Speech Delays - What To Do

...Continued

If you discover that your child may have a speech or language delay, one of your first steps would be to see a speech pathologist. There can be a number of reasons for these delays, so one of the first things the speech pathologist will do is test your child in the following areas: receptive language (what your child understands), expressive language (what your child can say), body language and gestures, and oral motor status (how the anatomy of the mouth works for speech as well as for eating and drinking). After the testing, the speech pathologist will better know what may be hindering your child and will be able to come up with an individual plan for your child to overcome his delays.

In the meantime, there are some things parents can do to help their children develop in the areas of speech and language:

1. Talk with your children. It doesn't matter if your 8 month old really understands what you are saying, but it's in this time that they are soaking up the sounds of your particular language, which will be part of the framework for later use. If you feel odd carrying on a one-sided conversation, simply explain your routines as you do them.
2. Sing silly songs, especially ones with repetitive sounds and noises. Encourage them to try and imitate you.
3. Start reading to your child by the time he is 6 months old. Start out with books with textures and vivid pictures with simple wording. Read and try to engage them - "Do you see the brown cow?" As your child gets older, start reading more predictable books that your child can memorize. Eventually your child will try and pretend to read the book back to you. It's okay that your child is memorizing and not really reading. Memorizing is one of the first steps to reading.
4. Play the name game as soon as your child begins saying their first word(s). Point at items and name them, encouraging your child to do the same.

Lastly, if your child does have a speech delay, don't panic. In most situations, with the right treatment from a speech pathologist, children are back on track within 1-2 years.

Speech Delays - Ages 0-2

Many of us wonder if our children are saying enough words. And, before we know it keeping up with the Joneses of this world begins to make us doubt our own parenting and our own children. We begin to compare how our child is speaking compared to Sally or little Jack, and try to rack our brains to think of any other children we may know in our child's age range.

And, before you know it, you've convince yourself that your child is behind.

Or, maybe you don't. Maybe you think your child is doing just grand, and then one day the pediatrician blows you mind with the news that your child is behind.

The following are some warning signs for language development delay (borrowed from BabyCenter):

Birth to 12 Months

• by 4 months, doesn't imitate the sounds her parents make
• by 6 months, isn't laughing or squealing
• by 8 or 9 months, isn't using sounds to get your attention
• by 9 months, hasn't begun babbling
• at 10 months, doesn't respond to her name
• by 9 or 10 months, isn't letting you know when she's happy or upset

12 to 15 Months

• at 12 months, doesn't use gestures such as waving or shaking her head
• by 12 months, isn't using at least a couple of consonants (p, b, etc.)
• by 12 months, isn't somehow communicating to you when she needs help with something
• at 15 months, doesn't understand and respond to words like "no" and "bye-bye"
• by 15 months, isn't using at least six different gestures (waving, pointing, etc.)
• by 15 months, can't say at least one to three words

18 to 24 Months

• at 18 months, isn't saying at least six to ten words
• by 18 to 20 months, isn't pointing out things of interest, such as a bird or airplane overhead
• by 20 months, isn't making at least six consonant sounds
• at 21 months, doesn't respond to simple directions
• by 21 months, doesn't pretend with her dolls or herself (brushing her hair, feeding her doll, etc.)
• at 24 months, can't join two words together
• at 24 months, doesn't know the function of common household objects — toothbrush, telephone, fork, etc.
• by 24 months, doesn't imitate actions or words of others
• at 2 years, doesn't point to body parts when asked

PS - Don't forget the $100 Giveaway we have going on!!

Heatstroke And Little Ones

I've heard that if my toddler gets too hot, he could suffer heat stroke. What is that?

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a person becomes extremely overheated. Basically, the body's temperature rises while its ability to cool off shuts down. Babies and young children are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Your toddler might get heat stroke if he plays outside in very hot weather, for example, especially if he becomes dehydrated or if he's dressed too warmly. A severe sunburn can also make him susceptible. Leaving him in a parked car — which you should never do — would put him at risk, too. (In fact, heat stroke can occur within minutes in a car, where the temperature quickly climbs much higher than the outside temperature.)

How will I know if my toddler has heat stroke?

Your toddler may first show signs of heat exhaustion, which is milder. These symptoms include thirst, fatigue, leg or stomach cramps, and cool, moist skin.

If heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke, your child may have any of the following symptoms:

• A temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius) or higher — but no sweating

• Hot, red, dry skin

• Rapid pulse

• Restlessness

• Confusion

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Vomiting

• Rapid, shallow breathing

• Lethargy (Your toddler might not respond as strongly as usual when you call his name or tickle his skin, for example.)

• Unconsciousness

You'll also want to watch for signs of dehydration.

What should I do if I suspect my child has heat stroke?

You'll need to bring your toddler's internal temperature down as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence — a child suffering from severe heat stroke can easily slip into unconsciousness.

First, call 911. Then undress your toddler completely and lay him down in a cool area. (If you're outside in the sun, find some shade, but if at all possible, move him into a cool room.) While you're waiting for the ambulance, sponge down his body with a washcloth or rag dipped in cool water, and fan him. (You can use an electric fan or simply fan him with something in your hand, like a magazine.) Talk to him reassuringly to keep him calm. Don't give him anything to drink. And though you may be tempted to give your toddler acetaminophen (Tylenol), it won't lower a temperature caused by heat stroke.

If your child is showing signs of heat exhaustion but it hasn't progressed to heat stroke, bring him indoors — to an air conditioned room, if possible — and give him plenty of liquids (not too sugary or too cold, though, or he might get stomach cramps). You might also give him a cool bath or shower and keep him indoors for the rest of the day. If he doesn't seem to be improving quickly, take him to the doctor or emergency room.

How can I prevent my toddler from getting heat stroke?

Keep in mind that it doesn't take much to bring on overheating, especially if your child is active on a hot day or he hasn't acclimated himself to the hot weather (in the beginning of summer, for example). Dress him in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Make sure he drinks more fluids than usual on hot days and takes frequent breaks. When the temperature is really severe, keep him indoors. (If your home is very hot and you don't have air conditioning, seek comfort at a public library, the mall, or a community shelter provided especially for relief from the heat.)


*From babycenter.com

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Best Of...Babywearing 2008

CARRIER BRAND: Sleepy Wrap
CARRIER STYLE: Wrap
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 8
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 8.5
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 10
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 10
COST: $33.95
WHERE TO BUY: Sleepy Wrap
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We loved the adjustability and softness of this product. Two different people that are completely different sizes can share this wrap, and it will work wonderfully as it can be customized easily to fit anyone.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We can’t really think of anything!
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: This wrap also is GREAT for being outdoors and doing lots of walking, etc. Very snug, very wonderful.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Everyday Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 10
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $48.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We LOVED the large selection of prints. It’s like an awesome new accessory!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: The sizing. Depending on your size and body type, the sizing can be a little off. We’d love to see a new sizing chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We adored the look of this sling. Very chic, machine washable, and a beautiful print! And, as will all of the Hotslings, they offer leg padding for your infant’s comfort.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Designer collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 9
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $60.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Very cute and fresh print.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing Chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS:



CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Reversible Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 7 - would love to see more choices for the reversible slings. (Especially some of the prints they already carry, but made into reversible slings)
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $60.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We liked the fact that one sling could be turned inside out and reused. This was perfect for casual wear or more dressier settings. Plus, if one side gets a little spot on it (before you can get home to wash it), turn it inside out and it still looks fabulous!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: Wish there was as big of a selection in prints as their other collection, but still great.


CARRIER BRAND: Hotslings - Organic Collection
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 7
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 8
COST: $50.00
WHERE TO BUY: Hotslings.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: It’s made of organic material and is still the same trusted Hotslings design!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: Sizing Chart.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We want to be earth-friendly and chic, too! We’d love to see more fun colors/prints in the organic line!



CARRIER BRAND: Modmum
CARRIER STYLE: Pouch
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 9
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 8
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 8
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 7
COST: $64.00
WHERE TO BUY: Modmum.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: The funky designs - and reversible!
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: This sling is not for the really really petite. The smallest size offered is still a little extra roomy for the super tiny ladies.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We’d love to see more design options! Does not have leg padding.


CARRIER BRAND: Maya
CARRIER STYLE: Lightly Padded Ring Sling
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 7
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 6COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 7
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 7
COST: $55.95
WHERE TO BUY: Mayawrap.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: We liked that sling was adjustable in two different places.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: You had to put your baby in and then, it took some time to adjust it properly.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We also weren’t a fan of the fabric selection. They were pretty in a very earthy way, but for those of us that want to sport something more fashionable WHILE carrying our babies, there wasn’t much to choose from.


CARRIER BRAND: Infantino - 6-in-1-rider
CARRIER STYLE: Ergo Baby Carrier
EASE OF USE ( 1TO 10): 3 - The directions left a lot to be desired, and there were an awful lot of snaps and buckles.
FABRIC CHOICE (COLOR/STYLE/FEEL) (1 TO 10): 1
COMFORT LEVEL (1 TO 10): 4
OVERALL DESIGN OF PRODUCT (1 TO 10): 2
COST: Ranges from $15 - $25
WHERE TO BUY: Walmart and Amazon.com
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: It was fairly inexpensive.
LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS PRODUCT/USING THIS PRODUCT: If the snaps are weak (as ours must have been) - even though it was brand new - and your baby is put into the carrier, you could hear some snaps popping. You better be ready to catch them.
OTHER COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS: We don’t recommend this product.

Babywearing: Intro

Babywearing is a constant theme in nature: Kangaroos, Gorillas, Koala Bears - and even some human cultures. In addition to the obvious freeing up of hands that is involved with babywearing, wearing your little one has many other advantages as well. According to Hunziker and Barr in their article in Pediatrics, babies who are carried cry on average 43% less overall and 54% less in the evening hours. And, according researchers such as Barr, Brazelton, Lee, and LeVine, in cultures where babies are carried almost continuously, babies cry much less than those in non-carrying cultures. Additionally, while in a sling or pouch, babies spend more time in a “quiet, alert state” when carried - which is ideal for learning. When carried, your child sees the world from your perspective and can experience the world fully, yet feel safe and secure. Not only does your child experience the world, but studies have shown that they bond with the person carrying them and often become independent at an earlier age.

So, what is babywearing? Babywearing is the term used to describe wearing your baby. Many babywearing devices have been constructed that will allow you to hold your baby in a variety of positions, depending on their stage of life.

Is it too late for me to wear my child? The best ages to wear your child are from infancy to early toddler-hood.

How do I do this? You’ll need a baby sling/pouch/wrap. Later, I’ll go over each type in more detail, so be sure to check back.

What types of activities can I do while wearing my child? You can clean, cook (please be very careful while using sharp and hot objects), hike, shop, play with children, craft, read, and a lot more because your hands will be free. We geocache with ours!

Where can I get my own babywearing “device”? It depends on the type that you want, as there are many different types. Please check back soon for the in-depth article on types of baby carriers and our recommendations for each (and where to buy)!

Sleepy Wrap and Geocaching

Before L was born, Steven and I enjoyed an activity called geocaching - an activity in which you use a GPS system to find caches, or mini- treasures, located at specific waypoints across the globe. It was a fun and incredibly cheap (FREE) activity that combined exploring, physical activity, and treasures. What's not to love?

Unfortunately, having a small child can sometimes put a bit of a damper on the geocaching experience - especially when it involves walking for extended periods of time and up steep hills and loose gravel, walking through poison ivy, and braving things like: creeks, ticks, mosquitoes, and the like! We had thought that we'd have to give up geocaching, unless of course we lined up a babysitter - we had never realized how a simple Sleepy Wrap could change our whole experience.

The Sleep Wrap is a stretchy and soft baby wrap that you methodically tie around your body to create a "nook" for your child. Unlike other wraps, the Sleepy Wrap is not only comfortable, but it can also be worn for many positions and different sized children - from infant to toddler! Oh, and the goodness doesn't stop yet: This is the ONLY wrap I have found so far that will fit both my 5'1" and 87 lb frame AND my almost 6' non-87 lb husband's frame! I love that when I get tired, I can switch the wrap with my husband, and he can wear her for a while. Or, when she stays with her Mimi or Granny - it'll fit them, too!

Sleepy Wrap is wonderful, no matter what you like to do. It's appropriate and comfortable for so many activities! In fact, you might want to try out some new activities once you get your own Sleepy Wrap.

Click here to buy your own Sleepy Wrap, available in many colors.


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Snuzzler by Kiddopotamus

My daughter amazes me in so many ways. Like, when she was younger - how she could sleep in her carseat with her neck all twisted and bent and still MANAGE TO MOVE it at ALL when she woke back up. Amazing, I tell you. But, that HAS to hurt. Ouch. It hurts me just thinking about it.

So, here's a product I wish I would've known about before: The Snuzzler by Kiddopotamus. Made out of soft velboa fabric, in rich shades, it's great for infant car seats, joggers, baby swings, strollers, bouncer seats, convertible car seats, bike trailers, and more!

"Okay, fine," you say, "But, why is this a must?"

Oh, I don't know...there's the fact that the Snuzzler gently supports baby's head, neck, and back for proper posture (read: no more sore neck). Then, there's the fact that the head support can be used separately, or re-attached to the body piece. And, then the Snuzzler fits all harness systems (no need to thread any straps when switching to different car seats, either), it's an award winning design, and was crash tested for safety.

Of course, if all of that's not enough for you... The Snuzzler IS machine washable, too.

Baby's Vision

Age:

1 week - Focuses on objects approximately 8-12 inches away.
Play idea: Try making frequent eye contact with baby, newborns love looking at familiar faces - especially distinguished features like the eyes and hairline (if you have dark hair) and mouth.

1 month - Notices movement, high-contrast in patterns and colors, and some simple patterns.
Play idea: Try a black and white (or blue and white) mobile with large patterns. Don't want to spend the cash? Make your own patterns on cardstock with paper cut-outs and hang them with string - But, use with caution. Be sure string is secure and out of baby's reach and NOT over the crib (or any place a sibling toddler could get the string).

2 months - Follows moving object with eyes - First from side to side, and then up and down.
Play idea: Move a toy back and forth, and up and down - letting baby follow it with their eyes.

3 months - Begins to pick up on colors more clearly.
Play idea: Offer baby toys in bright colors and name them as you go (Blue block. Red ball.).

Games for 3 to 6 Months

Textures. Grab a basket and fill it with things of all textures - cloth, clean sponges, twigs, leaves, etc. And, while supervised, let baby feel each item and describe each feeling as you go (rough, smooth, soft, prickly, etc.) Helps baby develop her sense of touch.

Clink Clunk. Using an empty oatmeal container, place one of baby's small toys inside (while she doesn't see) and close the lid. Shake the container gently and roll it back and forth on the floor to see what noises it makes, saying "What could that be?" Then, while baby is watching, open the can and roll out the toy, saying "Oh! It was you..." Encourages visual and audio tracking, and reinforces the concept that things exist even when baby can't see them.

Tummy Slide. Lay baby on her tummy and place a toy in front of her, just out her reach. Use your hands to press against her feet. She will press her feet against your hands, causing her to slide forward towards her toy. Strengthens baby's upper body and leg muscles and helps prepare her for crawling. Improves problem solving skills.

Talk Back. Use a favorite stuffed toy in front of baby's face, making it dance. When baby begins babbling, with the stuffed animal in front of her face, make the exact same sounds. When baby repeats, use the same sound again and add a few more. For example, if baby says "da!" You might respond "da-da-oh". If baby responds again, be sure to make a big fuss! Encourages baby to vocalize.

Cause and Effect. Puff your cheeks with air and use baby's hands or fingers to press them, blowing air out of your mouth. You can do a variety of things, even adding silly things like having baby grab your finger and sticking out your tongue. Helps baby learn cause and effect.

Wiggle. Turn on some upbeat music and wiggle and shake. Then stop. Wiggle or shake one body at a time, starting with fingertips all the way to your toes. Change the tempo, either speeding things up or slowing things down. Stop, and wiggle your fingers up and down on baby's body. Finish by clapping baby's hands or tapping baby's feet. Improves body awareness and exposes baby to both movement and music.

Ball Play. Using a large inflated ball or exercise ball, put baby on her tummy on the ball. Hold her steady and gently roll the ball slightly backwards and forwards and side to side. Helps develop neck muscles and balance.

Mirror Time. Put baby in front of a mirror and let her play. She won't understand that the baby is her yet, but she'll love that when she does something, so will the baby in the mirror. Helps baby begin to realize what a reflection is.

Games for Birth to 3 months

Expressions. Sit in front of a full-length mirror with baby with a blank look and suddenly change to a smile and say, "Happy!" Then, back to a blank look. Try other expressions, too. Baby won't understand just yet, but he'll love watching you. Benefits include bonding and helps develop eye-tracking abilities.

Tickle Bee. Form a "bee" by placing your thumb and index finger together. Move your bee above baby in swooping circles and then let it swoop down and in a high pitch voice, say "Buzz, buzz, buzz!" and tickle baby. Baby will love the suspense and the gentle tickling. This game will help develop eye-tracking skills and sense of touch.

Tummy Fun. Lie on your back and place baby on your stomach, tummy-side down. With your face just inches away from baby's , make eye contact and sing and talk. Helps baby begin to develop neck and arm strength.

Follow It. Hold a light-weight, brightly colored toy approximately 12 inches from baby's face. Let baby focus and then slowly move the toy side to side and up and down, letting baby track the toy. Helps baby focus and track objects.

Sway time. Hold baby and sway from side to side to music (gently). Enhances baby's awareness of rhythm and melody.

Teething?

Cranky?
Waking in the middle of the night?
Excessive Drooling?
Red, swollen gums?

Your baby may be teething. Babies generally (but not ALL babies, and it's okay if yours isn't) begin teething between 5 to 8 months. If you look closely at the outside of the gums, you can sometimes see a bit of white before the tooth ever pokes through. Sometimes.

Also, in addition to the symptoms above, some babies even experience runny noses (clear) and a very slight fever (not over 99 degrees, usually). If these symptoms show up, be sure to keep tabs on the fever, and if you are ever in doubt, it's always safest to see your pediatrician.

But, what can you do to help your little one feel better?

Try offering baby a cold teething wring or frozen wet washcloth (you can tie a know in one end for them to chew on). You can also try offering baby cool water in a sippy cup or bottle.

Massage their gums with a clean finger (gently but firmly).

Try a topical pain reliever, or ask your pediatrician about using baby Tylenol or Ibuprofen (if they are 6 months or older).

Distraction. Offer baby toys and play their favorite games with them.

And last, comfort your little one. Warm baths, cuddles, and hugs can work wonders on anyone!

Baby Light & Clip

I remember when Baby Girl was just home from the hospital - her nails were long and paper thin. But, holding her hands for very long resulted in a fit and flailing - in only a moment, I'd managed to snip a bit of skin with the clippers. And, I was finished. No more fingernail clippers.

I cringed at the thought of having to cut her nails, and I would sheepishly ask someone else to do it. Occasionally, I'd slip into her room with a file as she slept. Regardless, the task of trimming her nails seemed daunting.

That was, until Baby Light and Clip came into our lives. This nifty invention illuminates the nail and shows where the fine baby nails meet the skin. It also shows any rough edges that should be clipped to keep baby from scratching themselves. And - SAFETY GUARDS! - to keep you from nicking precious skin!

Because it has a built in light, you can use it during the day, or at night while baby's sleeping. Anytime, really!

Finally!

Learn More.

Allergies?

Is your little one having what seems to be allergies now that seasons are changing? Allergies have many of the same symptoms as colds, except there should be no fever present. And, with allergies, the mucous from runny noses should be clear, not yellow or green tinted (which shows signs of an infection). If you are concerned that either you or your child has allergies, you may want to consult your doctor or pediatrician.

In the meantime, there are a few "all natural" things you can try:

-Many common allergens come from pet dander, dust, and foods. So, try examining each of these. A simple skin test can confirm what the culprits are, but with some extensive cleaning and a few diet changes, you may be able to fix the problem.

-Use humidifiers for congestion.

-Don't open windows in your home, especially in your child's room. If you must open a window, use a box fan with a 3M filter attached to the back to help pull in cool air while filtering it at the same time.

-Invest in a neti pot (approximately $13) for yourself and use saline drops for your baby.

-For adults, try 2 drops of therapeutic grade peppermint essential oil on your tongue.

-Keep linens well washed and don't air dry your laundry.

-For children 2 years and older and adults, try LOCAL honey. Local honey is made by bees pollinating local plants, which can help you combat seasonal allergies. (Remember: children under 2 should NOT have honey.)

Our Favorite Things - Age One

Struggling to figure out what to buy for your one year old?

Lorelei loves:Braincandy DVDs!! I can't tell you enough how much I LOVE these DVDs (and L too). We have the Baby Einstein and a TON of other DVDs...but these. She. loves. them. Usually, she'll watch an educational dvd for 10 minutes tops. These hold her attention for 45 minutes STRAIGHT (if we let her). -And, a quick disclaimer...while I don't recommend letting DVDs and the such being the only way your child learns or acting as a babysitter 24/7, they really are OKAY if used sparingly and as learning AIDS (meaning they have hands on learning too). Anyway. These rock.



Board books and cloth books. We technically don't have the one pictured...but I'm sure she'd love that one too! Books are one of her favorite things!
Little People. She loves these things!! She received 2 of these and 2 mini backyardigans from her Granny for Easter and she'll carry them to and fro in her hands EVERYWHERE.
Fisher Price "walker". It's a walker, interactive toy (with music! - and the buttons make lights flash and all sorts of things), has compartments to put toys in and take toys out, ride-on toy, and roll-y toy all in one! She can spend a good hour playing with this thing - and it will grow with her! (It also helps barricade the stairs - haha)



And, this one...well...technically, it's my pick. Although....Lorelei DOES love turning the pages (and trying to rip them out) and will try to carry it around. But, it's up here for YOU. By now you are totally used to and have probably identified most of the child-raising how-to books that are mostly all the same. But, this one is different: It looks beyond the physical differences and stages your child will be experiencing and focuses on the psychological and behavioral stages and development. VERY GREAT book. Focuses on Birth to 3.



****If you are family/friends reading this (for Lorelei's birthday), we already have this entire list - so, I'm not hinting around. ;) HOWEVER, check HERE for the major hints for things she'd love (or, if you want some more ideas for your own little one).