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When is the best time to take a pregnancy test? Here’s why timing is everything

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on When is the best time to take a pregnancy test? Here’s why timing is everything

Deciding when to take a pregnancy test can be a little nerve wracking. You may feel especially stressed or confused if it’s your first time being tested. Don’t worry: Once you’re dating, the process becomes a lot less intimidating.

It all starts with peeing on a stick or in a cup: home pregnancy tests check your urine for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Tests usually claim to be 99% accurate when used correctly. But for results you can trust, it is crucial that you slim on time.

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First, a little 101: After your embryo moves into your uterus (during implantation), the cells that will eventually become your placenta begin to produce and secrete HCG. Pregnancy amounts completely increase and enter your bloodstream – and your pee. But HCG levels take time to rise high enough for a pregnancy test to detect.

So when should you mark your calendar for that solo bath? Here’s what the pros recommend.

How long should you wait to take a pregnancy test?

Experts usually say to wait until you miss your period (often around 14 days after conception) or even a few days after that.

Do your best to wait until the time of the missed period to download the test to avoid unnecessary disappointment.

– MD Shannon Smith, OB-Gyn at Brigham Faulkner OB/Gyn Associates

While you might have enough hCG in your urine a week or so after conception — and some pregnancy test manufacturers claim to deliver accurate readings around this time — the hormone levels may not be concentrated enough for a positive result if you are, indeed, pregnant.

During the first few weeks of pregnancy, HCG usually doubles every two to three days (although a slower rise may still be normal). So waiting just a few days can make the difference between an accurate result and a false one.

Dealing with irregular periods can make this one tricky. If you are not sure when your next period will start, try these as benchmarks for the test instead: Counting 36 days from the start of your last menstrual cycle or four weeks from the day you had unprotected sex.

The best time of day to delay a pregnancy test

Good news for early birds: You pee in the morning, so it’s smart to take a pregnancy test right after you wake up. Don’t drink water or other beverages before you go – fluids can dilute the amount of HCG in your urine.

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If you’re in a rush — or not ready for a rollercoaster of emotions before you start your day — we get it. If you plan to take the test later, avoid swallowing large amounts of fluids or using the bathroom for at least three hours beforehand. This will help make your urine more concentrated (it should be a slightly darker color than the typical pale yellow) and give the test a better chance of picking up the HCG.

Are some pregnancy tests more accurate than others?

Yes, some tests are more sensitive than others. (Here are some favorite pregnancy tests.) Check the package and test instructions to understand how early it can detect a positive pregnancy.

But remember, no matter how sensitive the test requirements, you’ll get the most accurate results if you wait to test until after your ghost period. Like Community for bebeCenter Member BcLary1124 put it, “I don’t like testing early because it’s just ‘bleh’ feeling the negatives. I’d rather wait until it’s definitely safe after a missed period.”

“The earlier you try to test, the greater the chance of a false negative — meaning the test says you’re not pregnant when you are,” says Shannon Smith, MD. Gyn at Brigham Faulkner OB/Gyn Associates and member of the Medical Advisory Board for bebeCenter.

Testing too early is actually the most common mistake Dr. Smith sees his patients. If you’re hoping to get pregnant, she advises, “Do your best to wait until after your missed period to take the test and avoid unnecessary disappointment.”

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Your healthcare provider may also order a pregnancy blood test, which measures HCG in your bloodstream. A sample is usually collected from a vein in your arm in their office or hospital and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Pregnancy blood tests can pick up much smaller amounts of hormones and catch your pregnancy earlier. Blood HCG can be detected as early as six to eight days after ovulation (or about 6 to 8 days before your period starts, depending on how long these cycles usually are).

This route is not common because blood tests are more expensive and results take longer. But your provider may recommend one if they want a closer look at the HCG level, if you have a history of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, if your urine test results are unclear, or if you’ve experienced any menstrual bleeding with a positive home test.

Should I take another home pregnancy test?

Yes – there’s a good reason many pregnancy tests come in packs of two or three. To be sure of your results, wait a few days and take another test, ideally a few days after your expected period.

Again, a negative result does not necessarily mean that you are no Pregnant. You may have tested too early, or you may have ovulated later than you thought and are not far enough along for the test to be effective. It’s also possible that you didn’t follow the instructions exactly – hey, it happens! – or drank a lot of water and diluted the urine. (For more on common mistakes, here’s what not to do before taking a pregnancy test.)

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After you take another test

  • If you get another negative result And I still haven’t gotten my period, call your provider. They may recommend a visit to check things out.
  • If you get a positive resultcall your provider. They will likely recommend a blood test or ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy. (Note that if you are taking fertility drugs, false positives can happen, so the results may need to be confirmed by your doctor. A chemical pregnancy can also trigger a false positive.)
  • If you Get mixed results – Say, a few negatives followed by a positive or vice versa – call your service provider. You may need an ultrasound as a next step.

Bottom line: Getting comfortable with home pregnancy tests takes some trial and error. But the sooner you know you’re expecting, the sooner you can consider all your options and decide what’s next. And if you’re already curious, use our due date calculator to find an estimated due date. Trust us, time will fly!

Baby Geniuses Film Review | Common Sense Media

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on Baby Geniuses Film Review | Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media Review

By Scott G. Mignola

,
based on child development research. How do we rate?


age 10+







A bad sitcom of a movie.


age 9+







Based on 7 parent reviews

Alyssa W.

January 25, 2022


age 2+







A slapstick B movie

Well, we like B movies, bad movies from the 90s, etc. There is a time and a place for them! I saw this movie as a kid and my wild young boys love it. There’s talking babies, building escape devices, swapping places, bad guys who aren’t scary, a teenager trying to figure himself out, a helicopter rescue… what’s not to love!? If your family is okay with silly humor (ours is), then it’s fine. 2 moments of romantic suggestion from parents. One of them is the husband kissing the wife’s neck for a long period of time. My 5 year old noticed this recently and wondered why he was doing it. My answer: “husband just being cute and kissing his wife.” And no other explanation is needed. If you have a child who likes things like Home Alone, then this is a good choice. Bonus, the bad guys aren’t as scary as in House of Sam!!

PumpkinSpiceMomma

May 25, 2020


age 12+







what even-

This is obviously aimed at older kids, but the “jokes” are very childish, it’s a BAD movie

What is the story?

Child behaviorist Elena Kinder (Kathleen Turner) theorizes that all children possess “stored knowledge from the early parental gene pool” that makes them privy to the secrets of the universe, but that only lasts until they start talking, when they forget everything. That theory, tested in the controlled environment of Kinder’s secret laboratory, proves to be correct. One of the children in BABY GENIUSES, Sly, escapes from the estate and is reunited with his twin brother Whit (a double role for the triplets Leo, Myles and Gerry Fitzgerald). Mistook him for his brother by Kinder’s henchmen, Whit is returned to the research center where he leads his other young children in a rebellion against their captors. At home, Sly does the same, enlisting the help of another group of babies to help free his friends and reunite him with the brother he never knew he had.

Is it good?

Several factors work together to create it Baby Geniuses a joyless viewing experience. Let’s start with the premise, which is nothing more than a veiled excuse for the misuse of digital effects so that the mouths and actions of toddlers can imitate the mouths and actions of adults. The result: supposedly brilliant kids who spend their time parodying themselves Saturday Night Fever and thinking about “diaper dip”. The humor seems to be aimed primarily at a young audience, yet certain scenes are clearly inappropriate for them. After genius Sly escapes — by stowing away in a P. Oopie Bottoms diaper truck — he bites a homeless man and takes his clothes, then jumps into an unattended cart and tells the little girl inside, “Look, I’ve got a problem, take off your clothes.” “Okay, slime,” she says, “but at least you could take me out to dinner first.” A moment later he emerges from the cart in her clothes. “Call me,” she says.

To the film’s credit, it manages to make the kids seem at least as intelligent as the adults, but even there it has some help. Kathleen Turner, who by now must surely know what the bottom of the barrel tastes like, reaches for something akin to Glenn Close’s striking performance in 101 Dalmatiansbut her angry snarl is just embarrassing. There are many other keys in the works, one of which always hits master Dom DeLuise in the grape, but there’s no need to press the point. Suffice it to say that Bob Clark, who somehow also wrote and directed the funny and quirky 1983 movies. A Christmas Storyhe can suffer for his art as much as he likes; he doesn’t have to drag us into it.

Talk to your kids about…

Did we miss something about diversity?

Research shows a connection between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews, which will be published continuously. You can help us help children

How much does a kitchen really cost?

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on How much does a kitchen really cost?

Low High Average
Basic 3,000 dollars 6000 dollars $4,500
Upper basic $14,000 20,000 dollars $17,000
Mid range $17,000 24,000 dollars $20,500
Premium 20,000 dollars 50,000 dollars 35,000 dollars
Overall average $13,500 $25,000 $19,250

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The cost of a kitchen island rating

Basic island

“A basic island without plumbing or electrical wiring, using mid-range materials, can cost between $3,000 and $6,000,” says Elizabeth Johnson of Liz Johnson Design Studio.

Size and features such as additional storage, cabinetry functionality, quality of materials and labor, and the need for a sink or cooktop will affect the final cost.

Upper base island

Features Look up kitchen island costs, he says Lindsey neal by Lamont Bros. design and construction. Neal estimates that a basic island with added features can cost as much as $14,000 to $20,000.

Middle class island

There is a significant cost overlap between entry-level and mid-range kitchen islands. Mid-range islands can cost between $17,000 and $24,000, says Lindsey Neal.

Premium island

“In high-end homes, a premium kitchen island can range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more,” says Alan Berman, Archetype Architects.

Large kitchen islands in the upper price range, Berman says, can have quartzite countertops, custom cabinetry, integrated appliances and faucets.

PREFAB vs COST CENTER

A prefab kitchen island generally costs less than a custom-made island.

Small, basic, pre-fab islands start around $500, and a custom island can easily be over $5,000, Newcomb says.

A rolling kitchen cart works well in space-challenged kitchens because it’s smaller and can be moved around as needed. A rolling cart kitchen cart with butcher blocks can cost as little as $200 to $500.

Do you need a kitchen island?

Kitchen islands are usually a smart addition when space and budget permit.

“They offer additional prep surfaces, serve as gathering spaces during social events, and add valuable storage and functionality,” says Johnson.

When determining whether an island is right for your kitchen, Johnson advises considering three factors: whether the existing counter space is sufficient, floor space limitations, and your cooking habits.

For a larger kitchen with seating, Berman says she helps clients make decisions by evaluating their lifestyle.

“We ask questions like: Do they entertain often? Do they need additional seating or prep space? Are you looking for more storage or a design hub?” Berman says.

Space planning for the island

“A typical island kitchen should be proportional to the overall look of the kitchen,” he says Alice Moszczynski, Interior designer with planner 5d.

Moszczynski notes that a typical kitchen island is 2 meters wide by 4 meters. If space permits, homeowners may want the island to be 3 to 4 feet wide and 6 feet long.

“A well-planned island should complement the flow of the kitchen, not detract from it,” says Berman. “So ensuring at least 42 to 48 centimeters of clearance around the island is critical.”

Major cost drivers

The main factors that determine kitchen island costs are size and materials, features, utilities and custom design, says Berman.

Size

The size directly affects the cost of the kitchen island. Building and installing an island requires more materials and labor.

Materials

“Premium materials like marble or exotic woods can add significantly to costs,” says Berman.

Quartz tiles cost $53 to $149 per square foot. Sintered stone, a synthetic mineral material, is another premium counter cannon that costs in the range of quartz.

Devices or Services

Adding appliances or services like a built-in microwave, wine fridge, sink or cooking drives the cost of the island.

Utilities

Any appliances or services you add to your kitchen island require utilities installed by licensed electricians or plumbers.

Design

“Fully custom islands tailored to unique spaces or aesthetic preferences tend to cost more than prefabricated options,” says Berman.

DIY vs. Pro Kitchen Island

You can build your own kitchen island for $750 to $1,500. One of the 30-inch base cabinets and two 24-inch base cabinets are $450 to $500. Which forms the core of the kitchen island.

Most bits need to be fabricated and installed by a professional. Butcher Block Countertop is a diy-friendly Countertop option that is well suited for kitchen islands.

How to save money on the kitchen island

To save on kitchen island costs, Johnson advises focusing on island size, countertop materials and base materials.

Reduce its size

You may not need as much space for a kitchen island. Remember: Island Surcharges Existing counter space.

“A practical island can be created with two 24- to 30-inch base cabinets, offering 48 to 60 inches of surface area,” says Johnson.

Use the calculation counter cannon

Laminate flooring is less expensive than quartz, at about $14 to $38 per square foot.

Solid surfaces like Corian, Avonite, or Staron are good mid-range choices, with costs falling between the lower end of laminate and the higher end of quartz or granite.

Choose basic wardrobes

Kitchen islands essentially consist of base cabinets covered in counter-tone, says Johnson.

“To keep costs manageable, opt for off-the-shelf base cabinets, which are affordable but offer less customization options.”

Advice from a kitchen designer

Kitchen designers and consultants recommend doing (or not doing) these things when designing and installing a kitchen island:

Design with a mind in motion

“The flow of the kitchen is the most important thing,” says Newcomb. If the island will help you cook with ease and fit your look, then it’s a great solution. Always look at the kitchen as a whole and how you will use it.

Turn on the lights

Add decorative lighting above the island, says Neal. Since the kitchen island is a gathering place, you want to give the area the right kind of lighting.

Add small features

If you can’t or don’t want to add expensive features, install small, inexpensive features that make your life easier.

Adding electrical receptacles (which may be required by local code anyway), storage, shelving, USB plugs, and trash and recycling bins.

FAQ

  • Kitchen islands usually add value to a home. As long as the island is appropriate for the size of the kitchen, adding more space and cabinets, it is generally a positive when determining a home’s value.

  • A 10×10 kitchen remodel should cost around $24,000. A 10-foot by 10-foot kitchen is standard in many homes, so it’s used as a general guide for kitchen measurements. A 10×10 kitchen remodel can cost as little as $15,000. Or a 10×10 kitchen remodel can cost $50,000 or more.

When can babies drink water?

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on When can babies drink water?

After drinking so much water during pregnancy (the thirst is real), you might be surprised to learn that your new baby shouldn’t be drinking plain water at all. In fact, babies get all the hydration they need through breast milk or nutrient-rich formula.

Read on to find out why young babies should not drink water, when to start giving water and the symptoms of dehydration in babies.

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Key Takeaways

  • Babies do not need plain water until they are at least 6 months old.
  • Water is not a substitute for breast milk or formula, which contains vital nutrients.
  • When babies start eating solid foods (around 6 months of age), they can have up to 8 ounces of water a day.

When can babies start drinking water?

In general, your baby does not need to drink water until he is 6 months old. Until then, they get all the hydration they need from breast milk or formula, even in hot weather. Once your baby is about 6 months old, it’s okay to give her sips of water when she’s thirsty.

You may have heard of colic water, a popular herbal remedy for colic and other gastrointestinal problems in babies. Although there is no medical evidence to suggest that stagnant water works, many parents swear by it. If you’re thinking about trying it, talk to your pediatrician first.

Why can’t babies drink water?

Your baby’s kidneys, the key organs for filtering blood and processing water in the body, are not yet fully mature. Drinking plain water could disrupt their electrolyte balance, leading to serious health consequences such as seizures.

Additionally, drinking plain water can fill their bellies, making them too full to get enough breast milk or formula. Never give your baby water as a substitute for breast milk or formula, which are full of nutrients your baby needs.

We started giving a (very small) open cup of water with meals at 6 months. Most of it took a long time to spill, but I didn’t want to practice with an open cup of my precious expressed breast milk!

– Member of the BabyCenter merrygoose community

How much water should a baby drink?

Once your baby starts solids around 6 months of age, it’s also okay to start offering sips of water from an open cup or straw as practice, but I still wouldn’t exceed 8 ounces in a day.

“We started giving a (very small) open cup of water with meals at 6 months,” he says BabyCenter Community member of merrygoose. “Most of it took a long time to spill, but I didn’t want to practice with an open cup of my precious expressed breast milk!”

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Focus on giving fluids in the form of breast milk or formula. Your baby will naturally get water from eating fruits and vegetables. You don’t have to worry about drinking a certain amount of water every day.

After your baby’s first birthday, you can give her a cup of water to drink with meals and whenever she’s thirsty.

Experts recommend giving toddlers at least 32 ounces of fluid a day, but they need a maximum of 16 to 20 ounces of cow’s milk (more can contribute to anemia or constipation). The rest can come from plain water and the fruits and vegetables you give them, as well as breast milk if your child is still breastfeeding.

Can babies have tap water?

In general, the best water to give your baby is tap water. The US Environmental Protection Agency regulates tap water quality and sets legal limits for more than 90 contaminants. Although water contamination does occur, the water that comes out of your faucet is usually the safest option.

“(Using tap water or bottled water) depends on where you live,” he says BabyCenter Community member Stephibxo. “My pediatrician told me that because of where I lived, tap water in my specific area would be beneficial for installation, but I could also use filtered/bottled water.”

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If you are concerned about the quality of your tap water, you can test it and use a suitable water filter if necessary. Contaminants to watch out for include microorganisms and bacteria (like E. coli and Giardia), organic chemicals from agricultural pesticides (like glyphosate), nitrates and nitrites from agricultural fertilizers, disinfection byproducts like chloroform, and industrial chemicals like benzene. The material your water pipes are made from can also contaminate your tap water – it’s especially important to make sure your water is lead-free if you have lead or brass pipes.

In parts of the United States, tap water is treated with fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay. But if your baby consumes a lot of fluoride before her teeth erupt, she may develop fluorosis, which looks like pale white lines or streaks on the teeth. You cannot develop fluorosis after the teeth break through the gums.

Fluorosis does not affect the health of the teeth, and it is possible that only a dentist would notice it. To prevent this, talk to your child’s doctor to determine if your baby may be getting too much fluoride.

To learn more about the quality of your tap water, you can check the annual for your area Consumer Confidence Report. To test your home’s tap water, your local water agency or health service can do this, or you can have it tested by a laboratory with a state certificate.

Bottled water is fine too—it’s regulated by the Food and Drug Administration—but since tap water is usually safe for your baby, it’s not necessary to give her bottled water.

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Learn more about the safety of tap and bottled water, and whether babies can have sparkling water.

What you need to know about water poisoning in babies

In very rare cases, a baby who drinks too much water can develop water intoxication, which can cause seizures, coma and brain damage. Water poisoning occurs when too much water dilutes the body’s sodium concentration, disrupting the body’s electrolyte balance and causing swelling of internal tissues and organs.

Liz Donner MD, a pediatric hospitalist and BabyCenter advisory board member, notes that symptoms can include confusion, blurred vision, vomiting, altered breathing, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

Is it ok to dilute the formula with water?

Do not try to stretch the formula by diluting it with water – follow the directions on the package carefully for making the formula and use the recommended amount of water. If you add too much water to your baby’s formula, your baby could develop a serious electrolyte imbalance and may not get all the nutrients he needs.

What to do if your baby is dehydrated

If your baby doesn’t drink enough fluids or loses more of the fluids he takes in (because he’s sick and vomits or has diarrhea, for example), he may become dehydrated. Symptoms that your baby is dehydrated include:

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  • They play less than usual
  • Wets less often (for babies, this may mean fewer than four wet diapers a day)
  • Their mouths are dry or sticky
  • If your baby still has a soft spot on his head, he may become sunken

If your baby shows signs of dehydration, call your doctor. They may want to see your baby to check them. If your baby is under 3 months old, they will probably recommend that you give your baby more breast milk or formula than usual. If your baby is older than 3 months, he may recommend giving him some water or an electrolyte drink like Pedialyte.

Dudley Do-Right Film Review | Common Sense Media

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on Dudley Do-Right Film Review | Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media Review

Brian Costello

By Brian Costello

,
based on child development research. How do we rate?


age 10+







The 90s live-action remake of the 60s cartoon has a raunchy sense of humor.

There are no parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What is the story?

Dudley Do-Right (Brendan Fraser) is an inept but pure-hearted Canadian Mountie who protects the good citizens of Semi-Happy Valley. But all that changes when the evil Snidley Whiplash (Alfred Molina) comes to town with his minions, distracts Do-Right with fear of vampires, and hatches a plan to buy all of Semi-Happy Valley’s property and rename it Whiplash City. As it happens, the beautiful Nell Fenwick (Sarah Jessica Parker) returns from a successful career as an ambassador, and Dudley and Snidley compete to win her heart. As Dudley makes a messy exit from the Canadian Mounties, Snidley has created a fake gold rush to swindle even more money from the visitors and residents of Whiplash City, even though everyone around him considers him “good”. Dudley meets a drunken prospector (Eric Idle) who convinces Dudley that his best move in this scenario is to act “bad”, and by acting “bad”, Dudley begins to find a way to, once again, outsmart Snidley, save the good. the people of Semi-Happy Valley, and earn the love of Nell.

Is it good?

Our review:







Parents say :
Not rated yet

Like almost all films made in the late 1990s that tried to remake classic sixties cartoons, the problem with DUDLEY DO-RIGHT is that it’s not as good as the original. While an effort is made to evoke the witty puns and slapstick quips of the original, the central problem boils down to the title character. While all the other actors play their cartoonish personas, I wish Brendan Fraser had played Dudley a little more, a little more open, a little more…Canadian.

Still, as an introduction to the legendary Jay Ward cartoon series, it’s not bad. There are a lot of comedic tropes and chestnuts freely recycled from the original, even if some of the more contemporary attempts at humor seem nonsensical, if not obnoxious.

Talk to your kids about…

  • Families can discuss remakes of classic cartoons into contemporary films. What would be the challenges in turning an animated cartoon series into a feature film?

  • Where does the humor seem to be aimed more at children and where at adults?

  • In what way is the violence in the film more “cartoonish”, as opposed to violence that is more realistic?

Did we miss something about diversity?

Research shows a connection between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews, which will be published continuously. You can help us help children

22 TV stand ideas that won’t ruin the rest of your decor

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on 22 TV stand ideas that won’t ruin the rest of your decor

The right TV stand is practical and stylish enough to blend in with your decor. You can use anything from a console table to a vintage dresser, credenza or sideboard to help your TV blend into your decor instead of turning into an eyesore.

Check out these TV stand ideas to help you decorate around your TV so it doesn’t dominate your living room, family room, or dedicated TV room when it’s not in use.

Film review of the home team | Common Sense Media

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on Film review of the home team | Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media Review

Jennifer Green

By Jennifer Green

,
based on child development research. How do we rate?


age 10+







Feel-good comedy has nice messages, also language, drinking.


age 8+







Based on 1 parent review

Cristykadish

What is the story?

Professional football coach Sean Payton (Kevin James) is placed on administrative leave while under investigation by the NFL in HOME TEAM. He decides to go home to small town Texas to visit his estranged son Connor (Tait Blum). Initially planning to stay only a few days, Sean takes an interest in Connor’s ragtag high school football team, the Warriors. Their coach, Troy (Taylor Lautner), asks Sean to help them. Connor isn’t too sure about his father’s sudden presence in his life, but his mom, Beth (Jackie Sandler), and stepdad, Jamie (Rob Schneider), welcome Sean to the group, and the kids on the team are excited when they finally start winning in games. What is uncertain is what will happen if and when Sean is allowed to return to his professional job in New Orleans, and whether it will happen before or after the Warriors’ season ends.

Is it good?

Popular actors, a cast of likeable young men, and a wholesome tone make this feel-good comedy a natural crowd pleaser. Home team it starts with a plausible (but ultimately glossed over) true story and mixes in a bunch of silly secondary characters and situations. The production also looks like a family affair, with siblings, spouses and other relatives of producer Adam Sandler and star James in various roles. There is definitely some humor in this film that borders on the tasteless, Sandler style, including constant mocking of a character who is an alcoholic and torrential bouts of projectile vomiting.

But other parts are very funny, like Schneider’s stereotypical hippie stepfather (who brings his special tea to games and “makes his own lavender soap”), the inept hotel manager, and the tween team’s gleeful celebration at the hotel pool (“this is what it feels like to win” ). As a down-on-his-luck Super Bowl coach, James exudes the confidence of a successful man who knows his game. Lautner is his ideal counterpart, allowing him to take center stage as both actor and character. The boys on the team are portrayed as adorably innocent high schoolers who keep a positive attitude in the face of utter defeat and maintain their values ​​even when they start winning. There’s an unforgettably cute scene where they all go as wing players to sing backup when one of their teammates serenades a girl he likes.

Talk to your kids about…

  • Families can talk about why Connor is so unwelcoming to his dad at first Home team. Why would he be uncomfortable with his dad coaching his team?

  • How do the guys on the Warriors team show teamwork on and off the court? Why is this such an important character strength?

  • What lessons did Sean Payton learn from his son and other boys during his time away from the Saints?

  • The film is based on a true story. Where could you go to find out more about Payton and the bounty program controversy that got him suspended? Do you think the movie does a good job of explaining the controversy and Payton’s role in it? Why or why not?

Did we miss something about diversity?

Research shows a link between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews that will be published on an ongoing basis. You can help us help children

6 gardening trends that will be in full bloom in 2025, say gardeners

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on 6 gardening trends that will be in full bloom in 2025, say gardeners

If you live in a cold climate, it may be difficult for you to think about nature right now. But as anyone with a garden knows, these pre-spring months are actually a great time to start considering your outdoor plans. In fact, depending on where you live, it might even be time to get some bulbs in the ground.

Whether you’re working with a garden that’s already been designed or want to make some changes in the coming year, it can be helpful to know what’s currently trending in the gardening world.

With that in mind, we spoke to a few top garden professionals to find out what garden trends they expect to see in 2025.

Meet the expert

  • Janet Loughrey of Garden Design is a garden photographer, writer and master gardener.
  • Laura Janney is an avid gardener and founder of The Inspired Garden.
  • Katie Dubow is president of Garden Media Group and guest gardener on QVC for Cottage Farms.

4 quick ways to relieve constipation in babies

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on 4 quick ways to relieve constipation in babies

Worried that your baby might be constipated? First consider what their normal pattern is. How often they have bowel movements depends on factors such as what they eat and drink, how active they are, and how quickly they digest food.

Every baby is different; they may poop after each feed, or they may wait a day or more in between.

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Interesting fact: exclusively breastfed babies are rarely constipated. Breast milk naturally balances fats and proteins, so it produces stools that are almost always soft – even if baby hasn’t pooped in a few days.

If your baby is breastfed, there is no “normal” number or schedule – just what is typical for your baby. It is not unheard of for breastfed babies to have one bowel movement per week. If your baby drinks formula or eats solid food, he will probably poop at least once a day.

Key Takeaways

  • If your baby has less frequent bowel movements and seems to be straining to pass hard poop, she is constipated.
  • Common causes of constipation in babies include transitioning to solid foods, dehydration, certain types of formula, and weaning.
  • To relieve constipation at home, try pumping your baby’s legs or massaging his belly.

How do I know if my baby is constipated?

Constipation is when your baby has trouble having a bowel movement. Signs of constipation include:

  • Less frequent bowel movements than usual, especially if your baby hasn’t had one in three or more days and is clearly uncomfortable when she does
  • Hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass – no matter how often
  • Squeezing for more than 10 minutes without pooping
  • Being more irritable than usual or spitting up more than usual

Note: It is common for babies to strain during bowel movements. If your baby is straining and producing soft stools, it is not constipated.

“When a baby is first learning to poop, it may seem like they’re really struggling—grunting, crying, and getting red in the face before having a bowel movement,” says Liz Donner, MD, a pediatric hospitalist and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory. Board. “This is normal! It happens because pooping requires a coordinated act of relaxing the pelvic floor while flexing the abdominal muscles. As long as soft, mushy stools are passing, there’s no need to worry. This should resolve by about 6 months of age.”

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Why is my baby constipated?

Possible causes of constipation include:

Solid food. Your baby may become slightly constipated from eating more solid foods, especially if the foods are low in fiber. (Skip traditional low-fiber first foods like rice cereal in favor of higher-fiber options like oatmeal.)

The formula. The protein component in formula can cause constipation in some babies. If you are concerned, ask your baby’s healthcare provider about switching brands.

“I had (this) problem with my daughter and the doctor said she should have a formula with hydrolysed milk,” he says BabyCenter Community member Mrsdavidwruck. “It worked right away.”

Cow’s milk. “A baby’s digestive tract is not ready for cow’s milk until the first year of life,” says Dr. Donner. “Even then, you should limit them to no more than 16 to 24 ounces per day, as higher amounts can lead to iron deficiency and severe constipation.”

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Iron drops. While the amount of iron in formula is too low to cause constipation, the higher amount in iron drops can.

Dehydration. If your baby becomes dehydrated, his system will respond by absorbing more fluid from everything he eats or drinks—as well as from waste in his intestines. The result can be hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass.

Weaning. Reducing breast milk in your baby’s diet can sometimes lead to dehydration, which contributes to constipation.

Illness or medical condition. Although uncommon, constipation can be caused by an underlying medical condition such as hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis or botulism, and certain food allergies and metabolic disorders. If there doesn’t seem to be a reason why your baby is having hard, painful stools, talk to your baby’s pediatrician to rule out these conditions.

How to quickly relieve your baby’s constipation

Here are some home remedies you can try to relieve your baby’s constipation:

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  • Help them get some exercise. If your baby is crawling, encourage her to do a few laps. If they aren’t crawling yet, try pumping up their legs. While lying on their back, gently move their legs forward in a circular motion as if they were pedaling a bicycle.
  • Massage the baby’s belly. For detailed instructions, watch this video on baby massage to help with digestion.
  • If you’re feeding your baby formula, ask their doctor about switching to a different brand or type.
  • If your baby is old enough to eat a variety of solid foods, reduce constipation with foods like rice and bananas. Try fiber-rich foods such as pureed prunes, peas, apricots or pears, or whole grains to ease bowel movements. dr. Donner notes that if you’re making baby food at home, make sure to blend the skin of the fruit into the puree because of its fiber content.

If your baby has such hard, dry stools that you see a little blood or even slight tears (cracks) in the delicate skin near the opening of her anus, you can apply an ointment such as petroleum jelly or non-vaseline to the area to help it heal. Keep the area as clean and dry as possible, and mention the cracks to your baby’s doctor.

What about juice or water?

While it is American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a baby under 12 months should not be given any juice, a little prune, apple or pear juice with normal feeding is fine to relieve constipation. This fruit contains sorbitol, a sweetener that acts as a laxative. Just make sure the juice is 100% without added sugar.

“Try pear juice, sweet potatoes, and baby oatmeal!” he says BabyCenter Community member RyleeA1995. “My baby had so much constipation (which I was told is normal as their digestive system matures) but he was a pretty miserable guy and the stuff seemed to help.”

If your baby is older than 4 months, you can offer 2 to 4 ounces of juice per day, but not for more than a week or two. If your baby is between 1 and 4 months old, talk to your pediatrician before giving your baby juice.

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You can give your baby water when he starts eating solid food. For babies between 6 and 12 months, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends offering 4 to 6 ounces of water daily.

What about laxatives?

Never give your baby an over-the-counter laxative without first checking with your doctor. Your pediatrician may recommend one of these types of laxatives:

  • Stool softeners you draw water into the stool, making it more comfortable for the baby to poop.
  • Glycerin suppositories relieve severe constipation by stimulating your baby’s rectum. Occasional use of suppositories is fine, but don’t do it regularly as your baby may end up relying on them to have a bowel movement.

When should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor if your baby is under 4 months old and:

  • He has a very hard stool
  • He has not had a bowel movement within 24 hours of the time they usually leave

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Call the doctor if your baby gets any of the following:

  • He doesn’t eat
  • She’s losing weight
  • He vomits
  • He has a swollen stomach
  • They have blood in their stool
  • He strains really hard without a soft stool
  • Basic treatments, such as adjusting their diet, do not help

Learn more about baby poop:

Carrie Underwood: Reflection Movie Review

by James K. Kunkeltech for kidsLeave a Comment on Carrie Underwood: Reflection Movie Review

Common Sense Media Review

Jennifer Green

By Jennifer Green

,
based on child development research. How do we rate?


age 10+







The concert doc includes lyrics about alcohol, mature themes.

There are no parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What is the story?

For three years, country music artist Carrie Underwood performed a residency in Las Vegas called Reflection, and that show has now been made into a feature film called CARRIE UNDERWOOD: REFLECTION. This 98-minute edition captures one of the artist’s concerts at Resorts World Las Vegas and features some of her biggest hits.

Is it good?

Our review:







Parents say :
Not rated yet

children say:
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If you’re a fan of Underwood, this concert film is for you, especially if you haven’t made it to her Vegas show yet. Carrie Underwood: Reflection is a recording of that show, with outfit changes, choreographed dances involving extras, fire and water, reminiscent of pop riffs, and, of course, lots of Underwood. Fans might want insight via interviews or behind-the-scenes footage, but that’s not on offer here.

Talk to your kids about…

  • Families can talk about the idea of ​​a concert film, like Carrie Underwood: Reflection. Do you enjoy watching concerts? Do you feel like you’re watching it live? Do you feel this movie is missing something, and if so, what?

  • How would you describe the women and men that Underwood sings about? What characteristics do the women in her poems share? What about men?

  • What is the picture of American life that Underwood paints with his lyrics? Can you think of an example? Who might feel left out of that portrait?

  • What other stars do you know who became famous as contestants American Idol like Underwood, who will become a judge now?

Did we miss something about diversity?

Research shows a link between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews that will be published on an ongoing basis. You can help us help children