You may not think twice about keeping these pesticides in and around your home. But you should stop and consider where and how you store and use them.

Pesticide facts
A pesticide is a substance designed to kill pests – usually insects and rodents. Sprays, powders, liquids, or bait used for this purpose are pesticides. You might be surprised to learn that even certain germ-destroying cleaners are considered pesticides because they kill bacteria (a type of “pest”).

But pesticides aren’t just harmful to the critters they’re designed to kill. They can also cause serious health problems if accidentally swallowed or in some cases simply come in contact with the skin. Babies and children are especially at risk for pesticide poisoning. They crawl and play close to the ground, where the chemicals are often applied or stored.

How to protect your family
Thousands of children are exposed to dangerous pesticides every year and require treatment. Here are some tips for reducing the risk in your own home:

• Lock them up. Store hazardous substances in a cabinet high above the level a child can reach. Keeping them under lock and key is even safer.
• Keep the original containers. Do not transfer pesticides or other chemicals into containers that were previously used for other things, especially food or drinks.
• Reseal containers after use. Even if you are stepping away for just a moment, replace all child-resistant lids and place them back on a high shelf and locked cabinet.
• Read all product instructions. Pay close attention to whether you need to wait a certain amount of time before letting children or pets back in the treated area.
• Get down on their level. The best way to identify potential hazards is to look at the world through a child’s eyes – on your hands and knees.
• Educate your kids. Teach children that pesticides – even seemingly mild ones like insect repellant – are harmful. Make sure kids know to leave these items alone if they come across them. Also remind them to alert an adult if they find poisons left out in the open.
• Educate caregivers, too. Babysitters should also be aware of the potential dangers and warning signs of poisoning. Post the number for Poison Control near the phone.

Know the warning signs

A child who has been poisoned by pesticides may have symptoms similar to the flu, such as headache, dizziness, and weakness. If you suspect your child has been exposed to a dangerous substance, call the Poison Control Center (603-2615 3333) at and seek emergency medical help right away.

(Source: MyOptumHealth, July 2011)

1. Remember that babies aren’t really breakable. Don’t be afraid to hold yours! Ask someone who is around to show you some great holds for little ones whether it be a midwife, doctor, nurse, confinement lady, mom, relative, friend, etc.
2. If you are feeling left out talk to your wife about it. Chances are it’s not on purpose.
3. New moms often have emotional ups and downs that are not predictable. Be supportive and offer an ear when possible. Learn the warning signs of postpartum depression and seek help if the situation is heading out of control.
4. Support her with breastfeeding. Tell her that you’re proud of her and protect her from well meaning but negative comments about breastfeeding. Take a breastfeeding class during the prenatal period if possible.
5. Help with the other children or household. Remind mom to let the house go and to focus on her recovery and the new baby.
6. New dads can also experience the blues or postpartum depression. Much in your life has changed and its important to realize this and get help if you need it as well.
7. Remember that the only thing you can’t do is breastfeed. You can change diapers, soothe a crying baby, carry the baby, bath the baby, play with the baby, anything the baby needs done – you can do it also .
8. If you need help ask for it. Know who to call in your area for help and support whether it be a doctor or midwife, a confinement lady, lactation consultant, or the local babysitter.
9. Mom is going to need extra sleep and care while her body recovers. Get up with the baby when you can. Bring the baby to her in the middle of the night if possible. If you must go back to work check in with her during the day. Perhaps surprise her with some healthy take out food or fresh flowers.
10. Remember that adding a new baby to the mix is always going to stir your life up a bit, even if it’s not your first baby. Learning to live with another human being takes time. Give yourself a break if you need it as well.

Parents of special-needs children face different challenges than parents of “normal” kids. Daily routines may not be simple and predictable. Special tools and tactics are often needed to perform even basic tasks, like feeding a meal or engaging a child in play. Long-term planning and dreams may take a back seat to day-to-day survival.

In the beginning: coping with the diagnosis

Parents are rarely prepared to learn that their child has a birth defect, developmental disorder, or health condition. Facing such a diagnosis can spark feelings of grief, loss, guilt, fear, sadness, and denial. Parents may withdraw from friends and family and feel isolated and alone.

It’s important to work through these emotions early on. Talk to your partner and other family members about the diagnosis and what it means for the future. It may help to see a counselor on your own or with the rest of your family. Keeping a journal about your thoughts and feelings may be healing as well.

You will have to adjust your expectations and hopes to fit what may feel like a scary new path. Accepting this and shifting your mind-set to a more positive one will make it easier to help your child with his or her own challenges.

Connect with professionals

Often, early intervention and treatment can have a positive impact on special-needs children. Once you have a diagnosis, it’s important to move forward quickly and seek out programs that may help your child. Organizations for your child’s specific condition can be a valuable resource for information, news, and family support.

It may feel intimidating to meet with doctors and other specialists. But don’t be afraid to speak up to make sure you fully understand why certain treatments and therapies are advised. Doing your own research will help you become a better advocate for your child.

Prepare for the reactions of others

Friends, family, and even people you don’t know very well may have different reactions to your child and his or her condition. Some may ask questions. These may be well-meaning, but can come off as insensitive. Others may just avoid the issue. Being prepared for this kind of contact is important so you’re not caught off-guard and too emotional to respond properly.

Briefly explain your child’s diagnosis if you wish. That should be answer enough for most people. You could also use these conversations as a way to raise awareness about your child’s condition. To help bridge the gap, give a few examples of how your child is like other kids.

Celebrate milestones

Many children with disabilities don’t meet their milestones at the same rate as other kids do. This can be frustrating for parents who can’t help but compare their special-needs child to normally developing peers.

Try to focus on the things your child is able to do. Celebrate even simple triumphs with much fanfare. Acknowledge the positive impact your child can have on the world around him or her. The future can still hold hope and promise for your child, even if that future isn’t the one you had originally imagined.

Remember – You are not alone! There are several support groups and associations that you can join and where you can get support, share experience and tips with other parents.

Some Non-Profit Organization’s in Malaysia are:

Handicapped and Mentally Disabled Children’s Association (http://www.handicapjb.org.my/)

Down Syndrome Fondation (http://www.kiwanis.org.my/)

Malaysia Care (http://www.malaysiancare.org/index.cfm?menuid=12)

http://pocam.org/

http://www.damai.org.my/

Retinoblastoma, which affects the retina of children aged under five, can result in the eye being removed if there is any delay in treating it.

Spotting the presence of a tumour is key – and sometimes all it takes is a photograph.

The most common sign of retinoblastoma is a white glow in the pupil of the eye, which can look like a ‘cat’s eye’ in a photograph, especially when there is a ‘red eye’ look in the other eye.

The ‘glow’ is caused by the light reflecting off the tumour at the back of the baby’s eye.

Saving sight

Ali Fryer, mother of Darcey, has the vigilance of a friend to thank for her daughter’s diagnosis in February when she was six months old.

“An ex piano pupil of mine saw a tiny glow in Darcey’s right eye and suggested I take her to the doctor. I took her there the next morning and our GP sent us straight to eye casualty. It was confirmed that afternoon.”

Later, in an effort to thank Ruthie for what she did, Ali asked her to be Darcey’s godmother.

Ali had never heard of the condition before and she and her husband had no idea what the future would hold for their daughter. It was a confusing and distressing time.

Chemotherapy at Great Ormond Street Hospital followed and Darcey has regular examinations under anaesthetic at the Royal London Hospital to check on her progress.

“Had the tumour been half a degree bigger at diagnosis, her eye would have been removed immediately. ”At the moment there’s a chance that six months of chemo might save it.”

One in 20,000

Darcey has around a 50% chance of keeping her right eye. The danger is that a tumour could develop in her other eye too – but this is very rare.

Meanwhile, the chemotherapy treatment is shrinking the tumour and Darcey is coping well with the few side-effects.

An illustration of how retinoblastoma could look in a young baby’s eye

“We are prescribed anti-sickness drugs, a lactulose solution to combat constipation, a lovely thick cream for drying skin and as for hair loss – well, she only had a few strands really,” Ali says.

The family have community nurses visiting twice a week, monitoring her chemotherapy and carrying out blood tests.

“They are brilliant,” says Ali. “They could not make it easier for us.”

Retinoblastoma affects one in every 20,000 babies born each year and represents 3% of childhood cancers in the UK.

The good news is that 98% of children treated will survive, but because most cases are not picked up early enough about 80% of children affected will have an eye removed.

Ashwin Reddy, children’s eye surgeon and retinoblastoma expert at The Royal London Hospital, says the tumour can kill.

“Spotting the white reflex or white glow in the eye can make a vital difference because the tumour won’t be so advanced and we might not have to remove the eye.

“We don’t want to panic parents but they can prevent the risk of death by getting their child seen earlier.”

No guarantee

The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust are leading the push to make parents more aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease – and they are targeting the ‘little red book’ and Birth to Five book, both issued to new parents.

Julie Firth, from the cancer trust, says: “The information on childhood eye cancer provided by the NHS for parents is pretty sketchy and non-existent in some places.

“We feel the NHS has a duty to inform parents about the disease to avoid a delay in diagnosis.”

While chemotherapy is the standard treatment for retinoblastoma, laser therapy and radiotherapy can also be tried.

A relatively new type of chemotherapy in which the drugs are delivered directly to the eye through an artery in the leg avoids the normal complications of chemotherapy given via a central intravenous line.

But there is still no guarantee that it will be successful.

Children who are unfortunate to have their eye surgically removed can have an artificial eye fitted about six weeks after the operation.

Ali is adamant that anyone can spot the signs of retinoblastoma: “If you see something unusual about a baby or a young child’s eye, please take it to the doctor.

“It could well be nothing, and you gain peace of mind. Or it could be something which needs treatment – and if it’s retinoblastoma, you may save your child’s eyes, if not their life.”

(Source: BBC News, May 7th 2011)

Every year the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other expert panels release new recommendations for childhood immunization schedules. The schedules change based on developments in vaccine research, disease outbreaks, country and other information.

With so many vaccines and yearly changes, it can be confusing for parents. That’s why it’s important to build a partnership with your pediatrician or family doctor. Your doctor can help keep your children up to date and keep copies of required immunization records.

Here is the most recent information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Types of  children diseases and available vaccines:

Chickenpox

Chickenpox (varicella) is a common childhood disease. It is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young infants, teens, pregnant women and adults. Chickenpox causes a rash that turns into blisters with itching. Other common symptoms include fever and fatigue. It can lead to severe skin infection, scars, pneumonia, brain damage or death. More…

Diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis (DTaP)

Diphtheria: An infection of the throat that can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure and death.

Tetanus: A potentially deadly illness that causes painful tightening of the muscles and locking of the jaw.

Pertussis: Also called whooping cough, this disease causes the buildup of sticky, thick mucus in the windpipe. Whooping cough can lead to pneumonia and seizures. More…

Tetanus and diphtheria toxoid and pertussis vaccine is given as a booster for the diseases of diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis that were mentioned above.

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B

Hepatitis A: A viral disease that attacks the liver, causing flu-like symptoms, jaundice, nausea and stomach pains. More…

Hepatitis B: A viral disease that can cause acute short-term symptoms, such as loss of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting, jaundice, pain in muscles, joints and stomach, and fatigue. It can also lead to liver failure and liver cancer. More…

Haemophilus influenzae (Hib)

This is a bacterial infection that can affect the brain, bloodstream, bones, joints, lungs and windpipe. Before the vaccine was developed, Hib was the most common cause of meningitis, a serious infection of the brain. More…

Measles, mumps and rubella

Measles: This is a highly contagious disease that can lead to pneumonia, seizures, brain damage and death.

Mumps: A viral infection characterized by swelling of the salivary glands near the neck. It can lead to deafness, meningitis, painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries and, rarely, death.

Rubella: Also known as German measles, rubella is a viral illness that causes a rash, mild fever and arthritis (mostly in women). It can cause birth defects or miscarriage if a woman is infected during the first three months of her pregnancy.

There are 2 types of Vaccine available in the market: MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella) or MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella & Varicella)

Meningococcal

These bacteria can cause a serious infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and blood (sepsis). More…

Pneumococcal

The pneumoccoccal bacteria can cause serious infections of the lungs (pneumonia), the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and the blood (sepsis). The bacteria also cause ear infections.

There are 2 types of Vaccine available in the market: Pneumococcal Conjugate (VIS-PCV) or Pneumococcal Polysaccharide (PPSV)

Polio

Polio is a viral disease that attacks the brain, spinal cord and central nervous system, causing paralysis and death. There are 2 types of vaccine for Polio in the market: Polio – IPV Vaccine or Polio – OPV Vaccine

Influenza vaccine (shot) or influenza vaccine (nasal spray)

Influenza (flu) is a viral illness seen in the winter that causes fever, cough and muscle aches. It can lead to pneumonia, and kills tens of thousands of people every year. There are 2 types of Vaccine in the market: Inactivated Influenza or live, intranasal influenza.

Human papillomavirus

Girls should receive a series of shots to protect against:

Human papillomavirus, or HPV. The HPV vaccine offers protection from the viruses that cause genital warts and most cervical cancers. There are 2 available vaccines in the market: Gardasil and Cervarix

Rotavirus

The rotavirus causes vomiting and watery diarrhea with fever and belly pain. Infection with the virus can lead to dangerous dehydration in children. Keep in mind that your baby can still get diarrhea from other germs. The rotavirus, though, commonly causes the most severe kind of stomach flu in babies. More…

Note: In the late 1990s a different type of rotavirus vaccine was used. This vaccine was found to be linked with an uncommon type of bowel obstruction called intussusception, and it was taken off the market. The new rotavirus vaccines have not been linked to intussusception.

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a serious infection caused by a virus. It occurs mainly in rural parts of Asia. JE virus spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes.  It cannot spread directly from person to person. Most people infected with JE virus don’t have  any symptoms at all. For others, JE virus infection can cause illness ranging from fever and headache to severe encephalitis (brain infection). Symptoms of encephalitis are fever, neck stiffness, seizures, changes in consciousness or coma. There are 2 types of vaccine available in the market: Je-Vax and Ixiaro.

If you want to know what are the obligatory and recommended vaccination in Malaysia please click here!

Other available Vaccinations:

Rabies

Rabies is a serious disease. It is caused by a virus. Rabies is mainly a disease of animals. Humans get rabies when they are bitten by infected animals.  At first there might not be any symptoms. But weeks, or even months after a bite, rabies can cause pain, fatigue, headaches, fever, and irritability. These are followed by seizures, hallucinations, and paralysis.

Human rabies is almost always fatal. Wild animals – especially bats – are the most common source of human rabies infection. Skunks, raccoons, dogs, cats, coyotes, foxes and other mammals can also transmit the disease.  However, between 16,000 and 39,000 people are vaccinated each year as a precaution after animal bites. Bites from unvaccinated dogs cause most of these cases. More…

(Source: http://www.immunize.org/vis/, April 25th 2011)

Chances are you and your family will be spending a bit of time in it daily as you ferry back and forth from home to daycare/babysitter’s house or to grandma’s house and shopping. If you’re planning on taking local holidays, you will be spending even more time in your car. As such, there are a few things you will need to consider for your family’s safety and comfort.

Here are some things that we suggest you consider when buying your family car:

1. What size?

Having a snazzy and cute little hatchback was a nice idea when you were single or when there was just you and your spouse. But you will have to give it up once you start having kids because there won’t be enough space if your car is small.

When the word “family” pops up, think B-I-G.

Will the car you want have enough space for everyone? Are you planning on having two or three children? Do your parents or in-laws stay with you? Do you have a helper? Count everyone and be honest because you don’t want to buy a Honda City for your family of three and then realise you forgot to count your in-laws and the helper.

Remember that children need to be seated in child car seats. If you are planning on having three then your car needs to be able to seat your spouse and the three car seats … or, you will need two cars. An option is to explore better family planning so that one child is a bit bigger and can sit on the booster seat while the other two are in their car seats. Still, you will need one seat belt for each so make sure you have enough for everybody!

2. Boot space

Once you have kids, factor in carrying the stroller in the car boot. If you have more than one small child, that’ll be a double stroller. If you live in an apartment don’t forget you’ll need to store your shopping trolley in there, too. And, if you’re planning on road trips for the next five to 10 years, you’ll need to store your luggage in there, too!

Don’t be surprised if you start eyeing those big MPVs (multi purpose vehicles).

3. Safety features

This is the most important aspect of your car-buying mission. What sort of safety features does the car offer? How many airbags and where (more on this later). Is there an ABS (Anti Lock Braking System) or anti-skid system? How about a child safety lock?

Make sure the car you buy has enough safety features for your family. This is one element that should never be compromised.

4. Airbags

While airbags are great and most people think more airbags are even better, exactly where are the airbags? Find out because the type of child car seat you have or intend to buy can depend on where the airbags are. You don’t want your child in a forward facing car seat if the airbag is going to impact her and wedge her between it and the seat. This can crush your baby!

If you need to, take all your child car seats with you when you’re going for a test drive and make the sales agent install all of them and then explain where the airbags will be and how safe your child will be then. Don’t be embarrassed to ask. They want that sale and so they will do it, no matter how long it takes.

5. Weaknesses

Make sure you do a web search on the car before you buy it. Find out the problem areas that users complain about. There is usually at least one or two weaknesses. If the car you want is cute but has a tendency to overheat … reconsider buying it because you don’t want to be caught on a Saturday afternoon in a traffic jam in Kuala Lumpur with your three children screaming in the car and find your car has overheated and stalled.

6. Service centre

This is not a priority but still could be a factor in the long run. The car is great … but where is the service centre? As parents, you don’t really have the time to drive 20km from your home to go to a service centre that is so far from your home. Also ask other users what the customer service at the service centre is like.

7. Seat material

If you’re getting a car with cloth seat covers, go for a darker colour. The children will spill food and drinks. Your car seats will be stained. There is no way you can train them not to. This is inevitable. Just accept it and get seats with darker covers.

Otherwise opt for leather seats – any spills are easy to clean by just wiping.

8. In-car entertainment

This is entirely up to you. Some parents prefer to have it as it keeps the children occupied for the duration of long trips. Some say it’s okay as long as it’s not above or near the driver. And some just don’t like it. This one is up to you, as long as it’s not too distracting for the driver. Take note of how hidden or exposed the unit is as it would attract thieves. Also take note of whether your children will be able to reach the unit and fiddle with it – higher chance of them breaking off parts or spoiling the unit, etc.

Conclusion

When you decide to go shopping for a car, take the family along. There are things that your small child might notice that you might not. The car might be too high for him to climb into or the back area might be too small.

Talk to other parents, too. Nothing so helpful as the experiences of others who have gone down this path and have tried or are using the car you’re eyeing.

(Source: The Star Online, 18th April 2011)

But why suffer? Research has shown that there are several therapies and strategies that can ease the pain and get you back on track.

First, call your doctor if you are having back or pelvic pain to be sure you are not going into labor or are having a medical issue that needs to be addressed.

The root of the problem

Though the pain can occur at any point during your pregnancy, it is more common in the later stages, as your weight goes up. Women who are most at risk are those who are overweight or have had back pain prior to pregnancy. In addition:

Most pregnancy weight gain is distributed around your abdomen. This puts pressure on your back as your center of gravity shifts forward.

As your baby grows and your pelvis starts to spread, certain pregnancy hormones make your joints less stable, leading to pain in the back.

The extra weight of your baby also changes the center of gravity of your body. This increases the postural strain, causing back pain.

Relief is on the way

Back and pelvic pain are hard to prevent completely. But, there are things you can do to lessen its severity or frequency.

Research has shown that the following therapies, when combined with standard treatment, have been more effective at easing these conditions than standard treatment alone.

• Acupuncture. This is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points in the body. It is usually safe and painless when done properly. Several studies have shown that acupuncture, when used with more traditional treatments, may give some relief from back and pelvic pain. Check with your doctor before you start any acupuncture treatment. Always look for a qualified practitioner who is licensed or certified.
• Stabilizing exercises, such as stretching and light movement, have been shown to decrease muscle spasms. This leads to easier labor, delivery and recovery after childbirth.  They can also help strengthen and stretch muscles that support the back and legs and promote good posture. This keeps the muscles of the back, the abdomen, the hips and the upper body strong.

Before you start any exercises, check with your doctor, who can advise you on the proper exercises and suggest any restrictions, if needed.

• Water gymnastics is geared toward expectant mothers from their 20th week right up to birth time. The classes, known as “aqua-natal” classes, are generally conducted in a warm hydrotherapy indoor pool. They are thought to help ease back or pelvic pain for the following reasons:
  • Exercising in water relieves stress on weight-bearing joints and allows increased freedom of movement.
  • When the body is immersed in water it experiences hydrostatic pressure – a sort of inward squashing force. This can often significantly reduce swelling on the lower limbs and also help relieve joint pain.
  • Check out your local “Y” or gym to see if classes are offered in your area. Check with your doctor first to make sure these classes are right for you.

Other strategies

Pregnant women have also reported these strategies to be helpful:

• Squat to pick up something versus bending over.
• Avoid high heels and other shoes that do not provide adequate support. High heels also shift your center of gravity forward.
• Avoid sleeping on your back.
• Take a warm bath, or apply a warm jet of water from a showerhead to your back.
• Get plenty of rest. Elevating your feet is also good for your back.
• Sleep on your left side and use a support pillow under your knees and/or your tummy.

Though back or pelvic pain is common in pregnancy, you do want to contact your doctor right away if you are having any of the following:

• Severe back pain
• Pain that does not improve
• Back or pelvic pain that goes along with any vaginal bleeding or urinary problems
• Increasingly severe or sudden onset of back pain
• Rhythmic cramping pains – a possible sign of preterm labor
• Back and pelvic pain can be an uncomfortable side effect of pregnancy, but you don’t have to let it rule your life. Take these measures to ensure some control over your condition for a happier, healthier pregnancy.

(Source: MyOptumHealth, 2011)

Month 1

• Sleep and Relax as much as you can!
• Make an appointment for your baby’s first month doctor’s visit.
• Check yourself for signs of baby blues and postpartum depression.
• Learn how to care for your newborn’s umbilical cord.
• Learn how to change a diaper.
• Learn how to bath and dress your baby.
• Get help with breastfeeding or bottle feeding issues.
• Ask your doctor when it is OK to exercise.
• Record your newborn’s first days.
• Learn how to prevent SIDS.
• Get the most up-to-date info on vaccinations and decide what’s best for your child.
• Learn to burp your baby (and find out about spit up).
• Get Baby to fall asleep (and learn how to handle your own sleep issues).

Month 2

• Write a will.
• Make an appointment for your baby’s second month doctor’s visit.
• Decide if a pacifier is right for your baby.
• Start tracking your baby’s growth and development.
• Make an appointment for your postpartum checkup (and be sure to ask about birth control options).
• Figure out what to do if Baby gets fussy or colicky.
• Reorganize your home to accommodate baby and curb clutter.
• Learn how to avoid common parenting mistakes.
• Stock up on fun, developmental toys and baby gear.
• Know what to expect from your transition into motherhood.
• Don’t forget to send out those baby announcements!
• Join a parenting support group, online or in person.
• If you haven’t already started, be sure to read to your baby.
• Find out what you can do to help your baby’s development.
• For working moms, maternity leave is almost over. Figure out your new routine and get ready to return to the workplace.
• Find childcare or a babysitter.

Month 3

• Be sure Baby is getting enough tummy time.
• Give your wardrobe a once-over and define your new-mom style.
• Get help managing the kitchen. Look into meal prep options that save time and frustration.
• Communicate with Baby. Try baby signing and other techniques.
• Find out what you can do to help your baby’s development.
• Make a date to have lunch with a friend.

Month 4

• Schedule an appointment for your child’s fourth month doctor’s visit.
• Treat yourself and your baby to a Mommy and Me exercise class!
• Learn when and how to start Baby on solid foods.
• Start eating better and exercising regularly to boost your energy and lose that baby belly.
• Make time for your spouse. Plan a night out (or in!).
• Record your baby’s first few months in a scrapbook or baby book.
• Babyproof your house and protect your child from common household hazards.

Month 5

• Thwart separation anxiety (both your baby’s and yours!)
• Decide if a baby walker is right for your family.
• Let go of mother’s guilt!
• Play with your baby each day—it’s good for you both!
• Address your own needs by scheduling some alone time.
• Make lots of opportunities for dad-baby bonding.
• Plan a fun getaway for your entire family.
• Enter your adorable baby in our BaiBoo contests!
• Try making your own baby food.
• Prepare for emergencies and brush up on basic first aid skills.

Month 6

• Make an appointment for your six-month doctor checkup.
• Consider buying a special pillow or seat to help baby sit up on her own.
• Make sure your baby’s toys are safe.
• Save money when shopping for your family.
• Schedule an appointment to have a new family photo or baby portrait done.
• Move your baby into a crib if you haven’t already.
• Record your baby’s milestones and share them with friends and family!
• Save for your child’s  education and get your finances in order.

Your first Trimester Tasks

Month 1

• How to know?
• Time to share the good news with your partner!
• Find out what to expect from the first trimester.
• If you aren’t already, begin taking folic acid each day.
• Start keeping track of ideas for Baby Name.
• Begin researching hospitals.
• Choose your O&G Doctor.
• Schedule your first prenatal check-up with your O&G.
• Get to know the basics of fetal development.
• Figure out your due date.
• Stop smoking, drinking, and cut back on caffeine.
• Know what’s safe and what isn’t during pregnancy.
• Begin a pregnancy journal.
• Signs you shouldn’t ignore when pregant
• Connect with other women who are due the same month you are.
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.

Month 2

• Learn what to expect during weeks five through eight.
• Do Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles.
• Start eating a healthy and nutritious prenatal diet.
• Fight pregnancy anxiety and first trimester fears.
• Find out with our O&G which prenatal tests you may need.
• Know your optimal pregnancy weight range.
• Manage gas, the urge to urinate and other uncomfortable early pregnancy symptoms.
• Take steps to minimize your morning sickness.
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.

Month 3

• Learn what to expect during weeks 9 through 12 of pregnancy.
• Is your bra suddenly uncomfortable? Shop for a new bra and learn about pregnancy breast changes.
• Start a safe prenatal exercise routine.
• Speak with your doctor about getting the flu shot.
• Know what to expect from early screening tests.
• Involve your partner in your pregnancy.
• Time to share the good news with your in-laws and friends!
• Find out if you’re having twins (and if you are, plan accordingly).
• Schedule a prenatal massage!
• Manage pregnancy mood swings.
• Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water.
• Stock up on moisturizer and pamper your pregnancy skin.
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.

Your Second Trimester Tasks

Month 4

• Learn what to expect during weeks 13 through 16.
• Revise your budget to make room for baby.
• Start shopping for maternity clothes.
• Sign up now for antenatal classes!
• Want to get away? Plan a “babymoon” !
• Take baby’s first picture—the ultrasound!
• Find a sleep set up that’s comfortable and interpret wild pregnancy dreams.
• If you’re RH negative, it’s time to ask your doctor about a RhoGam shot.
• Take pictures of your growing belly.
• Help him be a better dad—look into parenting classes for him.
• Learn tips what you should consider when traveling in a car
• Tips for traveling in a plane
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.

Month 5

• Find out what to expect during weeks 17 through 20 of pregnancy.
• Time to tell your employer and update yourself on your company’s maternity leave policy.
• Figure out how much childcare you’ll need, and start researching your options.
• Decide whether you want to find out your baby’s gender now or let it be a surprise.
• If you haven’t had one lately, schedule a regular dental checkup.
• Your libido may be back in full force. Get comfortable with sex during pregnancy.
• Treat pregnancy heartburn whenever it flares up.
• Is baby moving? Know what to expect from baby’s first kicks!
• Try prenatal yoga for a mind-body workout.
• Have a heart-to-heart about pregnancy and parenthood with your partner.
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.

Month 6

• See what to expect during weeks 21 through 24 of pregnancy.
• Check your vision. Pregnancy vision changes are common, and can be a sign of complications.
• Get comfortable with your rapidly changing body and boost your self-esteem.
• Make a time-out to pamper yourself!
• Time to start preparing your nursery.
• Tend to pregnancy back aches.
• Start working out the details of your maternity leave now.
• Check out about pregnancy & baby’s development.
• Get information about Confinement dos & don’ts (Malay Confinement & Chinese Confinement)

Your Third Trimester Tasks

Month 7

• Find out what to expect during weeks 25 through 28 of your pregnancy.
• Find out about methods of giving birth and develop your birth plan.
• Make sure you know the signs of premature labor.
• Decide who will be in the delivery room with you.
• Care for painful pregnancy hemorrhoids.
• Buy your baby’s crib and mattress.
• Time to get your stroller!
• Know your cord blood banking options.
• Breast or bottle? Know all your feeding options.
• Get tested for gestational diabetes.
• Have baby clothes and necessities ready—prepare Baby’s layette.
• Check out videos about pregnancy & baby care.

Month 8

• See what to expect during weeks 29 through 32 of your pregnancy.
• Attend your baby shower. (And get the thank you notes out of the way as soon as possible!)
• Expecting a boy? Study up on circumcision and make sure you and your partner are on the same page.
• Put your feet up—they are working extra hard these days!
• Pack your hospital bag—your baby will be here soon!
• Shop for and learn how to install your baby car seat.
• Put together a family first aid kit.
• Buy your diaper bag, and stock up on diapering essentials.
• Attend your childbirth class.
• Build your email/phone tree for sharing the birth of your baby!
• Have your husband check to see if he’s eligible for paternity leave.
• Shop for a nursing bra.
• Check out videos about pregnancy & baby care.

Month 9

• Find out what to expect during the last weeks of your pregnancy.
• Study up on newborn vaccines and find out what’s best for your baby.
• Talk to your doctor about Baby’s position and how it may impact childbirth.
• Minalize your baby name selections.
• Pick out your baby announcements and thank you notes. (And address those envelopes now—time will be at a premium soon!)
• Buy a baby sling or baby carrier.
• Know your contractions. Recognize the differences between Braxton-Hicks contractions and true labor.
• Prepare yourself for labor and delivery.
• Wash and put away your baby’s new clothes.
• Prepare for your confinement (Malay Confinement & Chinese Confinement)) and the weeks after you give birth.
• Figure out how you feel about inducing labor. Learn the pros and cons.
• Relax and enjoy the last days before delivery!
• Check out videos about labour & pain relief.

Has baby arrived? Checklist for baby’s first 6 month!

Don’t be lulled into thinking that cough and cold medicines are harmless because they are sold in grocery stores andsay “children’s” on the label. Giving children too much cough and cold medicine can be dangerous. Hundreds of young children have suffered accidental overdoses from common over-the-counter medicines, and a few have died.

In 2008, the makers of many children’s cough and cold remedies changed their labels to have the following warnings:

• Do not give to children younger than 4 years of age.
• Do not use antihistamine products to sedate or make a child sleepy.

Most cough and cold remedies contain at least three active ingredients, all of them powerful medicines. Some of these ingredients can cause heart rhythm or blood vessel problems that can lead to high blood pressure or stroke. Antihistamines may make some breathing problems worse. Young children are especially sensitive to these effects. Many combination cold medicines also contain a pain reliever or fever reducer like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Overdose can occur if you give these along with other medicines for pain or fever. Never give any medicine containing aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger. Aspirin in children and teens increases the risk for a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Protect your child from medication side effects

Keep in mind that cold medicines won’t cure a cold. In fact, studies have shown that they don’t even relieve symptoms in children younger than age 6.

If you do give over-the-counter medicine to your child, follow these guidelines:

• Talk to your doctor before you give your child any over-the-counter medicine.
• Never use an over-the-counter medication to make a child sleepy.
• Do not give a child any medicine that is labeled only for older children or adults. Choose only products meant for your child’s specific age group.
• Always read the “Drug Facts” on the label. Check all the ingredients, and be sure you understand the warnings.
• Never give a child more than the recommended dose. And do not give the medicine more often than the label says.
• Do not use kitchen spoons to measure liquid medicines. Use the dropper or dosing spoon that came with the medicine, or buy one with the right measurements at your drugstore.
• Do not use a medicine if you aren’t sure how to give it to a child or whether it is safe for children. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist first.
• Keep all medicines out of sight and reach of children.

How to help your child feel better

Children get lots of colds, and it’s natural for parents to want to help them feel better. Instead of reaching for a medicine bottle, try these time-tested and doctor-approved ways to keep your child comfortable:

• Offer extra fluids to ease congestion and reduce fever.
• Make sure your child gets plenty of rest.
• Use saline nose drops in a child over 12 weeks old to help clear out mucous. For older babies, use only one drop at a time and apply to only one side at a time. A bulb syringe may help clear a stuffy nose if a child is too young to blow his nose.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to moisten the air and make breathing easier. Make sure to clean the humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

When to call the doctor for cold symptoms

If a child age 12 weeks or younger has any of the following cold symptoms, you should contact a doctor:

• Symptoms are not responding to treatment
• Symptoms last for two weeks or longer
• Fever lasts more than 72 hours
• Your child had been getting better and then the symptoms became worse
• New symptoms appear
• Your child has a weak immune system or other medical problem

Get immediate emergency help for:

• Fever of 105 degrees F or higher, or 100.4 degrees F in a child 12 weeks of age or younger
• Severe headache or stiff neck
• Call 9-1-1 if your child is having any trouble breathing.

(Source: MyOptumHealth, Jan 2011)