Tuesday, 30 June 2009
Planes and Babies
Thinking of going on a plane with your baby ? Read our tip sheet - http://www.4little1s.com/acatalog/babies_planes.html
Friday, 26 June 2009
Baby congratulations
Congratulations!
You might be the proud parent shopping for baby or the excited new grandparent, aunty, uncle or friend wanting to shower baby with gifts. Whatever your role we’ve got just what you’re looking for. From cots and pushchairs to clothes and toys, there’s plenty to spoil baby with.
4little1s.com
You might be the proud parent shopping for baby or the excited new grandparent, aunty, uncle or friend wanting to shower baby with gifts. Whatever your role we’ve got just what you’re looking for. From cots and pushchairs to clothes and toys, there’s plenty to spoil baby with.
4little1s.com
Pregnancy 14 weeks
If you are a 14 Weeks Pregnant ......
Your baby now starts to develop something called lanugo, a fine downy hair that covers the body. However, by the time you reach week twenty of your pregnancy this will cover you baby from head to tiny toes. This then starts to shed about thirty six weeks and if you reach full term in your pregnancy then you wll probably find nothing there...
Your baby now starts to develop something called lanugo, a fine downy hair that covers the body. However, by the time you reach week twenty of your pregnancy this will cover you baby from head to tiny toes. This then starts to shed about thirty six weeks and if you reach full term in your pregnancy then you wll probably find nothing there...
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Nursery Furniture and Nursery Bedding
BABY MARKETING PLAN
OK, spending the morning thinking through our marketing plan and the various methods we are using to get customers in. We use a wide range of paid and non paid approaches, wish I could do all all of them myself but don't have enough hours in the day...there are only 24.
Will work on a PR article for nursery furniture today and look to get it issued over the next few days.
OK, spending the morning thinking through our marketing plan and the various methods we are using to get customers in. We use a wide range of paid and non paid approaches, wish I could do all all of them myself but don't have enough hours in the day...there are only 24.
Will work on a PR article for nursery furniture today and look to get it issued over the next few days.
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Baby learning
Baby learning
Do you recall how keen your little ones were at learning….., wanting to understand and learn about the world every second of the day.
The keenness being so strong that the love of learning was so huge that it was almost impossible to take time for a little sleep . Things to do, touch, eat put in mouth…there was just no time for sleep…it was boring apart from anything else ! Sleep ? aggghh forget it !
Well don’t forget that playing is learning as well, and your little one is raring to go at 100 mph. When looking for baby toys, look for brightly colored toys and anything that makes a noise is a bonus (sorry parents!) A tip I have picked up over the years is look for toys that have an off switch rather than having to wait for the batteries to wear out. Texture is also interesting and you should buy a mixture of smooth and rough texture toys if you are able so your little one learns about rough and smooth.
If you can, try to create “a world of learning” in your house by ‘showing’ rather than telling
their kids that learning is exciting.
Don’t forget that learning is happening all the time, not just at home but everywhere, at nursery, in the car, visiting your friends or parents. Don’t forget to take the favorite toy with you. Even in a cot looking around the nursery and on the ceiling, especially if there is a baby mobile hanging up there. 4little1s.com has a wide range of baby toys and baby mobiles on their website all at great prices
Remember though, that you don’t always need to buy toys or games to aide learning. Simple games like singing, talking or even playing peak a boo all help build up babies understanding of the world surrounding baby.
Do you recall how keen your little ones were at learning….., wanting to understand and learn about the world every second of the day.
The keenness being so strong that the love of learning was so huge that it was almost impossible to take time for a little sleep . Things to do, touch, eat put in mouth…there was just no time for sleep…it was boring apart from anything else ! Sleep ? aggghh forget it !
Well don’t forget that playing is learning as well, and your little one is raring to go at 100 mph. When looking for baby toys, look for brightly colored toys and anything that makes a noise is a bonus (sorry parents!) A tip I have picked up over the years is look for toys that have an off switch rather than having to wait for the batteries to wear out. Texture is also interesting and you should buy a mixture of smooth and rough texture toys if you are able so your little one learns about rough and smooth.
If you can, try to create “a world of learning” in your house by ‘showing’ rather than telling
their kids that learning is exciting.
Don’t forget that learning is happening all the time, not just at home but everywhere, at nursery, in the car, visiting your friends or parents. Don’t forget to take the favorite toy with you. Even in a cot looking around the nursery and on the ceiling, especially if there is a baby mobile hanging up there. 4little1s.com has a wide range of baby toys and baby mobiles on their website all at great prices
Remember though, that you don’t always need to buy toys or games to aide learning. Simple games like singing, talking or even playing peak a boo all help build up babies understanding of the world surrounding baby.
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
Baby bedding and nursery furniture
Nursery Furniture, Baby bedding and baby gifts for all.
If you have just discovered you are pregnant, first of all CONGRATUALTIONS !!
As your mind is spinning around about all the various elements you need to think about, including fitting out your spare room as a nursery, 4little1s.com is here to help.
One of the simplest and easiest approach to fitting out a nursery with nursery furniture and baby bedding is to buy a complete set from our website.
Nursery furniture and baby bedding sets allow you to buy everything in one go, in a matching set and from one place. This means you then do not need to worry if something goes ‘end of line’ and you then need to hunt around from shop to shop or website to website, searching for that elusive missing piece…err no thanks!
A nursery furniture set typically includes a Cot, wardrobe, changing unit / set of drawers and a mattress. Some of our ranges include free delivery and even free assembly, if you are not the DIY type. The fitters will even take away all the packaging the nursery furniture came in, so no large boxes and packages outside the house until collection day.
Don’t forget nursery bedding for the nursery, we offer some great bargains on something called bedding bales. Everything you need for your little ones new nursery room. Baby bedding sets even include matching items for the nursery to really make the place special for baby. We have items such as wallpaper borders, matching toys, curtains, lampshade and even artwork all at 4little1s.com.
One tip for baby bedding, I learned the hard way, is you can never have enough clean sheets, believe me from experience, finding out you don’t have a clean spare sheet at 3am is ‘serious sense of humour failure territory’ ! Buy extra when you buy your bedding sets, we can supply these easily.
Some of our most popular nursery furniture sets are from Izziwotnot and Lollipop Lane..…each providing great and imaginative styles as well as also offering traditional ranges and looks. We are more than happy to talk to you and answer any questions you may have about each line…do drop us a line or email.
Some of the most popular baby bedding sets have been Lottie Fairy Princess and the Humphrey’s Corner ranges as well as Little Red Car.
Visit our website today and see the full ranges of baby bedding.
Finally, if you are buying for a friend or family member, we offer a wide range of fantastic baby gifts ranging from baby bouquets, baby hampers, wooden toys and if you are truly looking for something a little unusual, a great soft toy range called Deglingos…these are super quirky but fun.
Totally unique to 4little1s.com are our Children Plaques. They are handmade by my Cousin in California and made to order, these plaques really don’t do themselves justice on a website, in real life they are absolutely fantastic and everyone who has bought one has commented how surprised they were and how much better they were in real life.
We also have a great offer if you would like to send fresh flowers to the new parents. See our home page for more information and click on the advert to take you the flower site.
Buying online at 4little1s.com couldn’t be simpler, simply visit www.4little1s.com and then look at the nursery furniture or baby bedding set section, browse away to your hearts content.
Cannot find what you are looking for? No problem, just email sales@4little1s.com or call us and we help out. Need to ask a question about a product or need more information about it and talk to a mum who has been there done it and got the T Shirt…again, no worries drop us a line, we are more than happy to talk about any of our products.
If you have just discovered you are pregnant, first of all CONGRATUALTIONS !!
As your mind is spinning around about all the various elements you need to think about, including fitting out your spare room as a nursery, 4little1s.com is here to help.
One of the simplest and easiest approach to fitting out a nursery with nursery furniture and baby bedding is to buy a complete set from our website.
Nursery furniture and baby bedding sets allow you to buy everything in one go, in a matching set and from one place. This means you then do not need to worry if something goes ‘end of line’ and you then need to hunt around from shop to shop or website to website, searching for that elusive missing piece…err no thanks!
A nursery furniture set typically includes a Cot, wardrobe, changing unit / set of drawers and a mattress. Some of our ranges include free delivery and even free assembly, if you are not the DIY type. The fitters will even take away all the packaging the nursery furniture came in, so no large boxes and packages outside the house until collection day.
Don’t forget nursery bedding for the nursery, we offer some great bargains on something called bedding bales. Everything you need for your little ones new nursery room. Baby bedding sets even include matching items for the nursery to really make the place special for baby. We have items such as wallpaper borders, matching toys, curtains, lampshade and even artwork all at 4little1s.com.
One tip for baby bedding, I learned the hard way, is you can never have enough clean sheets, believe me from experience, finding out you don’t have a clean spare sheet at 3am is ‘serious sense of humour failure territory’ ! Buy extra when you buy your bedding sets, we can supply these easily.
Some of our most popular nursery furniture sets are from Izziwotnot and Lollipop Lane..…each providing great and imaginative styles as well as also offering traditional ranges and looks. We are more than happy to talk to you and answer any questions you may have about each line…do drop us a line or email.
Some of the most popular baby bedding sets have been Lottie Fairy Princess and the Humphrey’s Corner ranges as well as Little Red Car.
Visit our website today and see the full ranges of baby bedding.
Finally, if you are buying for a friend or family member, we offer a wide range of fantastic baby gifts ranging from baby bouquets, baby hampers, wooden toys and if you are truly looking for something a little unusual, a great soft toy range called Deglingos…these are super quirky but fun.
Totally unique to 4little1s.com are our Children Plaques. They are handmade by my Cousin in California and made to order, these plaques really don’t do themselves justice on a website, in real life they are absolutely fantastic and everyone who has bought one has commented how surprised they were and how much better they were in real life.
We also have a great offer if you would like to send fresh flowers to the new parents. See our home page for more information and click on the advert to take you the flower site.
Buying online at 4little1s.com couldn’t be simpler, simply visit www.4little1s.com and then look at the nursery furniture or baby bedding set section, browse away to your hearts content.
Cannot find what you are looking for? No problem, just email sales@4little1s.com or call us and we help out. Need to ask a question about a product or need more information about it and talk to a mum who has been there done it and got the T Shirt…again, no worries drop us a line, we are more than happy to talk about any of our products.
Monday, 8 June 2009
Baby Bedding and Nursery Furniture
4little1s.com business update
The last 18 months of trading has been a real whirlwind with us achieving all our predicated financial and expansion targets. Thanks to a good solid business plan, marketing plan and a robust set of financial templates sales and good and continue to grow.
The growth of nursery furniture and baby bedding has increased tremendously and above our predicated plans set twelve months ago. Now we are stocking Lollipop Lane as well as Izziwotnot nursery furniture we are going from strength to strength.
Two nursery bedding ranges stick out in particular in terms of volume of sales over the last 18 months, namely Humphrey’s Corner and Lottie Fairy Princess from Izziwotnot. These have been are bestsellers and continue to be in high demand.
One range that is aimed at the baby boy is Izziwotnot’s Little Red Car range of baby bedding. This has proved to be exceptionally well suited and certainly gives to an exciting nursery for your little one.
Marketing and Public Relation methods have been wide and varied as well as specifically targeted, consisting of the following methods.
1. Paid advertising on baby specific websites
2. Paid search engine adverts
3. Natural search engine work
4. Public relation articles (targeted and non targeted)
5. Internet forums (General business and baby specific)
We plan to increase marketing over the coming months to increase exposure offline as well as online.
A qwirky range of children’s soft toys call Deglingos (Deglingoes) have proved successful and certainly provides for something a little different than the norm. We original stocked a few ranges and having noticed an increase in sales we extended the stock and range over the last six months.
Baby Hampers have been relatively quiet over the last 12 months and this is felt due to the range and availability. We will grow the Baby hamper product over the next 12 months due to increase focus and a new range.
The 4little1s.com website (http://www.4little1s.com) has performed well over the last 12 months, with no major outages or incidents to mention. Performance and Service has been good. Concerns were previously raised over using Fasthosts as the ISP (Internet Service Provider) however we have not experienced any issues to date and we plan to continue on with them.
Finally, we have experienced an increase in International sales with the USA, Denmark, Holland, Brazil and Singapore being some of the locations we have received orders from mainly individuals but in some cases the corporate market from the banking industries.
4little1s.com is online nursery furniture, baby bedding and baby gifts retailer found at http://www.4little1s.com
The last 18 months of trading has been a real whirlwind with us achieving all our predicated financial and expansion targets. Thanks to a good solid business plan, marketing plan and a robust set of financial templates sales and good and continue to grow.
The growth of nursery furniture and baby bedding has increased tremendously and above our predicated plans set twelve months ago. Now we are stocking Lollipop Lane as well as Izziwotnot nursery furniture we are going from strength to strength.
Two nursery bedding ranges stick out in particular in terms of volume of sales over the last 18 months, namely Humphrey’s Corner and Lottie Fairy Princess from Izziwotnot. These have been are bestsellers and continue to be in high demand.
One range that is aimed at the baby boy is Izziwotnot’s Little Red Car range of baby bedding. This has proved to be exceptionally well suited and certainly gives to an exciting nursery for your little one.
Marketing and Public Relation methods have been wide and varied as well as specifically targeted, consisting of the following methods.
1. Paid advertising on baby specific websites
2. Paid search engine adverts
3. Natural search engine work
4. Public relation articles (targeted and non targeted)
5. Internet forums (General business and baby specific)
We plan to increase marketing over the coming months to increase exposure offline as well as online.
A qwirky range of children’s soft toys call Deglingos (Deglingoes) have proved successful and certainly provides for something a little different than the norm. We original stocked a few ranges and having noticed an increase in sales we extended the stock and range over the last six months.
Baby Hampers have been relatively quiet over the last 12 months and this is felt due to the range and availability. We will grow the Baby hamper product over the next 12 months due to increase focus and a new range.
The 4little1s.com website (http://www.4little1s.com) has performed well over the last 12 months, with no major outages or incidents to mention. Performance and Service has been good. Concerns were previously raised over using Fasthosts as the ISP (Internet Service Provider) however we have not experienced any issues to date and we plan to continue on with them.
Finally, we have experienced an increase in International sales with the USA, Denmark, Holland, Brazil and Singapore being some of the locations we have received orders from mainly individuals but in some cases the corporate market from the banking industries.
4little1s.com is online nursery furniture, baby bedding and baby gifts retailer found at http://www.4little1s.com
Friday, 5 June 2009
Another baby .... ?
Want Another? Deciding Whether and When to Have Another Child
Many factors go into the decision to have more children, including the mother's age and family finances.
by Kathryn Sucich
Nicole Downing of Tewksbury, Massachusetts knows firsthand how tough being a parent can be.
Her 20-month-old daughter, Sarah, has already been treated for a number of medical conditions, including a hip problem and allergies to eggs, dairy and nuts.
Some parents might feel overwhelmed after having one child who requires so much attention. But Nicole and her husband, Michael Downing, are considering having another child in the near future.
When it comes to whether and when to have more children, there is no standard approach to making the decision. What's right for one family may be impossible for another, says Sandra Dupcak, a Framingham, MA-based clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and families. In her practice, Dupcak sees couples like the Downings who are emotionally ready to handle another child within a couple of years of their first. Other couples need to wait four or five years - or even stop having children altogether - because they just can't handle the extra pressure, especially when one child requires special care.
"It's so dependent on the parents," Dupcak says. "What's stressful for one set of parents isn't for another."
For most parents, deciding whether and when or have another child is a careful balance - a weighing of the responsibilities involved, health considerations, older children's desire to have another sibling, and often a gut feeling. One thing is for sure: it's a decision that most parents don't take lightly.
Pregnancy Considerations
Say that you are leaning toward having more than one child. There's a lot of medical research on the optimal spacing of childbirths for both mother's and baby's health. A study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that mothers should space their pregnancies 18 to 59 months apart to reduce risks of preterm birth and low-birth-weight babies.
Of course, moms have their own ideas about healthy spacing between babies. Kathy Woolfrey, 31, a mom of two, has had two easy pregnancies so far, but says she needs time to recuperate between having children. As a physical therapist, she's required to do heavy lifting and bending on the job that can be difficult both during and after pregnancy
"I need to get my body back in shape after each pregnancy to lower my risk of injuring my back from weak, overstretched abdominal muscles," says Woolfrey. "I want my body to be my own again for at least a year before getting pregnant again."
Moms are also very aware of the connection between their age and health and their baby's health. Patti Urquhart, 28, is up to date on the latest medical statistics. When she had her 14-month-old son, Cameron, she was tested for Down's syndrome.
"My chances at 26 were something like 1 in 1,100. They told me that the older you get, the chances get extremely higher," says Urquhart. She and her husband, Jason, are hoping to have another child as soon as possible.
Downing would also like to have another child soon, and says she'd like to be done having kids by age 35. Health is not her main concern - rather, she realizes she'll probably have to stay home with her kids because of the rising cost of daycare; knowing this, she says, she'd like to re-enter the workforce by age 40.
"I work in the technology field and the longer I stay away, the harder it will be to get back into the swing of things," says Downing. "I want to be a great mom who can also work outside the home."
The Cost of Another Child
Work and finances are major drivers in parents' decisions on whether and when to have another child. There's good reason: a recent report by the National Association of child care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) says that the average cost of infant daycare in Massachusetts is $13,480, which represents nearly 15 percent of an average two-parent family's income.
First-time parents often struggle with the decision on whether to work outside the home or stay at home with their newborn. However, for second- and third-time parents, the staggering cost of daycare often forces an outcome: either one of the parents stays at home, or the couple waits until the older sibling is in school before having another baby.
There's no doubt about it - a new baby is expensive. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that a two-parent family in the Northeast who makes between $43,700 and $73,500 each year can expect to pay just over $200,000 for a child during its first 17 years of life. If they make more than $73,500 a year, the cost shoots up to $286,000 for the same child. And that's even before the cost of college is factored in.
While many parents plan out their costs for a new baby, Rick Miller, founder of Sensible Financial Planning, based in Cambridge, says there are many costs that parents don't consider. For example, families may move to a bigger home to accommodate more children, as well as buy a more family-friendly car.
Woolfrey is thinking about the financial impact a third child would have on her family. "Even our Ford Explorer will not handle three car seats," she says. "That means upgrading to a bigger vehicle and spending more in gas per week."
And the Woolfreys are adding a second level to their two-bedroom ranch to make more room for their 2-year-old and 3-month-old sons, as well as the third child they'd like to have in a couple of years.
Thinking down the road, what about that cost of college? Miller says college costs are currently going up faster than inflation, and adds, "When that will end, we don't know." If costs continue to rise, he estimates, a baby born today who attends a private college or university in 2024 will be paying about $100,000 per year in tuition, room and board.
While that news is pretty sobering, Miller suggests ways to prepare for those costs, including:
a 529 savings plan, a tax-advantaged plan in which parents can sock away money for their children's educations; and alternatives to formal daycare, such as daycare offered by churches or nonprofits.
Parents might also consider finding a job that offers on-side daycare or sharing an au pair or nanny with other family members or friends.
Can You Handle Another?
Money aside, the other big issue that parents must contend with is whether they can handle the added stress and responsibility that comes with a second or subsequent child. According to Dupcak, each child has a unique personality and temperament, and one active or difficult child can impact a couple's decision on whether to have more kids. Parents themselves need to be able to work well together, to react to stress similarly.
"Raising children is extremely difficult to do well," says Dupcak. "How a couple works together, chooses to discipline and how they work out care - that's the centerpiece to whether couples decide to have more children."
Jennifer McLaughlin, 30, had her daughter when she was 22. She says the experience was so overwhelming that she never considered having more children. Now she's thinking about having another child in the next two years but is concerned that a newborn would completely change her family's life.
"I am very used to my life being the way it is now," says McLaughlin. "I'm not sure that throwing a newborn into the mix would quite work as well as it might have a few years ago."
A support system of family or friends is also important in a couple's decision to have more children, says Dupcak. She has found that couples who are isolated, either living away from family or living extremely busy lives, tend to have fewer children because they don't have a network of help available.
What's Best for the Older Kids?
A newborn impacts his parents' lives and those of his older siblings.
McLaughlin says her 8-year-old is used to being the center of attention and might not like a new baby taking some of her spotlight. But McLaughlin would also like her daughter to have a sibling so that she'll have family around when she's older.
That's a sentiment shared by a lot of parents, including Urquhart. "My sister and I are two years apart and she has been there for me every day," she says. "I would like to have Cam experience that, too."
And then there's that pure and simple joy that a new baby can bring to the whole family. Nicole Downing has faced difficulties with her daughter's medical problems and she acknowledges that her work and family life will change with another child. But when she thinks about having another baby, she says, "Who wouldn't want more children? Their sweet smell, their lovable coos and teaching and molding a fresh mind. Priceless!"
RESOURCES:
Twiced Blessed: Everything You Need To Know About Having A Second Child - Preparing Yourself, Your Marriage, And Your Firstborn For A New Family Of Four, by Joan Leonard (St. Martin's Press, 2000). An unvarnished look at the challenges associated with expanding the family, including "tips from the trenches."
From one Child to two by Judy Dunn (Ballantine, 1995). Preparing the household for changes that come with a second child, particularly if they are several years apart.
Kathryn Sucich is a freelance writer and mother from Framingham, Massachusetts.
First published in The Boston Parents Paper, a Dominion Parenting Media publication
4little1s.com is an online nursery furniture and baby bedding retailer located at www.4little1s.com
Ranges include Humphrey's Corner, Little Red Car, Lottie Fairy Princess amongst other....pay us a visit day or night, you are most welcome
Many factors go into the decision to have more children, including the mother's age and family finances.
by Kathryn Sucich
Nicole Downing of Tewksbury, Massachusetts knows firsthand how tough being a parent can be.
Her 20-month-old daughter, Sarah, has already been treated for a number of medical conditions, including a hip problem and allergies to eggs, dairy and nuts.
Some parents might feel overwhelmed after having one child who requires so much attention. But Nicole and her husband, Michael Downing, are considering having another child in the near future.
When it comes to whether and when to have more children, there is no standard approach to making the decision. What's right for one family may be impossible for another, says Sandra Dupcak, a Framingham, MA-based clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and families. In her practice, Dupcak sees couples like the Downings who are emotionally ready to handle another child within a couple of years of their first. Other couples need to wait four or five years - or even stop having children altogether - because they just can't handle the extra pressure, especially when one child requires special care.
"It's so dependent on the parents," Dupcak says. "What's stressful for one set of parents isn't for another."
For most parents, deciding whether and when or have another child is a careful balance - a weighing of the responsibilities involved, health considerations, older children's desire to have another sibling, and often a gut feeling. One thing is for sure: it's a decision that most parents don't take lightly.
Pregnancy Considerations
Say that you are leaning toward having more than one child. There's a lot of medical research on the optimal spacing of childbirths for both mother's and baby's health. A study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that mothers should space their pregnancies 18 to 59 months apart to reduce risks of preterm birth and low-birth-weight babies.
Of course, moms have their own ideas about healthy spacing between babies. Kathy Woolfrey, 31, a mom of two, has had two easy pregnancies so far, but says she needs time to recuperate between having children. As a physical therapist, she's required to do heavy lifting and bending on the job that can be difficult both during and after pregnancy
"I need to get my body back in shape after each pregnancy to lower my risk of injuring my back from weak, overstretched abdominal muscles," says Woolfrey. "I want my body to be my own again for at least a year before getting pregnant again."
Moms are also very aware of the connection between their age and health and their baby's health. Patti Urquhart, 28, is up to date on the latest medical statistics. When she had her 14-month-old son, Cameron, she was tested for Down's syndrome.
"My chances at 26 were something like 1 in 1,100. They told me that the older you get, the chances get extremely higher," says Urquhart. She and her husband, Jason, are hoping to have another child as soon as possible.
Downing would also like to have another child soon, and says she'd like to be done having kids by age 35. Health is not her main concern - rather, she realizes she'll probably have to stay home with her kids because of the rising cost of daycare; knowing this, she says, she'd like to re-enter the workforce by age 40.
"I work in the technology field and the longer I stay away, the harder it will be to get back into the swing of things," says Downing. "I want to be a great mom who can also work outside the home."
The Cost of Another Child
Work and finances are major drivers in parents' decisions on whether and when to have another child. There's good reason: a recent report by the National Association of child care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) says that the average cost of infant daycare in Massachusetts is $13,480, which represents nearly 15 percent of an average two-parent family's income.
First-time parents often struggle with the decision on whether to work outside the home or stay at home with their newborn. However, for second- and third-time parents, the staggering cost of daycare often forces an outcome: either one of the parents stays at home, or the couple waits until the older sibling is in school before having another baby.
There's no doubt about it - a new baby is expensive. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that a two-parent family in the Northeast who makes between $43,700 and $73,500 each year can expect to pay just over $200,000 for a child during its first 17 years of life. If they make more than $73,500 a year, the cost shoots up to $286,000 for the same child. And that's even before the cost of college is factored in.
While many parents plan out their costs for a new baby, Rick Miller, founder of Sensible Financial Planning, based in Cambridge, says there are many costs that parents don't consider. For example, families may move to a bigger home to accommodate more children, as well as buy a more family-friendly car.
Woolfrey is thinking about the financial impact a third child would have on her family. "Even our Ford Explorer will not handle three car seats," she says. "That means upgrading to a bigger vehicle and spending more in gas per week."
And the Woolfreys are adding a second level to their two-bedroom ranch to make more room for their 2-year-old and 3-month-old sons, as well as the third child they'd like to have in a couple of years.
Thinking down the road, what about that cost of college? Miller says college costs are currently going up faster than inflation, and adds, "When that will end, we don't know." If costs continue to rise, he estimates, a baby born today who attends a private college or university in 2024 will be paying about $100,000 per year in tuition, room and board.
While that news is pretty sobering, Miller suggests ways to prepare for those costs, including:
a 529 savings plan, a tax-advantaged plan in which parents can sock away money for their children's educations; and alternatives to formal daycare, such as daycare offered by churches or nonprofits.
Parents might also consider finding a job that offers on-side daycare or sharing an au pair or nanny with other family members or friends.
Can You Handle Another?
Money aside, the other big issue that parents must contend with is whether they can handle the added stress and responsibility that comes with a second or subsequent child. According to Dupcak, each child has a unique personality and temperament, and one active or difficult child can impact a couple's decision on whether to have more kids. Parents themselves need to be able to work well together, to react to stress similarly.
"Raising children is extremely difficult to do well," says Dupcak. "How a couple works together, chooses to discipline and how they work out care - that's the centerpiece to whether couples decide to have more children."
Jennifer McLaughlin, 30, had her daughter when she was 22. She says the experience was so overwhelming that she never considered having more children. Now she's thinking about having another child in the next two years but is concerned that a newborn would completely change her family's life.
"I am very used to my life being the way it is now," says McLaughlin. "I'm not sure that throwing a newborn into the mix would quite work as well as it might have a few years ago."
A support system of family or friends is also important in a couple's decision to have more children, says Dupcak. She has found that couples who are isolated, either living away from family or living extremely busy lives, tend to have fewer children because they don't have a network of help available.
What's Best for the Older Kids?
A newborn impacts his parents' lives and those of his older siblings.
McLaughlin says her 8-year-old is used to being the center of attention and might not like a new baby taking some of her spotlight. But McLaughlin would also like her daughter to have a sibling so that she'll have family around when she's older.
That's a sentiment shared by a lot of parents, including Urquhart. "My sister and I are two years apart and she has been there for me every day," she says. "I would like to have Cam experience that, too."
And then there's that pure and simple joy that a new baby can bring to the whole family. Nicole Downing has faced difficulties with her daughter's medical problems and she acknowledges that her work and family life will change with another child. But when she thinks about having another baby, she says, "Who wouldn't want more children? Their sweet smell, their lovable coos and teaching and molding a fresh mind. Priceless!"
RESOURCES:
Twiced Blessed: Everything You Need To Know About Having A Second Child - Preparing Yourself, Your Marriage, And Your Firstborn For A New Family Of Four, by Joan Leonard (St. Martin's Press, 2000). An unvarnished look at the challenges associated with expanding the family, including "tips from the trenches."
From one Child to two by Judy Dunn (Ballantine, 1995). Preparing the household for changes that come with a second child, particularly if they are several years apart.
Kathryn Sucich is a freelance writer and mother from Framingham, Massachusetts.
First published in The Boston Parents Paper, a Dominion Parenting Media publication
4little1s.com is an online nursery furniture and baby bedding retailer located at www.4little1s.com
Ranges include Humphrey's Corner, Little Red Car, Lottie Fairy Princess amongst other....pay us a visit day or night, you are most welcome
Baby playing
Play with Your Baby: How Fun Can Help Your Little One Thrive
Interacting with your child is vitally important. Researchers estimate that 50 percent of a human's brain development occurs in the first six months of life; 70 percent is complete by the end of the first year.
By Wendy S. Masi, Ph.D., and Roni Cohen Leiderman, Ph.D.
When you first bring a new baby home, your thoughts are usually full of the practical matters: how to keep your baby clean, warm, and well-fed; where to store the tiny diapers and clothes; how the stroller actually work; and getting some sleep.
Once the necessities are taken care of, there's something further that even the littlest baby needs in order to thrive: warm, playful interactions with the caretakers around him. Dozens of studies in recent years have shown that a child's sense of self-esteem and his ability to form close emotional ties with others greatly depends upon the quality of his bond with his parents. This bond can be enhanced by close, loving play. Indeed, for babies who cannot yet go to school or read a book, play is the primary way they learn.
The Incredible First Year
During the first 12 months, babies undergo a profound mental, physical, and social awakening. They learn to recognize their families, the cabinet with the crackers, and the playground with the big slide. They learn to support their heads, use their hands, roll over, sit, crawl, stand, and - in some cases - walk. And long before they are ready to speak, they understand a range of human communication, from body language (the quick head shake that discourages further food throwing) to some of the words you say.
Interacting with your child is vitally important throughout his life, of course. But in the first year play can be especially important and rewarding. Researchers estimate that 50 percent of a human's brain development occurs in the first six months of life; 70 percent is complete by the end of the first year. While much of this development has to do with genetic heritage, a good portion of a child's later intellectual, emotional, and physical life depends upon the kinds and amount of stimulation she receives in her earliest years.
All Kinds of Play
Play, even "stimulating" play, isn't really about force-feeding experiences, but is rather about understanding your baby's temperament: her likes and dislikes and her tolerance for and ability to adapt to stimulation. Some babies love to be rocked back and forth, while others strongly object. Some like to be chased; others are uncomfortable with such rowdiness. Respond to your baby's cues and follow her lead.
Babies have distinct cycles of rest and activity, attention and inattention. The best time for active play - swatting at toys, rolling balls, or knocking over blocks -is when your baby is receptive and alert. Opt for more passive play - listening to songs or snuggling up with a book - when he is subdued. Both types are important. It's the timing that counts.
Baby Play
Here are a few activities to get you on the road to great play with your baby:
Swaying, Swaying - She loves to hear your voice, she loves to feel your touch, and she loves to be rocked rhythmically from side to side. You can combine all three of these soothing elements by using your lap as a cradle and your voice as a lullaby. Sit in a chair with your baby lying on your thighs, her feet pointing toward your stomach. Cradle her head with your hands and gently sway yourself from side to side as you talk or sing to her.
The sensory stimulation provided by this activity - the sound of your voice, the feel of your hands, and the sight of your face - can reassure and soothe your baby. This activity may even put her to sleep. And as she approaches three months, smile and words may inspire her to coo and grin socially in return.
Airplane Baby - You may already have discovered that a classic "airplane" or "football" hold calms your baby when she's gassy, overwhelmed, or just tired. Combining a swinging or swaying motion and a rhythmic song with that firm hold around her belly can be even more calming. Just support your baby, tummy down, by holding her under her chest and belly with one or both of your arms. (But always be sure to support a newborn's head.) Then swing her gently to and fro while singing a song.
Parents around the world have spent many long hours comforting colicky babies by swinging them gently back and forth in an "airplane" hold. The steady pressure along the baby's tummy provides soothing warmth and tactile input. And with every passing week she'll practice lifting her head, neck, and shoulders so that she can look around and widen her baby's-eye view.
Eyes on Track - Even as newborns, babies display interest in sights and sounds. Try moving a brightly colored squeaking toy back and forth slowly in front of your baby's eyes. When she's focused on the toy, move it to the left and to the right. Don't go too fast or far afield, though. If she loses sight of the toy, she'll figure it simply doesn't exist, and she'll lose interest in the game altogether.
What's that sound? What's that movement? As your baby moves her head from side to side, she learns to locate the source of noises and keep track of an object's whereabouts. At around three months, she'll swipe at the toy, and at about four months, she'll grab at it.
Noisemakers - Whether the sound is familiar, like that of a musical mobile, or unfamiliar, like a new voice, noises intrigue even the very youngest babies. Create a primitive symphony of sound by stringing a number of noise-making objects - jar lids, lightweight rattles, or plastic and wooden spoons - on a rope or ribbon. Dangle and shake the noisemaker about twelve inches in front of your baby. Or string it across the crib and let him gaze up at it as you shake the rope or jiggle the objects for him, just don't leave him alone with this kind of toy.
Hearing the various sounds from the dangling objects will sharpen your baby's auditory awareness and his visual discrimination skills. Seeing the objects will help him focus. And in a few months, when your baby is able to swipe at objects, this activity can encourage him to develop his gross motor skills.
Babycycle - When he's first born, your baby has no idea that his body is actually separate from yours. But his expanding physical abilities will give rise to an increased interest in his own body parts that will last him well into toddlerhood. They also let him enjoy more physical, interactive games. In this simple exercise game, you very gently and very slowly move his legs in a bicycling motion, all the while talking and smiling at him to encourage him to wiggle his legs without your help. Before you know it he'll be grabbing his own little feet - and eventually pedaling all by himself!
By moving his legs for him, you let your baby feel his little legs and feet moving in a new way - each side of the body working in reciprocal movement. You'll also mimic an action he'll be using later on as he learns to crawl.
4little1s.com is an online baby bedding and nursery furniture retailer and can be found at www.4little1s.com
Interacting with your child is vitally important. Researchers estimate that 50 percent of a human's brain development occurs in the first six months of life; 70 percent is complete by the end of the first year.
By Wendy S. Masi, Ph.D., and Roni Cohen Leiderman, Ph.D.
When you first bring a new baby home, your thoughts are usually full of the practical matters: how to keep your baby clean, warm, and well-fed; where to store the tiny diapers and clothes; how the stroller actually work; and getting some sleep.
Once the necessities are taken care of, there's something further that even the littlest baby needs in order to thrive: warm, playful interactions with the caretakers around him. Dozens of studies in recent years have shown that a child's sense of self-esteem and his ability to form close emotional ties with others greatly depends upon the quality of his bond with his parents. This bond can be enhanced by close, loving play. Indeed, for babies who cannot yet go to school or read a book, play is the primary way they learn.
The Incredible First Year
During the first 12 months, babies undergo a profound mental, physical, and social awakening. They learn to recognize their families, the cabinet with the crackers, and the playground with the big slide. They learn to support their heads, use their hands, roll over, sit, crawl, stand, and - in some cases - walk. And long before they are ready to speak, they understand a range of human communication, from body language (the quick head shake that discourages further food throwing) to some of the words you say.
Interacting with your child is vitally important throughout his life, of course. But in the first year play can be especially important and rewarding. Researchers estimate that 50 percent of a human's brain development occurs in the first six months of life; 70 percent is complete by the end of the first year. While much of this development has to do with genetic heritage, a good portion of a child's later intellectual, emotional, and physical life depends upon the kinds and amount of stimulation she receives in her earliest years.
All Kinds of Play
Play, even "stimulating" play, isn't really about force-feeding experiences, but is rather about understanding your baby's temperament: her likes and dislikes and her tolerance for and ability to adapt to stimulation. Some babies love to be rocked back and forth, while others strongly object. Some like to be chased; others are uncomfortable with such rowdiness. Respond to your baby's cues and follow her lead.
Babies have distinct cycles of rest and activity, attention and inattention. The best time for active play - swatting at toys, rolling balls, or knocking over blocks -is when your baby is receptive and alert. Opt for more passive play - listening to songs or snuggling up with a book - when he is subdued. Both types are important. It's the timing that counts.
Baby Play
Here are a few activities to get you on the road to great play with your baby:
Swaying, Swaying - She loves to hear your voice, she loves to feel your touch, and she loves to be rocked rhythmically from side to side. You can combine all three of these soothing elements by using your lap as a cradle and your voice as a lullaby. Sit in a chair with your baby lying on your thighs, her feet pointing toward your stomach. Cradle her head with your hands and gently sway yourself from side to side as you talk or sing to her.
The sensory stimulation provided by this activity - the sound of your voice, the feel of your hands, and the sight of your face - can reassure and soothe your baby. This activity may even put her to sleep. And as she approaches three months, smile and words may inspire her to coo and grin socially in return.
Airplane Baby - You may already have discovered that a classic "airplane" or "football" hold calms your baby when she's gassy, overwhelmed, or just tired. Combining a swinging or swaying motion and a rhythmic song with that firm hold around her belly can be even more calming. Just support your baby, tummy down, by holding her under her chest and belly with one or both of your arms. (But always be sure to support a newborn's head.) Then swing her gently to and fro while singing a song.
Parents around the world have spent many long hours comforting colicky babies by swinging them gently back and forth in an "airplane" hold. The steady pressure along the baby's tummy provides soothing warmth and tactile input. And with every passing week she'll practice lifting her head, neck, and shoulders so that she can look around and widen her baby's-eye view.
Eyes on Track - Even as newborns, babies display interest in sights and sounds. Try moving a brightly colored squeaking toy back and forth slowly in front of your baby's eyes. When she's focused on the toy, move it to the left and to the right. Don't go too fast or far afield, though. If she loses sight of the toy, she'll figure it simply doesn't exist, and she'll lose interest in the game altogether.
What's that sound? What's that movement? As your baby moves her head from side to side, she learns to locate the source of noises and keep track of an object's whereabouts. At around three months, she'll swipe at the toy, and at about four months, she'll grab at it.
Noisemakers - Whether the sound is familiar, like that of a musical mobile, or unfamiliar, like a new voice, noises intrigue even the very youngest babies. Create a primitive symphony of sound by stringing a number of noise-making objects - jar lids, lightweight rattles, or plastic and wooden spoons - on a rope or ribbon. Dangle and shake the noisemaker about twelve inches in front of your baby. Or string it across the crib and let him gaze up at it as you shake the rope or jiggle the objects for him, just don't leave him alone with this kind of toy.
Hearing the various sounds from the dangling objects will sharpen your baby's auditory awareness and his visual discrimination skills. Seeing the objects will help him focus. And in a few months, when your baby is able to swipe at objects, this activity can encourage him to develop his gross motor skills.
Babycycle - When he's first born, your baby has no idea that his body is actually separate from yours. But his expanding physical abilities will give rise to an increased interest in his own body parts that will last him well into toddlerhood. They also let him enjoy more physical, interactive games. In this simple exercise game, you very gently and very slowly move his legs in a bicycling motion, all the while talking and smiling at him to encourage him to wiggle his legs without your help. Before you know it he'll be grabbing his own little feet - and eventually pedaling all by himself!
By moving his legs for him, you let your baby feel his little legs and feet moving in a new way - each side of the body working in reciprocal movement. You'll also mimic an action he'll be using later on as he learns to crawl.
4little1s.com is an online baby bedding and nursery furniture retailer and can be found at www.4little1s.com
Baby Sleep
Baby Bedding and Baby sleep ?
Does your baby have his days and nights mixed up? If so, this is quite common in infants who are content to sleep anytime they want despite their parents’ need for sleep during the night.
When babies are brand new they have no concept of time or a schedule and will sleep when they are tired and wake up when they are hungry. It’s difficult in the first few weeks when baby sleeps more during the day than at night, but in time this works out and baby will get on a schedule.
Of course, if your baby is truly sleeping more during the day than at night you need to reverse his schedule by creating a “day” mood and a “night” mood. The day mood should signal activity and fun while the night mood should be calm, quiet, and more suitable for sleeping. For example, during the day you may want to open the curtains and turn all of the lights on to signal it is time to be awake. You may want to turn on some music and engage your baby so they know this is the time to be awake. When night rolls around you should make the house quiet, dark, and don’t excite baby at this time.
Another tip to help your baby get his days and nights on track is to wake him up if he sleeps too long during the day. By stimulating your baby during the day he will save his longest stretch of sleep for night, which means both mom and dad can get some much needed rest, too.
Once you have baby back on a proper schedule begin scheduling mealtimes at the same time each day. Doing this will help your baby get on a good schedule of eating and sleeping.
By the time your baby is three months old his sleeping and eating pattern should be fairly predictable and parents should be able to get enough sleep, too. Keep baby alert with music, reading, and play during the day and always settle down quietly at night. This will help keep baby on the schedule that works best for the family. Keep in mind, though, if baby gets sick the schedule will go out the window!
4little1s.com is an online nursery furniture and baby bedding retailer located at www.4little1s.com
Our current bestseller at the moment is the Izziwotnot Humphrey's Corner range...have you seen it ?
Does your baby have his days and nights mixed up? If so, this is quite common in infants who are content to sleep anytime they want despite their parents’ need for sleep during the night.
When babies are brand new they have no concept of time or a schedule and will sleep when they are tired and wake up when they are hungry. It’s difficult in the first few weeks when baby sleeps more during the day than at night, but in time this works out and baby will get on a schedule.
Of course, if your baby is truly sleeping more during the day than at night you need to reverse his schedule by creating a “day” mood and a “night” mood. The day mood should signal activity and fun while the night mood should be calm, quiet, and more suitable for sleeping. For example, during the day you may want to open the curtains and turn all of the lights on to signal it is time to be awake. You may want to turn on some music and engage your baby so they know this is the time to be awake. When night rolls around you should make the house quiet, dark, and don’t excite baby at this time.
Another tip to help your baby get his days and nights on track is to wake him up if he sleeps too long during the day. By stimulating your baby during the day he will save his longest stretch of sleep for night, which means both mom and dad can get some much needed rest, too.
Once you have baby back on a proper schedule begin scheduling mealtimes at the same time each day. Doing this will help your baby get on a good schedule of eating and sleeping.
By the time your baby is three months old his sleeping and eating pattern should be fairly predictable and parents should be able to get enough sleep, too. Keep baby alert with music, reading, and play during the day and always settle down quietly at night. This will help keep baby on the schedule that works best for the family. Keep in mind, though, if baby gets sick the schedule will go out the window!
4little1s.com is an online nursery furniture and baby bedding retailer located at www.4little1s.com
Our current bestseller at the moment is the Izziwotnot Humphrey's Corner range...have you seen it ?
Little Red Car - Izziwotnot
Little Red Car baby bedding - Izziwonot baby bedding
Favorite Animals - What baby boy wouldn't love a room focusing on Cars and his friends ? Whether it's a dog or cat, Car, bird or snake, using this theme will make your son (and his pet or toy car) feel particularly at home. Be sure to put up lots of pictures with your son and his best friend around the room and make sure you have stuffed animals scattered everywhere.
See the Humphrey's Little Red Car baby bedding range at 4little1s.com
www.4little1s.com
Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding at 4little1s.com
Favorite Animals - What baby boy wouldn't love a room focusing on Cars and his friends ? Whether it's a dog or cat, Car, bird or snake, using this theme will make your son (and his pet or toy car) feel particularly at home. Be sure to put up lots of pictures with your son and his best friend around the room and make sure you have stuffed animals scattered everywhere.
See the Humphrey's Little Red Car baby bedding range at 4little1s.com
www.4little1s.com
Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding Baby Bedding at 4little1s.com
Little Boys Bedrooms
Little Red Car - Izziwonot baby bedding
A decorating theme is a great way to begin decorating a room for a child. If you're like most parents, you've probably spent lots of time thinking about decorating your new child's room even before he joined your family. While bunnies are cute and teddy bears are darling, you might want something different for the bedroom or playroom.
There are lots of great themes for boys' rooms. A special theme will provide both the focus and the inspiration for a special one-of-a-kind room and can be adapted as your child grows. Time to get started
See the Izziwotnot Little Red Car baby bedding range at 4little1s.com today
A decorating theme is a great way to begin decorating a room for a child. If you're like most parents, you've probably spent lots of time thinking about decorating your new child's room even before he joined your family. While bunnies are cute and teddy bears are darling, you might want something different for the bedroom or playroom.
There are lots of great themes for boys' rooms. A special theme will provide both the focus and the inspiration for a special one-of-a-kind room and can be adapted as your child grows. Time to get started
See the Izziwotnot Little Red Car baby bedding range at 4little1s.com today
Baby Bedding for little ones
BABY BEDDING
It has been estimated that a new mother will enter her baby's nursery 3000 times in the first year of the baby's life so make sure you decorate it to make the room a special experience every time!
With online baby bedding shopping you will be able to survey countless fashions and designs for your baby boy or baby girl's crib from the comfort of your own chair. So sit back and relax because shopping for baby bedding should be even easier than changing diapers (trust me, I know!).
Some parents prefer to build their nursery's in newer, funkier cute designer baby bedding while others are more likely to choose classic bassinet or crib bedding. Regardless, remember the nursery is about creating a great environment for the baby and for you!
Baby Safety...
A very important consideration when shopping for your infants bedding is the baby's safety. 'Soft bedding' such as soft quilts, comforters, pillows and sheepskins can cause complications for the baby's breathing. So be sure to tuck in all blankets and sheets in the crib bedding while removing bulky pillows.
If your baby sleeps well you sleep well
4little1s.com is an online baby bedding and nursery furniture retailer
It has been estimated that a new mother will enter her baby's nursery 3000 times in the first year of the baby's life so make sure you decorate it to make the room a special experience every time!
With online baby bedding shopping you will be able to survey countless fashions and designs for your baby boy or baby girl's crib from the comfort of your own chair. So sit back and relax because shopping for baby bedding should be even easier than changing diapers (trust me, I know!).
Some parents prefer to build their nursery's in newer, funkier cute designer baby bedding while others are more likely to choose classic bassinet or crib bedding. Regardless, remember the nursery is about creating a great environment for the baby and for you!
Baby Safety...
A very important consideration when shopping for your infants bedding is the baby's safety. 'Soft bedding' such as soft quilts, comforters, pillows and sheepskins can cause complications for the baby's breathing. So be sure to tuck in all blankets and sheets in the crib bedding while removing bulky pillows.
If your baby sleeps well you sleep well
4little1s.com is an online baby bedding and nursery furniture retailer
Baby Bedding - 4little1s.com
BABY BEDDING FROM 4LITTLE1S.COM
Baby bedding is one of the most important items when decorating your baby's nursery. By finding the baby beddings first it may simplify the process of decorating the rest of the baby's nursery.
The crib bedding and decorations in the nursery will help communicate your unique ideas and themes in your baby's very first bedroom. Although you will find many different styles and themes for the baby's crib bedding remember there is just the right nursery bedding for you.
Looking for baby bedding at 4little1s.com is easy as 1, 2, 3....
Baby bedding is one of the most important items when decorating your baby's nursery. By finding the baby beddings first it may simplify the process of decorating the rest of the baby's nursery.
The crib bedding and decorations in the nursery will help communicate your unique ideas and themes in your baby's very first bedroom. Although you will find many different styles and themes for the baby's crib bedding remember there is just the right nursery bedding for you.
Looking for baby bedding at 4little1s.com is easy as 1, 2, 3....
Monday, 1 June 2009
Baby bedding UK
BABY BEDDING AT 4LITTLE1S.COM
4little1s.com the online baby bedding and nursery furniture retailer are proud to announce the launch of their new look website with some new and fantastic baby bedding ranges for your little one or ones....
We have some low low bedding prices and a super range from Izziwotnot, names such as:
LOTTIE FAIRY PRINCESS
MARTHA MOUSE
LITTLE RED CAR
HIDE AWAY BAY
ABC SAFARI
BABY PILOT
CHERRY BLOSSOM
.....are all there on our easy to use website which allows you to browse by range and unlike some other websites, we have the whole range available....if you don't see it on the online store, send us an email and we will get you price.
We understand babies and having first hand experience we know how exciting it is fitting out the nursery and wanting it to be 'just right'
If you are not sure what you need feel free to call or email us and we will be more than happy to talk you through any questions you may have.
Looking for baby bedding for your little one ? Look no further than 4little1s.com
Izziwotnot baby bedding Izziwotnot baby bedding Izziwotnot baby bedding Izziwotnot baby Izziwotnot baby bedding Izziwotnot baby bedding
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