“Mommy, my ear hurts!” These days it is much easier to pinpoint the source of my daughter’s pain, but this was not the case when she was a baby. Back then I would have to drag my child into the pediatrician to see if she had an ear infection because her symptoms were not unusual. Common symptoms associated with ear infections include: *Ear pain *Tugging at the ears *Trouble sleeping *Loss of appetite, diarrhea or vomiting *Increased irritability *Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher *A thick, clear or yellowish, fluid draining from the ears The problem was that my … Continue reading →

A new study reveals that an increasing number of kids in the United States are allergic to bee stings. Fortunately, scientists also found that the majority of babies, who suffer allergic reactions to insect stings, eventually outgrow the allergies. Still, babies and bee stings never equate to a happy situation. Bee stings are a painful annoyance that cause soreness, some swelling and redness. What’s more, during the summer months, your baby’s chance of getting stung by honeybees, wasps, hornets and yellow jackets increases dramatically if you spend a lot of time in the great outdoors. Don’t let a stinging insect … Continue reading →

Nothing spoils an outdoor activity with your baby faster than a bee sting. I know this for a fact. When I was seven a bee stung my 11-month-old brother at our favorite park. It’s a scene forever etched in my memory. Actually, I don’t remember every detail, but I’ll never forget my brother’s blood curdling screams following the sting. Unfortunately, bees like to frolic in summer’s warm temps as much as children do. From parks to pools, bike rides to backyard cookouts, there are very few outdoor activities that don’t attract unwanted buzzing guests. My young daughter is deathly afraid … Continue reading →

With much of the country sweltering in the midsummer heat it’s no surprise that kids of all ages are seeking solace in cool bodies of water. After all, there’s no better way to beat the heat on a blistering hot summer day than splashing around in a pool or pond. This is true for babies too. Having a pool or pond on your own property is extremely convenient, but it is also a tremendous responsibility, especially if you have young children around. Studies show that having a fence, which completely surrounds your pool, hot tub or pond, is one of … Continue reading →

“Don’t worry – our dog is GREAT around children.” “Your baby can play safely on the floor while our dog walks around. He would never hurt a fly.” “Sure, she can pet him. He’s never bitten anyone.” How many times have you heard phrases like this when dogs and babies are in the same room? I’m an animal lover. I was never allowed to have a pet, but I made friends with all of the neighborhood animals. I’ve never had a bad experience with any animal, let alone a dog. I think raising animals teaches children valuable lessons in responsibility … Continue reading →