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Showing posts with the label Hospital

Books vs community support

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By Dr James Dobson If you have checked out the parenting section of a bookstore lately, you’ve probably noticed hundreds of authors who want to tell you how to raise your children . Have you ever wondered if they really know more than you do? As a psychologist , I believe parents can learn from the specialists. But there is one thing a book will never provide, and that is one-on-one support from mums and dads who are going through the same thing. Our grandparents took it for granted that friends and family would always be there to help. But things have changed since then. These days, the best piece of advice I can give a new parent is: “Yes, read those books, but don’t stop there. Contact your local support group, hospital or family service centre and ask about parenting support groups .” You might find the encouragement and information our forefathers derived from large and loving families. Beyond that, I recommend that you go with your own instincts. You know more than...

Preparing for a New Baby

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Image by Brew*Crew via Flickr By Dr Bill Maier So, how would you feel if your husband brought home another woman? Believe it or not, that's how many kids may feel when a new baby arrives home from the hospital . When young kids struggle with jealousy over a new baby in the house, there are some things you can do to reassure them they haven't been replaced. First, start preparing them during your pregnancy , and make them feel a part of it. Tell them how much you're going to need their help with the new baby . Second, make sure your older children are part of the new baby pictures in the hospital room. Dad should have a gift for them to give to their new little brother or sister. Next, remind them of all the things they can do that the baby is too little for, like feeding themselves, or staying up a little later before bedtime. And finally, when your family makes over the baby, make sure they remember that you have other kids as well. From TODAY, Voices – Monday, 27-Jul-2...