[babysheepcomics]

[ourlove-ourstory-deactivated201]

Good to know I didn’t miss out on the Greek life by not joining a sorority in college

[similac3-arabia-blog]

What The Photos You Post of Family Say About You

Yahoo

We all have at least one of those friends, whose rosy-cheeked, grinning family candids on Facebook look ripped from a Mini Boden catalog minus the accessory puppy. I’d venture to say that we also all know someone who shares photos of her kids, no matter what they look like, every day, all day long.

One in three people, in fact, say that the only reason they take pictures in the first place is to post them on social media, according to a survey by Instagram photo printing site Kanvess. Of the 1,000 respondents, more than 50 percent believe it’s important for others to observe their daily lives through images, reports the UK’s Daily Mail. But among all the images shared, one type of photo beat out the typical shots of pets and friends for title of most shared: Family photos.

The style of family photo that you post on social media doesn’t just tell others what you want them to think about you and your family, though, it reveals what your parenting style really is. “We are visual animals and unconsciously try to ‘figure out’ others using visual cues,” image consultant Carol Davidson of StyleWorks of Union Square Inc. tells Yahoo Parenting. Here’s what typical family photos actually indicate about you and yours.

The perfectly polished and posed shot Just as you’d expect, this type of picture tells the world that you want them to know, “I was able to create this beautiful family and my kids are always well behaved,” Sylvie Di Giusto of Executive Image Consulting, tells Yahoo Parenting. It also suggests that you are only interested in creating a positive spin around yourself. The image consultant recommends that her corporate clients consider the “Triple M Rule” when displaying photos in their offices. “Only show things that you’d be happy for your mom, manager, and minister to see.” It also indicates that you have respect for your children, she adds. “If your son or daughter saw this in 20 years they won’t be embarrassed.”

The messy kids, laughing all together shot “This picture suggests that the parents have a relaxed parenting style,” Davidson offers as a best-case scenario. Worst case? “It may suggest that they are not paying attention to the details — or to their children.” There’s nothing wrong with posting one photo of a messy kid, adds Di Giusto, “But if you do it again and again, you make that your story.”

The silly shots with parents acting like kids alongside children This one is as straightforward as they come, according to Davidson. “It suggests that the parents are fun-loving, easy-going and encourage laughter, and enjoy a good time,” she says. What others observing it take away, she says, is that “these people like to let their hair down.”

The selfie with your kids as photobombers Selfish, levels Davidson. “This may suggest that the parent is more about the photo opp than engaging with their children.” Adds Di Giusto, “This type of photo reveals that you put yourself in the center of everything.”

The shots of kids caught in the act Images of children nabbed doing something that they shouldn’t (think: coloring on walls, standing on a table, cutting a sibling’s hair) are a crowd pleaser, says Davidson. “And it suggests that you have a very human, real quality. These kind of images can even foster a feeling of camaraderie with other parents who see this photo. People enjoy seeing pictures like this.”

[similac3-arabia-blog]

Most Popular Ways People Describe Their Moms

Yahoo

Kids, especially those all grown up, may not always tell their mom, “I love you,” but it turns out many write it. According to data released by Facebook in honor of Mother’s Day, the most common word people use in posts to their mothers is “love.”

The social media site tallied the top 20 terms members used in communications with their moms between January and April of this year and found that the lineup is full of affection (including the go-to greeting card sign off, “xx” for kisses) and joking (“LOL” was the second-most used word and “Haha” slips in at No. 7).

Compliments made the list as well, as demonstrated by: “Cute,” “Linda” (“pretty” in Spanish),” “Best” and “Beautiful.” And some gratitude got in as well from “Thanks,” and “Gracias.”

The top phrases, though, all went straight to the heart: “I love you,” ranks first followed by, “Love you too,” and “Love you mom,” with a “Happy birthday mom,” sandwiched in there for acknowledgement on her special day.  

The top words in order of the most use? Love, LOL, Mom, Happy birthday, Amo, Thanks, Haha, Good, xx / xxx, Mama, Mum, Mãe, Gracias, Hope, Cute, Mami, Linda, Momma, Best, and Beautiful.

Twitter’s tally in honor of moms’ big day looked instead at what women themselves said about being a mom. Analyzing tweets mentioning, “Motherhood is…” and similar phrases for a full calendar year from May 1, 2014 to 2015, the site found that women with kids basically agree with the old Peace Corps adage that parenthood is “the toughest job you’ll ever love.”  

Mother-of-two Mariah Carey probably summed up the bottom line best, though, when she tweeted about bonding with her twins Monroe and Moroccan last year: “Quality time with #dembabies.. so much happiness!!”

[similac3-arabia-blog]

The Best Parenting Advice In 5 Words

Yahoo

‘Play with your kids today’ is my favorite parenting advice. Not only is it fun to hop on a swing, have a dance party, or read together, these are simple ideas that anyone can try. Here, from an informal Facebook poll, parents share their short and sweet parenting advice in just five words.

“Don’t be afraid to apologize.” —Chris Adrian.

“Parenting books make great coasters!” —Nicky Stanard

“Always say I love you.” —Melissa Skabich.

“You can’t do it all.” —Liz Gumbinner

“Remember to breathe and smile.” —Melissa Scrittorale.

“Always go with your gut.” —Sarah C.

“Never leave home without wipes.” —Deanna G.

“Never go to bed angry.” —Patrica D.

“Beware the playground ‘Mommy Mafia.'” —Lorraine C.

“Don’t be your kids’ friend.” —Ed N.

“Be present and have fun!” —Scott Rose.

[similac3-arabia-blog]

Similac3

Similac

[similac3-arabia-blog]

Growing-up Milk

Similac3

Gain Plus has been specially formulated to

• Provide excellent mental, visual and physical development — Contains the Eye Q System, a unique combination of nutrients including, AA, DHA, omega 3 & 6, taurine, choline and iron important for mental, visual, language and physical development

1. Contains higher levels of phospholipids. Phospholipids are essential for the functioning of brain cells

2. And added lutein, a nutrient important to the retina to support your child’s eye health

• Nourish your child’s immune system — 70% of the immune system is located in the intestinal tract. Gain Plus contains a unique combination of Immunify ingredients, scientifically designed to provide 3-way Immune System Support with prebiotics, probiotics and nucleotides

1. Prebiotics stimulate the growth of good bacteria, which supports your child’s natural defenses

2. Probiotics nourish a healthy digestive system

3. Nucleotides help support your child’s immune system

• Support growth – Fortified with extra calcium and a unique vegetable fat blend, free of palm olein oil, Gain Plus has been scientifically developed to support nutrient and calcium absorption important for strong bones and healthy teeth

[similac3-arabia-blog]

How to raise kind kids

Yahoo

Being compassionate and doing good deeds helps kids build confidence and feel happy, experts say. (Photo: Hill Street Studios/Eric Raptosh)

No parent in the world wants her child to grow up selfish and mean-spirited. But if you aren’t actively teaching your kids to be compassionate and caring, that might be the result. That’s because kids tend to be on the receiving end of some mixed messages when it comes to the value of kindness.

A recent Harvard University study bears this out. Researchers surveyed approximately 10,000 middle school and high-school age kids across all income levels and ethnic backgrounds between 2013 and 2014. When asked whether it was more important to them to be personally successful or kind, 75 percent picked success. Researchers also asked the kids what they felt their parents emphasized more; about 80 percent went with personal success.

The response caught the research team off guard. But it makes sense, they believe, considering that so many children grow up with parents and teachers who focus on achievement-oriented goals, such as acing standardized tests and getting into a good college. For today’s kids, high self-esteem has a higher value than acting selflessly.

“There seems to be even more of a frenzy on test scores and college admissions as a path toward personal achievement and happiness,”Richard Weissbourd, part of the team that conducted the survey and co-director of Making Caring Common, an initiative at Harvard, tells Yahoo Parenting. “We tell kids to value their own happiness and feelings, not the happiness and feelings of others.”

Kindness gets further lost in the mix amid a larger popular culture that rewards a win-at-all-costs mentality and personal success. “We have it backward: success doesn’t make a person happy, but caring and doing good deeds for others does,” says Weissbourd.

Other experts not affiliated with Making Caring Common agree. “Happiness is a worthwhile goal, but it’s the result of having a life rich in meaning and engagement,” family therapist Dr. Paul Hokemeyertells Yahoo Parenting. “The people who are the happiest at any age are those who are engaged in the world through service to others.”

Kids also get the wrong message be watching the adults in their lives. “Parents in particular have gotten caught up in external and selfish notions of success,” says Hokemeyer. “They’re forced to compete in a hyper-competitive world that is driven by commercial interests rather than authentic needs. Bigger houses, faster cars, admission to elite colleges—these have become goals that parents themselves strive for.”

Though it’s impossible to dial back a larger culture that focuses on winning and success, you can avoid modeling this behavior for your kids. These pointers will help them understand why practicing kindness and compassion breeds true success.

Praise hard work and kindness rather than achievement. “If you reserve praise for getting an A on a test or scoring the winning goal in the soccer game, your child will think success is what matters most,”Amy Morin, psychotherapist and author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do, tells Yahoo Parenting. Instead, praise your child for things like showing good sportsmanship or studying hard, so you’re calling out the virtue that helped them accomplish the achievement.

[similac3-arabia-blog]

How to prep for baby #2

Yahoo

By Elena Donovan Mauer

We hate to break it to you, but your second pregnancy might not be all “been there done that.” The fact is, you might have to deal with some pregnancy symptoms you didn’t get the first time around. And of course, you’ll have to get baby no. 1 used to the idea of a new sibling and make room at home for a fourth family member. Here’s how to get your body, social life, home and family ready.

Expect symptoms sooner — and stronger Don’t assume that if you didn’t experience certain symptoms the first time, you’ll be as lucky this time. Some moms swear those early-pregnancy symptoms — fatigue, morning sickness — are stronger the second time around. Some tricks to combat morning sickness? Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day, nibble on ginger, sip peppermint tea, suck on Preggie Pops, and try Sea-Band acupressure wristbands.

You also can expect most things to happen sooner than they did the last time around. Since you already know what it feels like to feel baby move, you’ll probably recognize the subtle sensations earlier. You might also start showing sooner. And labor? Well, it’s likely to go faster (woo hoo!).

Don’t think you have everything you need Contrary to what some people think, it is perfectly okay to have a party for baby #2. You do actually need some new stuff (ahem, double stroller). And besides, it’s a good way to see all your loved ones before you’re too busy juggling two tots.

As far as stuff goes… Sure, you can reuse lots of things from baby #1, like old clothes, some furniture and gear. But be wary of any safety items you’re considering unearthing from the attic. Car seats are generally only good for about six years, so check the expiration. Also, if you have a drop-side crib, consider upgrading. This style is off the market now for a reason (one of the biggest problems with drop-sides is that they’re not as sound as fixed-side models and age-related wear and tear can weaken them, making them dangerous). So make sure yours is 100-percent sturdy and intact before committing to reusing it.

Get baby #1 on board 

As your pregnancy progresses, it’s important to be honest with baby #1 about how life will change with the new baby around. Make sure he knows ahead of time that you and Dad might not have as much time to spend with him once his little brother or sister arrives. And make sure he understands that he won’t be able to play with the baby for a few months after he’s born.

Some moms like to prep their kid by teaching him to be more independent in certain ways, like cleaning up his toys himself. Consider giving your child a baby doll or stuffed animal to “take care of” while you care for the new baby to make him feel included.

But while you want your big kid to be prepared, you also want things to feel as normal as possible throughout the changes — and that means making sure your kid knows you’ll always still love him and that he’ll always be very special to you. Make it a point to spend one-on-one time with him now and plan to continue to do that once the baby comes, too. Make arrangements with a sitter or family member so he can stay in his own bed when you go into labor. And, when the baby is born, ask friends and family who’ll bring gifts to bring one for baby #1, too.

Nurture your relationship Um, did we mention you’re about to be super busy? If you thought you barely had enough time for romance with your partner now, you ain’t seen nothing yet! Hire a sitter and have a few date nights, so you can enjoy some much-needed couple time before baby makes four.

[similac3-arabia-blog]

The Best Parenting Advice I’ve ever Received

Yahoo

Sleep. Me time. Non-maternity jeans you can do up. All things you’re likely to be short of when you have a baby.

One thing you are definitely not short of: advice.

Unsolicited or desperately sought, it doesn’t matter. It’s still going to be coming your way in abundance.

Which is brilliant, quite frankly, when you’re flitting between blind panic and sheer terror as you come to terms with being fully responsible for a new, and extremely fragile-looking, little person.

I am fortunate, surrounded by supportive family and many friends who have gone before me into motherhood. Friends who don’t judge, and have offered some absolute gems of advice that have been invaluable to me.

Most of them revolve in some way around a general theme of ‘don’t be so hard on yourself’. This, I feel, is no bad mantra for most parts of life, but none more so than parenthood, which can so often be filled with self doubt and judgement.

Some of the best bits of parenting advice I’ve ever been given are:

Don’t Rule Anything Out You’re “never” going to use chocolate as a bribe or resort to daytime CBeebies to entertain the toddler while you feed the baby.

You’re “never” going to fall into the trap of feeding the baby to sleep because it’s a quicker, easier route to you getting a few hours sleep than teaching him to self soothe.

The truth is, whatever you think you’ll never do, the chances are that at some point you most probably will. And it’s really okay if you do.

Ignore The Haters In the immortal words of Ms Swift, they’re gonna hate. Or rather, in this case, judge. At times it feels like everyone has an opinion on your parenting choices. And it’s not a positive one. It doesn’t matter. Ignore it.

As long as you’re happy and your children are happy, why worry?

Put Yourself In Your Child's Shoes

There’s one particular bit of advice that for me has been hands down the best ever, that has kept me sane, helped avoid countless toddler stand offs and also given me a very happy newborn.

This miraculous game changer? These four little words: How would you feel?

How would you feel if, having been carried inside somewhere warm and safe for nine months, you were suddenly expelled with force and left out in the open? Not great, I’m guessing. Would you want to be kept as safe and warm as possible, preferably in the arms of the person who had been doing all the carrying? Yes, probably. Therefore, if I am holding Henry a lot in these early weeks, I’m not “making a rod for my own back”, “stunting his development” or “spoiling him”. I’m just doing what I would want in his situation, to help him feel secure and loved and to ease his transition into this big scary world.

When faced with a toddler meltdown at the breakfast table, those four words help too.

Well how would you feel living with a bunch of giants who dictate what and when you eat every day and you don’t yet have the words to communicate that you really don’t want Weetabix today as that toast that Daddy’s eating looks way better? Okay, it doesn’t always work. I have neither an unlimited supply of patience nor the insanity to think a toddler or a newborn should always get their own way. But as a general rule, asking myself this question has been at the heart of my parenting since the very beginning.

And my fun, happy, well behaved toddler and my smiley, laid back newborn tell me we’re doing OK.