Most babies who appear to have newborn constipation have functional constipation.¹ This is temporary constipation caused by a diet change, growth spurt, or just being a newborn. Infants are born with weak abdominal muscles and immature sphincters, so straining to have a bowel movement can be normal, especially if they have a soft stool after a few minutes of straining.² Organic constipation is caused by a medical problem such as a disease or deformity.³

Baby constipation is common, with 3%-5% of doctor visits for children related to constipation issues.¹ As a parent, you must know your baby’s bowel movement (BM) patterns to notice changes. Then, monitor the changes to see if you need to contact your provider. Most parents worry about newborn constipation issues, but it is usually functional, and you can treat it at home.¹

Signs of Baby Constipation

How do you know if your baby is constipated? There are several signs to watch for:^2,3,4,5

• A smaller number of bowel movements than normal
• Stools that are hard or shaped like pellets
• Large, round stool or watery stool
• They’re straining more than usual
• Fussiness or crying when baby is making a bowel movement, followed by hard stool
• Swollen or bloated belly
• Decreased intake/refusal to eat
• Vomiting
• Blood in the stools (often from an anal fissure)

How Often Should a Newborn Poop?

Each baby develops bowel movement patterns once they consistently eat the same food, formula, or breast milk. So, you will notice if there is a difference in your baby’s pattern. Of course, their pattern can naturally change with age and the types of food introduced into their diet. For example, it is normal for exclusively breast-fed babies to pass gas frequently but only have a bowel movement every four to seven days.⁵ However, some breastfed babies poop after every feed!

Most formula-fed infants have anywhere from one to four BMs per day. Some infants will have a BM with every feeding, while others may go every one to three days.^3,6 Just be aware of your baby’s BM pattern and watch for changes.

What Can Cause Baby Constipation?

Baby constipation is most common when there is a diet change for the baby. This includes changes from breast milk to formula, from one formula to another, and when solid foods are introduced. If you see a difference in your baby’s pooping pattern, or if the stool (poop) is hard and not easy to pass, your baby could be constipated.⁴

Some other causes of newborn constipation could be:^3,4,8

• Not drinking enough fluid
• Low fiber in the diet
• Immature digestive system in newborns
• Weak abdominal muscles in newborns
• After an illness
• A medical disease or anatomical malformation, such as Hirschprung’s disease

Regardless of the cause of your baby’s constipation, if it doesn’t resolve after two weeks with home remedies, you should contact your provider.⁷

How To Relieve Constipation in Babies Quickly

There are many ways to help your baby poop. One of the easiest ways to relieve baby constipation is a diet adjustment.^2,4,5 Remember to experiment with the amounts of added food or liquid items. It is best to only change one thing at a time and no more than one thing per 24-hour period. You do not want to give your baby diarrhea. Also, always check with your doctor before adding water, juice, or cereal to your baby’s diet. Here are some simple ways to help your baby’s constipation:^2,4,5

• Add water to their daily routine: Start with 1-2 oz daily, but not at regular feeding time. This is not recommended for young infants as people often misunderstand and add too much water, resulting in hyponatremia.
• Add 100% apple, pear, or prune juice for babies, which are good for constipation: You might start with 2 oz of juice, one to two times a day, but not at regular feeding time. Go slow and follow your doctor’s orders.
• Increase fiber in the diet: You can do this by adding wheat, oatmeal, or barley cereal. Avoid rice cereal, as it might cause constipation, and there are concerns it contains inorganic arsenic.⁹ Limiting this is also essential as these increase calories that are not particularly beneficial to growth.

There are also other ways to help with baby constipation that don’t include a diet change to help your baby pass their stool (poop). For example, you could try body positions to help the newborn poop, the belly press trick, and rectal/anal stimulation:^4,5

• Give the baby a warm bath: It can relax them and make it easier to pass the stool.
• Exercise the baby’s legs like they are pedaling a bicycle: This can help stimulate the bowels.
• Position or push the baby’s knees up to the chest: This puts the body in a squatting position (even though they are lying down), which helps release stool from the anus.
• Gently massage or press on the belly: Start at the lower right corner of the abdomen. Move upward in a straight line, then across the belly at the belly button level toward the left side and down to the left corner.
• Use a rectal thermometer to stimulate the anus: Put the thermometer in the anus as if you were taking their temperature. You can also do this with a cotton swab by adding some Vaseline to the swab and inserting it into the anus — only insert the tip of the swab.

You must contact your provider if none of the above home remedies relieve your baby’s constipation. They may suggest using a baby glycerin suppository or an enema.

When To Talk to a Doctor

If you decide to use a home remedy to help with your baby’s constipation, you should always follow your provider’s advice. If the home remedies don’t produce results after two weeks, contact your provider for further instructions. But if you see any of the following signs or symptoms in your baby, call your doctor immediately:^1,4

• Blood in the stool, which could indicate an infection in babies
• Black-colored stools which can mean there is blood in the digestive system
• Large bloated and distended belly, along with not wanting to feed and signs of constipation
• Vomiting develops after symptoms of constipation and belly bloating

How To Prevent Baby Constipation

Preventing baby constipation isn’t the best way to look at the situation. You never know when your baby may get constipated and need some help with passing stool. You should consistently monitor the stool for signs of constipation but can’t prevent it. And if you try too hard to prevent constipation, you may end up with the opposite problem — diarrhea.

The best way to prevent baby constipation is by following a proper diet, following your provider’s instructions about the baby’s diet, and remembering how to treat baby constipation. Here is a list of some general guidelines you can follow to try and help prevent baby constipation:⁷

• Ensure plenty of fluid intake: Ensure your baby is feeding the proper number of times per day for their age. Your provider can give you this information.
• Use proper amounts of fiber in the diet: Different baby foods contain different amounts of fiber. Pears, peaches, plums, and prunes (or any of their juices) contain high fiber.
• Frequent monitoring of stools: It’s easy to monitor your baby’s stool since you and your family are the most frequent diaper changers. If there are fewer dirty diapers than usual or the stool seems hard and pellet-like, that’s the time to help your baby with constipation.
• Regular exercise and tummy: Exercise for babies includes tummy time. This is where you lay them on their belly for a small amount of time a few times a day, moving their legs in a circular motion as if peddling a bike. Do this while playing with them or during a diaper change, and some of the swings and bouncy seats give your baby a chance to exercise.

Helpful Hints on How To Help Your Baby Poop

As a pediatric registered nurse, over the years, I have heard many parents mention the fastest or most effective way that helped their baby to poop. Here are some of the “winners” of the “I got my baby to poop” category:^2,4,5

• If your newborn is passing gas but not pooping, they will be pooping soon. The gas indicates the intestines are working and moving the stool along. Be patient.
• The general rule for fruit juice is to give a baby 1 oz for every month of life. So, a 2-month-old can have 2 oz of fruit juice per day.
• Rectal stimulation with a rectal thermometer or a cotton swab two to three times daily is one of the easiest and most effective home remedies for constipation.
• Make sure the baby gets regular exercise and tummy time.
• Never give a baby stool softener, laxatives, or an enema without contacting your provider.

All babies have their systems and respond to constipation home remedies differently. And since babies grow and change rapidly, you might find it frustrating to keep trying multiple remedies until you find the one that works for your baby. This is normal. Try to be patient. You will become aware of your baby’s BM pattern. Once familiar with their pattern, it will be easy to recognize signs of constipation. You can help them easily with all the tips and tricks when that happens. Then you, like many other parents and caretakers, can start your baby on the road to smooth and easy BMs. Happy diaper changing!

Ready to start feeding your little one, or is the intimidation kicking in? The journey of introducing new foods to a baby can be both exciting and challenging. While providing a diverse and nutritious diet is essential, as a mom of two under three, I know firsthand it’s not always easy to get our little ones to embrace unfamiliar flavors. Here, I will share some creative feeding hacks I learned along the way. I hope these yogurt hacks help make the feeding process enjoyable for you and your baby, too!

The Benefits of Yogurt for Babies

Before we dive into some fun feeding hacks using yogurt, you might wonder why we recommend yogurt for babies. Let’s explore why yogurt is an excellent choice for introducing new foods to your baby and why Stonyfield YoBaby yogurt is our favorite option.

1. Nutritional Advantages

Stonyfield YoBaby Organic yogurt has essential nutrients for your baby’s growth and development. Its calcium, vitamin D, and protein support healthy bone development and overall well-being.^1,2,7,8 It’s made without the use of harmful additives, artificial flavors, and preservatives, making it a wholesome and safe choice.

2. Probiotics for Digestive Health

One of the standout features of YoBaby yogurt is the inclusion of probiotics. These beneficial bacteria promote a healthy digestive system, supporting your baby’s gut health.^3,9 Introducing yogurt early can reduce the risk of digestive issues.^4,9

3. Texture and Taste

Babies and toddlers are notoriously picky eaters, but YoBaby yogurt has a smooth texture and delicious taste. The mild and creamy consistency often appeals to young taste buds, making it a favorite among little ones (and parents). The subtle sweetness of yogurt helps ensure that introducing new foods becomes a delightful experience.

Feeding Hacks for Introducing New Foods to Baby

Now that you know all the benefits of yogurt for babies, let’s dive into how you can use yogurt to help introduce new foods to your baby as you embark on your feeding journey.

1. Cereal

Starting with cereal is a common step in a baby’s culinary journey. And rightly so, given its high iron content and ease of preparation.⁵ To make it more appealing, consider mixing baby food cereal with yogurt. Mix one tablespoon of baby food cereal directly into a cup of yogurt. The creamy texture of the yogurt adds a delightful twist, making it more palatable for your little one. Experiment with various YoBaby yogurt flavors to discover your baby’s favorite.

2. Nut Butters

Research shows that introducing peanuts early may help reduce allergy risk.⁶ Experts recommend introducing nuts and peanuts between 4 and 11 months of age. However, whole nuts come with choking hazards, and the stickiness of nut butters poses a challenge when attempting to introduce them to your little one. Mixing a teaspoon of nut butter with a cup of YoBaby yogurt can help thin out the nut butter, making it easier for your little one to enjoy. This is a great way to introduce nut butters to your baby for allergy prevention and boosts flavor!

3. Fruits

Incorporating fruits into your baby’s diet provides many vitamins and minerals. Dice or mash fruits and mix them directly into your YoBaby yogurt cup. Some fruits that you can easily mash up and stir into yogurt include:

• Strawberries
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Peaches
• Plums
• Apricots
• Mangoes

For a refreshing treat, try creating yogurt fruit popsicles (see our instructions below). These frozen delights not only introduce new flavors but also soothe teething discomfort.

4. Veggies

Getting your baby to enjoy vegetables can be daunting. However, blending veggies into a creamy yogurt puree might do the trick. You can also make veggie yogurt bites — a convenient and mess-free way to offer a yummy snack.

Veggie Yogurt Bites

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• Author: Jamie Adams

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Description

Veggie yogurt bites are a mess-free way to offer your baby a tasty snack, combining a variety of vegetables with YoBaby yogurt in one go!

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Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, broccoli, etc.), steamed and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup YoBaby yogurt
• 2 tablespoons finely grated cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for greasing

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a mini muffin tin with a small amount of olive oil.
2. Combine the finely chopped mixed vegetables in a mixing bowl with YoBaby yogurt. If you’re using grated cheese, add it to the mixture, and mix well.
3. Stir in the whole wheat flour and crack in the egg. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until you have a well-combined batter.
4. Add garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings based on your baby’s preferences.
5. Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-18 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and set in the center.
7. Allow the veggie yogurt bites to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, these bites can be served directly to your baby. They are a convenient and mess-free way to introduce vegetables and yogurt in a tasty package.

Notes

Feel free to customize the recipe based on your baby’s preferences and dietary needs. These veggie yogurt bites are a great way to encourage your baby to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a fun and manageable form.

Methods for Introducing New Foods to Baby

The versatility of yogurt allows for a variety of ways in which you can introduce foods to a baby. You can try spoon-feeding, dipping, drizzling, and so much more!

1. Bowl Feeding

A visually appealing bowl can make mealtime more exciting for your baby. Arrange different foods colorfully and invitingly. Combine textures like crunchy waffle sticks and soft fruits to create a sensory-rich experience. Allow your baby to dip their favorite foods into the bowl of yogurt, offer them a spoon to dive right in, or drizzle it on top of their food. The versatility of yogurt allows you to experiment with various combinations, ensuring your baby gets a well-rounded meal.

2. Tiny Popsicle Molds

Tiny popsicle molds are not just for warm weather. Use them to create yogurt popsicles with added food items for variety. These frozen treats can be a lifesaver during teething episodes, relieving your baby’s sore gums. The cooling effect and the delicious taste of YoBaby yogurt make this feeding hack a win-win.

All you need is a popsicle mold and a combination of whole fruit and yogurt. Mash up some whole fruit (or puree it in a blender), mix it with a cup of yogurt, pour this into a popsicle mold, and let it sit in your freezer overnight. Play with fruit and yogurt combinations to find your baby’s favorite. Some of our favorites include:

• Mixed berries
• Pineapple mango
• Strawberry banana
• Blueberry peach

3. Mesh Pacifiers

For a mess-free feeding experience, try freezing yogurt in mesh pacifiers. This introduces a new method of consumption and serves as a soothing remedy for teething discomfort. The mesh pacifiers ensure your baby enjoys the yogurt without the risk of choking or making a mess.

Tips for Successfully Introducing New Foods to Baby

As you embark on this journey of introducing new foods to your baby, consider these tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. Gradual Introduction

Take it slow and introduce one new food at a time. This allows your baby to adjust to flavors and textures without feeling overwhelmed. Watch their reactions and proceed accordingly.

2. Pay Attention to Cues

Every baby is unique, and their preferences may vary. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and expressions during mealtime. This will help you understand their likes and dislikes, allowing you to tailor their meals accordingly.

3. Maintain a Balance

Strive for a balance of flavors and textures in your baby’s meals. Mixing and matching different food groups enhances nutritional value and keeps mealtime interesting for your little one.

Introducing new foods to your baby can be a delightful adventure with the right feeding hacks and the goodness of YoBaby yogurt. Experiment with these creative ideas, pay attention to your baby’s cues and relish the joy of watching them explore the world of flavors. Enjoy this bonding time over meals and create positive associations with nutritious foods.

As you embark on this journey, remember that each baby is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Share your experiences, learn from other parents, and savor the precious moments of discovering your baby’s favorite foods. Happy feeding!

Babies do not come with instructions. Sometimes, new parents need to learn on the fly, and it’s scary when something seems wrong with your baby. Some babies suddenly start crying nonstop, while others may spit up a lot. This article tackles two common conditions: colic and baby reflux. We explain the differences, signs to look for, and some common treatments.

What Are Common Colic Symptoms?

All newborns cry when hungry and usually cry for another one to two hours throughout the day. Babies communicate their needs, like hunger, dirty diapers, and needing comfort by crying.³ However, colic is different and typically defined as prolonged crying for more than three hours a day, three or more days a week for at least three weeks.^1,3 Although crying episodes can happen at any time of the day, they often occur in the evening.⁴ Colicky babies are difficult to console, and crying may last a few minutes to hours.²

In an otherwise healthy baby, common colic symptoms include:^1,2,3

• Their face may turn red when crying
• They may make fists with their hands
• They may bring their legs up to their abdomen
• They may appear to be in pain
• Their belly may be slightly swollen
• Crying that begins suddenly for no apparent reason

What Causes Colic in Babies?

Doctors do not know precisely what causes newborns to have colic, and a lack of answers to explain your baby’s nonstop crying can be frustrating.¹ The good news is colic typically resolves by about 3 to 4 months of age. Symptoms usually begin around two to three weeks after birth and peak when your baby is 4 to 6 weeks old.²

Many believe gas is at least partly to blame for colic, but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this is a common myth. Babies can swallow air that passes through their bodies as gas when they cry. However, this is a normal process and should not be painful. So, when considering whether your baby may have colic vs. gas, remember that all babies pass a lot of gas. Since colicky infants have increased crying (and therefore swallow more air), they may pass more gas.³ Other sources, such as the American Academy of Family Physicians, still list “gas pains” as a potential contributing factor to colic.^1,2

Other possible factors include:²

• Feeding too much or too little
• Overstimulation
• Intolerance to formula or breastmilk
• Immature gastrointestinal system
• Emotional response to their surroundings

Although there is no test to diagnose colic, your doctor will complete a physical exam and health history. They may order diagnostic work like lab tests or X-rays to rule out a more severe diagnosis, as colic is a diagnosis of exclusion.¹

Are There Any Baby Colic Treatments?

Baby colic is common, but because the cause is unknown and likely multifactorial, treatment consists of avoiding potential triggers and comforting your baby.² Parents may experiment with trial and error to determine what works best. However, despite a parent’s best efforts, a baby is sometimes inconsolable. If there is no other medical reason for the crying, a colicky baby can rock any parent’s nerves, leaving them exasperated and exhausted. Babies who cry a lot are at risk for shaken baby syndrome; never shake a baby. If you become overwhelmed, ask for help or place your infant safely in a crib without extra blankets or toys and walk away (to another room) for 10 minutes. Shaking a baby can lead to death or life-long disability.⁵

To help a colicky baby, you can try:^1,2,3

• Skin-to-skin contact or swaddling your baby
• Rocking or singing to your baby
• Walking your baby in a stroller
• Going for a drive with your baby in a car seat
• Talking to your provider about feedings, as they may suggest a change
• Using a slow-flow nipple if your baby bottle feeds too fast
• Using white noise and a dimly lit room
• Giving your baby a warm bath or a massage
• Giving your baby a pacifier

Some over-the-counter medicines, such as simethicone drops, may help relieve gas, but always ensure it is okay with your pediatrician first. Colic may be a symptom of baby reflux, and your provider may recommend a different option.^1,2

What Causes Reflux in Babies?

It is normal for your baby to spit up because their gastrointestinal system is still developing. Some babies spit up more than others. Spitting up is also called baby reflux. Other names include gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and acid reflux. Baby reflux happens when the stomach contents (like milk) come back up the esophagus (feeding tube) and out the mouth or both the mouth and nose as spit-up. Normally, food is kept in the stomach by the lower esophageal sphincter, but when the structure is still developing, sometimes it opens, letting food and stomach acid back up.^6,7,8,10,11

You may notice your baby spitting up at 2-3 weeks old. Reflux is not usually a cause for concern if your baby is otherwise doing well and gaining weight. Most babies will outgrow reflux as their bodies develop by 12 months.^7,11

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is different. GERD occurs when a baby’s reflux impacts other areas of their health, like weight gain and breathing. GERD can happen in younger infants and older children.¹¹ GERD in babies may also resolve as they grow and mature, have better head control, and are introduced to solid foods.⁷ If your baby is diagnosed with GERD, you may need to see a specialist. Treatment recommendations can vary depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms.^6,7,11

What Are Common Acid Reflux Symptoms?

Spitting up is usually the first symptom of reflux and GERD in babies. GERD can cause other issues. Contact your pediatrician if you notice any of the following symptoms:^6,9,11

• Increased irritability during and after feedings
• Arching their back when crying
• Vomiting
• Gagging
• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomit that is green, yellow, red, or brown
• Poor feeding
• Not gaining weight

What About Silent Reflux Symptoms?

Silent reflux is aptly named. Babies swallow their regurgitated stomach contents and may not spit up much, if at all. However, symptoms of silent reflux in babies often overlap with GERD symptoms.¹² Talk to your pediatrician if you think your infant may be suffering from silent reflux.

Are There Any Treatments for Reflux in Babies?

Babies are prone to reflux because they drink an all-liquid diet and spend much of their time lying down. Your health provider may recommend diet changes if your baby’s reflux symptoms are concerning. So you may wonder, does milk help acid reflux? Formula-fed children may do better on another type of formula. Sometimes, doctors recommend adding a little rice cereal to your baby’s milk.⁸

If your baby is not gaining weight or has other complications related to GERD, your provider may consider prescribing a medication for treatment. However, while these medications are available over the counter, parents should not give this medicine to a child without a doctor’s prescription.

Other non-pharmacologic things you can do to combat the symptoms of GERD include:¹¹

• Do not bounce your baby after feeding
• Hold your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after a feed
• Burp your baby after every 1-2 ounces of feed or after each breast
• Do not overfeed your baby

How Can I Tell the Difference Between Colic and Reflux?

When wondering if your baby may have colic vs. reflux, consider the following:

• Babies with colic and GERD are usually otherwise healthy
• Babies with colic cry for no apparent reason
• Babies with GERD may cry because of pain
• Babies with colic may or may not be spitty
• Babies with reflux spit up often
• Babies with colic may or may not have reflux
• Babies with GER or GERD may or may not have colic
• The cause of colic is unknown
• The anatomical cause of reflux is known (poor lower esophageal sphincter tone)
• Colic usually resolves by 3 to 4 months of age
• Reflux may resolve closer to one year

Talk to your provider if you believe your baby may have colic or reflux. Your doctor will want to rule out other conditions. Remember, you are not alone, and your provider should provide a better understanding of your baby’s situation. Some of our suggestions may also help during this challenging time.

When your baby gets a cold with a runny nose, nasal congestion, and a cough, what can you do to help them feel better? Many parents look in their medicine cabinets or run to the local store to get over-the-counter infant cough medicine. Even though the box says to consult a doctor if giving it to children under 2, some decide to give half the dose listed to their baby without talking to their pediatrician, which can be life-threatening.

While taking the easy route like this is tempting, most children with a viral illness will improve without using infant cough medicine.⁴ Let’s explore how to help our babies feel better and when to call the doctor.

How Common are Colds and Coughs in Babies?

A baby typically has six to eight colds or coughs in their first year. This number can increase if they are in a daycare setting around other children.⁵ A baby or infant cough can be very concerning for parents since many viruses can affect their children. Some viruses can be severe, including the flu (influenza), pertussis (whooping cough), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. Amazingly, your baby has a built-in immunity that can help protect them from such illnesses. This temporary immunity comes from the mother through the placenta. It’s in place to help protect the baby as soon as birth. There continues to be some immunity support through breast milk (breastfed or expressed). This immunity generally lasts about six months.^6,7

Can You Give Your Baby Cough Medicine?

You should NEVER give your baby cold or cough medicine without consulting your doctor. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), 61% of parents will give their babies over-the-counter cold and cough medicine without talking to their doctor.¹ This can be dangerous. In a study of 10 infants who died under mysterious circumstances, some of their deaths were linked to OTC infant cough medicine.³ The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) then released a public health advisory that OTC infant cough medicine and baby cough syrup should be recalled. Because of this, no OTC medicines are labeled “infant cough medicine.”

What About Home Remedies or Medicines for a Baby’s Cough?

Several home remedies can work well to help your baby’s cold and cough symptoms:²

• Humidifier: Using a cool mist humidifier in the baby’s room can help ease congestion.
• Saline drops: Saline nasal drops can help clear nasal passages.
• Bulb syringe: Use this, and the saline drops, to suction excess mucus from the nasal passages.
• Elevating the head: Propping the infant’s head during sleep can help breathing.
• Drinking plenty of fluids: Ensure the baby is well-hydrated.

When To Call a Doctor

If your baby has a cold or cough, it will most likely resolve itself with time, extra special care, and some home remedies. But call your doctor if the cold seems to get worse or lasts too long or if any of the following occurs:^4,5

• If your baby is younger than 3 months, call the doctor early in the illness. In newborns, ensuring that a more serious condition isn’t present is crucial, especially if your baby has a fever.
• Your baby isn’t making as many wet diapers as usual.
• There is a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
• They are unusually irritable or seem to have ear pain.
• You notice yellow or green mucus coming from the eyes, or their eyes are red.
• They have a persistent cough that prevents sleeping.

If you see these more severe symptoms, call your provider immediately:^4,5

• The baby refuses to nurse or take any fluids.
• They cough so hard it causes vomiting or skin color changes, especially blue coloring around the lips.
• You see blood-tinged mucus.
• The baby is having difficulty breathing.
• They are very sluggish, have low energy, or are excessively sleepy.
• You hear them wheezing.

Tips To Help Your Baby If They Have a Cough or Cold

There are several things you can do if your baby has a cough or cold, mainly to prevent the spread of any illness:^5,8

• Keep the child’s head elevated to allow mucus to drain out of the head.
• Wash your hands frequently to avoid passing germs to each other. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are suitable for this, too.
• Disinfect (at least once a day) commonly touched areas by the whole family, such as doorknobs, toilet handles, water faucet handles, cellphones, TV remotes, etc.
• Don’t share drinking cups or utensils; don’t clean the baby’s binky by putting it in your mouth, or you might catch the same illness.
• Give your baby small amounts of fluid if they have trouble swallowing, or make homemade popsicles from breast milk or formula.
• Monitor their temperature frequently.

Giving cough medicine to an infant should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a pediatrician or healthcare professional. Infants have delicate systems, and certain cough medicines may not be safe or effective. Most cough medicines are not recommended for children under a certain age. The AAP advises against using over-the-counter cough and cold medications for children under the age of 2.¹

Parenting is hard. And ever so important. We want to raise healthy, happy, and secure children. But there is no rule book or one right way to do this. At times, parenting can be confusing and contradictory. Let’s say your child wants ice cream right before bed. If you agree, it makes them happy, but is it the best choice? Saying “no” to our kids might not make them happy, but it’s often best for other areas of their development or well-being.⁸

Parenting is about balance, patience, and supporting our children as best as possible. There is no surefire way to make them happy. It’s an impossible task fraught with pressure to keep them happy all the time (setting you both up to fail). However, there are many ways we can support our children to grow up feeling secure, happy, and safe in their relationship with us. This, in turn, influences their mood and general well-being!¹

7 Tips for Raising Secure and Happy Kids

It can feel tricky and tiring to try and do it all right. And sometimes, you still feel like you’re at a loss. The truth is that there’s never a way to make everything perfect. But there are things we can do to raise our children to feel secure and happy. Here are seven of my favorite tips for this:

1. Create a Routine in Your Children’s Lives

It can often seem counterintuitive, but children thrive on structure. Even children who seem to be resisting a schedule or routine at all costs tend to do better when they know what to expect from their life day in and day out.⁹ Consistency is essential for children as they learn their caregivers are reliable, which helps them feel stable and secure.²

Your child needs to know that you are there for them and that they can rely on you to meet their needs. This knowledge and belief that you will help them or that they can come to you builds trust and forms the basis of secure attachment.³ Children who experience secure attachment with a primary caregiver are more confident and have higher self-esteem. They can also better explore their world and learn well because they know they have safe and loving arms to return to if they need support.²

And yes, parents, that sometimes means stopping the movie we are enjoying watching to put them to bed. But that routine and your consistency in expectations will reap a significant benefit in the long run. So, find your routines and stick to them.

2. Set Necessary Boundaries

Raising secure and happy children starts with setting boundaries. While it seems logical to give your kids what they want to make them happy, that is not the case. It’s the opposite. Sometimes, saying “no” is another way of showing love.^7,8 We may feel like we are being mean when we set a boundary. But our kids often respect us more for putting parameters on what they can and cannot do. Similarly to consistency, boundaries make them feel loved and secure.²

3. Be Clear and Demonstrate Expectations

Kids respond best when you let them know what you expect of them before the moment you ask them to do something. For example, if you want them to do the dishes and put their laundry away, be clear about when you expect them to do these things. The more they consistently know what is expected, the more they can rise to the occasion and become responsible.¹⁰ If you’ve never taught them how to clip their nails, for instance, then it’s unfair to expect them to know how to do it.

4. Use the Phrase, “I Am Here To Help”

When your child loses it, no matter their age, my favorite phrase is, “I am here to help.” This lets them know that you are their safe place and that you desire to help them figure out a solution to their problem. It’s also a great reminder about who we want to be when they are struggling — a helper. Not someone who adds fuel to the fire.

5. Model Good Behavior and Monitor Your Reactions

We must model what we expect of our children. Avoid reacting to things with strong emotions or establishing punishments that are overly harsh or not well-connected to the behavior they displayed (i.e., the punishment doesn’t fit the crime). Reacting in these ways can leave children feeling unstable or fearful in their relationship with their parents rather than raising them to feel secure and happy.²

We don’t have to be perfect, but be mindful about how you interact with your child, ensuring respectful communication. Also, make sure they see how you interact with others or react to challenges (including how you manage your feelings) because they learn from this.⁴

6. Teach Them About Their Emotions

It’s important to talk with your children about their emotions. They should understand the difference between feeling happy and nervous or anxious and confused. The more they understand their emotions, the better they can communicate their wants and needs.⁵ In addition, if they can recognize their emotions well, they are less likely to feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated by them. They will also be better equipped to cope or manage their emotions if they know exactly what they are feeling and why because we manage or support different emotions in unique ways.⁵

Managing emotions and coping with them helps our kids feel secure and self-efficacious. This is because they believe they can achieve things and meet their goals. When the day comes that they can verbalize their emotional state instead of having a meltdown, it is a massive win in the emotional intelligence department.

7. Accept Them for Who They Are

A child can feel secure and happy when they know they are accepted for who they truly are.⁶ Instead of pushing our ideals and expectations on our children, giving them space to unfold and discover themselves is essential. This is not to say we can’t have boundaries or rules. But we must allow them self-expression and the opportunity to share their thoughts and opinions. Then, they will know who they are and what they need is acceptable and valued.

Raising secure and happy children should be our ultimate goal as parents. It’s not always easy, but you will be off to a great start by implementing these seven tips. And eventually, your kids will thank you for giving them the best start in life!

The dreaded bloody nose in kids. Nosebleeds in kids can be alarming and messy, causing stress among children and caregivers. While trying to keep the mess at bay, you may also wonder what causes your child to have a bloody nose. This article will help you understand why they are happening, how to stop and prevent them, and when to worry about a nosebleed.

What is a Nosebleed?

The medical term for a nosebleed is epistaxis, which refers to bleeding from one or both nostrils. Typically the bleeding comes from the front inner wall of the nasal septum or the wall dividing the nostrils. Many tiny blood vessels are located just under the surface of this wall. Because these blood vessels are superficial, they are particularly vulnerable to irritation, injury, and trauma.^1,2

More than half of children will experience at least one bloody nose by age 10, making them a very common childhood experience. Nosebleeds in kids can be a one-off experience, or they can be recurrent. Most doctors consider them recurrent if they happen five or more times yearly.¹

What Causes a Bloody Nose?

Although the appearance of a bloody nose in kids can be worrisome, they are usually benign. This means most are not due to any underlying cause or disease. The most common reasons for a bloody nose in kids include nose picking and dry air, which causes a dry nose.^1,2

Nosebleeds can also be caused by swelling or infection in the nasal passages and sinuses. This often happens when your child has a cold or seasonal allergies. Medications such as aspirin, blood thinners, and overuse of nasal sprays can also contribute to nosebleeds. Underlying disorders such as clotting disorders, tumors, polyps, and leukemia are possible but not common causes of nosebleeds in kids.²

How To Stop a Bloody Nose

Stopping a nosebleed requires getting the blood to clot. You can encourage this in several ways.

Apply Pressure to Bloody Nose

Hold constant, firm pressure to the bottom third of the nose for at least five minutes straight. This pressure will decrease new blood flow to the area and cause blood to pool and clot. Be sure to pinch the nose’s soft part and not the nose’s bridge. Imagine the child is preparing to jump into a pool. Do not release the pressure to check the bleeding for at least five to 10 consecutive minutes.¹

You can use a tissue to apply pressure to the outside of the nose and catch the blood that seeps through your pinching. However, you should avoid packing the inside of the nostrils with tissues, cotton, or any other foreign material. This can cause more trauma to the nasal wall and worsen bleeding.³

Use Ice To Slow a Bloody Nose

Ice causes blood vessels to tighten, allowing less blood to pass through. This can decrease the blood flow and encourage clotting, thereby stopping a bloody nose.⁴

Applying a bag of frozen peas, an ice pack, or a cold compress to the nose can be an excellent way to stop a nosebleed.

Change Their Posture

Just as you elevate any other wound to decrease swelling and bleeding, it is best to remain upright during a bloody nose. Have your child sit or stand, but do not lay them down. Keeping the nose above the heart makes it slightly harder for excess blood to reach the nose.^3,4

In addition to keeping your child upright while their nose is bleeding, it is essential to tilt the child’s chin slightly down and forehead forward. This prevents blood from running down the back of the throat and decreases the risk of choking on or swallowing blood.^3,4

Consider Medication

Nasal decongestant sprays like oxymetazoline and phenylephrine cause blood vessels in the nose to constrict and can sometimes be successful at stopping the bleeding when administered during a nosebleed. However, these medications have certain age restrictions and risks. Read the label and talk to your child’s pediatrician before administering medications.⁴

How To Prevent and Treat a Bloody Nose in Kids

Here are some ways to prevent nosebleeds in kids.

Discourage Nose-Picking

Since nose-picking is the most common cause of nosebleeds in kids, try discouraging your child from digging in their nose. If your child is old enough to understand cause and effect, you can explain that this habit contributes to their experience of a bloody nose. Hopefully, this will motivate them to stop!

If you cannot get your child to stop picking their nose, keep their nails short and filed to decrease their chances of injuring the nasal wall.

Humidify Your Air

Dry air can cause a dry nose, and a dry nose is more susceptible to a bloody nose. Therefore, try to humidify the air. Humidifiers can be used in your child’s bedroom to moisten their nose while they sleep. You can also look into a whole-house humidifier. This can be particularly useful in the winter months when heated indoor air is especially dry.³

Topical Moisturization

You can try applying petroleum jelly to the lower inner nostril wall to help heal the areas of dryness and prevent future nosebleeds. If this is a recurrent problem, you can ask their pediatrician about a medicated ointment.⁵

Oral Hydration

Make sure your child is drinking plenty of water. This will help keep nasal passages moist, preventing excessive dry noses in kids, thereby decreasing the occurrence of nosebleeds.⁶

Examine Your Child’s Medications

If your child takes any regular medications, examine the labels for side effects of a bloody nose. If dry nose or nosebleeds are side effects of your child’s medication, talk to their provider about alternatives.

Cauterize the Nose

If all other efforts fail to decrease nosebleeds in your child, your doctor may recommend cauterization. This is when a chemical or a device is applied inside the nose to prevent future instances of bleeding.⁷

When To Worry About a Nosebleed

If you have noticed an uptick in the frequency or intensity of your child’s nosebleeds, this is worth mentioning to their primary care provider. You should also mention any bloody noses to your child’s doctor if they are younger than two.

Seek emergency attention if your child’s nosebleed lasts longer than 30 minutes without stopping, involves a great deal of blood, interferes with their ability to breathe, or is the result of an injury such as a car accident.²

Fortunately, there is not much need to worry about in most bloody nose cases. They are a common issue in childhood due to nose picking and dry air. However, knowing how to manage, prevent, and treat nosebleeds when they arise and when to worry about them is still helpful. Always reach out to your pediatrician with concerns regarding your child’s health, and keep these tips and tricks in your back pocket to stop your little one’s next nosebleed.

Someone notifying you that your child has head lice can cause shock, worry, or even embarrassment. Even though a head lice infestation does not indicate uncleanliness and head lice do not spread any diseases, there’s a social stigma and many misconceptions about head lice. Armed with the correct information, you can check for lice and treat your child. You can also take measures to prevent spreading the infestation to others. Here are some critical questions and answers to help you win the battle against head lice.^1,2

What Are Head Lice?

Head lice are tiny insects found in human hair that survive by feeding on blood supplied by the scalp. A single adult is called a louse, and their eggs are called nits. In the United States, kids who attend daycare, preschool, or elementary school and those who live with them are most likely to face an infestation.¹

Symptoms of a Head Lice Infestation

Your child may not experience any symptoms, but here are some to be aware of:¹

• A tickling sensation or feeling like something is crawling in their hair
• Itching caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva
• Difficulty sleeping since lice prefer to be more active in the dark

How Do You Get Head Lice?

Head lice don’t have wings and cannot jump; thus, crawling is the only way they travel. This means one person’s hair coming in direct contact with an infested person’s hair is the most likely way for them to move from person to person. This contact can occur on the playground, at slumber parties, or in sleep-away camps.¹

Transmission through contact with things that belong to someone with head lice is less common but still possible. This is why it is beneficial for kids to avoid sharing personal items such as hairbrushes, hats, ribbons, scarves, or towels. It is also uncommon for head lice to spread by sleeping on a pillow or couch that has recently been in contact with someone with head lice, but hairs that have been shed can have a louse or hatching nit still attached.¹

Can Lice Live in Short Hair?

Yes. Since their primary source of nourishment comes from the scalp, they are typically not far away. An infestation is likely when finding nits attached to hair within a quarter of an inch of the scalp, and treatment is recommended. So, kids with short hair are just as likely to become infested as those with longer hair.^1,8

Do Lice Like Clean Hair?

Even though some people associate head lice with poor hygiene, lice prefer to live in clean hair. Since lice cement their eggs to the hair shaft, it’s easier for the eggs to attach to hair that is clean and doesn’t have much oil.⁶

How To Check For Lice

Ensure you have good lighting and a fine-toothed comb, like those with over-the-counter lice medication. Starting with wet hair can also help make head lice easier to see.

Head lice prefer to lay their nits in hair over warm places on the scalp, so begin your search near the nape of the neck and move upward, checking thoroughly behind the ears. Be sure to search in separated sections of the hair, examining the entire head. Once you confirm an infestation, check everyone in the household for the next 10-15 days.^5,7

To check yourself, use two mirrors, placing one in front of you and one behind you, and check behind your ears for either adult lice or nits. Inspect the base of your head by pulling your hair up and looking closely for movement or lice eggs.⁷

What Do Lice Look Like?

Adult lice are fast-moving, light brown, and about the same size as a sesame seed. They do not like light and may scurry away as soon as you begin checking for lice.^3,5

Lice Eggs vs. Dandruff

Lice eggs (nits) are yellowish tan and securely fastened to the hair shaft. They are about the same size as a thread knot. When checking for an infestation, you may find it challenging to determine what you see: lice eggs vs. dandruff. To determine what is a lice egg vs. dandruff, try to remove it with your fingers. If it doesn’t come out easily, it is a nit. Other particles that may resemble nits can include leftover hair products, dirt, scabs, and sand.^1,3,5,7

How Can You Treat Head Lice?

Once you’ve identified whether it’s lice eggs vs. dandruff, knowing how to treat and kill head lice is essential.

People have tried all types of remedies for head lice, from tea tree oil to mayonnaise. Research studies have not proven the efficacy of essential oils. Also, since the FDA does not regulate them, essential oil ingredients and concentrations can vary widely from one manufacturer to another. Consult your pediatrician on the safety of essential oils for your child. Mayonnaise and other oil-based solutions have been used to suffocate the lice to kill them, but the efficacy of this treatment has not been proven either.⁴

Medicated Shampoos

The only reliable treatments available are medicated shampoos designed to kill lice. If your child is young, you’ll want to check with your pediatrician before choosing a shampoo, as some can cause scalp inflammation and burning. Your child’s healthcare provider may have better options available based on your child’s age. They may also know about local businesses specializing in lice treatment and removal.^1,4

There are several at-home head lice treatments you can purchase over the counter. The best lice shampoos have one of the two active ingredients that have been FDA-approved to kill lice: pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide or permethrin lotion at 1%. Both are effective in killing live lice but not nits, so you must repeat the treatment 9 to 10 days after the first shampooing to kill any fresh hatchlings. Pyrethin medication has only been approved for kids over the age of 2. Permethrin is safe for kids older than two months but always talk to your pediatrician first.⁹

Treatment Tips

Ensure your child’s hair isn’t rinsed with conditioner before lice treatment. Conditioners can prevent the medication from clinging to the hair shafts, and it won’t work as well.¹

It is crucial to follow the directions of the shampoo you choose carefully. Also, avoid using these like regular shampoos. Your child should be fully clothed, not in a shower or bath during shampoo. Because the skin can absorb these medications, you want to avoid having the medicated shampoo on any skin for any unnecessary amount of time. After treatment, your child must avoid getting their hair wet for at least two days since the medication still works.^1,5

After two treatments, some nits may still be attached to the hair but are unlikely to hatch, mainly if found more than a quarter of an inch from the scalp. You can use the fine-toothed comb with the shampoo to remove any remaining lice eggs after treatment for cosmetic reasons, but this doesn’t necessarily prevent the spread of lice.¹

If you’ve completed a full course of at-home treatment and still see lice crawling around, you’ll want to contact your child’s doctor for prescription lice treatment medication.⁹

What Keeps Lice Away From Hair?

Head lice cannot live long, approximately 1-2 days after they have fallen off their food source, the scalp. Nits no longer in their ideal incubation environment of warmth and moisture of the scalp cannot hatch and will die in about a week. Even if a nit did hatch, it wouldn’t survive more than a few hours without feeding on human blood. Prompt identification and treatment of an infestation and preventing lice and nits from coming into contact with hair gives you the best chance at reinfestation.¹

Here are some additional steps you can take.

• Clean any brushes or combs your child has used thoroughly by soaking them for 10 minutes in water at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.⁵
• Bed linens that have come in contact with your child’s hair within 48 hours should be washed with hot water and dried using the hottest possible dryer temperature.
• Stuffed animals can also be put in the dryer for 20-30 minutes.⁵

No one wants to learn that their child has head lice. Unfortunately, it frequently spreads among children, especially during the school year. Knowing how to check for them, treat the infestation, kill the lice, and prevent spreading them to others can help make this common annoyance more manageable.

Uh-oh. Your sweet little one has woken up with red, itchy, and crusted-over eyes. Now what? Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is common, especially in toddlers and young children, and although it looks serious, it rarely is. If your child has pink eye, there are various ways to manage it and several pink eye treatments for kids.

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye, known as conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the eye. It affects the conjunctiva, which is the clear outer lining of the eye and the eyelids. This is what causes the pink or red appearance of the eye.¹

Conjunctivitis can affect one or both eyes and may be uncomfortable for your child. Although pink eye in kids may go away on its own, it is best to seek out pink eye treatment from your child’s pediatrician.

What Causes Pink Eye?

There are several causes of pink eye in kids and toddlers.

• Bacterial infection: Bacteria could be introduced into the eye from poor hygiene, such as rubbing the eyes with an unclean hand. Transmission can also occur through direct contact with an infected individual or contaminated surfaces.¹
• Viral infection: Pink eye is most commonly caused by viral infections, often from viruses that cause common colds or other respiratory illnesses.²
• Chemical irritants and allergies: These types of pink eye are not contagious. Chemicals such as lotions and sunscreens may irritate your child’s eyes and cause eye inflammation and redness. Children prone to allergies may have pink eye triggered by something in the environment, such as pet dander, dust mites, or pollen.³

Pink Eye Symptoms in Kids

Besides the classic sign of pink or red eyes that gives pink eye its name, there are many other symptoms of pink eye in kids and toddlers, and one or both eyes may be affected. Pink eye symptoms in kids include the following:⁴

• Discomfort or pain
• Excessive tears
• White, yellow, or green discharge in one or both eyes
• Swelling
• Itching or burning
• Grittiness or feeling of sand in one or both eyes
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Eyelids that are crusted together in the morning or after a nap

Pink Eye in Infants

Newborns and infants can also get a pink eye infection. If you suspect your newborn has pink eye, they should be seen by a doctor immediately. An infection, irritation, or a blocked tear duct can cause pink eye in newborns.⁵

Newborns can get pink eye from exposure to bacteria while passing through the birth canal during delivery. This can arise from either typical vaginal bacteria or harmful bacteria, such as those caused by a sexually transmitted disease (STD) if the mother is infected. Prenatal care is essential for screening and treating STDs. Treating certain STDs in the mother can prevent pink eye infections in newborns.⁶

Irritants or chemicals can cause pink eye in newborns and infants. Most newborns receive antibiotic eye drops when they are born to prevent infection, which can sometimes irritate the eyes. Luckily, this type of pink eye typically goes away in a few days without treatment.⁶

Occasionally, babies will have a blocked tear duct which causes swelling, discharge, and redness. Our eyes have ducts that produce tears that help keep the eyes moist and healthy. A clogged tear duct may clear on its own as the baby ages, but surgery is occasionally needed to resolve it.⁶

If your newborn or infant has swelling, redness, pain, or discharge from one or both eyes, notify your doctor immediately.

Pink Eye vs. Allergies

If your child is prone to allergies, it can be hard to decipher if it is a pink eye infection or allergies causing red and itchy eyes. There are a few signs to help distinguish the two.

Allergies may cause red and itchy eyes, but this type of pink eye is not contagious. Redness, swelling, and itchiness will be present in both eyes, and your child may have increased tears.³

Unlike a true pink eye infection, thick discharge and crusting of the eyes are not usually present when caused by allergies. This allergic reaction can be managed with children’s over-the-counter allergy medications and by avoiding allergic triggers such as pet dander or grass.³

Is Pink Eye Contagious?

Pink eye infections can be contagious and tend to spread quickly in schools and daycare environments. It’s hard to stop a naturally curious child from rubbing their itchy eyes and exploring their surroundings.

Bacterial forms of pink eye can be contagious, and treatment may require antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a pediatrician.⁷

Many forms of viral pink eye will go away independently in 5-7 days without treatment but are contagious while the child exhibits symptoms. Often, viral forms of pink eye are contagious before symptoms begin, making it more challenging to limit the spread.⁷

Pink eye caused by allergies or an irritant is not contagious as long as no other bacterial or viral cause is present.⁸

Pink Eye Treatment for Kids

You may wonder about pink eye treatment for kids and what you can do. If your child has pink eye caused by a virus, it will typically go away without treatment. This is also the case for pink eye caused by allergies. Your child’s pediatrician may prescribe anti-allergy medications or recommend ibuprofen or Tylenol for pain and swelling.⁸

Bacterial infections require pink eye drops for kids prescribed by a pediatrician. Your child will need these eye drops several times a day and is considered contagious for 24 hours after beginning antibiotic eye drop treatment.⁸

Can Kids Go to School With Pink Eye?

With pink eye being contagious, it is not recommended to attend school or daycare. If your child has bacterial pink eye, they can return to school if they have been on antibiotic eye drops for 24 hours and symptoms have gone away. If your child has viral pink eye, they can return once symptoms have resolved, typically in two to seven days.⁷

How to Prevent Pink Eye in Kids

Teaching your child good hygiene practices will help prevent them from getting pink eye. This includes frequent hand washing with soap and water. Tell your toddler to avoid rubbing their eyes. It’s also helpful to discourage your child from sharing tissues, towels, pillowcases, make-up, and lotions.⁸

If your child has pink eye, keep their clothing and linens separate from the rest of the family’s. It is recommended to wash clothing separately in hot water to avoid contamination. Discard or wash any items that come in contact with your child’s eyes, such as cotton balls or washcloths. Be sure to wash your hands if you come in contact with your child’s eyes and after applying eye drops.⁸

If you suspect your child may have pink eye, contact your child’s pediatrician for more guidance. They can distinguish which form of pink eye your child may have and recommend the appropriate treatment. Fortunately, there are pink eye treatments for kids to make them feel more comfortable and get them back to feeling like themselves again.

Taking your baby’s temperature is essential to their health and well-being. Knowing how to take their temperature accurately and efficiently can help you feel more at ease and provide peace of mind regarding your baby’s health. It’s helpful to have step-by-step instructions to follow to take your baby’s temperature accurately and quickly. We’ve compiled this guide with useful tips to ensure the process is as easy and stress-free as possible.

What is a Normal Temperature for a Baby?

A normal temperature for someone is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. However, 97.5-99.5 degrees Fahrenheit is acceptable.²

A baby’s environment, what they wear, and the time of day can affect their temperature. Unless your baby appears noticeably ill, you will often feel a temperature change when touching their skin. If your baby is cool or warm to the touch, consider the room’s temperature. Is it hot? Do they have too many layers on? Or conversely, is it chilly, and they are dressed too lightly? Have they been sleeping snuggled skin to skin? Do they need socks or a hat? Do they have too many blankets? Adjusting some of these variables may be all you need to do to help your baby feel more comfortable.^1,2

Temperature Indicating a Fever in a Baby

Typically, 99.6-100.3 degrees Fahrenheit is a low-grade fever, and 100.4 is considered a fever by most practitioners. Fever alone is not an illness; it is the body’s way of indicating something is wrong, like an illness or infection, and it must mount a defense.^1,2

Is a Low Temperature Serious in a Baby?

Low temperatures are concerning in newborns and infants. If your baby has a temperature below 97.5 degrees Fahrenheit, it is vital to determine the cause. Did they just have a bath? Were they in the water for an extended time? Have you dried them off well?

Low temperatures can be caused by an inability to regulate body temperature, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), or a serious infection.^1,2,3

Types of Thermometers To Use

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using digital thermometers for infants and children. You should never use old-style glass mercury thermometers to take a baby’s temperature because the glass can break and splinter, and mercury can spill. Glass thermometers can be dangerous and toxic. If you have a mercury thermometer, contact your local trash collecting company for directions on how to dispose of it.^1,3,4,5

Several low-cost digital thermometers are on the market, providing a fast, effective way to take your baby’s temperature. Digital (electronic) thermometers fall into a few main categories:¹

• Multiuse digital thermometers are simple to use and provide accurate results. They can be used under the armpit (axilla temperature), in the rectum (rectally), and orally. However, you do not take a child’s temperature by mouth until age 4.
• Temporal artery thermometers measure your child’s temperature by scanning the blood vessels in the forehead. It is accurate when performed correctly and less invasive than a rectal temperature. These can be used on children of any age.
• Tympanic membrane thermometers measure the temperature in your child’s ear canal. When done correctly, these also provide accurate readings, but they are not recommended for children under six months of age because their ears and ear canals are too small to get accurate readings.

Where Can You Take a Baby’s Temperature?

You can take your baby’s temperature in their bottom, under their armpit, and forehead. Rectal temperatures are the most accurate, followed by forehead and armpit temperatures. These recommendations are approved for babies 0-12 months.¹

Always read and follow the instructions with the specific thermometer packaging. If you decide to use a multiuse digital thermometer, it is a good idea to purchase two and label one for the axilla (armpit) and one for the anus. Labeling will prevent cross-contamination. Always clean the thermometers per packaging instructions after every use. The same idea goes if you have multiple babies. Separating and labeling rectal thermometers for each baby can reduce the spreading of infection from one child to another.^1,2,3,4

How To Take an Armpit Temperature

Axillary temperatures are an effective screening method to assess your baby’s temperature. They are not as invasive as rectal temperatures and offer a safe option posing no risk of injury to your child. If you are concerned with the reading, you can then recheck their temperature with another more accurate method.¹

Follow these steps to take an axillary temperature:¹

• Place your baby in a comfortable position on your knee or at a changing table.
• Make sure their armpit is dry.
• Place the tip of the thermometer in their armpit.
• Gently hold their arm close to their body.
• Hold the thermometer for the recommended time, usually 10-15 seconds.
• Some thermometers will beep when ready.
• Note the temperature on the display.

How To Take a Rectal Temperature

Rectal temperatures are considered the most accurate method to take a baby’s temperature, especially for children younger than three months. If your child appears ill, you may want to skip the axillary method and get a rectal temperature. However, the most significant risk when taking a rectal temperature is the chance of perforation, meaning the thermometer can cause trauma to the rectum by tearing or poking a hole in the surrounding tissue. You should never feel resistance when inserting a rectal thermometer; if you do, remove it immediately. When done gently and properly, rectal temperatures pose minimal risk of perforation.¹

Follow these steps to take a rectal temperature:¹

• Lubricate the thermometer with a small amount of petroleum jelly.
• Hold your baby bottom-up on a firm surface. You can lay your child belly-down on your lap or a changing table. Place one hand on their lower back to prevent them from moving. Use your finger and thumb on the stabilizing hand to slightly part the buttocks.
• Alternatively, you can lay the child on their back on a firm surface. Draw their legs and knees up as if changing a diaper and hold them toward the chest to expose the bottom.
• Turn on your lubricated digital thermometer.
• Gently insert the thermometer into the anus. There should not be any resistance. The recommendation is a half-inch for babies six months and younger and about an inch for older children.
• Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps.
• Note the temperature on the display; write it down.
• Clean the thermometer immediately per package instructions or by using disinfecting soap and alcohol swabs.

How To Take a Forehead Temperature

Temporal artery thermometers use infrared technology to take a baby’s temperature by scanning the temperature of blood vessels and tissue in the forehead area. These thermometers are increasingly used in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices. They are the newest type of thermometer on the market.¹

Both axillary and rectal methods can wake a sleeping child, whereas a forehead temperature can be done in just a few seconds without disturbing the child.

There are touch and non-touch temporal artery thermometers. Accuracy may vary by type and model, and these options are pricier than simple digital thermometers. Again, a rectal temperature will be more accurate for children under three months old. If you are considering the purchase of a temporal artery thermometer, you may want to call your pediatrician’s office for their recommendation. Although most thermometers work similarly, always read your model’s instructions.

Taking a Non-Touching Forehead Temperature

Follow these steps to take a non-touch forehead temperature:¹

• Turn on your device.
• Aim the thermometer at the forehead less than an inch from the skin.
• Keep still and press the measurement button.
• Note the final reading and write it down.

Taking a Touch Forehead Temperature

Follow these steps for a touch forehead temperature:

• Turn on your device.
• Aim the thermometer at your child’s forehead, contacting the skin gently.
• Sweep along your child’s hairline toward their ear, maintaining gentle contact.
• Note the final reading on the display and write it down.

When your child is sick, the world stops around you as you desperately want to make them well. Even the most level-headed, seasoned parents worry about a sick child. Knowing when and how to take your baby’s temperature confidently can help calm a stressful situation. Keep records of your baby’s temperature if you must report them to a health provider. Babies can get sick quickly and cannot tell you what is wrong. Do not hesitate to call your provider if your child is ill. It is always better to have a pediatrician tell you nothing is wrong than to delay seeking treatment only to realize that you should have sought help earlier.

Starting solids with your infant can be a challenge, from knowing what your baby will like or what they might even be allergic to. To make things even more challenging, some common foods are the most common allergens, like eggs, milk, wheat, fish, soy, and peanuts. But eggs are a nutrient-dense, protein-rich food for your baby’s diet. But when can babies eat eggs, and when can you introduce eggs to your baby?

When You Can Introduce Eggs to Your Baby

Introducing eggs can be a stress-less experience and have significant health benefits for your baby. It is essential to remember that you should not avoid egg exposure; you can start introducing your baby to eggs at about six months to diversify their diet.⁴

The Health Benefits of Eggs

Not only are eggs easy to cook and serve to your baby, but they also contain a boatload of nutrients. Eggs are high in protein and fat, two things a growing baby needs a ton of. At this age, protein is mainly used for energy and growth, while fat is used for brain development and protects against infection. The recommended daily amount of protein for a six-month-old infant is 9-10 grams, and the recommended fat is about 50% of their total calories. One egg contains about 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fat, making it a great option to meet your child’s daily needs alongside breast milk.¹

Eggs are also packed with vitamins and minerals your baby needs. Eggs are rich in vitamins A, D, E, K, and B vitamins, choline, iron, phosphorus, calcium, and potassium. The amount of nutrients found in eggs can supplement what is not found in breast milk, making this one of the best foods for starting solids.²

What to Know About an Egg Allergy

Eggs are one of the most common allergens, but that shouldn’t mean you should avoid giving them to your baby.

There are a few preferred ways specialists recommend introducing eggs to your baby, like other common allergens, which can help rule out ingredient-specific allergies. You want to ensure the egg is plain and not accompanied by any other ingredients (even seasoning), as this will prevent any ingredient allergy confusion. Another tip is repeated exposure. This can help with nailing down an allergy if the baby presents with one. The rash they had once after having an egg could be due to the new laundry detergent you bought last week and not the food itself.

It is also critical to be alert and aware of the symptoms of an egg allergy. Egg allergic reactions usually occur within minutes to up to two hours after exposure. Symptoms can include:^3,4

• Hives
• Repeated vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Itchy eyes
• Congestion
• Sneezing
• Tightness in the throat

In rare cases, anaphylaxis can occur and would require immediate medical attention. If you suspect your child is allergic to eggs (or another common allergen), your doctor or allergist can order testing.^3,4

How to Serve Eggs to Babies

Eggs are very easy to prep and store for busy days ahead. There are many ways you can prepare and store cooked eggs.

Overall, you want to ensure you introduce a plain, fully-cooked egg when offering it to your baby for the first time. Avoid using baked goods with eggs as your introductory food or any extra ingredients when cooking them, like milk or cheese.

The easiest way to serve eggs to babies is by scrambling or hard-boiling them. Once fully cooked, you can let the egg cool to a warm temperature (not hot); you can cut the egg into strips for your child to hold and feed themselves. Or you can cut them into bite-sized pieces with a fork or spoon. However you choose to cook and serve your baby eggs, you can ensure they are safe to eat if they are fully cooked.

As your baby gets older, you can start introducing foods with mixed ingredients, like a bite-sized veggie omelet, cheese, and egg with bread or egg and avocado.

Eggs are an egg-celent choice for your baby! Eggs are full of vitamins and minerals to support overall health and protein and fat to keep growth and development on track. Although eggs are a common allergen, research shows that avoiding them does more harm than good. It’s helpful to expose children to allergens when solids start, so it’s a good idea to know when babies can eat eggs and when you can introduce eggs to your baby. This not only exposes them to a variety of foods, but it also rules out allergies while under tight supervision for later in childhood. By six months, babies are ready to try fully cooked eggs with nothing else on the plate.