Welcome

This page is for those of us who are parenting babies....There is so much to learn, and so little time....after all, they aren't babies for long.
So all the more important it is for us to have fun with them, teach them, and love them...and know what to do to set a firm foundation for their well-being.
Please share with us what you want to see here on this page...we want to hear from you!

Recipe of the Month

I think this is more of a tip rather than a recipe....but for an "all natural" babyfood...
I suggest taking leftovers from the family meal, and puree them in a blender or food processor, and spoon it into icecube trays...after they freeze, place them in a freezer ziplock baggie and await crys of hunger...*LOL*
Babies should always try one food at a time, so until your baby has tried lots of different foods, and you are sure he/she is not allergic to any particular food, use one "plain" food at a time. It is always a good idea not to add salt, sugar or other seasonings to your food while cooking when you do this, as you want your child to experience the real flavor of the food.
Then, all you have to do is pick a cube or two out, and warm them via microwave...be sure to mix well after heating to ensure even temperature... and test the food for temperature before feeding to baby!

Activities To Do With Your Child...and Why

Peek-a-Boo
Playing peek-a-boo with your child teaches them that though you are gone, (out-of-sight) that you will return...and can lessen separation anxiety that some children experience.

Reading
Some parents start reading to their child while it is yet unborn. While studies have not proven this to produce "smarter" offspring, it is my personal opinion that it certainly can't hurt, and that it is never too early to begin!
Even though babies may not understand what you are saying...they DO understand that they like sitting in your lap, hearing your voice, and having special time with just you!
You will be relaxed, and baby will interpret the activity of reading as a pleasant activity. This is the foundation that will later come in handy as he/she learns to read for him/herself.

Listening and Talking
Listen and talk to your baby throughout the day...
Get to know the meanings of your baby's cries and gestures.Take your time feeding, bathing, and diapering your baby.
Sing songs, say nursery rhymes, and smile and coo back at your baby's smiles and coos.
In this way, your baby will learn that you think what he/she says and does is important, and that people take turns when talking to each other. So ...just by listening and talking to your baby, you promote the foundations of self-esteem, and respect for themselves and others.

Baby Parenting Links

If you have a Baby page with tips, stories, etc... that you would like to share, please submit the URL's to us by email and we will post them here! You could also win a graphic award for the "Parenting Page of the Month" and have your page featured here at Heartland Helpline!
Our only requirements are:
1. Your page must be in GeoCities, and ...
2. It must fit the theme of Heartland, which is Family Values.

Looking for a little fun? Play the "Baby Match Game!"