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Nasal Aspirators that really Suck

Q ~ Erin in Mesquite asks: Barb, what do you think of those automatic nasal aspirators? I have seen mixed reviews but I do not have much luck with the bulb anymore.       
              
Barb ~ Battery-powered nasal aspirators quickly suck excess mucus out of your nose. While the noise can be off-putting to a younger child, it really does the job and does it quickly. I first ran out and got one when my then 4 month old baby had a respiratory infection and I just could not hold her down and use the traditional bulb effectively. My then 4 year old began to use it when he was sick. He loved the relief it brought him. But I never knew the effectiveness of them until I got a nasty sinus infection. The kind where you can’t stop blowing your nose, even though your nose is all chapped and sore, and your head and ears hurt from all the pressure. It really helped, and by having to use it on myself, I learned the most effective positions and movements to maximize the suction. They can run down batteries quickly and you will notice loss of suction power. But if you keep fresh batteries in and learn how to use it, you will love it.

Party Protocol

Q ~ Karen in Mansfield asks: Barb, How long before a child’s birthday party should I send out invitations?      
              
Barb ~ Your guests should generally receive birthday party invitations one month to three weeks in advance. Make sure to consider any party logistics though. For example, if you are renting a venue and need to have your headcount confirmed a week in advance, then make sure the invitations arrive in time to allow parents at least two weeks to make their plans and RSVP to you. While you may worry that an invitation gets lost or forgotten if sent too early, remember that families are busier than ever these days. Mail does not get opened daily, and parents may need time to arrange schedules, find care for siblings, and shop for a gift.

Market-ing Friendly Products
 
Q ~ Sylvia in Dallas asks: Barb, I thought all children's paints were nontoxic. What's the difference between traditional kid's paint and the new eco-friendly "safe" paints?      
              
Barb ~ As the consumer and the parent, you need to check every label of every paint you buy to make sure it is indeed non-toxic. Non-toxic means that a reasonable amount of a substance will not, under reasonable circumstances, cause damage to an exposed organism. Children’s ibuprofen will not likely hurt an otherwise healthy child if taken as directed, but you would not hand the child an open bottle of it and walk away. Eco-friendly, green, or environmentally friendly are used to refer to products that inflict minimal damage to the environment. For example, if flushed into bodies of water, they will not gas-off the fish that live in it. Does Green mean Non-toxic? Would you eat recycled cardboard?

Rodent Reporters

Q ~ Lorraine in Grand Prairie asks: Barb, why is Groundhog Day a holiday? Is there actually any truth to it?      
              
Barb ~ The February 2nd Holiday Groundhog Day is celebrated in the United States and Canada. According to the tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow on this day and returns to its burrow, we will experience 6 more weeks of winter. If not, then we will have an early spring. To sum it up, if it is cloudy on Feb 2, spring is springing soon, if it is sunny on this day of reckoning, winter wins. So you may ask how the rodent got involved in the first place, when the common 2-legged creature can just peek outside his window and draw the conclusion. Though the roots of the folklore go back centuries to the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc, Groundhog Day as we know it was born around 1887 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania by inventive minds at the Punxsutawney Spirit newspaper, which repeatedly ran embellished stories about the tradition. Now, crowds of 30,000-40,000 gather in the city to witness the famous whiskered weather-rat known as Punxsutawney Phil. There are other notable furry forecasters in other cities: Buckeye Chuck, Staten Island Chuck, Wiarton Willie in Ontario, General Beauregard Lee in Atlanta, and Shubenacadie Sam. How reliable are the furry forecasts? An NCDC (National Climatic Data Center) analysis shows Punxsutawney Phil's success rate at 39%. Here are some more fun facts: Groundhogs do not like being disturbed. They have a very loud reaction including whistling, squealing, barking, chattering and grinding their teeth. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) love the folklore, but accuse officials of subjecting Phil to the large and load crowds. PETA is suggesting the use of an animatronic model – a robot groundhog. William Deeley, president of the Inner Circle of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, says the animal is "being treated better than the average child in Pennsylvania."

Pain in the *Ear

Q ~ Brandy in Frisco asks: Please help my ears! My 2-year old loves to scream at the top of his lungs because it's fun. It truly does hurt my ears and those around me. How do I get him to stop? I've told him it hurts and he'll stop, but he never remembers.                     
Barb ~ I contacted the experts at Children's Medical Center Dallas and thank Crista Wetherington, Ph.D., from the Center for Pediatric Psychiatry for the answer: Kids love attention from their parents, even when it's negative. Your son is exploring his environment and trying to understand how others respond to his actions. Two-year-olds cannot take someone else's perspective very well, so explaining that the screaming hurts your ears may not be very useful for stopping the screaming. Start by paying attention to the positive things your child does-any behaviors you'd like to see increase. For example, when your son is playing quietly, or runs over to give you a hug, be sure to give attention for these things, whether by saying something out loud or stopping what you are doing to play with him and make time for that hug. When he begins screaming, ignore him and use time out if needed. Focusing on the positive will decrease the negative, so start there and you will find that you are both happier!

Discourteous in Carpool

Q ~ Barb, I was so irritated in the second grade carpool line this morning as one mom, with a scant few minutes left before classes began, pulls up to the front, gets out, opens the door and fixes her daughter’s hair by brushing and putting in a ponytail! There were at least six cars waiting, including me. I wanted badly to honk but am a new parent and did not want to draw attention to myself, especially if this ended up being someone like the wife of a board member or something. I could see the other drivers were annoyed but no one did anything, and now I am mad for not having done or said something myself because she will probably do it again. Am I over-reacting or should I have honked?                     

Barb ~ Holding up the carpool line to fix your daughters hair is indeed rude and insensitive. I think it made you even more irritated since you were already close to being late. But, I would let this incident go. I am sure there has been a time when you were running late or not quite awake or for whatever reason just not focused and made a poor decision. You don’t want to be judged on that temporary lapse in judgment, or honked at impatiently. Try to be empathetic and give her the benefit of the doubt. Remember that your children are watching and you are setting an example with everything you do. This is an opportunity to display patience and empathy, rather than judgment. If you see a pattern with this mom and it becomes clear she is being selfish and intentionally disregarding the other parents, then you should take action. Either let her know (without a crowd or audience) that her behavior is imposing on others, or speak with an administrator and ask them to address it with her.

Pull-ups vs. Diapers

Q ~ Jessica in Alvarado asks: is there any benefit to using pull-ups over diapers at night? My 4 1/2 year old had 2 accidents last night. It makes me tired. We have even cut his nighttime drinking to try to help. My water bill is going to go up at this rate! We have tons of diapers but would be willing to buy pull-ups if there is an advantage.                     

Barb ~ Hi Jessica, Most pediatricians do not expect a child to stay dry at night until the age of 5 or 6. I recommend making the move to pull-ups at night. First, it will give him the freedom to go by himself should he wake with the need to go. Having him in diapers may send confusing or mixed signals to him. A diaper is something you control while a pull-up is something he controls, and part of successful potty training involves the child taking control of their potty time. You could consider donating the diapers to a shelter or church or friend. A friend gave me one of the best parenting tips I know: For nighttime accidents, in cribs or beds, layer your mattress pads and sheets, so that you only have to strip a layer off each time rather than change the entire bed at night

Stinky Feet

Q ~ Billie in Carrollton asks, Barb, my kids are only 7 and 10 but their shoes are really stinky. What can I do to get rid of the odor without spraying chemicals on them and can I prevent them from getting like this?                     

Barb ~ Those stinky odors are bacteria, living things that keep festering and growing stronger until you end their miserable life. They live off the moisture from accumulated sweat and body oils. To get rid of the stink you have to get rid of the bacteria, and continue to keep moisture from accumulating. You want to avoid harmful chemicals, a good idea, and have a few options. Traditional remedies include misting with a vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol and water blend. I’m not a fan of this as they both have skin-drying properties. Did you know that deep-freezing kills bacteria? If you do not want to use an anti-fungal or anti-bacteria spray, pop them in a deep-freezer for at least a few hours. To keep them dry, you have a few options again. Dusting them with baking soda is great, but it does build up and get gooey when feet sweat and can become cumbersome. I recommend a charcoal product. The most convenient – and most effective I have found is made by Ever Bamboo. A 100% natural product, bamboo charcoal is a deodorizer and dehumidifier. Ever Bamboo has many conveniently shaped deodorizers, including Shoe Deodorizers. When my son takes his shoes off, he places these inside. We have been able to easily and affordably keep the stink from coming back with these. I highly recommend them.

Daycare, Preschool or Moms Day Out?

Q ~ Amanda in Mansfield asks: What is the difference between a mother's day out and a daycare and a preschool these days? Traditionally, a MDO was a once or twice a week sitting service for a few hours each day with no curriculum. Daycare was the same but all day. Preschool was just that...instruction before kids start school. But it seems many MDOs and DCs are offering curriculum as well as PSs. Is it a licensing issue at this point?                   

Barb ~ Today's programs aim to meet the needs of today's families. While it may be difficult to spot differences between the three, if you are looking at three high quality programs you will find unique characteristics. MDO programs are generally just a few hours a week, offering a break for mom and fun, interaction and activities for little ones. Daycares are normally open year round and offer longer hours to accommodate working families with a wide range of children in their care from 6 weeks to 10 years or older. Preschools have defined class ages such as PreK3 and PreK4, normally operate during the school year, and offer a curriculum to prepare the child for the structure of Kindergarten. Daycares that offer preschool type instruction exist to accommodate families that need the hours of a daycare yet want the curriculum of a preschool. Programs also compete for your business by offering more. But they must meet the same licensing and accreditation requirements. Ask to see the licensing and accreditation for any program you are considering. The moms at MomCheck know how confusing it can be "with daycares offering preschool, preschools offering child care and MDO's available just about everywhere you turn. A preschool program, whether offered by a private preschool, a licensed child care facility or an elementary school has a basic curriculum that follows state guidelines." For more information, see the comprehensive MomCheck Guide that covers the basics and breaks them down deeper.

Total Toothpaste

Q ~ Jen in Euless asks: Barb, are there some brands of toothpaste that are better than others or do they all pretty much clean the same?                 

Barb ~ Most adult toothpastes have similar ingredients with varying amounts of fluoride plus other agents to help fight decay and bacteria, sensitivity and inflamed gums. The most important ingredient is an antigingivitis agent to fight plaque. Not all toothpastes carry the seal from the American Dental Association (ADA), another major item you should look for when selecting your toothpaste. Consumer Reports performed tests on 38 brands of toothpaste in 1998. Thirty of them were rated excellent. The top rating goes to Colgate Total, which is also the brand most recommended by the FDA and others in the dental industry. What makes Colgate Total stand out in test after test? It contains the antibacterial agent Triclosan to help fight gum disease and Gantrez, which keeps the Triclosan working even between brushings. For more fun and information for the entire family, visit the American Dental Association website. To see how brands rate, see the Consumer Research website.

S’no You Know

Q ~ Laura in Mesquite asks: Barb, is it safe to eat snow?                

Barb ~ This really depends on where you are and how big your portion sizes are. It is a fact that even falling snow is dirty and probably polluted with exhaust, emissions, and Pseudomonas syringae bacteria, which is really scary-bad only if you are a bean or tomato plant. Harvard environmental professor Helen Suh Macintosh wrote, “Snow is formed by water vapor that moves in the cold air, it can stick to a tiny piece of dust and then have other water molecules attach to it, forming a crystal. Once formed, the crystal can continue to grow and can stay in the air for hours before it falls to the ground. It is during this time that the snow crystal can collect or ‘scavenge’ pollutants that are present in the air.” Still, even a little dirt – or snow – won’t hurt an otherwise healthy person. The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds that we eat bacteria all the time that are usually killed in the acidic stomach. There are no reports of otherwise healthy children becoming sick from eating small amounts of snow. Eating mega amounts of snow can dangerously lower body temperature.

Q ~ Leigh in Dallas asks: Barb, have you ever made your own ice cream? I have found some recipes that look like fun for the kids to make but I am afraid of the mess and waste.

Barb ~ MetroMom March Baremore, winner of the Ice Cream Contest at the Sate Fair, wrote to let us know she has the perfect answer: I love making homemade ice cream with my kids. It can be really easy and inexpensive even if you don't have an ice cream maker at home. One way to do that is in plastic sandwich bags. 1. ICE CREAM IN A BAGGIE: Put in a sandwich-size Zip-Loc bag and "zip" closed: 1 T sugar, 1/2 cup milk or half & half, 1/4 tsp vanilla. Put in a gallon-size Zip-Loc bag and zip closed: 2 T rock salt (baking aisle), the filled and zipped sandwich bag from above, ice cubes to fill bag about 3/4 full. Shake and roll bag over and over until frozen (about 15-20 min.) 2. ICE CREAM IN A COFFEE CAN: Chocolate Ice Cream 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup light cream 1/2 cup sugar 4 T cocoa 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/8 tsp salt Coffee Ice cream 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup light cream 2 T instant coffee granules 1/2 cup sugar 1/8 tsp salt For all varieties: In 1 lb. coffee can mix all ingredients. Seal can lid well with duct tape. Put small, sealed can inside larger 3 lb. can. Pack ice and 1 cup salt around small can. Put lid on large can and duct tape closed. Roll back & forth on a large towel (optional) for 15 minutes. Open large can and dump ice and water. Wipe small can dry and open. Stir mix, scraping sides of can. Additional ingredients (cookie crumbs, chopped nuts) can be added now. Reseal small can and place back in larger can. Repack with salt and ice. Continue rolling for 10 minutes more. Open large can and dump ice and water. Wipe small can dry and open. Enjoy! Neither of these methods involves churning so if you are expecting the really smooth creamy texture of a store bought ice cream you might want to go with an ice cream maker.

Breaking The Chain Mail

Q ~ Maricole in Fort Worth asks: Barb, my friend is always sending me ridiculous chain emails. How do these things start? 

Barb ~ It is hard to say who starts these things, though some may be intentional; others have origins in legitimate happenings. Perhaps a Hype-chondriac takes a few legitimate facts and runs with them. You may have seen the email warning us that telemarketers will have our cell numbers. This may have originated from the fact that a cell phone directory is being created for 411 uses (do not panic, you have to opt in to be included). Another recent email chain warns of the dangers of energy-saving light bulbs, suggesting that they have dangerous amounts of mercury that are released into the air, and it would cost thousands to have a hazmat crew clean up in the case one of these bulbs breaks in your home. This story snowballed out of control after a CFL bulb broke in one mother’s home. She called her local DEP agency, which did not have much experience in this, and was told having a cleanup crew come in was one option (the agency later admits this option was excessive).  The chain emails usually relate to Charity, Luck, Petition, Money, or just for the heck of setting a word record. The first probably originated in superstition and dates back to the 1800’s. You can see a wonderful study of the evolution of Chain Letters.

Receiving these from a friend is almost worst than receiving them from a stranger because you can at least block the stranger from further impositions on your time.  But don’t be gullible or afraid, you can safely delete these emails. You probably won’t break the chain and stop them from circulating, but you can be sure that AOL and Bill Gates are not tracking what you do, even if someone wrote, “I got a check” or “I saw it on CNN”.  Similarly, if it came from somebody’s good friend who is a lawyer or a preacher, it is bogus as well. The Nigerian son of a prince in Switzerland does not have $27 billion that they need to trust you with, and we can not cripple a gas company by not buying gas next Wednesday. Nobody is going to send you on a fabulous getaway, give you cars or televisions, or fat checks just because you forward an email. But if I see any of that reported on CNN, I will gladly retract.

Dinner Time Chaos

Q ~ Jennifer in Mesquite asks: Barb, My almost two year old has to be watched during all his waking hours. I pick him up on my way home from work but can barely make dinner without having to chase after him 100 times or keep him from getting hurt. It's been frozen entrees, salads or sandwiches for a while now. How can I make a real dinner and save him from himself at the same time?

Barb ~ I can certainly relate! I think your biggest challenge is keeping him interested in one project for any length of time. I can offer a few tips to try and hope that a few may work on your curious toddler. Your main goal is to keep him where you can see him. I am a big fan of baby gates. I have one in the kitchen and use it to keep the kids near as much as I use it to keep them away. If you can, involve him in what you are doing. Let him prepare something with his own ingredients; give him some dough to play with, a mixing bowl and some dry ingredients for him to "prepare." At this age my son loved water so I would fill up some measuring cups with water and food coloring and let him mix colors in some bowls. I also let him fill up the kitchen sink with some bubbles or his sea animals, or even just some measuring cups, spoons and funnels. I dedicated one shelf for toys he could play with such as plastic bowls, measuring cups, toy food, empty food containers for him to pretend play with, anything safe. He loved to scoop, so I often kept dry rice, beans, and different shaped pastas for him to sort into ice cube trays, scoop, mix, measure or funnel. Another favorite was magnets on the fridge or dishwasher. Leap Frog makes some wonderful activity games for this age that are perfect for the fridge. You can also buy magnetic sheets for your printer so you can customize a game, puzzle or activity for your son.

Product Review: Sit n Stroll

Q ~ Myha in Arlington asks: Hello, Barb! My husband and I are taking our baby (who will be 16 months) to Hawaii in August. I'm just wondering what you think about the sit'n'stroll car seat/stroller combo. I just love his regular stroller and am so used to it, but the last time we traveled, he had the carrier that you could just drop on the stroller. Now he's in a convertible car seat and I dread bring the convertible (unmatching) car seat and a stroller. Any suggestions?

Barb ~ MetroMom & expert Summer Holbrook has the answer for you! Here's Summer: Dear Myha, I am a seven-year flight attendant for a major American carrier and in that time I have seen just about every kind of seating arrangement for children and babies. The one that most amazes me is the Sit n Stroll. I always knew that I would buy the Sit n Stroll when I had a child, after seeing the ease with which other moms used it. Once my daughter was old enough for the convertible car seat, we tried to travel with that and an umbrella stroller. Bad idea- the car seat was too heavy, and with all the other luggage we had, it proved to be too much to handle. And it was too large to fit in the airplane seat. It was during that trip when I told my husband that I was buying the Sit n Stroll. My daughter and I just got back from the UK with our new Sit n Stroll. I cannot begin to tell you how much easier it was to travel with. The Sit n Stroll is light, easy to get through airport security, combines the necessary elements of a full size car seat with a basic stroller and it's safe, FAA safe. One limitation of the Sit n Stroll is the flexibility of the stroller function. The Sit n Stroll is low to the ground and not designed for off road use. Therefore, in a beach and nature trail heavy vacation spot like Hawaii, the Sit n Stroll could come up short. But for a vacation like Hawaii I suggest bringing a frame baby carrier. With all the trails and beaches the carrier is what you will end up using. However, in an airport or urban environment, no other product comes close. If your baby is not yet walking, place her/him in the Sit n Stroll as soon as you get out of your car at the airport parking lot. The baby should not have to come out of the sit n stroll until you get to security. This frees up your arms for other things, like bags. I recommend that in addition to the Sit and Stroll you also take an umbrella stroller, for off road adventures or for long days out where you will not be traveling in a car. As for the security line, it takes about 10 seconds or less to fold the Sit n Stroll. Place it upside down on the security belt, so it will fit thought the machine better. The Sit n Stroll will fit down the aisle of first class but not coach. Also, I recommend asking the flight attendant for a seat belt extension for your car seat, it makes it fit easer. The Sit n Stroll comes with LATCH system belts and this comes in very handy for longer car trips. The Sit n Stroll also fits in the car by using the seat belt; this is great for taxi rides or cars without LATCH systems. When you get to the restaurant the Sit n Stroll becomes a booster chair, which is great for places without highchairs. Myha, in closing, I highly recommend the Sit n Stroll for any vacation involving air travel and involving a child 5 to 40 lbs. However, I would also recommend you pack a frame baby carrier for your trip for use on the beaches and any other off-road adventures. Fly smart, fly safe and have fun! Summer Holbrook Flight Attendant, Southwest Airlines World wide explorer

Gas (Prices) Relief

Q ~ Julie in Denton asks: Barb, Just when I think gas prices can't get any higher, they go up again! Is there any relief in sight and any possible way to save some money on gas?

Barb ~ Gas prices are not projected to decrease significantly any time soon. There are definite ways to improve your gas mileage and make each fill up last longer. Try these tips and you will see an immediate difference. -Stay in shape. Keep your car well maintained and make sure your tires are properly inflated. A car that has to work harder burns more gas. Using good engine oil can improve mileage by as much as 12%. A clogged air filter can decrease your mileage by up to 10%. -Don't speed. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas. The best way to improve fuel economy by as much as 2 to 3 miles per gallon is to accelerate slowly and to brake over a longer distance. Don't rest your foot on the pedal, try coasting when possible. -Get rid of the weight. Those bags of old baby things that you have been meaning to drop off are reducing your mileage by up to 2%. Also remove luggage racks and heavy accessories. -Avoid excessive idling; you get 0 miles per gallon while idling. Place your car in neutral, park or even turn it off if you are idling more than a few minutes. - Avoid stop and go traffic when possible. -Use cruise control on the highway to help you maintain a constant speed. - Plan and consolidate your travels. - Don't go out of your way to save a few pennies on gas. If you go a couple of miles out of your way to save 5 cents per gallon, on a 10 gallon fill up you save 50 cents. The American Automobile Association says that, on average, it costs 52.2 cents to drive one mile. - Don't top off your tank and be sure your gas cap is tight.

Don't Bug Me

Q ~ Anonymous asks: I have a ten year old and a two year old and am worried about mosquitoes. Is there one repellent that I can use on both of them, one that is safer than the other or most effective?

Barb ~ It would be very difficult for me to recommend one product as each product works differently. Things to consider in choosing a good repellent is the setting in which it will be used (dinner on the patio or hike in the woods); the individual using it, including how much they perspire; and personal preferences. A common ingredient in repellents, the Chemical DEET is the most effective, safe when used as directed and has been studied the longest - over 60 years. Concentrations are directly related to how often you need to reapply. However it does need to be washed off when you come indoors and can ruin some clothing and other materials. There are some synthetic alternatives that are as effective but may not work for everyone. There are also some repellents made from natural ingredients that feel better on the skin, and smell better but are only effective for short periods of time. To complicate your decision further, the American Academy of Pediatrics, CDC, and World Health Organization all make different recommendations. You will need to make the choice that is best for you. I highly recommend reading Consumer Research's Insect Repellent Consumer Report. This report breaks down the different types of repellents, which settings they are best used in, and reviews the brands making them. You may have to purchase more than one repellant this summer. Keep in mind you should use what works in each situation - you do not need the "Deep Woods" concentration if you are only playing on the lawn, but you do need to use the minimum recommendation.

Picky Eater

Q ~ Teena in Mansfield asks: Any ideas to get a picky eater to eat fruits and vegetables? All my little one eats is crackers, chicken nuggets, pizza, and pasta. Thanks!

Barb ~ The overwhelming majority of parenting resources will advise you to keep offering foods and one day your child will surprise you and try something new. I agree, as it is never worth it to get into a struggle over food. As an added measure, I also recommend trickery to bridge the nutritional gap. Let's face it, the kid needs nutrition to grow and think. My most covert method is to blend in some green stuff into your pasta sauce or yellow and orange stuff into your mac and cheese sauce - carrots and butternut squash go completely undetected. Cube some up and keep a bag in the freezer so you can throw into the water used for cooking then mash it up with a fork. Grate zucchini over pasta or pizza, other grated veggies work great in the breading of those nuggets. Mash some fruits into a PB&J, the jelly hides everything! Make it fun! Give your food a face - there are some great cookbooks for kids that show you how to jazz things up. Sprinkle cinnamon onto fresh fruits. Use bowls for dipping sauces and offer veggie sticks for dipping. Set an example by eating these things yourself. Encourage your child, but do not push. Try to empathize; there must be some things that you do not like and would not appreciate being made to eat. Finally, on behalf of all picky eaters out there, I plead with you to not make too big a deal out of it. If your children can find one fruit and one veggie that they like, they will be okay, and they will still make it into adulthood.

Hands-Free But No Aching Back

Q ~ Aching Back in Dallas asks: Can you recommend a good carrier for a large 10 month old? What are the pros and cons of the different kinds? I need to truly keep hands free but have been carrying my baby around for hours each day. Thanks!

Barb ~ You have three basic options when shopping for a child carrier: The Sling, a Backpack, and a Hip Carrier. The sling that worked so well for your infant can be used to carry an older child in a variety of positions. Great for light use, they are easy to wash and wear, come in a gazillion colors and patterns, but generally lack lumbar support and only have minor adjustment capabilities. Backpack carriers are great for medium to heavy use. They have many comfort features for passenger and chauffeur, lots of storage pockets and many adjustments so mom and dad can both use it. It is great for a hike or a walk, but I would not recommend for every day indoor use simply because it limits eye contact and smooch-accessibility. Hip Carriers keep your child by your side, where you would normally carry them. They are a great upgrade from the front carriers, and some brands can hold children up to 35 pounds. These are my favorite as they allow me to be truly hands free, but keep my baby snuggled by my side, where she can share smiles, hugs and what I believe are practice kisses. This is what I recommend for you since you are using it for extended periods indoors. The most amazing hip carrier I have used to date is the PortaMEe. The Mercedes of carriers, this is the ultimate combination of convenience, function, comfort and fashion. It is very easy to put on, and not only keeps your offspring close to you, but your keys, wallet, phone, sunglasses, mp3 player, camera and even a bottle or sippy cup (the bottle holder is insulated)! It's like Batman's utility belt! Comfort features include a gel padded shoulder strap and orthopedic lumbar support. Now that I have finally lost most of the baby weight and can fit in my cute clothes again, I want a "hip" hip carrier and the PortaMEe is a fashion statement with its leather trim, warm colors and plush fabric. We spoke with the nice people of PortaMEe and they generously offered Metroplex Baby Savings Card Holders $20 off the purchase of a PortaMEe carrier

Mama Juggling Act

Q ~ Anonymous asks: How does one juggle the responsibilities of work, marriage and motherhood? I'm working full time, and I feel overwhelmed, spread thin and down right exhausted.

Barb ~ I once heard someone say that you can have a family and a career; you just can't have them at the same time. Pretty unreasonable considering many of us do not have a choice. We have heard this question numerous times and as working moms ourselves, sought out an answer by hosting a MetroMoms event this past winter about Balancing Work and Motherhood. It is there that I learned wonderful advice from our speaker, Dr. Lawana Gladney. Here are some excerpts from Dr. Lawana Gladney's book "You Can't Be Sick I Have to Work: 50 Tips to Emotional Wellness for Working Mothers." (copyrighted, Dr. Lawana S. Gladney 2007). Lose the Guilt: This emotion alone can weigh you down. It is like an invisible weight that tugs at your heart. Understand that guilt comes along with being a mother. We can't be everywhere, do it all, and control all situations. Organize Your Day: There is something to be said for organization. Things that are organized can flow more naturally and save a tremendous amount of time. Know what things that you have scheduled at work and home so that you won't find yourself being overwhelmed by time eaters. Set Your Boundaries: It is important that you let your manager, boss, co-workers know what your boundaries are. Your boundaries should be clearly established so that others know what you can and cannot do. Have the courage to stay within your set boundaries and say no. Prioritize your life: If you were asked to name the top three things that are important to you, I would be willing to assure you that family would be number 1 or number 2 on the list. If that is the case, just how much time are you spending on your family or your other top priorities? It is likely that your time is not aligned with your priorities. Learn how to conscientiously allot time to the things that are of the greatest value to you and make you the happiest. Want more great tips? Visit renowned speaker and author Dr. Lawana Gladney's website www.emotionalwellnessinc.com.

Scratch & Hit

Q ~ Mary in Grand Prairie asks: My 13 month old son has recently started scratching and hitting people when he doesn't get his way. I try not to let him and tell him no in a strong voice. He however ignores me and does as he pleases. How do I teach him not to be so mean?

Barb ~ This common misbehavior is displayed when words don't come easily and hitting may seem like the only way preverbal children can express their frustrations. But this does not mean your child is a bully, or that you are a bad parent. It is simply a form of communication. I recommend reading "THE HAPPIEST TODDLER ON THE BLOCK" by Dr. Harvey Karp. A quick read, it explains how this behavior is normal, and once you understand why it is happening, it becomes very simple to put an end to it. Until you get to a bookstore, here are some tips to deal with the hitting and scratching: 1) Communicate. Let your child know that you understand how he is feeling but this is not appropriate behavior. The word "no" alone is not enough because it loses meaning. Say "no hit," or "soft touch" and show a soft touch. 2) Redirect. Find something to redirect attention to, something to help him communicate better or to distract him from the frustration. Or remove him from the situation. 3) Be Calm. An over-reaction may be amusing to your son, enough so that he will try to solicit the reaction again. Reprimand in a firm voice but do not try to punish. 4) Praise. Reward your son when you catch him being nice; praise him for the positive behaviors.

Kiddie Haircuts

Q ~ Sarah in Dallas asks: Hi, Barb! Can you recommend a good place to get my baby's hair cut? I was recently out of town and took my baby for his first haircut then, but now that I'm home, I need to find a place here that doesn't cost an arm and a leg and that caters to children.

Barb ~ Places that cater to children are wonderful for the nervous tot. They typically have videos, games, and fun chairs for the children to keep them distracted while getting their hair cut. They usually accept walk-ins, but I recommend making a reservation or going during an off-peak time (during school hours) to avoid long waits. A haircut can cost between $12-15, with an optional shampoo adding a couple of bucks to the bill. They are all pretty competitive in price. Some, such as Cool Cuts 4 Kids, offer a frequent user club card that allows you to rack up discounts after repeat visits. Savings Tip: We like Kids B Kids with locations in Dallas and Plano. Your first haircut is $10.99. Regular cuts are $14, with an additional $2 for shampoos. Kids B Kids offers $3 off each haircut (excluding bang trims) when you present the Metroplex Baby Savings Card! Once your child is comfortable with haircuts, ask your hairdresser if they can do your child's cut with yours. Many charge about $10-15, plus you save on gas and time spent traveling to two places.

An Aspirator For All

Q ~ Carla in Arlington asks: I'm a first-time mom and really freaked by the bulb aspirator that the hospital gave us. It looks like it would hurt my baby. What do you think, and can you recommend anything else?

Barb ~ I am so glad you asked this Carla, because I recently had a conversation with one of our MetroMoms about aspirators! I like the Bebe Sounds nasal aspirator, but it did not work for MetroMom Carey (mother of twins), who recommends the Nosefrida. Here's what Carey has to say about the Nosefrida - "Well, it is probably the grossest thing you will ever do, but it works amazingly. As everyone knows the bulbs can sometimes be hard to use with babies as you have to keep on squeezing to get everything out. With the nosefrida, you basically "suck" the snot right out. Gross.. I know. But you can control how much pressure you use to suction and you don't have to worry about stabbing them with the end of the bulb. the nosefrida has a rounded edge that you don't really have to stick in their nose, just in the front part (of course it actually won't go in any further anyway). It works like a little vacuum to get the mucus out. note: you do need to add saline as well as turn the tube around their nostril till you hear the vacuuming sound as you suck. For those of you who are still grossed out, let me tell you that there is a filter in the unit so you can't get the mucus in your mouth. Also, after you pull the first big glob of gook out of your childs nose with one large suck instead of 7 or 8 with the bulb you will be sold. I just finished a cold with my daughter and it went much easier for her as I could keep her relatively clean. In fact, the only time she had a problem was when my husband had to clean her nose and he tried to use the bulb instead. And please understand, your baby will probably cry. After all it is an invasion to her little nose. But afterwards, when they take that clean breath and smile at you. it's worth it. It also draws lots of fun attention when you use it in public :-) There are some instances when the nosefrida isn't the best choice so I still have my bulbs handy (when it is dried and on the front of the nose), but for most situations (best ones are those gooey ones) it is the absolute best product. I actually have 2 so I don't have to go and find one."

"Friends" Who Won't Discipline Chapter Two

Q ~ Anonymous in Frisco asks: Hi Barb! I have a girlfriend that I simply adore. Sometimes we exchange kiddos to let them play and give each of us a much needed break since we are both stay at home Moms. The problem is when her daughter is at my house she doesn't follow our rules. (The offending actions are usually slamming doors in people's faces, screaming, kicking, etc.) When I correct her she just looks at me and does it again. I don't feel comfortable putting someone else's child in time out. I usually tell her if she keeps acting like that I will have to call her Mom and send her home. What is the correct way to handle this?

Barb ~ In the past I have confronted a Mom friend about her child who was aggressively hurting my child. Unfortunately she took her child's side and our friendship has been strained ever since. Since I love this other Mom friend so much I feel like I need to address the problem with her daughter while she is at my house. Any advice? Barb says: You are right to be so cautious- protective mamas can be prejudiced. Unfortunately, they are not doing their children any favors or helping them prepare for the school environment, where they will have to follow rules and be held accountable. I fear that if you only address the problem with the child then mom friend will get upset that you disciplined her child. I suggest you try to handle this as objectively as possible with mom friend first. You could try saying "I am sure we have some different household rules and I do expect my child to respect yours. Would you like to agree on ways we can establish respect for each other's rules?" Or, "the kids will undoubtedly misbehave at one point or another, let's set some boundaries we can both feel comfortable with." Let her know you would then like for the both of you to sit with the kids all together and explain to them the rules, expectations, and consequences. I am sure you both want the arrangement to work so you each can get a much-needed break. Relying on each other was a resourceful strategy. All plans can be fine-tuned and improved on. My hope is that you are able to come across as wanting to make the arrangement as easy on each other as possible.

Toddler Gravity Test

Q ~ Lauren in Grand Prairie asks: My 9 month old keeps throwing things out of his stroller or highchair and I am tired of picking them up, cleaning them off and handing them back just to see him throw them again. My husband says he is testing the laws of physics and I know he is too young to discipline or understand. Any suggestions on sparing me this trouble?

Barb ~ Your husband is correct. Your child is actually conducting scientific experiments. He wants to be able to predict with 100% accuracy what will happen with each thing he drops. How high will it bounce? How far will it roll? How funny is mommy's reaction? I can understand that it does become exhausting for you though and your question gave me reason to test a product I first saw a year ago at Everything Babyfest. It is called the Take-Along Tether and was invented by a mom. One end secures the cup, bottle or other item while the other end attaches to the highchair, stroller, shopping cart, or car seat. It is brilliant. Imagine a bungee. Your son can still see "what happens if," yet the item never hits the ground. And mommy's reaction is much more pleasant! Savings Tip: Parent Pardners offers a discount to Metroplex Baby Savings Card holders when you purchase two Take-Along Tethers.

Annoying Godmother

Q ~ Sophia in Dallas asks: My son's godmother constantly updates me on her social schedule - where she is going, with whom, and how busy she is. Frankly I couldn't care less. I ignore her constant emails but would love to tell her - in a nice way - to stop "updating me." Any suggestions on the best way to tell her to cut it out?

Barb ~ Sophia, You say with forthright that you could not care less and already ignore her emails, so she has not picked up on your non-verbal signs. If you find you cannot avoid spending time with her or being in the same space as her, then let her know that you feel the conversation always seems to turn to her social life and you would love the opportunity to discuss other topics with her. Try changing the topic and asking her how she feels about other things, like the last contestant to be kicked off the latest reality show.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Camping

Q ~ Robin in Coppell: We are going camping for the first time with our 5 year old. Can you recommend anything to make the experience family friendly?

Barb ~ The two most important comforts of camping for my family is where we sleep and where we "go." I'm not saying who, but there is at least one member of my family who has bathroom anxiety. Everything has to be just right before she can "go." Privacy, comfort, and convenience are essential, but not easy to come by while camping. Fortunately, I have found the perfect camping convenience, and we never have to go in a Port-A-Potty again. The PETT Toilet System is a portable potty that comes with or without a private shelter. It is lightweight and easy to set up. It utilizes a special drop-in bag that you dispose of so you avoid that special Port-A-Potty scent and it is easy to keep clean. Item: PETT Toilet System with Shelter Best Price Found: $239 with shelter; $76 without; but who can put a price on not having to use a Port-A-Potty? Purchased from: TRD Parts 4 U Savings Tip: Not just for camping, use toilet as a portable potty while potty training! I can't stand dirt tracked into my tent any more than I can stand sleeping on rocks under my tent! Solution: Kamp-Rite's Tent Cot. It's like a foam sleeping mat that is raised off the ground and has a tent cover. It weighs less than my stroller and is easier to open and set up - no pounding stakes into the ground, searching for the softest spot to set up, or dragging dirt in every time you need to get into your tent. It comes in two sizes for a single person or for a couple. Item: Kamp-Rite's Tent Cot Best Price Found: One-person: $169; Two-person: $269 Purchased from: TRD Parts 4 U

Product Review: Miracle Blanket

Q ~ Jennifer in Dallas: A speaker at your Destination event mentioned the Miracle Blanket. Have you tried it and what do you think?

Barb ~ Miracle Blankets Made A Believer Out Of Me And A Sleeping Angel Out Of My Baby! Here's the low-down: Item: The Miracle Blanket Cost: it's priceless but you can find it for $30 Purchased from: The Nesting Place Savings Tip: Metroplex Baby Savings Card holders holders receive 10% off I wish I had swaddled my first baby. It would have saved me from hours of crying. I was prepared with my second though, having practiced swaddling with a doll before the baby came. When the nurses first handed me my little bundle, I stared in amazement at how beautifully snug and tight they had swaddled her and had them show me their technique. Once I got her home, all it took was swaddling and she immediately settled in for hours of sleep. Luckily those nurses gave me two hospital blankets because she soon outgrew hers. After outgrowing the hospital ones, and the custom made extra large ones, sleep came no more. She would work her hands out, they would search for something to wrap around and would settle on her face. She would wake up screaming at the facial invasion. I tried tying a ribbon around her blanket to secure it. I tried three different "swaddlers." She was getting too strong and I was getting tired. I was pleading my case to Kay, nurse, educator, and owner of The Nesting Place, and she immediately told me about The Miracle Blanket. She even gave me a product demonstration and helped me practice until I felt comfortable using it. Guess what? (Cue the doves, bright light and trumpets) Baby slept all night again! This blanket really is nothing short of a miracle. Alas baby girl began rolling over and it was not safe to swaddle any longer. I gave the Miracle Blankets to a friend whose three month old was only happy if he was latched on to her and in her arms. I called her the next morning and was not surprised to hear her say, "The Miracle Blanket is a miracle!"

Green Potatoes

Q ~ Amy from Addison: Please answer this for my husband - what are the green spots that show up on potatoes and do they mean that a potato is bad??

Barb ~ The green is actually chlorophyll but its presence should serve as a warning that the tater is troubled. A nerve toxin, solanine, is produced in the green of the potato. It is actually the spuds natural defense system against insects. In large amounts, it can cause symptoms that range from headaches to paralysis of the central nervous system. An occasional greenish chip will not hurt you, but do not serve a potato if it has any green spots. Still, you would have to eat nearly 5 pounds before you would feel any effects.

Sick To School

Q ~ Sarah in Fort Worth asks: Today my daughter told me that her classmate's nose was so runny and gross that it made my daughter want to throw up. Why do parents send their kids to school when they are sick?

Barb ~ It is exasperating- parents who treat school as a private day care and leave an obviously sick child there to convenience themselves. Don't try to fake us out by drugging your child to mask the symptoms- the medicine wears off early enough to expose your plan, with every cough and sneeze propelling communicable microorganisms from the cesspool that is your child's nose. Most annoying is the parent who innocently exclaims "oh, it's just allergies," while wiping away avocado-green glow-in-the-dark snot off the child's face. Don't get me wrong, I am the first to send my child over to play with the chicken-poxed neighbor or the cousins with colds. Building up my son's immunity is part of my job. Resistance to infection develops only after exposure to a multitude of germs. But there are certain things I would rather you not send home to me or my infant. A cold lasts 7-10 days and the average child has 6-10 colds a year. I am not great at math, but that's a lot of missed school. So for the community-conscious parents who wonder when to keep kids home, I have spoken with my favorite doctor and dad of two. He advises to always keep a child home if she has any of the following: a fever of 101 or greater, has vomitted two or more times, diarrhea, coughing (coughing spreads infection), a spreading rash or is lethargic. When the child has been free of these for 24 hours, it is safe to send her back to school. So a little runny nose is not a big deal without any of the above symptoms. The most important thing you can do to prevent the spread of illness is teach your child proper hand washing, to cough into their sleeve, and to use a disposable tissue to wipe their nose.

HOV Baby

Q ~ Anonymous asks: If my infant and I are in the car together, can we drive in the HOV lane?

Barb ~ The answer is yes, you may utilize the HOV lane if you have an infant with you. There is no age restriction; however, you may not use it if the baby is still hitching a ride in your uterus. Commuters on average save one minute of travel time per mile of HOV lane. HOV lanes are designed for cars, buses & motorcycles with two or more persons. Their purpose is to encourage people who would normally drive in separate vehicles to drive in the same vehicle. Some may argue that the HOV rule should state "two or more passengers of driving age are eligible to use the lane," but they probably never rode in a car, during rush hour, with a sleepy, hungry, cranky, and poopy child.

Motivating Dad For Chores

Q ~ Carrie in Burleson asks: How can I get my husband to take more initiative in helping around the house? I always have to ask him to do stuff.

Barb ~ The most important thing to remember is that while women are raised to accept the emotional responsibility of providing care for others, men, traditionally, are not. For the most part, today's husband and father are much more sensitive to this gender paradox and are anxious to take equal part in taking care of home and family. For these balance-seeking men, the only "issue" may lie in clear communication on your part. You can gain some insight into your husband's expectations by looking at the role of his mother in the family. How did his parents share responsibilities? Is he willing to help when you ask him? Now for the big questions: Are you a control freak? Did you assume responsibility for these tasks yourself, thereby sending the message of "I got it, don't get up?" Do you allow him to help in his own way, appreciating that there is more than one way (specifically, your way) of doing things? Are there entire areas of responsibility that could be transferred to your husband, such as being responsible for emptying the dishwasher or getting the kids dressed for bed? I don't think I will be offending anyone by saying that men are not great at guessing what we are thinking. You need to let him know exactly what you need help with from the get-go. You can avoid having to ask him by assigning tasks that he will regularly be responsible for. This could be as easy as keeping a list on the refrigerator. For those of us with less than anxious helpers, a gentle reminder that the more time and energy you spend on doing all the work, the less time you have for him may help. If you still find yourself doing it all, perhaps you could just sacrifice some of your load, such as his laundry? Good luck!

Overbearing Mother

Q ~ Cassie in Bedford asks: I'm a new mom and need serious help dealing with my mother. I've been home from the hospital for two weeks. My mother drops by 4-5 times a day. She claims to be the authority on everything from feeding to sleep to temperament. I don't want to seem ungrateful. I know she's trying to help but how can I kindly explain that I need some space to bond with our baby and figure some things out on my own?

Barb ~ I think many new moms have probably found themselves in the presence of a mother or mother-in-law that is so highly self-regarded as a parenting authority, it is a shocker the entire medical community en mass neglects to award her with an honorary degree. They do mean well, of course, but things have changed and your parenting goals may differ from hers when she became a new parent. I would put it to her just like you did here. Let her know how much you appreciate her help but that you would really like some time alone to bond with the baby, and that would you like to develop your own routine. I can't promise it won't offend her or lead her to declare you as the most ungrateful selfish daughter that ever walked the earth, but I can promise that she will not stay mad long. She does after all, do everything out of her love for you.

Teething Relief

Q ~ Jenn in Frisco asks: Have you heard of anything to help with teething? My husband mentioned some kinds of drops or natural tablet. We have the teething rings and all that, and I've heard Orajel is pretty worthless since the saliva washes it right off....and my son is NOT a fan of the Orajel. Thanks!

Barb ~ I would rather go through labor again than teething! As one children's dentist tells us, teething is teething and there is very little we can do. I don't want to scare new parents; some children do not seem bothered by teething. But for others, it can make them uncomfortable, cranky, and at times miserable. There are a few things that may temporarily relieve the pain. -Cold teething rings are popular. Make sure to inspect them for tears or breaks before each use. - Many Parents agree Hylands Teething tablets are wonderful but check with you pediatrician before giving baby any products. http://hylandsteething.com/. - Gentle Naturals teething drops also seem to be popular among parents: http://www.gentlenaturals.com/products/teething.cfm. Both sites have a store locator. -Tylenol helps but once baby is 6 months you get the okay to use Motrin which works better because it also reduces swelling. - There are many teethers on the market that offer a massaging texture for baby to chew on, one of our favorites, Raz-Berry is shaped like a pacifier and offers more massaging surface area: http://razbaby.com/. You can also try freezing a damp washcloth for him to chew on, or giving him a clean finger to bite on. My son loved small ice chips and they instantly calmed him. But please, no Jack Daniels - no matter how many times you hear "you turned out okay." We just don't know how much is safe so it is best to avoid it. Orajel is not recommended because it is swallowed and in the process it numbs the back of the throat which becomes a problem if there is a lot of drool. It becomes hard to swallow that drool and may make baby gag. As difficult as it seems now, remember that this too shall pass and I promise, if you do not remember your teeth coming in, neither will your baby.

"Friends" Who Won't Discipline Chapter One

Q ~ Susan in Dallas asks: A friend of mine and I have our two year olds in the same gym class. Her son is very aggressive and has pushed my son down several times. I've made comments out loud like "watch out," and "be careful," but she has not once done anything to correct her son's behavior. I'm not one for public confrontations, and I'm pretty sure that if I say something to her she would throw a fit and say "boys will be boys." How can I handle this situation to both protect my son and keep my friendship intact?

Barb ~ I can empathize with you Susan, and I think many other parents can as well. I was in the same situation, and because I did nothing, my son eventually developed a case of major anxiety whenever he knew he was seeing the aggressive child. By doing nothing, I sent the message that he had to take it; there was nothing he could do to prevent it and there would not be any consequences. Consider what message your inaction is sending to your son, and don't waste any more time. He is only two and right now he trusts you to make sure he does not get hurt and to teach him how to handle situations. If he were older, wouldn't you expect him to say "Hey, that's not right, if you don't stop being rough I won't play with you anymore?" How would you expect him to handle it if he could? You have to show him how you would want him to handle the situation. If you want to avoid a confrontation, talk to the gym teacher or owner and ask them to address the aggressive behavior without bringing you into it. But if that does not resolve the problem, then put your son ahead of your friendship. Be direct and let her know that you do not expect her to change her parenting and you hope the situation does not affect your friendship, but she cannot expect you to stay in a situation that makes you and your son uncomfortable. Don't be afraid of confrontation, grow a pair and show your son that if you can do it, he can too. (I mean that in an encouraging, Mel Gibson sporting blue war paint and wielding a big sword Braveheart kind of way). Good Luck and I hope you update all of us on how it turns out!

Money-Saving Tips

Q ~ Stephanie in Fort Worth asks: I became a stay at home mom after having our second child and we are struggling without my income. Do you have some tips on how I can save money?

Barb ~ First take inventory around your home and identify the things that you can live without, and the things that you can reduce spending on. Get the family on board. To do this you first have to differentiate between Wants and Needs. I know you really may need caffeine but a $7 designer latte is definitely a want. To reduce your spending you need to shop around. Shop around for better insurance rates and utilities. While on the topic of utilities; having 927 cable channels is a bit overindulgent. And you really do not need all the extras on your phone line like call forwarding or caller id. Identify ways to reduce your energy bills. For example, turn off the lights when not in the room, use compact fluorescent bulbs, adjust the temperature before leaving the house or going to bed, unplug appliances and electronics not in use, plant shade trees if possible. Save on groceries by comparison shopping. Some store brands are of the same quality as national brands but are a fraction of the price, even when you have a coupon for the national brands. Compare labels and quantities. Did you know that bleach is bleach? All brands of bleach have the same ingredient yet some national brands are double the price of store brands. Shop efficiently by planning a week's worth of meals with common ingredients to reduce waste. Make your own baby food. Make justifying your purchases a habit. By keeping a spreadsheet of where your money goes you will be able to recognize areas where you can start saving. You can save on gas too. Group your errands and plan an efficient route, don't top off your tank (it really just goes to waste), park in the shade (a hot car evaporates gas). Good luck and make sure to share your creative tips!

Product Review: Video & Digital Monitor

Q ~ Cathleen in Plano asks: Do you have a recommendation for a good video AND audio baby monitor? I can't seem to find one that is actually good video and also the audio works well with it. Thanks!

Barb ~ There's a reason you are having such a hard time finding a good video and audio monitor, and you are not alone. These products are criticized more than Britney's parenting skills. Many baby monitors are hit-and-miss and reviewers either love 'em or hate 'em. Consumer Reports refused to recommend any video baby monitors because their performance was so erratic. Depending on the monitor's frequency and the other appliances, electronics, and even fluorescent lights in and around your home, you may encounter interference or static with the same monitor that works perfectly in another home. Experts say there's really no way to tell unless you actually try a baby monitor in your house, so check the return policy of your store and save your packaging and receipt. By the way, while you are trying out the monitors, also make a call on the cordless phone, and make sure you can access the internet over your wireless network. In my opinion, a re-chargeable unit is a must, and it needs to be portable so I can walk around with it. A belt clip is great to keep your hands free. Not knowing what extra features you are looking for, I recommend you try these: The Summer Infant Hand Held video monitors (these receive the least amount of complaints and criticisms) and the Graco imonitor TM (the newest version boasts a great range, and it has a lot of neat features including a camera that swivels and a receiver that flips closed to protect the screen). Good luck, and please send me an update when you find a video monitor that works for you!

Don't Waste Your Money

Q ~ Ricky in Frisco asks: Of all the baby products out there, what do you think is the biggest waste of money?

Barb ~ Good question Ricky! I am often seen in various stores shaking my head in overstated irritation at incredibly brainless inventions - many of which I purchased after being led to believe that they were a must for good parenting. The number one wasteful product I somehow came to believe I could not live without: The Pacifier Rinser. Ever drop your pacifier miles from the nearest sink? These are marketed as a solution to this predicament, a portable pacifier rinsing "system." You just fill it with water and a few drops of mouthwash before you leave the house, and store it in your diaper bag. When your child's pacifier hits the floor, no need to panic, just spray the pacifier clean. Here is why this makes #1 on my list of biggest money-wasters: Would it be just too easy to pack an extra pacifier? When you consider the size of this thing, you could actually pack two extra pacifiers, and for the price, you could buy another 2 pacifiers. I have yet to conduct a scientific study, but I can assume a minty mist does not have the cleaning effect of a steady stream of water. Also, I am pretty sure that, in my most sleep-deprived state, I can retrieve with one hand a back-up pacifier from my bag in less time, with less effort, and with no incidence of finger-cramping.