Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Diaper Ointment

How it Works

This soothing diaper ointment is rich with vitamins A and E to help nourish baby’s skin, while chamomile moisturizes and soothes. Sweet almond oil and beeswax, natural barriers, seal moisture into your baby’s most sensitive skin. Phthalate- and paraben-free.

How to Use It

Cleanse your baby’s skin and pat dry before applying ointment to diapered area.

Featured Ingredient

Sweet Almond Oil — Cold pressed from the dried kernels of the almond tree, this medium-weight oil is rich in proteins and vitamin D, and is excellent for the skin and nails.

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Ingredients: Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, zinc oxide, beeswax, lavandula hybrida (lavandin) oil, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, tocopherol, lavendula angustifolia (lavender) oil, anthemis nobilis (chamomile) flower extract, calendula officinalis flower extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, canola oil, glycine soja (soybean) oil

More Reasons Not To Spank Your Children

Violence begets violence. A recent meta-analysis of various spanking studies done over the years concluded that children who were spanked, slapped, hit or on the receiving end of objects thrown at them, were more likely to engage in criminal and anti-social behaviors as adults. This included domestic violence, sexual violence and child abuse.

There was a ….”93 percent agreement among studies that spanking can lead to such problems as delinquent and anti-social behavior in childhood along with aggression, criminal and anti-social behavior and spousal or child abuse as an adult.

“There was a ….”93 percent agreement among studies that spanking can lead to such problems as delinquent and anti-social behavior in childhood along with aggression, criminal and anti-social behavior and spousal or child abuse as an adult.

The researchers suggested that children whose parents spanked, slapped, hit or threw objects at them may have a greater chance of physically or verbally coercing a sexual partner, engaging in risky sexual behavior or engaging in masochistic sex, including sexual arousal by spanking. The researchers warned, however, that this is not a one-to-one or causal relationship.”

If you are a regular to our site, then odds are you are an attachment parenting type who does not need a lecture on why to avoid spanking. If you are visiting however, you may still subscribe to the “spare the rod” mentality. Positive discipline is actually less stressful for both the parents and the children. Not only is it in keeping with the basic golden rule but it also teaches children from the beginning that violence is not an answer to your relationship problems. It does not take a leap of logic to see how a child who is physically hurt by the ones they love will grow up to equate pain with love.

A common misconception of positive discipline and attachment parenting in general is that kids can do whatever they want to with no discipline or boundaries. The opposite is in fact true. The cornerstone of effective positive discipline is fast, swift and consistent boundaries no matter what your actual technique for dealing with the situation. The child learns that there is a consequence to their action from their first tantrum or act of defiance. That consequence may be a naughty chair or time out but they will learn that something happens every time they are naughty. They learn not to be naughty without being physically assaulted by the people who are supposed to be protecting them.

For a great read, check out the Love and Logic series by Jim Fay. They are fantastic books offering real life advice and easy to follow examples that can get you started on a positive discipline path and regain control over your home even if your children are already teenagers. The books are highly recommended and they really work. Whatever you do, don’t hit your kid unless you really want to play roulette with his or her adult life.

Top 10 Reasons for Going Organic

1. Organics are Healthier 

Typically organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C enzymes and essential minerals such as calcium (63 percent higher), magnesium (118 percent higher), iron (73 percent higher) and chromium, cancer-fighting antioxidants and being 29 percent lower in mercury. Feeding the soil with organic matter instead of ammonia and other synthetic fertilizers has proven to increase nutrients in produce, with higher levels of vitamins and minerals found in organic food, according to the 2005 study, “Elevating Antioxidant levels in food through organic farming and food processing,” Organic Center State of Science Review (1.05)

2. Taste Better and Truer Flavor

Scientists now know what we eaters have known all along - organic food often tastes better. It makes sense that food taste more appetizing when raised in naturally in nature, but researchers at Washington State University just proved this as fact in lab taste trials where the organic fruits were consistently judged as sweeter. It makes sense that chemicals are not going to taste like mother nature provided. Organic produce is often lower in nitrates and higher in antioxidants than conventional food. A number of top chefs choose organic, and every year many are involved in the Soil Association’s Organic Food Awards.

3. High standards 

Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year. The standards for organic food are laid down in European, US and Canadian law. Genetically modified (GM) crops and ingredients are not allowed under organic standards as well as MSG and other provin toxins. Organic is the only de facto seal of reassurance against these and other modern, lab-produced additions to our food supply, and the only food term with built in inspections and federal regulatory teeth.

4. Build Healthy Soil

Mono-cropping and chemical fertilizer dependency has taken a toll with a loss of top soil estimated at a cost of $40 billion per year in the U.S., according to David Pimental of Cornell University. Add to this an equally disturbing loss of micro nutrients and minerals in fruits and vegetables.

5. Our Food Source Delima

There is growing concern about the high use of antibiotics on farm animals and the possible effects on human health. Soil Association standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics. Animal welfare is taken very seriously under organic standards. The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organizations such as Compassion in World Farming as well as the UK and US government.

6. Kinder to Our Earth

The UK government has said that it is better for wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays, produces less carbon dioxide - the main global warming gas - and less dangerous wastes.

7. Avoids Pesticides 

Over 400 chemical pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming and residues are often present in non-organic food. The UK government has recently found high levels of pesticide residues in baby food, spinach, dried fruit, bread, apples, celery, and chips. Chemicals kill.

8. Promote Biodiversity

Visit an organic farm and you’ll notice see a buzz of animal, bird and insect activity. These organic oases are thriving, diverse habitats. Native plants, birds and hawks return usually after the first season of organic practices; beneficial insects allow for a greater balance, and indigenous animals find these farms a safe haven. Organic farmers bring balance back into farming were all aspects of the farm building for the future crop and soil. Support Organic farms - they feed us and we want them around for a long time. According to Organic Farming Research Foundation, as of 2006 there are approximately 10,000 certified organic producers in the U.S. compared to 2500 to 3,000 tracked in 1994. People are taking charge of their own health.

9. Protect Future Generations

Reduce toxic load on humans and the planet. Before children are even born the toxic risk from pesticides has already begun. Studies show that infants are exposed to hundreds of harmful chemicals in utero. In fact, our nation is now reaping the results of four generations of exposure to agricultural and industrial chemicals, whose safety was deemed on adult tolerance levels, not on children’s. According to the National Academy of Science, “neurologic and behavioral effects may result from low-level exposure to pesticides.” Numerous studies show that pesticides can adversely affect the nervous system, increase the risk of cancer, and decrease fertility. Buying organic food promotes a less toxic environment for all living things. With only 0.5 percent of crop and pasture land in organic, according to USDA that leaves 99.5 percent of farm acres in the U.S. at risk of exposure to noxious agricultural chemicals.

10. It’s Important – Your Important 

We need to support companies that support us. Organic companies are on the cutting edge of product supply for the aware consumer and if we use our consumer power to support them they are more likely to thrive and add additional products and services to their offering. We do make a difference – every purchase says “yes I want pure products on my plate and in my cosmetic bag”.  It’s important – you’re important.

Facts and Myths About Sun Care Protection

Sun Care For Your Baby 101

 

As humans, we are naturally meant to be in the sun. That been said, babies have very sensitive skin so it is kind to protect her skin with sunscreen but also to be cautious not to allow too much exposure. It’s also ideal to choose a “physical” or “chemical-free” sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide — look for one of those ingredients on the label.

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which may cause irritation or allergic reactions because the skin absorbs the active ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sit on top of the skin, forming a barrier against the sun’s rays. There’s no evidence chemical sunscreens are dangerous or toxic, but we just don’t know enough yet about how young children react to the ingredients. Also, sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide start protecting as soon as you put them on, whereas chemical products need to be slathered on 30 minutes in advance so the skin has time to absorb them. Also make sure any sunscreen you use is labeled “PABA-free.” PABA was once widely used in sunscreens but now has been linked with skin irritation.

You may have heard you should look for a “broad-spectrum” product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Any sunscreen that contains the physical blocker zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will do this.

The sun protection factor (SPF) should be at least 15, but you generally don’t need to go above 30: Higher than that and you’re getting smaller and smaller amounts of added protection — which, in a chemical sunscreen, means a higher dose of unwanted chemicals. It’s fine to use a “children’s” sunscreen, but don’t go out of your way to buy one of these, since they’re usually no different from the adult versions.

Erythema Toxicum

Babies have the most amazing skin. Unlike adults, the brand-new skin of a baby has not been affected by the damaging rays of the sun or environmental factors. Although the skin of a baby is soft and supple, it is not necessarily blemish-free. Babies often have rashes and blemishes that are quite common. Many of these skin conditions do not require special care and eventually correct themselves, but some do require special treatment.

Baby Sunscreens and Hats

 

Eco-Friendly Baby Tips

1. Cloth Diapers: 

It’s estimated that a baby will use somewhere between 5,000 and 6,000 disposable diapers before they are potty-trained. Cloth diapers saves trees, and really aren’t that big a hassle to use. Newer cloth diapers have snaps, removable inserts (some of which are bio-degradable fibers), and can be easily washed at home or through a diaper cleaning service. Experts argue that cotton diapers are also better for a baby’s bottom.

2. Glass Bottles for feeding:
Newer glass bottles are quite tough and resistant to average drop from countertop or highchair to floor. They are also free of potential chemicals that can leach from the plastic into your baby’s formula. For more information on toxicity in baby bottles, read this article on Environment California’s site.

3. Clothing made of natural fibers:
Clothing made from natural fibers are gentler on a baby’s sensitive skin that man-made clothing such as polyester.

4. A Natural Nursery:
When furnishing and decorating your baby’s nursery, pay particular attention non-VOC paints, natural fiber carpets and rugs, and “green” furniture.

5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
Toys, clothing, furniture, even diapers (cloth, of course) that are purchased used not only feels better on the wallet, they reduce the amount of items that will eventually end up in landfill.

6. Choose safe food packaging plastic containers:
Avoid plastic food packaged in containers with the recycle symbol that contains a 3, 6, or 7. Also avoid plastic food containers that have “PC” on them.

The Cloth Diaper Choice

Babies Go Organic

Going organic is a positive trend that we see all around us these days.  Many parents are deciding to start their little ones on organic products early. There are many companies that produce and market organic baby clothes, organic baby toys and organic baby diapers. There have even been companies that promote organic baby yoga. These products and practices would definitely make sure that everything that you would be using for your baby or child would be safe.

One area of organic products would be organic baby food. The importance of good nutrition is something that most parents want to impart on their children. But with the continued rise in the popularity of fast food chains in today’s youth, it has become more and more of a challenge for parents to impart the importance of good nutrition. Thus parents are making some adjustments, as they are now training their newborn to appreciate healthy foods by giving them organic baby food. While this may appear like a mere rage for parents, many health experts agree that it is a good foundation to have babies eat organic food.

Most of us have discovered how beneficial and nutritional healthy foods are, specially those grown organically. Organic baby foods do not have any chemicals or preservatives in them, making them healthy for babies. With the health benefits they bring to those who eat them, it is not surprising to learn the increase in people eating more organic food, and not just choose to use organic products like organic baby clothes, organic baby diapers and organic baby toys.

 

For parents who do not want to have their babies eat chemicals, organic baby foods are important. What’s more, these organic baby foods are considered to be very easy on the pockets. They are also readily available in every supermarket. This is undeniably convenient to parents who wish to give their babies with organic baby food in place of regular baby food.

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