Summer Essentials for Babies

Is your baby as ready for summer as you are? Before you take the newest member of your family outside for some summertime fun, make sure you are prepared to keep your child protected from the sun and heat. Experts recommend that you keep babies under 6 months old away from sun exposure. For older babies, here are summer baby must haves to pack in your tote for a day out.

Summer Essentials for Babies

  • Lightweight clothing: You want to keep your baby cool, so you might think less is more when it comes to clothing. Not so true. Choose light-colored, lightweight fabrics to protect their skin, including arms and legs, and keep them cool, too. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to invest in clothes with built-in sun-protection.
  • Summer Hat with Coverage: Don’t leave home without a dependable hat (or even two!). Babies in hats are always adorable, but choose a hat for function, not just fashion. Summer hats are essential and those with big brims or flaps that cover ears and the back of the neck are especially good. Verywell has compiled a list of the best summer hats for babies.
  • Sunglasses: If you can get your baby to keep sunglasses on, choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays (check the label). Baby Bandz sunglasses have a velcro fastener for easy on and off. If you can’t keep glasses on your little one, a visor or hat with a large brim should help shield his eyes.
  • Swim Diapers: If you’ll be hitting the pool, you’ll need swim diapers. Save money and the planet by choosing reusable swim diapers. Reusable swim diapers made from a stretchy swimsuit fabric are easy to change. Some even come with matching rash guards.
  • Sun shade with UV Protection: Don’t rely solely on your stroller’s canopy to shade your baby. He’ll, undoubtedly, end up with burnt toes! Amp up the protection by attaching a pop-up stroller shade with built-in UV protection to shelter your baby’s entire body.sun shade
  • Sunscreen: You can decide between a physical sunscreen (often called sunblock, which does not get absorbed into the skin) and a chemical sunscreen. There’s a debate brewing about whether chemical sunscreens are absorbed and potentially dangerous to babies. While these is no proof that the chemicals are toxic, you can play it safe by choosing sunscreens that are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin, forming a physical barrier against the sun. Sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide start protecting as soon as you put them on, while the chemical-based products need to be applied 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Lucie’s List provides a list of the best sunscreens for babies. Whichever you are using, be sure to reapply often. BabyCenter has a nice overview article on how to choose sunscreen for your baby.
  • Swim Float: To give your arms a rest in the swimming pool, consider a swim float that the baby can safely sit in and enjoy the water. Plus it provides extra sun coverage!
  • Hydration: Be especially mindful of keeping babies hydrated when it’s warm outside. The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t advise giving water to babies younger than 6 months. If your child hasn’t yet reached the 6-month mark, nurse or bottle-feed more often when they are likely to be thirsty. For older babies, be sure to offer water in a bottle or sippy cup throughout the day.
  • Lightweight blanket: A lightweight blanket is indispensable. Use it as an extra sun shade, a cover when the A/C’s a bit too chilly, a changing pad, a nursing shield and for an impromptu picnic.

Find your summer babysitter with UrbanSitter. Search for CPR-trained babysitters.

7 Holiday Sleep Tips For Your Babies & Toddlers

Baby in bed

The holidays are fast approaching, and if you’re like most people out there, your calendar is already filling up with holiday parties and visits with friends and relatives. But while these celebrations can be tons of fun, they can spell major sleep drama for babies and toddlers. Most little ones thrive on consistency, after all, and holiday celebrating can throw a serious wrench into your normally-predictable schedule.

So how can you enjoy the holiday season while also preserving precious sleep?

1. Use temperament as a guide. If your child is super-adaptable, then you may have nothing to worry about. Even if bedtime and naps are all over the place for a week or two, your kiddo may sleep just fine when you put her down. If you have a less-than-adaptable child on your hands, however, respect that, and don’t try to force her to adapt to a hundred different schedule disruptions. This means you’ll have to adapt to her needs.

2. Pick and choose your activities. Remember, not every holiday invitation requires that you RSVP yes! While you may have to take part in your in-law’s holiday dinner, do you really need to attend your co-worker’s girlfriend’s cousin’s cookie swap? It’s fine to agree to attend a few activities that will mess with bedtime or naps, but do so carefully, recognizing that saying yes to the event may mean sleep drama later.

3. Make the most of your “down” days. Use your quiet days at home to reinforce your child’s sleep schedule, and to make up for lost sleep. If you just spent all day yesterday towing your kid along on a holiday shopping spree, be sure that today, naps all happen at their usual times, and that you allow for more sleep than usual.

4. Keep late bedtimes to a minimum. A few late nights are fine for most children, but avoid an overabundance. They tend to result in overtiredness, which in turn means early-waking and nap issues for most babies and toddlers.

5. Prioritize the first morning nap. The downside of many of your holiday activities may be missed or shortened naps, and that’s okay—as long as you plan well. If you know your baby or toddler will have to skip his afternoon nap, be sure to prioritize the morning nap, as that nap tends to be more restorative, anyway. For that matter, avoid activities that will force your child to miss the morning nap; you’ll both be happier in the long- and short run.

6. Watch for the dreaded O! Most holiday gatherings tend to be on the noisy and crowded side. Be aware that while you may be able to cope well with the noisy crowds, your child may become quickly overstimulated. This happens particularly with sensitive and perceptive babies and toddlers , turning them cranky. This can make sleep even more challenging, as a cranky child is less likely to relax and fall asleep. If you sense your child is becoming overstimulated, take her into a quiet space and involve in a soothing activity you know she enjoys.

7. Plan for an adjustment period once the holidays are over. We all need this, actually, not just babies and toddlers! After a few weeks of rich food, busy activities, late nights, and out-of-the-ordinary schedules, everyone needs a few days to get back to normal. Plan a few at-home days during which you can get your child back to her usual eating and sleeping schedule. These days will no doubt feel “off” as you work toward resuming normalcy. But in the end, it’ll make getting back on track much easier.

By Nicole Johnson, The Baby Sleep Site®

Photograph by Giu Vicente, via Unsplash

What are my daycare options?

day care options

Finding the right daycare for your child is a big decision, and with so many childcare options available, it can feel overwhelming. Each type of care offers unique benefits, so it’s essential to understand what might best suit your family’s needs. In this guide, we’ll walk through various daycare options, factors to consider, and resources to help you make an informed choice.

Types of Daycare Options for Children by Age

There are numerous daycare options to fit different family needs, from infant care options to after-school care. Here are some common types of care:

1. Child Care Centers

Childcare centers are often larger, structured environments with group activities, scheduled routines, and staff trained to support children by age. Typically, these centers provide quality child care and are licensed to ensure safety and developmental support.

  • Key Benefits: Licensed and regulated, with a structured environment and various learning opportunities.
  • Ideal For: Families looking for an engaging, social setting for their child, especially beneficial for children over age 2 but often including specialized infant care options.

2. Family Child Care Homes

Family childcare providers offer daycare in a smaller, home-based setting, creating a cozier, more intimate environment. This type of care tends to be more flexible and personalized, which can be ideal for infants and toddlers. See our post on Day Care Centers or In-Home Family Day Care for a deeper comparison.

  • Key Benefits: Smaller group sizes, a home-like atmosphere, and flexible hours.
  • Ideal For: Infants and toddlers who may benefit from consistent, nurturing care in a familiar, home-based setting.

3. Nursery Schools & Preschool Programs

Nursery schools and preschool programs focus on early childhood education, promoting social, emotional, and cognitive skills. These childcare programs prepare young children for school through creative, play-based learning in a group setting.

  • Key Benefits: Emphasis on learning and socialization, fostering school readiness.
  • Ideal For: Pre-kindergarten children ready for a structured learning experience.

Want to understand the differences between preschool and daycare? Our guide, Is Preschool the Same as Daycare? explores what makes these programs unique.

4. School-Age Care and Before/After School Programs

Before- and after-school programs care for school-aged children outside of regular school hours, often in partnership with public schools or community centers.

  • Key Benefits: A safe, supervised space for school-aged kids to complete homework, participate in activities, and interact with peers.
  • Ideal For: Working families needing child care options outside school hours.

Key Considerations When Choosing Daycare

When evaluating daycare options, keep these key factors in mind:

  • Quality of Care: Every childcare option differs in structure, supervision, and engagement level. Look for licensed child care that prioritizes activities that support child development and fosters a nurturing environment.
  • Safety Standards: Ensure that any childcare provider follows strict safety protocols, from background checks to facility cleanliness and emergency preparedness.
  • Caregiver-to-Child Ratio: Particularly important for infants and toddlers, a lower caregiver-to-child ratio allows for more personalized attention.
  • Location & Convenience: Choose a location that aligns with your schedule, as convenience can be a game-changer for busy families.

Choosing Between a Nanny and Daycare for Infants

When considering daycare options for infants, many parents weigh the benefits of hiring a nanny versus enrolling in a daycare. Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Personalized Attention vs. Socialization: A nanny provides one-on-one care tailored to your baby’s unique needs, while a daycare center offers opportunities for early socialization and structured activities.
  • Safety and Licensing: Daycare centers must meet state-mandated safety standards, whereas choosing a nanny with the right credentials and experience can provide peace of mind in a home setting.

For a complete breakdown where we explore the pros and cons of these infant care options, check out Nanny vs. Daycare for Infants.

Planning for Last-Minute Child Care Needs

Even with a well-planned schedule, unexpected situations can arise. It’s helpful to have backup childcare options, like flexible daycare centers or childcare services that offer last-minute care in your home.

  • Flexible Child Care Centers: Some centers provide drop-in options, though availability may vary.
  • Same-Day Emergency Babysitters: UrbanSitter connects you with reliable babysitters that come to your house, making it easier to find trusted last-minute child care services when you need them most.

For more advice on finding a reliable solution in a hurry, read Tips for Finding Last-Minute Child Care.

infant care options

Choosing the Best Daycare Option for Your Family

Finding the right daycare option involves balancing what works best for your family’s needs, budget, and values. Each choice, from child care centers to family-based care and nanny services, has unique benefits and drawbacks. Consider what aligns with your priorities—a structured environment, personalized attention, or socialization opportunities. Finding a safe, nurturing option where your child will thrive is key.

Ready to find your family's perfect match?

Start your search today with UrbanSitter
Learn more

Nanny vs. Daycare for Infants

Nanny vs daycare infant

Choosing child care for your little one is a big decision, and if you’re torn between a nanny vs. daycare for your infant, you’re not alone. Both options offer unique benefits, but which fits your family best? In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each choice, from costs and flexibility to socialization and one-on-one attention. Whether you’re looking for personalized care or a structured environment, we’ll help you make the best choice for your baby’s needs.

Cost and Expenses

  • Nanny: When comparing nanny cost vs daycare, hiring an infant nanny often involves higher expenses than a daycare facility. This is especially true when you factor in hourly rates, taxes, and potentially paying a nanny agency finders fee. See our full nanny cost breakdown, including the average salary by U.S. city.

    The average cost of a nanny can also increase if you need a flexible schedule or light housekeeping services. A     nanny share might be a more cost-effective way to balance expenses for families with multiple children.

  • Daycare: Daycare costs can vary based on the location, reputation, and type of care offered at the childcare center. While it may be more budget-friendly than a nanny for a single child, the cost of daycare can add up if you need extended hours or have multiple children. Family daycares, typically run out of a home, might offer a more affordable alternative to larger daycare centers.

Which is more affordable? Likely daycare.

Personalized and Individualized Care

  • Nanny: A nanny provides one-on-one care, allowing for a highly personalized experience tailored to your infant’s needs. This individualized attention can help your child reach key developmental milestones faster, as the caregiver focuses solely on your infant’s growth and activities to build language and motor skills.

  • Daycare: In a daycare setting, the caregiver ratio tends to be higher, meaning each daycare worker is responsible for multiple children. This environment offers less individual attention but can still be a valuable setting for socialization and learning when your child is older. 

Which has more personalized care? Likely a nanny.

Socialization and Social Skills

  • Nanny: While a nanny can supervise outings to parks and playdates, your infant will primarily receive one-on-one interaction. This level of individual attention can be great for building a secure bond, but offers fewer chances to develop social skills with other children. When weighing nanny vs daycare options, this one-on-one focus may be a pro or a con, depending on your socialization priorities for your infant.

  • Daycare: In a daycare setting, your infant will have daily opportunities to interact with peers and older children, helping them develop essential social skills. This interaction fosters early modeling of communication, sharing, and adaptability, which is impactful for future learning and socialization. 

Which offers more socialization? Likely daycare.

Flexibility and Schedule

  • Nanny: Nannies offer unparalleled flexibility, often working around your weekly hours and specific needs. If you require evening and weekend care, coverage for holidays, or have a regular schedule that varies week to week, a nanny can adapt to your lifestyle. They may also help with household chores or provide light housekeeping, adding convenience for busy parents.

  • Daycare: Most daycares operate on a fixed schedule, which may not accommodate last-minute late pickups, holiday coverage, or extended hours. Some family daycares offer part-time daycare options, which can be helpful if you don’t need full-time care but still want a structured environment for your infant. If you’re debating between nanny vs. daycare, this scheduling flexibility could be a deciding factor.

Which offers more schedule flexibility? Likely a nanny.

Additional Considerations

  • Health and Safety: When considering nanny vs daycare, it’s important to note that a nanny reduces your child’s exposure to germs. While daycare settings provide strict health and safety protocols, there are inevitable outbreaks of contagious childhood illnesses. A nanny may also agree to care for your sick infant, while a daycare will send them home immediately.
  • Development: Nannies can focus on your infant’s childhood education and developmental milestones, while daycares offer a structured curriculum that helps children learn in a group setting.
  • Monitoring: Some parents install a nanny cam for added peace of mind when hiring a nanny. Daycare facilities usually have security measures to ensure all children’s safety.

Related: The Pros and Cons of Daycare Revealed by Studies

nanny cost vs daycare Choosing the Best Care for Your Infant – Nanny vs Daycare

Deciding between a nanny or daycare for your infant isn’t easy, but knowing your priorities can help guide your decision. Whether it’s the affordability of child care centers, a nanny’s one-on-one care, or a daycare’s social benefits, the best option depends on your family’s needs.

Ready to find the perfect fit for your infant’s care?

Find a nanny or daycare near you at UrbanSitter.
Learn more

5 Tips for Saving Money on Infant Care Near Me

finding infant care near me

As a parent, finding affordable and reliable infant care near you is crucial. Infant care can be one of the biggest expenses for new parents with the median year cost of center-based infant care in the US being $28,767 in 2023 according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Fortunately, there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Here are five tips for saving money on infant care near you:

Tip 1: Consider in-home infant care

One way to save money is to consider in-home care instead of a day care, where a caregiver comes to your home to care for your child. In-home infant care may be more economical than daycare center infant care, especially if you have more than one child who requires care. You’ll only be paying for one caregiver’s time rather than multiple daycare center staff.

Another advantage of in-home childcare services is that they can be more personalized to your child’s needs. Your caregiver can tailor their care to your child’s specific routines and preferences, which can help your child feel more comfortable and secure. Additionally, in-home care can help reduce your child’s exposure to illnesses and infections that can spread more easily in group care settings.

With resources like UrbanSitter, you can find experienced and reliable in-home infant care providers in your area. Plus, you can easily book and pay for care right through the app.

Tried, true and trusted infant care

Find affordable care for newborns and infants with UrbanSitter.
Learn more

Tip 2: Research and compare infant day care providers

Another way to save money is to research and compare infant care providers in your area. Start by asking friends and family for recommendations. Then, research providers online and compare their costs and services.

Be sure to look for providers that are licensed and accredited by reputable organizations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC). Licensing requirements vary by state. Generally, licensed providers meet certain standards for health and safety, while accredited providers have voluntarily undergone a rigorous review process to ensure they meet high standards for quality care. Finally, consider the location of the provider. Finding one that is close to your home or work can help you save money on gas and transportation costs.

Tip 3: Utilize tax credits, state child care assistance and flexible spending accounts

Many working parents are eligible for tax credits and flexible spending accounts for child care expenses. Additionally, certain states offer childcare voucher programs and other assistance. These resources can help you save money on infant care.

In 2023, the Child and Dependent Care Credit allows parents to claim up to $3,000 in child care expenses for one child or up to $6,000 for two or more children. The amount of the credit varies based on your income level and the number of children in your household. For more information about this credit, visit the IRS website. Select states also offer an additional dependent care tax credit to help parents with the cost of child care. 

Another way to save money on infant care is through Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA). A DCFSA allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible child care expenses, including infant care. In 2023, the maximum annual contribution limit is $5,000 per household or $2,500 if married, filing separately. Talk to your employer’s human resources department to find out if your company offers a DCFSA. You should always consult with a tax professional to ensure that you are taking advantage of all available tax benefits and following IRS guidelines.

infant day care provider

Tip 4: Negotiate prices

Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with infant care providers. Many providers are willing to work with parents to find a price that works for both parties. When negotiating prices, keep in mind that the cost of infant care can vary widely depending on your location and the specific provider you’re working with.

To negotiate effectively, start by researching the going rates for infant care in your area. This will give you an idea of what to expect and can help you make a reasonable offer. Additionally, consider offering to pay for a longer period of time upfront, such as six months or a year, in exchange for a discounted rate. You could also ask if they offer any discounts for referrals or for siblings enrolled in their program. Just remember, while it’s important to save money on infant care, it’s equally important to choose a provider that offers high-quality care for your child.

Tip 5: Create a budget

Creating a budget for infant care expenses is an essential step in saving money on child care. To get started, calculate your total monthly expenses. This includes any costs associated with in-home care or daycare center fees, as well as any additional expenses such as transportation, meals, and supplies.

Once you have a clear picture of your expenses, look for ways to cut costs. For example, you may be able to save money by packing your child’s lunch instead of buying it from the provider or by finding a more affordable provider in your area. 

To make creating a budget easier, you can use a budget template specifically designed for a family. This resource from Nerd Wallet is a free budget worksheet for parents that helps you estimate all of your expenses. So you know exactly how much you can afford to spend on infant care.

In conclusion, finding affordable infant care can be challenging. However, by considering in-home care, researching and comparing providers, utilizing tax credits and flexible spending accounts, negotiating prices, and creating a budget, you can save money on infant care near you. Don’t forget to check out UrbanSitter for trusted in-home providers in your area.

Infant care that fits your budget

Find affordable care for newborns and infants with UrbanSitter.
Learn more

What to Know About Drool Rash

backup care, back up child care, back up childcare, backup child care, back up care, on demand childcare

All babies drool, but saliva on skin can cause a drooling rash near the mouth. From symptoms to treatment, here’s what to know about drool rash.

What is Drool Rash?

Drool rash, also known as drooling rash or newborn rash, is a type of contact dermatitis caused by excessive drool settling on the skin and irritating babies’ sensitive skin.

Babies develop their salivary glands around 2 to 3 months, which is when drool rash can begin, and they typically stop drooling when they’re around 15 to 18 months old. However, drool rash is most common when babies are teething. Babies drool the most while teething because they have new teeth cutting through their gums.

Additionally, pacifiers and teething rings can increase the risk of drool rash since they cause contact between saliva and the skin.

Related: Tips for Helping Your Teething Tot

What Does It Look Like?

Drool rash often looks like a bumpy red rash, often around babies’ mouths, chins, and necks. This image via Medical News Today shows what drool rash around the mouth may look like. If the rash appears more severe, including oozing or blistering, you should contact your child’s doctor for treatment.

drool rash example

How Do You Treat Drool Rash?

Drooling is a natural part of growing up, so how can you prevent your baby from developing a drooling rash or help an existing rash clear up? The easiest way to treat it is to prevent further contact between saliva and the skin as much as possible. Putting your baby in an absorbent bib and changing it when needed, as well as wiping excess saliva from their mouths, is the most effective way to reduce saliva’s contact with the skin.

To help the rash heal faster, you can gently clean the irritated area with warm water and a washcloth twice a day, making sure to pat the skin gently rather than rubbing the rash. After cleaning, you can apply a barrier cream or ointment such as petroleum jelly to help the rash heal faster. Avoid applying lotions or products with fragrance, and ask your child’s doctor if you aren’t sure whether a product is safe for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Is Drool Rash Contagious?

It isn’t contagious, and it also isn’t connected with any underlying medical conditions.

Does It Hurt?

It may be uncomfortable and itchy for your baby, but it isn’t a serious medical issue.

Should I Contact a Doctor About Drool Rash?

While drool rash on its own is harmless, you should contact a medical professional if your baby shows more severe symptoms like these:

  • The rash lasts for more than a few days and isn’t responding to treatment.
  • The rash is cracking, oozing or blistering, which could indicate the rash is infected.
  • Your baby seems very uncomfortable with the rash.
  • Your baby has a fever.

A doctor will be able to prescribe a treatment like an over-the-counter cream that should clear up your baby’s drooling rash in no time.

In Short, What Should I Know About Drool Rash?

Drool rash is a bumpy red rash around babies’ mouths caused by saliva touching and irritating their skin, often when they’re teething. There are three easy ways to treat it. First, you can prevent saliva from touching the skin with an absorbent bib. Second, you can gently clean the area with warm water and a washcloth. Third, you can apply a barrier cream like petroleum jelly to the rash. It isn’t contagious or overly painful, but if your baby has more severe symptoms, you should contact their doctor for treatment.

Related: Tips for Helping Your Teething Tot

How We Wrote This Article

We wrote this article using trusted medical sources, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and Mount Sinai. The advice in this article should not replace expert medical consultation, and you should contact medical professionals for official diagnoses and treatments.

Sources we cited:
American Academy of Pediatrics, Drooling and Your Baby
Mount Sinai, Special Topic: Teething
Scripps Health, Baby’s Drool Rash: How To Treat and Prevent It

Looking for experienced child care?

Find sitters who fit your family's needs through UrbanSitter.
Get started

Have Baby, Will Travel

Traveling with a baby

Whether you’re taking a road trip or facing a long flight together, the thought of traveling with an infant can be daunting, especially for first-timers. But, the trip doesn’t have to be a hairy one.

In fact, infants often make for much better travel companions than their squirmy, mobile, older siblings! Consider these tips from the experts for smooth, stress-free travel with your baby this summer.

Tips for Traveling with Infants

  1. Travel Light. We think babies require a lot of stuff, but whittle down your daily baby care items to the bare essentials, and you’ll be surprised at how little a baby really needs. Unless you’re headed to a remote location, you can lighten the load significantly by renting the big, must-have items and have them waiting for you when you arrive. Rental companies such as Babyquip, Rents 4 Baby and Travelingbaby.com will deliver to your destination, so no need to lug a crib or pack-n-play, jogging stroller, high chair, bicycle baby carrier, swing or baby gates. Verywell has a list of the best baby rental equipment.
    • They’ll also deliver car seats. Another option is to reserve one through your rental car carrier. Just be sure to request one in advance, making sure it’s the appropriate size, since supplies seem to be limited.
    • Another helpful hint for keeping the packing to a minimum –  purchase diapers, formula and extra baby wipes when you arrive, rather than carrying a large supply with you.
  2. Think ahead and be prepared. Ever try to carry a baby through a busy airport, thinking it was easier to check the stroller at baggage claim? Ever try to hold an infant while using a public restroom? Not fun. Make it easier on yourself by becoming one with your stroller while traveling. Not only will it save you from having to carry your precious cargo, it will also provide a place to change a diaper or let a tired little one get some rest. Along with the stroller, be sure you have an especially well-packed diaper bag, carry-on or tote. A diaper bag packed for an infant should include:
    • at least two changes of simple, low-fuss clothes and socks (blow-outs happen when you least expect them!)
    • diapers and plenty of baby wipes
    • a bottle and formula if you are bottle-feeding, a pacifier (especially helpful to combat air-pressure changes while flying)
    • hand sanitizer
    • light blanket to warm a chilly baby, serve as a nursing shield or provide a place to lie your baby down for a stretch.
    • any necessary medications, sunscreen, and diaper rash cream.
  3. Consider applying for TSA PreCheck
    • To make traveling through the airport even easier, you might want to apply for TSA PreCheck.  Children under 12 can go through TSA PreCheck with an adult who has it. With TSA Pre, your family won’t need to remove shoes, belts, toiletries, personal electronics such as an iPad or laptop or jackets, plus the line moves much more quickly. Keep in mind there is a cost to applying, however many credit cards will reimburse you.
  4. Keep to a schedule. Most parents agree with the experts who tell us that babies who stick to a schedule or routine are often the most content.
    • While it’s not always possible to follow the exact routine you have at home, you can typically feed, change and put your baby to sleep with some consistency. You and your baby will have a happier trip if she’s not skipping naps or missing bottles or snacks.
  5. Incorporate time for yourself and time with your spouse or partner. No matter how well you plan and prepare, travel with a baby can be stressful and tiring. Give yourself a break by making time to take care of yourself and your adult relationships. Let Dad do solo duty for a bit while you splurge on a spa treatment, take a nap or simply lounge by the pool with a good book.
    • You can both get a break and a chance to see the sights by taking advantage of a local babysitter. Hotels can often recommend local babysitters, though it’s typically less expensive and more convenient to find and book a trustworthy babysitter on UrbanSitter. You’ll have greater peace of mind leaving your child in a new sitter’s care after reading her profile and other parents’ reviews on the site.

Before long, your tiny travel companion will become an energetic toddler in tow! Check out these tips for happy traveling with tots and little kids.

Looking for a babysitter or nanny while on vacation? Join UrbanSitter to find sitters at your vacation destination. 

News You Can Use: Singing to Soothe a Crying Baby

Crying baby

By Dawn Van Osdell

Every parent has tip-toed away from a nearly sleeping baby after using all the tricks in our arsenal to sooth him. Turns out, these shenanigans might not be necessary.  A new study from the University of Montreal found that the best way to console a crying baby is to sing him a nursery rhyme. Babies in the study, which was recently published in Infancy, remained calm twice as long when they listened to a song—even one they didn’t know—as they did when they listened to parental speech.

We’ve known for years—generations, even—that music has a calming effect on humans, but until now it wasn’t known whether infants had the mental ability to be enraptured by it as well. “Many studies have looked at how singing and speech affect infants’ attention, but we wanted to know how they affect a baby’s emotional self-control,” says Isabelle Peretz, professor at the University of Montreal’s Center for Research on Brain, Music and Language. “Emotional self-control is obviously not developed in infants, and we believe singing helps babies and children develop this capacity.”

Her research studied 30 infants aged 6 to 9 months. In order to eliminate the possibility of influence by other factors—sensitivity to a mother’s voice, facial expressions, and connection between performer and baby, for instance—all speech and music were uttered in Turkish, a language that was unfamiliar to the babies; and parents were present, but out of sight. The music used was recorded rather than live, so no points were awarded for an especially talented singer or for social interaction between the singer and child.

When listening to the nursery rhymes, which tend to have a specific range of tones and rhythms, babies remained calm an average of nine minutes. They were calm for roughly half as long when speech—using baby-talk or not—was attempted as a means to sooth them.

“Our findings leave little doubt about the efficacy of singing nursery rhymes for maintaining infants’ composure for extended periods,” Peretz said. “Even in the relatively sterile environment of the testing room—blank walls, dim illumination, no toys, and no human visual or tactile stimulation—the sound of a woman singing prolonged infants’ positive or neutral states and inhibited distress.”

The findings are important because mothers, and Western mothers especially, speak much more often than they sing to their children. Switching to song as a comforting response could mean the difference between a crying baby and a content one.  No worries if you don’t know the words or can’t carry a tune—infants haven’t yet developed the capacity to judge you!

Photograph by Angelica Lasala via Compfight

Keeping the Nursery Cool in Summer

photo via creative commons

PHOTO VIA CREATIVE COMMONS

Even new parents quickly realize that an uncomfortable baby is an unhappy baby. When homes start to heat up in summer, letting young children run around in nothing more than a diaper can keep them comfortable during the day. But nighttime and nap-time coolness requires making a few adjustments to the nursery, to ensure that baby sleeps well.

For starters, block direct sunlight from streaming into the room. This is particularly important if the nursery is on the west side of your home, or otherwise receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day. Hang black out curtains, which will reduce heat transfer from windows.

Another way to reduce the amount of heat coming through is to install specialty sunscreens on the exterior of the nursery windows. This type of screen can block up to 95 percent of sunlight, and can be easily removed and stored when winter comes.

Maximizing airflow is also a must. And while cribs filled with teddy bears, blankets, and crib bumpers might look cute and cozy, all that extra fluff blocks airflow (it can also be a suffocation risk). Instead, choose a crib guard that leaves space for air to move freely into the crib through the rails. And swap out blankets for a lightweight swaddler or sleep sack. Put everything else away.

Also remember that during the summer months, ceiling fans should be set to rotate counter-clockwise. This pushes air straight down to cool the room, rather than pulling it up, to warm it. The hotter it gets, the higher the speed of your fan should be.

Clogged and dirty air ducts can reduce the flow of A/C into the nursery, especially if the room is far from the central unit. Hire a pro at an HVAC company, who can measure airflow coming from vents in the nursery and help determine if a duct cleaning is needed, or if the A/C unit needs servicing.

For more nursery tips, visit Go Mama Go.

The Best Mommy and Me Workouts

[maxbutton id=”1″]

Have baby, need a workout? We hear ya! It’s hard for anyone to squeeze regular exercise into a busy life, but moms of infants fight an especially tough uphill battle to make it happen. New moms are fighting fatigue and struggling to fit their own needs around their baby’s complete dependence.

Fortunately, their cries were heard, as witnessed by the plethora of Mommy & Me workout classes that have sprouted up around the country to enable Moms to workout without worrying about childcare. There’s truly something for everyone – from yoga, pilates, barre, stroller workouts, dance, cardio and strength training, and intense boot camps to kick your butt.

Here are our favorite postpartum workouts that allow you to work up a sweat with a built-in support network of other moms and your baby at your side.

image via Ed Yourdon, flickr
image via Ed Yourdon, flickr

NATIONWIDE

These popular programs have a strong presence from coast to coast. Check their websites to find a location near you. We can almost guarantee that you’ll find more than one option that is close by and just right for your needs and your schedule.

Fit4Mom
Here’s where to go for an awesome outdoor workout with your baby. The founders of the original Stroller Strides have expanded to now offer Fit4Baby (a prenatal fitness class), Body Back (a workout for any stage of motherhood) and Stroller Barre. They also host an impressive mom community with playgroups and moms nights out.

Baby Boot Camp
There are more than 50 Baby Boot Camp programs throughout the Bay Area alone, and hundreds more across the country. The most popular stroller fitness class they offer, STROLLFIT, is a 60-minute class for moms of all fitness levels with one or two stroller-aged children. The ab routine at the end of each class makes it a total body workout.

Moms In Training
A program of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Moms In Training is a flexible, nine-week workout program that meets Saturday mornings. Get together with other moms and their babies to not only get in shape, but also raise funds for cancer treatments.

SAN FRANCISCO/BAY AREA

San Francisco is likely the yoga capital of the country and has no shortage of prenatal, postnatal and Mommy & Me yoga classes from one end of the city to the other. Golden Gate Mothers Group offers a fantastic list of yoga options for Moms. Bookmark it! The city also has some of the most active chapters of the national workouts we mentioned above. For Mommy & Me exercise options outside of the city, read on.

Pomegranate – San Anselmo
A wonderful center with prenatal and postnatal yoga and pilates, as well as new mom groups and workshops. You can do the classes with your baby and they also sometimes offer childcare so you can enjoy a bit of solo time.

Lautmann’s Gym – Mill Valley
Check out their new class for moms and their babies where you wear your baby in a carrier and the workout is designed (and approved by an RN) to use your baby’s weight as resistance.

Mommy & Me Pilates – Pilates Pro Works – Oakland
Popular pilates and barre studio offers a Mommy & Me Pilates class designed for new moms and their babies age 6 weeks to crawlers.

Yogalayam – Berkeley
Awesome Mommy & Me Yoga classes at this Prana Yoga studio.

Yogini & Bambini Yoga at Nandhi Yoga – San Mateo
Designed for moms who want practice yoga with their little ones by their sides. Open to all levels with babies who are pre-crawling to 24 months.

[maxbutton id=”1″]

NEW YORK CITY AREA

Mommy and Me Fitness – throughout Manhattan
A wildly popular personal trainer leads moms in sessions that vary from jogging, doing squats and lunges, jumping rope, using resistance bands and working with the environment around you to get a great workout with great company or on your own if you prefer a private session.

Strollercize – Central Park
Use your stroller as a fitness apparatus to strengthen, slim and balance, and when your hands are not on the stroller, use the program’s RollerSize to tone thighs, target tummies and improve posture.

BoSoul – Manhattan
New Yorkers use this cool, innovative service to find other moms with similar interests, form or join a class group and hire a top-notch instructor who is available when they are.

Baby Om Yoga – Manhatttan and Brooklyn
A 75-minute class providing a full yoga experience for both caregiver and baby.

LOS ANGELES AREA

Zooga Yoga – Culver City
Zooga offers a full range of classes suitable for yogis of all ages, from babies to toddlers to teens & families; and for adults and mommies in all stages of pregnancy.

CHICAGO AREA

Hip Circle Studio – Evanston
This studio exceeds the typical offerings with popular classes such as a dynamic cardio class, dance, yoga and even belly dancing for moms and their babies or young children.

Bubbles Academy – Chicago
A bootcamp style workout that uses a combination of running, weight training, ballet and barre to kick you into (or back into!) shape. Studio offers free sibling care so you can enjoy some one-on-one time with your child.

Active Moms Club – Chicago
Mommy & Me Postnatal Recovery class is targeted to new Moms who are 6 weeks to 6 months postpartum and ready to lose their baby belly. The workout aims to tighten your abs, pelvic floor muscles and lower and upper back—all with your little one by your side. Toddler care for older siblings is available at a minimal cost.

WASHINGTON DC AREA

Lil Omm Yoga – Tenleytown
Community yoga center focused on yoga for all levels, specializing in prenatal, Mommy and Me yoga and yoga fitness classes and yoga for children. Their popular Mommy and Me YogaFit workout blends cardio, yoga, strength, and resistance training using free weights, bands, and blocks for a more intense workout.

Past Tense Yoga – Mt. Pleasant
Studio offers pre and postnatal yoga classes, kids yoga, Music Together classes and PJ parties.  They also offer a fun Movers and Me class, though it’s more of a workout for your crawling to age 2 child than it is for you

Thanks to these fun, innovative and effective workouts, you can exercise around your baby’s feeding and nap schedule and enjoy the company of other moms who feel your pain in more ways than one.

[maxbutton id=”1″]