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Breast Milk Storage after Pumping
Given the complications and busyness of modern life, expressing breastmilk for storage has become increasingly common. Particularly after maternity leave as women re-enter the workforce, it is common for them to pump and store their breastmilk. How you store breastmilk, however, depends on how you want to use it and when.
What Types Of Containers Should You Use To Store Breastmilk?
There are two common ways to store breastmilk: bottle and bag. More specifically, most women will choose to store breastmilk either in a plastic or glass bottle, or in a sterile, sealable bag. These will then get placed into the refrigerator or the freezer, where they will remain until used for feeding.
How Much Breastmilk Should You Store In Each Container?
It is recommended that most women only store the amount of breastmilk that they are going to use in a given feeding session. For instance, if your baby consumes roughly five ounces of breastmilk during a given feeding session, you should store that amount in each container. In general, most women will need to store milk in small quantities between one and five ounces. This is particularly important if you are freezing breastmilk, as it does not make sense to unthaw breastmilk and store it again.
How Long Can Breastmilk Be Stored?
It is important that breastmilk does not go bad and lose the many health benefits it provides. Because of this, there are many guidelines for the storage of breastmilk, particularly with respect to breastmilk storage time. There is also a difference between expressed breastmilk storage and pumped breastmilk storage.
How To Store Breastmilk? - Storage Guidelines
The following guidelines apply for how to store breastmilk at home in both refrigerated and frozen environments:
You can store your breastmilk at room temperature (up to 25 degrees Celsius) for a maximum of four hours.
At temperatures below four degrees Celsius), you can store breastmilk in the fridge for up to 24 hours. In colder climates or regions, breastmilk can sometimes remain in the refrigerator for three to five days, but in hot climates, the opening and closing of refrigerator doors makes longer storage more difficult.
In smaller refrigerators with only a freezer compartment, it is recommended to keep breastmilk for only two weeks.
In an insulated cooler or box filled with ice-packs (such as the one you might transport to and from work), you should only keep breastmilk stored for a maximum of 24 hours.
In a freezer (temperatures of around -18 degrees Celsius), breastmilk can generally be stored for three to six months, taking into account the opening and closing of the freezer and the climate you are located in.
Table 1: Breast Milk Storage Chart
Freshly expressed milk
Warm room
80-90°F/27-32°C
Up to 4 hours
Room temperature
61-79°F/16-26°C
Up to 8 hours
(less is better)
Insulated cooler with ice packs
59°F/15°C
Up to 24 hours
Refrigerated milk (Store away from door)
Refrigerator (fresh milk)
32-39°F/0-4°C
Up to 8 days
(under 3 days is best)
Refrigerator (thawed milk)
32-39°F / 0-4°C
Up to 24 hours
Frozen milk (Store at back, away from door)
Freezer compartment of small refrigerator
Varies
Up to 2 weeks
Self-contained freezer unit of a refrigerator/freezer
<39°F / <4°C
Up to 6 months
Separate deep freeze
0°F / -18°C
Up to 12 months
(6 months ideal)
How To Freeze Breastmilk?
Breastmilk should be frozen as soon as possible after it has been expressed, and stored at temperatures of around -18 degrees Celsius.
The following rules and recommendations apply for breastmilk that is being frozen:
If you are freezing the milk, leave some space at the top of the bag, since frozen milk will often expand during freezing.
Never store the breastmilk uncovered, and make sure that bags or bottles are sealed tightly.
Frozen, stored milk will often separate, so when it is removed just make sure to give a little shake to get it to mix back together again once it has been taken out of storage.
Store frozen milk at the back of the freezer; this will minimize contact with outside temperatures and allow the milk to be frozen for the longest period possible.
How Can You Thaw Frozen Breastmilk?
To thaw breastmilk, you should keep the breastmilk in the refrigerator and let it sit for around 12 hours. This is usually best done overnight and in advance of the day where you will need to feed your baby, given the time involved in the thawing process.
The following rules and recommendations apply to the thawing of breastmilk:
You should avoid, whenever possible, leaving the breastmilk out at room temperatures to thaw.
Never refreeze breastmilk that has already been thawed.
For faster thawing, it is acceptable to keep the breastmilk under hot water and slowly increase the temperature as means of thawing.
Never attempt to put the breastmilk on the stove or in the microwave as a means to thaw the milk.
How To Warm Breastmilk?
To warm breastmilk, you should place it in a container of hot water where it can absorb heat from some of the surrounding liquid. First, heat up the water, that you are going to use, in a small container. Then, place the container of frozen milk in the container to warm up.
The following rules and recommendations apply for the thawing of breastmilk:
If you just want to heat up the milk for your child’s consumption, try using a bottle warmer.
Never heat up breastmilk by placing it on the stove or in the microwave.
You should not try to store again breastmilk which has been already warmed.
How To Store Thawed Breastmilk?
Thawed breastmilk should be stored in the refrigerator, as it is usually best to keep the milk at cooler temperatures at all times.
Milk that has thawed in the refrigerator should only be kept there for a maximum of 24 hours after thawing has completed. (This will usually mean 36 hours after you first place from the freezer into the refrigerator to thaw.)
You should not attempt to refreeze thawed breastmilk.
Only thaw as much breastmilk as your child will consume during a given day, otherwise, it will likely go bad (and it will not be as fresh).
What About the Taste And Odour Of Thawed Breastmilk?
Breastmilk has generally not gone bad unless it tastes sour or smells particularly bad. Most children will not notice smell or odour, and they would react more to a sour taste than to smell. Some milk will specifically go bad because of lipase, a normal breastmilk enzyme that some mothers will produce in higher quantities than others. When thawed, this can cause the breastmilk to smell rancid or soapy, but this will often go unnoticed by infants (though some will refuse to drink it). Changes in the smell and odour of breastmilk can also be the result of changes in the mother’s diet or health (such as through medications, diet, drinking or smoking).
How Can You Store Breastmilk At Work?
You can store breastmilk at work by refrigerating it in sealed containers and then transporting it to your home in small coolers that are refrigerated with ice packs. You should always make sure to clearly label it, both so that it is easier to store when you get home, and so that it is not confused if in public storage. You should always try to store transported breastmilk as soon as possible after arriving home.
Can You Add Fresh Expressed Breast Milk To Stored Frozen Breast Milk?
You can add recently expressed breastmilk to frozen or refrigerated milk, but only if you expressed it earlier in the same day. Nevertheless, you should cool the expressed breastmilk before adding it to frozen or chilled breastmilk that you had already expressed. You should never add warm breastmilk to frozen milk, as this will cause it to thaw and affect its lifespan.
More Storage Tips
The following are some other general tips for the storage and use of breastmilk:
Breastmilk can vary in colour. Some milk will appear bluish, yellowish, or sometimes even brownish.
It is normal for breastmilk to separate (with the fatty cream often moving towards the top. Give it a small shake to get it to mix back together.
You should smell the milk before feeding it your baby; if it smells particularly bad, you should not give it to them.
Always consider exactly how much breastmilk you will need and store accordingly.
Make sure to label everything so that you do not waste breastmilk or use milk on different days (thus leading to the possibility of spoiling).
Breastmilk storage is an important reality of life for modern mothers, particularly those in the workplace. While it can be a complicated and time-consuming process, mothers should take care to ensure breastmilk is stored correctly and safely. There are many guidelines for how to do this, and they depend on the method of storage, the location of the storage unit and how much breastmilk you are storing. Paying attention to these conditions will allow the breastmilk to be kept for the longest amount of time possible, and allow for no degradation in quality for your child.
Also read: Most Common Breastfeeding Problems & Their Solutions Read more
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Does Essential Oils Help to Induce Labour?
Having a baby can be an emotive roller coaster – exciting, intense, scary, amazing, all rolled into one. Most expecting mothers may like to consider natural ways to ease their discomfort during labour. Essential oils can be one such natural means to not only combat labour pain but also to induce it. They are generally considered safe and are quite easy to use. However, it may be best to implement them only after consulting an OB/GYN.
What is the Induction of Labour?
Labour induction is a method of stimulating childbirth which can be brought about by drug treatment or non-pharmaceutical procedures. The labour processes like breaking of water, the opening of the cervix, starting contractions are usually triggered artificially. A pregnant woman who is overdue or has certain health conditions may be offered induction of labour to rule out any likely risk to her health as well as her baby’s. In such an incidence, she may not be able to select the process of induction. But some moms-to-be can opt for it voluntarily too. In any case, it is always advisable to discuss with an OB the possibility of applying essential oils in the instance of being medically induced.
Should You Use Essential Oils for Inducing Labour?
Essential oils can benefit an expectant mom in ways modern medicine may fail. Essential oils can be a great opportunity when practising elective induction, particularly in less risky pregnancies. Some of its advantages may include:
1. It Soothes
Essential oils are believed to calm both the mind and body of an expectant mom thus making the labour process easy.
2. It Energizes
During labour, a lot of energy gets consumed usually leaving a pregnant woman drained and exhausted. Essential oils may not only alleviate some of the pain but also help a pregnant woman to feel energised and more focussed to push effectively.
3. It Relaxes
These oils can help generate the feelings of relaxation and peacefulness which can be primarily useful in a volatile situation like labour. They can create a sense of control given the unpredictable nature of the labour process.
4. It Heals
These oils may encourage the course of healing naturally by taking the edge off postpartum emotions like depression. They may thus promote the overall well-being of new mothers by helping them become fitter faster.
Which Essential Oils are Good for Labour Induction?
Some of the best essential oils for labour induction are:
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is a versatile oil known for its many health benefits.
Pros
Lavender oil can successfully calm and relax a woman during labour thereby reducing an otherwise distressing process. Only two drops of this magical oil can shorten the duration of labour at every stage of its development. You can also start using the oil towards the end of the third trimester to set the stage and lessen feelings of anxiety.
Cons
Lavender oil can cause burning if used undiluted. It can also prompt nausea if used in large quantities.
2. Clary Sage Oil
Aromatherapists popularly use it for medicinal purposes.
Pros
The oil may allow the muscles to release tension and relax thus naturally charging up contractions. It can also bring about relief from pain and uneasiness. Moreover, it doesn’t possess an overwhelming scent.
Cons
Since it works fast, it is recommended to use it only for induction in the supervision of a doctor. It should not be applied neat.
3. Jasmine Oil
It is a widely used natural remedy for dealing with emotional stress and anxiety.
Pros
Jasmine oil, with its sweet alluring smell, can offer pain relief during each phase of labour thus hastening it with relative comfort. It can also intensify contractions and ensure smooth advancement of labour.
Cons
It should be used only for labour induction and not in pregnancy. Some women may find its sweet smell irritating.
4. Rose Oil
It is commonly recognised for its healing properties.
Pros
The aromatic oil can work swiftly to help proceed labour faster by stepping up the contractions. It can also provide quick relief from pain.
Cons
It should not be applied neat. Some women may feel repulsed by its sweet smell.
5. Frankincense Oil
It is well identified for its potential health assistances like relieving chronic stress and reducing pain.
Pros
It can prevent damage to the perineum and help diminish the pain during labour. Its calming abilities can foster relaxed muscles and hurry the contractions.
Cons
It is not suggested to use it undiluted.
6. Evening Primrose Oil
It is a potent healing essential oil as it contains gamma-linolenic acid.
Pros
It can have a significant impact on softening the cervix which is usually the first step in labour induction. It can further fasten the progression of labour. It can also prove useful in managing postpartum feelings.
Cons
It can cause thinning of the blood. It can also give rise to digestive issues or headaches during labour.
7. Peppermint Oil
It is known to be valuable in treating several health conditions.
Pros
Its use can bring immediate relief from pain. It can also help in combating nausea during labour. Its merits can extend even after childbirth for postpartum conditions.
Cons
Some people can find its scent a bit overpowering.
8. Geranium Oil
It is acknowledged for improving the mental, physical and emotional health.
Pros
Most people find its earthy, nutty scent comforting. Therefore it can relax the tense muscle and re-energise sparking off the labour process.
Cons
Some people may have issues with its smell.
How to Use Essential Oil for Induction of Labour?
You can use the following blends of essential oils for labour induction:
1. Rose and Clay Sage Oil Blend
This blend has a divine scent which can work wonders.
Ingredients
Rose oil
Clary sage oil
Sweet almond oil
Vanilla oil
Method
Combine a few drops of rose oil, clary sage oil, sweet almond oil.
Next, add the vanilla oil.
Apply the mix on the tummy to bring forth contractions.
2. Lavender Oil Blend
This fantastic blend can work wonderfully to boost things naturally.
Ingredients
Lavender oil- two drops
Chamomile oil- a drop
Shea butter
Method
Mix all the ingredients.
Apply twice in a day, preferably morning and evening, to relax and calm the stressed muscles.
3. Peppermint Oil Blend
This fantastic blend can keep the pain and anxiety in check ensuring comfort and relaxation.
Ingredients
Peppermint oil
Chamomile oil
Frankincense oil
Coconut oil
Method
Merge all the elements properly.
Apply the blend on the aching body parts to get respite.
Ways to Apply Essential Oils to Induce Labour
Some of the ways you can apply essential oils for labour pain can be as follows:
1. Diffusers
Some essential oils like rose oil, peppermint oil, chamomile oil, lavender oil, Ylang Ylang oil, orange oil do better in diffusers. Merely place a diffuser beside your bed and pour a few drops of your preferred essential oil in it. You may also opt for a portable diffuser so that you can carry it along with you.
2. Topical Application
Dilute a couple of drops of your chosen essential oil by mixing a carrier oil like olive oil, sweet almond oil, coconut oil or jojoba and apply it on the neck, shoulders and stomach to calm and soothe your senses.
Things to Keep in Mind While Using Essential Oil for Labour Induction
Certain things that you may like to keep in mind while using essential oils for labour and delivery are:
Be sure that you use only pure and therapeutic grade oils.
It may bear well to have a doctor around when you use essential oil for labour induction as a precautionary measure.
All essential oils may not suit you. Find out which one will help your situation the most.
Always remember to dilute the oil before applying it topically.
Refrain from over-using it. One or two drops are generally enough when applying topically and three or four drops while diffusing.
Natural birthing options are gaining popularity among pregnant women as it is beneficial for both the baby and the mom. Essential oils can be a safe technique to support the progression of labour without any side-effects. This way, an expectant mother can avoid medications and experience a stress-free delivery.
Also Read:
How Reflexology Helps to Induce Labour
What kind of Interventions Done in Labour and Delivery
Type of Dress You Should Wear for Labour and Delivery Read more
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Tejasvini Sanket Sarjine
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Burns in Children - Types, Causes and Treatments
After the first few months as a newborn, the baby transforms into a more active, independent being. This can be a relief and a delight for parents, but there are some negative sides to this growth too - an increased probability of accidents occurring.
No matter how well you look after the child, he is sure to be on the receiving end of some physical harm at some point or the other. Such accidents occur as a result of his innate curiosity, and the desire to explore the world around him with newfound energy. The end result may simply be the child falling down and bruising himself, or something more serious, like burns.
Burns and scalds occur as a result of contact between the skin of the child and a high-temperature substance. Burns are caused by dry heat, while scalds are caused due to hot, wet substances coming in contact with the skin. Your child is increasingly susceptible to burns, as his skin is still delicate and not as tough as adult skin. Therefore, something that is of the right temperature for you might end up causing serious burns if it comes in contact with your baby’s skin.
In this article, let us take a deeper look at burns, and how to react to them.
Common Causes of Burns in Kids?
There are a few common causes of burns in the case of babies, some of which are given below.
Scalds are more common in the case of children, as they can be caused due to the tipped-over coffee cups, hot fluids, steam or even hot water burns in babies.
Dry burns are possible if the baby gets too close to hot objects, like the fireplace or curling irons.
Chemical burns are a possibility in the case of children too, as they can be caused due to the child swallowing chemicals like the drain cleaner, watch batteries or spilling bleach onto the skin.
Electrical burns can occur as a result of the child coming in contact with live objects, like plug sockets or wires.
Overexposure to the sun can also cause burns in children.
Types of Burns
Burns can be differentiated into three types, depending on the degree and extent to which it has affected the contact area.
1. First Degree Burn
This is the mildest type of burn and the one that occurs most frequently in the case of children. The skin appears reddish and sometimes a bit swollen, as the nerves underneath the skin become irritated. Only the outer layer of the skin will be damaged, and the burn may have the appearance of a sunburn.
2. Second Degree Burn
The second-degree burn is more serious than a first-degree burn, as the layers underneath the epidermis have also been affected. Blisters and swelling are common, and the experience is a very painful one for children.
3. Third Degree Burn
The most serious type of burn, the high temperatures will have resulted in the injury going extremely deep under the skin to affect many layers. It is classified as a medical emergency and requires the immediate attention of medical professionals. The skin appears to be charred and white, and the surrounding areas of the burn may hurt badly. However, the affected area itself might not hurt much- this is because the nerves underneath will have been damaged due to the high temperatures.
How to Treat Burns in Children?
The most important step in treating burns in children is to separate him from the source of the heat as quickly as possible. In case the burns are caused because parts of your child are on fire, wrap him in a blanket or smother him with your own body, and roll him on the ground to extinguish the flames. In case of a chemical burn, you need to ensure that the chemical is removed from the body entirely before removing any clothes- so run the affected area under cool water for at least ten minutes. Electrical burns require you to take the baby away from the source of the shock, using a non-metallic object. Never throw water at him, as it can only worsen the condition of the child.
The methods of baby burn treatment depend upon which degree the burn is:
1. Treating First Degree Burn
Remember to take off the clothes in the injured area, before flushing it with water (chemical burns are an exception). Cold water has to be run over the affected area for at least five minutes until you think that the pain has subsided. Alternatively, you can apply a cool, wet cloth over the area. Ice, butter or any sort of powder should not be applied over the area. Check for any signs of infection occurring in the affected area.
2. Treating Second Degree Burns
In case the second-degree burn is a light one, you need to follow the same steps as above to reduce the effects of the injury. Take care not to break any blisters at the site as it may result in infections in the area. Pain relievers like acetaminophen can be given to the child, after consulting with the doctor. The doctor may also prescribe topical ointments to be applied over the affected area, like Silvadene. Exposure to the sun should also be limited until the burn is healed.
3. Treating Third Degree Burns
Large second-degree burns and third-degree burns have to be treated similarly and are classified as medical emergencies. If the clothes in the area are still smouldering, ensure that they do not stick to the skin when you try to remove the clothing. If it is possible, raise the affected areas of his body over his chest, and apply a cool, wet cloth on the area. After that, you can cover the affected area using sterile cloth after patting the area dry. You should refrain from applying ice, butter or toothpaste, as it can aggravate the extent of the injury. Rush to the doctor immediately, for attention from medical professionals.
Immediate Cautionary Steps at Home
Here are some of the steps to get relief from burns at home.
Soak the affected area with cool water (never use ice).
Remove any clothing around the affected area, if it has not gotten stuck to the skin.
Cover the affected area using a sterile cloth, like gauze. Do not break any blisters that may have appeared.
Give something to relieve the pain, but only if you are sure about the medicine and the dosage. Consult a doctor.
Home Remedies for Skin Burn in Kids
There are a few household items that you can use as an immediate remedy for the burns, and some of those have been listed below.
Cold Water: This is a no-brainer- cold water has to be run over the affected area immediately before you do anything else to alleviate his pain.
Aloe Vera: Applying aloe vera using a damp gauze pad can help stop the inflammation, and reduces swelling and pain in the area.
Toothpaste: After you have run cold water over the area, you can apply a layer of toothpaste over the affected area- ensure that the area is dry before you carry out the process.
Silverex Cream: This is used as a medicine to treat light burns on the skin, and prevent infections from occurring in the area. The cream is to be applied two times a day for the first few days.
Tea Bags: They contain tannic acid, which does a great job of soothing the pain and taking the heat out of the burn. Place a set of cool, wet tea bags on the affected area for around half an hour for great results.
Coconut Oil: Not only is coconut oil great in taking the heat out of paediatric burns, but it also has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that can prevent an infection from popping up in the affected area.
Milk: The fat and proteins present in milk soothes burns, and helps in healing the baby burn
When to Seek Medical Help?
You should take your child to the doctor if the burn is anything other than a minor first-degree one or if the size of the burn is larger than two inches in diameter, rush over to the emergency room. In case the burn affects areas like the hands, face or the genitals, or if the cause is an electrical one, it will be better to see the doctor immediately.
Burns are common among children when they grow up, as they are always knocking things over and unknowingly touching everything around them. However, in most cases, the result is something minor like baby burn blisters on the fingers or small burn marks on the body. There is a potential for higher degree burns to occur too- therefore, ensure that you follow the right steps and pay the doctor a visit if you feel that the burn is a serious one.
Also Read: Childproofing Checklist Read more
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10 Christmas Tree Decorations Your Kids Will Love Making
The holiday season is here, and Christmas is almost upon us. Why not give your Christmas tree some extra love this season? Instead of buying ornaments for the tree, make them at home!
Now that the winter air is heavy with Christmas spirit, it’s time to look for a tree and decorate it before you pile gifts beneath. If you’ve been using the usual Christmas ornaments to decorate your tree year after year, why not try something different this year? You can design your own ornaments at home and ask the kids to chip in.
Check out these easy-to-make Christmas tree ornaments to add a personal touch to your home's decor. Handmade spells love - exactly what you want to share this month! Let this year's Christmas be the year of children's Christmas tree decorations. Here are some of the best homemade Christmas ornaments ideas.
Get your children to create easy-to-make Christmas tree ornaments to add a personal touch to your home's decor.
10 Homemade Christmas Tree Ornaments for Kids
1. Cute Little Snowmen
Design tiny snowmen for the Christmas tree to add a fun element to your tree. Cut out felt bodies for your snowmen, keeping his eyes, hat, and buttons black. Use cotton balls to stuff him up and give him a straight-from-the-Pole look. You can also add a button-down front for a cheeky snowman!
2. Holly Bunches
This is one of the easiest Christmas tree decorating ideas for kids - but a classic one nevertheless. All you need are the holly bunches you used last year for Christmas. This season, use them to make little hanging gift boxes! You can also add holiday-themed stickers from a store and glitter baubles. Voila! You’ll have handfuls of amazing new ornaments for your Christmas tree in a short time.
3. 3D Stars with Cookie Cutters
This is another simple Christmas tree ornament. Using star-shaped cookie cutters, ask your older children to trace stars on cardboard. Have them cut them out carefully and stick coloured and patterned paper over them. Fold in half and stick two or three stars together. What you should be left with are 3D stars that look wonderful when caught in the breeze.
Source: Pinterest
4. Gift Wrap with Rudolph
Forget wrapping small boxes with paper to hang on the tree. This year, let your kids create Rudolph the Reindeer labels! Hand them colourful ribbons to tie around the gifts and use them to adorn the Christmas tree. You can also use this idea to dispatch or hand-deliver beautiful Christmas gifts that are almost too stunning to unpack!
Source: Pinterest
5. Stocking Fun
When you're working on handmade Christmas tree ornaments that are cute and fun to create, stockings made of felt paper and ribbons are a must. Cut out two pieces of felt and stitch them together using ribbons. Give your kids free reign over colour combinations and decorating the stockings. Though it’s not a suitable craft for toddlers, older children who know the basics of stitching can easily do them.
6. Initials on Snowflakes
Design pretty snowflakes using coloured paper and cardboard. Decorate them with ribbons and glitter. Adorn the centre of the snowflakes with initials of your family members. Your kids might need some assistance in making the snowflakes though you can leave the writing of initials to them. Check this out for origami and paper-folding Christmas crafts that anyone can excel at!
Source: Pinterest
7. Paper House Christmas Ornament
Another fun Christmas ornament you can make with your kids is paper houses. Take a white paper and cut the four walls with windows, and make the roof with a chimney. Stick the four walls and the roof together to make a small house and hang it on your Christmas tree using a thread. Don't forget to leave the bottom of the house open to place a light inside when you decorate your Christmas tree.
Source: Pinterest
8. DIY Yarn Ornaments
Using cookie cutters trace the shape on a styrofoam sheet. Stick needles on all the edges and around the shape of the ornament. Take a long piece of yarn and dip it in glue. Stick the soaked thread on the outline of the shape traced on the styrofoam. Then wrap the yarn as you like, taking it around the needles. Stick the end of the yarn carefully and repeat this process for different shapes. Let these dry overnight. Once the ornaments are dry and stiff, remove the needles and gently detach the ornament from the styrofoam using a knife. Make sure you are prepared for things to get messy as sticky hands are definitely a part of this DIY Christmas tree craft.
9. Felt Christmas Tree
This simple Christmas ornament is super easy to make, and your kids will love decorating these small Christmas trees before they get to decorate the real one. All you have to do is draw the outline of small Christmas trees on a felt fabric and cut out them out. Stick two felt Christmas trees together, stuff them with cotton, and attach the thread on top. Once they are ready, let your kids decorate these miniature trees with colourful buttons and stickers.
10. Popsicle Sticks Ornaments
Popsicle sticks are the ultimate crafting item that can be easily found. Gather your kids and make them stick popsicle sticks in different shapes to make reindeers, candy cane, and Christmas trees. Don't forget to attach a piece of thread to each one so that you can easily decorate your Christmas tree with your kids' artistic expression.
These Christmas ornaments for kids will be a hit this Christmas season. Candy cane made of paper and cloth, reindeer faces made with bottle caps and wrapping paper–go ahead and experiment with different ideas to make great ornaments for your Christmas tree. Don't forget to ask your children for ideas. Their little minds may be bubbling with creative designs!
What are you making together this Christmas? Read more
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International Literacy Day 2021 - Date, History, and Significance of the Day
Did you know that four countries reported a 100% literacy rate in 2021? That’s quite an achievement, isn’t it? We also had over thirty nations reporting over 99% literacy rates; however, several developing and underdeveloped countries continue to struggle in this arena. The world literacy rate is a constant reminder that the education system across the world needs attention. To re-emphasise this and highlight the current factors that affect world literacy, UNESCO established the International Literacy Day in the 1960s. Read on to know more!
When Is International Literacy Day Celebrated?
International Literacy Day is celebrated on the 8th of September every year.
History of International Literacy Day
Literacy is a fundamental human right, and as strange as it may seem, everyone doesn’t know this. To remind people of this and the importance of literacy, UNESCO established the International Literacy Day in 1966. The day has been observed every year since the 8th of September, 1967, to promote the literacy agenda towards a literate and sustainable society.
Why Is International Literacy Day Celebrated?
Education is a fundamental human right, yet many are not given the opportunity to study, and some have to drop out of school. Most developing and underdeveloped countries face substantial challenges when it comes to literacy, despite there being improvements in basic education.
Other factors, such as population, socioeconomic status, gender inequality, poverty, corruption, emigration, etc., also affect school enrolment and/or dropout rates. Thus, a large number of the adult and youth population struggle through reading, writing, and comprehending the current events that are shaping the world today.
Literacy is essential for human and social development. It helps us develop the ability to learn new concepts and gain different skills, which are extremely useful in improving standards of living. Literacy has a direct impact on health and income, helps create jobs, improves the economy of the country, and promotes equality, democracy, and peace. It also helps individuals gain confidence, develop self-esteem, and work towards enhancing their quality of life. These are some of the primary reasons why Literacy Day is important, and why it is celebrated every year.
What Is the Scale of Literacy in the World?
According to UNESCO, over 770 million adults, most of whom are women, cannot read and write, even though the world’s literacy rate has improved over the past 50 years. According to worldpopulationreview, the world literacy rate for the global population over 15 years of age is a little over 86%.
What is the Theme of International Literacy Day?
This year, the theme of International Literacy Day is “Literacy for a human-centred recovery: Narrowing the digital divide”.
The theme aims to bring people’s focus to the shift that learning and education had to take during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the digital divide that persists in terms of infrastructure, connectivity, and technology. This year, the spotlight is on the interaction between literacy and digital skills, and making technology-enabled learning meaningful and inclusive for all.
Activities to Do on International Literacy Day
You can celebrate International Literacy Day in so many creative ways! Here are some of them:
1. Attending Fun Reading and Writing Workshops
These can be highly beneficial to encourage the youth as well as non-literate adults to read and write. You may choose to have a theme, or let the participants explore anything under the sun as their subject and share their knowledge through poetry, essays, stories, etc.
2. Playing Games and Puzzles
Games can add a fun element to learning! For small kids, educational toys are well-recommended as they are engaging, and kids may not even realise that they’re learning something in the process. For older kids and adults, games such as Scrabble, hangman, Sudoku, crosswords, Pictionary, brainteasers, chess, cryptic and logic puzzles, trivia, riddles, etc., can make them rattle their brains and revisit their books.
3. Journaling
This activity is perfect for people from any age group who can write and read. It is a great way to vent your feelings and thoughts to relieve stress and anxiety. It’s also a fabulous tool for self-reflection, keeping thoughts organised, and meeting goals. It comes in handy when making notes or setting reminders; thus, it can help you lead an organised life.
4. Joining a Book Club
Joining a reading club can help you connect with other people who share your interests. Book clubs facilitate continual learning through discussions, and a deeper understanding of the topics.
5. Enrolling at the Nearest Library
You can get yourself a membership at your local library and get unlimited access to the wealth of knowledge hidden in all the books they have! Nowadays, some libraries even provide access to the internet. It’s the number-one place to form study groups as well.
There are many more ways to celebrate International Literacy Day. These ideas are great for beginners, and when you’re ready to explore further, you can try taking weekend classes, volunteering as a teacher, tutoring adults, etc. Encourage everyone to read and write, as it provides the foundation of life.
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Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
8 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
7 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. I am having hb level 8.6, how to improve my hb level
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
2 mins ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Please eat iron and calcium rich food items like spinach and pomegranate. You can also take iron rich supplements but only after consulting with your doctor. Please drink Shaadmani Blue fusion green tea which is good in this condition. Also take eggs and chicken and drink chicken soup. Please take lots of green vegetables and dairy products and soaked almonds.
Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. Bread feeding mother can have green tea
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. absolutely no problem to have green tea ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. In my growth scan doctor found that 2 round cord has been partly around baby necks. Is there any problem with this. will I get normal delivery?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. A lot of times normal delivery is actually seen in these cases also if the doctor is quick and the child cooperate then yes normal delivery is very much possible but some doctors don’t take a chance with the health of your child and so they normally suggest C-section so let’s see what’s your situation by the end when you are into your labour
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
55 mins ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
53 mins ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
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