Caffeine is a naturally occurring substance found in some plants, beans, and seeds. Most of the time, it is associated with coffee which contains the highest caffeine concentration. However, caffeine is also found in a number of food and beverages like nuts, colas, hot chocolate and other chocolate products. It can also be found in some medications and other food supplements.

Not many of us realize that caffeine is just similar to other drugs like nicotine and alcohol which has an addictive property, the reason why many people pine for coffee, tea or cola. It gives us a “feel-good-sensation” because it has the ability to stimulate our brain’s pleasure center. The heartbreaking part about caffeine though, is the fact that several studies have strongly implicated it with a number of prenatal risks.

In a longitudinal study done at the two large hospitals in United Kingdom covering 2635 pregnant women subjects, 13% had a baby with fetal growth restriction (birth weight at less than 10th percentile). [1] Higher caffeine consumption was associated to greater chances of having growth-restricted babies. On the contrary, the association between caffeine consumption and fetal growth restriction is reduced for those taking less than 100 mg/day of caffeine. [2]

As far as the above study is concerned, researchers calculated that the odds of having a baby with fetal growth restriction in women who consumed 100-199 mg/day of caffeine is 20% higher, 50% higher for those who consumed 200-299 mg/day, and 40% higher for those who consumed more than 300 mg/day of caffeine. [1]

In another study reported early this year of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, there was an observed association of high caffeine intake with increased risk for miscarriage. The respective rates of miscarriage among women with no caffeine use, 0 to 200 mg/day, and 200 mg/day or more were 12%, 15%, and 25% respectively. [3]

Caffeine consumption during pregnancy is also linked to cryptorchidism. This is a condition wherein one or two undescended testicles at birth persist to at least 2 years of age. [4] This was concluded by a prospective study done at the Center for Research on Women’s and Children’s Health in Berkeley, California. Investigators assessed that sons of mothers who drank three cups of coffee a day during pregnancy were likely to have persistent cryptorchidism. There has been recent interest with cryptorchid children due to their increased risk for developing testicular cancer.

Though the deleterious effects of fetal growth restriction, miscarriage, and cryptorchidism have shown significant linear association predominantly with high caffeine consumption, this should not make any pregnant woman complacent. There is enough evidence to suggest that any amount, no matter how low your caffeine intake, can cause some physical effects on your little one. Caffeine: (a) increases your baby’s heart rate, b) may affect how much your baby moves in utero, (c) can cause you to absorb less iron which is detrimental to your baby’s overall development, and (d) babies tend to store caffeine in their blood for longer periods of time and could have a potential risk to reach dangerously high levels.

Here are some commonly loved caffeinated drinks with approximated caffeine content which you might as well think of giving up.

instant coffee (8 oz) —– 70 mg, brewed coffee (8 oz) —– 60-120 mg
tea (8 oz) —————— 15-45 mg
coca cola (12 oz can) — 34 mg, pepsi cola (12 oz can) —- 38 mg
chocolate milk (8 oz) —– 4 mg, dark chocolate (1 oz) —- 20 mg,
milk chocolate (1 oz) —– 6mg

So if you are pregnant, there’s good enough reason to quit or at least cut back on your caffeine consumption. It may be difficult to give up your morning cup of coffee or tea, but the price is high if you don’t. Just think that you and your baby’s health are far more important than the irresistible taste of brewed coffee!

References:

1. Miranda Hitti (2008). Study: Quit Caffeine While Pregnant Or at Least Cut Back on
Caffeine, Researchers Say, Citing Possible Risk of Fetal Growth Restriction
http://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20081104/study-quit-caffeine-while-pregnant

2. Laurie Barclay, MD (2008). Caffeine Intake During Pregnancy May Increase Risk for
Fetal Growth Restriction. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/583046

3. Laurie Barclay, MD (2008). High Caffeine Intake During Pregnancy May Increase
Risk for Miscarriage. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/569162

4. Scott Baltic. Caffeine in Pregnancy Linked With Persistent Cryptorchidism in Sons
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/570489

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Accidents are common during infancy because parents tend to take in stride what their child is capable of doing. It is important that parents anticipate any potential risks in a child’s environment to prevent accidents from occurring. Aspiration is common during infancy because it is a baby’s reflex to grab and place objects in the mouth. It is very serious because accidental ingestion of a foreign object in the lungs can cause grave respiratory problems. Thus, parents need to be very careful of the things that a baby can grab in his surroundings. Babies may not be able to walk to get objects, but they can surely wiggle their way to getting an object that they find appealing.

Infants are easily attracted to toys. Parents may take for granted toys which are taught to be safe like teddy bears. Teddy bears are well loved by children however parents need to be wary for any parts of it that might come loose. These can be in the form of buttons and other decorative items, which can potentially aspirate your baby. These can also be found in baby’s clothes, and it is safe not to purchase this kind. Parents may also think that an inflated balloon is safe for a child. However, if an inflated balloon is bitten, it can be sucked back into a child’s mouth and cause aspiration.

Choose carefully the toys that you offer your baby. Be certain that the toys you offer your child do not break easily. Otherwise the broken pieces may aspirate your child. In the same regard, choose one-piece pacifiers because it is safer as compared to others. A good way to measure if a toy can aspirate your child is by checking its size. If it would fit inside a toilet paper roll, never attempt to offer it to your child. Always follow the age safety regulations on packages of toys. It does not only indicate a developmental ability of a child, but safety in terms of choking hazards as well.

Parents who start feeding their babies solid foods should also properly choose the food items that are safe for the baby. Common food items that may cause aspiration include grapes, carrots, hotdogs, peanuts and popcorn. Babies still could not chew like adults and these food items can easily slide down their throat, which can lead to aspiration. Make sure that the consistency of the food that you offer your baby is not too sticky because it also causes aspiration. Likewise, it is important to keep products like powder because it can also aspirate your baby.

There are a lot of household items that may cause aspiration. Parents should pay particular attention to round, cylindrical objects or food items because they are more dangerous. These objects can easily slip through the throat and enter the lungs. Parents should never take safety precautions in stride because it can be life saving for your baby. Babies are capable of new things each day, and parents need to ensure that as they explore their environment, their safety remains a top priority.

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Allergies are common among children and adults. Allergens or allergy triggers can be found everywhere. Parents who have a history of allergies need to be extra cautious with their children because they may also have allergy symptoms. Sometimes it can be hard to identify triggers especially if you are exposed to a couple of potential allergens at a time. While it may be true that we cannot control allergy triggers outdoors, there is much that can be done at home.

If possible, choose low pile over high pile carpeting because allergens can easily accumulate on carpeted floors, and vacuums cannot remove the allergens completely. Hardwood and linoleum flooring is advisable because it is easier to get rid of dust mites and dander as compared to carpets. Do not let a family member with allergies do the vacuuming because it may trigger allergy symptoms. An ideal vacuum cleaner is the kind with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate) filter. Poor filtration vacuum cleaners may only stir up and release allergens. Floor rugs should also be washed at least once a week, to prevent the accumulation of allergens.

Molds can thrive in the kitchen because of moisture. Dishes should be washed daily, and sinks including faucets, should be scrubbed to remove molds. Check your refrigerator regularly for mold formation. Wipe dry any spills and moisture, to prevent growth of molds. Make sure that you discard food items that are out of date. Properly discard food wastes in bins so it will not be invaded by insects. It is also good to check the pipes for leaks because it will also promote growth of molds.

Scrub your bath tub and faucets regularly. Mold may also thrive on shower curtains so it is best to change them often. If you can, paint your bathroom walls with mold resistant enamel paint. An exhaust fan can also greatly help in reducing moisture in the bathroom.

Heavy curtains are not advisable because it allows accumulation of dust, and they are hard to clean. Vertical blinds are better because it can be easily cleaned. Other options include roller blinds and shutters. If you really want to use curtains, you can choose washable ones that are easier to clean.

Beddings should be washed once a week, with a water temperature of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to kill dust mites. Place mattresses and pillows in allergen-impermeable covers. These will prevent dust mites and other particles to enter. Plastic or vinyl covers can be used and they are less expensive, however some people may find them uncomfortable. Avoid using wool blankets because they may not only cause allergies, but they are also good dust collectors. Upholstered furniture will also harbor allergens, it is then best to prefer wood, leather or plastic ones.

It will also help if you reduce the clutter in your home. Avoid collecting magazines, books and ornaments because it will only collect dust. Try to organize the things you have at home. Store your children’s toys in plastic containers with cover. When cleaning the house, use gloves and a mask, in order to prevent an allergic reaction. It is also best if you use wet cloths when you wipe away dust. A dry cloth will not be able to absorb dust well.

Try to avoid having too many plants inside the house because these may also trigger your symptoms. It may also be wise not to have pets because they shed allergens in their sweat and saliva. If you already have pets, do not let your pet enter the bedroom. Give your pet a bath at least twice a week because it may lessen the amount of allergen that they shed. Filters on the air conditioning and central heating units should also be cleaned at least once a week.

A cleaning routine in the house can greatly help in reducing allergens. Some areas in your home may be hard to modify like flooring and ventilation, however there are simple steps that can be taken, in order to create a healthier home for your family. After all, allergy symptoms should never be taken lightly because reactions may vary from different triggers.

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There are a lot of birth control methods available for couples to choose from. All these methods allow a woman or a couple to decide whether or when to have a child. There is no such thing as an ideal contraceptive because all of them have side effects.

One important thing though, in choosing which birth control is best for you, is to evaluate your personal priorities. For example, aside from the effectiveness of the contraceptive method, you might also be strongly considering one which can protect you from sexually transmitted diseases, or perhaps you might want to make sure it does not aggravate your medical illness like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Methods of birth control can be grouped into four namely sterilization method, hormonal method, barrier method, and intrauterine device (IUD).

• Sterilization is a surgical procedure done for men or women who no longer desire to have children, thus intended to be permanent. This include tubal ligation or implants for women and vasectomy for men.

• Hormonal method is the most effective and convenient method of birth control. However, it should be avoided by women with risk factors and pre-existing medical conditions. Hormonal method can be a combination of 2 female hormones estrogen and progestin hormones (marketed in the a form a pill, patch or a ring), or a progestin-only hormone which is available as a pill or injection. Progestin-only pill is best for women who breastfeed their babies.

• Barrier methods include male condom, female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, spermicidal foam, sponges, and film. Use of condoms interrupts love making and decreases sensation but among the contraceptives, this is the one that can highly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

• IUD is also an effective means of birth control. However, many women find it uncomfortable because most IUDs contain copper which increases menstrual flow and cramping.

Here is a table comparing the different methods of birth control which are rated according to the number of plus signs. (0= poor, 5=excellent)

Choosing the right birth control method is a personal issue. Remember that taking time to evaluate your own priorities and concerns, and discussing it openly with your health care provider is the key to choosing the best one.

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One of the biggest tasks, which a school-aged child must accomplish, is being able to adjust in school. Parents can have mixed emotions when a child starts school. Although it may be a milestone for the kids, it also brings about anxiety not only to parents, but to kids as well. A child may get so used to being with his family that he will find it hard to adjust in a different environment. Teachers help kids by making them feel at home in the new learning environment. However, parents play the biggest role in facilitating a smooth transition.

Parents need to be totally supportive during this time because it can be a very challenging for a child. Children often get nervous as to how they will be able to cope in a new environment. Parents then need to be extra available for the child at home. This will allow opportunities to connect with the child. Parents need to explore their child’s thoughts about school, in order to properly address their fears.

Transition can be emotionally demanding for a child, and it is important that parents introduce possible activities that a child might be doing in school. These learning activities can make the experience less stressful. You can help your child develop social skills by having him play with other children. Role playing can also help if you can convey usual school activities. You can use your child’s toys to role play a scene typical in a school setting. It can also help if you read books to your child. Encourage participation at all times whether during games, or any learning activity. Parents should also encourage activities like painting and drawing. It will not only promote creativity in you child, but it also gives him a chance to get used to sitting for short periods of time.

It is also necessary that parents explain details like where the school is at, the purpose of going to school, and for how long they will be staying there. Your child may have fears of being physically away from a parent. Thus, it is important to establish trust early on so that your child will understand, that you will be picking him up after a few hours, or after a particular school activity to be very exact. Parents should also continuously encourage that learning is fun and it is best enjoyed with new friends.

A few weeks before school starts, take time to bring your child to the school. This will allow him to have the proper mindset of going to school. Try to establish a routine before school starts so that your child will not have a hard time adjusting. Know the arrangement that the school has for the transition, so you can be there for your child. You can also allow your child to participate in choosing the needed school supplies, which will allow him to grow interest in going to school.

Communication is equally important because it will promote openness in the relationship. Your child may be afraid of an incident with his teacher, or he may be bullied in school. . If open communication is established early, children will speak up about the incident. This will allow parents to act on it accordingly, and prevent a child from having a negative perception of school. If a child seems bothered, and insists on staying home because of various health complaints, then there must be something wrong at school. Reassure your child that it’s okay to be afraid and that you are always there to help him out.

Learning is fun but children need to overcome fears, in order to be able to adapt in a different environment. Parents need to be sensitive for cues, which may indicate that a child is having problems at school. It may also help if parents talk with the child’s teacher, in order to iron out problems. Starting school is a big step for a child, and parents need to prepare as well, so that the child can get the necessary support and reassurance needed to make the transition easier.

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Pregnant women are encouraged to maintain overall health and wellness because many medications are not safe to take during pregnancy. However, as much as you try to protect yourself from getting sick, it may be hard to prevent common illnesses like colds and flu. It is specifically prevalent during the flu season, which begins in early October or November and ends in late May.

Although birth defects can rarely occur from having flu during pregnancy, it predisposes a woman to complications like pneumonia. And to add to that, research has shown that flu and colds last three times longer in pregnant women. The best weapon against flu is prevention. Flu vaccines are safe for pregnant women and even breastfeeding mothers. However, the nasal-spray flu vaccine is contraindicated because it has live, weakened influenza virus.

Common symptoms of flu include fever of over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, chills and sweats, dry cough, muscle aches, weakness, headache, nasal congestion and loss of appetite. If you feel you have these symptoms, it is best that you contact your health care provider. Pregnant women should avoid taking any over the counter medication for colds and flu, if it has not been approved by her physician. The effects of cold and flu medications in pregnant women have not been well studied, so it is always best to get a prescription prior to taking any medication.

Home remedies are quite helpful in relieving symptoms of colds and flu. Air humidifiers work by providing extra moisture n the room, which helps in reducing congestion. If you don’t have an air humidifier, you can fill your sink with steaming water and you can add chopped ginger or add one teaspoon of Vicks VapoRub. Then drape a towel over your head, and inhale the steam for several minutes. This will greatly help in relieving congestion. Another alternative is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol to the steaming water. Eucalyptus is known for relieving congestion, and opening up the bronchial tubes.

It is very important to stay hydrated if you have colds or flu. Congestion is a common problem and by drinking at least 8 cups of water, it can help liquefy the secretions that have built up in your respiratory system. It is also good to avoid caffeinated beverages because it may cause dehydration especially if you have fever. A diet high in Vitamin C can also help by boosting the immune system. Good sources of Vitamin C include orange juice and fruits. Hot chicken has also been found to improve functions of the cilia, which are tiny hair like projections, found in the nasal passages. The cilia functions by protecting the body from bacteria and viruses.

Expectant moms should also get plenty of rest and sleep. This is important because it helps the body boost immune function, and it gives the body a time to recuperate. If you have a headache, you can apply cool or warm compresses to attain relief. To relieve cough and sore throat, you can use honey-based lozenges.

A woman’s health during pregnancy is important in ensuring a risk-free pregnancy. In order to avoid getting a virus, avoid crowds and contact with people who have colds. Pregnant women should also practice proper hand washing often, in order to prevent infection. Although flu can be managed at home, it is still best to contact your health care provider if you do not feel any improvement in your condition after three days, or if you suddenly have difficulty breathing. It is essential that your doctor can properly manage your treatment in order to prevent any health risks, not only to you but also to your unborn child.

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One important concern for pregnant women is whether they had acquired some of the childhood illnesses before getting pregnant. Illnesses like Measles, Mumps, Rubella or German Measles, Chickenpox and Fifth Disease or Roseola Infantum are of particular interest because these seemingly mild illnesses during childhood may have serious effects on the pregnant women or their babies.

MEASLES

This is an extremely contagious viral infection that presents 7 to 11 days after exposure. Patients usually first manifest the “3 Cs” namely conjunctivitis (reddening of the eyes), coryza (watery nasal discharge), and cough, associated with the presence of grayish whitish dots on lining of the mouth. These symptoms are then followed with high fever and appearance of a rash that starts at the head, spreads downward, and fades in the same manner.

If the woman develops measles shortly before giving birth, there is a considerable risk of serious infection in the newborn. The virus does not seem to cause teratogenic effects, but several studies showed that there is an increased frequency of abortion, low birth weight infants, and preterm delivery. The pregnant woman can also develop measles pneumonia.

What you can do? Within 3 days of exposure, the pregnant woman can be given passive immunization with immune serum globulin 5 ml intramuscularly. Active immunization is not done during pregnancy. However, susceptible women are vaccinated routinely postpartum.

MUMPS

Mumps is an uncommon adult infection caused by a virus that primarily infects the salivary glands. Symptoms of fever, headache, malaise and painful enlargement of the salivary gland manifest 12 to 24 days after exposure.

Fortunately, mumps during pregnancy is no more severe than in non-pregnant adults. There is no evidence that it can increase fetal wastage and fetal anomalies.

RUBELLA OR GERMAN MEASLES

This infection by a Rubella virus presents with fever, non-itchy rash, swollen lymph nodes and joint pains, 2 to3 weeks after exposure. Rubella has been directly responsible for incalculable fetal wastage and fetal malformation known as the Congenital Rubella Syndrome. It is one of the most teratogenic infections known.

Several studies have shown 80% of women with rubella during the first 12weeks of pregnancy have a fetus with congenital malformation. This incidence decreased to54% at 13 to 14 weeks, and by the end of the end trimester, went down to 25%. Hence, the timing of maternal infection and fetal organ development determine the likelihood and severity of congenital malformations. Clinical manifestations of Congenital Rubella Syndrome include one or more of the following:
• Eye lesions including cataract, glaucoma, and other abnormalities
• Heart diseases like patent ductus arteriosus, septal defects, and pulmonary artery stenosis
• Deafness
• Meningoencephalitis
• Fetal growth restriction
• Blood disorders like anemia and thrombocytopenia
• Hepatitis, liver enlargement, or yellowish discoloration of the skin
• Pneumonitis
• Bone changes

What you can do? Remember, measles, mumps and rubella vaccine can not be given while you’re pregnant. So, if you haven’t had rubella before nor had immunization when you were you were still young, you should get yourself vaccinated and wait one month before trying to become pregnant. Getting vaccinated soon after giving birth is another viable option.

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Any parent can attest as to how hard it is to get enough sleep during the first few months of a baby’s life. Sleepless nights are common for most parents because newborns are still yet to establish their sleeping pattern. Newborns spend most of their time sleeping. They can sleep for a total of 16 hours a day, but often in one or two hours per interval. Although this is common, a baby’s sleep pattern will become more consistent as the nervous system matures. As time passes, your baby will also be able to sleep longer in between feedings.

At three months old, most babies can sleep up to five hours during the night. By the time they turn six months old, it can be possible for babies to sleep longer. A baby’s sleep pattern is greatly affected by the number of feedings he needs during the night. However, at an early time, there are ways that can be done to help promote sleep for your baby.

It may help if you have some activities during the day with your baby. This can be simply done by spending time with your baby singing, talking and playing. Your baby can greatly benefit from these kinds of stimulation. You can also allow your baby to get used to household noises while you spend time with him. These may include the sound of running water, clock ticking and the sound of other household activities. Activities during the day can help in promoting better sleep during the night.

Parents should also establish a bedtime routine. It is important that your baby will associate these activities with sleep. You can choose activities that are relaxing like baths, singing or reading stories before bedtime. Playing your baby’s favorite bedtime music can also help induce sleep. Although these may sound so easy, it can greatly help in promoting sleep.

Putting your baby to bed when he is almost asleep can help your baby associate the bed with sleep. Avoid putting your baby on his stomach while sleeping because it is associated with SIDS, or sudden infant death syndrome. A good position is to put your baby to sleep on alternate sides. This will prevent respiratory secretions to pool in one lung or the other.

A pacifier can help in settling infants but parents must be prepared for middle of the night crying spells when the pacifier falls off. The use of pacifiers can also lessen the risk of SIDS. It is common for a parent to instinctively pick up the baby from the crib when he fusses. Although this may be good, sometimes it is better to allow the baby to settle down for a few minutes. For some babies, stirring at night is normal and they are just trying to settle down. However, you need to make sure that your baby is not hungry or uncomfortable because stirring or wriggling at night, can also be a sign of your baby’s discomfort.

Although babies normally wake up for middle of the night feedings, parents should try to maintain his “sleeping environment”. While feeding or changing diapers, maintain the dim lights and avoid jerky movements. Your baby can easily mistake night time care for play time if you don’t maintain the calmness in the room.

Babies may have a very erratic sleep patterns. This can be quite tiring for parents who are trying to adjust to the demands of parenthood. Parents need to be supportive during this time while the baby is adjusting to the outside world. Your baby may need constant rubs in the back or cuddling, in order to feel secure enough to go to sleep. Sometimes all it takes is a parent’s presence so that the baby can go back to sleep. Caring for infants can be quite demanding, but the bright side is that, it will soon come to pass. As babies grow older, they will also adapt to sleeping patterns that will allow parents their much needed sleep.

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Skin care for babies has undeniably created a big industry. When you go out to purchase just a baby shampoo, you will find yourself browsing through an aisle filled with so many varieties to choose from. Babies have very delicate skin, and the best way to take care of it is to avoid exposure to any potential allergens and chemicals.

Babies born to parents who have allergies and skin problems should be protected to exposure to such allergens. Typically a laundry detergent that is fragrance free and dye free can be less irritating to your baby’s skin. It is also important to wash your baby’s clothes, blankets and beddings separately from the rest of the family’s laundry. This will minimize any possible contact with allergens that can cause skin problems for your baby. Newly purchased baby clothes should also be washed prior to use.

The immune system of a baby at birth is still developing. With babies who are prone to having allergic reactions, try not to use baby soaps too often because it can irritate and dry your baby’s sensitive skin. You can safely use cleansers and washes because they are mild for babies. A baby who is exposed to too much chemicals early on, can develop skin allergies as they grow older. It is also not recommended to bathe your baby too often because it will only remove natural oils, which serve to protect your baby’s skin.

Parents should remember that babies usually spend their time indoors, and most of their time is spent either feeding or sleeping. Sponge baths can do the job in keeping your baby clean. A simple routine of using water and cleansers are essential during diaper changes. Baby wipes are convenient but choose the non-perfumed and alcohol free variety because it will prevent your baby’s skin from irritation and drying.

Parents often safely assume that when a product is labeled hypoallergenic, it is less likely to cause allergies. However, this will not mean that the product is gentle on the skin as compared to others. A better alternative is to choose natural skin care products for your baby. Although this may less likely cause irritation, parents with a history of allergies should still watch out for any reactions on their baby. There is a tendency that your baby may be sensitive to herbs or botanicals contained in some products.

You can protect your baby’s skin from diaper rash by liberally applying petroleum jelly. It will create a barrier that prevents direct contact with the soiled diaper, which then prevents skin irritation. Frequent diaper changes as well as proper cleansing are also necessary in preventing diaper rash. Avoid rubbing your baby’s skin after a wash. Instead, pat dry your baby’s skin to prevent further irritation. There are also eczema cortisone creams that are readily available, which help in decreasing inflammation and redness.

It may also be wise to avoid using baby powder if you can. Cornstarch based powders are safer for infants because talcum powder can cause lung problems when inhaled. A diaper rash can be caused by yeast, and it can feed on cornstarch. It may not be best to use baby powders if your baby is too sensitive.

If you need to moisturize your baby’s skin, you can use baby lotion. Parents can use baby lotion sparingly for newborns. Some parents would substitute baby oil to lotion, but your baby’s skin does not absorb baby oil well. A good way to use baby oils is during massages. Your baby will greatly benefit from massages because it can trigger hormones and boost immunity. It is also a wonderful time to bond with your baby.

Caring for your baby’s skin may seem too complicated. The truth in the matter is that, the lesser you expose your baby to certain chemicals, the better it will be for his skin. While it may be tempting to purchase so many products, which may be good for your baby’s skin, sometimes it is best to just stick to the basics.

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For the first few months of life, babies can not distinguish caregivers from strangers. When they cry, they can easily be calmed and comforted by any person who make them feel loved and protected, regardless of relationship. By around 6 to 8 months, babies can now identify their primary care giver and realize that there is only one Mommy and Daddy. Hence, when the child is offered by his parents to be carried by somebody unfamiliar to him, the child starts to cry, inconsolable by any person except his parents. This phase of the child’s development is called “stranger anxiety”.

As the child starts to outgrow stranger anxiety, he would then have to pass through another phase of social development called “separation anxiety”. Separation anxiety occurs when the child, who has developed emotional attachment and security with his parents, feels anxious when his parents are gone. A child can exhibit his anxiety in many behaviors such as crying, shyness, clinginess, unusual silence, and unwillingness to interact with other familiar people around him.

Although separation anxiety is normal and temporary, the child must be helped in some ways. Separation may be perceived by the child as a traumatic and distressful event in his life, which can have a lasting psychological and emotional effect. Here are some ways to ease a child’s separation anxiety.

For babies and toddlers:

1. If you plan to leave, schedule it after the baby’s nap or feeding. It is observed that babies are less susceptible to anxiety when they are full and fresh from a nap

2. Acclimatize your baby by practicing separation for shorter periods and distances. A good example is when your child attempts to head off to the kitchen and you are left in the living room, wait for several minutes before going after him. By doing this, you are developing his sense of independence.

3. If you are a working parent, have your child a consistent primary caregiver. It is best that you leave your child with a caregiver who can be there for your child from infancy into toddlerhood.

4. If you must leave your child temporarily under the care of a relative, it is better to ask your relative to come to your house, rather than dropping your child off to your relative’s house.

5. Try to develop a consistent “goodbye” habit (e.g. simple wave or a special kiss) and tell him that you need to go and that you will be back very soon. Avoid repeating your goodbye ritual every time you leave. This will only make your child more anxious and insecure.

6. Above all, maintain a calm, strong and positive attitude toward your child every time you leave. Children are highly sensitive to your facial expression and will know from your voice and gestures. Showing your child that you are also emotionally affected will only reinforce anxiousness in your child.

For young children:

7. Establish trust and security with your child by honoring time commitments. For example, be sure to pick him up from day care or return home at the specified time. In this way, he will feel that your word can be trusted, so that the next time you leave and say that you will be back, the child will feel less anxious because he is already convinced that you will indeed be back as promised.

8. Make your child feel that you care about his feelings by telling him that you will miss him too every time you leave. Make an effort to explain why you need to leave him temporarily (e.g. you need to go to work so your can buy him milk), but assure him that you will be back very soon.

9. Read your child with children’s story books which tell about brave characters, and cite those times when he was brave and has done something independently just like the hero in the story. Role-playing has a big effect in molding the child’s behavior.

10. When separation is set at a later date and you plan to have him taken cared of by a relative, it is best to talk to your child about it in advance. Help him prepare for that day by anticipating positive outcomes and telling him how you can be reached if necessary.

11. If possible, make a call and talk to your child over the phone while you are away. Ask him how he is doing and tell him about feel-good stories. Hearing your voice will make him feel secure and less anxious.

Remember, children will normally outgrow separation anxiety by age 5. By then, they are able to spend time in the absence of their parents with less stress and anxiety. Helping your child ease his separation anxiety will allow him to get exposed to the real world, to experience life to the fullest and to explore new things and horizons.

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