All posts by aimeeketchum

Window Cord Safety

Window blinds are very common in homes around the country.  Window blind injuries have been recorded in medical literature as early as 1945 and they continue to occur today. There are an average of 647 injuries annually from window cords, some resulting in strangulation and death. The dangers associated with window blinds are evident as […]

Safe Sleep

The American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep initiative is critical to reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths but not all parents are heeding the advice! A recent study found that: One in five (22%) mothers reported not placing their baby on his or her back to sleep. More than half of mothers (61%) reported […]

Starting Solid Food

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for the first six months. After adding solid foods around six months, continue to breast feed until at least 12 months. They also recommend checking with your pediatrician about vitamin D and iron supplements for the first year. We recognize mom’s […]

How to Handle Separation Anxiety

Some babies start to experience separation anxiety around six months when she understands the concept of object permanence and knows that you still exist even when you are not by her side. Separation anxiety typically peaks around 8-10 months. Try to resist the urge to slip out unnoticed. It is always better to take the […]

How to fully engage your baby in the book

Tips for reading to your baby: Engage him in the book by singing the words. Get on his level so you are face to face while reading. Use expression and different voices and make faces while you read. You don’t have to read the words. You can describe the pictures. Ask him questions while you […]

Pre-Crawling Exercises

The muscles and coordination for functional sitting and crawling don’t always come naturally. Most babies need a little bit of exercise to get these skills down. Try this simple activity with a physio-ball or large beach ball: Work on some trunk rotation activities to build core strength through the oblique muscles: Practice pulling those little […]

Isolated Finger Movement

STEM skills really take off as your baby’s fine motor skills continue to refine and they can use their little hands to explore. The ability to move each finger separately and bring the thumb and first two fingers together is also a huge stride in your baby’s ability to have some independence. Now she is able to manipulate […]

Incorporate Movement Into Language

While you are talking to your baby, incorporate some movement. This helps him link two senses together, makes the language and communication more engaging, and is great for the development of hearing and body awareness. We love wrist rattles and bootie rattles for cause and effect, body awareness, movement, and linking two senses together. Talk […]

Reverse Sit-Ups

Reverse sit ups are a great way to build neck and trunk strength for sitting unsupported, crawling, and walking later on. Plus your baby will think it is great fun! Start these simple exercises around six months. You will probably find this to be very difficult at six months and your baby may not be […]

Early STEM Through Play

  Play is great fun, but structured play teaches your baby about the world and it is a great way for your baby to learn some early STEM skills. Object Permanence Games: Play peek a boo Hide toys under blanket or scarves and help your baby find them Play with toys that hide such as […]

×

Looking for parenting support?

Join STEM Starts Now

Receive weekly digital guides targeted to your baby's age right when you need it.

Sign Up

Codes are no longer needed! Simply select your organization in the “Partner” drop down menu.

The price for membership is $0.00 now.

Membership expires after 5 Years.

Do you have a discount code?

Account Information

Please select the organization that you are a part of, which is providing the STEM Starts Now service.

LEAVE THIS BLANK
Already have an account? Log in here

Your Information

Baby Information

The STEM Starts Now newsletter will be sent to you based on your child's birth date. You will be able to add more children later from your account settings page.