A Healthier You in 2025

New Year, Healthier You

With each new year, many people resolve to make big changes in their lives. They make plans to lose weight, go to the gym, and do other life-altering things. What you may not realize, though, is that by simply changing some habits, you can improve your health and your life. What will you do this year, to promote your own health in 2025?

Making Lifestyle Changes

There are several shifts you can make in your habits that will benefit your health. Here are a few to consider.

• Don’t smoke or vape. You may have started vaping to quit smoking, but research is increasingly indicating that vaping is detrimental to your health as well.
• Cut down on sugar. Even little things can make a big difference, like swapping out soda for water, or forgoing sugary dessert in favor of fresh fruit.
• Limit your alcohol. Some alcohol is ok, but if you think you are overdoing it, now is a good time to cut back. If you need to, take a dry January or choose another month to eliminate alcohol completely.
• Get enough rest. You may think it’s virtuous to stay busy 24/7, but it could be ruining your health. Doctors recommend six to nine hours a night for adults.
• Take a walk. Regular exercise can be a game changer, so if you are not exercising, start by scheduling a 15 minute walk every day. Build up from there, to get the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week.
• Practice self-care. Often, we focus on meeting others’ needs, to our own detriment. Learn to say no when necessary, stop trying to do it all, and make time to show yourself some compassion and care.
• Stop procrastinating. This can be a hard habit to break, but if you look at it as costing you opportunities, it may make it a little bit easier.

Taking Better Care of Your Physical Health

You only get one body, so take these steps to make sure you are not neglecting it.

• Mind your oral health. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body, so brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
• Get a checkup. Keeping up with your annual physical will help your doctor catch problems before they become unmanageable.
• Take medications only as directed. It can be tempting to stash away some of that antibiotic or pain medication for the next time you are sick, but this practice can be very damaging to your health. Only take what the doctor orders.
• Have recommended screenings. You may not enjoy going to the doctor when you aren’t sick, but screenings are a good way to keep you from getting sick!
• Protect your sexual health. Safe sex is a must, and so is respecting yourself and your partner. Make sure you are keeping up with the necessary doctor visits to protect your reproductive system.
• Minimize your stress. Stress contributes to a wide variety of physical problems, so learning to manage it is vital to your health and wellbeing.

Maintaining Your Mental Health

Many people, particularly men, tend to neglect their own mental health. To take better care of yours, try these practices.

• Limit your media consumption. Doom scrolling and engaging on social media are habits that can easily suck away your time and your joy.
• Try not to overthink. It is easy to fall into the trap of over analyzing things, but this can lead to anxiety. Challenge negative thoughts and make a point of trusting that you have done all you can, letting the rest be what it will be.
• Pay attention. Often, we overlook our own mental health until we find ourselves in a dark place. Notice when you are starting to have negative feelings and be proactive about managing them.
• Validate your feelings. You are entitled to feel what you feel, without labeling your feelings as negative. Work on accepting your own feelings as valid, and then decide what to do with them.
• Practice mindfulness. Breathing exercises, meditation, and being mindful in the moment can all increase your peace.
• Keep a journal. Try writing down the things you are grateful for, and you may feel happier. If worrying is your problem, schedule time each day to write down your worries, and it will help you set them aside.
• Prioritize a support system. Everyone needs people to support them through good times and bad. Build a support system for yourself and make time to nurture your friendships.

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal Help Protect Your Reproductive Health

Whether you need medical help with fertility or advice on useful lifestyle and dietary changes to improve your reproductive health, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is here for you. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Pros and Cons of Swaddling

To Swaddle or Not to Swaddle

Swaddling has been gaining popularity in the last several years, and it is estimated that about 90 percent of babies in the United States are swaddled in their early months. Proponents swear by it, and it can help babies calm down and sleep better. It is not for every baby or every family, though, and there are concerns that it can sometimes be dangerous. Should you swaddle your little one? Let’s take a closer look at swaddling.

What is Swaddling?

An ancient practice, swaddling involves wrapping a baby snugly to promote good sleep. It soothes babies by recreating the cozy feeling of being in the womb. It can also make it easier for them to sleep on their backs, which is the recommended position to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Swaddling can be particularly useful for babies with a strong startle reflex, and it can help soothe fussy babies. Done properly, and only in the early months, swaddling can be extremely beneficial.

Swaddling Benefits

Swaddling is a widespread practice because of its many benefits.

• Swaddling helps babies sleep more soundly. Swaddling comforts babies by giving them the feeling of being held close, and the weight applied by the swaddle can have a calming effect. Additionally, because babies who are swaddled startle less, they are less likely to jerk and wake themselves up.
• Babies who are swaddled tend to cry less. Fussy babies are often comforted by swaddling. In fact, it has been shown to decrease crying in by up to 42 percent in babies eight weeks old or younger. Even colicky babies are often calmed by a swaddle.
• Premature babies can benefit from swaddling. There is evidence to indicate that swaddling helps with their muscle and nerve development, as well as motor movement.
• Swaddled babies don’t need loose blankets to be cozy. Parents who want to make sure their babies stay warm may be tempted to cover them in their cribs. However, blankets can pose a suffocation hazard, making swaddling a good alternative.
• Babies in a swaddle can’t scratch their faces. Babies do not have much control over their movements, but they do have very sharp little fingernails. Consequently, they tend to scratch themselves. By holding their arms immobile, swaddling prevents these scratches.
• It is easier for swaddled babies to sleep on their backs. This makes parents more likely to put them to sleep flat on their backs, which reduces the risk of SIDS.

Can Swaddling be Dangerous?

Even with the benefits swaddling provides, there are some risks, especially if the swaddling is improperly done.

• Swaddling may increase the risk of SIDS. While swaddling encourages back sleeping, which reduces the risk of SIDS, swaddling can further increase the risk of SIDS for babies on their stomachs. This is believed to be the result of lowered arousal. In other words, swaddling can make it more difficult for a baby to wake up, increasing the risk of SIDS.
• Improper swaddling can result in loose bedding. If the baby wriggles out of the swaddle, the cloth can be loose in the bed, increasing the risk of suffocation.
• Babies who are swaddled may overheat. Be careful, if you are swaddling your baby, that your baby isn’t overdressed. Touch the baby’s chest or the back of the neck, and if he or she is hot or sweaty, use a lightweight, breathable fabric for swaddling, or remove a layer of clothing.
• Improper swaddling increases the risk of developmental hip dysplasia. The hip is a ball and socket joint, and when a baby is swaddled too tightly, the ball of the hip can be shifted so that it slides out of place in the socket.

How to Safely Swaddle

The first thing to know about swaddling is that it should only be done in the first two months. Beyond that, there are some tips to follow to be sure you are swaddling safely.

• Don’t overdo it. Babies can’t yet regulate their temperature, but overheating can increase the risk of SIDS. That’s why it is so important to make sure the baby isn’t too hot.
• Use a secure swaddle. You can use a regular blanket or a blanket that is designed for swaddling, but whichever you use, make sure it’s secure. Otherwise, it can come undone and cover the baby’s face during sleep.
• Keep it secure without making it too tight. A swaddle that is too tight can not only affect the hip joints but can also hinder lung function. Using a blanket designed for swaddling can make it easier to achieve the right fit.
• Stop swaddling when your baby learns to roll over. If a swaddled baby rolls onto his or her stomach, it can lead to SIDS.
• Limit baby’s swaddling time. Babies need to spend time moving freely, learning to move around and become more mobile.
• When in doubt, ask. At your birthing location, someone should be able to teach you proper swaddling techniques, to help you avoid risks.

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal Help You Start Your Family

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Pregnancy Trimester Challenges

The Joys and Challenges of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman’s life. The very act of growing a human inside your body is such a miracle that it is hard to even fully comprehend it. That being said, being pregnant can also be quite challenging. Some women sail right through it, with very few issues, but for others, there are challenges at every stage. Whether you are in the first category, the second, or somewhere in between, it is good to know what to expect.

The First Trimester

The first trimester symptom just about everyone knows about is morning sickness, which can be severe. There are various remedies for morning sickness, including keeping a light snack by your bed, taking B vitamins, and wearing pressure bands designed for sea sickness. However, that’s not the only first trimester symptom. Many women feel overwhelming fatigue, and some find they get headaches, urinate frequently, and suffer from constipation. The breasts can become tender or swollen, food cravings and aversions take center stage, and women may experience muscle cramps. Spotting can also occur during the first trimester, even in healthy pregnancies. This trimester is a busy one in terms of the baby’s development, and the time when most miscarriages occur, so make sure you are getting prenatal care and following your doctor’s instructions.

The Second Trimester

With the approach of the second trimester, most women breathe a sigh of relief as their morning sickness dissipates or at least lessens. Energy returns, women feel like eating again, they start to look pregnant, and pregnancy becomes more enjoyable. However, that doesn’t mean there are no second trimester symptoms. Many women still deal with constipation and muscle cramps but also experience heartburn, congestion, back pain, ligament pain, and the tightening of the uterine muscles known as Braxton-Hicks contractions. It is during the second trimester that women may develop varicose veins, changes in skin pigmentation, and bleeding gums. This is the trimester where most testing happens, so it’s important to keep up your prenatal visits.

The Third Trimester

The third trimester is the home stretch! Even though the end is in sight, it is definitely a marathon, and women typically experience symptoms that make it feel like the pregnancy will last forever. Some of the first trimester symptoms return, like frequent urination and fatigue, and some of the ones from the second trimester continue, like Braxton-Hicks, round ligament pain, and heartburn. They are joined by other unpleasant symptoms like hemorrhoids, sleeping issues, swollen extremities, and shortness of breath. Keep up the good work of following your doctor’s instructions, pack a bag for the hospital, and get ready to meet your new little one!

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal Help You Achieve a Healthy Pregnancy

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

The Top Christmas Gifts for Children

Looking for the Perfect Christmas Gifts in 2024

Finding gifts for children can be tricky, in part because there is such a wide variety of choices! Wading through all of those options, you will want to find a gift that will excite the child in your life yet have staying power. After all, no one wants to buy a gift for a child and have it forgotten in a matter of weeks. What’s more, you probably want to choose a gift that provides value, either teaching a skill, boosting creativity, or encouraging exercise or outdoor activity. What’s the secret to choosing the perfect gift? We have some tips, along with some great suggestions for great Christmas gifts.

Tips for Shopping for Children

Let’s review a few goals of shopping for kids. The gift should be fun and exciting, and encourage kids to explore and discover the world in new ways. It should also be something that will last a while, evolving with the child, and it should not contribute to clutter. Does this sound like a tall order? Here’s how to begin your search.

• Consider the age of the child. Manufacturers offer guidelines in the form of a suggested age range, and these are good to keep in mind, for the sake of safety. Children are unique, though, so the age range is not a hard and fast rule. Think about the child’s developmental stage and interests, meeting where the child is right now. Don’t assume that if a child is mature, that automatically means he or she will want a gift targeted at older children. When in doubt, ask the parents.
• Think about the educational value of a gift. Some toys are designed to teach children specific facts, like spelling or math. Others are good for child development, like puzzles or a bicycle. However, anything that inspires creativity, stimulates the senses, improves motor skills, or expands the way the child sees the world can be considered educational.
• Play value and longevity are important. Kids outgrow their toys, but some toys have more staying power than others. Look for an open ended gift that can be used in different ways, so that the child can continue to find ways to use it for years to come. Look for gifts that are durable and well-made, so that they can be passed along and used by other children.

Top Christmas Gifts for Children

Rather than endorsing a specific brand or product, we will offer some great examples of toys that fit the bill.

• Creative Toys: There are kits to teach kids to crochet, make pom poms, bedazzle, make friendship bracelets, create temporary tattoos, and just about anything else you can imagine. It is also a very solid plan, though, to purchase more versatile craft supplies. Who doesn’t love a gorgeous new box of crayons, markers, or colored pencils?
• Toys that Inspire Imaginative Play: This covers a broad range of toys, and these toys are also great for open-ended play. Toy kitchens, workbenches, cash registers, doctor kits, and the like will offer hours of pretend play that evolves with the child. Play tents, puppets, plushies, dolls, and dress up clothes are also great options.
• Educational Toys: Education is in the eye of the beholder, of course. Puzzle games, brain teasers, board games, and books can all stimulate the mind, and so can tools like cameras and journals.
• Toys that Get Kids Moving: Outdoor toys, mini trampolines, and games like capture the flag are solid options for big kids. For the little ones, there are push walkers of all types, many with built in shape sorters or other fun activities. Ride-on toys that are propelled by kid power are also fun and build muscle strength.
• Classic Toys: Walkie-talkies, stomp rockets, wooden toys, and all the things you loved as a kid can be exciting and new for a new generation.
• Toys that Help with Fine Motor Skills: Look for stacking and sorting toys for little ones, clay, puzzles, and building sets for older kids.
• STEM Toys: Science kits, microscopes, magic potion kits, puzzles and games that promote math skills, building sets, and marble runs are all choices you may have loved as a kid. Now, there are also toys that build coding skills, and kits to build robots! There are even STEM subscriptions, to keep kids engaged and learning.
• Sensory Toys: Water and sand tables are great for toddlers, and slime is a favorite with the elementary set- though not necessarily with parents, so you should probably ask. Fidget toys are loved by all ages, and once you get started looking, you may want some sensory toys for yourself.
• Subscriptions: Subscriptions are an excellent option, because they check all the boxes. They don’t create clutter, they grow with the child, and there are subscriptions out there for just about every interest.

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal Help You Start Your Family

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Help Your Children Communicate Better

The Importance of Effective Communication

Knowing how to communicate effectively is an important skill, and can help someone have a more successful, easier life. For young children, though, communication may not come naturally. Learning communication skills early in life gives kids an advantage, and as parents, we can help them develop these vital skills.

Helping Your Children Communicate Better

The first step in helping a child learn to communicate well is to make sure there are no barriers standing in the way. If you notice that your child is struggling, discuss it with your pediatrician to rule out any difficulties with speech or hearing, or issues like autism spectrum conditions or language barriers. Once any barriers to communication have been resolved, there are some simple steps you can take to boost your child’s communication skills.

• Talk to the child. This is one of the easiest ways to encourage communication, and you can start before the child is verbal. As you and your little one navigate the world, narrate what is happening, describing the scenery and whatever you are doing. Later, keep the conversation going, being careful to create an atmosphere of open conversation, where the children can say whatever they want to say.
• Encourage listening. Listening is just as important as talking, and perhaps more important, so this is something you will want to impress upon your child. The best way to do this is to be a good listener yourself.
• Encourage literacy skills. Developing strong reading and writing skills can vastly improve your child’s ability to communicate. This is another easy thing to work on with your children, by reading and writing with them from an early age.

Effectively Communicating with Your Children

To teach your children how to effectively communicate, you need to model effective communication skills. Communication can be verbal, and this is not just the words we say but also the way we say them. It can also be nonverbal, and this includes things like facial expressions, eye contact, hand gestures, physical touch, and personal space. You can sharpen these skills and better communicate with your children with some practice.

• Practice active listening to help your children feel heard. To show you are listening, use encouraging and affirming gestures, nodding and smiling. Get on the same eye level as your children and ask questions to encourage them to give more details and improve their own communication skills.
• Reflective listening shows children you care about what they are saying. Mirror what the child is saying, repeating the child’s statement with different words, giving your child space to express emotions in a judgement-free zone.
• Use clear and specific language. Be kind, to set a positive example, and do not use derogatory words. The conversations you have with your children should make them feel safe, loved, and respected.
• Avoid bribing your children with rewards. Instead, set clear and realistic expectation, praise good behavior, and calmly use consequences to encourage better behavior.
• Talk about feelings to help develop emotional intelligence. Listen to your children when they express their feelings verbally, considering their point of view and responding with empathy rather than judgement. When a child is expressing feelings in a nonverbal way, help put those feelings into words, to improve communication.
• Catch your children doing the right thing. Notice specific actions and give praise, to help build a child’s confidence and helps them identify the behaviors you want.
• Connect in light-hearted ways. Parenting is serious, but having fun with your children is important. Have light-hearted conversations, and find ways to relate to your children, paying attention to their interests and sharing jokes. Be careful to laugh with your child, but never at your child.
• Focus on behavior when you need to correct your child. When you are upset, avoid criticizing your child as a person, instead directing your comments at the behavior. Instead of saying “You are messy” say “I don’t like it when you leave your things on the floor of your room.”
• Set a good example. You are your children’s first teacher, and your actions are at least as important as your instruction.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Likes to Help Families Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Tips to Help Make Air Travel Smoother with a Newborn

Flying with a Baby

For even the most seasoned traveler, flying with a baby can be intimidating. Especially if it is your first time, or you are making an unexpected trip, the very idea of navigating airports, security, and a flight with a newborn can be extremely stressful. While you may not be able to control every aspect of your trip, you can be proactive and make the experience a little smoother and more enjoyable. By staying calm and planning in advance, you can improve your odds of a positive experience.

Some Things You Should Know About Babies and Flying

While most airlines will allow newborns to travel when they are only a few days old, it is recommended that you wait for at least four to six weeks to take your baby on a plane. In fact, most pediatricians recommend waiting until the baby is two or three months old, if at all possible. The reason behind this is that babies’ immune systems are not fully developed, and exposing these vulnerable little ones to the germs involved in air travel can be dangerous. If you are in doubt, talk to your pediatrician and make sure that your baby is cleared to fly. You may need a birth certificate and a doctor’s note to take a baby on a domestic flight, and if you are flying internationally, your baby will need a passport. If only one parent is taking the baby on that international flight, you will also want to bring a notarized letter from the other parent, granting permission for the travel. And while babies under two years old can fly on your lap, without a separate ticket, it is safer to buy a ticket for your newborn and bring the car seat.

Steps to Take in Advance of Your Flight

Aside from booking your tickets and gathering the appropriate documentation, there are some arrangements you should make before your flight.

• Communicate with the airline. You can book online, but the best way to make sure that you understand all of the airline’s policies ahead of time. Some airlines offer bassinets for long flights, so it is worthwhile to ask about that. Additionally, while lap babies fly free on some airlines, others charge 10 percent of the adult fee. Airlines also have different rules about the baggage allowance for babies. Clarifying the policies will keep you from being surprised at the airport.
• Make sure you have the right car seat. This is another area in which knowing the airline’s policies is helpful. Most airlines have specific restrictions on which car seats are approved for travel. Your car seat should also have the date of manufacture and indicate whether it is FAA approved. Be aware that car seats must be installed in a window seat or the middle seat, so that they do not block anyone’s exit from a seat. Car seats cannot be installed in an emergency row.
• Plan for your flight carefully. Choose a time to fly when your baby is most likely to sleep, and try to time it so that you can feed the baby during takeoff. This will reduce the pressure in the ears and make your baby more comfortable. Book a window seat, if possible, and plan to board early, so that you will have time to install your car seat.
• Plan for your stroller. It is not advisable to check your car seats and strollers if you can help it, so try to get a travel-friendly stroller that can fit in the overhead bin. Travel strollers can also make getting through security easier, because having baby in the stroller frees your hands for other things. If you plan to bring a travel system with an infant carrier, you will likely need to gate check it.

Essential Gear for Traveling with an Infant

One of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to make sure you have everything you need with you on your flight. Keep all of your essentials in your carryon in the overhead compartment, or in a smaller bag under the seat in front of you. You will need plenty of diapers and wipes, and an extra-large, wipeable changing mat for diaper changes along the way. Bring at least two extra, comfortable outfits for your baby, and make sure they are easy to take on and off. Remember to bring wet bags, too, for storing dirty clothes and diapers until you disembark. Bring burp cloths to keep your clothes clean, and hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean. Bring whatever your baby will need to eat, whether it is formula and whatever you need to prepare it, or breast milk and a pump. If you plan to breastfeed on the plane, you might want to bring a cover. Bring a few toys to entertain your little one, and a blanket or two because airplane temperatures can be unpredictable.

Managing Your Baby on the Flight

The most important thing to do on the flight is focus on your baby. Before you ever get on board, do a diaper change and have some play time, to help make baby sleepy. Be careful, though, not to let your little one get over tired before you try to get her to sleep. If you need to walk up and down the aisle to keep your baby from getting fussy, do it. Don’t pay any attention to people who make rude comments but accept help if it’s offered. Above all, remember that babies change quickly, and even if the first flight doesn’t go smoothly, there’s no reason not to try again!

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal Help You Realize Your Dreams of a Family

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Things to Consider When Looking for Daycare

Putting Your Little One into Daycare

It can be unsettling to leave your new baby in the hands of other people, but for most families, two incomes are a necessity. That means both parents must return to work, and someone must watch the baby. There are plenty of options available, from Grandma to nannies to babysitters, but the most common option in the U.S. is daycare. More affordable than a nanny and more reliable than a grandparent- no offense intended, Grandma! – daycare is the practical solution for many families.

Advantages of Daycare

Daycare can happen at a daycare center or at someone’s home, and it offers many benefits, both for the parents and the child. In a good daycare center, children get plenty of supervised socialization, under the watchful eye of nurturing, qualified caregivers. Daycare centers are reliable, open on a set schedule, and typically provide care from infancy through toddlerhood, and sometimes even into the elementary school years. They have set schedules and policies, and follow specific caregiver to child ratios, depending on age.

Drawbacks of Daycare

While daycare is comparatively inexpensive, it can still add up. If you have multiple children, a nanny may be a more cost-effective solution. Another drawback is that babies who attend daycare are exposed to more germs than those who stay home or with a family member, so you can expect your child to get sick more often. Of course, there is a theory that this strengthens the immune system and makes them less likely to contract illnesses in later childhood, but that is not always the case. Additionally, when your child gets sick, it increases your likelihood of catching the same illness, resulting in missed work. And while daycare centers have pretty reliable hours, they tend to run on the local school schedule and may be closed on holidays.

Comparing In-Home Daycare to a Center

Daycare centers are licensed by the state, and have different groups for different ages, much like a school. By contrast, in-home daycare is, as the name implies, run in someone’s home. Typically, an in-home daycare provider has children at home and is taking in other people’s children to facilitate being a stay at home parent. Some states require in-home providers to be licensed, but not all, so pay attention to your state’s laws while considering your options. And while daycare centers have a staff of trained and licensed providers, in-home daycare doesn’t require training. In a home, children are typically not separated by age, and there is often not a defined child-to-caregiver ration. What’s more, if an in-home caregiver gets sick, you will need to find your own backup, but because daycare centers have a full staff, there is always a sub at the ready. Still, many parents prefer in-home daycare, because there are fewer children, and that can mean fewer illnesses and more one-on-one attention.

Choosing the Right Daycare for Your Child

So, how do you determine which daycare is right for your child? Start by doing some research. Because many high-quality daycares have waiting lists, it is wise to start this process before the baby is born. Get recommendations from people you know, including friends, family members, and your pediatrician. Check the daycare’s accreditation, hours, and references, and if something seems “off”, cross it off your list. Visit the center in person to see if it meets your expectations, and pay attention to things like interactions between caregivers and children, sanitation practices, and safety measures. Before you make your final decision, drop by unannounced in the middle of the day to see how it truly operates, when no one is expecting you.  Finally, ask questions, to make sure it is the right fit for your family. These questions can include things like:

• What is your childcare philosophy?
• What is your child-to-caregiver ratio?
• How much experience/training do your caregivers have?
• Are the children always separated by age/developmental stage?
• What is your policy on illness?
• How do you handle problems like a defiant child or a baby who won’t stop crying?
• What is the daily schedule?
• Do you provide food, or do the parents bring it in?
• How involved are the parents?
• How do you handle parent communication?
• Do the children leave the center at any time?
• Are there cameras in the center to allow parents to observe?
• How do you handle security?

Come up with other questions, based on your concerns, and make sure the daycare you choose can answer them appropriately. Then, once you’ve enrolled your child, be sure to keep communication flowing, so that you and your child’s caregivers can have a cooperative relationship that is beneficial to all of you.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Loves Helping Families Grow and Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How Fighting with Your Partner in Front of Your Kids Can Impact Them

The Reality of Fighting with Your Partner

No matter how healthy the relationship, two people living together are eventually going to have disagreements. Parents are no exception, and the occasional squabble is to be expected. Fighting between parents becomes problematic, though, when it escalates into heightened conflict. Research indicates that high conflict parental relationships can have a negative impact on the children. Do you know how to handle your disputes in a way that is healthy for your family?

How Fighting Affects You

Whether you are physically fighting or just having a heated argument, it takes a toll on your body. Because of the well-documented fight or flight response that all humans have, your body will have certain physical reactions. Because your body will need more oxygen, your breathing rate will increase, and you may feel like you are choking or suffocating, or you may experience chest tightness and pain. The blood supply to your head may decrease, making you feel dizzy and lightheaded, and it may even blur your vision. You may experience dry mouth, nausea, and diarrhea because of increased digestive activity, and your large muscle groups may tense up, causing you to feel exhausted, with aches and pains. You might even tremble or shake.

How Your Fights Affect Your Children

When parents fight in front of their children, it negatively affects the children, too. It increases their stress hormones, disrupts the way they process emotions, hampers their cognitive performance, and increases their risk of depression. Seeing their parents fight makes children feel insecure and concerned about the stability of their family, and it can damage the relationship between the parents and children. Frequent or intense fighting creates a frightening stressful environment, and it can interfere with their normal, healthy development. Worse, parental conflict can cause long-term mental health effects. Children whose parents fight often may experience decreased cognitive performance in the long term and can limit their ability to form healthy relationships. It can lead to behavioral problems like increased aggression and delinquency and has even been linked to issues like eating disorders, substance use, and a negative outlook on life. There is extensive research to show that a high-conflict environment in childhood can lead to a host of problems in adulthood.

Mitigating the Impact of Conflict

So, what can you do to create a safe home environment for your children? People have disagreements, but it is important to manage your disputes in a way that is healthy for all involved. Start by trying not to fight in front of the children. If you find that a discussion is beginning to get heated, take a time out to regroup. Model effective problem solving strategies, and refrain from destructive practices like name-calling, insults, threats of leaving, physical aggression, giving the silent treatment, or just giving in. Rather, talk to your partner in a calm moment and agree to certain ground rules, like taking turns to talk, validating each other’s feelings and point of view, and being respectful and courteous. If you do argue in front of the children, talk about it with them. Reassure them that it is not their fault, and it is not an indication of bigger problems. Let them know you are still a strong family, and that people can love each other, even if they disagree. If you feel like you cannot control your disagreements and remain respectful, seek counseling to help you resolve your differences and find productive solutions.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Wants to Help Families Grow and Thrive

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families, and we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Everything You Need to Know About Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Making Sense of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Often called “crib death,” sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a devastating issue affecting families all over the world. This tragic and mysterious phenomenon occurs with an otherwise healthy baby unexpectedly and suddenly dies, typically during sleep. While SIDS is rare, it is still one of the top causes of death for infants under a year old. Because research is ongoing, we now have insight into the factors that can reduce or increase the risk of SIDS, and steps parents and caregivers can take to create a safer sleeping environment. Here, we look at SIDS, its potential causes, and how you can help reduce the risk for your baby.

SIDS: An Overview

SIDS typically occurs in babies less than a year old, who seem healthy, and it happens while they are sleeping. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed that SIDS could be caused by problems with the part of the infant’s brain that controls breathing and waking from sleep. Most of the time, no explanation can be found for the child’s death, but researchers have determined some factors that put babies at a higher risk of crib death. It is known that babies who sleep on their stomachs are 12.9 times more likely to die of SIDs than those who sleep on their backs. Why does sleep position make such a big difference? Babies sleeping on their stomachs are more likely to rebreathe exhaled air, leading to lower oxygen levels and a buildup of carbon dioxide, which can potentially cause suffocation. Additionally, babies sleeping on their stomachs sleep deeper, for longer stretches, are more likely to overheat, and may experience sudden drops in blood pressure. It all adds up to a higher risk of SIDS.

Why Does SIDS Happen?

It used to be thought that SIDS affected healthy babies at random, but the theory on that has changed. Now, researchers believe that multiple risk factors combine to cause a baby to die from SIDS. Even if a baby seems perfectly healthy, there may be underlying factors that put them at risk. The condition is not completely understood, but we are beginning to understand what raises the risk. In some babies, the part of the brain that is supposed to counteract dangerous breathing conditions is underdeveloped. There may also be a connection between SIDS and low levels of a particular enzyme, or the presence of certain genes. While these underlying problems do not mean the baby absolutely will die of SIDS, they can combine with other risk factors to cause a dangerous situation. While previous theories have been floated, linking SIDS to vomiting, choking, illness, or immunizations, these have been disproven.

What Are the Risk Factors for SIDS

Many of the known risk factors for SIDS can be avoided, so it is important for parents to understand them, to avoid as many as possible. In addition to stomach sleeping risk factors include:

• Brain defects
• Respiratory infections
• Low birth weight
• Premature birth, or multiples
• Family history of SIDS
• Race (the risk is twice as high for African American and Native American babies)
• Gender (males are at higher risk than females)
• A mother under 20 years of age
• Overheating
• Co-sleeping
• Unsafe or old crib
• Too-soft bedding or objects in the crib
• Using a sleep positioner or wedge
• Secondhand smoke
• The use of drugs or alcohol during pregnancy

Reducing Your Baby’s Risk of SIDS

Because the cause of SIDS is not known, the condition is not preventable. However, you can reduce your baby’s risk by being proactive. Babies should always sleep on their backs, rather than their stomachs or sides. Using a pacifier can also reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS, but make sure not to use a cord or attach the pacifier to the baby’s clothing, bedding, or a stuffed animal. Babies who sleep in the same room as their parents are at lower risk, so keep your baby close, but don’t co-sleep. Don’t let your baby get overheated, and don’t allow napping in the car seat, stroller, swing, or carrier for any longer than necessary. Stop swaddling when the baby begins to roll over, because that can increase the risk of suffocation. Put your baby to bed on a firm, flat crib mattress with a fitted sheet and no other bedding, soft toys, or stuffed animals until the first birthday. Get your baby vaccinated, and breastfeed if you can, for at least six months.

Support for Families Affected by SIDS

Losing a baby to SIDS is devastating. Aside from the pain of losing your little one, SIDS takes an emotional toll, particularly as it is mandatory in SIDS death for an investigation and autopsy to be performed. Losing a baby this way can strain the relationship between the parents and impact any other children in the family, as well. It is vital to get support, whether from a support group or through counseling, to help you cope with this loss.

Start Your Healthy, Happy Family with Center for Vasectomy Reversal

Bringing healthy babies safely into the world is a passion for Center for Vasectomy Reversal. That is why we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Introduce Your Child to a New Sibling

Introducing a New Sibling

Is there anything more special than the bond between siblings? When siblings have a good relationship, it can result in a lifelong friendship and invaluable support. Get your children’s friendship off to the right start with these tips from Center for Vasectomy Reversal on how to introduce your child to a new sibling.

Getting Ready for Baby

Telling your child about the impending arrival of a sibling should happen well before the baby is born. As a rule of thumb, it is good to tell your older child about the baby as soon as mom begins to show. In some cases, if there is morning sickness that might worry the child, for example, it might be wise to announce the news earlier. If your family is adopting or using a surrogate, it is also wise to start the conversation early. The more time your child has to adjust to the idea, the better. When you talk about the new little brother or sister, talk about the good things about having a new baby, but also let your child know that babies need a lot of help in the beginning. Talk about how much fun it will be to have a younger sibling, without overselling. Talk about what life will be like with a new baby, and help your child feel a sense of ownership when it comes to the new little one. Encourage your child to talk to your baby bump, feel when the baby kicks, and think about what it will mean to be an older sibling. It can be helpful to read age-appropriate books about babies and birth, or look into a sibling birth class at the hospital.

Making Plans for the Birth

If your older child will need to change rooms to make space for the new baby, make sure you make this transition well in advance of the birth. The same applies to any other major transitions, like potty training or moving from a crib to a bed. Make arrangements for your older child’s care while you are in the hospital, but try to arrange a visit with the new baby as quickly as possible, while you are still in the hospital. Let the child meet his or her new sibling with the baby in the bassinet, to avoid any feelings of jealousy because the baby is being held by mom or dad. Consider getting a small gift for your older child “from the baby” to make that first meeting as warm as possible. Manage your expectations about your child’s reaction; some children will be enthusiastic, and others will be unimpressed. Arrange for one parent to spend some special one on one time with your older child right after this first meeting.

The Homecoming

Once you bring the new baby home, you will need to give your older child some assistance in adjusting to the changes. As much as is possible, let the older sibling help care for the new little family member. “Helping” will mean different things, depending on the age of the older child, but you can find something for your child to do, whether it’s entertaining the baby during a diaper change, helping to push the stroller, or helping to dress or bathe the baby. If your child is not interested in helping, do not force it. Remember, bonding is a natural process and will happen gradually. Try to set aside time each day to spend with your older child, but keep the daily routine as normal as possible, including school or daycare if that’s the norm.

Helping to Manage Feelings

Sometimes, children don’t take to being an older sibling easily. Your older child may struggle with his or her new role in the family. Encourage conversation about the new baby, and be patient. If your child acts out or seems to regress, understand that this may be a way of seeking attention. Offer reassurance of your child’s special place in the family. Adjusting to the new normal may take some time, and if you are having trouble helping your child, consider asking your pediatrician for advice.

Start Your Family with Help from Center for Vasectomy Reversal

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start their healthy, happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.