Pacifiers are anatomically created to be used during the first two years of the child’s life. As a toddler grows up, parents start taking away the pacifier. Even if the pacifier is taken away, children get used to sucking their thumb, a harmful habit that can lead to bite problems.

The pacifier needs to be taken away before the toddler turn 3. This is the time when the child’s jaw is developing and sucking on a pacifier could have a harmful influence.

Problems Related to Pacifier Usage

If the toddler continues sucking on a pacifier for more than two years, a number of problems could occur.

If the toddler sucks on the pacifier all the time, some of the teeth could be misplaced and pushed forward. These deformations can result in chewing problems.

When teeth get pushed forward, the child will start breathing through the mouth instead of through the nose. The mouth cavity will get dried faster, which increases the risk of cavities appearing.

How to Get a Toddler to Stop Using the Pacifier

You need to get your child used to staying calm without a pacifier at the age of eight months. This is when the child gradually stops sucking and starts chewing on food.

Substitute the pacifier with a rubber or gel toy that can be chewed. This will make the transition smoother and the child will not miss sucking on something.

The child should not be subjected to additional pressure when you are trying to take away the pacifier. It is inappropriate to start the process if the parents are quarreling or going through divorce, if a senior family member has passed away or if any other traumatic event is taking place in the family.

Get the toddler used to the fact that the pacifier will appear only at bedtime, helping it to fall asleep effortlessly. If the child is used to sucking on the pacifier all the time, it will get used to sucking on its thumb.

A toddler’s need to suck on something is usually satisfied within several minutes. Provide the pacifier for brief periods of time and then take it away. Give the child the pacifier only when you are certain that this is the specific item demanded. If the child needs comfort, it will be better to provide a hug rather than a pacifier.

Try to take the pacifier out of your toddler’s mouth, once the child falls asleep. Most children spit the pacifier after 15 to 20 minutes of deep sleep. If the child wakes up, leave the pacifier. Otherwise, your toddler will experience sleeping problems in an attempt to protect the favorite comforting item.

Many children demand their pacifier whenever they are bored or strictly on habitual grounds. In such instances, play with the child and do your best to keep your toddler entertained and happy.

Get rid of the pacifier all together. This might be very difficult in the beginning but for many toddlers, the strategy is more efficient than a gradual approach.

Use a simple trick. Make the pacifier boring. Use a pin to pierce it. When the air goes out of it, the child will no longer enjoy sucking on the pacifier. Ask a friend to dress as the Pacifier Fairy and to take away your toddler’s pacifier, providing in return a wonderful gift.

Be patient and gentle with your child. Stopping the usage of the pacifier should not turn into a traumatizing experience. Comfort your child and provide entertainment that will make the transition easier.

Jamie Highland writes about various family and baby topics. For more info or to check out some pacifier baby shower theme items or some baby shower gifts, visit My Baby Shower Favors. If you want more articles, visit our site and click on the Contact Us link. Note: You can reprint this article in your ezine, blog, or website as long as the credits remain intact and hyperlinks remain active and dofollow.
Article Source

1. Diapers. It may not be the most interesting gift for a baby shower but it is the most practical and most appreciated gift for the new parents. They will be happy to receive lots of diapers because the baby will needs tons of this up to his toddler stage. It is also safe to buy the larger size since babies grow rapidly.

2. Baby Bathroom Essentials. Giving bathroom essentials such as towel, baby cologne, lotion, body scrub and bubble bath will also be useful for the baby. You may buy these items in sets, which may cost cheaper rather than buying them in pieces. It is also a good idea to buy items with interesting designs.

3. Bottles and Pacifiers. These are also usable items. However, some babies want to use only a specific shape or brand. It is safer to check with the parents-to-be if they have specific choice for these items.

4. Baby Clothes. This is one of the basic necessities of a baby. It is a good idea to buy clothes, which the baby may use later than buying sizes for the newborn. After all, babies will grow fast and their clothing size change very quickly.

5. Baby Toys. If you prefer to give baby toys or something entertaining, it is a good idea to give something educational and will stimulate the mental power of your child.  You can buy baby storybooks or educational compact disc. In buying books, choose those that have large and colorful pictures.

There you have some useful and practical gift ideas, which you may bring to a baby shower. If you still cannot decide, a gift certificate would be the safest gift you can give. The new parents will also be able to buy items which they really need.

Want more source of knowledge? Visit solar pond pump which showcases various pond waterfall pumps, information, and purchasing guides.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/5-useful-and-practical-gift-ideas-for-a-baby-shower-1788047.html

Travelling with your little one can be both fun and challenging at the same time.  Last minute packing can often lead to a stressful time , that little one has so much to pack!

Make a master check list a few days ahead of your travel listing all the important things.  This time will allow you to add things to the list that you may have forgotten upon initiating the list.  Try to  pack a few days ahead so if you need to go shopping  you will have plenty of time.  Use a diaper bag with a waterproof lining and preferably a shoulder strap ( for comfort).

Here are a few things we consider “must haves” that will help you start your list:

ü  Diapers

ü  Wipes

ü  Change pad

ü  Diaper rash crème

ü  Disinfecting hand gel

ü  Extra pacifiers ( if using)

ü  Extra food

ü  Snacks

ü  Water (for a nursing Mom)

ü  Tissues

ü  Blankets

ü  Toys

ü  Updated safety kit (especially if travelling by car)

ü  Change of clothes ( at least 2 per day)

ü  Safety mirror ( for rear facing infant seat)

ü  Sun screen to protect your baby from heat and sun

ü  Burp clothes

ü  Bibs

ü  Bottles

ü  Sippy cups

ü  Shampoo, soap and body lotion

ü  Prevent leaks by packing medicines and toiletries in resealable plastic bags

ü  Don’t forget the camera!

Because there is so much to pack, a good idea is to pack travel size products, you can always purchase more when you get to your destination.

Most important of all…..have fun!

Ronnie Baram holds a degree in early childhood education from Oranim, the education division of Haifa University. She resided on a kibbutz in Israel for 15 years where she concentrated on special ed, eventually becoming the managing director of the elementary school education program for the community. She moved back to Toronto in 1987 with her husband and 3 children. Her experience on the kibbutz, where the philosophy was to create the most imaginative and wonderful world for children to grow up in, sparked a passion for all things designed and handmade for children. Out of this appreciation for unique designs with children in mind, Petiteposh.com was born

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/are-you-ready-for-a-road-trip-travel-easy-1590447.html