Motherhood: Tips And More

Eczema Remedies  That “Actually” Worked
You are on a journey searching for all possible remedies for your child’s eczema. After trying all sorts of different solutions, one day, you realize there really isn't one simple answer.

Today, I want to share remedies that moms found helpful in easing their children’s eczema. While every child’s skin is different, having many options is always good.

 

“At the end of the day we went with Babo organics and loved it. Gluten free helps many.”

“A family member had it bad as a kid. She said her mother used to use regular oatmeal in a white tube sock as her ‘soap.’ She didn’t use any type of real soap when bathing. Now she used the Eucerin Intensive Repair with the red cap when she has a flare up.”

“Eliminating dairy from diet.  Probiotics & Aveeno eczema therapy balm.”

“Walmart sells a cream called Eczema cream by Triderma and it was the only thing that worked for my Daughter. Another mom recommended it. We had used everything Dr. recommended and nothing worked.”

“Liquid Dove Sensitive soap did wonders for my daughter.”

“Neem oil and Aquaphor”

“Aveeno eczema cream and Aquaphor”

“Weleda skin food. Nontoxic and effective.”

“Coconut oil”

“Bleach baths once/twice a week during flares; Cerave Baby cream and Aquaphor after bath and at wake up.”

“A little cortisone cream mixed with Cerave cream.”

“My baby has mild eczema on her legs. Not that really bad. I am just using my hand to lather her body with baby Eucerin Eczema Therapy Body Wash. I never failed to put Eucerin Eczema Body Relief Lotion and it works on her. Her skin is smooth now but I am still doing our routine. I am showering her every other day.”

“Cerave + Vaseline. If the skin breaks, hydrocortisone locally.”

“If you have an eczema outbreak, mix hydrocortisone with Aquaphor over those parts of skin 2-3x’s a day, and once it’s healed, continue to do it for 3 more days to get it under the skin. For daily treatment, Cerave everywhere 2x’s a day. Bathe with dove soap daily.”

“I don’t bathe him everyday. Always moisturize. I use Aquaphor as well.”

 “Warm bath. Dry off with a low temp hair dryer. Put ‘Sudocream Anticeptic Healing Cream’ on the affected areas. It’s amazing. Get it from amazon and I believe Walmart now has it since they bought out a big UK Supermarket they are now brining some stuff from Europe.”

 “My pedia-dermatologist prescribed Fluticasone (better than cortisone) this worked as a magic. In 2 apply I could see itching completely gone. Using from last 1.5 years on my daughter. Eczema hasn’t gone but controlled with this. Still do once a week makeup or twice if needed. But she is not scratching and living peaceful.”

“Figuring out he triggers first is best. Everyone is different. Once you figure that out you can control it better. Eczema will never go away completely so you just have to figure out and keep it controlled. I deal with it and my daughter also thankfully hers isn't too bad.”

“Aveeno Eczema Therapy Nighttime Cream. The one in the tub.”

The remedies were shared on a moms’ social group. *Always consult your physician before trying out new remedies.

5 Benefits of Teaching Kids to Give
Teaching children the value of giving to others is a crucial lesson that can shape their character and influence the world around them positively. As parents, it is essential to encourage our kids to think beyond themselves and to help those in need. Here are five benefits that children gain when they learn to give at a young age:

1. Develop Empathy and Compassion
   Studies show that children who are taught to give and volunteer have a better sense of empathy and compassion. When children give, they learn to understand the needs of others and develop a sense of responsibility towards them.

2. Build Self-Confidence
   By giving to others, children feel that they are making a positive impact on the world, which helps build their self-confidence. Kids who feel good about themselves are more likely to take on new challenges and be resilient in the face of adversity.

3. Foster Gratitude
   Teaching children to give helps them appreciate what they have and fosters gratitude. Kids who learn to be thankful for what they have and are more likely to show appreciation and kindness towards others.

4. Create Social Connections
   Giving to others helps children create social connections and develop a sense of community. Children who volunteer and give back are more likely to make friends and feel a sense of belonging.

5. Promote a Healthy Lifestyle
   Research suggests that children who give are more likely to lead a healthy lifestyle. When children give to others, they feel good about themselves, which can lead to higher self-esteem and a lower risk of depression.

At Pokka Kids, we believe in the power of giving and supporting those in need. That's why we are proud to partner with Embers International to help educate children victims of trafficking. By purchasing from Pokka Kids and using the code EMBERS at checkout, you can receive 20% off your order while helping to support this important cause. Let's teach our children to give and make a difference in the world together!



How to Help Kids with Nightmares
Nightmares can be a common occurrence in children and can negatively affect their health in the long run. However, there are strategies parents can use to help prevent them from happening. In this article, we'll share some tips to help you avoid your child having nightmares at bedtime.

1. Reduce stress by establishing a relaxing and predictable bedtime routine. A warm bath, an uplifting story, a song, and a night light can help your child unwind before bed. Reading books that address bedtime fears can also be helpful.

2. Teach your child coping strategies to relax, such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, or visualizing happy memories, fun plans, or favorite books and movies. Distraction with a positive image right after a nightmare often helps it fade. Some children find comfort in having a flashlight, dream catcher, or “monster spray” by their bedside. Making a spray bottle of water scented with vanilla extract can help your child feel empowered to banish scary dreams by spritzing it around their room before bed. Creating a sign that says, "Only good dreams allowed here," and having your child decorate it with stickers or drawings of things they enjoy and want to dream about can also be effective. Letting them rub a little skin lotion or face cream – you might call it "good dream cream" – on their tummy or forehead before bed can also be soothing.

3. Provide a nighttime partner, such as a stuffed animal that your child can comfort and help not feel scared at night or that will protect them at night. Research has shown that this strategy can lead to fewer nighttime fears and reduced parent involvement at night.

4. Correct any misconceptions your child may have about dreams. For example, they may believe that dreams are a prophecy of a future event, that by dreaming something they can cause it to occur, or that bad dreams are a punishment for something they have done. Help them understand that dreams are just thoughts and that thoughts are never dangerous.

5. Help your child rewrite the story of their bad dream. Children with intense nighttime fears tend to have strong imaginations and difficulty distinguishing fantasy from reality. Encourage your child to take control of their imagination by imagining a happy or silly ending to the nightmare. You may need to help them by suggesting ideas such as sucking up the monster with a giant vacuum or waving a lightsaber to make the monster disappear. If memories of the bad dream persist during the day, have your child draw a picture to change the story.

If you suspect that anxiety or stress is causing your child's nightmares, try talking to them about what might be bothering them during the day. If the nightmares persist or your child is extremely afraid of going to bed, bring it up with their doctor. The dreams could signal an emotional issue that needs addressing. By following these tips, you can help your child avoid nightmares and have a peaceful night's sleep.

Postpartum Depression: Coping Methods by Moms
Hey there, new mom! As someone who has experienced postpartum depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. Becoming a parent is a rollercoaster of emotions, and it's okay to feel anxious, scared, or overwhelmed.

Postpartum depression is a treatable condition, but it won't just disappear on its own. It's essential to reach out to your healthcare provider and ask for help. Please don't struggle alone, and remember that being depressed doesn't make you a bad parent.

I'd like to share some personal coping methods that moms in our community found helpful to overcome postpartum depression. These tips are meant to be used together with guidance and advice from your doctor since every mom is different.

Many moms found that long walks, journaling, reading, and joining local mom groups were helpful. Having a supportive partner or a doula during pregnancy and birth also made a significant difference. It's important to make time for yourself and let others know what you're going through so they can support you.

Some moms found medication, supplements, and seeing a therapist helpful. However, please remember that every mom's journey is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Whatever you choose to do, know that it's okay to prioritize your mental health.

Finally, I want to remind you that this too shall pass. You're not alone, and there's no shame in seeking help. So take a deep breath, and remember that you got this!

“Long walks”

“I wasn’t diagnosed or treated with my first because it was 18 years ago and never talked about so we all suffered. But after a while I saw many therapists and went on medication. After my second daughter turned 2 years old it came once again.”

“I again, sought counseling and knew what it was that time and so did my husband – so he was more understanding that time around. The first time around, not so much – we barely made it. I’m not a very active person so just talking about and learning about it helped me.”

“Journaling really helped me. Reading as well. Joining local mom groups was a godsend too, helped me see I wasn’t alone.”

“Support from family… and for me medication.. I am a doula now and I believe postpartum help and plan is needed for all new moms!”

“Plus having a doula during pregnancy and birth! “

“Walks and friends helped the first time. No meds.”

“My doula helped me prevent it the second time around by trying more of a natural approach and it worked out for me.”

“Telling my husband that I was going through depression and he stayed with me for 1 or 2 weeks. Took me to different places and took care of our baby so I get enough sleep.”

“Living in a building that had activities and amenities.”

“Play dates with other moms on a weekly basis, and speaking with a therapist. I went on meds for a few months and it helped me tremendously after my 2nd. Having a super supportive partner is also key. 👍🏻. After the birth of my 3rd, I scheduled an appointment with a therapist before I started work again; I think this really helped me manage my anxiety with 3 kids.”

“Deff making time for yourself, and letting others know what you are going through so that they may be able to help. Being a mom, brings so much change to your life.. it’s not talked about enough.”

“Making something I enjoy a priority, make sure I had help so I could escape at least a few hours a week. My therapist also really encouraged me to learn something new that would help me take my mind off the difficult things.”

“Paxil for 6 months”

“Talking with a therapist, medication and support of family and friends. Many women reached out to me that had gone through something similar and that made a big difference.”

“And know – this too shall pass.”

“Good Supplements. I recommend, trace minerals.”

“Rest & yoga. Long walks. Good luck.”

“Seeing a good therapist is huge. As well as anti depressant and someone telling me it’s okay to feel the way I feel. That I’m not alone. Also having support and someone telling me it’s okay to take the medication. There is so much stigma surrounding anti-depressants.”

“Support from family members was a great help.”

“Working out massages getting my nails done me time”

“Only medication. Sport, shopping, going out only made me feel even more tired. Also, talking about it and stopping to pretend like I’m ok.”

“Paternity time- he allowed me to just have skin to skin when I needed it and his time when I needed sleep. Skin to skin was a tremendous help. Medication and just being open about it.”

“Crazy, but I’m talking to a friend she broke it down for me. Basically, having a newborn (or two in my case) is torture. It’s seriously how they torture people in prison. Keep them up all night, cry every time you try to eat. For some reason in my mind it turned everything around. I think knowing everyone feels the same helps a lot.”

“Being constantly surrounded by families and friends who take turns to visit us to help out with the baby, cooking and just keeping us company.”




Little Antidote from Germany that Saved our Nights
Oh, let me tell you about our struggle with finding the right cream for our little one's eczema! It felt like we tried everything – Mustela, Aquaphor, Physiogel, you name it – but nothing seemed to work. It was so disheartening to see our son's skin condition persist despite all our efforts. But then, a friend from Seoul, which is like a mecca for K-beauty and skin health, suggested EUBOS baby cream. Now, I had never even heard of this German brand living in NYC, and even our pediatrician wasn't familiar with it.

So, we decided to do some online research and take a leap of faith. Getting our hands on the cream was a bit of a hassle back then, as it had to come all the way from Germany, but we were willing to wait. As any mom would do, I tested it on my skin first to make sure it was safe. Luckily, I felt really comfortable with how it made my skin feel.

Now, EUBOS didn't miraculously make our son's eczema vanish, but we noticed a significant improvement in just a few days. What made it special for our little one was that it worked quickly enough during the day to give his skin some relief. That way, he wouldn't scratch all night while trying to sleep. With other lotions and creams, we'd see some improvement during the day, but then the itching would come back at night, and it felt like we were stuck in a loop.

We've been so happy with EUBOS that we've recommended it to our friends and family who struggle with sensitive skin issues. And you know what? The feedback has been fantastic! I'd love to know if you have any cream recommendations too – please share!

(*Just a quick note – everything I shared here is purely based on our personal experience, and Pokka Kids has no affiliation whatsoever with the EUBOS brand.)



Momhood with Tifarah Monteith
How do we do it? Get the scoop from moms who make it work—from sharing crazy daily routine and that one secret weapon making them feel good. Today's guest is Tifarah Monteith. With her rocking @cutefoodforkids on Instagram, she’s a super talented busy mom for sure. However, she makes sure her days are filled with music and small little happy things!

1) Let’s start with your own quote for motherhood and raising children.

Things don't have to be perfect to be perfect! As moms, it's easy to get bogged down in feeling like we have to do all the things in order to feel like we're doing it right. I try to focus on the things that really matter to me and cross some of the things off the to-do list that matter just a little bit less. Sweeping the floor can wait... tomorrow my girls will be just a little bit older than they are right now, so we try to pack all the magic we can into today.

2) What’s the first thing you do after you wake up?
On school days, I wake up, pop some toast down, and then wake up my second-grader for school. On weekends, I usually sleep in a bit, and then scroll Instagram from bed to see what I've missed from accounts that I follow. 

3) One thing you can’t live without. (other than your family)

Music! I can't do any household task without music in the background. I have different playlists for house cleaning, gardening and yard work, driving, exercise, etc. There's music playing in our house for the better part of every day. 

4) Next vacation spot?
I think my next vacation will likely be to the Yukon this summer to visit my sister in Whitehorse. While I’m there, I hope to visit Alaska… it would be my 41^st state!

5) Best workout/wellness practice?
My focus the last few years has been on being active as a family... during the winter we do lots of skiing and skating, etc, and in the summer we love to kayak, swim, bike, and go for walks in our local provincial park. There is so much we can do as a family that keeps us moving and is also fun!

6) Skin care routine for your children and yourself?
I've been pretty loyal to Clinique since I was a teen, so my skincare routine is mostly items from that line. I don't generally wear make-up, so a quick wash morning and night is all it takes for me. My girls are quite independent, so they wash their own faces here or there as needed (especially after yogurt for some reason!) I'll be honest... I police the teeth-brushing, but they're on their own when it comes to faces!

7) Healthy meal you always make/buy?

I love repurposing leftover chicken. With food prices really soaring lately, I stretch a package of five chicken breasts to two full meals for our family of five (often with leftovers), just by shredding the chicken and adding it to homemade soups or a big veggie-and-rice stir fry. The kids also love quesadillas and homemade pizza, and those are usually meals I can make with two chicken breasts or less. 

8) Small stress-saving secret weapon?
Have less stuff! I find too much clutter and mess can give me feelings of anxiety, so I've been on a mission to minimize these last few years. The less stuff we have in our house, the less time I have to spend cleaning it up, which frees up time to do more fun activities with the family. I find it very freeing to focus less on "things" and more on activities and experiences. 
 
9) Your recent favorite product?

 This past week, I bought three tiny mailboxes at the Dollar Tree, and we set them in the kitchen windowsill and play "mail." The girls and I write each other little notes throughout the day and leave them for each other to find later. It's been a huge hit, a great way to help my youngest practice letter sounds, and the best $4 I've spent in a long time!

10) What are you up to lately?

I have been busy revamping a few things with my business. I do virtual assistance, a bit of social media managing, and have been working on some exciting opportunities through my Instagram, Cute Food For Kids. My youngest starts Kindergarten in September and then it's time to take on a bit more work, so I'm taking the next six months to try a few ideas, see what works, and then decide from there what I will pursue more of this fall. 

*We are in search for inspiring moms with their parenting tips. If you want to be featured on our “Momhood”, please email us!

Nourishing Your Postpartum Journey: Essential Nutrients for Moms After Birth
Being a mom is an incredible journey filled with love, joy, and some sleepless nights. As you embark on this beautiful chapter, it's crucial to prioritize your own well-being and replenish your body with the right nutrients after giving birth. In this blog, let's dive into the important nutrients that will help you recover, regain your energy, and nourish yourself as you care for your precious little one.

Protein Power-Up:
As a mom, you need all the energy you can get. Protein is your best friend for postpartum recovery. It supports tissue repair, boosts your immune system, and helps with milk production if you're breastfeeding. Fill your plate with lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and dairy products to give your body the protein it needs to bounce back.

Iron for Supermoms:
Childbirth can deplete your iron stores, leading to postpartum fatigue. Recharge your energy levels by including iron-rich foods in your meals. Enjoy lean meats, dark leafy greens, fortified cereals, beans, lentils, and dried fruits. Combining iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources, like citrus fruits or colorful bell peppers, helps enhance iron absorption.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Mommy Brain:
Take care of your mental well-being with omega-3 fatty acids. These superheroes support brain function, reduce inflammation, and even help regulate your mood. Treat yourself to fatty fish like salmon and sardines, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts to get your daily dose of these fabulous fats.

Building Strong Bones:
Your body needs calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong, especially if you're breastfeeding. Incorporate dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens, and calcium-rich foods into your diet. Don't forget to soak up some sunshine as well, as it's a natural source of vitamin D.

Hydration Station:
Being a busy mom can make it easy to forget about drinking water. Stay hydrated by sipping on water throughout the day. It's essential for milk production, preventing dehydration, and supporting your overall health. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily and munch on hydrating fruits and veggies for an extra boost.

Fiber and Whole Grains for Digestive Harmony:
Promote healthy digestion and prevent postpartum constipation with fiber-rich foods and whole grains. Choose whole grain bread, brown rice, quinoa, oats, fruits, vegetables, and legumes to keep things moving smoothly.

Antioxidants and Vitamin C for Mommy Glow:
Nourish your body with antioxidants and vitamin C to support wound healing, strengthen your immune system, and protect your cells from damage. Savor the goodness of citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, colorful bell peppers, and leafy greens to give your body a vibrant boost.

Remember, every mom's journey is unique, so listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance. Take time to rest, ask for support when needed, and cherish these precious moments with your little one.

Mom, you're doing an incredible job! Prioritize your own well-being by nourishing your body with the essential nutrients it needs after giving birth. Embrace protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, fiber, and antioxidants. Stay hydrated, rest when you can, and reach out for support from healthcare professionals to ensure you're providing yourself with the nourishment and care you deserve during this remarkable postpartum journey.
*Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational




Sunscreens for Our Precious Ones: Mom's Guide
As we gear up for sun-soaked adventures with our little rays of sunshine, let's make sure they are protected with the best sunscreens out there! Nothing warms my heart more than seeing my kids explore the great outdoors, but as a mom, their safety is always my top priority. So, let's dive into the world of sunscreens and find the perfect ones for our precious little explorers!

1. Embrace the Power of Broad-Spectrum Protection: Picture this: a sunscreen that shields our kiddos from all the harmful UV rays, and that's exactly what "broad-spectrum" sunscreens do! With these gems, we can rest assured that our little ones are safe from both the sneaky UVA rays and the pesky UVB rays.
2. Extra Love with High SPF: Oh, the joy of knowing our little wonders are covered with high SPF love! SPF 30 or higher is the way to go, giving our kids that extra layer of protection from sunburn and those rays that mean business. It's like a warm, cozy blanket of defense for their tender skin!
3. Gentle and Caring Physical Sunscreens: Isn't it heartwarming to find sunscreens that are as gentle as a mother's touch? Physical sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide a nurturing shield without any harmful chemicals. Say goodbye to worries about skin irritations, and hello to happy faces!
4. Designed with Our Little Ones in Mind: Mom-to-mom tip: always go for sunscreens designed with our kiddos in mind. Look for labels like "baby," "toddler," or "child," knowing they are made with extra care for their delicate skin. Let's pamper them with the best, shall we?
5. Unstoppable Fun with Water-Resistant Magic: Our little adventurers love to make a splash, and that's where water-resistant and sweat-proof sunscreens come to the rescue! They keep on protecting even during water play or endless romps under the sun. Now, that's sunscreen magic!
   
   
   

Top 5 Sunscreens for Our Little Explorers (Available Online):

Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 : This gentle gem is a mom-favorite! Its mineral-based formula, enriched with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, creates a protective barrier, perfect for our little ones' delicate skin. With an impressive SPF 50, it offers strong defense against harmful UV rays. Say hello to worry-free playtime under the sun!

Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ : As parents, we want the best for our kids, and Thinkbaby delivers! This dermatologist-tested sunscreen is free from harmful chemicals, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin. With its top-notch SPF 50+ protection, it's like giving our little adventurers their own superhero shield against sunburn!

Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 : Shine bright like a diamond! This pediatrician-recommended sunscreen is a true gem. Boasting SPF 50 protection, it shields our little ones from UVB and UVA rays, helping prevent sunburn and premature aging. Enjoy sun-kissed days with this pure and gentle formula, just like a warm hug from the sun!

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Sunscreen SPF 50 : Nourishing protection at its finest! This pediatrician-recommended sunscreen is fragrance-free and specially designed for our tiny tots with sensitive skin. Its continuous protection formula ensures lasting coverage while locking in moisture like a cozy blanket on a summer breeze. Say goodbye to dryness and hello to happy, hydrated skin!

Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 : Unleash the explorer within! Badger Baby's natural and organic sunscreen is perfect for nature-loving kiddos. With an SPF 30 and infused with antioxidant-rich oils, it helps nourish and protect their delicate skin from sun and environmental stressors. Like a little adventure buddy, it keeps their skin safe and ready for all the summertime fun!

As fellow moms, let's cherish every sun-filled moment with our little adventurers, armed with the perfect sunscreens made with love and care. So, let's slather on the sun protection and let them shine like the little stars they are! Here's to a summer full of warmth, laughter, and endless memories with our precious ones. Happy sun-proofing, moms!

Fun Ideas for Traveling with Toddlers on a Plane
Traveling with toddlers can be both exciting and challenging. While the idea of exploring new destinations with your little one is thrilling, the prospect of keeping them calm and content during a plane ride can be daunting. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your child, here are some fun and creative ideas to entertain your little one:

1. Storytime with Props: Bring along a couple of your toddler's favorite storybooks and act them out using finger puppets or small toys. Get creative with different voices and make the story come to life. This interactive storytelling can be both entertaining and educational for your child.

2. Play "I Spy": "I Spy" is a classic game that can keep toddlers occupied for a while. Look around the plane or use items in your immediate surroundings as clues. For example, you can say, "I spy with my little eye something that is blue," and let your child guess what you're looking at.

3. Create an Activity Bag: Prepare a special activity bag filled with small, safe, and age-appropriate toys and games. Some ideas include building blocks, small puzzles, magnetic drawing boards, or travel-sized board games. Pull out one item at a time, and when your toddler loses interest, switch to a different toy or activity.

4. Color Wonder Books and Markers: Color Wonder books are magical for traveling. The markers only work on the special paper provided, so you don't have to worry about messes. Let your toddler unleash their creativity without the fear of stains on clothes or the tray table.

5. Virtual Field Trip: Load up a tablet or smartphone with educational videos or interactive apps that take your toddler on virtual field trips to places like a zoo, farm, or undersea world. These engaging visuals can be both entertaining and informative.

6. Snack Time Fun: Turn snack time into a fun activity. Pack some finger foods in small containers and let your toddler explore different tastes and textures. You can also create simple snacks by stringing cereal loops on a piece of yarn or playing "pretend cooking" with play dough.

7. Interactive Sticker Play: Sticker books are fantastic for keeping toddlers entertained. Opt for reusable stickers or sticker scenes, allowing your child to create different scenes over and over again.

8. Play Music and Dance: Bring along some of your toddler's favorite songs and let them dance in the aisle (when it's safe to do so) or in their seat. Music can uplift their spirits and keep them engaged during the flight.

9. Window Gazing: Toddlers often find fascination in looking out the window during a flight. Point out clouds, birds, or landmarks when flying over cities. If it's a night flight, watch the twinkling city lights below.

10. Create a Travel Journal: Bring a small notebook and crayons or colored pencils, and let your toddler create a travel journal. Encourage them to draw pictures or scribble their experiences throughout the journey. This can be a wonderful keepsake of your adventure.

Remember to adapt these ideas to suit your child's interests and preferences. The key is to keep them engaged and excited during the flight, making it an enjoyable experience for both of you. Happy traveling!