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Playtime and interactive toys are important for parents looking to give their children a head start in life. But these products aren’t the only way to help stimulate a baby’s brain and eye development – nutrition is important, too.

A baby’s brain and eyes depend critically on nutrition and there are specific nutrients, which have been shown to play a role in brain and eye development.

A Closer Look at Lutein

During the critical time of brain and eye development, Lutein and DHA are important nutrients, yet Lutein has gone virtually unnoticed by parents.

Lutein is found in foods such as leafy greens, certain fruits and eggs. Emerging science demonstrates that Lutein helps protect important cells in the eye. Now, new research from Tufts University demonstrates – for the first time – that Lutein is not only present in the eyes, but it is also present in the infant brain. The regions of the brain where Lutein is found are associated with memory and learning.

“Moms should be aware of the emerging research on Lutein,” said Dr. Alanna Levine, a pediatrician and mother of two children. “Moms in my practice ask me every day about ways to promote development in their children. Many focus on products, games, and toys and sometimes overlook nutrition.”

Sources of Lutein

Prior to the introduction of solid foods, babies can get Lutein from a few sources, including breast milk and Similac. “Expecting and breastfeeding mothers alike should eat a well-balanced diet that includes foods with Lutein like leafy green vegetables and eggs,” added Levine. “And parents who formula feed should look for an infant formula that contains Lutein, as well as DHA.”

For Breastfeeding Mothers and Infants Transitioned to Solid Food

(Not an exhaustive list. Foods listed in descending order of Lutein content.)

• Spinach

• Kale

• Zucchini Squash

• Yellow Squash

• Green Beans

• Corn

• Kiwi

• Eggs

• Apples

For Infants

(Prior to the introduction of solid foods.)

• Breast milk

• Infant formula supplemented with Lutein, such as Similac Advance

I See, I Learn

“In addition to the right nutrients, playing together does encourage brain and eye development,” said Levine. “Rather than focusing on the latest toy, parents can do simple things like spending time with their children in front of a mirror, playing peek-a-boo or tracking the objects on a mobile.”

To learn more about Lutein and brain and eye development, visit www.similac.com/lutein. Or, using a mobile phone, scan the code below to visit the mobile site for Similac infant formula.

When you hear the word “geek,” visions of someone overly intellectual and socially awkward may come to mind. Add the title “dad” to that geek and the picture becomes a middle-aged man wearing black socks with sandals and a pocket protector. But a survey titled “Confessions of a Geek Dad,” conducted by Answers Research on behalf of Cisco Home Networking Business, shows today’s geeks are cooler, connected and more engaged fathers than you’d think.

According to the survey, 71 percent of geek dads say they spend more time doing activities with their kids than their fathers did with them. Also, 72 percent say they’re more excited about teaching kids how to use tech tools than the traditional workbench tools their dads taught them. And it looks like this “tech tool school” is always in session in the home, with 93 percent of geek dads saying they assist their kids with their tech toys.

“These statistics help describe a new generation of dads who’ve grown up with an ongoing evolution of new technologies and now use tech to connect with their family,” said Cat Schwartz, tech expert and blogger. “These dads aren’t just tech-savvy; they know how to translate that knowledge and excitement into fun and memorable traditions with their kids.”

Schwartz says creating new family traditions with tech in the home is easy and fun – regardless of whether you’re a geek dad or not. She offers these tips to get started:

* Begin with Opening the Box – When a new device comes into the household, involve the entire family in the set-up process (or at least watch it). This helps everyone understand how to use the product, so they can hopefully fix it if it stops working. It also allows you to discuss guidelines when using the device, and talk about the features and controls that impact your kids.

* Don’t Suffer the Buffer – It’s frustrating when you’re streaming video or music and it stops and starts due to buffering issues. You can’t achieve maximum performance from tech devices without a strong wireless router. The Linksys E4200V2 Maximum Performance Dual-Band N900 Router offers powerful speed and performance, and features an easy three-step set-up, parental controls and 24/7 support.

* Establish Tech Rites of Passage for Kids – In my home, we reward our kids with a phone at age 12 for their safety. We put rules into place as to how minutes will be earned and when they can carry and use it. Also, we sync all of our phones to our wireless network to connect from while at home, so we save minutes on our data plan.

* Special Creative Keepsakes – Harness technology to introduce fun traditions.  At least once a year, we take a family photo that we send to loved ones. With today’s digital cameras and imagery editing tools, we can digitally add images of family members unable to be with us. It’s a fun way of bringing everyone together when we’re miles apart.

“One of the best things about technology is that there is a continual stream of new and exciting innovations,” says Schwartz. “This gives parents so many options to create fun tech traditions that are unique to their family every year.”

For more information on Linksys routers, visit www.Linksys.com.

Going back to work after having a baby can be a challenging transition for new moms – especially for those who want to breastfeed. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least 12 months, only 35 percent of babies are exclusively breastfed at three months, and not quite 15 percent at six months, according to the Centers for Disease Control 2011 Breastfeeding Report Card.

Research suggests there are many challenges that moms face that prevent them from reaching this breastfeeding goal. Some of these obstacles include lack of breastfeeding information or supportive health care resources; lack of support at home; or challenges with finding time and privacy to express breastmilk in the workplace.

As a working mother of five who breastfed all her children, including twin boys, Amy O’Malley, RN, MSN, Director of Education and Clinical Services for Medela, understands both the importance of breastfeeding, and the challenges women face in doing so.

“The longer a baby is breastfed, the greater the health benefits for both mom and baby. Yet at three months, we see the most significant drop-off in breastfeeding which is around the same time most nursing moms return to work,” O’Malley said. “Fortunately today, there are many tools that can help mom continue to breastfeed and provide breastmilk to their babies even when they cannot be there. Breastpumps, for example, allow moms to keep that connection while providing optimal nutrition for their babies. It also allows dads and other caregivers to bond with babies when mom is away.”

And many moms agree. In fact, a recent survey of 1,000 women with infants, commissioned by Medela, found that 78 percent of breastfeeding moms use a breastpump.

O’Malley shares some tips and useful information for breastfeeding mothers returning to work:

• Plan in advance with your employer/human resources about your breastpumping needs. If your employer is unaware, let them know how breastfeeding will benefit all. Not only will you and your baby be healthier – research has shown that there are fewer missed work days and shorter absences for mothers who breastfeed.
• Familiarize yourself with the Protection and Affordable Care Act, which now requires certain employers to help support breastfeeding by providing working mothers a private place and time to pump, so that they can express breastmilk and maintain their supply. In addition, a new provision will require health plans to include breastfeeding support, supplies, and counseling without cost sharing for insurance policies with plan years beginning on or after August 1, 2012. Read More

Study abroad programs offer the opportunity to learn more about other cultures, the world, and ourselves. But there are so many programs available – how do you choose the right one for you?

Study Abroad Programs

First you need to decide what types of program you’re interested in. There are three basic kinds of study abroad programs: direct enroll, island, and field-based. Directly enrolling into a foreign university allows you to be considered a student just like anyone else there. You take integrated classes and live in dorms.

An island program can offer separate classes and spaces for foreign students. These classes are usually sponsored by a university here in the States, and they’re often highly structured.

Field-based programs can allow students to learn in the classroom with study-abroad and home campus students, and through hands-on learning outside of class.

Academic Goals

Think about what it is you want to get out of your studies. You can study something that you can’t study at your home institution, or try something  completely new to see if you like it. You can dive deeper into your specific area of interest, researching art or history up close, for example. Make sure the program you choose lets you accomplish those goals.

Location

Next, you need to choose where you want to go. If you love all things French, Paris might seem like the perfect fit. But don’t forget there are many other French-speaking countries around the world that could really broaden your horizons. Do you want to live in a bustling city, or do you prefer quieter or more rural locales? Do you want to go where you can easily understand the language, or do you want to immerse yourself in something totally new? Do you want to live with a homestay family, or in a dorm or apartment?

Cost

You really can find a quality program that’s affordable. Do your homework, and know that there are study abroad scholarships* available. Keep in mind that basic fees don’t always include insurance, housing, meals, trips or medical needs, so be sure to factor those into your budget as well.

For more about study abroad programs, visit www.aiuniv.edu.

*University grants or scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University’s catalog and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.

AIU cannot guarantee employment or salary.  Find disclosures on graduation rates, student financial obligations and more at www.aiuniv.edu/disclosures.

SOURCE:
American Intercontinental University

Parenthood is difficult enough as it is. But many parents find themselves with aches and pains because of their bundle of joy. All the lifting and twisting can really cause a lot of damage to new moms and dads. But there are ways to enjoy every minute with your child – without the pain.

One simple trick for parents is to clear the clutter from the diaper bag. All the toys and must-have gadgets can add an extra 10 pounds to your shoulders and back. The American Chiropractic Association recommends carrying just 10 percent of your body weight on your shoulders. Opting for only the basics: a few extra diapers, wipes and a change of clothes. If the bag is still a little heavy, place the strap across the body to even the weight distribution.

Lift with Care

Picking children up is another way parents put strain on muscles and joints. Never pick up a child by bending over at the waist. That position can put up to 10 times the amount of normal pressure on your spinal discs. A new mom or dad picking up a 10-pound infant, can really be putting 100 pounds of pressure on her back. To avoid this, bend at the knees with one foot in front of the other to help balance the weight.

Car Seat Safety

Parents should also be aware of the strain caused by putting a child in a car seat. It can be awkward and force your body to bend and twist in ways it shouldn’t. Parents should put at least one leg in the car and face the child when strapping them in. This placement puts less strain on the muscles and joints.

Holding Baby

There are also a few ways to avoid ligament strain when carrying a baby. Try to avoid putting the baby on your hip. It throws your back and hips out of alignment and forces your body to be out of balance. Using a sling that puts the baby in front of you can ease the pressure off your hips and lower back.

Use Both Hands

Carrying a car seat on your forearm can cause a painful inflammation of the cushion between the bone and tendon in the shoulders or elbows, called bursitis. Parents are urged to carry the car seat in front of your body with both hands to avoid this painful condition.

Following these tips will make being a parent just a little easier, at least on the back.

Terel S. Newton, M.D., Board-Certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at Pain Relief Centers. Pain Relief Centers are multi-specialty practices that use a combination of innovative and minimally invasive treatments that help relieve patients’ pain and improve their quality of life. Pain Relief Centers’ Board-Certified physicians utilize advanced technology and interventional therapies to diagnose and treat pain effectively. Pain Relief Centers’ comprehensive approach ranges from osteopathic manipulation and nerve ablation to minimally invasive spine procedures. Pain Relief Centers treat a variety of conditions such as neck and arm pain, back and leg pain, complex regional pain syndrome, degenerative disc disease, failed back syndrome, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. Pain Relief Centers works with patients to improve their pain and return them back to their busy lives. Visit www.PinellasPain.com or call 727-518-8660 for more information.

If your primary occupation over the last few months (or years) required more bedtimes than deadlines, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an estimated 5 million women classified themselves as stay-at-home moms in 2010. Yet, that figure is down from just two years earlier as more mothers return to the workforce.

For any mom taking on new 9 to 5 with duties that go beyond diapers and dinner, your wardrobe will likely need a makeover. However, sprucing up your business style doesn’t have to drain your kids’ college funds nor limit your options.

Here are 8 tips to help you update your wardrobe with fashionable work-wear on a budget.

1. Scope Out Consignment Stores

Back when you were expecting, consignment shops were goldmines for inexpensive maternity wear. Lucky for you, they’re also a great resource for professional attire. Sell some of your gently-used maternity wear and stock up on business basics including blazers, slacks and pencil skirts. For tips on navigating consignment racks, check out this article from Woman’s Day.

2. Shop for Shoes Online

Ultimately, footwear is one of the most important parts of a professional wardrobe. Despite the sheer joy of finding that perfect pair of black-patent pumps, shopping with a toddler is often a trying experience. Avoid the department-store drama and shop online at e-retailers like Endless or Piperlime, who offer free shipping both ways. Alternatively, find free shipping codes for Macy’s and other popular retailers from sites like FreeShipping.org to avoid delivery charges.

3. Think Simplicity

You obviously can’t afford a series of tailor-made suits, but you can afford a few simple pieces you can dress up or down, as the situation requires. Button-up blouses are a must and can be found on the cheap at Target, Old Navy and other discount retailers. And don’t forget cardigans – find a few in your most flattering colors to wear all year long.

4. Avoid Trendy

Keeping up the trends is expensive and you’ll often end up with a closet full of unwearable items from last season. Go for the classics and use accessories to showcase your inner trendsetter — think freshwater pearls, stud earrings and a tangerine handbag. For more inspiration, consult the 12 Jewelry Trends for 2012 from JCK Magazine. Read More

January is National Mentor month, a time to celebrate and encourage the positive relationships that are critical to the development of children and youth – the positive relationships that are developed and encouraged each year at camp.

The idea of a mentor is an ancient one. In Greek mythology, when Odysseus, King of Ithaca, went to battle in the Trojan War, he placed his friend, Mentor, in charge of his son and his kingdom. Today, Mentor has become synonymous with someone who imparts wisdom to and shares knowledge with a less experienced person. Mentoring relationships are special and often life-changing.

The camp experience is uniquely designed to foster these relationships. When counselors and camp staff engage with campers, they are not just teaching – they are using the core elements of positive mentoring relationships.

• Camp counselors share and teach through stories and anecdotes. They impart wisdom from their own successes and failures, and offer the insight that comes from experience.

• Camp counselors model appropriate behaviors. They show campers how to play fairly, show empathy, and win and lose gracefully.

• Camp counselors guide campers through the learning landscape of life. They teach the things that cannot be taught in school – how to live with others, how to build friendships, how to lead, and how to work as a team.

• Camp counselors support campers emotionally. They offer reassurance when situations become difficult or overwhelming. Counselors are there to not only lend a hand but to help campers work through difficult moments and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering obstacles.

These relationships aren’t just a nice addition to childhood and young adult development – kids need them. They need nurturing mentors – people outside of their family that take an interest in who they are, root for their successes, and help them learn that failures are critical stepping stones on the path of success.

Each year for millions of children and youth, those relationships are developed at camp.

The American Camp Association® (ACA) works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accredited® camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are over 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit www.CampParents.org.

Too much time indoors can often lead to cranky, stir-crazy kids. But you can keep your kiddo occupied with kid-friendly, educational activities that will appeal to their imagination. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pitch a tent and build a campsite. If the weather has prevented you from a camping excursion, pitch a tent in your living room. Use a table, chairs and a sheet to create a tent or fort in your dining room or living room. Then, set out a blanket in front of the tent and make a circle using potatoes in place of rocks and a flashlight or lantern for a fire. Get the whole family involved and take turns telling one another funny stories. Remember to pack some good campsite treats, such as popped popcorn and dried fruits.

Embark on an adventure. From your campsite, go exploring through the jungle of the living room. Encourage your child to use their imagination. What animals do they see? Do they hear any foreign sounds? How tall are the trees? Will they have to cross a river? If so, will they need to build a bridge? If a bridge is needed, let them use some throw pillows to use as crossing stones. Remember, if you’re excited, they’ll be excited too. A great adventure story, like the serial story “Quetzalcoatyl,” can really get their imagination going. This tale about a magical sea creature and the boy he befriends can be found each month in the pages of the free children’s newspaper Kidsville News!

Create a journal. Ask your child to describe their adventure – or just their day – by writing, painting or drawing on a series of pages. Have them start from the beginning by describing what they had for breakfast, what they found in the jungle, etc. You can use a hole punch and yarn or string to put together a journal to help them recall their exciting day.

Head out on the town. What better excuse to head out – even in less than favorable weather – than to take a trip to the library? Keeping your child’s book collection well-stocked and diverse are great ways to encourage their hobby, and help them to continue to develop a larger vocabulary.

Find out if your local library has a reading program and get your child signed up, and don’t forget to check to see if they have story time as well. If you’re looking for children’s book suggestions for your child, ask your local librarian or check out the children’s newspaper Kidsville News! for book reviews and suggestions. Reviews from author James Patterson’s Readkiddoread.com are featured in the publication every month, and online at www.kidsvillenews.com.

Set up a book nook. There are few things better on a dreary weather day than to curl up in a cozy corner in warm pajamas with a good book and a trusted teddy bear. And after a long day of pitching tent and trudging through the jungle and the library, both you and your kiddo are likely to need some quiet time. Designate one corner of your home as the book nook with lots of comfy blankets, pillows and a reading light. Then snuggle up and read some stories together.

If you’re looking for more educational activities, great reading material or tips for encouraging your child to read, look to “Kidsville News!” in your area or online at www.kidsvillenews.com.

All too often, news headlines tell of another teen killed in a car crash. It is estimated that 35 percent of teen casualties are due to vehicular driving accidents, making it the leading cause of death among teenagers in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Through their participation in a high school program called Project Ignition, thousands of young people have stood up to this statistic and worked tirelessly to change the driving behaviors of their peers and broader communities.

If you have a teen driver in your family who you want to help become safer on the road, here are some tips from students in Project Ignition:

Open the lines of communication

• Talk with your teen about distracted driving. Make sure you both understand what things are dangerous distractions.

• Listen to your teen. Ask about what it’s like being in the car with other teens, and what distractions there are to handle.

Offer support

• Encourage your teen to use his or her voice. Role-play with your teen so that he can become comfortable saying things like, “We both want to live, so let me answer your phone or text while you drive.”

• Help your teen get involved with programs at school like Project Ignition, so that she can be a positive example and make an impact.

Set rules

• Set family ground rules for texting and calling while driving. Your teen needs to know you have high expectations, and what the consequences will be if the rules aren’t followed. Read More

This winter try something different with your children to cure the winter blues. Instead of simply reading to them from the books on their shelf, why not come up with your own story? Storytelling is a time-honored tradition, handed down from generation to generation. In some cases, handed-down stories turn into beautifully written-down tales, decades later as in case of my Lima Bear Stories*.

You, too, can create stories either on your own or with the help of your family. The result will not only be entertaining but a source of family memories as palpable as any family vacation photo album.

To get started in creating your family story-telling memories keep these tips in mind:

1. Do not be intimidated. Anything you have to share is going to be interesting to your children.

2. Use what is important to you. If you are super clean, for example, create a character who learns the hard way why cleaning up is important.

3. Use humor. Goofy=happy children

4. Create catchy character names. Catchy names make the story come alive and are easily remembered.

Another way to create terrific tales is to let the story unravel by having your family add the content along with you. For example, why not turn the television off on a cold winter’s night and simply start a story much like the old children’s game “whisper down the lane?” Start with a funny scene using material that is obvious to you. Let each family member add to the story and take the story over for a while. Enjoy as you witness the creative juices flowing. Each family member gets a chance to add and embellish until finally a completed story is created. After you get to the end of the story see if family members can repeat the story back. Did the story change? Try the story again using the new embellishments to see if the changes may become permanent changes. Read More