’m for this or against; although I have very strong feelings about which side I fall (feel) on.

I am interested in the response it elicits; strong enough for people to post about their feelings on “Attachment Parenting” and “Extended Breastfeeding” on every site and blog it’s mentioned and call each other names and throw snarky comments and insults about. Everyone has a “story” and/or opinion and most can reference some study or another, which, of course, don’t agree. Nutrition aside, definitive statistics are still out on whether Extended BF or AP is psychologically good for a 3-4-5-6 yr old. Societal and cultural influences make a difference to be certain. This certainly isn’t the first (BF) rodeo; there have been those who’ve gone well into the 4th and 5th year before. But this verbal assault of each other, spurred on by TIME asking, “Are you MOM enough?” is sad. Nothing will be decided one way or the other.

Can we take it down a notch and be kinder to each other….especially on Mother’s Day weekend?

The only thing that’s for sure? Time Magazine is selling a lot of magazines this month!

What do you think?  Comments, Questions, Concerns?

Creative Discipline

There are times when you have to think out of the box when doling out punishments with your kids. As you know, not all kids respond to the same things.


Case in point: I knew a certain 8 yr old that was familiar with being sent to her room when she acted up against her little brother. This had become so common (and she had apparently weighed the pros and cons many times) that she wouldn’t even hesitate, she’d just pop him one and head off to her room.

Obviously, this punishment didn’t serve to curb the behavior and Mom had to come up with something more effective. All children are different and sometimes you have to get ‘em where it hurts; what’s most important to them.

Seems cruel though, when you have to take away the birthday party they were to attend next weekend when they’ve been waiting weeks and all their friends are going. Maybe that is a bit stiff for saying a bad word or talking back….BUT maybe it’s about right for heavier infractions like lying or physically hurting other children.

This Mom has decided her creative punishment is a bad attitude jar. http://tinyurl.com/7bp88ay


I’ve known parents that actually ask their child what the punishment should be for what they’ve done…..amazingly enough, most times the kids are actually harder on themselves. Whatever you do, don’t say things like,” You’re never going to the movies again!” or “I’m not making you dinner anymore if you’re not going to eat it!” in the heat of the moment. It’s obviously something you can’t uphold.

Think it through at a time when you’re not mad. What would “speak” to your child most effectively? You know them best after all, so what punishments work for your kids?  -- Donna *WCB

Top Ten Things you Give Up when you're a Parent

10. Free Time - Remember all those hours spent on your hobby?   What hobby?
9. Caring what other people think - Don't need stranger's opinion of whether your child should be wearing a hat or not or what you're feeding them!
8. Vanity - Still wear makeup to the store and gas station? Sweats anyone?
7. Being Less Careful - It was OK for you to ride in the back of Grandpa's pickup growing up but now your children wear helmets for everything!
6. Control over your own home - Where you leave things, safety proof everything, and those glass tables and artsy things are long gone.
5. Peace of Mind - No matter what, you will now worry about everything relating to your kids forever.
4. Sleeping In - Sleep Deprivation is the number one...ca...use...of.........zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
3. Disposable Income - There's always something you need to get or provide for your little ones!
2. Following a Schedule - No matter how hard you try, the only schedule that now matters is the one your child is on....
AND, the number one thing you give up when you're a parent is:

1. Bathroom Time Alone - Your personal Space in now their personal space.  It's futile to hide in there, they will find you!

Celebrity Parent Watching

Why are we so obsessed with what celeb parents are doing? Are we absolutely sure they are doing cool stuff we don’t know about? (in some cases they are) Do you wonder what kind of father Barry Williams is or Bruce Willis? Do you care that Rachel Dratch (SNL), Jewel and Pink had their babies and Tori Spelling had hers but is pregnant again? Hey did you see what Alyssa Milano wore to her baby shower?

Just in case you haven’t heard (not likely) Jessica Simpson, Tori Spelling, Nick Lachey, Kourtney Kardashian and Reese Witherspoon are all PG and it’s rumored that Drew Barrymore is too.

We do have a weird urge to peek into their lives in a voyeuristic way but it feels safe to gawk at the note worthy and sometimes strange behavior of celebs having babies and raising children.

I think we just want to know that they go through the same stuff and worry about the same things we do when junior comes along. We wonder if they have access to more answers or something because of who they are. We look for their human side and compare well…..everything. We secretly think/know we’re doing a better job with our children or we just want to see what we have in common and with whom.

Actually, we may have to admit in some ways they (celebs) have it harder because they are almost constantly in the glass eye focus of someone’s camera, ready at a moment’s notice to take the most un-flattering picture possible. I mean, what would the camera catch if it followed you everyday? Strained peas flung on the ceiling….and in your hair? A poop episode so “explosive” that it literally covered and oozed forth from the new hybrid reusable diapees you’re trying?

So let’s give the celebs some slack but keep watching, it is an interesting show. After all, they have to go through the pregnancy and less-than-glamorous labor, just like everyone else……they do, right?

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The Soundtrack of your Child's Life

We all know that it's a wonderful bonding time when a baby is born and he/she hears the sound of Mom and Dad's voice. It's comforting, bonding, nurturing and neccessary.

As they grow, it's good to be there, guiding and teaching as they move through their little lives exploring and figuring out what this world is all about. You want to protect them, keep them safe and honestly, never let go. As they learn to walk you want to tell them how not to stumble. As they talk you tell them what to say and what not to say.

And all that's is good, but there's value in the listening too. Let your child tell you what they think, how they feel. Watch them play with a new toy and figure it out instead of telling them how it works. Listen to music with them. Remove the high tech buzzing and beeping toys sometimes and just make mud pies together. At the end of the day, at bedtime, ask them what their favorite part of the day was.

You'll be amazed at what they think about, what they say and how insightful they can be. It's cool to see the world through their eyes and you will find that their little personalities always shine through!

Just say "No"

For a small teeny two-letter word, “No” can sure ruin an afternoon if you have little ones. It’s a powerful word. It’s an important word. Why? Because if you don’t learn to say it, your children will never learn to hear it and life will get pretty hard the older they get. Dramatic? Is it?

This word is the beginning of every melt-down, freak-out, kicking and screaming fit your kids will ever pound the floor with. As they get older, it becomes hideous backtalk and disrespectful behavior that you can’t seem to reel in.

The problem is parents no longer know how to say this word. I know… you wanna give your kid everything, including things you perceived your parents denied you. You want to make up for every disappointed time you didn’t make the team or didn’t get that new shiny whatever-it-was.

Recently, the (in)famous Park Slope Parents were in the news again wanting to ban ice-cream vendors from selling their wares in a public park because it was too difficult to deal with their screaming children who wanted ice-cream when they saw them. Really? So now it’s the ice-cream vendor’s fault that you can’t manage your children? Mother’s were exclaiming that their afternoon was ruined because they had to leave with their kids crying! Maybe it should be a learning moment……ya think?

Let’s be real; we all had ice-cream trucks that trolled the neighborhoods all summer long, every day, EVERY DAY and my parents seemed to manage our wants and desires because we certainly didn’t get ice-cream every day. Should we ban grocery stores from putting candy and gum at the front counters? I’ve certainly witnessed many meltdowns from that. We better ban McDonalds from placing their signs on the street too!

When did “no” become such an unspeakable word for kids? My girlfriends kid who’s 10 now, came in from school the other day exclaiming he couldn’t believe this friend at school stays home on the weekends and had never been to Six Flags, Disneyland, WaterWorld or Jungle Jim’s. He was amazed as he’s has been all those places, some multiple times, because Mom has a bad case of “Can’t say No” so they are gone every weekend to do “fun things”.

No one says “no” all the time but you better teach your kids the word or when they grow up (if they grow up) they’ll have a rude awakening when other people (like bosses) and laws and rules and life tells them “no”. It won’t kill them, I promise. And they just might appreciate it more when the “YES” comes!

Truth of Consequences

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve mentally counted along with the mother standing in the grocery line telling her 4 yr old to stop doing whatever he’s doing….1….2….2 ½…. Whose idea was the counting thing anyway? Does it ever work? I’ve never seen it work. I’ve seen kids say, ”3-4-5!” I’ve seen kids laugh and run…I’ve even seen kids stand there staring and waiting to see what’s gonna happen. You know why? Because whatever the parent is counting to is not readily apparent to the child because the parent hasn’t been consistent. The child has no concept of consequences. The counting thing has become a countdown of I’m-getting-ready-to-say-no.

Who decided we shouldn’t punish our kids or get angry when they misbehave? (I’m not talking about spanking or abusiveness) Age appropriateness comes into factor, for sure. As they get a bit older and can understand when told not to do something, aren’t we supposed to parent them in, well, life. After all, there are consequences to everything we do in life until we die. You’re just preparing them when you set boundaries and rules they have to abide by.

Children who learn that rules need to be heeded early on are better behaved in civilized society. We had rules growing up, everyone does. You know, like don’t run with scissors, no drinks in the formal living room, don’t let food fall from your mouth onto the floor purposely, no throwing toys at people, no running around restaurants like it’s romper room, no screaming because you’re not getting your way, no drawing on the walls, I can go on and on. The point is, yes, most times I followed the rules when I was little because I didn’t wanna make Mom and Dad mad. But I didn’t like the consequences of breaking the rules. Believe me the rules were very concise and presented a “clear and present danger” if we didn’t follow them. I already knew what would happen if I chose the opposite because my parents were consistent. And trust me, there was no counting.

I’m also not talking about making your kids scared of you. Make the consequences…. very undesirable. Take the birthday party next weekend away or remove something from their day that they really like. If you’re going to give in once the rules are set, you’ve already lost the battle. Let’s face it, it’s hard to raise children. With most kids, you’ll only have to punish them a few times before they realize you’re serious the next time you tell them not to do something. Then you can leave the counting for your toddler learning his numbers.

Baby’s Got Studs

Is it OK to pierce an infants ears or should we wait until the child can say for themselves. Interestingly enough, this question raised eyebrows and quite a few nasty comments on one of the New York Times blogs the other day. Although this is sometimes a moral thing and sometimes a cultural thing, many people have different opinions on the ideas of poking a (semi)permanent hole in a baby’s ear.

Many were rather snipe-y and pissy and some downright rude. There were even words used like “Mutilation” and phrases like forced “cosmetic alteration”. People actually compared it to circumcising a boy.

Wow, all this judgment over a tiny hole. We’re not talking about tattoos or enhancement surgeries. If you’d like to read the article, find it here,

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/15/babys-first-bling/

I know people who pierced their daughter’s ears at 3 mos. and gals whose parents made them wait until they were teenagers (myself included). I really don’t think either way, it shapes the girl’s life. The bottom line for me is that it’s each parent’s and each family’s decision. It’s up to them as to how they raise their girls and what earring decisions they make. It may not be your ideal but we’re in America, remember...many cultures and all that.

I know you have an opinion….what do you think? To pierce or not to pierce, that is the question…

Kids Say the Darndest Things - Funny or not!

That’s so true that they made a TV show out of it back in the 60’s. Art Linkletter did it first but Cosby did it later (and better IMHO) And while you never dream that the kids are even listening or paying attention sometimes, you find out VERY FAST that they, in fact, are. Seems they can multi-task even when you think they’re singing and playing with their building blocks in the next room.

Some hilarious (and not so hilarious) examples: My nephew accompanies Grandpa into the rest room while the rest of the family and lot of other people mill around in the gift shop while on vacation. Upon exiting the restroom, he announces, “Grandpa farted really loud!”

Upon returning from a fishing trip, a friend of mine had a cooler of fish they had caught and was showing off the fish to the guys in the garage. Repeating something he’d just heard out in the garage, the 3 yr old comes running into the kitchen and yells, “Come on Grandma! Come see the big f*ckin’ fish!”

If you’re not careful, they’re at school telling teachers all sorts of things they heard (or witnessed) at home. Embarrassing things like your weight or something you said under your breath about your MIL; or worse, they’re telling the MIL.

So I think it’s a good idea to fib a little, right? When jr. asks how old you are, tell him 27 even if you’re 35. If your 4 yr old asks what size pants you have when you’re out shopping or why you’re wearing spanx, for God’s sake, don’t use the word fat or overweight, just say something like “Mommy is small size” or “Because Mommy is slim and trim”.

If you wanna see a few clips from Linkletter’s show: http://tinyurl.com/7t2lwsr

In the mean time, tell us a funny one about your kids! Come on, I know you have one! Share, please!

Smoking With Children - What Would You Do?

Friday nights episode of “What would You Do?’ was interesting as the topic of one segment was; If you saw parents out carrying their infant baby in one hand and a cigarette in the other, would you say something to them?


The show was filmed on a boardwalk in New Jersey. Some people said they felt it was none of their business and one man even lit up with the parents. Fortunately, quite a few decided it was in the interest of the child to at least say something to the parents about second hand smoke. Many told the parents about a family member or friend that suffers from lung cancer or chronic bronchial problems. One lady said her husband suffered lung cancer and then later told the show’s host that it was a lie she told just for impact. Many wonderful people showed concern for the child and tried to educate the young couple and yet it is hard sometimes to say something, even if you think it.

We are so much more educated these days about the adverse affects of smoking, both directly inhaled and second-hand that it’s hard to see someone ignore the facts. Adults can choose for themselves but it’s horrifyingly difficult to see a parent with no concern for their tiny baby and his/her delicate developing lungs.

To see a blurb about this show, go here:

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/entertainment/2012/02/parents-smoke-near-baby-would-you-say-something/

How much do you think you could speak up and say to the parents?

The shortest blog entry you'll ever see

Recently, Nicole Ritchie helped out Jessica Simpson by giving her some parenting advice.  I'm speechless....Maybe Jessica can reciprocate by telling Nicole all about Chicken of the Sea.

The Shot heard 'round the Parenting World

Early in February, A father at the end of his rope with his teenage daughter, takes things into his own hands and makes a short video in response to his daughters FB post (to all her friends, family and acquaintances) lamenting how hard her life was and how unfair her parents are to make her do chores without paying her, saying, “I’m not your slave!”


You can see the original video posted on you tube here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl1ujzRidmU

As you can imagine, this video has totally gone viral and there are cheers and jeers alike when the comments are coming down; most on the side of the dad. (just for the record, I commend him).

I realize this has some to do with teen angst and rebellion but it makes me think about parenting and the way problems should be nipped long before it gets to this point, you now, when the kids are much younger. Children need guidance and boundaries from the time they are old enough to understand them. Rules are a moral imperative and it’s the parents job to not only set them but explain why they exist. They should always, of course, be age appropriate, but there’s nothing wrong with teaching you kids that chores are a part of life and are there so everyone contributes to the family and home.

Trust me, you’re not taking away their play time or innocence by having rules and chores. You’re guiding your child to co-exist in the real world, learn responsibility and have empathy for the people/family around them. Children who don’t learn this are self centered, disrespectful and spoiled. It’s very difficult to introduce rules and chores later, down the line when they’re older if they’ve never had to do these things before….

Think it over, in the mean time, we’ll discuss kids earning things they want instead of mom and dad buying them everything on another post for another day.

And to the frustrated dad in the video; everyone who has ever shared oxygen with a teenager feels your pain. A+ for doing what you have to do to get their attention.

The "No" factor

We’ve all seen the Jimmy Fallon commercial for Capital One, probably multiple times, with the baby that says “No”. He’s cute (and the baby is too :) ) but any parent whose youngster has learned the word “No”, knows how annoying it can be to hear it over and over relentlessly.



So what do you do to get them past this stage? First, know that this is normal. As your child becomes more independent and has their own ideas, they can physically resist what they don’t want and they learn the word “No”. They may also ignore you, run away from you and deliberately do what you tell them not to. They are just trying to express themselves. So what can you do?

Try changing the situation: if your child is hungry or tired, deal with that first and make sure bed times and meals are consistent.

If this is a new situation: Give them time to adjust to one change before introducing another.

Encourage cooperation: Be specific as to what you want and tell them what to do instead of what not to do. Teach them the words to express their feelings and don’t be confusing.

In the end, keep it in perspective. Don’t get upset, your stress won’t help. Take a break and reduce your own anxiety. They call it the terrible twos and most children gradually become more cooperative on their own between 3 and 4 years.

It’s a normal part of growing up, all you have to do is make it through those “no” years. And remember, learning to say “no” is important and when they’re older, you’ll want them to be able to say “no” in the right situations.

Do your kids behave better for other people than they do for you?

Most parents have experienced this and asked themselves this question. Why does little Johnny follow the rules at other peoples houses but goes ballistic and throws a tantrum as soon as we leave? Why is little Mary an angel for the babysitter and then trips an emotional whine-fest the minute you get home? Makes you crazy sometimes, right?


I think for most kids, it’s the fact that they aren’t totally comfortable with the “alternate care-givers” and don’t feel free to let it all hang out. They know how they’re supposed to act and can keep it together for the time being, things are new and interesting in their environment and consequences are virtually unknown so they don’t push the envelope as much.

Familiar can be the challenge, but familiar is also the safe place with Mom and Dad where they can work out their little mental personas and how they fit into their world and the people around them. The great news is you get to see all the wonderful aspects of their little personalities when they are comfortable with Mom and Dad. Stuff the other people don’t always get to see. The intimate bonding stuff; the warm cuddly, huggable stuff……the parental reward stuff.

Breast Feeding in Public or Going where no Man has Gone Before

I guess we’re gonna go there…..yes, talking about breastfeeding in public. Very controversial and everyone’s got an opinion. Not long ago, an article was posted at the Huffington Post about an incident where a mother was breastfeeding her 5 month old baby in front of everyone in court. She was covered and in the back of the room. The judge found it inappropriate and kicked her out of the courtroom. If you’d like to read this article you can find it here:


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/14/natalie-hegedus-courtroom-breastfeeding_n_1089271.html

This begs the question; Are there any places that are inappropriate for breastfeeding (even if covered) or should a mother have complete carte blanche to breastfeed anywhere she pleases, covered or not?

True, it’s not illegal to breastfeed in public (at least I think not in most places, I don't know) I kinda feel that as long as the mother is covered in a public place there shouldn’t be a problem…anywhere. I realize that this is also not a popular stance either, and latching is difficult when covered at times, but I feel, if that mother wants to be uncovered, she should find a more private place to feed her child. Notice I didn’t suggest a bathroom (although some have clean sitting rooms adjacent)….maybe an office or conference room or chair in a less traveled hallway. It’s not about shame or dirty, it’s about modesty and respectfulness. Some people have no problem being nude either but it’s not allowed in public. I know it’s a natural thing but so are lots of bodily functions that I don’t want to see in public. Just cover up and no one can say they saw anything.

I know my opinion isn’t everyone’s but I do think it’s common, and I know if you’re a mom who has a breastfeeding infant, you may not agree. Breastfeed anywhere you want, I just don’t wanna see it…why should your rights trump my rights?

Step Away from the Plastic Surgeon

Really!.....REALLY! 

It was a great Christmas at the Burge household this year.


Sarah Burge, known as the UK's "Human Barbie" gave her 7 yr old daughter a liposuction voucher for $7,000 for her present. Sarah herself, sadly, has had many multiple surgeries stating,"I've had half a million pounds" worth of surgery! So proud of this she is!

A grown woman is one thing but starting her daughter at this young age, filling her mind with thoughts that's she not perfect enough is sickening. Of course, this is the woman who is teaching her daughters to pole dance and saving up for the boob job she's promised.

I know! How about saving for something more important, like THEIR EDUCATION! Read more about this horrid Mom at  http://tinyurl.com/737kgq9  if you have the stomach.  Hey, that's an idea!  How about a voucher for a tummy tuck for the 8th birthday?