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4 to 6 Months Old Baby Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is very crucial for a baby as all their vital organs and bodily functions require a good amount of rest in order to develop. As a parent, it is important that you ensure your child gets a good amount of sleep by observing their sleep patterns and ensuring they do not stray from a regular routine.
There are ways in which a parent can establish good baby sleeping habits and it will require some effort on your part to identify these patterns in your child.
Video: 4 to 6 Month Old Baby’s Sleep Pattern
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRUniNQct6o
What is My Baby's Sleep Pattern?
Every baby is different and you need to be sensitive to your baby's needs and patterns so that both of you get the rest that you deserve. The good thing is, you can try and teach your baby how to achieve a proper sleep pattern, which will take care of your baby's complete sleep requirements for the day and also give you much-needed rest.
A 4 month old baby sleep pattern can differ from a baby who is slightly older, say, a 10-11-month-old baby, so watch out for this.
By around 4-6 months, your baby will begin getting used to a regular sleep pattern. There are instances where some infants might require breast-feeding at night, but the frequency of this happening tends to reduce.
How Much Sleep Does My Baby Need? (4-6 Months)
Babies at this stage and age, generally sleep around twelve to sixteen hours a day. This includes the longer night-time sleep, with two naps in the day.
During The Day:
On an average, daytime sleep is around three to four hours, spread throughout the day. The need for naps during the day may reduce as your baby grows older and her sleep regularises.
During The Night:
At night, babies typically log around 10 hours of sleep. By the time babies are 6 months old, most of them sleep through the night for 9 hours, or maybe even longer.
How To Establish Good Baby Sleeping Habits
You can start any bedtime routine which works in order to get your baby to sleep. A few soothing activities and actions that lead to drowsiness always work. You can also give your baby a nice warm bath after which some singing or stories can signal the end of the day. These activities could be utilised as a bedtime ritual for many years, even as your child grows up.
In time, you would prefer that your baby falls asleep on their own. That would require you to complete any night-time routine you have before placing the baby inside the crib when they’re drowsy. If they do cry, it is better to move away for a few minutes and allow them to settle and fall asleep on their own. Resist the urge to cuddle them, especially if you want them to learn to fall asleep on their own. If the crying continues, you may consider holding the baby a bit longer..
Are There Any Sleep Problems At This Age?:
There are a few 4 to 6 month old baby sleep problems that need to be addressed if they are recurring, but with practice and time, your baby will start getting used to sleeping on their own. Babies can suffer from separation anxiety also, so make sure you watch out for the signs.
Baby Sleep and Development:
Having adequate sleep is necessary to prevent a baby from being cranky all the time and also keep them healthy and free from illnesses. As their bodies are still developing, getting enough sleep puts babies in a position of adequate rest, ensuring all body functions are carried out at optimum levels. Development of the immune system is an especially energy-consuming developmental milestone, alon with brain development. Both require the baby to be well-fed and well as well-rested.
Sleep Tips for 4 To 6 Months Old Baby:
Indeed sleeping is an important aspect of baby development. It is also one that is relatively easy to manage, as compared to having to deal with an illness or nutrition problems, etc.
Following are a few simple tips that can be followed to ensure your baby gets good sleep. :
If your 4 month old naps on their back, change this habit. Ensure that they nap on either side or their stomachs.
Provide them a surface that is firm and cover the mattress with a sheet that is snug.
Do not put other stuff – like pillows, soft-toys, etc. – inside the bassinet or crib. If required, place a baby monitor. It can be used as an effective sleep solutions for babies as you can try and listen for cues of your baby waking up in the middle of the night when you're not in the same room.
Avoid overheating of the room and of your baby too. Ensure the baby always feels cool (but not cold), and is sleeping in ambient environment. Try to avoid over bundling.
Try giving them a pacifier to suck on while asleep. If the baby seems unwilling to accept it however, then don’t try to force it on them.
Watch out for any hazards like cords, wires or ties that can affect the baby. Ensure that their sleeping environment is safe and sound.
What if baby wakes at night? Do not worry. This might be because they are distracted or need some pacifying before sleeping. Ensure that they are completely asleep when you place them back in the crib.
Signs of a Sleeping Baby
A few months post your baby's arrival, you will notice sleep patterns and signs emerging. A 5 month old baby sleeping a lot is a good sign as they need a lot of rest. As a parent, you just need to ensure that they are not sleeping more than the normal number of hours they do.
Often new mothers may have trouble identifying signs of sleepiness. Here are a few signs of a sleeping baby:
Their facial expressions can go from being relaxed to grimacing.
They can start looking away from you and stare into space.
They rub their eyes and ears.
Heavy yawning.
Clenching their fists
Some babies have their own idiosyncrasies when it comes to sleeping, so the faster you can identify them, the better.
Always ensure your babies get good sleep and have a peaceful early childhood. This is because the amount of nutrition and rest they get in their first few years plays a major role in their development later on.
Also Read:
7 to 9 months Old Baby Sleep
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An Insight Into the Beautiful Bond Between a Mother and Daughter
The relationship between a mother and daughter is special. A mother's love for her daughter cannot be described in words. Some things are hard to say, but it can be felt. The bond between a mother and daughter is strong, and the mother-daughter bonding can start at an early age. However, sometimes, the relation between a mother and her daughter may get a little complicated.
On some days, you might go shopping with your daughter and have fun or just sit with her at home and listen to her when she tells you about her big dreams and future plans, but there will also be days when your daughter would not listen to you or disobey you. At that time, you might feel that your relationship is falling apart, but deep down you'd know that your daughter loves you. Yes, in her teenage years she might behave a little strange, but she will come around. And it is during these years that you will have to work hard on your relationship.
Why is a Mother-Daughter Relationship Important?
The relationship that a girl shares with her mother can affect her sense of self-esteem, self-worth, sense of identity, and her ability to make friends. Children who are encouraged and praised (healthy praise, of course!) by their parents grow up to be confident individuals. If a child is not appreciated by her parents, she may seek validation from others.
When a girl is in her teenage years, she usually looks up to her mother. Her mother is her role model and she wishes to be like her. She gets her perfect image of a woman from her mother. But the relationship between a mother and daughter can go through many ups and downs. Many things can derail the harmonious relationship between a mother and her daughter. Temperaments, personality, experiences, hormones can all affect their relationship. Whatever may be the cause, it can be worked upon.
How to Build and Maintain a Strong Bond with Your Daughter
Here are some ways to help you improve your bond with your daughter:
1. When She is a Little Girl
It is important to forge a strong connection from the very start, i.e., soon after the birth of your daughter. Some things to keep in mind are as follows:
Breastfeed Your Daughter
By breastfeeding your little angel, you can develop a strong bond with her. The release of oxytocin hormone (the love hormone) during breastfeeding makes the mother fall in love with her baby even more, and this only helps in improving the bond between mother and daughter. Breastfeed your daughter in the first six months of her life. You can also enlist the help of a trained nurse to assist you with the task. Also, hold and cuddle your baby as much as possible to make her feel loved, comfortable, and safe. If you are unable to breastfeed your baby for some reason, try to maintain skin contact with her. Skin-to-skin contact between the mother and her child also strengthens the bond between the two.
Set a Routine
Spend some time with your daughter daily. Plan special weekend trips or getaways with your daughter. This will strengthen your bond. You can play dress up with your daughter, comb her hair, or brush her tooth while she is young - all these activities will bring you two closer. In case your daughter tries to imitate you, let her. Take it as an opportunity to model good behaviour. Also, encourage her to love her imperfections and try to find good in the negative things.
Express Your Affection Openly
Express your affection to her openly. If your daughter does something good, let her know that you are proud of her. This shows how much you love her. Nurture your bond with your daughter by sharing hugs, cuddles, and kisses. For example, you can incorporate extensive cuddle time during bedtime. These physical acts of love may teach your daughter to freely demonstrate and accept affection.
Share Your Experiences
The greatest gift you can give your daughter while she is young is your time. Take out time from your schedule to focus and spend some time with her to let her know that you value her as an individual. Make her feel special by sharing your joys and sorrows with her. Also, involve her in household chores from an early age to develop a sense of responsibility in her.
2. When She is a Teenager/Adult
When a girl is in her teenage years, it can be a difficult time for her. A daughter needs her mother the most in her teenage years and also when she gets married. Here is what you will need to remember when your daughter becomes a teenager:
Be There for Her
Adolescence can be a difficult phase for your girl because, at that time, she will try to find her identity and will struggle to cope up with the various physical and emotional changes she will go through. Make sure you provide her necessary guidance and support, and hear her out. Do offer her advice, but don't command her as she might become rebellious. Just listen to her concerns and try to channelise her stress or anger positively.
Respect Her Feelings
Honour your daughter’s boundaries. As much as you may prefer to be with her, if she desires some 'alone time', give that to her. On some days, you might make mistakes too. Be a bigger person and own up to your mistakes. Simply apologise and make amends. Respect her individuality and allow her to explore her inner worth and interests without inhibition.
Talk to Her Freely
Talk to your daughter about various worldly issues. You can share your pearls of wisdom while going shopping with her or while cooking meals. As a teenager, she may feel insecure about her body. Help her accept and be proud of her body. Talk to her about relationships, character traits like faith, integrity, perseverance, and courage. Let her know that these are the values she will need the most in her life. Empower and equip her with all your wisdom and life experiences.
Keep Realistic Expectations
As parents, it is normal to have certain expectations from children. But it is important to be reasonable. Remember your daughter is a separate individual who may have her dreams and aspirations. Give her space to grow and blossom by giving ample support and love.
It is a mother who educates her daughters about different things. It is a mother who teaches her daughter how to handle and carry herself in this world and how to deal with different sets of people and sail through various walks of life. A mother is the first friend of her daughter, who guides her throughout lives. If you have a daughter, make sure you be there for her always and support her in all walks of life.
Also Read:
Beautiful Mother-Daughter Relationship Quotes
How to Solve Mother-Daughter Relationship Conflict
How to Be Your Daughter's Best Friend Read more
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Natural Sunscreen for Babies - Why to Use and How to Make
Basking in the Sun can be pleasurable for you but not for your baby. In fact, it can be extremely harmful to your little one. This is why it is essential to use sunscreen to protect your baby's skin from the harmful rays of the sun. While there are many types of sunscreens available in the market, it is always best to opt for the natural ones.
Why Use Natural Sunscreens for Babies?
Parents need to be cautious while using over-the-counter sunscreens for their baby, as these products are often filled with chemicals, like such as retinyl palmitate, AKA, retinol, and oxybenzone, which are harmful to the skin. Though it is being used in products that aim to protect the skin from the sun, retinol can increase the formation of skin tumours and lesions if the skin is exposed to the sun. Oxybenzone gets soaked into the skin and can cause skin allergies and disrupt the hormones. Thus, it is always best to use natural sunscreen for babies under 6 months.
Know the SPF Content of Natural Ingredients Used in Homemade Sunscreen
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well sunscreens are able to protect the skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. The UV rays are said to be what causes sunburns, skin cancer, and skin damage.
When it comes to the natural ingredients, we can estimate the SPF content quite easily.
1. Carrot Seed Oil
Though the SPF content of 35 – 40 in carrot seed oil is a little high for babies, it makes for an amazing ingredient to add to your homemade batch.
2. Red Raspberry Seed Oil
It has an SPF content ranging between 25 and 50.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has SPF ranging from 4 to 6 but it is the most affordable SPF oil.
4. Almond Oil
Almond oil is used as an ingredient in many baby products and is the most preferred oil for massages. This oil has an SPF of about 5 and is a good option as it will let the skin absorb enough sunlight to synthesize vitamin D.
5. Shea Butter
With an SPF of 4 to 6, this provides the perfect amount to shield your precious baby from the harmful rays of the sun.
Natural Sun Lotion Recipe for Infants
After looking at the best natural SPF ingredients, let's move on to how to make a natural and homemade sunscreen.
1. Things Needed for Preparing Homemade Sunscreen
Grab yourself a glass bowl, a small saucepan and a whisk and get started. Don’t forget to keep some glass jars with lids ready to hold the prepared sunscreen lotion.
SPF Oil
One ounce of your preferred oil. The best to use is almond oil, but you can always mix almond oil and coconut oil in equal amounts for a pocket-friendly version.
Other Oil
1 ounce of sesame, sunflower, or jojoba oil. For more sensitive skin, opt for jojoba oil.
Zinc Oxide
Opt for the non-nano size zinc oxide as this is non-toxic and does not irritate the skin, while at the same time providing a broader spectrum of sun protection from the harmful rays of the sun. 5% zinc oxide gives SPF between 2 to 5.
Shea Butter
Take 8 ounces of shea butter.
Beeswax Granules
Two tablespoons of this will add some waterproof properties to the sun lotion.
2. Steps for Preparing Homemade Sunscreen
Place the SPF oil, shea butter, jojoba oil (or one of the other oils of your choice) and the beeswax in the glass bowl.
Place the glass bowl into the saucepan filled with one or two cups of boiling water.
Heat the mixture until everything melts. The beeswax will melt in the end, and when it is done, mix everything well.
Cover your face with a medical mask or anything else you may have as breathing in the zinc oxide particles can be harmful.
Mix in the required amount thoroughly.
Pour it into a darkened glass container and keep it in the fridge when you are not using it.
Tips for Using Sunscreen on Baby Skin
Here are some important tips when using homemade sunscreen on baby's skin:
Reapply the sunscreen every few hours.
If your baby sweats a lot, increase the frequency.
Storing it in the fridge increases its shelf life to six months.
Other than using this homemade sunscreen, you can also use fresh fruit peels, such as banana, to massage your baby’s skin.
Also Read: Is It Safe to Use Baby Lotions on Newborns? Read more
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The Perks of Conscious Parenting and Tips to Be a Conscious Parent
We've all been there - at a certain point in our childhood, when we've messed up, our parents have scolded us. These bitter memories may be embedded in the back of our minds, without our knowledge. And when we finally have kids, before we even realise it, we exercise the same parenting principles based on our past experiences.
Conscious parenting is a level above that - it's about stepping beyond our comfort zones, our preconceived notions, and being open to new ways of thinking and perceiving, even if those new concepts don't align with our perspectives and past experiences. We talk more about conscious parenting below and how it benefits the family, overall.
What is Conscious Parenting?
Conscious parenting is about being aware of your own emotions and responding to your child's as well. It's about being awakened enough to see your child as a human being or as he is, instead of imposing your preconditioned worldviews and belief systems on him.
A conscious parent isn't a restrictive parent or a parent who lets their child do whatever he wants with no consequences. It's about being understanding, mindful, and providing the mental and emotional space your child needs to truly grow.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Conscious Parent?
There are many benefits to being a conscious parent. Some of them are:
You become more in tune with your emotions - You stop reacting and start responding. That's a huge step.
Your child notices the change in your behaviour - When your child starts noticing that you no longer overreact and start being responsive and calm to whatever he does, he starts to get curious and listen. His respect and admiration towards you grows since you keep your calm.
You create a positive environment - When you become mindful and your child starts picking up on it, you create an environment for growth and positivity. You become more open with your kid, and he doesn't feel scared to be himself and act the way he wants. In other words, he doesn't have to put on a different mask in front of you out of fear or negative emotions.
How to Be a Conscious Parent
If you want to become a conscious parent, here's how to get started:
1. Start practising mindfulness.
Spend a few minutes a day doing absolutely nothing. Just get your quiet and alone time and learn to appreciate it. If you're not aware of your emotions and how you act, you won't be aware of your child's either.
2. Detach from previous parenting patterns.
Learn to recognise the moments when you had previously mimicked your parents' behaviours. You are you, so avoid parenting like someone else and be yourself.
3. Give yourself 3 seconds.
Whenever you find yourself in a situation when your child has done something wrong, and you're close to blowing up, calm down, breathe, and give yourself 3 seconds before responding. This should help you centre yourself and get things in perspective.
4. Actively listen.
When your child speaks, do not interrupt him no matter what. Listen to whatever he has to say and respond when he is done. 'Listen more and talk less' should be your new mantra.
5. Lower your expectations.
Remember what we said about not imposing your beliefs on your child? The same goes for your expectations. Learn to manage them and don't force your child to adhere to them. Allow your child to grow into the person he is meant to be, not what you picture in your head.
6. Encourage mistakes.
Teach your child to make more mistakes and not to be afraid of failure whenever he tackles new projects. When he feels bad, ask him to breathe and let the emotion pass, and not to judge himself or obsess over every detail that went wrong.
7. Behave the same way you want to be treated by others.
Imagine how you want to be treated by others. Now, behave the same way with your child and respond instead of reacting.
8. Make positive routines.
Positivity doesn't take over the household overnight. You have to establish routines to kick-start those changes. Kids feel more secure when they have routines and habits in place.
9. Eat well.
This may seem like an unorthodox tip, but mental clarity is also influenced by what you put on the plate. Be mindful of what you eat and eat natural foods, not processed ones. This will help you and your child stay healthy and more at peace in the long run.
10. Practice gratitude.
Be sure to thank your child and be grateful for his contribution, and praise him whenever he does a job well, even if it's something as simple as doing a piece of homework.
11. Be empathetic.
Talk to your kid and ask him how his day went. If something went wrong, ask about it and let him describe how he felt. You want to be a pillar of support, ideally.
12. Share responsibilities.
Sharing responsibilities and chores, and being a friend to your child creates a safe, loving, and positive environment. That's key to conscious parenting.
Things You Should Avoid Doing When Practising Conscious Parenting
Here's what not to do when you take steps to move forward in your journey towards conscious (or mindful) parenting.
1. Yelling and Screaming
If your child does something wrong and you yell at him for that, it makes the situation worse. Your child loses respect for you and won't listen in the process.
2. Punishing Him
Exiling him to the quiet corner of the room, slapping him, or giving out punishment of any form is wrong. It creates resentment on the inside and makes your child more likely to repeat the mistake again.
3. Imposing Your Beliefs
Your child has the right to believe in what he wants. Don't force your beliefs on him based on your past experiences. It sounds harsh, but that's the truth.
4. Being too Hasty
If you're not sure of how to respond in a particular situation, don't react suddenly. That makes the situation volatile or worse.
5. Not Giving It Enough Time
Changes don't happen overnight, and you'll have to patient. If you're trying to force things, it'll show through your emotions, and your child will detect your impatience. This could make them close up even more.
The key to conscious parenting is being a kind, gentle, and understanding human. You become more aware and learn to take things easy, thereby creating a beautiful bond between you and your child.
Also Read:
Signs of Helicopter Parents & Its Effects on Children
What is Authoritative Parenting?
Permissive Parenting: Its Characteristics and Effect On Children
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Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
7 hours ago
Q. mam i am 21 week continuing in my pregnancy but my baby not moving as much
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. pl do ultrasound. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what is muconium staining?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. due to feetal distance that will be mcconium passing in the uterine cavity itself. 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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts What should I buy for my baby however I'm just expecting in 2 month
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. you can get information regarding essentials of the new ones watch any YouTube channel. 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
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
5 hours ago
Q. I got faint line all my pregnancy test and I missed my periods for 10 days but USG and TVs test confirm there is no pregnancy is there any chance that it is very early stage that's why it is not visible???? or TVs test is the last thing that can tell that really there is no pregnancy
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. I think it would be advisable for you to get an ultrasound done with your doctor that’s going to give you a clarity because if there is a pregnancy it would be visible at least at least that sack is visible if it’s a regular pregnancy so it would be advisable to have a test with your doctor
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. mere twins baby girl and boyhai one month 8 days old kya mai ghutti de sakte hun ya gripe water de sakte hun aur kab se start kar sakte hun
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
1 hour ago
A. dear Mum, you should not give any sort of gripe water or ghutti to your baby. these are unhealthy and dangerous and can cause infection to your baby. so, these should be completely avoided.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
55 mins ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant.I recently had growth scan.mu baby is in cephalic presentation. Does this change as I approach my due date. Also my EDD is July 25 and EDC is July 2. what is my expected due date. Also what is EDC?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
43 mins ago
A. edc is expected date of delivery only.
that is 40 weeks
You will get more information for your query with your family doctor. You may meet your dr in person for proper guidance .
It is important to remain in contact with your doctor.
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