Teething Little Munchkin!

People keep asking me what they should buy Jimmy for Christmas and I am struggling what to say? The thing is, when you’re going to be 8 months old and you have an older sister who was 8 months old before you, all the things you might like are kind of already going to be there… Shape sorters, baby walkers, books, toys galore… I know its nice to have new things but really it would just be a waste to buy the same things again especially when he doesn’t even really know and certainly won’t notice… I keep saying clothes because it seems the most sensible option don’t you think?

There is however, one area where I think he does need his own brand new things and that’s teething toys! He’s got 4 teeth through now and the poor little thing has struggled with them and still is. I try to make sure he has something to chew on all of the time and I really like the ones that go in the fridge because he likes the cooling on his gums. The reason he needs his own new ones is because Florence chewed hers to bits plus I also have no idea where they all went? They just disappeared like all of Jimmy’s dummies seem to now… I think there might be a naughty fairy in our house with a lot of teething toys and a lot of old dummies! So, we’ve been through a fair few in our house and know which ones we like and which ones we definitely don’t! I’ve been keen on a few but Munchkin is a brand I always recommend because we’ve used many products in the past and always thought them to be of excellent quality. I particularly like their food related items and bath toys so I think using their teething toys is a really good idea too and it just so happens that they’ve brought out a new range that sound super! From the Fun Ice ™ Chewy Teethers that can be refrigerated, a teething blanket and a Twisty™ Teether Ball all items have been carefully created to help with this emotional milestone – and it is a milestone, I rang everyone to tell them about Jimmy’s first tooth!

The Munchkin ‘Fun Ice Chewy Teether’.

Munchkin has also come up with some ‘Teething Made Easy’ tips which are really useful!

What is teething and why is it so painful?

The teething process actually starts when baby is in the womb and it is where the teeth start to push and break through the gums according to the dentists in shrewsbury ma. The first set of teeth are often called milk or delicious teeth. Most babies start to teethe at about six months old and this can vary as some babies are in fact born with teeth whereas others might not have started the process until they are a year old.

So what are the tell-tale signs for teething?

Your baby could sprout their first tooth easily and painlessly but for others it can be a long and painful task. You will often see a change in behavior, they may become irritable and unsettled and not sleep very well. Your baby may also dribble more than usual, have red flushed cheeks or face and red and swollen gums and you will often notice a change in their nappies as it can cause a mild case of diarrhea in some babies.  If your baby develops a high temperature before the arrival of a tooth it is best to treat this as a separate matter and if you are concerned contact your Doctor.

What can you do when you find yourself caught up in the terrible teething troubles?

It’s crucial to be prepared in advance so that you know how best to alleviate the pain for your little one.  Stock up on the products and remedies of your choice, and look out for tell tale signs that a new tooth is on its way such as irritability, restless sleep or increased dribbling. Most babies love to chew something when teething so products specially designed to relieve pressure and pain are a great starting point, teething rings that can cool and soothe sore gums are brilliant for this as they provide a way of releasing the pressure building up from the emerging tooth and can be stored in the fridge for extra relief.

What can you give your baby?

Food and drink that is cool can also comfort your baby. Chilled water or if your baby is old enough, cold yoghurt are simple ways of easing pain. Other forms of pain relief come in the form of teething gels and medicines but be sure to consult your GP or local pharmacist if you are unsure of what to give your baby as it is common for teething to be mistaken for things like ear infections.

Are there any products to be wary of?

If you do choose to use teething products, it is extremely important to never tie these around your baby’s neck i.e. teething rings, dummies or attachable teething biscuits as these can place your baby in danger.

And remember…

This time in your baby’s life may be tough but always remember it is a very special time and by following the teething made easy tips, you’ll enjoy every second, and remember lots and lots of cuddles!

For more information on the range and for a list of stockists please see the website www.munchkin.eu.com.