Tips for Hiring a Babysitter

April 29, 2010

Guest post by Candi Wingate, Founder of and Care4Hire.com and Nannies4Hire.com

Tips for Hiring a Babysitter



Choosing who will care for your child when you are away is one of the most important decisions we make as parents, and peace of mind that your child is safe and happy is top priority. Long gone are the days when finding a babysitter was dependent on word of mouth. Today, services like Care4Hire.com provide a massive database for everyone to find their perfect child care match with just the click of a mouse. With such a vast array of qualified candidates at your fingertips, here are a few tips to help make the process easier.

Make a list of your requirements.
Before you start the interview process, it’s a good idea to figure out what you’re looking for in a babysitter. Think about the hours you require, the amount of experience you’re looking for, the type of childcare philosophy, and whether any household duties will be involved.

Do your homework.
Your child’s safety is top priority. Conduct background checks and thoroughly check references.

Ask the right questions.
These could include things like the number of years she has had as a childcare provider, what type of training has she had, what ages has she dealt with, and what her ideas are on childrearing.

Include your child.
It is best to conduct initial interviews without your child present. There is no need to confuse your son or daughter by introducing him or her to multiple caregivers who they will likely never see again. Introduce your best candidate to your child and observe how they interact together. Does the babysitter actively engage him or her? Is she keeping your child entertained?

Be clear about discipline.
The babysitter must be able to relate with your family and administer discipline to your children in a manner that is appropriate and consistent with your family’s boundaries. You and your babysitter should discuss, prior to hiring, the discipline style that your family would like the babysitter to use.

Explain boundaries.
The babysitter should be capable of handling small “crises” on his/her own. You and your babysitter should come to an agreement about what issues may warrant a call to you and what issues the babysitter is authorized to handle on his/her own. Your babysitter should be able to act comfortably within the boundaries you have provided.

Finding the right babysitter for your child is a critical decision. Take your time and be picky in your choice. Ideally, this babysitter will be in your child’s life for as long as possible so they can form a long lasting relationship and truly enjoy their time together.

Candi Wingate is an expert in the child care industry with over 20 years experience. She is the founder of Nannies4Hire.com and Care4Hire.com, and author of 100 Tips for Nannies & Families and mother of two.

Are You Fertility Fit? 
The 5 Secrets To Optimum Fertility Fitness At Any Age

April 5, 2010

Guest Post By Gabriela Rosa, Founder of Natural Fertility & Health Solutions



Are You Fertility Fit? 
The 5 Secrets To Optimum Fertility Fitness At Any Age

So you want to have a baby! This is an exciting time and here are some important facts that will get you up to speed on the do's and don'ts to guarantee your best chances of having the healthiest possible baby, at any age.
A healthy body is a fertile body and the health of your baby is in great part decided before a pregnancy is even in sight. You see, by 8 weeks gestation a baby's health blueprint is already created, as are his or her tiny organs and little fingerprints! At this stage his or her health vulnerabilities and strengths are set by the 'map' guiding this miracle of creation. It is fair to say that once a pregnancy is established your child's health potential becomes the lowest common denominator of you and your partner's health at the point of conception.
So, how do you give your child, the best possible start in life? It's simple. Ensure you your partner are in optimum health by beginning the preparation for your most important event yet, at least 120 days prior to a conception attempt.
Here's why...The quality of the egg and sperm today is the reflection of everything that was happening in your life and immediate environment over the previous 4 months. Your complete health picture during that time including nutrition, stress levels, blood oxygenation, hormone levels, emotions and other factors affect the quality of your fertility in the current month.
Studies show that being fertility fit, where both prospective parents actively prepare for a healthy pregnancy will not only improve your chances of having a healthy baby, it will also reduce the chances of miscarriage, congenital abnormalities, pregnancy complications, prematurity and still births. In addition, British research reveals an 81 percent success rate in conception for previously infertile couples, and for those who require IVF the same approach has been shown to increase the chances of conception through IVF by 47.1 percent.
The initial step in your preparation, just like in any sport is to find out how 'fertility fit' you are now, so you can measure and monitor your progress. For men, this includes having a semen analysis at a specialist fertility clinic. This is the most effective way of saving time and potential heartache right upfront--if there are any issues, they can often be very easily addressed naturally during the preconception period with excellent results. For women, having hormonal levels checked, and sometimes also a pelvic ultrasound that can show fallopian tube clearance, will help to rule out any potential problems that may prevent you from falling pregnant quickly after your preparation. For a head start, you and your partner's combined preparation should include visiting your GP for a general health check-up as well as a way of ruling out any possible infections (particularly of the genito-urinary tract), which if left untreated can cause i nfertility and pregnancy complications including miscarriage.
So what are the 5 secrets to optimum fertility fitness?
Let Go of Lifestyle and Fertility Poisons

Yes it is true... Although caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes and recreational substances are common companions in most people's lifestyles, they are all toxic to your fertility and above all your prospective child. Research concludes that as little as very minimal and sporadic consumption of coffee or alcohol has been shown to dramatically decrease fertility in men and women. Thus, complete avoidance during the preconception preparation period, pregnancy and lactation is definitely in your prospective family's best interest. In cases of addiction be sure to seek professional assistance to quit unhealthy habits if necessary.
The Fertility Diet

The best fertility diet is one based on organic, seasonal, local produce that is as fresh and as unprocessed and closest to their natural state as possible. If you are unsure of what to eat, focus on fresh vegetables and fruits and good quality organics meats. Basing your meals on vegetables and protein and avoiding dairy and gluten containing foods as much as possible can improve your odds of conception. This reduces the chances of allergic reactions and excessive mucus and inflammation, which can hinder reproductive function. Studies also show that gluten can have a negative impact on ovulation and for most people it can decrease the absorption of essential nutrients.
Good Quality Supplementation

I am often asked the question: "If I am eating a healthy diet surely I don't need supplements, right?" Wrong. This may have been true at some point during human existence, but it is not so now. Today our bodies are faced with more toxins, pollution, nutrient deficient foods and soils, stress, radiation and many other physical and emotional conditions which more than ever increase our body's nutrient requirements. However, be aware that not all supplements are made equal and just because a particular brand may be popular and well marketed it does not mean it is the best product for you. Seek professional advice before starting any new supplementation regime so you don't short change yourself and compromise your results.
Exercise and Rest

Both over-training and under-training will have a negative impact on your fertility, in the same way that being overweight or underweight will also decrease your chances of conception. The key is to strive for balance. Five to six moderate training sessions per week is ideal for maintaining optimum health whilst naturally boosting fertility. Plentiful rest and quality sleep will also be essential for achieving peak fertility fitness. If you are having difficulty falling asleep, your sleep quality is poor, or you are not making the time to get enough sleep, there are plenty of effective, natural solutions to choose from and help is quick at hand. A competent and qualified naturopathic practitioner or medical herbalist will definitely be able to help.
Avoid Chemical Exposure

Chemical exposure to environmental toxins, pesticides, household cleaning and pest control all have been shown to disrupt endocrine function, which is responsible for hormonal balance, optimum fertility (in men and women) as well as normal baby development in the womb and during early childhood (when kids are most vulnerable). Such chemicals are capable of damaging general health (and fertility) in the womb and throughout life. The answer: choose completely safe, chemical-free alternatives for the products you use in your home; buy organic foods wherever possible; avoid plastics and synthetic materials as much as you can and prioritise a natural lifestyle to optimise your health and fertility.
In today's world we are literally surrounded by toxins and pollutants that can negatively impact our health and fertility. For as many substances we know that have a definite negative effect on our health and fertility, there are hundreds or even thousands that we are not even aware exist and some, which are close to, or simply unavoidable. The great news is that our bodies have amazing self-healing mechanisms and the smallest changes can yield magnificent results despite some unchangeable environmental factors. So take control. Maximize your fertility fitness and your chances of creating the healthy baby of your dreams by making the changes that count now towards your desired result, irrespective of your age.

Natural fertility specialist and naturopath Gabriela Rosa (BHSc, ND, Post Grad NFM, DBM, Dip Nut, MATMS, MNHAA) is the founder and director of Natural Fertility & Health Solutions clinic and the author of four books, including 'Eat Your Way To Parenthood: The Diet Secrets Of Highly Fertile Couples Revealed'. For more information or a FREE subscription to the Natural Fertility Booster please visit www.NaturalFertilityBreakthrough.com.

DON’T Throw Out the Trash!

July 9, 2009

By Nicole Mabry, Itsabelly Atlanta Baby Planner

The old adage, "One man's trash is another man's treasure" is never more true than after you have a baby.  One of my favorite green parenting tips for new parents is to NOT throw out the trash....at least not until you look at emptied containers to see which ones your baby might like to play with!

First, be sure to make sure that the container is safe to play with.  There should be no small pieces, sharp edges or broken parts.  Some of the best baby toys are canisters and plastic jars.  Second, clean the container and make sure there all of the food is cleared away.  Remove any removable labels or stickers.  I usually give mine a good spin through the dishwasher.  After being inspected and cleaned the containers are ready to give to the baby!

Now that he's crawling, my son loves to watch canisters roll across the floor and chase after them.  I watched his eyes light up as he looked through the clear, clean jar that once held peanut butter.  When he's a little older, we'll turn egg crates into painting palates and paper towel tubes into horns.  I feel good about giving my containers a second useful life and not having those items sitting in a landfill.

As with all toys you give your baby, be sure to periodically inspect your reused/recycled toys for wear and tear.  When they are worn or damaged, you can recycle them.

Lean Green Cleaning Machine

April 12, 2009

By Rishma Lalani, Itsabelly Canada



As parents we are always looking for ways to do something better, faster or cheaper.  One of the ways we achieve some of those goals in our household is by using safer alternatives to commercial cleaning products.  The first step (after you have removed all the "other" products from under your kitchen sink) is to assemble a kit of key ingredients:

• White Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Salt
• Lemon Juice
• Olive Oil
• Castile Soap
• Borax
• Containers/Spray Bottles/Labels

Now you are ready for your do-it-yourself cleaning mixture.  While there are many useful ones, here's a few of my favorites:

- All Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1 Teaspoon Borax, ½ Teaspoon baking soda, 2 Tablespoons vinegar, ½ Teaspoon liquid castile soap.  Then gradually add 2 cups very hot water.

- Window Cleaner: Mix ½ Teaspoon liquid castile soap, 3 Tablespoons Vinegar, 2 Cups water.  Mix well and add to a non-aerosol spray bottle.

- Furniture Polish: Mix 1 Cup olive oil, ½ Cup Vinegar (or lemon juice if you prefer the smell).  Shake well and apply to cloth.

Lastly, store your cleaning mixtures in air tight containers/spray bottles and label them for future reference.

Interested in learning more?  Check out these great on-line resources; Guide To Less Toxic Products ;  David Suzuki Foundation;  or contact your local Itsabelly Baby Planner.
today to see how you can make your home a little greener cleaner.

As I finish writing this I can just hear my grandmother saying to me..."I told you, this is the way we did it when we were young, simple and cheap."  There is something to be said for listening to our elders and doing things the good old fashioned way...trust me your families' bodies and the environment will thank you for it!

How to Save Some Green by Going Green with Baby (Free Guide)

March 29, 2009

By Amy Kux, Itsabelly Baby Planner (San Francisco)



In these economic times, we tend to look at the bottom line and not the healthiest or greenest options.  But this does not have to be the case.  Here are some quick Itsabelly Baby Planner tips that can be used to stay earth friendly, while keeping money in the bank. In addition, you can download your FREE guide to pesticides from the Environmental Working Group.

-    Make your own organic baby food.  At our home, we currently mix a few seasonal vegetables and organic chicken in a pan to roast or a pot to boil.  Once the food is well cooked, we blend them in the food processer until they are very smooth.  We freeze the food in baby food jars and BPA free storage containers.  (Consult with your pediatrician about which foods you should use.)
-    Apple sauce.  Again, you can make your own.  We buy the "cosmetically challenged" apples for our local farmers market at half of the price.  Or, another option is to buy a larger container and make your own smaller portions as needed.
-    Prioritize your organic needs.  Often organic foods do cost more, but you can save by concentrating on buying foods that are known to be grown with the most pesticides.  These include the dirty dozen:
o    Apples
o    Cherries
o    Grapes, imported (Chili)
o    Nectarines
o    Peaches
o    Pears
o    Raspberries
o    Strawberries
o    Bell peppers
o    Celery
o    Potatoes
o    Spinach
"The U.S. Department of Agriculture found that even after washing, some fruits and vegetables consistently carry much higher levels of pesticide residue than others. Based on an analysis of more than 100,000 U.S. government pesticide test results, researchers at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a research and advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C., have developed the "dirty dozen" fruits and vegetables, above, that they say you should always buy organic, if possible, because their conventionally grown counterparts tend to be laden with pesticides. They cost about 50 percent more - but are well worth the money."  MSNBC online article "Organic food: Is it worth the extra money?"

The below products generally do not contain pesticide residue:
o    Bananas
o    Kiwi
o    Mangos
o    Papaya
o    Pineapples
o    Asparagus
o    Avocado
o    Broccoli
o    Cauliflower
o    Corn
o    Onions
o    Peas
- Lastly, share resources.  The idea of being green is recycle, restore and reuse.  This can be achieved by reaching out to friends and family and pass on what you no longer need and vise versa.  As your baby grows, you go through clothes very quickly.  Often you will find numerous outfits that still have the tags on them.  Share them with friends, or even try to resell on sites such as ebay or craigslist.

New Report Confirms Carcinogens In Bath Products for Children

March 24, 2009

By Jennifer LoPrete, Itsabelly Marketing Mama

Once again, a new reports confirms toxic chemicals and known carcinogens can be found in baby bath and skincare products often labeled as “gentle” and “pure.”

We’d love to know what these well-known manufacturers find “gentle” and “pure” about using 1,4 dioxane and formaldehyde in baby bubble bath and baby lotion?

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics sent unopened baby/children’s bath and skincare products to independent laboratories to test for 1,4 dioxane and formaldehyde. Buyers must beware because you will not find these toxic ingredients listed on the label. Scary isn’t it?

We thought so and thought you might like to take action.

You may read the whole report here: www.safecosmetics.org/toxictub.

Here is the list of products tested: http://www.safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=426

Wondering how products with secret toxic chemicals can be legal? We are too. Contact your legislator here: Take action right now: Ask your legislators to clean up cosmetics.

Send and e-card about the report and spread the word to friends and family.

Budgeting for Twins

February 11, 2009

By Elizabeth Sneller, Itsabelly Multiples Expert

When we first learned we were expecting triplets, the first comment out of my husband's mouth was "GREAT, I bet we are going to have three girls, and we are going to have to pay for three weddings."  I was annoyed, but deep inside, I was very fearful that we weren't going to be able to afford our precious babies.

Financial concerns rank high as one of the largest stresses of expecting twins.  The thoughts of purchasing double or triple of everything caused me many restless nights during my first trimester.  Our take home pay was about to be split in half, and we would have three additional mouths to feed.

Fortunately, I am here to report that we are saving more money than ever, and our lifestyle still allows us date nights at good restaurants and even some great vacations.
In these economic times, I thought I would share some ideas of what my family has done to save money since the birth of our triplets.

1.  Have salon treatments such as hair coloring, pedicures, manicures, and waxes done at your local beauty schools.  I love our Aveda Institute.  It still has the atmosphere of a "high end" spa, yet the treatments are extremely affordable.  I always asked to have their best student work on me, and I have never had a beauty school disaster.

2.  Plan your menus according to what is on sale.  The savings really add up when you only buy what you need.  In addition to saving money, I have found that this method of shopping has allowed our family to eat much healthier.  Itsabelly's Guide To Going Green With Baby has great tips for making your own baby food, which is not only more affordable, but also better for your infants and the environment.

3.  Make a budget, stick to it, and use cash whenever possible.  I am a big fan of talk radio financial expert, Dave Ramsey.  His website explains that "a budget is just spending your money with intention, and many people say they've found even more money when they created a realistic budget and stuck with it."  It almost physically hurts me to spend cash, and I find that I really evaluate my purchases more when I have a set amount of cash to spend.  Studies show that people tend to spend 12-18% more when paying with a credit card.  We use Dave Ramsey's envelope system, which has allowed us to save a  lot money. Click here to download free budgeting forms from Daveramsey.com.

4.  Recruit help caring for babies through your local nursing school.  Many nursing programs offer extra credit to their students that volunteer their services in the community.  These students also make reliable and inexpensive babysitters once they get to know your babies.

5.  Shop at high-end consignment shops and "Mothers of Twins" garage sales.  Most moms I know rarely dress their kids in the outfits that they paid a lot of money for due to the fact that they don't want those clothes to get ruined.  Often times, these adorable outfits only get worn one to two times before they are outgrown.  Why pay full retail for like new clothes, when you can buy them for a fraction of the price on consignment?  Local Mother of Twins clubs typically organize garage sales in the spring and fall, and if you are expecting multiples, you can shop the member sale the night before the public sale.  These garage sales are great places to purchase gently used equipment and matching "twin" clothes.

6.  Don't be afraid to negotiate and use the phrase "is that the best you can do?" as often as possible when making purchases.  My mom always told me that "you don't get what you don't ask for" and by using this money saving phrase you can save money on things like medical bills, furniture, insurance, utilities, and vacation rentals.

7.  Organize a babysitting Co-op with other moms of multiples.  Even if it is just one other family, you will be able to alternate date nights and not have to pay for a babysitter.

8.  Buy in bulk.  Warehouse stores offer great savings on wipes, diapers and formula.

9.  Ask about "multiples discounts."  There are a number of stores that offer multiples discounts including Babies R Us and Oshkosh.  We are currently shopping for preschools and many are willing to offer a discount if you ask.

10.  Consider Breastfeeding.  Everyone knows the benefits of breastfeeding your babies, but when you consider buying formula for two of more babies at a time, the financial benefits are tremendous.

11.   Recycle and trade toys with toy swapping websites such as www.toyswap.com or www.toystotrade.com.  This can be a huge money and storage saver and it is also great for the environment.