What to do in an earthquake?

Earthquakes can happen at any time, like the one that occurred this morning. So you must be prepared and explain to the children what to do so that they are not afraid.

Inside the earth, there are rocks; when they collide, they break, and the energy released generates waves, which make the earth move; these movements are called earthquakes, states the National Seismological Service (SSN).

So that the tremors do not take you by surprise, it would help if you made an action plan as a family; with this, you can stay safe. These are some recommendations by Civil Protection before an earthquake.

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Prevention measures

  • Locate safe areas: Whether at home or outside, identity where they can take shelter during an earthquake.
  • Have important documents on hand: Keep your children’s IDs and birth certificates or vaccination records in a plastic envelope.
  • Emergency backpack: Keep medications, canned food, a flashlight, water, and a first aid kit.
  • Identify evacuation routes: You need to know how to get out as soon as possible or, if appropriate, the safest shelter areas.
  • Drills: Participate with your children in these activities to be familiar with what to do in an earthquake.
  • Involve your children: Get them involved in the family action plan. Teach them what the safety zones are and that they should be careful with windows, wires, furniture, and objects that can fall.
Children should know how to act in an earthquake. Photo: Civil Protection
Children should know how to act in an earthquake. Photo: Civil Protection

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Actions during earthquakes

  • Keep calm: If your children see you calm, they will be too and face the quake with less stress.
  • Do not run or push: You can hurt someone or make them fall.
  • Stay away from windows and furniture: Glass can break and hurt you, while furniture can topple over in motion.
  • Look for safe areas: At home, they should stand at the beams or load-bearing walls, which are more stable. Outside, stay away from trees, light poles, or power lines.
  • Do not use elevators or stairs: If you are in a building with many floors, it is best not to use the elevator or stairs.

After the earthquake

  • Check your home: Identify if there are fractures or cracks in the walls.
  • Leaks: Look for gas and water pipes to check for leaks.
  • Listen to the news: Find out if the earthquake causes damage.
  • Validate your children’s feelings: Stay alert to their emotions: reassure them, listen to them and tell them that you are always by their side.

Remember that the most important thing is always to take care of the lives of all family members. Teach your mischievous these measures.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

10 skincare recommendations against the sun

Spring is just around the corner; it’s time to leave the warm clothes behind and bring out the shorts, short dresses, and tank tops. So that your little rascal can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind, we share these skincare products against the sun.

Your children enjoy the outdoors; however, after being at the beach or going out on a sunny day, they return with red arms and necks.

In spring, you must take care of your little ones’ skin from the sun.
In spring, you must take care of your little ones’ skin from the sun.

Photo: Pixabay

How is the skin of children?

The rapid change of tone in the dermis when sunbathing is because the skin of children is more sensitive and can burn more quickly than adults, especially children who are less than three years old since their production of melanin (responsible for giving color to hair, skin, and eyes) is lower than that of the grownups.

There is a layer of the skin called the stratum corneum, and it works as a protective shield against sunlight. This layer is thinner in children.

Less sun and more protection

Santiago Bassas Bresca, a dermatologist and member of Top Doctors Spain, gives you the following advice to protect the naughty ones at home:

  1. Sunscreen: For children, the greatest protection is recommended; use a product with a factor of 50+.
  2. Shade for children under one year: It is recommended not to expose them to the sun for babies. If you go to the beach or a pool, keep them in the shade.
  3. Avoid exposure in the most intense hours: Between 10 am and 4 pm is when the sun’s rays are the most intense.
  4. Beware of reflection: Water or sand reflects sunlight and can also cause skin burns.
  5. Apply the sunscreen: Spread the cream all over the body. Apply 30 minutes before sunbathing and every two hours.
  6. On cloudy days, you also have to protect yourself: Regardless of whether there are clouds in the sky, you must follow the same precautions as on a sunny day since the sunrays pass through the clouds.
  7. Do not apply perfumes or fragrances: Before being in the sun, do not put on these products, as they can stain the skin.
  8. Protect sensitive areas: Although you have to take care of the whole body, the shoulders, nose, ears, and the back of the feet are more susceptible to sunburn.
  9. Barrier clothing: Long-sleeved clothing and hats help your child enjoy outdoor sports and activities like hiking.
  10. Do not expose yourself for a long time: You should not abuse time in the sun even if you use sunscreen.
Sunscreen application is very important. Photo: Pixabay
Sunscreen application is very important. Photo: Pixabay

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Babycare

Many moms wonder if sunscreen should be applied to babies. The Mexican Foundation for Dermatology (FMD) comments that it has not been fully demonstrated that the chemicals in protectors are safe for the skin of children under six months, so it recommends protecting them with clothing that covers the legs and arms, with caps, and keeping them in the shade.

The institution also asks parents to promote to their little ones the importance of protecting themselves from the sun so that it becomes a daily practice.

“It is very important to influence the child’s education regarding skin and sun care from an early age. It must be integrated into the practice of recreational and sports activities and daily life.

FMD

Babies under six months should not be exposed to the sun. Photo: Pixabay
Babies under six months should not be exposed to the sun. Photo: Pixabay

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Prevention of skin cancer

The use of sunscreen during childhood can prevent the development of skin cancer, so childhood is a very important stage for care against the sun’s rays and avoiding problems when they are adults, says the study “Effects of solar radiation and updating in photoprotection”, published in the Science Direct journal.

The research comments that children spend approximately between an hour and a half to five hours outdoors, so all routines must be modified both at home and at school to reduce exposure to the sun and decrease the risk of developing skin cancer as adults.

Tell us on Facebook how you take care of your children from the sun.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

8 Basic garments for spring

Winter is finally over, and the season preferred by many has arrived. It’s time to take out our fresh clothes to enjoy the outdoors. These spring essentials will help you choose the perfect look for your children this season.

Whether for a picnic, spring parades, or a pool party with your friends, the Fruits and Vegetables and Spring Party collections, designed by Anahí, have outfits for every occasion. Your mischievous ones will look adorable and very stylish.

The funky watercolor and print designs from the Fruits and Vegetables collection will add a fresh touch to your kids’ style. In contrast, the Spring Party collection’s animal robes and costumes for welcoming spring are ideal for enjoying the sun.

“It was very emotional to design these clothes as they reminded me of my childhood and how much I liked to have fun with my family. I loved being part of the creative process and assembling two such special collections with Baby Creysi for all of your little ones”.

Anahí

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Rompers

Without a doubt, it is a garment that should not be missing from your baby’s wardrobe. The cotton fabric will keep him cool, even on the hottest days.

These rompers will keep your little one cool. Photo: Baby Creysi
These rompers will keep your little one cool. Photo: Baby Creysi

Bodysuits

With its fun prints and cotton fabric, the spoiled little person in the house can enjoy an afternoon in the park.

The fun prints on this garment make it perfect for hot days. Photo: Baby Creysi
The fun prints on this garment make it perfect for hot days. Photo: Baby Creysi

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Footless rompers

This look will give your children the freedom to move and make mischief in the front garden or the park.

The romper is perfect for hot afternoons. Photo: Baby Creysi
The romper is perfect for hot afternoons. Photo: Baby Creysi

Jumpsuits

Girls will be able to explore and play in comfort. The prints add a flirty touch to this outfit.

The jumpsuits are the most comfortable for this time. Photo: Baby Creysi

Robes

This garment should not be missing if your children are going to a pool party with their friends or if they are going on a family trip to the beach.

You can cover your little one with this little robe when leaving the pool. Photo: Baby Creysi

Costumes

Spring school parades are highly anticipated, and in this outfit, your daughter will be an adorable little bee.

This bee costume is ideal for spring parades. Photo: Baby Creysi
This bee costume is ideal for spring parades. Photo: Baby Creysi

T-shirts

These garments are essential in your children’s closet, whether combined with rompers, joggers, or jeans. You can create different styles for all kinds of occasions.

The t-shirts combine with all kinds of garments. Photo: Baby Creysi
The t-shirts combine with all kinds of garments. Photo: Baby Creysi

.

Jeans

This type of pants gets you out of trouble, whether for a meal with the family or a birthday party, they are for all occasions. Jeans help you create many styles.

  Jeans: a basic for any season. Photo: Baby Creysi
Jeans: a basic for any season. Photo: Baby Creysi

Remember that cotton clothes keep little ones cool. Synthetic fibers or wool irritate anyone’s skin, your baby’s too, explains the American Academy of Pediatrics.

What clothes did you like the most? Tell us on Facebook.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

You are not weak; postpartum depression happens to many women

When you become a mother, you face a series of expectations from your family, partner, and society. They make you believe that keeping everything under control and keeping what you feel to yourself is synonymous with strength. Little is said about emotions after giving birth, much less about postpartum depression.

Motherhood transforms you. The arrival of a life that depends 100% on you can be overwhelming, especially when you think that you will no longer be the same as before. If you add the changes in your body after childbirth and the ups and downs of emotions caused by hormones, you perceive yourself as very vulnerable.

Many women experience sadness after their baby’s birth. They may have mood swings, feel anxious, overwhelmed, have crying spells, lose their appetite, or have trouble sleeping. These feelings usually go away within a few days or a week of having the baby and are known as baby blues or postpartum blues.

However, the symptoms of postpartum depression last longer and are more severe. The National Library of Medicine explains that the new mom can feel hopeless and helpless, leading to disinterest in her child.

Moms can feel sad after giving birth. Photo: Pixabay
Moms can feel sad after giving birth. Photo: Pixabay

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A roller coaster of emotions

Many moms keep their emotions to themselves and don’t talk about postpartum depression for fear of being judged. Ani Cuartas, a lactation consultant, says, “Motherhood is a roller coaster of emotions; when your baby is born, on the one hand, you are happy, but you are also haunted by the thoughts that you will no longer be the same”.

People tell you, “You became a mother; your baby is healthy. Why are you crying? Why are you not happy? Why do you miss your old life? You feel like you are in a stadium, and all the lights are pointed at you; in the event of any failure, they point you out. It is a process that very few of us talk about, but it is very important to speak about it; motherhood is a roller coaster, full of emotions”.

Ani says that the love for your child is “the greatest you can feel on the planet”, but becoming a mother implies a reorganization of your activities and that your life will never be the same.

“These are normal things that happen to us due to hormonal change and due to grief, although the word sounds ugly. It is grief because our old self dies and a new self begins… Seeing your child be born, holding him in your arms is the most divine thing that can happen to you as a woman, but you do go through many hormonal, physical, and psychological changes”.

Motherhood can arouse mixed feelings. Photo: Shutterstock
Motherhood can arouse mixed feelings. Photo: Shutterstock

What is postpartum depression?

It is a severe affective mental disorder. Its main symptoms are sadness, high levels of tiredness, sleep disorders, and high cortisol levels, details the World Health Organization (WHO).

Postpartum depression is more common than you think; 1 in 7 women go through it during the first year of their child’s life, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, while in Mexico, it is estimated that 23% of women mothers suffer from it, reveal data from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP).

Remember that postpartum depression is not a sign of weakness or being a bad mother but is part of the change you go through when your baby is born.

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Causes

Although there is no single cause of postpartum depression, the Mayo Clinic discusses some contributing factors:

  • Physical changes: After your child’s birth, there is a drop in estrogen and progesterone levels. In addition, the decrease in hormones produced by the thyroid can lead to tiredness, laziness, and depression.
  • Emotional problems: When you have not slept and feel overwhelmed, it can be difficult for you to deal with everyday situations, making you doubt your ability to care for your newborn, along with feeling less attractive and losing your identity or control of your life can contribute to postpartum depression.
Hormonal changes and emotions contribute to postpartum depression. Photo: Pixabay

When should you ask for help?

Mayo Clinic recommends that if symptoms persist or take on these characteristics:

  • They don’t disappear after two weeks
  • The worsen
  • They make it difficult for you to take care of your baby
  • They make it difficult for you to complete your everyday tasks
  • They include thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby

It would help if you went to a specialist for proper treatment.

Translated by: Ligia Mabel Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

During breastfeeding, there is a crush of love between mom and baby

Movies, television, and everything around you make you idealize motherhood. They have made you see that the moment you breastfeed your baby for the first time will be magical, and your connection will happen immediately. It is not always that way. Fatigue after childbirth, emotions, and myths make breastfeeding difficult.

When you become a mom, you face endless doubts, and every day you discover new things that are a challenge. Breastfeeding is one of them because it is as if it were your first exam on how to be a mother; if you do not do it well, people will judge you, and then you will assume that you are a bad mother so you hesitate to ask for help.

Do not feel bad for not being able to breastfeed your baby; the lack of support and information is one of the obstacles to breastfeeding in Mexico; only 31% of babies are exclusively breastfed in the first six months of life, according to Unicef.

Calm down; not everything has to be perfect, you are learning, and you will often make mistakes. You are not alone; many women want to help and accompany you in this new adventure. Ani Cuartas, a lactation consultant, tells you about her experience.

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From rage to love

Ani remembers her first time facing breastfeeding as the most significant challenge she had as a new mom; emotions and fatigue combined against her; postpartum depression made it more difficult for her to breastfeed her little Julia.

“I didn’t think I would last breastfeeding for six months; at first, it seemed that it was the most demanding, exhausting. Physical exhaustion and hormones made me feel angry about breastfeeding.”

The first month of breastfeeding was not pretty for Ani, so she started supplementing with formula.

“I wanted to feel that I was the good old Ana María that could go out for coffee, but I couldn’t do it because Julia had to eat and everything depended on me. I suffered very strong baby blues. So I complimented my daughter with formula initially because I said that not everything could depend on me”.

Julia started having reflux and constipation; she complained while she slept; this alarmed Ani and made her feel very guilty. She changed her pediatrician, who told her that her milk was of good quality, and she recommended stopping formula. Her daughter recovered, and Ani fell in love with breastfeeding.

“I felt that I was making my daughter sick because of depression and lack of accompaniment”.

One in seven women suffers from postpartum depression, which can occur at any time during the first year of giving birth; this is why women experiencing this condition require much more support for breastfeeding, warns the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Postpartum depression makes breastfeeding difficult. Photo: Pixabay
Postpartum depression makes breastfeeding difficult. Photo: Pixabay

The crush

Once her baby was healthy again, the much-talked-about connection between mother and child when breastfeeding was born.

“I was alone in the house with her; I was breastfeeding her, and Julia unlatched, looked at me, smiled at me for the first time, looking into my eyes. She then went back to breastfeeding. There I said, Here is the connection”.

Ani tells mothers, “This connection with their children is not always immediate, as people would make you believe on television since women go through a very complicated process after giving birth. At such times, what you need most is support and the right information at the right time.”

“I completely fell in love with breastfeeding, I liked it so much that I breastfed my daughter for one year and nine months, I liked it so much that I became certified as a lactation consultant to support and accompany moms in this process”.

The mother-child connection during breastfeeding may not be immediate. Photo: Pixabay
The mother-child connection during breastfeeding may not be immediate. Photo: Pixabay

Ani invites all mothers to seek help when they need it, “It is essential to have a support network so that you do not feel alone”.

She also tells us that in March, she will launch a recipe book in which she combines “The experience of being a mother and making delicious, healthy and easy food for my daughter, together with a gastro pediatrician so that we have dishes that are safe and that we contribute to our children”.

If you want more advice from Ani Castro, follow her on mujermamavilla.com

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Hair dyes in pregnancy: Are they safe?

While you are expecting your little one, each action that previously seemed normal makes you worry that it could harm your baby. Every day a new question arises, especially if you are a new mom; everything is new. If you usually go to the beauty salon, you may wonder about dyes during pregnancy and if it is safe to dye your hair.

Hair dyes have chemicals such as paraphenylenediamine, ammoniacal mercury, nonylphenol, parabens, or formaldehyde; they are used to achieve color resistance to last longer, points out the National Chamber of the Cosmetic Products Industry (Canipec).

Yvonne Butler Tobah, a gynecologist and member of Mayo Clinic, explains that only a limited amount of hair dye and other grooming and styling products are absorbed by the skin. Although if your skin is irritated or has a crack, it may absorb more chemicals than usual.

“Research on the use of hair dyes during pregnancy is limited. These chemicals are generally considered to pose no harm to a developing baby; however, given the lack of available evidence, you may, if you prefer, postpone any chemical hair treatment until after delivery”.

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Although there are not enough studies, doctors recommend waiting to dye your hair. Photo: Pixabay
Although there are not enough studies, doctors recommend waiting to dye your hair.

Photo: Pixabay

When can you dye your hair?

Although recommendations vary, the American Pregnancy Association recommends waiting until at least the second trimester of pregnancy to dye or apply any treatment (such as straightening or perming) to your hair to avoid any exposure of your little one to the chemicals in these products.

“Small amounts of hair dye can be absorbed through the skin; this small amount is not considered harmful to the fetus. The same is considered during lactation. Although no data is available on women receiving hair treatment during this stage, it is known that a small amount of the chemicals would be absorbed into the blood. Thus, the possibility of it entering the milk and putting the baby at risk wouldn’t be likely”.

Fred Morgan Ortiz, a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, explains that all the baby’s organs and muscles begin to form in the first trimester. The chemicals could affect his development.

“The dyes that have peroxides can affect the development of the embryo

Morgan Ortiz comments that natural dyes based on henna can be an alternative; you can also use those that do not have ammonia or whose chemical concentrations are lower.

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It is recommended to wait until the second or third trimester of pregnancy to dye your hair. Photo: Pixabay
It is recommended to wait until the second or third trimester of pregnancy to dye your hair. Photo: Pixabay

Chemical hair treatments

Most hair styling involves chemicals and dyes. The American Pregnancy Association notes that you should also avoid these treatments until the second trimester:

  • Coloring: It includes permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary dyes.
  • Curling: To form curls, a solution is used to keep the hair fixed.
  • Bleaching: It uses hydrogen peroxide.
  • Straighteners: They use sodium hydroxide, potassium, lithium, or guanidine hydroxide, with which the hair is straightened.
It would help if you waited to get treatments like perms or straightening. Photo: Pixabay
It would help if you waited to get treatments like perms or straightening.

Photo: Pixabay

Recommendations

If you decide to color your hair during pregnancy, follow these Food and Drug Administration (FDA) precautions:

  • Follow package directions carefully.
  • Wear gloves when applying the dye.
  • Do not leave it for longer than indicated.
  • Rinse the scalp well after applying it.

It may interest you: Drowsiness during pregnancy? This is why and what you can do

Tell us on Facebook about your experience. Did you wait until after delivery to apply a dye?

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver

Spanish version

Russian baby names

Russian culture offers the world great works of art such as literature, music, the architecture of famous buildings, etc. The language, although it may seem complicated, has beautiful meanings. These Russian baby names will give you options to make a difficult decision.

Russian, Belarusian and Ukrainian are part of the Slavic languages. Russian is based on the Cyrillic alphabet (a writing system used in the Eurasian region), which comprises 33 letters, explains the Russian book for Spanish speakers.

Many of the names on the following list have their origin in Greek and Latin; this is due to the spread of Christianity in that region, says linguist Alexander Sádikov.

You will find the Russian version of many popular Spanish names.

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Russian belongs to the Slavic languages. Photo: Pixabay
Russian belongs to the Slavic languages. Photo: Pixabay

For girls

Letters A-N

  • Aleksandra: Derived from Alexander, of Greek origin meaning protector, so this Russian version means the protective one.
  • Alina: It means attractive, funny; it is diminutive of Adelina.
  • Anastasia: It comes from the Greek Anastasis, which means It was widely used in Eastern Europe, especially in Russia. In addition, it is the name of one of the most famous legends, the lost princess. It is thought that Anastasia Romanov was the only survivor of her family after the Russian revolution.
  • Anna: Derived from the Hebrew name Hanna. It means pious, merciful, blessed by God.
  • Anuska: It means benevolent, compassionate, full of grace.
  • Ekaterina: Of Slavic origin, it means pure.
  • Fedora: Derived from the Greek Theodora, which means gift from God. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the nobility widely used this name.
  • Irina: It is of Greek origin, from the word Eirené, which means
  • Ivanna: Feminine variant of Ivan. The origin of it is Hebrew and means gift from God.
  • Katia/Katya: Derived from Catalina, meaning pure, immaculate.
  • Larissa: This was the name of a Greek city located in Asia Minor; its meaning is the one that is cheerful and willing.
  • Lena: Russian diminutive of Helena.
  • Mila: Name of Slavic and Russian origin means loved by the people.
  • Milena: It means
  • Nadia: It comes from Nadezhda, and it means hope.
  • Natacha: Diminutive of Natalia, it means related to the rebirth.
  • Nikita: Variant of the Latin Nicetas, meaning

Letters O-Y

  • Oksana: Its meaning is praise to god.
  • Olga: it means the immortal one.
  • Petya: It means stone; it is derived from Petra.
  • Polina: It comes from Latin; it means small, humble.
  • Sasha / Sacha: It can be used for boys or girls; it derives from Alejandro, its meaning is
  • Sonja: It is the Russian variant of Sofia; it means
  • Svetlana: It means star.
  • Tania: It has its origin in royalty, so it means beautiful princess or beautiful noblewoman.
  • Tatiana: It is of Greek origin; it means the active one; however, the Russian variant is Taciana, a name to refer to King Tatius.
  • Varenka: It means foreign woman; it is the Russian version of Barbara.
  • Yelena: It is the Russian version of the Greek name Helena; it means light or torch.

Do not miss: Baby names that will be a trend in 2022

These names have beautiful meanings. Photo: Pixabay
These names have beautiful meanings. Photo: Pixabay

For boys

Letters A-L

  • Alexei: Russian version of Alexander, it means protector, guardian.
  • Anatolij: It means originally from Anatolia; it is of Greek origin.
  • Andrei: It has its origin in the Greek word andros, which means brave and
  • Boris: It means combatant warrior; it is very popular in Russia.
  • Dimitri: its origin goes back to the Greek goddess of agriculture, Demeter.
  • Evgenij: It is the Russian form of Eugene and means of noble descent.
  • Fyodor: Variant of Theodore, means he who pays homage to God. This name was very popular among the nobility.
  • Gregori: Derived from the Greek and means watchman. It is the given name of a famous court adviser of the Romanov dynasty, better known as Rasputin.
  • Igor: It means the one who takes care of others.
  • Ivan: It comes from the Hebrew name Yohannan, which means god is merciful.
  • Kirill: Its meaning is
  • Lenin: It means he who comes from the Lena River. It is famous for being one of the prominent leaders of the Russian revolution.

Letters M-Z

  • Mikhail: Derived from the Hebrew Mika’el, meaning Who is like god?
  • Nikolai: Russian variant of Nicholas means the one who leads his people to victory.
  • Oleg: It means
  • Pavel: Derived from Pablo, it means
  • Pyotr: Russian version of Peter, meaning
  • Sergei: It comes from the Latin name Sergio, which means
  • Vanja: Derived from Ivan.
  • Viktor: It comes from Latin; it means who comes out victorious.
  • Vitali It means related to life; it comes from Latin.
  • Vladimir: It comes from the Russian words Vlad, which meaning is sir, and mir, which is world.
  • Yakov: It means follower of God; it is the Russian variant of Jacobo.
  • Yuri: Russian variant of Jorge means the one who works the land.
  • Zhivago: Its meaning is It is also the name of the famous Russian novel Doctor Zhivago.
These are some options for naming your baby. Photo: Pixabay
These are some options for naming your baby. Photo: Pixabay

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Did you like any? Tell us on Facebook which one is your favorite.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver

Spanish version: Here

Happy and strong: this is what the children of Millennial moms are like

Criticism towards the way of raising children is very common, especially if they come from previous generations in which you feel watched all the time, either by your mother, mother-in-law, or grandmother; everyone thinks they know the magic formula about parenting. To all those who have criticized you, you can tell them that: Millennial moms raise happier children.

Most of the mothers in Mexico are Millennials; by 2020, 66.9% of births in Mexico will be to women under 30 years of age. According to Inegi, the average age of the Mexican population is 29 years old.

The Millennial Parents and Education Study, which analyzed 150,000 mothers born between 1980 and 1990, reveals that this sector is not afraid of negative criticism. They are willing to change the way they were raised and how to perceive life.

Research conducted by sociologists from the Walton Family Foundation indicates that Millennial moms have greater access to information, which gives them more tools to face the challenges that parenting entails.

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The average age in Mexico is 29. Photo: Piqsels
The average age in Mexico is 29. Photo: Piqsels

What are the children of Millennial moms like?

The conclusions of the investigation detail that the children raised by this group of the population have the following qualities:

  • Diverse: These types of moms are more interested in promoting in their little ones the importance of diversity and respect for all people regardless of their differences.
  • More communicative: They can better express their emotions and what they think.
  • Nature lovers: Children are concerned about animals and caring for nature.
  • Altruistic: Millennial mothers are witnesses to the selfishness of previous generations, so they encourage their little ones to share what they have and put limits on the competition with others.
  • Multitask: Although they are in constant contact with technology, this does not limit them from doing many tasks simultaneously. Their moms encourage them to get involved in many activities.
Children of Millennial moms can multitask. Photo: Pxhere
Children of Millennial moms can multitask. Photo: Pxhere

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Who are the Millennials?

It is a category spread in the media that brings together those born with the consolidation of the digital era and who became adults with the change of the millennium.

Although there is no agreement on its time limits, it can be said that its starting point of reference is the first years of the 1980s and that it extends until the end of the 1990s, explains the International Youth Organization (OIJ).

Rubén Darío Vázquez Romero, an academic from the Aragón Faculty of Higher Studies at UNAM, comments that millennials grew up with the Internet and easily understand digital communication.

“They point out what they don’t like and that had been normalized, such as systemic violence against women, labor abuse, etc… and they don’t hesitate to use the platforms to build these protests by creating trends and content on social networks that can point out situations and make us aware of them”.

This generation grew up with the consolidation of the digital world. Photo: Pixabay
This generation grew up with the consolidation of the digital world. Photo: Pixabay

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Tell us on Facebook if you are a Millennial mom and if you identified with this article.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

These are the infant formulas withdrawn for having bacteria

The health of your little ones is the most important thing, so you should know that Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare infant formulas, from the company Abbott Nutrition are being withdrawn from the market because Cronobacter Sakazakii and Salmonella Newport bacteria were detected. In Mexico, 16 possibly affected batches were identified.

On February 17, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported investigating four reports of hospitalized children who consumed the formulas above. Unfortunately, one of the little ones passed away.

The FDA advises consumers not to use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas if:

  • The first two digits of the code are from 22 to 37.
  • The code on the container shows a K8, SH, or Z2.
  • The expiration date is April 1, 2022, or later.

Given this, the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) announced that it had identified 16 possibly affected batches in Mexico, which are being withdrawn from the market.

The FDA investigates cases of children who became ill from consuming these products. Photo: Shutterstock
The FDA investigates cases of children who became ill from consuming these products. Photo: Shutterstock

What is this contamination about?

The FDA detailed that the contaminated products were produced at the Abbott Nutrition facility in Sturgis, Michigan. After analyzing samples of the powdered formula of this brand, the Cronobacter sakazakii bacteria was found, which causes diarrhea and urinary infections in people of all ages. Still, in babies, it can be very serious. This bacterium is related to the death of the minor who died, whose case is under investigation.

The results also show the presence of Salmonella, bacteria that cause diarrhea with blood, fever, and stomach cramps.

And in Mexico?

So far, no infection has been detected in our country due to the consumption of the Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare formulas. In addition, the company Abbott Laboratories de México, S.A. of C.V., points out that it found no traces of Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella newport bacteria in the samples it analyzed; Cofepris endorses this.

Although no cases have been found of children who have become ill from consuming these products, Cofepris is withdrawing from the market (department stores, supermarkets, and other businesses) the formulas that make up the 16 batches that may be contaminated.

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How do you know if the formula may be contaminated?

Check the lot number if you purchased Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare products. If in its first digits, it has the numbers from 22 to 37 or contains the codes K8, SH, or Z2, do not consume the formula and report it to Cofepris.

Cofepris detected that the subsequent batches are in circulation in our country and that they may be affected:

Cofepris details the batches that may be contaminated. Photo: Cofepris
Cofepris details the batches that may be contaminated. Photo: Cofepris

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Where can I report?

  • If you identify any of the lots mentioned, contact the Abbott Nutrition company at 800-3688-742 or nutricion@abbott.com
  • In the event of any symptoms or discomfort in your little one related to the consumption of these infant formulas, give notice on the webpage gob. mx/Cofepris.
  • You can also report if you observe that they sell products with the batches possibly affected in any establishment.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Ten childhood curiosities of Harry Styles

The British singer announces a new date for a concert in Mexico City, as part of his Love on Tour. The internet explodes with the news that excites all his fans. We leave you these curiosities about the childhood of Harry Styles.

Music is an excellent element for the development of your children; it not only has a relaxing effect but also stimulates their sensory and motor skills and their memory.

The study, Music and the child’s integral development, points out that music provides experiences that allow children to develop the cognitive, psychomotor, language, social, and emotional aspects. The child’s experience with this discipline must be playful and constant to obtain these benefits.

Research published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience reveals that children who have received musical education (lessons to play an instrument) show better performance in memory exercises and more significant visual and auditory attention.

Music has many benefits for the development of children. Photo: Pixabay
Music has many benefits for the development of children. Photo: Pixabay

If you are a fan of Harry Styles, we share these curious facts about the singer so that you can read them while you listen to his best songs with your little ones.

  1. He was born on February 1, 1994, and his full name is Harry Edward Styles.
  2. His parents divorced when he was around seven years old, so the singer’s childhood was not so simple. Then, he lived with his mother and sister.
  3. When he was a child, his grandfather gave him a karaoke machine where Harry recorded his songs.
  4. Since he was a child, he has been afraid of roller coasters and snakes.
  5. In his childhood, he created the band White Eskimo with his friends. They competed in a band war event in 2009; they won.
  6. The Watermelon Sugar singer worked part-time at a bakery to help with his household expenses and pay for his love of music.
  7. He was part of the Holmes Chapel Hurricanes football team.
  8. As a child, he wanted to be a physical therapist.
  9. In 2010, when he was just 16 years old, he was cast on The X Factor’s reality show, where he performed an acapella version of Isn’t She Lovely by Stevie Wonder. His mother encouraged him to compete.
  10. Since he was a child, he has liked animals, especially cats. Harry has a black and white feline named Dusty.
Since he was a child, the singer showed his interest in music. Photo: Facebook May愛

In addition to these curiosities, the former member of One Direction has mentioned that he would like to start a family and that the name he has thought of for his first daughter is Darcy.

It may interest you: Benefits of singing to the baby during pregnancy: pamper him from the womb.

When skills are nurtured from childhood, great talents are developed. Did you know these curious facts? Tell us on Facebook if you know more.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

Keto diet for children: is it good?

This eating plan has become a trend in recent years and is very popular among celebrities. Low carb intake accelerates weight loss, but is the Keto diet recommended for kids?

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb diet in which the body produces small fuel modules in the liver called ketones, which are used for energy. According to Top Doctors Spain, ketones are an alternative fuel for the body, used when there is a shortage of sugar (glucose) in the blood.

“The entire body switches its fuel supply to run almost entirely on fat. Insulin levels become very low, allowing fat burning to increase dramatically. The body is in a state of ketosis when it produces ketones”.

The Keto diet consists of low carbohydrate consumption. Photo: Pixabay
The Keto diet consists of low carbohydrate consumption. Photo: Pixabay

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A healthy relationship with food

The Keto diet is indicated for particular cases, both in adults and children; it is recommended for children who have epilepsy, so it cannot be applied to every child, details the nutritionist Rosa Ávila.

The restriction of food is not healthy on a physical level since children need to consume all food groups for their development; in addition, by prohibiting products with sugar or junk food, curiosity is aroused, and they likely consume them in secret so that it is necessary to maintain a balance.

“It is a diet you cannot follow in the long term; zero sugar diets are not recommended for children either. It is not advisable to exclude food groups such as meat or carbohydrates; children need all food groups because they serve a function”.

The specialist highlights that to have a healthy diet, it is necessary to adapt the foods made at home and try to include at least three food groups in each meal.

“Diets should not be maintained long-term. To make it easier for moms to incorporate fruits and vegetables, you have to adapt the foods they usually eat and thus modify their meals”.

Consumption of all food groups is important for the development of children. Photo: Pixabay
Consumption of all food groups is important for the development of children. Photo: Pixabay

Don’t miss: Feeding a one-year-old baby: What can he eat?

Negative effects

If your little one follows a Keto diet, he could have low blood sugar, dehydration, and fatigue. He may also have nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, or abdominal pain explains Drugs.com.

Keto diet vs. epilepsy

This type of eating plan is used to treat epilepsy in some children. It is an alternative when medications do not work or have adverse side effects, details the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In these cases, this feeding mode consists of a proportion of 3-4 grams of fat for each gram of carbohydrate and protein. About 90% of calories come from fat, requiring you to eat more fatty foods, such as butter and cream.

The research Epilepsy, cognition, and ketogenic diet published in the Journal of Neurology reveals that the ketogenic diet is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for epilepsies that do not respond to pharmacological therapy; in addition, it shows no adverse effects on cognition or behavior and improves mood, as well as social interactions.

It may interest you: Do you want your children to follow a good diet? Five tips to make your goal easier

A balanced diet is essential for the development of your little one. Do not forget to receive advice from a professional so that your child has adequate nutrition.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Shy children: How can we help them?

Shyness often worries parents. They expect their children to interact quickly and, once they are with others, to make friends. However, everyone is different; we tell you how to help shy children.

Many of the behaviors of the little ones are learned from their parents, so it is super important that you encourage, not force them, to interact with other children and that you teach by example.

Research from the University of San Luis in Argentina indicates that children with difficulties relating to or being accepted by their classmates tend to present long-term problems linked to school dropout and violent behavior. What is shown is that social skills also allow the assimilation of social norms.

We recommend: 9 Tips to help your children make friends

Children learn social skills from their parents. Photo: Pixabay
Children learn social skills from their parents. Photo: Pixabay

What is shyness?

Shyness refers to the feeling of apprehension, lack of comfort, or discomfort that a person experiences when approaching others, especially in new situations or with people outside the immediate environment, explains the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona.

This institution details that shyness is due to factors, such as the environment and personality, but it can also be due to specific stages of life, such as childhood since all children are shy to some degree during their growth.

“Being shy isn’t necessarily a bad thing as long as the degree of shyness doesn’t go to extremes and turn into anxiety or social phobia. Having a certain degree of shyness can be beneficial as it makes us more cautious. The key point is to know how to deal with it and get the best out of each child, reinforcing their self-esteem”.

Hospital Sant Joan de Déu

It may interest you: Friendship among children: Why is it so important to have friends?

Shyness may be part of your child's personality. Photo: Shutterstock
Shyness may be part of your child’s personality. Photo: Shutterstock

Causes of shyness

Erika Villavicencio-Ayub, a researcher at the Faculty of Psychology at UNAM, commented that children learn from what they see at home, so their way of relating will be influenced by the experience at home and family dynamics. These are the main causes for a child to be shy:

  • What place does your child have in the house? Have you met his needs? Depending on how the child is perceived in his home, it will be the way he expresses himself with others. Self-esteem is a reflection of experiences.
  • Aggressive responses. Answers like, You know nothing! can affect how he feels valued.
  • Passive-aggressive language: Some expressions such as Don’t be silly or other sexist ones damage the way your child relates to others.
  • Pandemic: The confinement caused young children to spend half their lives at home. It affects the development of their social skills since they do not know how to interact with others because they were locked up, explains the UNAM researcher.
  • Personality: Not all children like to be around people; some prefer small groups and are more sensitive to new situations, says the Nemours Kids Health.
Passive-aggressive language has a negative effect on your child. Photo: Shutterstock
Passive-aggressive language has a negative effect on your child. Photo: Shutterstock

Psychologist Villavicencio emphasizes, “We are all different and interact differently. Some children are more solitary, but the important thing is that separating themselves from others is not because there is a fear involved that prevents them from integrating with their peers”.

How can we identify shyness?

These are some tips from Hospital Sant Joan de Déu to detect if your little one is shy:

  • Lack of interactive behaviors. He does not participate or ask questions in class, has difficulty starting conversations with others, does not have the initiative to do any activity, or is reserved and distant.
  • Behaviors of fear, apprehension, or anxiety. These feelings are experienced by your little one when expressing an opinion or acting in the presence of other people.
  • Problems related to self-esteem. Feelings of inferiority accompanied by lack of defense. To avoid socializing, some children may have psychosomatic symptoms (tummy aches, dizziness, headaches, etc.).

How can you help your child?

  • Don’t label him: Try not to tell your child that he is shy to justify his behavior in new situations. Let him adapt little by little.
  • Quality time: Allocate time to be with your child and get involved in his affairs.
  • Games: Through playful activities, you can find out if something happens to your little one.
  • Open places: Take your little one to places like the park where he can interact with other children.
  • Limit the use of screens: When they are with the family or in a meeting, do not let them use their cell phones or video games to prevent them from isolating themselves.
  • Maintain communication with the school: This way, you will know if your child has any problems, even if there are bullying problems.
  • Talk with your child: Try to ask him what he liked most about his day, what he didn’t like, and if he had fun. If you ask him how it went, the conversation will not go smoothly.
  • Acknowledge his merits: You must value your little one’s positive attitude towards shyness; this will help you trust his abilities and make you feel more secure on future occasions.
  • Avoid forcing him: Do not insist that your child say hello or not hide. Let him act naturally.
Open spaces like parks are a good place for your child to interact with other children. Photo: Pixabay
Open spaces like parks are a good place for your child to interact with other children. Photo: Pixabay

Do not forget that all children are different and each one has his rhythm to making friends.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

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