The birthstone for January is the garnet, which represents love and friendship
People born in January are more than just “new year babies” or “winter babies.” According to some studies, they tend to end up in creative or health professional fields and they often stay healthy as they grow up. And, January babies share their special month with many famous people born in January. Does your little one have some of these traits or any that are related to their horoscope? Find out what 2024 has in store for them here.
People Born in January Are Often Creative and Have Good Problem Solving Skills
Sorry, Caps. This one's for the Aquarians. According to a small study, January and February are the right months to be born if you want to be famous. And in this case, "fame" extends well beyond actors on the A-List—we're talking politicians, athletes, scientists, authors, singers, humanitarians, etc. Perhaps this shouldn't be that surprising, given that those born in January and February tend to be more creative and possess higher problem-solving skills.
January Babies Are Smart
iStock
Scientists monitored the development of 21,000 boys and girls, and their research indicates winter-born kids measured longer at birth, were taller and heavier by age seven and had higher scores in a series of intelligence exercises than their peers.
People Born in January Babies Lean Towards Medicine as a Profession
iStock
Get ready for the college long haul, January parents. According to a study conducted in the UK, kids born in the first month of the year become doctors more than kids born in the other months of the year.
The birthstone for January is the garnet, which represents love and friendship. Garnets also have ties to Greek mythology by way of the pomegranate. When Hades, the god of the underworld, took Persephone from the surface world, she was told not to eat any food in the dark realm. However, she ate six pomegranate seeds and therefore had to remain in the underworld for six months every year. The change from winter to spring was explained as Persephone's return to the surface. This is also why the garnet stands for the return of a loved one.
January Baby Names Can Be Inspired by the Zodiac, the Winter Season or New Beginnings
iStock
There are lots of different sources of inspiration when it comes to naming your January baby! Consider naming your baby after the season, Capricorn or Aquarius, or even new beginnings for the new year. Some of our favorites include Sophie, Zane, Kiara, Janus, Onyx, and Ione. See Nameberry's entire list of January baby names here.
January babies share their special month with plenty of famous people, too. Bradley Cooper, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Morris Chestnut, Eddie Redmayne, Mary J. Blige, Issa Rae, Jason Bateman, and Regina King are only a few of the celebrities born in January.
If you haven’t already ditched your gym membership, this list of the best at-home workouts might have you doing just that! With kids at home, finding the time to work out can be a challenge. That’s why working out from the convenience of your own home is the way to go! From Pilates to P90X and everything in between, these (often) free online workout programs will save you the drive to the gym and get you moving towards your fitness goals.
The Sculpt Society's mission to empower women through movement and love their bodies is just one reason to jump into their online program. And when we say "jump," we mean dance! A hallmark offering is their 30-minute Dance Cardio class, but they also offer Yoga and other low-impact classes. You can choose from over 400 live and on-demand classes or choose from a curated collection complete with a flexible guided calendar to keep you on track.
Good to know: An annual membership is $180 after a free 7-day trial. Monthly payment options are also available.
Best for: Anyone who wants to get feel good and get fit while having fun!
From live, instructor-led classes to on-demand workouts, Openfit allows you to stream directly to your phone, laptop, tablet or desktop with structured, daily workouts to fit any lifestyle and fitness level. In-app features also include meal planning and tracking making it a one-stop-shop for achieving fitness goals. Watch for upcoming monthly challenges geared toward busy moms.
Good to know: If you want to check out Openfit before committing to a subscription, you can sign up for a free 14-day trial here!
Recommended by health professionals and moms, Studio Bloom and the Bloom Method is ideal for pregnant women and their post-natal recovery period. Safe and heart-thumping workouts are plentiful, including classes like Cardioprep, prenatal stretching, birth prep, CardioHIIT, CoreHab, CoreFIX and many more––all from the comfort of your own home. And we especially love that they have a dedicated, private Facebook group where you can connect with other moms and get your questions answered by coaches!
Best for: Moms of any stage in life who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Stealth is a clever product that targets 29 muscle groups in three minutes while playing video games! The free app comes with two free games (Glider, a flying game and Galaxy Adventure, a target-blasting space game), and you can upgrade to premium to get more games. We found the two free ones to suffice since you're only doing it for three minutes at a time, and any gravity-controlled game works. Once you've got your games on your device, place the phone in the recessed opening, put yourself in the plank pose and hit play. Now use the Stealth to move up, down and side to side. Games last three minutes, can you?
Good to know: Right now, Stealth is on sale for $99.
Best for: Anyone who wants to work out their core in just three minutes a day!
This online community brings programs from your local YMCA straight to your favorite device. There are live stream and on-demand classes for the entire family, including sports and yoga for the kids! Find out if your branch is participating by entering your zip code here.
With approximately 5000 on-demand workout videos ranging from mat Pilates to reformer and even Barre fusion, there's a class for anyone, anytime! And their custom filters help you find the right workout in just a couple of minutes.
Good to Know: There's a 15-day free trial, then access to the app and website costs $18 per month.
Best for: People looking to strengthen and tone with low-impact workouts.
What's cool about Obé is that they have both live and replay classes (over 4,000!) that are just 28 minutes long and are structured across three pillars: Define, Sweat and Flow. There's also the option to take a 10-minute Express class, which is especially great if you're short on time. In the Sweat category, you'll find dance classes, HIIT, cardio boxing and more. Define classes include Pilates and Barre, and their Flow classes are all about Yoga and stretch. There are three different levels of classes, depending on your fitness level, with tailored programs for all your exercise needs.
Good to know: Obé has two deals at the moment: 2 months for $2 or sign up for a free 7-day trial and then $19 per month after it ends.
Glo is an online yoga, meditation, Pilates and fitness platform that features thousands of professionally-filmed, on-demand classes taught by world-class teachers as well as an interactive community for conversations about health and self-care. Each workout is filmed in an actual studio, and the vibe filters right into to your workout. Each time you log on you’ll be quizzed about your state of mind and what you want out of the workout (Feeling calm? Feeling energized?). Workouts range from five to 120 minutes, and with more than 3,800 videos, your choices are endless. There are options for everyone—beginners, runners and travelers are just a few (There are plenty of classes for expectant mothers and families, too.).
Good to know: You can start working out with Glo today when you sign up for a 7-day free trial. Memberships are as low as $13.50 a month when you pay annually.
Lift for Life's 36-week program is perfect for both pre and post-natal moms. The three times a week, 30-minute workouts are designed to for busy parenting schedules and cover lower, upper and full-body options. The instant download offers over 200 pages of content and a full glossary of exercise, giving you the confidence that usually only comes with a personal trainer at your side.
Good to know: $69.99 for the entire program
Best for: Moms at any stage, even pre-and post-natal!
Serious about your health and fitness goals? Trainiac offers online personal training from start to finish. Complete your intake, pick a trainer, then get your own personal workout program designed by certified trainers. The online platform offers flexibility to meet your busy schedule, with the personal touch of a trainer who has your goals in mind.
Best for: People who are serious about getting fit and want one-on-one accountability and training.
Peloton has long been known for its impressive stationary bike with accompanying on-demand videos that guarantee a great workout. Now the exercise company brings you outdoor, yoga, meditation, strength training, cycling, running and toning options via the Peloton app. Get the full, live studio experience without leaving your home when you use the app on your television, phone or tablet.
Good to know: Snag a free 30-day trial membership here. And no, you don't have to own the bike to participate!
Best For: People who love the feeling of a group workout but can't get to the gym.
Get the workout you want, when you want it with Studio SWEAT onDemand. Access workouts on your computer, smart device, smart TV, Amazon FireTV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Google TV, Playstation, 4Roku, Xbox One (basically any device!) and through the Studio Sweat onDemand app.
Good to know: A year-long all-access pass is $188 per month after a 7-day free trial.
When you join Mindful Movement with Maggie, you get much more than a workout. The platform's at-home 30-minute workouts require no equipment (besides a yoga mat) and focus on low-impact and body-positive exercises for the whole family. Subscribers get weekly tutorials and newsletters, a playlist and access to a private Facebook group to connect with other users. And we absolutely love their motto: All ages. All sizes. All abilities. All bodies.
Good to know: After your 14-day free trial, unlimited access is only $21 per month. We think that's pretty good for the whole family!
V Shred's online fitness programs and customized diet plans are perfect for busy parents who don't know exactly where to start. Users can purchase individual video plans that include workouts for fat loss, toning and six-packs, in addition to a recipe guide and custom training and diet programs. If you join V Shred University, you'll also get a new diet and workout plan every month and access to nutrition and supplement tutorials.
Best for: Busy parents who want a holistic approach to fitness.
Naturally Sassy's Ballet Blast, Monthly Workout and Stretching Programs are just what former (or aspiring!) dancers crave. Joining the online platform provides access to their app, diet guidelines, skill videos, new workouts each week and fresh monthly workouts.
Good to know: Annual memberships are about $9 per month when you pay annually. And, yes, there is a free trial of 14 days!
Best for: People who love dance and desire the lean lines of ballet dancers
Every Mother offers easy-to-follow workout routines ideal for all stages of motherhood: pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. Whether you are trying to keep active during pregnancy, strengthen your core after childbirth or it's been years since you've exercised, this gentle program is as advertised: for every mother! You start with a simple self-diagnosis technique to determine which program is best for you and then proceed to do short sequences each day (typically 7 or 8 minutes) along with a 20-minute workout. The program has also been scientifically proven to resolve diastasis recti, something difficult to find in the world of postpartum workouts.
Best for: Any mother, no matter the stage of motherhood.
If you like the camaraderie (and accountability) of group workouts but time or money make it tricky, FitOn is the app for you. While the app offers a ton of awesome on-demand workouts from world-class trainers, there's also a unique feature that allows you to "join" a class at a specific time. There's even a social component that allows you to interact with friends inside and outside class. But what we like the most is Maddy Curley's FitMama program which helps you get fit post-baby. You won't need any special equipment, and since it's an app, you can download it right to your phone.
Best for: People who like group fitness but can't get to the gym; moms looking to workout post-baby or even with the kids. Anyone!!!
If you’d like to try yoga without the mediational music, Bulldog Yoga is ideal! There’s a wide variety of classes, from hour-long to 20-minute “bulldog bites” that you can fit into any schedule or budget. How is it different from a traditional online yoga program? Each video features yogis from all walks of life at all different skill levels, and each one is accompanied by an energetic, heart-pumping playlist. Some of the online classes start as low as 40 cents a day!
Good to know: Bulldog Yoga has an awesome 30-day trial. After that, the cost is $12.99 when paid monthly.
Best for: People who want an energetic yoga workout.
A team of experts designed Barre3's signature moves to give students a strong and balanced body. Anyone can do Barre3—a mix of yoga, Pilates, cardio and weight training—and instructors encourage their students to adapt the moves to their own needs in order to develop body awareness. You can choose from over 300 different videos (new ones are added every week) that vary from 10- to 60-minutes, get real-time support from instructors, connect with wellness experts, and utilize their new goal planner—schedule workouts, set weekly goals and even set text reminders!
Good to know: Monthly memberships are $29 per month after your 14-day trial ends.
Best dor: People who want to increase strength and balance.
Physique 57 uses a method called Interval Overload—a combo of body resistance moves that target the abs, glutes, thighs and arms. Each workout focuses on strength training, cardio and restorative workouts; there’s minimal equipment needed for the 40+ online videos, and the intensity of the workouts means quick results. There are 10, 15 and 30-minute (and longer) videos available so you can design your workout playlist to fit your needs and daily schedule. There are also two, four, eight and 12-week programs and different themed programs like Best Beach Body, Two Weeks to Hard Core, Lost 10 in 10 and more.
Good to know: After your 7-day free trial, memberships are $25 when paid monthly.
Grokker is a wellness social network. It’s designed for companies who want to encourage wellness among employees and individuals who want to e-meet other like-minded folks on the same journey. There are over 4,000 videos and 70 programs. Choose from popular fitness options like HIIT and Pilates, and access over 130 trainers who guide users in healthy exercise, mindfulness, nutrition, and even sleeping habits. You can find family-friendly recipes, compete against other users and get support—like you’ve got your own virtual trainer!
Good to know: Want to give Grokker a try? You can start with a free 14-day trial!
Best for: Anyone who wants to make healthy living the norm.
When you sign up for Daily Burn, you’ll be joining a supportive online community with an impressive collection of workouts designed and taught by seven top-notch fitness gurus. Every morning you can catch a new workout via live stream (available for 24-hours after), or you can opt to try one of the numerous archived videos. There are 20-plus programs, including dance, high-intensity cardio, strength training and more. The service also offers personalized workout plans. Daily Burn is compatible with a range of devices and streaming services, including Apple TV, Roku, Android and iPad, which makes it easy to work out anytime, anywhere.
Good to know: Daily Burn offers a generous 30-day trial for those looking to give it a try!
Best for: People who need a little extra motivation.
Ballet Beautiful was created by professional ballerina and celebrity trainer Mary Helen Bowers. Opt to tone your bottom half, tighten up your abs and arms or power your way through a full-body workout. You have the option of streaming individual videos (nutcracker workout bundle, supermodel, Ballet Beautiful stretch bundle) or choosing the custom workout plan (unlimited access, two new videos a month, personalized workouts), which has a monthly fee. There’s even a pre-natal option for expectant mamas.
Good to know:Videos range from $9.99 to $49.99 for a bundle or $39.99 per month for a subscription.
BodyLove Pilates was created by a pre-and post-natal pilates guru as she was going through her pregnancy. The workouts are tailored to various stages of pregnancy, and the services have specialized workouts for different needs: what muscles you want to target, any pain you may be feeling, how much time you have, and more. For $25 a month, members get access to a rapidly growing library of 200+ workouts, a step-by-step catalog of Pilates mat exercises (over 100!), detailed anatomical info on what happens in the pre-and post-natal stages, the Postnatal After Birth Training Program and a blog filled with handy tips to get you through each trimester.
There are so many offerings from Booya Fitness that the chances you’ll get bored are slim. There are over 100 boutique classes, different workout plans (clean eating challenge, busy mom workout plan, post-baby bounce back and more), and a blog with tons of healthy living tips. You’ll even get reminder emails to keep you motivated and on the right track.
Good to know: You can opt for a monthly subscription or unlock over 50 workout plans for as low as $2.99.
iBodyFit is ideal for people who need a little structure in their workout. Designed by fitness guru Franklin Antoian, there are three basic options: Fat Burner Plan, Bundle Plan, and Premium Plan. Each one is designed by Franklin, has different fitness goals, and requires just basic equipment. A new addition to the personal trainer programs means that members can now Skype with trainers, nutritionists and even set up a Q&A with a personal trainer.
Best for: People who want an organized workout plan.
Beachbody workouts are available every day, all day! From PiYo to P90X, these on-demand programs offer something for everyone, even those looking for the most challenging workouts like Insanity on-demand. You'll have streaming access to over 600 different videos in addition to healthy-eating plans offered with your membership. Simply download the app and get the whole family moving!
Best for: People who are interested in meal planning as well as workouts. Family-friendly options are available.
Childhood worry seems to be rising as rapidly as COVID-19 cases. More and more children are acting fearful, having trouble sleeping, doing poorly in school, and showing physical symptoms. Does this sound like your child? What if you have you tried everything, but your child is still anxious? What if you already made the Worry Box as described in this article on Tinybeans.com and your child’s Worry Box is overflowing with worries? If so, I have the perfect strategy for you to try called, “Worry Time.”
Like the Worry Box, this technique is so simple and so effective that it should be in every parent’s toolbox. Both the Worry Box and Worry Time strategies are forms of containment or ways to contain worries in both physical space and time. Like the strategies in the book “Shrinking the Worry Monster,” they come from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly regarded form of anxiety intervention. A fuller description of CBT and containment is in the above-mentioned Worry Box article.
Thinking versus Worrying
First, let’s look at the difference between thinking versus worrying. Thinking is a good thing. It can involve reflecting, reasoning, and problem-solving. It can lead to purposeful action which allows the mind to move on.
In contrast, worrying is problem solving gone amiss. What starts out as a concern, can turn into an unhealthy obsession of unresolvable problems. Most chronic worriers believe they cannot control their anxious thoughts. It is as if worriers are caught in a downward spiral where an anxious thought arises, the problem seems unsolvable, and then physical symptoms of anxiety take over. This pattern repeats over and over. It is so emotionally painful that people try anything to avoid the worry thoughts, but that usually doesn’t work. Just look at a picture of a purple cat and then tell yourself that you will not think about that cat for one minute. Chances are you will think about that cat the entire minute.
The good news is that anyone can learn to control how and when to worry. It takes using good, research-based strategies and practice. My favorite tools come from CBT and include talking back to the worry, containing the worry in a “Worry Box,” and using “Worry Time.” The last two strategies contain worries so they aren’t just running amok in the brain 24/7.
Steps for Scheduling Worry Time
The goal for Worry Time is not to stop worries, but to reduce the time spent on the anxious thoughts. The steps are a template for training your child to contain his worries within 15-20 minutes a day. Of course, it will take regular practice, but it is a very achievable goal.
Step 1: Schedule Worry Time
Set up a daily Worry Time where you will listen to your child talk about his worries for 15-20 minutes. Worry Time should be the same uninterrupted time everyday, but not 1-2 hours before bedtime. Late afternoon is often a good time.
Step 2: Explain Worry Time to Your Child
Tell your child that you and he are going to start having a special time together called Worry Time. It will happen from 4:00 to 4:20 (let’s say) and he gets to tell you everything about his worries. You will listen closely, but this is his time to talk. You may not say that any of his worries are silly, but instead you will mostly accept what he has to say. When Worry Time is over (maybe you set a timer), tell your child that you really appreciate all the concerns he has told you and you look forward to Worry Time tomorrow.
Step 3: Teach the One Rule
Teach him that there is only one rule with Worry Time. You will not listen to his worries when it is not Worry Time. You know this will be hard, but you will give him other things to do with his worries. His worries will become smaller because of Worry Time.
Step 4: What to Do When It Isn’t Worry Time
Discuss other ways to contain his worries. He can write them down and put them in the Worry Box, he can write or draw his worries in a notebook, or he can imagine putting them in a safe and locking them up. At the next Worry Time, he should pull out his Worry Box or his notebook and share everything that is in there.
Tell your child that he can also do something else when he is worried (distract). How about going outside, running the stairs, reading a book, or calling grandparents? You and your child can have fun writing down all the things he can do while he is waiting for the next Worry Time. He can also read the children’s book, Shrinking the Worry Monster, to learn ways to talk back to the worry on his own.
Most parents find this strategy seems hard at first, but their child’s worries often dissipate after time. After a few weeks, some kids actually have very few worries to report, but they want to continue their special time with their parents. If your child is very anxious, you might try scheduling Worry Time twice a day at the beginning. Of course, if your child is extremely anxious, please do talk to your health professional about getting outside help. You do not want your child’s anxiety to turn into a serious adult anxiety disorder.
Worry Time is a clever strategy that contains your child’s worries in time. When it is combined with a method to contain the worries in physical space like a Worry Box or a notebook, it is a very powerful anti-anxiety tool. And it is so easy that every parent may want to give it a try. This is such an anxious time for all of us, having anxiety-reducing tools in our parenting skill set seems imperative.
I am a child psychologist who specializes in children's anxiety. I just published a top seller children's book titled Shrinking the Worry Monster, A Kid's Guide for Saying Goodbye to Worries. I love sharing ideas about decreasing worry in children, especially now. I also love to hike and bike in beautiful Pacific NW.
Flu and cold season is in full swing, which means it’s time to stock up on home remedies to help soothe your kids if they catch a cold. From painful headaches to coughs that just won’t quit, these simple ways to treat illness at home will bring your little ones some comfort when they need it the most. From sore throat natural remedies to how to deal with a kids’ stomach bug, keep reading for some natural ways Dr. Mom can save the day.
Headaches can happen for any number of reasons, but one thing is certain—kids and headaches do not mix. If your little is too young for swallowing pills or you prefer a more natural method, creating a homemade headache relief balm will get everyone feeling better in a jiffy. A combination of coconut butter and various essential oils come together to create a soothing balm that is applied to the temples, neck or anywhere you feel a headache coming on.
Ailment: Ear Pain
Karly Wood
Solution: A rice or salt sock
Whether its a side effect from a cold or the flu, or your little one needs a chiropractic adjustment, ear pain is no joke. A simple way to relieve pain in the ear and jaw is by taking a sock and filling with either rice or coarse, sea salt. Add a few drops of lavender oil, and tie off the end. Microwave with caution or heat on a clean skillet, and then lay the warmed sock across the ear and jaw. The rice and salt retain heat exceptionally well and can even help shift the pressure in the ear!
If you are concerned about an ear infection, always check with your doctor.
Ailment: Everyone in the House Is Sick Except You/One Kid
Solution: Wash your hands, up your intake of vitamin C & drink a ton of water (Add probiotics if there's tummy trouble afoot).
It's every parent's worst scenario: one by one, family members fall victim to the dreaded stomach bug/flu/hacking cough. While there's not one thing you can do to guarantee you won't get sick too (besides praying for mom immunity), there are a few tried and true methods recommended by doctors and nurses alike. Number one? Washing hands, like, a lot. Number 2, beef up the Vitamin C intake. Rule number 3? Drink twice as much water as you think you need to. And then another glass. Number 4? If stomach ailments are taking hold, add probiotics to your diet to keep more of the good bacteria hard at work.
Over the counter cough syrups are not recommended for kids under age six. The good news is, honey is as effective as cough syrup at reducing nighttime coughing. The natural antidote is also rich in nutrients and antioxidants, so it's no wonder that honey is also a soothing agent included in many throat lozenges, cough syrups and cough drops. When you look for the best spoonful of honey to give your kids, opt for a local variety of honey that is raw, unfiltered and organic. Dark honey also has more antioxidants and Manuka honey is queen when it comes to delivering the most health benefits.
Warning: Due to the risk of botulism, NEVER give honey to a child younger than age one.
Keeping up with fluid intake is very important when fighting a cold and a fever. When sipping plain water isn't appetizing or causes nausea, serve up one of nature's best hydrating drinks: coconut water. This wonder drink also replaces the body's electrolytes and minerals and causes less stomach upset than electrolyte-enhanced sports drinks. You may not be able to stick a straw straight into a raw coconut, but your grocery store has a variety of bottled coconut water flavors, which makes it easier to find coconut water your kiddo will like. Look for 100% coconut water and avoid added artificial ingredients.
Ailment: Overall Discomfort & Unease
Solution: Diffuse essential oils
It's never been easier to diffuse essential oils for your kid's overall sense of well-being. Young Living has the most adorable kid-centric Ultrasonic Diffusers: Dolphin Reef and Dino Land (which also double as multifunctional nightlights). Both emit their beneficial KidScents oils as color-illuminated vapor and make the perfect addition to your kiddo's bedroom decor. When your little one has a cold, reach for the KidScents essential oil that will best help rejuvenate them based on their symptoms. The collection includes an array of oils that have antiviral and antimicrobial properties such as eucalyptus oil as well as comforting oils such as lavender and ginger root oil. We love SniffleEase™ and TummyGize™ to soothe cold and flu-related symptoms and SleepyIze™ is the perfect blend of oils including Roman chamomile, lavender and valerian root oil to send them off to dreamland at bedtime.
Note: Young Living Essential Oils are not intended to treat, diagnose or cure diseases, but they can support and maintain overall wellness.
Elderberry is a potent, multipurpose remedy found in nature that has been acclaimed for centuries. Its healing powers and immune-boosting properties include reducing symptoms of a cough, sore throat and cold-like symptoms as well as protecting the body from the flu when used preventively. When taken within the first 24-48 hours of illness, elderberry has been found to lessen the duration of the flu by 50%. Arm your family with a bottle of organic GaiaKids Black Elderberry Syrup which you can buy at your local health food store and some drug stores carry it as well. Kids will like the taste of the powerful purple berries condensed into this sweet syrup, but there are plenty of additional creative ways to serve elderberry to your little ones. Check out these clever, helpful recipes which detail how to make elderberry gummies, elderberry slushies and more. GaiaKids also contains organic honey which provides the added benefit of support for the upper respiratory system.
Note: Kids under age one should not take elderberry syrup. Since this product contains honey, it should never be given to a child under the age of one.
A spot of tea is the answer for many ailments. For instance, this cold-busting wellness tea recipe is just what the doctor ordered on the path to recovery. If your kids are nauseous/vomiting or have tummy upset, fresh ginger root and lemon tea will help soothe the stomach while boosting immunity. Not an actual tea per se, the lemon and ginger are served in hot (warm for kids) water to be sipped. Slow boil the sliced ginger root in a saucepan for 15 minutes, turn down to simmer and then add the vitamin C rich juice from half a lemon and let it simmer for 15 more minutes. If your kids need a bit of sweetness, add in a drop or two of honey.
Ailment: Can't Keep Food Down/Throat Hurts Too Much to Swallow
We've all heard about kids sticking to ice chips if they can't keep any food or liquids down or have a bad sore throat. Popsicles offer an appealing way to keep kids hydrated and soothed because they think they're getting a treat. Keeping up with fluid intake can help thin mucus and lessen congestion from a chest cold. You can either make your own popsicles using fruits and veggies or pick up a box of 100% fruit popsicles at the store.
You may have heard of putting your child in a lukewarm bath to bring his/her fever down, but did you know that adding a cup of apple cider vinegar to the bath water is a decades-old natural fever reduction remedy? If your kiddo isn't feeling up for getting in the tub, you can also place several drops of apple cider vinegar on a warm, damp washcloth or warm compress and lay it across your child's forehead.
Good to know: Apple cider vinegar also helps prevent the cold/flu virus from settling in your kiddo's system for the long haul. Treat your kiddo with a tasty version like the one from Sour Lemon Beverage Co. Slurp down raw ACV easily with flavors like Limeade and Strawberry Lemonade and enjoy a happy gut at the same time.
Peppermint has long been used to soothe stomach ailments: upset stomach, mild nausea, stomach cramps and even IBS. It can be served iced or hot, depending on the kid and even a mild tea is effective. One word of caution: peppermint can exacerbate heartburn so avoid using it if the stomach ailments are coming from obvious indigestion rather than a bug.
Ailment: Blocked/Stuffy Nose
Solution:Nasal aspirator/Saline spray
When your baby is too young to blow his/her own nose during a cold, a nasal aspirator is a God-send (Hello Nose Frida!). Keeping those tiny nostrils clear by removing mucus so baby can breathe freely will make him/her much more comfortable. Choose an easy to clean aspirator that you're comfortable using to get the job done quickly.
Older kids can find relief in nasal saline spray or drops that can be placed up their nostrils to clear passageways and relieve stuffiness. Once you administer the spray, have your child gently blow his/her nose to remove mucus.
Ailment: Difficulty Breathing While Lying Down
Dolapo Falola via Flickr
Solution: Cool mist humidifier
In addition to propping your kid's pillows so they can sleep in a more upright position to achieve easier breathing, a cool mist humidifier will help break up mucus, relieve congestion and coughing and provide humidity in the air which can help keep nasal and throat passages hydrated. Additionally, the humidity also aids in fighting the flu virus by decreasing its chance of survival in the air and on surfaces. (source)
When you use natural ingredients, you don't have to worry about any of the icky, harmful additives like petroleum and hydrogenated oils and GMOs found in many OTC cold remedies for kids. We love Maty's All Natural Vapor Rub for Children and All Natural Baby Chest Rub for babies because they are formulated with age-appropriate dilutions of essential oils that safely and effectively relieve symptoms of coughing and stuffiness. Maty's line of cough syrups (powered by potent honey) that target a variety of cold symptoms also get a big thumbs-up from us for relying on the power of nature to bring relief to babies and kids.
Disclaimer: We are not health professionals. These are simple solutions you can try at home to relieve cold symptoms. The content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always check with your child’s doctor for the best course of treatment for their ailment.
Pregnant or have a newborn? Chances are you’re on the shopping spree of your life. From diapers to nursing supplies to maternity wear, your credit card is getting a workout. But, before you swipe one more time, we’re letting you in on a little secret: many resources and products for new and expectant moms may be covered by your health insurance. Read on for five surprising things you might not know are taken care of by your insurance plan.
1. Breastfeeding Support & Supplies
Motif Medical offers a trio of breast pumps in varying designs that accommodate a variety of mothers’ needs at work and on-the-go. The Luna, their most powerful pump, features a quiet motor and helps pump more milk in less time. The Duo or “savvy traveler” is a lightweight pump that fits in one hand and conveniently slips into any bag. And, the Twist is their “affordable portable” breast pump that’s sturdy, economical and features a portable power option for a simple pumping experience while out and about. All three streamline the pumping process to make it easier for moms to manage breastfeeding.
In addition to breast pumps, Motif Medical also offers breastfeeding supplies including a stylish backpack or tote bag, replacement supplies, milk storage and nursing pads. Check your insurance to see exactly what they cover.
2. Prenatal Vitamins
It’s important to take prenatal vitamins both before and after baby is born (if you are nursing) to ensure you and your growing baby are getting the sufficient amounts of minerals and vitamins you need for optimum health. Many insurance plans cover prenatal vitamins and folic acid supplements and/or you can pay for them by taking advantage of your tax-free flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). Be sure to check your coverage to see if your vitamins and supplements are eligible.
3. Compression Garments
Motif Medical literally supports expecting mothers and new moms with their comfortable collection of compression garments. Compression garments are FDA-listed medical devices that in addition to helping speed up recovery, also shape and firm your postpartum belly, hips, waist, pelvis, and lower back. Compression garments also provide comfort during pregnancy as well.
Motif Medical offers three types of compression garments:
Their breathable and discreet Pregnancy Support Band provides relief and support during everyday activities during 3-9 months of pregnancy by relieving pregnancy-related pressure from the abdomen, hips, and lower back to reinforce the body’s core.
Postpartum, Motif has new moms covered as well, with their Natural Birth Recovery Garment and their C-Section Recovery Garment. Both are designed by healthcare professionals to aid in healing and help recovery by stabilizing joints, reducing pain, and increasing mobility. The C-Section Recovery Garment also features a side zipper for ease of use and to avoid pulling fabric over an incision.
Birthing classes help prepare you physically, mentally and even emotionally for one of the most important days of your life. There are so many different types of childbirth education classes available––from Lamaze to The Bradley Method––and you’re sure to find classes you’re comfortable with to get the information you need. You’ll be happy to have the foresight and knowledge you’ve garnered once labor begins. Birthing classes are often covered by insurance, so be sure to check with your insurance company to get a list of classes on your plan.
5. Alternative Medical Treatments Like Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been shown to relieve nausea, headaches, lower back pain, depression and even labor pains, so many women are turning to this ancient healing art to soothe symptoms during pregnancy. Ask your insurance provider what your coverage is for alternative medical treatments. Even if they don’t pay in full, they may offer discounts on services or have a list of providers they consider in-network.
Motif Medical’s goal is “to help you discover your options, support your body, and bond with your baby.” They’ve got your back, and your best interest in mind, during one of the most pivotal times of your life. Visit Motif Medical online at motifmedical.com for more information.
Disclaimer: We are not health professionals. The content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always check with your doctor for the best course of treatment and with your insurance company to see what is covered under your insurance plan.
It’s not just how much screen time kids have that matters, but also when they have it. According to new research, screen time before bed can have a negative impact on sleep in preteens.
The study found that using phones, tablets and laptops at night is consistently linked with poor sleep quality and insufficient sleep, which previous studies have shown can lead to impaired immune responses, depression, anxiety and obesity in kids and teens.
Collecting data on the screen habits of 6,616 kids ages 11 and 12, the researchers found that more than 70 percent reported using at least one screen device within one hour of their bedtime. The study concluded that those who used a phone or watched television in a room with a light on were 31 percent more likely to get less sleep than those who didn’t use a screen. That risk increased to 147 percent if the screen time took place in the dark.
“While previous research has shown a link between screen use and the quality and length of young people’s sleep, ours is the first study to show how room lighting can further influence this,” Dr Michael Mireku, lead author and a researcher at the University of Lincoln’s School of Psychology.
He continued, “Our findings are significant not only for parents but for teachers, health professionals and adolescents themselves. We would recommend that these groups are made aware of the potential issues surrounding screen use during bedtime including insufficient sleep and poor sleep quality.”
We’ve all been there: It’s midnight and you’re Googling “small bumps on baby’s arm” or “round itchy rash.” Next thing you know, you’re trying to figure out whether you should rush to the emergency room immediately. After all, it might be “dermatitis” but it could be a flesh-eating bacteria.
Fortunately Google is improving its algorithm, so we can perform a better self-diagnosis (and hopefully stop worrying about throat cancer when all we have is a cold).
This new algorithm will give users a list of related conditions when they search their symptoms. It will also give an overview description for individual symptoms and include self-treatment options. Additionally, the medical terminology will be translated into simpler terms for us, non-health professionals, to understand.
So the next time you’re worried about your “child with ankle pain” a Google search will be a more helpful place to start.
Are you a frequent patient of Dr. Google? Tell us in the comments below!