The focus of this blog is that there are very few things written in stone about parenting. But needless to say, there are certain things that are non-negotiable. If you disagree vehemently with any of the below, then you probably won't enjoy my blog-- but if you're undecided or have questions about any of the following, continue to check back!
I will expound upon all of these in future posts-- but just to give you a little flavor...
1. Vaccinations are a MUST. No ifs ands or buts. I don't feel this needs much explanation. There's a reason we don't have smallpox anymore. Healthy kids die of flu pneumonia every day each winter. The risk-benefit ratio goes astronomically disproportionately toward benefit. So please don't agonize over it. Just do it. There are very few things we have control over in our lives. But making sure your child doesn't die from a preventable and easily transmissible disease is one of them.
2. Discipline within reason. This means different things to different people. There is never an excuse for strong physical discipline when a non-physical approach is an option.
3. Call your pediatrician if you think something's not right-- and listen to them.
4. Solid foods shouldn't be introduced before 4 months of age, and preferably not until 6 months. In our age of allergies, kids deserve their best shot at not being that one guy who is allergic to peanuts in class.
The rest of the rules come from my experience working in a pediatric critical care unit. This explanation should paint the picture.
5. Car seats-- 'nuff said.
6. Helmets when kids are riding bikes.
7. No trampolines
8. No ATVs
9. Swimming pools must have fences-- and if your neighbors have pools, they should have fences as well.
10. No reptiles when there is an infant in the house (more to come on this)
11. Keep your kid warm, dry, and fed
11. Show your kid you love them.
I'm sure that I will think of more. But for now, this is all I got. Not bad, huh?
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