Tips and Tricks for Parents

Tips and Tricks for Parents – An Introduction

When raising your child, you will certainly encounter many questions to which you do not yet know the answers. Especially if you’re a first-time parent, you may not yet know how to properly breastfeed your little one, how to help them with a cold, how to dress them properly in winter or treat a hip dysplasia that may be present.
With a small child, you also have to adapt learned routines such as weekly shopping or holiday planning in order to create a stress-free environment for everyone involved.
Also, as the months and years go by, you will want to make Easter and Christmas more active as your child grows and wants to explore the world.
You may also be thinking about having another child or wondering if a four-legged friend is the right companion for your loved one.
The first years of child development are incredibly exciting and sometimes exhausting for you and your little one. But with various tips and tricks you can make this wonderful time exciting and enjoy it together.

How Do I Make My Baby Laugh?

You probably know the saying “laughter is healthy”. It is particularly true for babies and toddlers, as around 300 muscles are used for a baby's laughter. Happy hormones are also released during a hearty laugh, which have a positive effect on the physical development of your little darling.

This is not the only reason why it’s important that you laugh together with your baby. It's also important for your child's emotional health that you smile at them and laugh back as much as possible from day one. You will also strengthen your parent-child bond by laughing together.
You can also strengthen your baby's smile by listening to nursery rhymes, singing together and supporting them with little finger plays, or letting them dance along on your lap.

Tickling is also a classic way to make a baby giggle, but always be gentle and mindful of their sensitivity. Peek-a-boo games are another fantastic way to bring about smiles, as the surprise element often delights little ones.

Silly noises and playful sounds, like animal impressions or even blowing raspberries on their tummy, can bring a burst of laughter. Babies also enjoy seeing familiar faces, so spend time talking to them with a high-pitched, enthusiastic voice. This can often cause them to mimic your smiles. Gentle movements like bouncing them on your knee, or swaying side to side while singing a nursery rhyme, can create both smiles and giggles.

Make sure your baby is well-rested, as an overtired baby is less likely to be in the mood for play. Most importantly, be patient, as each baby develops at their own pace, and some may take a little longer to show their laughter.

How to Make your Baby Smile

Baby Care: What Does My Baby Really Need?

When you leave the hospital with your baby and arrive home, it becomes your responsibility to care for your baby on your own. In the early days, your aftercare midwife can show you the most important steps and give you valuable tips.

Your sweetheart needs to be changed, bathed and washed regularly. In the first few weeks, navel care also plays a role and there are also a few things to consider when cutting baby's nails.
During the first attempts, the handles when changing nappies may still be a bit uncertain, but don't worry.

Routine will quickly set in at the changing table, because your baby's nappy should be changed every three to four hours and, of course, after every bowel movement. It’s best to use lukewarm water and a washcloth for cleaning. It’s very important that your baby's bottom is dried thoroughly afterwards so that it doesn’t become sore. In order to make changing your baby as comfortable as possible, you should make sure that they don’t freeze.

So-called heat lamps, which can be attached above the changing table, are particularly suitable for this. When you are out and about with your baby, wet wipes are very practical for changing nappies. In general, you shouldn’t necessarily go to care products such as powders and lotions, as these can also lead to skin irritation.
Bathing your baby once or twice a week is enough. Additionally, bath additives are not necessary. The room in which you want to bathe your baby should be warm and the little ones feel most comfortable with a water temperature of 37 degrees. A bath thermometer is suitable for checking the water temperature.

A conventional baby bathtub or alternatively a bath bucket is ideal for bathing. In the bath bucket, your baby sits in a crouch and therefore has more support.
The aftercare midwife usually helps the parents with the navel care. Hygiene is the top priority here. Before cleaning the navel, you should always wash your hands and carefully dab any liquid in the navel region with a dry cloth.

A compress prevents germs from reaching the navel. After about five to ten days, the remainder of the navel has dried up and eventually falls off. This leaves a small wound, which you should dab carefully with a cotton swab once a day. This small wound does not hurt your baby and usually heals quickly.

However, if redness occurs around the navel or if blood or pus leaks out, you should take your baby to a paediatrician, as it could be an infection of the navel.
You shouldn’t cut your baby's fingernails for the first time before four weeks after birth. For this you use baby nail scissors that have rounded tips.

By then, many babies' nails are so long that they scratch themselves. To avoid this, you can best pull baby gloves or socks over their hands.

Baby Care

Protecting Your Baby’s Skin

Pet Yes or No?

When faced with the decision of whether to add a pet to your family, it should not be taken lightly. Because it’s important that you are aware of your responsibility towards this living being.

Even if the new fluffy roommate is super interesting at the beginning and your child assures you that they will take care of it every day, you as a parent always have a responsibility. After all, an animal must also be cared for when it is sick or when your child is busy with other things.

The new companions often become uninteresting after just a few weeks. That's why it's important that you make the decision together whether you want to take in a new roommate and don't just make it dependent on the child's wishes.

Dogs and cats are at the top of the wish list but require a lot of attention. Smaller rodents are usually much easier to care for and more child-friendly than a cat or dog. Therefore, a guinea pig or golden hamster is often recommended as a so-called entry-level pet. An alternative are dwarf rabbits, which are ideal petting animals for small children and are easy to care for.

Shopping with Children: Tips for Stress-Free Shopping

Whether it's for the weekly shop or a short trip to the supermarket - for children, a shopping trip is often as exciting as a trip to Disneyland.

For parents, the shopping spree often means a nerve-racking test - especially when their own child stops at every corner and puts a number of sweets in the shopping trolley. In the worst case, the shopping spree ends with pouting faces or whiny children who don't want to wait any longer at the checkout. But that doesn’t have to be the case: the “supermarket adventure” can be tackled in a relaxed manner with children if you follow a few basic rules.
Here are some tips to avoid stress:

Children should be full and rested, so go shopping after eating and bedtime.
Avoid large supermarkets and peak times, as this overwhelms the children.
Do the big shopping without children and take the little ones with you on smaller purchases during the week.
Small rewards such as letting the children choose their own food when shopping or stopping at the playground on the way back.

Involve children when they are old enough. Let them look for certain goods themselves in the store or help put them on the conveyor belt. My boys love using the fruit and vegetable scales, for example.

Important: If your child nevertheless has a fit of screaming or behaves badly, the motto is to remain headstrong . Of course, staying calm when your child is crying or screaming is easier said than done.

Nevertheless, you should always remember that you are not doing your child any favours if you constantly let everything go and never say no. Even if your child throws themselves on the floor and whines, you should stick to your agreed rules and communicate this in a calm but firm tone ("we said we'd just pick one chocolate together").

If your child still can’t be reassured, it’s good to explain why sweets don’t end up in the shopping trolley. Does the chocolate damage your teeth or do you already have dozens of bars lying around at home? Children often show understanding as soon as they are given a reason. Conversely, you should also show understanding for your child.

Sometimes even we adults find it difficult to resist certain "temptations" from the shelf. Children, who sometimes cannot fully understand or control their emotions and actions, are even less able to do so.

Did the bulk purchase work wonderfully with your child? Then nothing speaks against giving the child positive feedback. Let your little one know that you're happy about their "help" and offer a small reward. This doesn't necessarily have to be an unhealthy candy bar. Instead, your child will certainly be just as happy about an "extra" round on the playground. Many children also love it when they can help unpack and put away the goods.

Shopping with Children

How Can My Baby's Hip Dysplasia Be Treated?

When new parents learn from the paediatrician that their little darling is suffering from a hip deformity, they are shocked at first as it’s actually assumed that older people tend to struggle with hip problems. Hip problems in babies and children are not as rare as you might think.

How a hip deformity is treated depends on its severity. In the case of a slight delay in hip maturation, with which around a quarter of all babies are born, no therapy is often necessary. Here it’s often enough for the parents to wrap their baby more broadly using a second nappy or a molleton cloth.
However, consistent therapy is particularly important for both hip dysplasia and hip dislocation in order to prevent long-term effects.

If hip dysplasia is not recognised and left untreated, it leads to premature joint wear in adulthood. Those affected suffer from severe pain due to the wear and tear of the articular cartilage and then often need an artificial hip at an early stage.

To treat hip dysplasia in babies, a so-called flexion-spread splint is usually used, with the help of which the legs are brought into a bent and slightly spread position.

This forces the femoral head into the socket and promotes maturation of the joint. This splint must then be worn around the clock for a certain period of time (usually for a few weeks or even months). It should only be removed for changing and bathing.

A hip dislocation requires the hip to be relocated, which is usually done under general anaesthetic.

After a hip fracture, the baby must wear a sit-squat cast for a few weeks to keep the hip joint in the correct position.

How Do I Praise My Child Correctly?

One of the reasons many adults aren't good at receiving sincere praise is that they didn't learn how to do it as children. Of course, it's important that you reassure your child about what they're doing. However, you should keep a few things in mind so that your positive gesture does not have any negative effects later.

You can base your praise on your child as a person or on the child's achievement. Personal praise is for example "You did a great job!"

This can lower your loved one's self-esteem instead of boosting it. Studies have found that children who received personal praise were less able to cope with failure afterwards.

Also, with this type of feedback, you describe the skills your child already has and don't include the learning process in which they learn new skills. This can give them the impression that you don't trust them much.

As a result, your well-meaning and motivating praise can have an unsettling and demotivating effect on your child, as it assumes that they cannot change any losses. In this way, an "I just can't do it" can get stuck in their head and have a lasting effect on their ability to learn.

Another trap you can fall into is comparing your child to their siblings. If you tell them that they drew a picture much more beautiful than their brother or sister, for example, they may well see constant competition in everything they do.

This can make your child a bad loser. Personal praise can therefore have a negative effect on their self-confidence.

How to Keep Your Baby Cool During Hot Summer Nights

Dress your baby lightly in breathable, lightweight cotton clothing, such as a short-sleeved bodysuit, breathable muslin sleeping bags or nappy-only for warm nights.

Use a fan to circulate air in the room, but make sure it’s not blowing directly on your baby.

Close the curtains or blinds during the day to block out heat and keep the room cooler in the evening.

Ensure your baby's cot is placed away from draughts to avoid direct airflow making them uncomfortable.

Offer a little extra water before bed for babies older than six months to keep them hydrated.

Place your baby for naps in cooler rooms or well-ventilated areas.

Consider placing a damp, cool cloth near the fan to lower the room temperature.

Try to schedule naps and bedtime during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

Leave your baby’s head uncovered while they sleep to help release heat.

Cool the cot down by placing a frozen water bottle in it before bedtime, removing it before your baby sleeps.

Check your baby regularly for signs of overheating, such as sweating or flushed cheeks.

Ensure your baby’s mattress allows for good ventilation to regulate body temperature. Avoid using plastic mattress covers that can trap heat and make your baby uncomfortable. Use light, cotton sheets or muslin cloths in the cot for better airflow.

Hot Summer Nights

Tips for Camping with Babies and Toddlers

First, choose a family-friendly campsite with amenities like clean toilets, showers, and shaded areas. Be mindful of the weather and pack appropriate clothing layers to keep your little one warm or cool depending on the conditions. A well-prepared campsite will make a huge difference in how relaxed everyone feels.

Bringing a portable cot or bassinet can help your baby sleep better and feel more secure. Additionally, creating a familiar sleeping environment by bringing along your child’s favourite blanket, sleep sack, or even a small nightlight can make bedtime smoother. This familiarity helps with settling down after a day of outdoor adventures.

A well-stocked first aid kit, including child-friendly medicines and sun protection, is essential. Accidents happen, and the outdoors can be unpredictable, so having all the necessary items on hand will provide peace of mind. Keep meals simple by opting for easy-to-cook or pre-prepared foods, and ensure you have plenty of snacks and water to keep energy levels up, both for you and your children.

When it comes to activities, plan for flexibility. Toddlers may tire easily or get overwhelmed, so having quiet time options like books or small toys is helpful. Setting up a safe play area with a portable playpen or a large picnic blanket gives your child a secure space to explore the outdoors, allowing them to be curious while staying safe.

Tips for Camping

Camping with Kids

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day in Ireland is a cherished occasion dedicated to celebrating mothers and mother figures for their care, love, and sacrifices. It is observed on the fourth Sunday of Lent, typically falling in March. The origins of Mother’s Day in Ireland are tied to the Christian tradition of "Mothering Sunday", where people would visit their 'mother church'. Over the years, the religious significance has diminished, and the day is now focused on appreciating mothers in a more personal and family-oriented way.

On this day, children in Ireland often present their mothers with cards, flowers, and small gifts to show their love and gratitude. Popular flowers such as daffodils and tulips are often given, as they are in bloom during the spring season. Many families also take the opportunity to prepare a special meal for their mother, allowing her to relax and enjoy the day. It’s common for families to go out for a Sunday lunch, or to cook a nice dinner at home.

Despite individual family traditions, the essence of Mother’s Day in Ireland remains consistent: showing thanks and appreciation for the hard work, love, and care that mothers provide every day.

What Mums Want for Mother’s Day

How Do I Successfully Wean My Baby?

Weaning a baby off the breast can be made smoother with a few practical tips. First, choose a calm and quiet time for introducing the bottle or cup when the baby is neither too hungry nor too tired. Start by replacing the least preferred breastfeeding session, such as midday, and leave the favourite, like night-time, for last.

Offering the bottle or cup when the baby is already content and relaxed may increase acceptance. It can also help if someone else offers the bottle initially, as babies may associate mum with breastfeeding. Try different bottle nipples or cups to see what the baby prefers, as some may reject certain types at first.

For mothers, wearing clothing that doesn’t allow easy breastfeeding access can signal to the baby that breastfeeding is no longer an option. Also, gradually reducing the length of breastfeeding sessions before removing them completely can ease both physical discomfort and emotional separation.

Lastly, introduce comforting activities like reading a book or singing a lullaby during feeding times to create new bonding rituals. Remember that patience and flexibility are key, and not all babies wean at the same pace.

Weaning Baby Off Breast

How to Keep Kids Entertained This Half Term?

Half term in Ireland offers a great opportunity for families to spend quality time together, and there are plenty of practical tips to make the most of it. First, plan ahead by checking local events in your area, as many museums, zoos, and parks offer special half-term programmes for children. Booking tickets in advance can help avoid disappointment, especially for popular attractions.

For outdoor activities, consider Ireland’s beautiful natural spots. A visit to national parks, such as Killarney or the Wicklow Mountains, is perfect for family hikes and picnics. Be sure to pack weather-appropriate clothing.

Explore Dublin Zoo: Book a family day at Dublin Zoo, where kids can learn about wildlife and enjoy special half-term events.
Visit an Adventure Park: Try places like Clara Lara Funpark or Tayto Park for outdoor fun with rides, obstacle courses, and picnic spots.

National Museums: Head to the National Museum of Ireland, which often runs free, child-friendly workshops during half term.
Rainy Day Option: For bad weather, take the kids to a local trampoline park or indoor soft play area like Jump Zone or Kidspace.
Nature Walks: Visit places like Glendalough or Phoenix Park for short, family-friendly hikes. Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
Cinema Trip: Many cinemas, like Omniplex, offer half-term kids' screenings at discounted rates.

Creative Workshops: Check local arts centres or libraries, such as Dublin City Libraries, for arts and crafts workshops, many of which are free.
Baking Day: Stay in and get the kids involved with baking simple recipes like scones or cookies – great for rainy afternoons.

Half Term Activities

Here you can find more blog articles on the topic of Tips & Tricks for Parents:

Skin Problems and Eczema in Babies

Tips to Relieve Your Teething Baby

How to Stop a Baby Crying

Spotting and Treating Nappy Rash

Fever in Babies and Young Children

Holidays at Home

Baby's First Halloween

Planning Your Holiday With the Kids

Swimming With Your Baby

How Can I Keep My Baby Calm While Travelling?