by Heather
AKA Attend a private puppet show.
Because of a little known program called InfantSEE (a public health initiative spear-headed by former President Carter), Holden’s eyes were checked for major vision problems by a nice person playing with hand puppets and shining lights in his face.
If you ask him, I think he liked it only ok, but I’m telling you that there are at least three good reasons to find a Dr. in your area and go do it:
- It’s totally free
- It’s an outing for you and baby complete with a light show, puppets, and a professional entertaining her exclusively
- And, most important, it will give you peace of mind that her eyes are developing as they should or it will set you on the path to correcting any major vision problems early!
The free program applies to babies from six months to a year in age.
So, now I guess I need to confess that I did this for Holden but didn’t get around to it for Milo… Scarlett, there’s still time for you!
by Whitney
When Heather and I were editing our book, I thought we were including one too many ways to decorate a baby’s chest. I hope we don’t sound like broken records, suggesting embellished onesies for every day of the week. But now, my friend Nila has delighted me with a style we haven’t posted yet, so I must show it off. She just made this felt applique t-shirt for Scarlett and I think it’s pretty cute.
Materials:
Baby t-shirt, hoodie or onesie. Don’t limit yourself to a solid color. Stripes could be really cute with an applique on top.
Embroidery floss. It comes in one zillion colors at fabric or craft stores. It comes in a fair amount of colors at Target.
Needle.
A button or two.
Felt. This is sold in rectangles at craft stores and comes in lots of colors. To preserve your masterpiece, turn the garment inside out when you wash it. This will reduce pilling of the felt.
I don’t think you really need further instructions. Cut some shapes, sew them on. You can do it! For further inspiration, take a look at these adorable similarly styled tiny clothes from Jasper Hearts Wren. Please do photograph your project and post your links here!
Related:
Activity #138: Decorate baby clothes with fabric paint
Activity #88: Design your own baby clothes
by Whitney
‘member those candy hearts that say “Me Too” or “Love Ya”? They’re called conversation hearts. Rookie Moms reader, Veronica, suggests that we use our babies to make cards with this Valentine’s Day theme for our family members this year:
Pay homage to the throwback days when you made Valentine’s for every kid in the class! Have baby pose with a cut-out construction heart and matching attire. Once you have a keeper, use Photoshop or your favorite scrapbook program to add fun, quirky sayings to the “conversation” heart!
Be creative and come up with one for everybody on your recipient list! You can send it as an email attachment or have them printed as a 4×6 picture at your local photo center for an instant keepsake! And if you choose to mail ‘em, don’t forget to order “With Love & Kisses” stamps at usps.com!
Clever idea, eh? Veronica is a SAHM and owner of Secret Stork Surprise, a baby gift business and custom-designed announcements.
by Heather
Early sitters need practice with balance. For Holden, I sit him down in Dwarf Land (pictured) and scatter rattles, toys, and other objects in a circle around him, the baby-sitter, and see what happens.
Watch closely to prevent any embarrassing facial bruises. I either create a “circle of safety” with my arms or pad the area with good-sized pillows.
