If you’re looking for standout species to add to your yard or houseplant collection, consider flowers that look like animals. Sometimes this similarity is a sweet coincidence, and sometimes the similarity brings additional advantages.

Mimicry in plants is a clever evolutionary adaptation. Some species have flowers that look like insects, birds or mammals to attract pollinators or deter plant-eating predators.

Consider these 15 flowers that look like animals when you want a stunning selection of flora that looks like fauna.

Want more gardening tips? Sign up for our free gardening newsletter for our best growing tips, troubleshooting tricks and more!

Stokke is recalling some of its Yoyo3 strollers due to problems with the parking brake. The brake may release during use, causing injury.

No accidents or injuries related to the recall have been reported. “Ensuring the well-being and safety of the children and families who use our products is our top priority,” the brand said on its websiteOpens a new window.

The recall applies to strollers with serial numbers beginning with “142AA” followed by numbers that fall below “0062239.”

The US Consumer Product Safety CommissionOpens a new window advises anyone who has a recalled stroller to stop using it immediately.

To find out if your stroller has been recalled, look for the serial number on the sticker under the stroller seat. To register your cart and receive a full refund, visit https://recall.stokke.com/yoyo3.

“We understand how important it is to choose safe and reliable products for your child,” Stokke says in a statement on its website. “That’s why we’re committed to the safety and well-being of every baby and child who uses our products. We design and test our products rigorously to ensure they meet or exceed all applicable international safety standards.”

The recall affects approximately 2,890 strollers sold at Bloomingdale’s, Crate and Barrel, Nordstrom, Albee Baby, Macro baby, stokke.com, Amazon.com and Babylist.com between September and October 2024.

This story originally appeared on WhatToExpect.comOpens a new window.

Although many parents use advent calendars as a way to build anticipation for Christmas in their children, the tradition is tied to Christianity and dates back to the 19th century, when German Lutherans counted down the days until Christmas with chalk on doors or lit candles.

Advent itself has been celebrated since the 4th century. “Advent”, which is derived from the Latin word arrivalmeaning “arrival,” it used to be a time for Christian converts to prepare for their upcoming baptism, but over time it became associated with the day Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, December 25.

By the 20th century, German manufacturers began making advent calendars aimed at children, and they began to become popular in the United States in the 1940s, when American GIs stationed in Germany sent them home as gifts for their children. Advent calendars have become even more popular when Newsweek magazine published a photo of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s grandsons playing with an Advent calendar in 1953.

The first chocolate advent calendar was produced by the British confectionery company Cadbury in 1958, and over the years advent calendars have become more elaborate, with calendars featuring toys, sweets (including chocolate, of course!), small samples of food and drink, beauty products, dolls, jewelry and more. subjects intended for adults and children. Some of these options can be expensive, but it’s the rare child who isn’t happy with even a simple countdown calendar. It’s worth noting that reusable calendars can contain any type of small item you want, from inexpensive candy to toys to loving notes that spread non-commercial holiday cheer.

Advent calendars are often appreciated by parents because they prevent endless questions about when Christmas is coming and when presents can be opened. For younger children, advent calendars are great for introducing numbers, sequencing, patterns and counting. And for everyone, these calendars are a fun way to make December a little more fun and something to look forward to every year.

Will your baby have a head like a soft peach? Fluffy mane sticking straight up? Curly curls? Whatever your baby’s hair looks like at birth, it will likely change in the first year of life.

In fact, your baby’s hair journey begins in the second trimester, when a fine hair called lanugo develops.

What is lanugo and what does it look like?

Lanugo is a soft hair that develops on your baby’s body around the 21st week of pregnancy. Follicles actually start to form deep within the baby’s skin at 14 weeks, but the hair doesn’t fully emerge until a few weeks later. Described as fine and hairy, the hair is non-pigmented, meaning it has no color.

It usually first appears on the forehead, eyebrows and upper lip before appearing further down the body. Finally, it covers the whole body. Most babies lose their lanugo before birth, but some babies will still have it at birth and for several weeks afterwards.

Why do babies have lanugo?

Lanugo has an important purpose: it helps keep the vernix caseosa, the thick white substance that surrounds your baby, in place.

Also known simply as vernix, this covering protects your baby’s skin from damage from the fluid in the amniotic sac, helps regulate your baby’s temperature, prevents water loss, and contributes to your baby’s innate immunity. Lanugo makes it all possible!

When will your baby’s hair grow in the womb?

Lanugo first appears at 21 weeks, but begins to develop several weeks before. Here’s a quick guide:

Weeks of pregnancy	Milestone
14 weeks	Hair follicles have started to form.
21 weeks	The first hairs sprout on the forehead, eyebrows and upper lip.
22 weeks	Hair is visible on the head, and a fine, downy lanugo covers the body – especially the shoulders, back, ears and forehead.
23 weeks until birth	Melanin begins to be produced, adding color to the hair.
33 to 36 weeks	Lanugo is spilled.
26 to 40 weeks	Vellus hair (peach hair) replaces lanugo.
Birth	Some lanugo may still be present – ​​it will fall out in a few weeks.

Lanugo is just the first type of hair your baby will grow. When lanugo falls out, it is replaced by vellus hair. This is the soft hair that lines our bodies, commonly called “peach hair”.

Finally, your baby will develop terminal hair, a relatively thick head of hair that will eventually spread to the armpits and genitals during puberty.

Interestingly, the hair follicles on your baby’s scalp form a pattern that will remain for life. And new follicles don’t form after birth, so babies are born with all the hair follicles they’ll ever have.

What color will your baby’s hair be?

Predicting your baby’s hair color is not easy. Experts think that many different genes control the precise amount of melanin produced within each strand of hair, but they don’t know for sure how these genes interact to produce the huge range of possible hair colors.

So be prepared for surprises, because your child’s hair color and texture can come from any corner of the family tree.

Also, what your baby’s hair will look like at birth is not necessarily what it will look like later. Babies often lose their hair gradually in the first 6 months of life and new hair grows in its place (this is more common in white infants than in babies of color). What grows back may look similar or be a completely different color or texture.

Signs that your baby will have a lot of hair

Genetics is the strongest predictor of how much hair your baby will have. If you and your partner have thick hair, your baby probably will too.

When will your newborn’s lanugo fall off?

Lanugo usually falls out between 33 and 36 weeks. This means it can fall out in the womb, or, if your baby comes early, it can still be on her body for several weeks after birth.

My babies were hairy, but lost most of it because it was their lanugo hair from the womb.

– BabyCenter community member Carlybabylove

Is it normal for babies to be very hairy when they are born?

Yes, up to 30% of babies will still have lanugo on their body at birth. This is especially true if they were born prematurely, as the lanugo layer may not have been shed yet.

“My babies were hairy, but they lost most of it because it was their lanugo hair from the womb,” she says BabyCenter Community Member of Carlybabylove.

In the first year, babies learn and grow at an astonishing pace. These 12 months are full of exciting developmental milestones, from saying “mummy” or “daddy” to sitting up, crawling, and maybe even taking those important first steps.

Although all children develop at different rates, there is a standard timeline that most babies follow.

What are developmental milestones?

Baby milestones are achievements or skills you can expect your child to achieve or learn in the first year of life. Tracking certain milestones helps you and your baby’s pediatrician make sure your baby’s development is on track.

As you learn what baby milestones to expect this year, keep in mind that this is just a guideline. Every child is unique and develops at his own pace.

If your baby is advanced in one skill (say, crawling or walking), he may be less advanced in another (such as talking). Rest assured, there is a wide range of what is considered normal.

How do I know if my baby has a developmental delay?

Let your baby’s pediatrician know if you notice that your child is behind certain baby milestones from month to month. Here’s a quick guide, broken down by year:

• 1 month: Has feeding problems; does not respond to loud noises or bright lights; does not focus on objects close to the face; or has limbs that appear very stiff or limp.
• 3 months: It doesn’t respond to the sound of your voice; does not smile, chatter, or grasp and hold objects.
• 7 months: Does not cuddle or show affection to its primary caregiver; does not seem to enjoy people; has eyes that do not focus, often cross or appear to be rolling; cannot sit without help; I cannot bear any weight on my legs; don’t chatter; or shows no interest in peekaboo.
• 12 months: Does not crawl or pull to one side when crawling; unable to stand even when supported; or does not try to speak words or communicate with gestures.

If your child is not meeting these specific milestones, his pediatrician may want to check for developmental delays. The earlier potential problems are detected, the sooner they can be resolved, often leading to a better outcome.

“Often at your pediatrician visit, you’ll be asked to fill out a questionnaire about developmental milestones,” says Chandani DeZure, MD, FAAP, a board-certified pediatrician and member of BabyCenter’s medical advisory board. “Read them carefully and answer them honestly to get the best estimate. For children under 3 there is Early interventiona free government program that will come to your home and assess your baby’s milestones and provide services if there are significant delays.”

For more information on how to help your baby meet physical milestones, see Achieving physical milestones through playBabyCenter’s course on using play to encourage your baby’s healthy development.

Worried about your baby reaching their milestones?

A pediatric occupational therapist explains expected timelines and how to help with our Meeting Milestones course

Here are baby milestones to watch out for, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the March of Dimes and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Milestones 1 month old

• He tries different facial expressions
• It can recognize your scent
• Be startled by loud sounds (hearing is fully developed)
• Can see things 8 to 12 inches away (vision develops)
• Enjoys high contrast patterns, especially black and white
• They may be able to hold their heads up for a while
• He may be able to turn his head from side to side during the tummy time

Learn more about your 1-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

Milestones 2 months old

• He brings his hands to his mouth
• Possibly self-soothes by thumb-sucking
• Makes a cooing sound
• He turns his head to sounds, especially your voice
• Visually follows the object in front of them
• He tries to look at his parent’s face
• It has improved head and neck control, thanks to plenty of tummy time
• Makes arm and leg movements smoother
• He calms down when comforted by their primary caregiver
• He can smile

Learn more about your two-month-old baby’s milestones, growth and development.

3 month old milestones

• Smiles socially in response to others
• Raises the head and chest during the abdominal period and possibly supports the upper body with the hands
• A kick when placed on the back
• It pushes on the feet when placed on a solid surface
• Face watches
• Follows objects with eyes
• He turns his head towards the sounds
• Makes gibberish and imitates sounds
• Has improved hand-eye coordination
• He reaches for toys and may be able to catch them
• Open and close your hands
• It might start rolling from stomach to back
• He can laugh

Learn more about your three-month-old baby’s milestones, growth and development.

4 month old milestones

• Smile at familiar faces
• Recognizes objects, such as a favorite toy
• Uses hands and eyes together to reach and grab objects of interest
• He enjoys playing with toys
• He starts babbling, especially when spoken to
• Imitates sounds and facial expressions
• They open their mouths for a bottle or breast when they are hungry
• Keep your head still without support
• Pushes the body to the elbows during the belly
• Can be rolled from stomach to back
• It can be frustrating when it’s time to stop playing

Learn more about your 4-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

5 month old milestones

• He enjoys playing games like peek-a-boo
• He can probably roll over from his stomach to his back
• Lifts and moves objects with hands
• Understands cause and effect (for example, that dropping a block makes a noise)
• It can start (or stop) making noises with objects to elicit a response from you
• May be able to sit when supported by pillows

Learn more about your 5-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

6 month old milestones

• Recognizes famous people
• Enjoys looking in the mirror (self-recognition)
• He reacts to other people’s emotions
• Stick out your tongue and blow (also makes a “raspberry”)
• Pronounces some consonant sounds, like “m” and “b”
• Responds to own name
• They are curious about the world around them
• Explores objects using their mouth
• Shifts toys between hands
• Rolling from belly to back and back to belly
• He probably enjoys jumping on his feet when supported
• He laughs or laughs
• He may try to get up on his hands and knees and rock back and forth
• He may be able to sit without support

“Each baby learns at his own pace!” he says BabyCenter Community member SmileyMiss. “I’d say just keep modeling it. The baby will get it eventually!”

Learn more about your 6-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

7 month old milestones

• Rolls in both directions (belly to back and back to belly)
• He notices and follows distant objects with his eyes
• He reaches with one hand
• Lifts larger objects
• Moves objects between hands
• Uses a “raking” motion to move small objects
• He babbles strings of consonants like “ma ma ma ma”
• It reacts to the emotions in your voice
• He likes to play with you
• He may be able to sit without support
• Can understand some words, including own name and “no”
• They may be able to support their own weight on their legs when held under their armpits

Learn more about your 7-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

I don’t worry too much about milestones. Every baby is different and gets to know them faster or slower. But if you are genuinely concerned, I would tell the pediatrician.

– BabyCenter Community Member Newmomnervous

8 month old milestones

• Sit without support
• He babbles consistently
• Easily transfers objects between hands
• He could crawl
• Can say some words, like “mommy”
• Can catch smaller objects
• It can be attached to a special toy
• They can pull back to stand up

Learn more about your 8-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

9 month old milestones

• He claps his hands
• Attempts to wave
• It raises their arms so you can raise them
• Picks up small objects like finger food
• Remembers the location of toys and other objects
• Understands certain words, like their name and “no”
• It makes many different sounds
• He probably started crawling
• He can come to a sitting position and sit without support
• They can probably get away with stopping
• He may cry when you leave because of separation anxiety
• Can use fingers to point
• He may be afraid of strangers and cling to his parents

Learn more about your 9-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

10 month old milestones

• Experiment with toys by shaking, throwing or banging them
• Copies your speech patterns
• He can probably understand and use some of the child’s sign language
• They can communicate using basic movements, such as pointing to objects they want
• Maybe he’s crawling
• They can pull up to stop
• They could take a few steps themselves

Learn more about your 10-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

11 month old milestones

• Understands more words
• It looks at objects when they are named
• Uses gestures to communicate, such as waving goodbye
• He could say the first words
• You may be able to lift with support and stand for a few seconds
• Can “cruise” while standing and holding on to furniture or a walking toy
• You may take a few steps without support
• You may be able to follow simple instructions

Learn more about your 11-month-old’s milestones, growth and development.

12 month old milestones

• Sit without support
• On hands and knees
• He pulls back to stand up
• He likes to play games like cake with pate
• Crawl
• Cruises (walking while standing and holding on to furniture or a walking toy)
• Explores objects by hitting, shaking and dropping
• Moves objects in and out of containers
• Use a sippy cup
• Says single words, like “daddy” or “uh oh”
• He tries to imitate the words
• Remembers where objects are hidden
• Responds to simple commands
• See the exact image when the image is named
• Uses movements, such as shaking the head no
• Points to objects or people of interest
• Shows preferences for specific people or toys
• He is probably experiencing some separation anxiety
• He can hold a marker and try to scribble
• Can remain standing without support
• Can walk without support

“I don’t worry too much about milestones. Every baby is different and meets them faster or slower,” she says BabyCenter Community member of Newmomnervous. “But if you’re genuinely concerned, I’d bring it up with the pediatrician.”

For nearly 100 years, Benadryl has been an antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms in children such as rashes, hives, and itchy skin. but lately, doctors take to social networks to list the side effects of the medicine, especially in babies and young children.

While you can’t believe everything you see on social media, experts say there’s some truth to the claims that there are better options than Benadryl for babies.

“In the last 30 years, longer-acting antihistamines have been developed,” he says Inderpal Randhawa, MDmedical director of the Children’s Lung Institute at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach. “One of them is Zyrtec, which can last four times as long as Benadryl and often has fewer side effects.”

So does this mean it’s time to replace Benadryl with Zyrtec in our medicine cabinets, especially when introducing key allergens to babies? Here’s what pediatricians want you to know.

What is the difference between Benadryl and Zyrtec?

Benadryl and Zyrtec are both antihistamines, meaning they “block the release of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions,” it says Susan J. Schuval, MD, chief of pediatric allergy/immunology at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital in New York

However, they use different active ingredients: Benadryl uses diphenhydramine, which was approved by the FDA in 1946 to treat allergies (you needed a prescription until the 1980s). Zyrtec’s active ingredient is cetirizine, which was introduced much later – in 1995 for prescription use and as an OTC option in 2007.

“Benadryl does not break down well in humans, so its effects are short-lived and cause drowsiness, dryness (of the mouth and nose), and constipation,” says Dr. Randhawa. “Zyrtec is metabolized in a better way. Lasts longer and doesn’t cause extreme drowsiness.”

The child should take the children’s version of Benadryl every six hours. On the other hand, one dose of Zyrtec for children would last for 24 hours.

Benadryl vs. Zyrtec: Which is Safer for Babies?

This time, social media got it right. Allergists and pediatricians prefer children’s Zyrtec over children’s Benadryl for babies when treating mild allergic reactions such as food allergies, says Jessica Hui, MD., a pediatric allergist and immunologist at National Jewish Health in Denver, who really emphasizes that word, treasure. You should still consult your family doctor before giving any medication, especially if your child is under 3 years old.

However, there are times when your doctor may recommend Benadryl for your baby, she adds.

“There are times when your doctor recommends Benadryl before a test or procedure (such as minor dental work),” says Dr. Hui. “It can be given with other medications to help with sedation,” she adds, because it works faster and causes drowsiness. However, it is important to note that Benadryl could actually have the opposite effect in some babies and make them hyperactive instead of sleepy.

You may have heard that Benadryl can be used before long car or plane rides to help your child with motion sickness. However, this is not the best choice, says dr. Randhawa. “It has some properties to dry out the inner ear organs responsible for motion sickness, but there are much better OTC choices like Dramamine (which is available for children as young as 2).” However, you can always ask your pediatrician what might be best for your child on a trip.

If your baby has a severe reaction, call 911 right away. They will need a medicine called epinephrine and will need to be monitored in the hospital.

– Susan J. Schuval, MD

When to give allergy medicine to babies – and when to seek emergency help for allergies

It is best to consult your doctor before giving your child any OTC allergy medicine. Zyrtec can relieve some symptoms such as rash, hives, cough and sneezing, says Dr. Schuval, so you can give it if you notice any of these symptoms in your baby (after consulting with your pediatrician).

However, OTC allergy medications cannot treat extreme allergic reactions, otherwise known as anaphylaxis (which can be fatal if not treated quickly). Signs of anaphylaxis include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Swelling of the lips, tongue or eyelids

• Vomiting

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• Diarrhea

• Low blood pressure and shock (in severe cases)

If your baby has a severe reaction, call 911 right away. They’ll need a medicine called epinephrine and will need to be monitored in the hospital, says Dr. Schuval. Once you know your child has a severe food allergy or other trigger, your doctor will prescribe an auto-injector (EpiPen) so you can always carry it with you.

Although severe allergies sound scary—and they are—experts don’t recommend giving your child antihistamines like Zyrtec before to the introduction of food allergies with the idea that they can prevent a severe allergic reaction (they can’t). Instead, it is best to safely and gradually introduce common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts and shellfish to children. Here’s how:

1. Introduce an allergen. Although introducing foods with common allergens like peanut butter can stress you out, Dr. Hui says the best thing you can do for your child is to introduce him. “We now have evidence that early feeding of food allergens, such as peanuts, is a great way to prevent food allergies,” she says. Introduce the allergen between 6 and 12 months after talking to your doctor about your child’s allergy risk factors.
2. Go slowly. Introduce one allergen at a time, Purvi Parikh, MDOpens a new window., an allergist with the Allergy & Asthma Network in New York, suggests. You can start with just a little food and then gradually add more as the days go by. She also recommends waiting four to five days to monitor reactions before introducing another common allergen—that way you’ll know which one caused the reaction. Also remember to introduce the food repeatedly, as some babies are exposed several times before developing an allergy.
3. Breathe. While you’re monitoring your child and introducing allergens, give yourself some grace and permission to enjoy the start of solid foods, says Dr. Hui. If you can have a partner with you the first time, that can help too.

If in doubt, talk to your pediatrician about possible allergies. And if you’re not sure whether a food reaction is mild or severe, the safest thing to do is to get emergency help for your child by calling 911.

As strange as it may seem, your cervix can get an official assessment if your labor is induced. (I bet you’ve never thought of that before!) Often, your doctor or midwife will assess your cervix using something called a Bishop score to tell how ready your body is for labor. It’s a bit subjective, but simple and quite effective.

“The Bishop score is very helpful in properly managing induction,” says Shannon Smith, MD, an ob/gyn at the Brigham Faulkner Ob/Gyn AssociatesOpens a new window in Boston and a member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board. “I document the Bishop results for all my patients when we plan induction.”

What is the Bishop score?

The Bishop score is a number your doctor or midwife uses to assess whether your cervix is ​​ready for induction, based on how open, soft and thin it is – its dilation and effacement.

It also takes into account the consistency of your cervix, its position and where your baby’s head is in your pelvis. Sometimes called the cervical score or the pelvic score, it is named after Edward Bishop, who created it in 1964.

Using sterile gloves and vaginal lubricant, your doctor will feel your cervix and rate it based on five factors. They will then use the result to determine how to proceed with your induction. You may be ready for Pitocin to start contractions, or you may need a “cervical ripening” technique (such as prostaglandins or a Foley bulb) to prepare your cervix.

How to calculate the Bishop score

Your doctor will calculate a total Bishop score between zero and 13. The higher the number, the better, which means it will be easier to go into labor with an induction and the more likely you will have a successful vaginal birth.

Here are the factors your provider will look at and how they will calculate your score:

Dilation

How dilated (open) is your cervix, based on the diameter of the cervical opening?

0 cm = 0 points

1 – 2 cm = 1 point

3 – 4 cm = 2 points

6 cm or more = 3 points

Deletion

How thin is your cervix? This number is added up as a percentage, compared to the cervix that is not in labor.

0% – 30% = 0 points

40% – 50% = 1 point

60% – 70% = 2 points

80% or higher = 3 points

Station

Where does your baby’s head sit? This number is calculated based on where the head is in relation to your ischial spines (the bony projections of the lower pelvis). If the head is above the ischial spines, the score will be a negative number, from -1 to -3, with -3 being highest in the pelvis. If it is on the ischial spines, it is considered 0. And below the ischial spines, it will be a positive number from 1 to 3, with 3 being the lowest in the pelvis.

Minus 3 = 0 points

Minus 2 = 1 point

Minus 1 or 0 = 2 points

1 or 2 = 3 points

The position of the cervix

Where is your cervix in relation to your baby’s head and pelvis? It moves forward (forward) as labor approaches.

Posterior position (toward the back) = 0 points

Middle position (centered) = 1 point

Front position (toward the front) = 2 points

Consistency

How does your cervix feel? Is it firm, hard and rubbery, like the tip of your nose? Soft and mushy, like your lips? Or somewhere in between?

Company = 0 points

Medium = 1 point

Soft = 2 points

Sometimes your provider will add or subtract points from your total score based on other factors. They may add points if this is not your first baby, for example, or deduct points if you are more than 40 weeks pregnant.

What is a simplified Bishop score?

Some providers use a shortened, simplified version of the Bishop score. A studyOpens a new window of more than 5,000 first-time women found that the simplified version was just as good at predicting successful induction.

The abbreviated Bishop score takes into account only dilatation, effusion, and station, each of which is worth 0 to 3 points (scored the same as the original Bishop score). A total score greater than 5 is favorable.

What does the Bishop score mean for labor and delivery?

Despite what you may have heard, the Bishop score cannot tell you that labor is about to start on its own. Or, as dr. Smith cautions, “The Bishop score does not predict labor.”

One woman may have a closed cervix while another is 2 cm dilated, she explains, and the woman with a closed cervix will give birth first. “I really wish we had something to help women get closer to their expected delivery time, but we still don’t,” says Dr. Smith.

For an introduction, the higher your Bishop score, the better. If your cervix is ​​”immature” (not yet ready for pitocin), then the chances of a vaginal birth are less and cervical ripening is recommended, he says American College of Obstetricians and GynecologistsOpens a new window.

“If your score is 8 or higher, your chances of having a vaginal birth are the same with pitocin induction as you would be if you went into spontaneous labor,” explains Dr. Smith. “If your score is less than 8, then cervical ripening will be necessary to properly manage induction and maximize the chances of a vaginal delivery.”

After using the cervical ripening technique, your provider will do another Bishop score to assess your progress. The process may take some time.

“My induction started really slow and easy with a Foley bulb and some Cervidil (cervical ripening gel) and eventually we progressed to Pitocin and finally broke my water,” says BabyCenter community member IVFwarriorbabe at Pregnancy group. “It was a slow process for me. It was about 26 hours from the start of the induction to the delivery.”

Keep in mind that the Bishop score is only one tool your doctor will use to determine if you are ready for an induction. They will also take into account factors such as your health and how your baby is doing.

The Bishop score does not predict labor. I really wish we had something that could help women get closer to their expected delivery time, but we still don’t.

– Obstetrician Shannon Smith, MD

Will I know my Bishop score?

You may not know unless you ask. Your Bishop score is not something you need to monitor or be overly concerned about during your induction.

That said, feel free to ask your doctor how they plan to proceed with your induction and what information the result has given you.

For example, if your cervix isn’t dilated or effaced and the baby is still above your ischial bones, your doctor may suggest waiting to induce labor if it’s safe to do so. Or they may advise you to use medication or a Foley catheter to help ripen your cervix if your baby is far down in the pelvis and you are past your due date.

There’s nothing quite like that first rubbery baby smile—it’s a sweet milestone that feels like a reward after those sleepless nights and long days at home with your newborn.

Smiling is also a sign that your baby is starting to develop social communication skills, and before you know it, she’ll be babbling, laughing and clapping.

The smiling milestone varies somewhat from baby to baby. And since babies also smile as a reflex, it can be hard to tell the difference between a “real” smile your baby chooses and one you accidentally catch.

When do babies laugh?

You can expect the first real smile when your baby is around 8 weeks old. This is the “social smile,” which your baby gives to socialize with others. By about 2 months, most babies have started to smile, but some may take a little longer to smile.

“It’s a range. My first baby took a little longer and was generally a more serious baby. It was hard to get her to laugh until she was in her early teens,” she says. BabyCenter Community member of AryaB21. “This one smiled at me for the first time yesterday. She is 7 weeks old.”

What is the difference between a reflex smile and a social smile?

Your baby also has a “reflex smile” that you can see in the early weeks. Babies have the ability to laugh in the womb before they are even born.

After birth, you might witness a little smile while your newborn sleeps or even while he’s rolling around trying to pass gas. A reflex smile is not considered a true first smile because it happens randomly and not because your baby is feeling happy or trying to bond with you.

A social smile is different: it signals that your baby is trying to bond with you and imitates your facial expressions. This level of social connection takes time to develop, which is why it may take some time before your baby is able to smile at you.

Even though your baby doesn’t serve you social smiles right from the start, they’re still learning social skills through your interactions with them. You may notice that your baby is experimenting with applying make-up towards you, trying to imitate what you are doing. In fact, even newborns can imitate facial expressions such as opening their mouths or sticking out their tongues.

Around 2 or 3 months, you’ll notice that your baby is paying close attention to the people around him and may even be starting to “smiley talk” – grinning while gurgling at the same time. This is your baby’s way of making small talk with you.

The more you engage in these attempts, the more your baby’s brain development will progress. Plus, “chatting” with your little one as they learn how to interact with others is probably one of the best parts of the first few months with your child.

How babies learn to laugh

Babies are social creatures from birth, but for smiling to be effective as a form of bonding, a few other factors need to fall into place first, such as their vision developing enough to focus on your face.

A social smile lays the foundation for later social and emotional skills.

– Dr. Kelley Yost Abrams, developmental psychologist

Here’s a timeline of how babies learn to smile and engage in social communication:

A newborn baby

Babies respond to other people and use crying as a way to communicate wants and needs.

But if you try to stare into your newborn’s eyes, it might seem like they can’t really see you. And chances are you seem a little vague to them. Newborns generally have poor vision and cannot focus more than 6 to 10 inches in front of them.

1 to 2 months

As your baby grows, his vision will improve and he will be able to focus his eyes on you and follow your face.

At this age, your baby also has more control over his movements – so he’s better able to mimic your facial expressions, from sticking out your tongue to raising your eyebrows.

2 to 3 months

Most babies will smile at around 8 weeks, but smiling may not become a regular occurrence until your baby is closer to 10 to 12 weeks.

At 3 months, babies become more socially active and look for opportunities to hang out with you. They may try to get your attention by “smiling” or wait until you make the first move by smiling and talking to them before smiling back.

3 to 4 months

Your baby will gradually begin to hold your gaze for longer periods of time, and you may even notice that he saves his best smile for you.

Babies at this age begin to show preferences for familiar people, and it may take your little one a few minutes (or longer) to warm up to someone new.

5 to 6 months

By 6 months, most babies will be smiling, babbling and laughing readily. They may get excited about games of peek-a-boo as they begin to learn that they are separate from you.

You’ll also see hints of your baby’s personality emerge as they start to become more confident and curious about the world around them.

Why do babies laugh in their sleep?

Watching your baby smile in their sleep as they snooze in your arms is right up there on the cuteness scale. But these sleep smiles are different from social smiles.

In babies, smiling in sleep is usually a reflex. Some babies also laugh as they work on gas bubbles in their stomachs. These reflex smiles are much shorter than true social smiles and are not in response to something external like your voice or eye contact.

What if your baby doesn’t laugh?

As with all things in child development, there is a range of normal when it comes to when babies laugh. But if your baby doesn’t show a social smile by about 2 months, talk to your child’s doctor. This could be an early sign of a developmental delay that may need attention.

“Social smiling lays the foundation for later social and emotional skills,” says Kelly Yost Abrams, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist and member of BabyCenter’s medical advisory board. “The sooner any potential delay is detected, the greater the chance that a child will reach their full potential.”

After your baby starts smiling, what’s next?

Once your baby starts smiling, it won’t be long before you see their social and emotional development skyrocket. Here’s what you can expect:

• By 3 months, your baby will try to smile and talk to you and start their own version of a conversation.
• By the age of 4 to 6 months, most babies will be enthusiastically smiling, laughing, squealing with delight and beginning to babble.
• At about 7 months, your baby can respond to his name.
• By 9 months, your baby may be able to clap.
• By 10 months, your baby’s short-term memory has improved so much that he can remember several things at once, but still only briefly.
• By age 1, your baby will likely have mastered waving hello and goodbye and saying “mommy” and “daddy.”

A smile is just the beginning. Each new developmental stage brings more opportunities to engage, connect and have fun with your little one.

Renting Outside the Lines is a series that highlights beautiful rentals and how people make a rental feel more like a forever home, even if it’s a temporary space. You don’t have to own a house to have a home, you can easily make your rental feel like your dream space with just a little imagination and renter-friendly updates.

Imani Keal, 29 years old content creator and interior stylist behind Imani at hometransformed her Washington, DC apartment into a space that truly reflects her bold and eclectic personality. Living in an 850-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment, she embraced her love of maximalist design and unapologetically infused her home with vibrant colors and one-of-a-kind decor pieces.

In this interview, Keal shares insights about her decorating journey, DIY projects, and tips for other renters who want to make their space feel like home, even if it’s temporary.

Creating a bold and eclectic space

When asked to describe his style, Keal says that “bold and eclectic maximalist seems like a good fit.”

True to her words, her apartment is filled with personality, color and layers of interesting decor.

“My style has always been there,” says Keal. “I painted my childhood bedroom hot pink and highlighter orange, so the fact that I love bold colors and maximalist interiors is no surprise.”

Keala’s space is a reflection of her unique taste, from the brightly colored walls to the selected decor that fills each room. He draws inspiration from Pinterest, but also from everyday life.

“I keep a very intense board filled with everything I love,” she says. “But I also get inspiration from everyday things. I paint homes while walking the dog and choose colors based on things I see on the ground.”

This mix of inspiration from online and offline sources helped Keal create a home that felt uniquely hers.

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decorating ideas, design tips and more!

Tackling DIY projects as a renter

One of the most rewarding projects Keal has undertaken in her apartment is the kitchen remodel. As a renter, she doesn’t always have the opportunity to do major renovations, but she still managed to make a significant change.

“As a renter, we don’t have the opportunity to do big remodeling projects,” Keal says. “My landlord paid for part of the project, so my cost was somewhere around $2,000. It was worth it if you ask me.”

Keal has embraced the challenges of renting and is currently working on building an entertainment center and replacing the ceiling fan with something more modern.

While some might find renting restrictive, Keal has found ways to personalize her space with DIY projects that don’t cause damage.

“A fresh coat of paint will change your life,” she says. “Landlords often choose the ugliest, cheapest colors, so a fresh coat of paint will make your apartment feel brighter and better.”

Navigating through the transience of renting

For many renters, the idea of ​​investing time and energy in decorating a space that is not permanent can be a challenge. But Keal found a balance between making her apartment feel like home while realizing that it was a temporary space.

“I hate moving, so I tend to stay in my apartments for a long time – at least two years. “I work mostly in my own spaces because spending 730 days in a place I hate is not a movement,” she says.

This mindset allows her to fully embrace decorating, knowing that even if she has to undo her work when she moves, the comfort and joy the space brings her in the meantime is worth the effort.

Keala’s apartment is a work in progress, and she admits that living between works in progress can be frustrating.

“I’ve been living in a construction zone for over a year and it annoys me. But, I know that in the end I will be so happy that I brought only things into my space that really make me happy,” she says.

Her patient approach to decorating allows her to create pieces that truly resonate with her style and personality, rather than rushing to fill a space with things she doesn’t love.

Splurging where it counts

While Keal is known for her clever DIY projects and budget-friendly decorating tips, she also recognizes the importance of splurging on certain items that will enhance comfort and style.

“I’m cheap with expensive taste,” she jokes.

But she is always serious when it comes to investing in a few key pieces. Her biggest splurge?

“Couch and mattress,” she says. “I can’t stand that ‘mattress in a bag’ thing. I am an adult who prefers a spring mattress.”

Keal’s philosophy is to invest in items that will provide long-term value and comfort, especially in a home where you spend significant time. Whether it’s a comfortable sofa to rest on after a long day or a quality mattress for a restful night, she believes these pieces are worth the extra expense.

Final tips for renters

Keal’s biggest tip for apartment dwellers trying to make their home the oasis of their dreams is simple: don’t underestimate the power of color.

“A fresh coat of paint will change your life,” she emphasizes.

Whether you choose a bold color to make a statement or a more neutral tone to create a soothing environment, color is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to transform a space. For those on a tight budget, Keal recommends thinking outside the box.

“One gallon of paint can be used for the decor and ceiling, which is a unique way to decorate your apartment without breaking the bank,” says Keal.

This creative approach can make even the smallest changes feel fresh and exciting.

Ultimately, Keala’s apartment is a testament to her bold, eclectic style and her ability to make any space feel like home. Her journey as a renter and stylist shows that – with a little creativity and patience – anyone can turn their apartment into a personal oasis, no matter how temporary.

What is a lactation consultant?

“A lactation consultant is a valuable member of your healthcare team who supports both mother and baby, providing individualized plans and building your confidence in responding to your newborn’s needs,” says Monica Murphy, RNC, IBCLC, inpatient and outpatient. lactation consultant in San Francisco and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board.

Lactation consultants are breastfeeding advocates who can help from before your baby is born until the final weeks of weaning. They are qualified to treat common breastfeeding problems along with more serious conditions such as mastitis and blocked milk ducts.

Lactation consultants usually support mothers in how to increase milk supply, find the best position for breastfeeding and manage breastfeeding pain.

International Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) adhere to strict standards. To be accredited, they must complete 90 hours of training, 300 to 1,000 hours of clinical experience, and extensive health science courses. An accredited lactation consultant must also recertify every five years and continue their education.

Whether this is your first time breastfeeding or not, a lactation consultant can help you stay on track and reach your breastfeeding goals. Breastfeeding isn’t always easy – it can be painful, exhausting and even embarrassing if problems arise.

“I wish I had gone to see one when my oldest was a newborn. I was uncomfortable too and felt like I could figure this out on my own,” he says. BabyCenter Community member of GandLsince2012. “In hindsight, the best thing would have been to see a lactation consultant. Breastfeeding is ‘natural’ and yet so difficult. It’s only normal that you need support.”

Here are some reasons why moms stop breastfeeding early:

One study found that 60% of mothers do not breastfeed as long as they would like. But research shows that when a lactation consultant is part of the health care team, moms can breastfeed longer and are more likely to exclusively breastfeed.

One study found that women were more than twice as likely to initiate breastfeeding when they gave birth in a facility with a lactation consultant compared to women who gave birth in a facility without one.

Another study found that four to six months after giving birth, 23% of mothers not seen by a lactation consultant were still breastfeeding, while 53% of mothers who received care from a lactation consultant were breastfeeding.

A lactation consultant can help with:

Working with a lactation consultant

Your lactation consultant will likely be very hands-on, and will see and touch your breasts to help assess and assess problems. It may seem strange, but it will feel more normal at this point, especially if you are trying to help your baby nurse.

The first two weeks of lactation are the most critical time for establishing successful breastfeeding. If you know your hospital or birth center won’t provide a lactation consultant, or you want extra support, you may want to find your own lactation specialist to work with.

You can connect by phone or in person—at home, in their office, or at the clinic—for an initial meeting. Be sure to share your medical history, breastfeeding goals, and any concerns.

Ideally, you will see a lactation consultant within the first three days of giving birth. If they are part of the hospital staff, the lactation consultant may spend about 20 minutes with you as they make their rounds.

Visits with a consultant in private practice usually last 60 to 90 minutes. If possible, plan to breastfeed or pump during your visit. This may mean holding off on feeding for an hour or two in advance – which is easier said than done, as newborns eat on their own schedule.

It is common for your lactation consultant to weigh your baby before and after feeds at outpatient appointments. They will watch you breastfeed or pump, help you with fixation and positioning, answer your questions, solve any problems and give you a confidence boost.

Many women find that one session is all that is needed to solve the problem. However, for ongoing or serious concerns, or for milestones such as returning to work or weaning, you may want to have additional sessions with a lactation consultant. (Three sessions during the breastfeeding period is typical.)

Breastfeeding is ‘natural’ but so hard. It’s perfectly normal to need support.

– Community member BabyCenter GandLod2012

Is a lactation consultant covered by health insurance?

In theory, yes, a lactation consultant is covered by health insurance. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 says non-grandfathered health insurance plans must provide breastfeeding support, counseling and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding.

Your insurance plan will often follow your doctor’s recommendations about what is medically appropriate. Some insurance plans require prior authorization from your provider. So check with your carrier to find out if a referral or “medically necessary” criteria is a prerequisite for your lactation consultant coverage.

If your insurance covers the birth and hospital stay, it should include all breastfeeding services while you are there. If a lactation consultant works with your health care provider or your baby’s provider, those services may be covered by your insurance. Lactation consultants in private practice may not be covered by insurance, and some may not accept insurance.

Contact your health insurance company directly, talk to the benefits coordinator where you or your partner works, or ask your provider or lactation specialist about covered services. Be sure to also ask about any in-network and out-of-network restrictions, and whether there is a limit to the number of consultations covered.

How much does a lactation consultant cost?

The cost of a lactation consultant varies depending on where you live, but typically ranges between $150 and $300 per hour.

Some lactation consultants work on a sliding scale (meaning they will accept a lower rate) if your health insurance doesn’t cover their fee and you can’t afford their regular fee.

If you have health insurance, your lactation consultant visits may be partially or fully covered. Always check with your insurance company before making an appointment so that you are not surprised by out-of-pocket costs.

How can I find a lactation consultant?

To find a certified lactation consultant, visit International Association of Lactation ConsultantsOpens a new window website or ask in your community for an IBCLC.

Childbirth educators, midwives, nurses, obstetricians and pediatricians usually know experienced lactation consultants. Your hospital or birthing center will likely have referrals as well.