Baby's First Haircut

Here are some tips from American Baby magazine to help your little one cope with his first haircut from a stranger.

• Let him sit on your lap while you get your hair cut first.
• Avoid using the word “cut.” Instead, say things like “Look how nicely she’s fixing Mommy’s hair.”
• Play hair styling games at home. Use a hair dryer and drape a towel around him for a cape.
• Find a salon that specializes in cutting kids’ hair. The stylists will be patient and quick.
• Schedule his appointment for after a nap or another time when he’s on his best behavior.
  

How to Help Baby Cope with Separation Anxiety

Babies as young as 6 months get anxious when they realize you’re gone. Here are some tips from American Baby magazine for leaving your baby with a sitter or at day care.

1. Practice. Play peek-a-boo to teach baby that you will come back after you leave. Then progress to leaving the room for a minute or two. Say, “Mommy will be right back.” If he gets upset, talk to him from the other room to show him that he’s safe and you’re still there.
2. Don’t leave him with a stranger. The first experience with a new babysitter should be in your presence so baby sees that you’re comfortable with him or her. Same goes for day care—visit on a day when you can stay with baby and leave together.
3. Have an exit plan. Don’t sneak out while baby isn’t looking. This just teaches him to be fearful that you could disappear at any time. Come up with a goodbye ritual (a kiss, song, etc.).
4. Let him cry it out. Your baby will pick up your cues and react accordingly—stay calm and confident, and baby will learn that you trust the person you are leaving him with.
5. Take time for a sweet reunion. Join baby in whatever activity he is engaged in. Cuddle if he needs it and comfort him if he needs
   

How Do I Introduce Solid Foods to My Baby?

American Baby magazine suggests starting with a single-grain baby cereal such as baby oatmeal, barley, or brown rice when your baby is about 6 months of age. Here’s how to introduce solids to your baby:

• Mix breast milk or formula with the cereal. At first, it should be a watery consistency. As baby gets the hang of eating, use less liquid.
• Offer the initial spoonfuls as a snack, an hour after baby has nursed or had a bottle.
• Wait 3 or 4 days before offering a new grain to make sure baby isn’t allergic.
• Introduce multigrain cereals after you’ve offered him each grain separately.