articles
Topic: Questions & Answsers
August 2009
Q. When is it safe for my child to chew gum?
Dr. Zibners' Answer:
Curtis in Bulgaria agrees with me that gum chomping is a disgusting habit but his wife is a chronic chewer so he’s been outvoted. However, I can say that most people believe that no child should have gum until she is old enough to understand that it should never be swallowed. That usually means 5 years or older. If swallowed in large quantities gum can cause a blockage of the intestines. Kids can also choke on a piece of gum. And finally, gum can also cause cavities so if you are a “gum family” make sure it’s sugarfree please.
Q. Will I seriously damage my 3 month old if I let her taste my chocolate frosty?
Dr. Zibners' Answer:
The questions I get from my sister are probably the ones you are all thinking but too embarrassed to ask. We all know that a chocolate frosty isn’t really baby food. And the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, followed by the introduction of solid foods (think banana not frosty) with a continuation of breastfeeding until 1 year of age or as long as is mutually desired. Therefore I cannot in good conscience condone giving a 12 week old a bit of frosty no matter how badly she wants it. But I will say that her curiosity is a good sign that she’s interested in the world around her and will probably welcome the excitement of “real” food in a few months. And no, Amanda, if you accidentally let her lick your finger, she’s not ruined.
July 2009
Q. What if my kid eats dog food?
Dr. Zibners' Answer:
Thanks Kevin from MD for a favorite. While not really something to encourage, dog food, cat food and fish food are pretty harmless if a kid takes a bite. The worst that will happen is probably that you’ll be completely grossed out. Of course, it is probably best if you move keep pet food out of reach, only put enough food in the dish for one serving at a time and try to keep your kid occupied until the dog has finished his supper.
Q. Why does my baby hate tummy time?
Dr. Zibners' Answer:
Thanks Kay from PA for a good one. Babies should always be sleeping on their backs to help prevent SIDS. Allowing your peanut awake time lying on her tummy not only can prevent a misshapen skull but gives her a chance to strengthen her neck and trunk muscles and work on her fine and gross motor skills. If your kid doesn’t seem happy, it’s probably because she’s frustrated at not being able to see the world around her. So don’t just plop her on the floor. Instead, sing, talk or play with her. Try putting a mirror on the floor or an entertaining toy. Yes, Tummy Time important but it doesn’t have to make her miserable.
Q. My kid does everything a million times over and seems to remain fascinated, should I be worried?
Dr. Zibners' Answer:
Thanks Amy in MD for this one. No, you should not immediately assume there is anything wrong with your baby because he likes to bang things together over and over or enjoys twirling in the curtains for hours. Actually, this is entirely normal. Little kids learn by repetition, which is why they want to hear the same song over and over or watch Willy Wonka for the 1000th time. If you are concerned about your little one but remember that an otherwise growing and developing kid who likes to bang the same drum for an hour is probably perfectly fine.
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