Ear Piercing:

Many mums would like to have their baby girls ears pierced at an early age. There are two camps of thoughts on when it should be done. One camp believes that piercing in the months of life is not advisable, as baby's immune system is not fully developed. The second camp believes if a sterile technique with other safety measures are used, it is OK.

Prevention against infection: Go to a person experienced in piercing babies. Use 14k gold posts to avoid allergic reaction, as some babies are known to react against sterling silver or stainless steel posts. Keep the area clean after the procedure. Strep or staph bacteria can enter open wounds causing red and swollen earlobes, which is only treatable with antibiotics.

Choose the right earrings: With the piercing done, your next concern will be the earring choice. Screw-on back is a better option, as they don't come off easily when baby starts to play with her ears. She may put the loose part in her mouth and choke on it.

Word of caution: Some doctors advise piercing when baby is at least 4 months old, after having received at least two shots of Dtap (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis)


Solids to induce Sleep:

A friend or relative may wrongly advise you on your baby requiring solid food to sleep better and longer. Babies should not be given anything besides milk until he turns 4-5 months old. Baby is not going to gain nutritionally or sleep longer if he goes on solids this early; on the contrary tummy aches can develop since the digestive system is not equipped to deal with other foods. This will defeat the purpose and keep the ailing baby up all night instead.


Fluoride Supplementation:

For healthy development of teeth babies need fluoride. Bring up this issue with your pediatrician. Most pediatricians begin the supplement when baby is about 6 months old. Dosage depends on fluoride content in your water supply and whether baby is receiving any of that water. For example, powdered formula is made with water compared to breast milk or ready-to-use formula, and that may determine when to begin supplementation. Too much fluoride can cause discolored or mottled teeth so it is best to receive your pediatrician's guidance on this.



Baby's Soft Spots:

Soft spots on baby's head enable his head to grow. The spot at the back of his head should close about now. The bigger one at the top of baby's head takes longer to close; it usually hardens completely after baby turns 18 months old. It is ok to touch these spots gently. If the fontanel sinks in or bulges or hardens before it should, call your pediatrician for an assessment.


Baby-proofing your home:

Think now, before baby is mobile, about baby proofing your home. Some people believe that nothing should be moved or put away as this will train baby on what he can and cannot touch. Other parents believe that anything baby might reach should be removed so you never have to deny your baby anything. The middle road is best; you don't have to put away everything your baby might reach or touch. Store away breakables, valuables and dangerous items for a while. Put only what is safe around the house. Sooner or later, your baby has to understand and learn 'No'. Let the practice begin on safe objects that don't pose any danger. This way baby expands his horizons without causing damage and endangering himself along the way.


Smoking and Baby:

Smoking harms baby. Secondary smoke itself contains more than 200 poisonous substances, which your baby breathes in each time you or someone else lights a cigarette near him. It is advisable to quit the habit. Baby develops many complications such as respiratory infections, asthma, breathing problems, middle ear infections. It also contributes to the development of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). In addition accidents can happen where the smoker may accidentally burn him with a lit cigarette. If you and other members cannot give up the habit, be sure not to smoke around baby or anywhere else in the house. Smoke outside. Never smoke in enclosed spaces such as cars when baby is with you. Avoid smoke-filled areas whenever possible such as restaurants or public areas where smoking is allowed. Make sure your baby is protected at child-care centers as well.


Toy Hazards:

Start paying attention to toy details from now on, as your baby is growing older and the potential for hazard increases. Avoid toys with small parts to it such as eyes or nose that your baby might pull off a stuffed toy. Avoid toys that are too small or have small loose pieces to them.