Top five Best Baby Crib Mattress and Their options

We currently live during a generation where folks greatly contemplate the comfort of the mattresses they're providing for his or her babies. Lately, there are reports of SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome cases. this can be a condition when the baby suddenly dies for unexplained reasons. There are consultants that say mattresses will contribute to the present condition. this can be why folks ought to be a lot of involved regarding the mattresses they're providing for his or her babies.

The best mattresses are firmer ones. It provides higher support and luxury particularly to the lumbar region where your baby wants it most. The materials used even have to be hypoallergenic and natural to avoid inhalation of toxic chemicals. we've got chosen the subsequent 5 mattresses as our prime picks:

1. Sealy Baby Ultra Rest Mattress

This Sealy crib innerspring mattress is firm everywhere. the edges are integrated with surround borders that mimic the functions of an adult mattress. It provides higher edge support. It helps distribute baby's weight evenly through its steel vertical support bars. folks ought to contemplate this not solely as a result of its comfort however conjointly as a result of its non allergenic materials that reduces the risks for chemical inhalation and skin irritation.

2. Kolcraft Pediatric 2000 Mattress

This mattress from Kolcraft options a hundred and fifty serious gauge coils. meaning the mattress could be a heap firmer than your average coil crib mattress. it's undoubtedly a perfect selection for back support. Like Sealy, it conjointly has non allergenic layers for reduced risks of SIDS and skin irritation. additionally to that, it's Perma-Dri cowl that repels spills and diaper leaks.

3. Da Vinci MDB Twilight Crib Mattress

Customers who have purchased this mattress unanimously agree that this mattress is one in all the most effective. it's made up of polyester materials and cloth binding. it's bolstered laminated mattress covers therefore the mattress will work longer. you'll even use this for your next baby. It offers firm comfort which will facilitate enhance sleep comfort.

4. Serta Nightstar additional Firm Crib Mattress

This mattress from Serta options an honest quantity of support. Serta used layers of Polyester. they need conjointly incorporated four vents to permit air to seep within the mattress and regulate temperature. This way, your baby won't suffer from night sweats.

5. Colgate Classica I Foam Crib Mattress

For an additional firm reasonably mattress, opt for this one from Colgate. Its level of firmness has been backed by sleep and physicians. however though it's firm, it's surprisingly lightweight in weight. Like Serta, it conjointly has vents to manage mattress temperature and permit higher distribution of air.

Tips How to Clean a Baby Crib

The most vital piece of baby furniture is that the baby crib, that your baby can use from birth till around fifteen months. And as babies sleep most of the time throughout this age and, hence, use the crib most of the time, it's solely logical that it should be kept clean in the least times. After all, you would like to stay your baby as safe as attainable from grime, germs and dirt mites.

Fortunately, keeping your baby's crib clean could be a terribly straightforward task to try and do. this is often excellent news since you'll pay longer together with your baby rather than worrying a couple of tough task ahead.

Crib Beddings

Your baby can would like crib beddings like mattresses, blankets, sheets, bumper and quilts. These are necessary to stay your baby heat, offer a firm sleeping surface and simply typically build him look cute. (A word of caution: you need to make sure that unnecessary beddings are taken out of the crib when your baby is sleeping or is left alone lest SIDS becomes a daunting possibility)

To clean crib beddings, you need to follow the manufacturers' laundry directions. If the directions say hand wash them, then never place them into the washer. If it says use heat water and gentle detergent, then do so. Besides, you are doing not wish your baby's skin to be exposed to sturdy detergents, which can cause severe allergies on his sensitive skin.

It is additionally vital to separate them from different garments since you would like to avoid contamination particularly from underwear. Keep in mind that underwear bears traces of the E.coli bacteria from residual feces.

As for the mattress, continuously air them a minimum of once every week below the sun. this could kill the dirt mites that are gathering in it, with a hand vacuum sucking out the dirt.

Crib Pillows

Your baby may additionally have would like of baby pillows. If this is often the case, you need to make sure that said pillows are washed in an exceedingly gentle detergent and water answer on a monthly basis. To do so, simply fill an oversized basin with heat water and blend in an exceedingly gentle detergent answer. Soak the pillow one little section at a time and rub gently till the complete pillow becomes clean. Now, gently pat the surplus detergent and rinse a couple of times in clean water. Place below the sun to dry and switch it frequently to permit for even drying.

You may additionally use the dryer for this purpose though you'll ought to fluff the pillow additional attributable to the twists. Also, if your baby is allergic to feather pillows, a foam pillow could be a smart possibility though you need to bear in mind to not let him sleep with it since suffocation could be a risk.

Crib parts

As for the metal, plastic and wood parts of the crib itself, you need to wipe it with a clean cloth and a light disinfectant. you furthermore may got to vacuum the crib a minimum of once every week simply therefore dirt and dirt mites living within the areas between slants and railing will be removed.

Cleaning the crib is additionally a chance to see for any defect, loose half and missing parts that will create safety risks to your baby. you would like to form positive that not solely is your baby sleeping on a clean crib however he's additionally sleeping on a secure one.

Baby Crib - The importance and use of baby Crib, Baby Crib bedding and Baby Crib Mattress for your new born

Babies pay the foremost of their 1st year sleeping and this is often the rationale why oldsters pay a substantial quantity of your time making an attempt to seek out them the proper crib.

There are many issues for purchasing a crib and most couples have completely different priorities. whereas the look, color and material of the crib is also a crucial thought, the protection of the crib is even a lot of vital.

Baby Cribs

Cribs are out there in varied completely different shapes, sizes, styles and colours. Most of the cribs are designed in lightweight colours, with bright upholstery and baby crib bedding. it's been found that babies develop their cognitive skills faster when surrounded by varied shades of various colours. Therefore, most of the baby product are coloured brightly in order that except for increasing their cognitive skills, their nursery too assumes a bright and cheerful look.

A baby crib is often product of wood or metal and might be foldable too. Today, there are varied differing kinds of cribs out there within the market, right from the sleigh sort cribs to the spherical or the rocking sort cribs. However, the fabric is nearly perpetually fastidiously chosen in order that it's non toxic and doesn’t damage the kid in any means.

A baby crib typically conjointly comes fitted with a baby crib bedding that ought to be well fitting and cushty. Loose or an outsized bedding will cause the baby to urge caught in it and thus these accidents are best avoided by employing a sensible quality baby mattress which inserts well within the baby crib.

Importance of Baby Crib bedding

It is conjointly vital for the crib and also the bedding to be approved by a national or a world agency to blame for maintaining the standards for such product. each baby cribs and baby crib mattresses are out there in many various materials. Though several of the mattresses product of artificial fibers could seem terribly stunning, it's suggested that you just obtain solely those mattresses that are product of natural fibers. Natural fibers are non toxic and don't cause any rashes on the baby’s delicate skin. a similar but, can not be said for the artificial materials. The dyes and colours utilized in the mattresses and bedding ought to be non toxic. Check them well before you get them.

Round cribs are the foremost most well-liked lately. These also are counseled as a result of safety nets and crib tents are often simply put in on these cribs. These safety nets forestall the baby from falling off the crib and obtaining hurt.

New crib guidelines part of ABC's for resting babies

JOPLIN, Mo. — Making sure your baby is getting a good night’s sleep is as easy as ABC to Kathy Cowley.

“Babies should always sleep alone, on their backs, and in a crib,” said Cowley, manager of the birthing center at St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Joplin.

While A and B fall primarily to parents, a federal agency has recently taken steps to regulate C. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission last month approved new federal standards for baby cribs that will prohibit the manufacture and sale of drop-side cribs.

The standards will increase testing of cribs’ durability, mattress support strength and hardware such as slat strength. According to consumers groups, they will also improve warnings and labels on cribs to make parents aware of when a crib has been wrongly assembled and when to stop using a crib.

Citing concerns over safety, the commission has recalled more than 11 million cribs since 2007. The commission has also associated at least 32 infant suffocation and strangulation deaths since 2000 to cribs with detaching drop-side rails, with additional deaths resulting from faulty or defective hardware.

The move has been applauded by consumer and safety groups.

“The lack of durability of recently produced cribs is appalling and has put many babies at risk,” said Don Mays, senior director of product safety and technical policy for Consumers Union and its Consumer Reports publication, in a release. “These new regulations will ensure safe sleep environments by raising the bar for the safety and quality of cribs.”

Beginning in June, all cribs manufactured, sold or leased in the United States must comply with the new federal standards. Within two years, child care businesses and hotels must also be in compliance.

Individuals continuing to use old drop-side cribs privately in their homes may continue to do so, but they won’t be able to sell them under the new regulations.

As drop-side cribs fade, there are still guidelines parents should keep in mind when crib-shopping. Look for cribs with slats that are close together. If the opening between slats is wider than 2 3/8 inches, roughly the width of a soda can, then they’re too far apart, Cowley said.

She also said parents should check whether the crib’s paint is lead-based, as can sometimes be the case if it is manufactured outside the United States.

“Otherwise, I think it’s up to you what you’re looking for,” she said.

Dean Lasseter, a pediatrician with Freeman Health System, said parents should take care when choosing a crib for their child.

“Thirty deaths (associated with drop-side cribs), it’s a small number compared to the number of babies who die in car accidents, the number of babies who die from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), but it’s there, and it’s preventable,” he said. “I would select that crib really carefully and not take a chance I don’t need to.”

Once you have a crib, the only items that belong in it are a good mattress with fitted sheets, a blanket and your baby, Cowley said. To lower the baby’s risk of suffocation, avoid decorating the crib with heavy blankets, crib bumpers or pads, pillows and stuffed animals, she said.

“They’re very cute, they’re very nice, but they’re not safe,” she said.

Lasseter said parents shouldn’t be tempted by sleeping with their child, who belongs in a crib or a bassinet. Babies otherwise risk falling off the bed, getting stuck between the mattress and the wall, breathing in the same pocket of air, or being crushed by their parents, he said.

“Never put the baby in bed with the parents,” he said. “The risk for SIDS skyrockets. It’s the most dangerous thing parents can do to their baby.”

Other tips for parents to help their newborn sleep, and possibly reduce the risk of SIDS, include:

~ Place the baby on his or her back, Cowley said. Parents who worry about the child choking should have little cause for concern because babies will instinctively turn their face to the side if they spit up, she said.

~ Develop a bedtime schedule, if possible. “If the parents have a routine, and they can get the baby into the routine, that’s going to help enormously,” Lasseter said.

~ Keep a fan in the room. Circulating the air could help reduce the risk of SIDS and can provide “white noise” to help your baby sleep, Lasseter said.

~ Swaddle the baby, which gives him or her a sense of comfort and closeness, he said.

~ Keep the room temperature at a comfortable level and don’t overdress the baby at nighttime.

Source : http://www.joplinglobe.com/healthandfamily/x1961026537/New-crib-guidelines-part-of-ABC-s-for-resting-babies

Baby Crib Safety

New Baby Crib Safety Standard Slated to Take Effect in June 2011

Since 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled more than 11 million dangerous infant and toddler cribs. In an effort to ensure a safe sleeping enviroment for small children, on December 17, 2010, CPSC voted unanimously to approve new mandatory standards for baby cribs. The new standard will effect both full-size and non-full-size cribs.

The new federal standard will take effect in June 2011, requiring cribs being manufactured, sold, or leased in the United States to comply with the new safety standards. CPSC said the mandatory crib standards will stop the manufacture and sale of traditional drop-side cribs, will require mattress supports be made stronger, crib hardware must be made more durable, and safety testing will be made more exacting.

Child care facilities, such as day cares and home infant care facilities, and places of public accommodation, including hotels and motels, will be required to have cribs that meet the new standards in their places of business within 24 months after the new ruling takes effect.

CPSC has received reports of 32 crib related deaths due to infant suffocation and strangulation involving drop-side cribs since 2000. Faulty and/or defective hardware is also to blame for the deaths of more children.

Source : http://newsfuzion.com/2010/12/27/new-baby-crib-safety-standard-slated-to-take-effect-in-june-2011/

The Various Baby Crib Bedding Sets Available

If you are looking for baby crib bedding sets, you aren't going to have a shortage of options. Because there are so many wonderful bedding sets available, the choice can become more complicated. The following will cover factors relating to modern baby bedding, including the most popular materials and designs used for both boys and girls.

A typical baby crib bedding set consists of a crib skirt, quilt, fitted sheet, and bumper. Modern bedding designed for kids is made of the best materials, is comfortable, and attractive. Of course, the color of the baby items for boys are different than the ones for girls. Most people tend to go by the book with colors, buying a blue set for boys and a pink set for girls. You can also decide to get bedding collections that have a neutral color, since they are acceptable for both boys and girls. Next, we will discuss bedding for boys, girls, and the neutral collections.

Bedding collections are available in just about every shade of pink when shopping for girls. The bedding set may include not only variations of pink, but also chocolate and cream. The "princess' themed set is very popular choice for girls, which consists of numerous delicate fabrics. Flower garlands, embroidered bouquets, and pink polka dots could be featured in such a collection. Healthy cotton, soft velvet, and shiny silk may also be used in a given bedding set for girls. The skirts often times have ruffles, and the trimming on the bumper consist of beautiful, textured stripes.

Blue is the most common color selected for boys. There are several options here as well, including themes such as "forest" or "jungle" sets. Collections like these might have leopard or cheetah prints with a mix of green, earth, and honey. Healthy cotton and soft velvet could be the fabrics used. Other themes you might find for baby boys are sky and sea ones.

Baby crib bedding sets that come in neutral colors might be the most popular choices. These sets don't come in more distinct colors such as blue or pink, but ones that are more unique. Some colors included could be a shade of brown or blue lagoon. A mix of chocolate and cream also make up a theme that would be considered neutral.

Modern baby crib bedding sets provide the ability to put together the ideal place for your child. He or she will be soothed, comforted, and be able to capture their imagination with their new atmosphere.

by: Danielle Navarro

Breast Intentions

The strength and ubiquity of the 'breast is best' message in New Zealand means there is greater awareness than ever of the benefits of breastfeeding, increasingly advocated as the risks of formula feeding.

However, women remain unsupported in their choice to breastfeed, from work policies and a lack of timely information and support, to family attitudes and perceptions of a "good baby" as one which sleeps through the night and therefore requires slowly digested formula to do so.

The conflict between the lactating and revered sexual breast in Western society means that while the media is awash with images of 'boobs', public breastfeeding is taboo. A 2009 study found that 36 per cent of Australians said breastfeeding was unacceptable in a cafe or at work. Jennifer James of RMIT University, which conducted the study, said "Part of the issue why young mothers wean their babies too early is societal pressure and isolation from other mothers experiencing the same difficulties."

The result is that many women do not establish breastfeeding, the trauma of which is then compounded by the censure faced when bottle feeding.

In recognition of the experiences of these mothers, Christchurch based counsellor Karen Holmes, is launching a counselling service specifically for "unvalidated grief" around women's breastfeeding experiences.

Holmes explains: "This is something which is just never talked about, but for many women giving up breastfeeding is a very real loss which impacts their lives. It may never be acknowledged as grief - not by others and not even by themselves." This grief therefore expresses itself in other ways, for example through anger at breastfeeding mothers or feelings of resentment at being let down by the health system.

Holmes offers counselling to those impacted by infant feeding grief, trauma or related concerns, including mothers and those who find themselves with issues in their work with mothers. Counselling could be historical, for example with grandmothers, as well as for contemporary issues. In addition to grief from not establishing breastfeeding, it can also arise when a child weans unexpectedly.

Mother of three, Charlotte, comments: "I breastfed my eldest for 23 months. I couldn't breastfeed my middle son and I had to bottle feed, it caused me a lot of negative psychological stress for a while, and I got it into my head that he didn't love me. My third son I breastfed for just over 6 months, then he decided he wasn't interested anymore and preferred food and a bottle. This was a bit of a shock at first."

Infant feeding issues may also arise in pregnancy. For example, one mother who had an eating disorder when younger, had recurring nightmares throughout her pregnancy that she would be unable to feed her baby.

University of Albany evolutionary psychologist Gordon Gallup believes the grief a mother may experience also operates at the level of biology, commenting: "For most of human evolution the absence or early cessation of breastfeeding would have been occasioned by miscarriage, loss, or death of a child. We contend, therefore, that at the level of her basic biology a mother's decision to bottle feed unknowingly simulates child loss."

A study of 50 mothers conducted by Gallop showed that those who bottle fed scored significantly higher for postnatal depression than breastfeeders.

Feelings of loss at not breastfeeding may be compounded by guilt, and also rejection by having felt undermined by questions when attempts at breastfeeding were underway.

Holmes spent ten years as a La Leche League (LLL) leader and observed that much of the meetings were devoted to discussions about addressing challenges from others toward breastfeeding women. For example "are you sure you've got enough milk", "that baby's got you wrapped around it's little finger", and assumptions about the duration of breastfeeding and the need for supplementation from formula.

Anthropologist Sheila Kitzinger in Ourselves as Mothers (1992) stresses the importance of self-belief when she writes: "The firm expectation that (women from traditional cultures) will breastfeed successfully is much more important for a mother than any specific breastfeeding practices... women can breastfeed under apparently impossible conditions if they are convinced that they will be able to do so."

Breast vs Bottle Polarisation

The polarisation of breast versus bottle hurts mothers and the women at the frontline of breastfeeding promotion. Holmes comments: "There appears to be this big division between breast and bottle feeding, but there are multi-causal factors with infant feeding in Western culture today including historical, cultural, familial and political. In a culture that often wants to point the finger in one direction, in reality it serves no one to do this. I believe we need an honest look at where we are to acknowledge that the two camps have much in common."

Holmes continues: "I think we need to appreciate that all women go through the same ringer when making decisions about feeding their babies - a successfully breastfeeding mother could have had endless struggle, undermining and interference to get to that point, just like a formula feeding mother. But yes, the breastfeeding mother's trauma may be alleviated by her eventual success."

Holmes herself experienced problems breastfeeding so knows first hand what women may go through. Holmes said she wanted to breastfeed her now grown-up daughter for economic reasons and because "it gave me an excuse to be close to my baby", a poignant testament to the independence expected between mothers and infants in Western society.

During the first few days of her daughter's life, and having difficulty feeding, Holmes was "constantly questioned" as to whether her baby was getting enough breastmilk and was "eventually worn down", and gave her baby formula. She then overheard someone saying of her "they just don't try very hard these days do they". However Holmes persevered, and with help from an LLL breastfeeding counsellor regarding positioning of the baby, she went on to breastfeed until her daughter was three years old.

The breast versus bottle debate has lead to an emphasis on breast pumps, by viewing breastfeeding through a bottle feeding lens and equating breastfeeding with breastmilk. However the use of breast pumps are linked to a decrease in milk supply and therefore negatively affect breastfeeding outcomes.

Carol Bartle, coordinator of the Canterbury Breastfeeding Advocacy Service, comments "Breast pump marketing implies that all women need a breast pump to breastfeed, and the only pressing issue is finding out "which pump is right for you". However seductive the pump marketing messages are, with their impressions of the modern mother's need to get away from her baby, fathers' need to give bottles, and images of attractive women with their backpack and pump, the reality of pumping is that of a complex and time consuming practice that is hard to maintain. I have yet to meet a woman who enjoys pumping but have known hundreds who love to breastfeed once they have established breastfeeding".

Bartle, who has 30 years' experience working in neonatal intensive care, where women try and establish their milk supplies using breast pumps, continues: "Many pumps are inefficient and do not remove milk effectively enough to maintain milk supply. Women who give breastmilk to their babies in bottles, and do not put their baby to the breast at all, are at the highest risk of serious milk supply problems."

This observation is confirmed by a 2009 study from Stanford University School of Medicine, California, which found that "pump suction alone often fails to remove a significant fraction of milk as more can be expressed using manual techniques". So to ensure pumping is done effectively, and the milk supply is maintained, pumping needs to be done in combination with hand massage techniques. Something few women are aware of.

Barriers to breastfeeding

It is very clear that women should not take sole responsibility for their breastfeeding experiences. Holmes identifies that grief issues "depend on self-image and expectations", so that when women are given unrealistic ideas of breastfeeding and at the same time undermined on the way to achieving breastfeeding, the grief and sense of failure can be significant.

New Zealand's National Breastfeeding Advisory Committee (NBAC) in its 2008-2012 national plan for breastfeeding detailed a list of 13 Social and environmental barriers to breastfeeding. These included the perception that artificial feeding enhances the father's opportunities to bond with the infant, attitudes that make breastfeeding embarrassing or uncomfortable for the woman, societal expectations about the acceptable duration of breastfeeding, a culture that portrays bottle-feeding as normal, and returning to work, by choice or through financial necessity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that "virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large".

These sentiments are reinforced by the pro-formula backlash, for example the book Bottle Babies by Adelia Ferguson (1998), which catalogues letters from bottle feeding mums - many of which are a testament to a fundamental lack of support around their breastfeeding experiences.

Holmes comments: "Many bottle feeding mums feel extremely traumatised by their persistent efforts to breastfeed to the point where they will not ever try again with subsequent babies. Sadly much of this experience is due to inaccurate breastfeeding information. However, there are successful breastfeeding experiences after some extreme circumstances. This is done knowing how breastfeeding works and that others have done it successfully."

In 2008, the UK's Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition said of the latest Infant Feeding Survey in 2005 that "The reasons mothers gave for abandoning breastfeeding suggest that relatively few mothers truly chose not to breastfeed. Three-quarters of breastfeeding mothers... said they would have preferred to breastfeed for longer had they been able. These findings suggest that most women who start to breastfeed are committed to it but stop because they encounter problems and find that skilled support is not readily available."

In recognition of this, the Canterbury Breastfeeding Advocacy Service provides not just information about breastfeeding but practical support in the form of networks between health care professionals, local groups and mothers. Bartle comments "We are trying to shift the culture to one that supports and protects breastfeeding women, rather than just promoting breastfeeding without support structures in place to really make a difference. For example, I have just been working with a mother who said that the most useful assistance she could have received while trying to establish her preterm baby on the breast after going home from the hospital, was home help."

Meanwhile, commenting on the national situation in New Zealand, outgoing LLLNZ Director Barbara Sturmfels, says: "Legislative changes to improve conditions for breastfeeding mothers in the paid workforce, a public advertising campaign to promote breastfeeding in public, and support for the implementation of UNICEF's Baby Friendly Initiative in New Zealand are some of the ways that the government is seeking improvements in breastfeeding rates through institutional and societal change."

Many problems need not prohibit breastfeeding were they seen as part of the breastfeeding journey and if consistent support and information were on hand in the crucial first days and weeks. Denise Digman in Breastfeeding in New Zealand: Practice, Problems and Policy (1998), says the medicalisation of breastfeeding has detracted from "perceiving the range of physical sensations and difficulties experienced while breastfeeding as part of the normal spectrum of events". This is echoed by NBAC which talks of "insufficient knowledge about the normal course of breastfeeding, including common problems and the solutions".

Holmes gives an example from her own life to illustrate this point: "In her first weeks, my youngest daughter was putting on very little weight and this was of concern to the Plunket nurse. I explored what factor might be creating the problem and discovered a cowsmilk intolerance. As soon as this was eliminated from my diet her weight gain improved. Without this knowledge, this could have turned into a safety issue."

New Zealand's breastfeeding rates compare favorably with those of other developed nations. Different countries measure the rates in different ways and for different years, but for a broad comparison, rates for exclusive breastfeeding are: New Zealand 2008 16% at 8 months; Canada 2008 14.4% at 6 months, Australia 2007 14% at 6 months, USA 2006 13.6% at 6 months, UK 2005 less than 1% at 6 months.

However seen globally, it is clear the impact Western values may have on breastfeeding. WHO recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months and for breastfeeding to continue "up to two years of age or beyond".

The top 5 countries for exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months (Unicef 2008) are Rwanda 88%, Kiribati 80%, Sri Lanka 76%, Solomon Islands 74%, and Peru 69%. At aged 20-23 months, Sri Lanka, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Bangladesh and Nepal all had breastfeeding rates of over 80%, with Nepal at 95%.

In New Zealand, rates for Maori and young mothers are much lower than average, and Maori currently have the lowest exclusive breastfeeding rates in the country. This is also a hallmark of Western society: As Glover et al explain in Maori Women and Breasfeeding (2008) "Beliefs and practices introduced to Maori by European immigrants to New Zealand have supplanted Maori infant feeding practices". The report therefore recommends that "promotion of breastfeeding to Maori should focus on re-establishing breastfeeding as a tikanga (right cultural practice)".

As well as Karen Holmes new counselling service, Christchurch is fortunate in having the Young Parents' Breastfeeding Group Whangai U "Matua Puhou". Headed by public health advocate and breastfeeding peer counselling administrator Susan Procter, the group has over 20 regular members and meets regularly to support breastfeeding families where the mother is aged under 25.

Procter comments: "The impact the group has had is enormous, both in terms of breastfeeding success and also in giving several of the mums a passion and motivation to apply to enter the health care professions to advocate for breastfeeding and to support other young mothers."

Breastfeeding as Patriarchy

A further irony of the breastfeeding debate is that when a mother does successfully breastfeed, she is likely to be censured if she continues past an arbitrary cut off point of a few weeks or months.

Part of the problem is that motherhood, the archetypal female domain, is accused of becoming a patriarchy with male values overlaid upon it. For example the reverence of science over instinct, of experts over the mother's voice, and of consumer products over the mother's body. This is particularly relevant with the medicalisation of birth, with the rising number of cesarean sections impacting negatively on the establishment of breastfeeding.

Dr Truby King is a controversial example of the mothers' expert, having founded New Zealand's Plunket Society in 1907 "to help the mothers and save the babies" and the Karitane Product Society (KPS) in 1927, which consolidated King's production of infant formula.

Linda Bryder says of King in A Voice for Mothers (2003) "The diagnosis of the problem and the solutions put forward were the same everywhere: mothers were ignorant of the correct methods of child-rearing and needed to be educated". Meanwhile Sheila Kitzinger claims that King "Destroyed women's confidence in breastfeeding and made loving mothers feel inadequate and guilty."

One hundred years later, that charge was still being leveled at Plunket for the promotion of scheduled feeding, based on the digestion time required for formula, rather than for quickly digested breastmilk. The emphasis has shifted recently with Plunket advising that "your baby may wake wanting frequent feeds. For breastfed babies these feeds are important to help establish and maintain breastfeeding". However the organisation remains out of step with international WHO guidelines by recommending breastfeeding only "until they are at least 1 year or older".

Plunket's controversial partnering of breastfeeding promotion with corporate interest through King's formula production, continues today with Wattie's sponsorship of Plunket. Wattie's promotes Nurturebaby formula and markets "Stage 1" baby foods for "4-6 months onwards", in conflict with WHO's recommendation of "exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months" and Plunket's recommendation of "breastfeeding exclusively until around 6 months". The Plunket logo appears on the packaging of Wattie's Stage 1 foods, giving the perception that Plunket endorses feeding solids at 4 months, despite the clear conflict with Plunket's own policy. The presence of the Plunket logo also gives the impression that Plunket is endorsing that particular brand of baby foods above both competitive brands and baby food prepared at home.

The patriarchal legacy remains a tangible presence for women, their partners and families today. Holmes comments: "Progressively, women were told that their instincts, their feelings and everything else they may have previously believed were wrong and they needed to listen only to the experts if they wanted their babies to live. This creates internal conflicts which may become problematic, especially the thought that something must be wrong with a woman as mother."

Holmes continues "It is with this that I want to work, for example validating grief, feelings, impacts. Helping women to understand what creates these conflicts and giving them permission to feel what they feel. I would hope also that in doing this women may regain a sense of their own wisdom and feel empowered to make informed choices."

Holmes stresses that the understanding and support of fathers is a crucial part of this process. Holmes comments: "Breastfeeding is a human issue, not a women's issue. Men have a valuable and active role in supporting women to breastfeed and in protecting it." This is reinforced by Sturmfels who says "Informed and skilful mother-to-mother support can really make a difference. A new mum needs the love and support of her partner and family."

Holmes concludes: "What is most important is that all mothers are honored in their experiences around infant feeding. That mothers feel supported, valued and confident in their own ability as a mother."

by : Elizabeth Willmott Harrop

Good Benefits of Latex Baby Mattresses

Your baby needs a lot of things in order to feel comfortable and satisfied. You have to remember that they totally depend on you for almost all of the things that they need like food, water, warmth and comfort. You have to be sensitive to the signals that they make for you to know what you need to do for them.

Babies need comfort for them to rest well. They will need pillows, bed covers and crib to rest. One of the most important things that you must provide for your baby is baby mattress. You have to realize that mattresses are used by your babies to sleep and rest well. There are some benefits that your baby and you can get latex mattress.

GOOD SUPPORT FOR YOUR BONES

This kind of mattress is good for the skeletal system of your baby. It can help him support his bones well. Latex mattress is known to be dense and can easily adjust to his body contour. You can use this to support your baby's spinal area to keep it aligned and in good shape. One good advantage of this mattress is that it remains to be comfortable despite the fact that it is firm and dense.

DOES NOT CAUSE ALLERGIES

You must know that this mattress will not cause allergies for your baby. It can prevent the occurrence of local irritations in your baby's skin. This mattress is known to be good in preventing mites, bacteria and other microorganisms from harboring in the area.

This mattress is known to be hypoallergenic and is good for the skin of your baby. It can prevent mites to stay and thus will keep your baby from infestations that he can probably get from the traditional mattresses. It can also prevent the growth of the molds due to the fact that this mattress can dry up easily.

IT IS SAFE TO USE

Latex materials are known to be dense and firm. Thus, it will be very effective in preventing the occurrence of infant or baby suffocation that commonly occurs among those who use soft mattresses during rest. You have to know that the materials used in making latex mattresses are not harmful. Manufacturers do not put harmful chemicals to the material to keep it safe for everybody.

IT CAN LAST FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME

You have to know that this mattress can last for a long period of time. It is tough enough to withstand tearing and other damages that may occur commonly in ordinary mattresses. This mattress can last for a decade or more for as long as you take good care of it.

In choosing the best mattress for your baby, you have to choose the best one within the price range that you have set. You must remember that your baby is delicate and sensitive to a lot of things. You have to be careful in choosing the things that you want him to use.

by : Anna Holmes

Convertible Baby Cribs: Why Should You Buy One?

Your new baby is definitely going to need a new crib, right? If you have already started to purchasing one, you must be thinking of buying the best for your child simply because you are a loving parent. The crib is going to be the baby’s furniture for a little while, now that he or she is on the way, or already born, and you cannot make a wrong choice.

The convertible baby crib is the right choice for you. It might be a revelation to any new parent when he or she is trying to settle in for a crib. Convertible cribs are ideal for the fast growing baby. These cribs come at a higher price than ordinary ones because of a few specialties that they possess. Read on to know what are the reasons:

1. Convertible baby cribs last longer than any ordinary crib. They can also be put up as bed for toddlers. So the cribs will have a utility even when the baby is within four years of age. That comes to four years of long-term service to you at minimum. Further, some cribs can be transformed into full size beds for grown-ups. So when your baby is on the threshhold of teens he still can make use of the convertible crib. It can be handy to use for yourself also.

2. It can be used with convenience. The majority of convertible baby cribs possesses a one hand drop and lift side system that facilitates you to keep the baby down without any effort. As per he requirements of the baby, its mattresses can also be kept up or placed down.

3. Convertible baby cribs can perform a number of functions. Many of them have attached with them a drawer below it to keep a small store of baby products. Hence, it enables you to spend not any more on other furniture that you may have needed for your cute little baby.

4. They are also economical. Even for the toddler’s bed or as a bed for an adult, the crib makes use of the same mattress. So it saves your money because you will not need to buy a bed in the coming days with the growth of the baby. Or may be never.

5. The convertible baby cribs are safe. They follow the safety guidelines laid down by the law. It is important to meet the regulations. What is more, some convertible cribs go even beyond the set standards and takes more care to be baby-friendly. And taking care of the baby is the primary factor.

It is important for the baby to get good sleep for its growth. During the day also the infant goes to sleep. Needless to say a safe, economical and comfortable crib would answer the call. A convertible crib is the thing you need for ensuring a happy sleep for your baby.

There is no denying the fact that you will find cheaper and as simple to use baby cribs if you look in the market, but a convertible crib of course has its own advantages that cannot be overlooked. They have a lengthy life span and would be with you for a long time to come.

by: Christine DuPont
please visit http://www.materialbaby.info

Baby Crib Furniture for Every Child

Jenny Lind crib comforts are still very much in demand, even though it is more than 150 years since the famous singer, Jenny Lind, gave birth to the legend by sleeping in a bed with turned posts. Crafted by well-known manufacturers, the classic Jenny Lind cribs still feature the same elegant, yester-year posts and legs.

The single drop-side Da Vinci Jenny Lind baby crib is beautifully finished with turned spindles and posts. The company complies with rigid industry safety guidelines. The Jenny Lind crib features robust metal mattress crib springs. Your darling cherub can chew and chomp with gusto on the teething rails.

The Jenny Lind Cradle is of a solid hardwood construction, also featuring the trademark turned posts and spindles. This piece of baby furniture comes with a 1" mattress pad. The locking pin is one of the safety features of the cradle.

Angel Line also features a Jenny Lind Crib in a choice of 6 non-toxic finishes. This graceful crib caters for your growing infant with mattress brackets in four positions.

The Jenny Lind name also lives on in the Million Dollar Baby version of the Jenny Lind Crib. As in all their superbly crafted cribs, the Safety-Glide system is in place for peace of mind. The mattress has four positions, for easy adjustment according to your baby's growth. An optional conversion kit extends the life of the Jenny Lind crib into the toddler years. This baby crib will blend into any nursery, with its choice of 8 finishes, from baby blue or pink, to maple and ebony.

Million Dollar Baby adds to its Jenny Lind Cribs with a delightful Jenny Lind changing table. A safety belt has been added as a precaution. A 1" comfort pad completes the changing table.

Also blending in with your Jenny Lind Crib, is the Jenny Lind cradle in the same 8 finishes. The range can be further extended by adding the Jenny Lind High Chair, with the customary turned spindles. This classic design features a slide-in wooden tray. The 3 point safety belt ensures secure comfort during mealtimes.

Once you have a Jenny Lind crib in place, you can add accessories such as a wedge for better management of infant acid reflux, or baby bedding sets such as the Brandee Danielle Baby Bedding range, a Jenny Lind dresser, and all the other paraphernalia that belongs in the nursery to make your life easier. Pottery Barn Kids offer a wide selection of additional baby furniture items, baby bedding sets, and storage solutions.

Before being tucked in for a cozy nap in the Jenny Lind Crib, your baby can spend some quiet bonding time with you in a stylish Jenny Lind rocker. This is the time for story reading, and dreaming dreams...

Who knows, perhaps your little nightingale will absorb some of Jenny Lind's legendary talent, while spending so many hours nestled under Brandee Danielle baby bedding, in a Jenny Lind crib.

by: Anita Eracybab

Best Advice About Portable Baby Crib Bedding Sets

The Facts about Portable & Mini Crib Bedding

Are you perplexed about the differences between a mini and portable crib? Portable Cribs are lightweight cribs that can be folded and stored easily. They are ordinarily made with fabric and steel with carrying bags and some even have diaper changer attachments. They are ideal for travel to grandma's house, using as a play area or as an alternate bed in your room before transferring your baby to the nursery full time.

A mini crib is simply a smaller sized version of a regular crib that takes up less floor space in a baby's room. Many mini cribs are portable to move to dissimilar rooms and can be folded for easy storage.

How can I find portable or mini crib bedding that fits?

Baby crib bedding comes in all sizes and patterns. When searching for mini or portable crib bedding be sure what you choose bedding that fits snugly onto the mattress. Bedding that is loose fitting can cause a safety and security hazard and should NEVER be used. It is very important that you don't use standard crib sheets in a mini or portable crib because they do not fit properly and can bunch up around your sleeping baby. To ensure you find the best bedding for your crib go to online stores that give you bedding recommendations for your precise portable or mini crib. If there isn't a recommendation then be sure to measure the mattress thoroughly and find the sheet dimensions before buying.

What comes in a portable or mini baby crib bedding set?

A baby crib bedding set comes with items such as comforter, bumper, fitted sheet and sometimes with other accessories as well. (Some associations recommend parents not use the bumper pad in the crib and it's suggested to sustain from using a heavy comforter until the baby is older.) You can always buy the set and then get excess sheets for back up spills or messes or just buy everything separate and get only the things you believe you will need.

What is the best crib sheet fabric?

If you want a natural and breathable sleep surface for your baby then you'll want to consider getting bedding that's made of 100% cotton. Cotton fabric is also easy to clean and comfortable for your baby as well. The natural cotton sheets keep moisture like sweat or temperature changes in the room from building up around your baby's skin.

What is the price range for mini or portable baby crib bedding sets?

If you go down the separates route you can get sheets and other items for around $10 - $40. For the entire baby crib bedding set you can expect to pay from $45 - $130. As with any product, there are many brands at several different prices ranges to ensure you get what you need on your budget.

Portable and Mini Crib Safety Tips

*Plan a monthly inspection on your crib to check out the mesh fabric for holes and also check for any loose hardware.

*Use the crib mattress that comes with your item or only get one that is specifically made for that crib style. Never buy one thicker than the one it comes with.

*To make your baby's bed totally baby proofed, never use extra cushioning on top of the mattress.

*If you have a portable or mini crib that folds down, always double check that every latch and joint is set up and stable before putting your baby in it.

*Be sure your crib bedding fits snugly and firmly, so that it doesn't pull up onto the mattress when in use.

*Never leave heavy crib bedding, pillows and stuffed animals with your baby in the crib.

by : Kim M. Proulx

Baby Crib Sets

Baby crib sets can be purchased from several manufacturers who hire dozens of designers to make the styles unique and pricey. There are several brands on the market, but before purchasing one you need to know what fabric is used and whether or not it meets the US Safety Commission's Standards for safety.

Most sets come with a set of sheets - fitted and flat, a comforter, pillow, sham and crib bumpers. For safety reasons, it is recommended that a baby sleep in a crib that has a fitted sheet and that's about it. Rather than put a blanket over a newborn, it is often suggested that they sleep in a zipped pajama bag.

However, a crib can be dressed up when the baby is not in it and there are four top brands that parents seem to find the most suitable and cost effective. Brandee Danielle, Glenna Jean, Kidsline and Lambs & Ivy all have a unique style and are made of quality materials offered at reasonable prices. Brandee Danielle creates classic and durable baby crib sets that will last from one generation to the next. Glenna Jean uses premium fabrics to create beautiful hand-patched baby crib sets, and you can purchase the fabric separately to make your own baby curtains and other accessories. Kidsline is extremely popular and is found in most national chain stores and many list it on baby shower registries. Kidsline not only makes baby crib sets, but they also offer accessories like mobiles, blankets, wall borders, drapes, wall art, lamps and shades, and more. Lambs & Ivy is also a popular brand that is sold nationwide. The baby crib sets they manufacturer are made from 100% cotton or cotton/polyester bland fabrics, are machine washable and come in very bright, cherry colors.

by : Alison Cole

Designer Crib Bedding For Your Baby

Having a baby is one of the most natural and exciting things to happen to a family. Many people feel that their family is not complete without children of their own and the nine months from conception to birth is filled with enthusiasm and preparation.

One of the most exciting parts of the process for parents-to-be is the creation of a nursery for the newcomer. Babies obviously require a large amount of specific equipment, such as changing mats, clothes, toys and a crib. Preparing the nursery so that everything they need is available when they come home makes the impending arrival more real for the household. Choosing the color, style and overall look of the room depends largely on the personalities of the parents but many opt for designer items to ensure that they are of high standards and do the job they were made to do well, whilst looking aesthetically pleasing.

One area which can really alter the overall look of the room is the crib itself and the bedding within. For the first few years, the crib will be the dominating piece of furniture in the room and every visitor to the home will at some point peer in at the newborn as they sleep in their crib. The baby will spend a large proportion of its time sleeping for the first weeks and months so it makes sense to ensure that this is one area which the parents are particularly happy with.

Celebrities are renowned for using the best products and manufacturers for their babies. This endorsement, whether paid or not, brings certain products to the forefront of the public’s mind and many parents feel that if it is good enough for a film star, it is good enough for them and their baby. Finding the products to buy can be a different matter though, particularly if you do not live in or near to a large city. However, the Internet has made it much easier to find whatever product you are looking for and to have it shipped directly to your home.

One website I have found which specialises in designer baby-wear, furniture and bedding is found at www.babyscribsupply.com This site allows you to shop by designer if you wish so that you can easily locate a specific product if you know who made it. Alternatively, you can browse the site by product. Everything you will need for your baby and nursery is available to buy in one place and every product has a photograph to allow you to see it before you buy it.

The crib bedding section has every color and pattern imaginable for your baby. You can view the products by gender of the baby or you all at a time. As I mentioned earlier, this is possibly one of the most important purchases you will make for your child’s nursery as it will be seen and used with such regularity. Once you have selected the bedding you require you can then shop by the designer if you wish to decorate the whole room with the same label, or you can choose additional products which will complement the look you have chosen.

by: Susan Green

Helpful Reminders When Buying a Baby Crib Bedding Set

New parents are often lack of knowledge and experience especially when buying a baby crib bedding set that is right for their infant. It’s not easy to decide whether the crib bedding set would be perfect for the infant’s needs or not as there are wide options to choose from. Always consider the most important thing when buying, it’s the fact that not only the looks count but it should be worth your hard-earned money at least. Aside from it’s appearance, make sure that the baby crib bedding set that you will buy will offer more advantages to your baby because he or she will be using it for the first few years of his or her life.

You will find baby crib bedding sets, that often comes with baby items and necessities, available in most retails stores in your place. You can also find affordable yet high quality items in retail places such as Walmart or Sears near you. There you can decide which items are important and worth to buy that will fit your budget. Mostly, you can find the best offer that you will need for your baby in such places, at affordable prices. You can also compare items before buying and decide which of these items offer its best purpose. If you find that none of these items meet your needs and liking, you can also try checking other department stores near you. Although you may find that they offer items with prices a little bit higher than those retail places, it’s more possible for you to find items that you will prefer the most from these stores.

It is not necessary to buy expensive baby items in order to meet your baby’s needs, as long as it depends on your own preferences and reasonable to buy. Branded items are known to be more expensive than others, might as well, the most important is the quality of the items that you will get for your baby. Of course, aesthetic value will be great but not as always if it will compromise quality or even the safety of your child. Baby items that are more functional should be given more preference than those items that only gives additional decoration. Baby items such as baby crib bedding sets, cribs, mattresses come with their own importance of giving your little one’s a care so it’s best for you to consider the necessary things before buying because we all don’t want to compromise our child’s safety.

By: Haden Kaliso

Baby Cribs - Safety Is Key

You have just learned that you are expecting a baby. Even if you have other children, you must take a look at cribs. Is the crib you already have an antique? You should look carefully at your second hand crib whether it is an antique or not.

The safety of your new baby makes this necessary. The screws and/or other fasteners such as bolts must be in place and not loose. It is of the utmost importance that this is tested before you place your baby in the crib.

Take something that is almost equal to your 4-month-old baby's weight. In order to be certain that it will hold its position bounce it off the mattress. If it doesn't your baby could be hurt seriously or worse. When you set up your nursery, if it isn't set-up already, seriously consider where you will place your crib.

If you have to place the crib near a window with Venetian blinds, you can either shorten the cords or anchor them to prevent your baby from reaching and getting hold of them. Avoid, if possible placing the crib near the window. As your baby grows into a toddler and begins to climb out of the crib, s/he could become seriously injured in a fall.

Blankets are not necessarily a good idea to use with your baby. Be sure that you avoid anything that could put your baby at risk, especially in the light of SIDS incidents today. The most advisable way to put your baby to bed is in a blanket sleeper.

Make sure to tuck the blanket tightly around and under the foot of the mattress with you baby's feet touching the footboard if you must have a blanket on your baby. You also want to help prevent your baby from sliding under the blanket and suffocating by not putting the blanket any higher than his chest.

There is a risk of your baby slipping between the mattress and the bumper pads causing suffocation, if bumper pads, which are a great concept, are not secured properly. Bumper pads if used should be fastened in each of the four corners and evenly spaced on each of the two sides. There should be sixteen ties in all, eight for the top and eight for the bottom.

Although mobiles are nice additions you need to take a precaution to prevent your baby from getting entangled in it. It must be removed when your baby starts sitting up by himself. You must also check to see if there are small parts that are removable that your baby could choke on.

No matter is your crib is second hand or one you had for a previous child, or you got it from someone else, the mattress must by checked out carefully. The mattress covering should be checked for any holes or cracks.

The mattress must fit in the crib properly. Your baby could slip between the mattress and side or end bars and suffocate if you are not careful. The mattress should be snug in the crib. The sheets you use in your baby crib should fit properly and not slip and slide.

There are sheet hooks available that attach to the sheet under the mattress and keep it in place. Placing the mattress in the proper position is extremely important to your baby's safety. When the baby comes home most parents put the mattress in the highest position because it is easier to reach the baby and change him.

Lower the mattress according to the growth and activity of your baby. If your baby can come to a standing position in the crib the mattress should be put in the lowest position and to add to his safety you should measure the distance between the mattress and the top of the sidebar.

There should be no more than 26 inches from the top of the side bar to the mattress when it is in the lowest position. Moving your child to a regular bed might be a good idea if your child is climbing out of the crib or his head is above the side bar.

There are convertible cribs that become beds and grow with your child. Inspect your child's crib to be sure there is nothing that will put your baby at risk. The ornate designs carved into the end boards of cribs are beautiful but could pose a hazard to your child. Have you seen them?

Your child could be injured if his head, arm, or leg get caught in them and possibly sustain an injury. A simpler design may increase your child's safety. Safety guidelines from 1974 for cribs state that slats should be no more than 2 and 3/8th inches apart; to keep your baby from getting his head caught between the slats.

Your baby's safety could be compromised if getting stuck caused him injury and necessitating the removal of some slats.

By : Martin Smith