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Does your baby have red spots or a rash? This is what it could be.
Skin rashes are common in babies and toddlers. Sometimes it's a sign of a childhood illness or allergy, but sometimes it's also harmless and there's nothing you can do about it. Does your little one suffer from red spots or a rash and are you curious what it could be? Read more below about what it could be and what you can do about it. Baby acne What is it? Between 0-8 months, many babies get small pimples on their face. It usually takes a few weeks or months before everything is gone. It's not contagious, doesn't itch and usually goes away on its own. How does it develop? It's not entirely clear how the pimples develop, but it's thought to be related to (male) hormones from the mother that stimulate the baby's sebaceous glands. Hormones are passed to the baby through the umbilical cord and can remain in your baby's system for a while. What to do? Leave the skin alone as much as possible. Keep the skin clean with lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free body wash. Don't use greasy products or products with fragrance, as these can actually clog the pores. Diaper rash What is it? Diaper rash is common. You recognize it by the open, moist and red spots that develop in your baby's diaper area. How does it develop? Diaper rash occurs from wearing a diaper: the urine and feces in the diaper cause a change in the pH value of your baby's skin. Combined with the warm, humid environment of the diaper, this can lead to weak and irritated skin. What to do? Although this rash is annoying, fortunately there is a solution for it: zinc cream. A diaper cream with zinc oxide helps protect, cool and heal the skin. To prevent diaper rash, it's best to change the diaper immediately after urination or defecation, and keep the skin as clean and dry as possible at all times, a baby powder after changes can definitely help with prevention too. Also read here the tips for diaper rash from dermatologist Elodie Mendels. Heat rash What is it? Heat or heat rash is also called milaria in the medical world. It especially occurs during summer in babies and young children, on areas where the skin is directly exposed to the sun (think: face, neck) or where there is little air circulation and much friction such as the buttocks, groin or armpits. It itches and causes a prickling sensation. How does it develop? The rash develops because the heat and perspiration clog the sweat gland and the sweat cannot be discharged. Especially in young babies, these glands are sometimes not fully developed. What to do? The bumps will go away on their own once your baby is no longer so warm. In the meantime, you can apply a cold washcloth to the spots to provide cooling. To prevent it, you can dress your child lightly, provide plenty of fresh air and cooling on warm days and sit in the shade. Warm irritated spots can be treated with a zinc cream for cooling. Eczema What is it? About one in ten babies suffer from it: eczema. It's an inflammatory reaction of the skin and you recognize it by flaking, crusts, bumps, cracks or blisters and dry and itchy skin. It's a hereditary condition and is not contagious. In babies, it often appears on the cheeks, chin, elbows, knees, stomach and back. How does it develop? The skin's protective layer doesn't work as well, which means the skin easily loses moisture from within and is at the same time vulnerable to external influences. Additionally, the skin's immune response is too active, causing inflammation in the skin. What to do? Try not to let your child scratch the eczema as this makes it worse. Cut fingernails short and possibly put a mitten or sock over the hands. Water also dries out the skin, so don't wash your child too often or for too long and use a mild body wash or nourishing bath oil. Also don't forget to apply a rich cream to dry spots for extra hydration. And dress your child lightly and in light natural fabrics such as cotton and silk. Childhood illnesses with spots If your child is really sick and develops red spots, it's possible that he or she has caught a childhood illness. Who doesn't know them: chickenpox. Probably one of the most well-known childhood illnesses, almost every child has had them. This disease usually occurs in kids aged 1 to 8 years old and often develops in winter or early spring. You can recognize it by spots all over the body (also in the mouth and hair) that later become blisters, and a child that is fussy and has a fever. It usually goes away within 10 days and although there is no medicine for chickenpox, you can relieve the itching by applying zinc ointment to the blisters. Fifth disease is a contagious spotted disease that can occur in babies, older children and adults. It's caused by the Parvo B19 virus and spreads through moisture particles in the air. You recognize this illness by red spots on the face that then spread over the entire body. Your baby might for example suddenly get a fever or very red cheeks and itching. The spots often disappear within a week on their own, but if your child really feels unwell, you can consider giving paracetamol. If you are pregnant and someone in your surroundings has this illness, it's important that you contact your doctor or midwife. Children between 6 months and 2.5 years old can catch sixth disease. It's caused by herpesvirus type 6. Your child suddenly has a high fever and develops small light red spots on the face, neck and later also on the rest of the body. The illness goes away on its own and after 5-7 days your child often feels better. In the meantime, it's important that he or she drinks well. By dressing your child lightly, he or she can shed heat well. With scarlet fever, your child usually suffers from a sore throat, fever (sometimes up to 40 degrees) and red spots on the skin. It often starts on the chest and spreads to the rest of the body, especially under the armpits and in the groin. After 3 days your child can also develop a red tongue. The spots are rough and bumpy but don't itch. The illness is caused by the bacterium streptococcus. It usually goes away between 7-10 days, and in the meantime it's important to ensure that your child drinks well, rests and has something to suck on for sore throat (candy, ice cream). Children in the Netherlands are usually vaccinated against rubella. It's a contagious disease caused by the rubella virus and often starts with a cold and then progresses to swollen glands, fever and pink-red spots on the face and behind the ears. This goes away after a few days. You can best care for your child as if it has a cold, and make sure he or she drinks plenty of water. Rubella can be harmful to unborn babies, so call your doctor or midwife if you are pregnant and your child has never had rubella or been vaccinated against it. Most children in the Netherlands receive 2 injections against measles (MMR vaccine), so this disease is no longer common. It's caused by a virus that settles in the throat, mouth and nose and often starts with a cold, cough, red eyes, and fever. Then small white spots appear in the mouth and then red spots on the face and body. Due to reduced immunity during this illness, some children can catch something else and develop an ear infection, pneumonia or meningitis. If your child has measles, he or she cannot go to childcare or school, and it's important to inform everyone. Does your child have spots and blisters in and around the mouth and on the hands and feet? Then he or she probably has hand, foot and mouth disease. It can be caused by various viruses, such as coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus type 71. It starts with a slight fever, and then your child can become runny-nosed but can also get stomach pain. After 1-2 days, small red spots appear in the mouth, which hurt and can become inflamed. It usually gets better within 2 weeks, and try to give your child small sips of water or let him or her suck on a water ice if drinking causes too much pain. Always be cautious with a baby with (high) fever and contact your doctor if your baby is under 3 months old or if your child is getting increasingly sick, is inconsolable or drinks little to nothing. Does your child become drowsy, does he or she cry or moan a lot or suffer from headaches or neck stiffness? This can indicate meningitis. Some babies also develop sepsis, where they get dark red or purple spots on their body that cannot be pressed away. Then rapid treatment in the hospital is needed.
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Everything you can do to prevent stretch marks during your pregnancy
During pregnancy, a lot happens to your body. The extra production of the hormone estrogen makes your skin more supple, so it can stretch. Sometimes your skin can't keep up with the growth of your belly. Then stretch marks develop. Almost every woman experiences this to some degree, so these stripes are certainly nothing to be insecure about. How do stretch marks develop and how do you keep your skin well nourished? We explain it to you and give tips. How do stretch marks develop?Stretch marks develop when your body grows faster than your skin can handle. During pregnancy, but also due to a growth spurt in your youth or if you gain a lot of weight in a short time, you can get stretch marks. The growth causes small tears in your connective tissue that are visible from the outside. This can be visible on the belly, but also on breasts, legs and in some cases the arms. These stripes can initially be purple or red, but will usually lighten over time and take on your own skin color.Can you prevent it?Whether you get stretch marks or not is largely genetically determined. Therefore, you have almost no influence on preventing stretch marks. Creating a baby is no small feat, so it's also nothing to be ashamed of.Of course, you can take extra good care of and support your skin during the growth process. Using an oil or balm helps keep your skin supple and nourished, and although it won't prevent stretch marks, it does seem to have a small positive effect. It also helps against any itching and can reduce a pulling sensation.TipsBelow are a few tips that can help keep your skin supple and nourished during your pregnancy: Hydrate. Whether you're pregnant or not, your skin and body need moisture for the production of new cells, but also for maintaining elastin in your skin. Help your body by drinking at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day during pregnancy. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Skin that stretches and comes under tension can become itchy or dry. It's a natural process, but one we can support a little. By not showering too hot and applying a nice pregnancy balm afterwards, your skin stays better hydrated and dries out less quickly. Contrast showers. By alternating between warm and cold water, you stimulate blood circulation and strengthen your connective tissue. Massage your skin well during the shower and wear supportive clothing, such as pregnancy underwear, or pregnancy tights or leggings. Exercise & healthy eating. It doesn't have to be intense sports, but staying active during pregnancy also promotes good blood circulation and a healthy weight. Also, nutritious and varied food can contribute to healthy skin: omega 3 fatty acids (in fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring) and probiotics (in yogurt, kefir, pickles) appear to help with dry skin, for example. Daily belly massage. It only needs to take 5 minutes, but this action stimulates your connective tissue and keeps your skin well nourished. Use a mild pregnancy oil for this. Besides being a nice moment for yourself, it's also a good way to make a connection with your baby in your belly.
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Which baby products to use and when?
Baby care comes in all shapes and sizes. As a new parent, you often don't know what you really need. Do you use bath foam or shampoo for a newborn baby? And when and how often should you apply body lotion? A baby develops quickly and care needs change with each phase. Below we explain which products you need and when. The first 24 hours Your baby is born with a natural protective layer: the vernix caseosa. This layer develops during the twentieth week of pregnancy, is full of proteins and nutrients and keeps baby's skin nourished and protected against infections. You want to leave this layer be for as long as possible, but at least the first 24 hours. So in the beginning you don't need anything at all. Still, it's wise to bring some mild care products in your hospital bag in case you need to stay longer than planned. Our mini set contains all Naïf bestsellers in small sizes. Add a pack of baby wipes and a nice shower foam and face wash for yourself and you're all set! Between 0-4 weeks In the first weeks your baby will need very few care products. Babies don't sweat and usually don't get very dirty either. They also often have little or no hair, so shampoo is usually not needed. Bathing your baby 2 to 3 times a week is more than enough in this phase. But which products do you use then? Water can dry out the skin, which you want to avoid with sensitive baby skin. You can add a few drops of mild bath oil to the baby bath. The oil makes the hard water softer and nourishes the skin directly during bathing. Prefer to shower with your baby? Use a mild wash gel. For extra sensitive skin, opt for a fragrance-free version. A large drop of wash gel on a washcloth is usually enough to clean your baby well. After bathing or showering, you can apply a mild oil to your baby. If you have a bit more time and want to make a nice moment out of it with your little one, you can also use this to give your baby a massage. To keep your baby's bottom, but also hands and face clean throughout the day, you'll need plenty of wipes. Our plastic-free wipes are made from wood fibers and contain 0% alcohol and fragrance. And they come in two varieties: water-based or with a mild lotion for extra hydration. Not sure which you need? Read here more about the difference between the two types of wipes. Not dangerous, but very painful: diaper rash. That's why it's recommended to change your baby's diaper regularly and to preventively apply a zinc cream to your baby's bottom. Read here more about the tips and tricks from dermatologist Elodie Mendels. From 0 to 1 year You're getting to know your baby and their needs better and better. That's why it becomes easier to determine which products your little one needs after the first few weeks. You can add a number of products where needed: Hair care and styling: some kids are born with a full head of hair, for others it takes a while before the first hairs appear. With little hair, a bit of bath oil over the head during bathing may be enough for the first period. But as the locks get thicker, you can switch to a mild shampoo. If the hair is really longer and hard to comb through, you can also use a hair lotion. Body lotions, creams, and balms: you can start applying from birth, but after a few weeks you'll probably better know what your baby's skin really needs. A body lotion can always be used, and a rich cream is suitable for when the skin is a bit drier. The difference? A lotion contains more water, a cream more oil. Does your baby now suffer from really dry patches and rough skin or cracks? Then you can also choose for an extra nourishing baby balm. Bath and shower fun: the first few months your baby doesn't really need bubbles in the bath, but after 3-6 months you might want to add a bit more fun to bath or shower time. And what's better than a nice full bath foam? Sun protection: in the first year you should keep babies out of the sun as much as possible. But since that's not always possible, it's wise to apply sunscreen preventively on sunny days. Choose a high protection and a formula suitable for sensitive baby skin, such as our mineral sunscreen with SPF 50. Don't feel like collecting everything but want to have all the essentials at home? With our baby starter bundle you're well set for the first period. Parents' favorites 1. Shampoo: "A wonderful shampoo for all our kids! No mess, smells great, and even with lots of hair you don't need much and it lathers beautifully!" 2. Wash gel: "Very positive, my daughter is allergic to many products. So nice that this wash gel is gentle on the skin and smells great!" 3. Bath foam: "My little one always got a rash but this is so nice for his skin. Soft skin after a bath and it smells great too" 4. Baby cream: "Since I've been applying this generously every day, my kids hardly have any dry patches! Very happy with it. And I want to smell them all day, so nice." 5. Body lotion: "We've been using this for our daughter for a year now. She has very dry skin. These products really help and smell delicious!"
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How to give yourself a belly massage during pregnancy?
A belly massage during your pregnancy provides peace and quiet. Literally and figuratively. During your pregnancy, a lot happens in your body, but also in your mind. To do lists, preparations, not feeling great physically or mentally. To not lose yourself, it can be good to check in with yourself and your baby. With a belly massage you do that naturally, and you also take good care of your skin. Read below how to do it. About Jill van der Veen We spoke with Jill van der Veen, who started her own platform Mom • Me • Soul in 2014. Her mission is to provide relaxation to pregnant women with a focus on good recovery, so she can live from her true potential and stand in her power. A belly massage is not only practical to keep the skin supple and soft, but mentally it is also nice to make a better connection with the baby. 'The biggest wish I hear from pregnant women is; I want to enjoy optimally, or even more than the previous pregnancy,' Jill says. ''Massaging your belly is one of the small moments when you make contact with the baby and thus consciously experience your pregnancy and can enjoy it even more. And it's precisely small moments that can contribute to that. It only takes 5 minutes a day and can even be done standing or before you go to sleep, in bed. The more often you do it, the easier you can make contact with the baby. And it contributes to self-care; keeping your beautiful skin soft and supple, and creating a moment of peace. Slowly you will build a routine, and you can also take this with you once the baby is born to bring you both into relaxation. This is a gift for yourself, your baby and your beautiful, powerful body.' Belly massage step-by-step plan Step 1. Make yourself comfortable; phone off, dim the lights and put on nice music. Get into a comfortable position, on the couch for example, with your back slightly raised and enough pillows to support your back completely. It is important that there is no gap between your back and the couch. Finally, place a thick pillow under your knees so that your lower back is relieved. Step 2. Think of your intention. Do you want to experience more relaxation? Or take a moment to think about what's happening in your belly? Maybe you can give a wish to your unborn little one. Step 3. Warm your hands and let the energy flow through by rubbing your hands together. That also feels nicer on your warm belly. Step 4. Before you start massaging, make contact with the baby; place your hands on your belly, talk in your thoughts or out loud, or sing a song. If something is on your mind, share it with the baby. Or tell what you're going to do and what your intention is. Step 5. Apply a nice pregnancy oil or balm to your hands, warm it up between your hands and then rub it over your belly. Step 6. Vary with different grips: circles clockwise, counter-clockwise, zigzag, stroke downwards, stroke along the groin. Step 7. Repeat your intention and massage to the rhythm of the music.
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What skincare can you safely use during pregnancy?
Being pregnant can be a beautiful experience, but it also comes with questions and worries. One of the things that may come up is what you can and cannot apply to your skin during your pregnancy. We've listed the ingredients you can safely use and which ones to better avoid. Avoid: Retinol (Vitamin A) Skincare products with retinol (also known as vitamin A) are not recommended during pregnancy. This is because retinol can penetrate deeply into the skin. What the exact effect of vitamin A is on an unborn baby is still not entirely clear. Therefore, it's best to skip it during your pregnancy. Safe alternatives to retinol Does this mean you can't do anything for your skin in the coming months? Fortunately, there are plenty of ingredients that are safe to use and still have an effective action. You can use niacinamide against acne and blemishes, and vitamin C to help prevent pigmentation and brighten the skin. Let that glow shine! Avoid: Salicylic acid (BHA) Another ingredient you should avoid for now is salicylic acid, also known as BHA or beta-hydroxy-acid. This active ingredient has an exfoliating effect and is also often used for blemishes and acne. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, salicylic acid in very low concentration (2%) can be safely used, but not all over the face. Because it's easy to make mistakes with this, most dermatologists and doctors still advise against using this ingredient during pregnancy. Better safe than sorry! Safe alternatives to salicylic acid Instead of salicylic acid, you can choose glycolic acid or lactic acid (AHA). Prefer not to exfoliate with active ingredients, but still want to remove dead skin cells? Then choose a gentle scrub or face wash based on sunflower oil. Avoid: SLES SLES is a surfactant that creates the foam in your shampoo, soap or detergents. Products with SLES can be irritating for some people or cause a tight feeling on the skin (source: RIVM). Due to hormonal fluctuations, your skin may already feel drier and tighter during pregnancy. SLES is safe to use, but if you have drier skin due to hormonal fluctuations during your pregnancy, you may want to avoid this ingredient for now. Safe alternatives to SLES Naïf skincare products - such as our shampoo and conditioner - are made with sodium coco-sulfate. This is a variant of SLS, with ingredients derived from coconut oil. This ensures that our products foam nicely while being gentler on the skin. Avoid: Parabens Many creams and shampoos contain parabens, which are used as preservatives. This is essential in skincare products because they prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. Yet parabens have gained a bad reputation in recent years. Both scientists and consumers have been debating the possible hormone-disrupting effects of these parabens, and for example the risk of developing breast cancer. At this moment there is insufficient information to determine whether parabens are actually hormone-disrupting substances and the link between parabens and breast cancer has never been scientifically proven (source: RIVM). The EU has even legally stipulated that the claim "paraben-free" can no longer be made by manufacturers because it unnecessarily gives a negative connotation to the use of these ingredients. Alternatives to parabens For now, it seems unnecessary to avoid parabens. Would you prefer not to have parabens in your skincare? You can recognize them on the ingredient list with the following names: methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben or benzylparaben. We prefer to play it safe, so Naïf products contain no parabens. Oxybenzone Many sunscreen creams contain oxybenzone. This non-mineral UV filter penetrates the skin and absorbs UV rays. Oxybenzone is safe for babies, children and adults but can cause skin irritation in some people (source: RIVM). Additionally, there is scientific research into the negative effects of oxybenzone on coral (source: Science of the Total Environment), a reason why this ingredient is banned in sunscreen in Hawaii. Alternatives to oxybenzone As an alternative, you can look for a mineral sunscreen with a UV filter based on zinc oxide. These sunscreen creams provide optimal protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, without really penetrating the skin. Zinc oxide forms a layer on the skin that reflects harmful UV radiation like a mirror, and thereby also minimizes the chance of a skin reaction. This article cannot be used as a substitute for specialist medical advice. If you have any doubts about a product or ingredient, always consult a doctor.
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Fun baby gifts to give and receive
The baby is here - finally! With a nice gift you help the new parents on their way or spoil the little one. Whether you're looking for something practical for the first months or something that brings joy later on, it can be quite a search for a nice gift. From soft baby textiles and carefully produced care sets to fun options that are guaranteed to be a hit – here are 10 special gifts that new parents would love to receive. Everything you can put to good use 1. Leo Leo Changing Mat – Leo Leo Copenhagen A changing mat always comes in handy. This Leo Leo Changing Mat is made from 100% organic GOTS-certified cotton. And if the parents already have a changing mat at home, your gift will be the lifesaver when 'shit hits the fan' - a spare mat is no unnecessary luxury, every parent knows that. Compact and practical, ideal for on the go in the diaper bag. 2. Naïf x Repose AMS Tiny Human Essentials Kit As a parent, you want to care for that delicate baby skin, nothing worse than red spots or irritated skin. With this limited edition care set, you're all set! It contains a Naïf x Repose AMS striped wash bag, Naïf Milky Bath Oil and Naïf Baby Cream fragrance-free. The ideal gift to care for baby skin and give parents some relief during their new adventure. 3. Gray Label Baby Knitted Mittens These knitted mittens from Gray Label are made from 100% merino wool and keep your baby's hands nice and warm. They are available in different colors and you can easily thread them through your little one's jacket so you never lose them. The very smallest can already use them, as they are available in Extra Small and Small sizes (0-1 year). Perfect for cold days! 4. Londji Pocket Puzzle Mama This puzzle from Londji is ideal for little puzzle solvers in the making. The 7 puzzles, each consisting of three pieces, depict mother animals with their babies. The puzzle promotes creativity and fine motor skills in little ones. Our favorite? The bear with her cubs and the mouse with her mini. 5. Garbo & Friends Hydrophilic Spit Cloths Bluebell These spit cloths made from soft cotton are perfect for cleaning up milk residue or burps – trust us, you can never have too many ;). Available in stylish earth tones and botanical prints, it's not only a practical gift but also a must-have for every baby essentials list. 6. Book Invisible Things This beautifully illustrated book lets children and adults discover the magic of the everyday. Because some invisible things are just worth discovering. The book invites first conversations about emotions and moods, which are often left unspoken. Highly recommended! 7. Naïf Tiny Bubbles Essentials Set Have fun bubbling with this must-have set from Naïf! Of course, you only want the very best for the new baby, and this set delivers. Safe products made with natural ingredients and suitable for sensitive skin. With this set, new parents can try the shampoo, wash gel and body lotion. 8. Repose AMS Baby Hat in Crème Brûlée Stripe An adorable baby hat from Repose AMS, made from soft materials that keep the baby's head warm. For winter babies an absolute must-have, but young babies can wear it in summer too. This stylish hat is a perfect gift for every stylish baby (to-be). 9. Quut Jellyfish Toy This innovative bath toy from Quut is made from soft foam and stimulates both motor skills and creativity in your little one. The jellyfish fit into each other and your mini can puzzle away. Perfect for bath time! 10. Gray Label Rib Socks (2-pack) Soft and stylish rib socks for your little one. Available in fresh colors and made from organic cotton. These socks keep little feet warm and match any outfit. Ideal for the winter months! Everything with a personal touch If you want to give an original birth gift then you can think of a birth gift with a name, in other words a personalized birth gift. These are the best birth gifts with names. 1. Personalized book from MrStarsky You know them; the personalized books. Absolutely a great gift for life. But what if you could give a book as a gift based on an entered name, birthplace, date and time? That's right, then you have a very unique birth book. And this is exactly the kind that MrStarsky makes. Yes, exactly the people behind the same personalized posters. We can never get enough of them. 2. Backpack Studio Noos Who doesn't know them; the personalized backpacks from Studio Noos. Choose the backpack plus the name and - tada! - birth gift on fleek. 3. Bandana from Flora Bandana Do you know Flora Bandana yet? Fleur personalizes bandanas with names and words. You can choose from different colored cloths and threads. How cute when the baby crawls around with such a brightly colored bandana around the neck. 4. Apron with name from Jet x Atelier POMME The baby can't use it right away, but waste not, want not. The mini will definitely play kitchen or bake something at some point and then this amazing apron is pretty awesome. Anyway, everything that's personalised from Atelier POMME is fantastic! 5. Loveliest photo book with name Sure, you can put a photo book together online, but you can also buy an old-fashioned photo book. No, not one of those boring white or blue ones, but one with the most beautiful vintage fabrics from Atelier Poppy. And you know what's nice, you complete it with a label including the baby's name. Forever wishlist material! 6. Name puzzle from CRE8 You can never go wrong with puzzles. But what if it's a name puzzle. That's right! The name puzzles from CRE8 are delightful to look at and fun to put back together. Difficult too, so it's good for your brain as well. You can choose from different sizes and colors and you can even have a personal message engraved on it. Fun fact: during Christmas they do Christmas ornaments with names. 7. Sheet, bath cape or towel from Atelier Annur With the beautiful, soft Atelier Annur (we can't stop looking, no way) you can have sheets, bath capes or towels embroidered with a name in flowing letters. Think colors like Ivory, Burgundy Red and Sage Green. Well, we know which one we want. 8. Wooden lamp with name Oh, how cute. The wooden bedside lamps from Hethoutlokael have something magical. A lamp you can stare at for hours. Besides that, we think it's pure craftsmanship. You can choose from different "backgrounds" and enter the name yourself. 9. Name hanger Punched out names in all kinds of colors that you can, for example, hang at the top of the crib or on the wall? Yes indeed, JibbeJebba has it. Don't like the punching thing? Then there are also wire words. Check it out yourself. 10. Vintage knitwear How cool is this! Willie the Label is a company from Munich where you can send a photo of a drawing by your child, which they then print on a t-shirt or sweater. Now babies aren't very creative with pen and paper, so this won't work for a birth gift. Of course, there's a solution; vintage knitwear where you can have a name embroidered. You can also provide your own knitwear.
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My baby has a fever, what to do?
Your baby feels a bit warmer and is fussy. Is it a fever? Where does it come from and what can you do? Don't panic! We have some information and tips that might help you. Fever vs. high temperature A normal body temperature of a baby ranges between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius. Between 37.5 and 38 degrees Celsius, it's an elevated temperature that can cause your little one to be a bit more fussy and wanting to be close to you. Above 38 degrees Celsius it is called a high fever. Often you notice that your child has red cheeks, feels warm and wants to sleep a lot. How does it happen? A fever can have various causes. Teething, vaccinations or viruses can all cause fever. In most cases, a fever is a sign that the body is fighting something. Especially when your baby goes to daycare, different bacteria and viruses (they experience for the first time) can make your baby sick a bit more often in the first year. What can you do? In most cases there is no reason to worry. Although it's hard to see your baby uncomfortable, fever is also a good sign that the body is working hard to combat an illness. Here are a number of things you can do to speed up recovery: Give your baby plenty to drink. It is fine if they eat little, but fluids are important because your child loses more of it through the heat than normal. Under 6 months it's not recommended (even dangerous) to give your baby water or other fluids apart from breastmilk or formula. Don't dress them too warmly. The body needs to get rid of its heat, so go for light clothing and possibly layers that you can easily put on and take off. Make time to cuddle with your little one and comfort him or her. Your presence helps. Try to let them rest or sleep as much as possible. Being sick takes a lot of energy. If you notice that your baby is in pain or has difficulty falling asleep, you might consider giving him or her a painkiller. Pay close attention to the amount, as this depends on the age or weight of your child. When to call the doctor? If your parental instinct tells you that something is not right, you can always call your GP. Even on weekends or holidays you can always reach a doctor's emergency clinic. A number of things that indicate direct action: If the fever quickly turns into a high fever and rises at a rapid pace Your baby is drowsy or lethargic and you cannot easily wake them Your child is inconsolable Little to no wet diapers Your baby has a febrile seizure The fever lasts longer than three days Red spots appear on the body that do not disappear when pressed
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How to bathe your baby in 5 simple steps
Bathing your baby for the first time can be quite exciting. Such a small and delicate little one, and you're often doing it for the first time! Don't worry, together with Kraamzorg de Kraamvogel we've created a 5-step plan to make it all a bit easier. The first bathIn the first 24 hours, babies are not washed, not even in the hospital. This is to preserve the white natural skin layer, the vernix caseosa. It contains fats and proteins that give the skin an extra barrier in the first hours outside the womb. But what if your baby is already home? How often do you bathe him or her then? In the beginning, bathing 2 times a week is more than enough. After that, you can do it every other day or every 2 days.Step 1: preparationPlace your baby on a safe spot, such as in a baby nest or in the playpen. Set everything you need ready beforehand: in the bathroom the bath, a washcloth and a gentle bath oil or wash gel and a nice towel. In the room on the changing table, lay out a hydrophilic cloth, a gentle oil or cream, a clean diaper and clothes.Step 2: prepare the bathFill the bath with lukewarm water (37 degrees), add a few drops of mild bath oil and mix it with water. If your little one is already a few weeks old, you can also use a gentle baby wash gel on a washcloth to clean the dirtier spots or hair well. Undress your baby and, as long as he or she is not in the water, drape a hydrophilic cloth over the body. Newborn babies lose their warmth quickly, so an extra layer won't hurt.Step 3: in the bathLift your baby, support the head and buttocks well and place him or her slowly in the water. You'll see that your baby relaxes. Keep supporting the head - for example in the crook of your elbow - and use your other hand to wash your little one. Don't forget to clean the folds under the armpits, behind the knees and in the neck well with a washcloth.Step 4: drying & caringAfter 5 to 10 minutes, lift your little one out of the bath and lift him or her in the towel to the changing table. Pat your little one dry with the hydrophilic cloth and especially make sure the folds are dry, as leftover moisture can easily cause diaper rash. Water can also easily dry out baby skin, so after bathing you can apply a baby oil or a rich cream to the skin.Step 5: dressing & cuddlesPut a fresh diaper and clean clothes on your little one, and give him or her a big hug. Et voilà: you have a clean, lovely smelling baby!Extra tips Choose a fixed time for the bath, this contributes to a good rhythm for your child. See the care ritual that follows the bath itself as a moment of bonding - you can cuddle nicely with your little one while you rub him or her, or give a short baby massage. Also always check your child's bottom. Is it red or flaky? Then you can immediately apply a diaper cream.
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These 8 tips help you be kind to yourself during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a big deal. Some people experience few problems, while others encounter all known ailments. However your pregnancy progresses, be kind to yourself! It's okay if you don't feel good one day or if you're struggling a bit. So much is happening in your body. To help you, we've collected 8 tips on how you can give yourself and your changing body some extra love during pregnancy. 1. Embrace and accept We know, this can sound so awful when you're hanging over the toilet for three months (or longer) and feeling nauseous. Been there. But in hindsight, you can do nothing but accept the situation. Hold on to the fact that it's all for a good cause and will eventually pass. 2. Get your sleep Really! Especially in the first trimester and at the end of pregnancy you can be quite tired, give in to it! Put your social contacts on the back burner and let the housework be for now. Your body is working hard and could use the rest. Suffering from insomnia during pregnancy? We've collected some tips for that too. 3. Pamper your changing skin Your skin gets quite a beating during pregnancy. Hormones and growth can cause dryness or itching, so it's important to give extra attention. Use our relaxing body oil to pamper yourself and support your growing belly with our belly balm. Suffering from restless legs? A bath with magnesium bath salt can help! Read more tips about skincare during pregnancy here. 4. Take a few days for yourself What? Yes, this sounds impossible indeed. Yet it's not a bad idea at all. When the baby arrives, there will be little time left for yourself, so some me-time won't hurt. See if you can get away to a nature cottage or book a pregnancy retreat. 5. Mind, body, soul from home Maybe you have no desire to leave the house, but want to cocoon nicely. Then of course you can stay home. Listen to podcasts or meditations, follow pregnancy yoga from your own home or take an online pregnancy course. Nice from your bubble. 6. Pregnancy massage Ever thought about a pregnancy massage? Do it! Let yourself be pampered and give your body the relaxation of a massage. Also good if you're retaining fluid. 7. Stop apologizing! Those hormonal outbursts are completely normal. Yes, they're annoying, but you really don't need to keep apologizing. Not even when you have cravings, by the way. Let it go and know: this will pass too. 8. Your body is undergoing change and that's just how it is So accept it! It can sometimes be difficult to see your body change. Some women feel their most beautiful when they're pregnant, others feel like a beached whale. Try to find the things you do think are beautiful. And the most beautiful thing of all is of course that your body is changing to provide your child a safe place to grow.
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