The Parenting IDEA
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The Parenting IDEA
What Parents Need to Know - from Conception to College and Beyond!
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Experts agree that breast milk and/or formula should be the primary sources of nutrition for infants 6 months and younger. While 92 percent of mothers plan on breastfeeding, more than two-thirds rely on using infant formula, according to the new “Feeding Realities” survey by Perrigo Nutrition.
(BPT) - Whether you're expecting your first child or you've been around the baby block a few times before, there are always a lot of questions when preparing for parenthood. Questions about feeding often top that list.
Experts agree that breast milk and/or formula should be the primary sources of nutrition for infants 6 months and younger. While 92 percent of mothers plan on breastfeeding, more than two-thirds rely on using infant formula, according to the new “Feeding Realities” survey by Perrigo Nutrition. Infant formula is used for a variety of reasons, including by mothers who have trouble breastfeeding, limited milk supply or opt to by personal choice. The survey of mothers of babies and toddlers uncovered common mistakes and misconceptions about formula feeding. Using more water than necessary Formula containers have specific measurements that typically call for mixing powder and water, yet 21 percent of those responding to the survey say they have used more water than required by the instructions when preparing formula. Nearly half stated their primary reason was to help save money or make formula last longer. “Many new moms have the misconception that diluting formula with water will help save money or make it easier for baby to digest,” says Dr. Jennifer Gardner, family physician and co-author of The Mommy MD Guide to Your Baby's First Year: More than 900 tips that 70 doctors who are also mothers use during their baby's first year (Mommy MD Guides). “Diluting critical nutrients in formula at a time of rapid growth can be dangerous for their baby. No cost savings is worth the risk of poor health and infant mortality. Parents should always follow preparation instructions on the product label and consult with their pediatrician to talk through infant-feeding options.” Microwave bottle preparation When warming infant formula, half of mothers said they always or sometimes use the microwave to make a bottle. The problem is microwaving formula bottles can affect ingredients and cause hot spots that might burn a baby’s mouth. What many parents don't realize is formula does not need to be warmed before it is given to baby. If your child happens to prefer a warm bottle, place it under warm running water and make sure that water isn't getting into the bottle, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Before feeding, test the temperature of the bottle by putting a few drops on the back of your hand to ensure it's not too hot. Reusing and storing formula If baby doesn't finish a bottle, it's tempting to put it in the fridge for later, but this can be a mistake. The survey found 51 percent have thrown a partially used infant formula bottle back in the fridge to use for the next feeding time. This is dangerous because bacteria can grow and the nutritional profile of the formula can diminish. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), formula not fed to baby can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours if you are making it ahead of time. However, once you feed a bottle to baby, you must discard the remaining contents after one hour from the start of that feeding. Store-brand formula confusion According to the survey, 20 percent of respondents worried about what formula to purchase in the first few months of their baby’s life. Babies can be expensive, but one way to stretch budgets without sacrificing quality is to use store-brand formulas that meet the same FDA standards as nationally advertised brands. All formula brands — including store brands — offer complete nutrition for infants. Learn more at www.storebrandformula.com. “New moms can feel confident that store-brand formula will provide complete nutrition for baby just like any brand-name formula,” says Gardner. “All infant formulas are required to meet the same FDA standards, which means store-brand formula has the same quality as other brand names but costs less. More importantly, there’s no need for parents to take unnecessary risks such as diluting formula to save money when they can trust that store-brand formula is a high-quality and affordable option.”
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 (BPT) - Headlines filled with news of opioid abuse, overdoses and reports that 90 percent of addictions start in the teen years could make any parent worry. Yet parents remain conflicted about opioids: While more than half express concern their child may be at risk for opioid addiction, nearly two-thirds believe opioids are more effective at managing their child’s pain after surgery or a broken bone than non-prescription medication or other alternatives, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “The survey results shed light on the country’s conflicted relationship with and understanding of opioids,” said ASA President Linda J. Mason, M.D., FASA. “Opioids may not always be the best option. It really depends on the type of surgery and how long they are required. It is important for parents to know that there are many alternatives available that are as — or more — safe and effective for pain management.” During Physician Anesthesiologists Week (Jan. 27 to Feb. 2), ASA wants parents to know that a physician anesthesiologist can create an individualized plan to best address patients’ pain based on the condition or type of surgery and decrease the risk of opioid misuse and addiction. Parents aren’t asking about effective alternatives While opioids can help with pain management for a few days after surgery or injury, there are effective alternatives that do not have the side effects and risks of opioids. But the survey results suggest parents often don’t ask about alternatives, or aren’t aware of the range of options. * 59 percent said they would talk to their physician about pain management options, but only 37 percent of those whose children were prescribed opioids actually did. * 88 percent recognized non-opioid, over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) and aspirin, are used to effectively help treat pain. However, few were aware the same applies to other non-opioid options, including steroids (23 percent), antidepressants (9 percent) and anti-seizure medications (7 percent). Beyond medications, a number of non-drug therapies can help with ongoing pain, including nerve blocks, physical therapy, biofeedback, meditation, virtual reality, massage and acupuncture. Parents are unaware that safe storage and proper disposal are key More than half of people who misuse prescribed opioids get them from a friend or relative. That’s why safe storage and proper disposal of the drugs are important to help curb the epidemic. * Only 50 percent said they stored or would store opioids in a safe and secure place. * 60 percent of those whose children took opioids said they needed fewer than were prescribed and had leftover medication. But only 39 percent of all parents disposed or would dispose of leftover opioids as recommended, including taking them to a local pharmacy or health clinic, flushing them down the toilet or mixing them with dirt, kitty litter or coffee grounds before throwing them away. * 61 percent correctly identified the ideal method of disposing leftover opioids, which involves taking them to a collection center at a local police station or drug disposal program at a pharmacy or health clinic. Parents understand importance of communication When a child is prescribed opioids, parents need to have an open and honest discussion about the potential side effects and risks — not only with the child taking the medication, but other family members as well. * 74 percent said they have talked to their child about the dangers of abusing prescription and over-the-counter medications and 20 percent said they intend to have the conversation. * 89 percent of those whose children have been prescribed opioids said they’ve had those discussions. * 91 percent said they are confident their children know that prescribed and over-the-counter medications can be just as dangerous as illegal drugs. Parents recognize naloxone saves lives Naloxone (Narcan) is a lifesaving medication administered via nasal spray or injection that rapidly reverses the effects of an overdose. It’s important to know about naloxone because anyone who uses opioids may be at risk for an overdose. * 71 percent agreed that having naloxone on hand is the same as having other life-saving medication available for people who suffer from conditions such as allergies, asthma or diabetes. * 80 percent said they would be more comfortable having it at home if their child or another family member was taking opioids. * 92 percent thought all first responders should carry it. The 17-question Engine Caravan Omnibus Survey was conducted online Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, 2018, among 1,007 parents of children ages 13-24, one-third of whom had been prescribed opioids. Visit ASA’s website for information about all aspects of pain management and to access an opioid overdose resuscitation card that provides guidance on symptoms of an overdose and how to help. The American Society of Anesthesiologists Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 53,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring that physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care that every patient deserves. For more information on the field of anesthesiology, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists online at asahq.org. To learn more about the role physician anesthesiologists play in ensuring patient safety, visit asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount. Like ASA on Facebook; follow ASALifeline on Twitter KEYWORDS
How to Choose the Right Preschool
Finding the right preschool or care provider for your child doesn’t have to be a daunting process. Because your child’s early years are crucial in his or her development, choosing the right child care facility is one of the most important decisions you can make to prepare him or her for both school and adult life. While most parents start the process by asking friends and family for recommendations, keep these tips in mind when searching for a child care center.How to Choose the Right preschool
Things to consider when researching child care providers (Family Features) Finding the right preschool or care provider for your child doesn’t have to be a daunting process. Because your child’s early years are crucial in his or her development, choosing the right child care facility is one of the most important decisions you can make to prepare him or her for both school and adult life. While most parents start the process by asking friends and family for recommendations, keep these tips from the child care experts at KinderCare in mind when searching for a child care center: 
Find Locations Along Your Existing Commute. The rhythm of drop-off and pick-up will soon become a reality of your days, so take into account how a new routine will impact traffic and drive times during your commute. Looking into child care facilities near your home or office, or along your route, can be a sanity saver, especially on those mornings when you’re rushing out of the house behind schedule. Do Your Research. Child care has come a long way in the past couple decades, and nationally accredited centers like KinderCare can provide everything your child needs to reach his or her potential. Awarded by an independent organization, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, accredited centers meet rigorous standards in everything from teacher qualifications to curriculum to safety. A simple search online can provide a list of accredited centers near your location of choice. Make a List of Requirements. Before you tour a facility, it can help to find your focus. Make a list about what you need from a program, what you want for your child and any concerns you may have, no matter how large or small. For example, consider potential concerns like kindergarten preparation, teachers’ management of conflict between children and more. Use your preferences to guide conversations when you’re ready to take tours. Take Tours. Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few preferred facilities or programs, schedule tours to check out the spaces, meet the directors and watch how the teachers interact with the children. Keep your requirements in mind and look for clean, safe facilities that focus on nutrition and encourage exploration and reading while building a sense of belonging. If you’re still on the fence or need more information about one or more centers, don’t be afraid to go back for a second visit and ask more questions to ensure you’re picking the right place for your family. Trust Your Instincts. After taking tours, you may have a lot of information to process. Narrowing down what’s right for your family can seem overwhelming at first, but asking yourself questions such as these can help you in the long run: Did you feel listened to, heard and understood? Was the center warm and welcoming? When in doubt, trust your gut. This is your child, after all, and you know him or her best. Find more tips and information to help pick the perfect child care center at kindercare.com. SOURCE:KinderCare KEYWORDS
New Study Suggests This Breakfast Staple Could Help Kids
Eating a nutritious breakfast helps kids start their day off right, and new research reminds us why serving real dairy milk is so important for the first meal of the day, such as this recipe for Bunny Oatmeal. New Study Suggests This Breakfast Staple Could Help Kids
(Family Features) Eating a nutritious breakfast helps kids start their day off right, and new research reminds us why serving real dairy milk is so important for the first meal of the day. As little as 7 grams of milk protein at breakfast could help set kids up with building blocks they need to grow after a good night’s sleep, according to a new study in the Journal of Nutrition. It’s no secret that kids need nutritious foods to fuel their constantly growing bodies, but there’s a period of time when they’re not getting these nutrients – during sleep. Of course kids need sleep – and plenty of it - but as they slumber, they’re using up their body’s energy stores, and if they don’t refuel in the morning it could potentially impact their ability to grow. That’s why a proper breakfast is so important, to ensure kids make up for this overnight fast. In this new study, University of Toronto researchers gave 28 boys and girls ages 7-11 a breakfast of 170 calories that included 0, 7, 14 or 21 grams of milk protein. While more protein at breakfast was more beneficial, researchers found as little as 7 grams was enough to promote positive effects over the next nine hours. Serving an 8-ounce glass of milk, which has 8 grams of high-quality protein, each day at breakfast is an easy way to get kids protein they need to support optimal growth and development. In fact, a previous study in the American Journal of Human Biology suggests regularly drinking milk during the growing years (all the way through late teens/early twenties) is associated with greater height in the teen years, while research in Osteoporosis International has linked regularly skipping milk to reduced height.¹ ² Milk is also an easy way to get kids B vitamins to convert food to energy, vitamin A to support a healthy immune system, and phosphorus, calcium and vitamin D to help build strong bones. That’s why experts recommend including milk in kids’ diets. And, with a taste they love, it’s a simple, wholesome and affordable addition to any morning meal. To kick start your child’s morning, serve a protein-packed breakfast, like this adorable bunny oatmeal, to give them nutrients they need to grow up strong. Not only will it bring a smile to your child’s face, it also gives them 18 grams of high-quality protein when served with a glass of lowfat milk. For more information and kid-friendly recipe ideas, visit milklife.com. Bunny Oatmeal(1 serving)
Nutritional information per serving: 320 calories; 2 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 10 mg cholesterol; 18 g protein; 59 g carbohydrates; 5 g fiber; 190 mg sodium; 550 mg calcium (60% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk, and include an 8-ounce glass of milk. ¹ Wiley AS. Does milk make children grow? Relationships between milk consumption and height in NHANES 1999-2002. American Journal of Human Biology. 2005;17(4):425-441. ² Rockell JEP, Williams SM, Taylor RW, Grant AM, Jones IE, Goulding A. Two-year changes in bone and body composition in young children with a history of prolonged milk avoidance. Osteoporosis International. 2005;16(9):1016-1023. MilkPEP KEYWORDS
 The benefits of child's play extend beyond exercise Researchers for years have hypothesized about the link between the reduction in free play and the rise of childhood obesity, but new research also indicates a link between children’s ability to engage in free play and their overall development.(BPT) - When you think about the most important part of a child’s school day, what comes to mind? Is it reading? Science? Math or history? What about recess? Children will likely mention recess as their favorite part of the day, and new research shows that this free time is actually a fundamental component to their future development and host to numerous educational opportunities. Yet, if there are such benefits for children in recess and unstructured play, why are school districts everywhere reducing it? More than just exercise Researchers for years have hypothesized about the link between the reduction in free play and the rise of childhood obesity, but new research also indicates a link between children’s ability to engage in free play and their overall development. A recent meta-study by the University of Minnesota’s Institute of Child Development, commissioned by Landscape Structures Inc., finds that “children’s early experiences and the settings they inhabit play a powerful role in shaping the adults they will become.” The meta-study also finds that unstructured play provides children the opportunity to practice key social, cognitive and physical skills. The research draws from a wide body of social scientific analyses, case studies and examinations of play and playground behavior. Educators, child psychologists, playground designers and the American Academy of Pediatrics all contributed to the report. The findings show that when left in unstructured play, children spend roughly 80 percent of their time on the playground engaging in important activities such as social, physical and pretend play. Any or all of these activities have been shown to further a child's future development. The manner in which playtime is spent is nearly as important as the amount of time spent. Well-designed playgrounds have proven to be a uniquely flexible play setting with equipment that supports social and imaginative play while also supporting children with diverse needs and ability levels. Toddlers, for example, appreciate the physical challenge of climbing a few stairs while older children will set their sights on the taller portions of the structure. However, at the same time that the benefits of unstructured play are being expounded, the research shows the time spent in open play is under attack. Threats to play come from myriad sources, including restrictive school and work schedules, safety concerns, organized after-school activities and the rise of passive entertainment options including television and video games. These factors combined are seen as the key reasons children’s unstructured play has dropped by 25 percent since 1981. Pushing back for play While the importance of classroom lesson plans can never be discounted in a child’s educational path, the opportunity for recess and open play should not be seen only as a break. Landscape Structures' research findings show children actively learn while in play and that the skills they learn here cater to their continual development. The educational lessons don't end when the bell rings for recess; they simply become a lot more fun. To learn more about playground solutions for your area, visit playlsi.com/. KEYWORDS Worried about the pain of childbirth? Survey says pain control options help (BPT) - Few things are more daunting for first-time moms than the prospect of childbirth. They wonder: Will my baby be OK? What will labor and delivery be like? Moms who have been there offer the low-down on labor and delivery and their message is comforting. Yes, childbirth is painful. But it’s manageable. In fact, nearly half of first-time moms (46 percent) said the pain they experienced with their first child was better than they expected, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). The survey findings suggest that being proactive in managing pain with your physician anesthesiologist is important, whether laboring moms demand an epidural right away, choose other medical pain management methods, use complementary techniques only or opt for a combination. Nine out of 10 women said pain management was effective, no matter what method they chose. But the survey also revealed that many first-time moms held some false beliefs about labor pain management before they experienced childbirth: * 74 percent thought you couldn’t have an epidural after a certain time in labor (you can have one up until the baby’s head begins emerging, known as crowning) * 44 percent feared pain at the epidural injection site would last for a prolonged time * 26 percent believed an epidural slows labor * Most concerning, 20 percent believed only one pain management option could be provided during labor and 16 percent didn’t know Expectant mothers should work with their health care providers, including their physician anesthesiologist, to discuss what pain management methods may work best for them. “First-time mothers need to know that a wide variety of options exist to manage pain, from epidural to massage, nitrous oxide to breathing techniques and that it’s acceptable to change methods or use a combination during nearly every stage of labor,” said ASA President James D. Grant, M.D., M.B.A., FASA. “But it’s also important to be flexible, since it may be necessary to change pain-management methods based on the labor process itself.” When it hurt most and what it was like While slightly more than half said having contractions was the most painful aspect of delivery, about one in five noted pushing or post-delivery was most painful. Moms 18 to 39 were more likely to say post-delivery pain was the most painful aspect than those 40 and older. The most common description of the level of pain experienced was extreme menstrual cramps (45 percent), while 16 percent said it was like bad back pain and 15 percent compared it to a broken bone. So, what pain management did they choose? While the epidural reigned supreme as the most common option, chosen by 73 percent, 40 percent of women used complementary techniques (breathing, water birth, massage, visualization or hypnosis). Additionally, pain management during labor and delivery may not be “one size fits all,” with 31 percent having used both medical (epidural, medication delivered through an IV or injection, spinal block or nitrous oxide) and complementary methods. And while nitrous oxide has received a lot of attention recently, the survey results suggest it’s rarely used. Only 2 percent of moms had nitrous oxide, and none 40 and older or who lived in the Midwest used it to manage labor pain. “This suggests that despite the buzz, nitrous oxide may not be widely available yet, or that mothers aren’t convinced it would be very helpful,” said Dr. Grant. In the future If they were to give birth again, most moms would choose the pain management method, whether medical and/or complementary, they originally chose during their first childbirth, with the majority (60 percent) opting again for an epidural to manage their pain. “Every woman’s pain during labor is different and talking with your health care provider and physician anesthesiologist can help you decide which pain management method will give you the best labor and delivery experience,” said Dr. Grant. The 10-question ORC International CARAVAN(R) Omnibus Survey was conducted online April 3-11 among 912 mothers (18 years or older) of children ages 0-8, whose first child was born either via vaginal childbirth or Cesarean section (C-section) after the onset of labor. Ultimately, 73 percent had a vaginal childbirth. For more information about pain management during labor and delivery and the importance of seeing a physician anesthesiologist, visit asahq.org/labor. The American Society of Anesthesiologists Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 52,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring that physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care that every patient deserves. For more information on the field of anesthesiology, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists online at asahq.org. To learn more about the role physician anesthesiologists play in ensuring patient safety, visit asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount. Like ASA on Facebook; follow ASALifeline on Twitter. KEYWORDS
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